When you begin searching for a job, you need to take stock of your abilities as well as your weaknesses. Yes, it would be nice to simply focus on the things we do well. In truth, however, employers are as interested in what you can't do as they are in what you can do. If you are prepared to address both possibilities, you will be better off than your competitors.

What are some of the areas that you need to be aware of? Well, think about your last performance evaluation (or if you have not had one, imagine what prospective employers are most likely to be interested in).

Employers want employees who will do many things in addition to the specific tasks of the position for which they are hired. Are you a problem solver? Do you accept criticism well? Will you respect those in authority?

Read the checklist below and see how you rate yourself.

Can you perform the responsibilities of the job? Do you get along well with others? Are you willing to go the extra mile to see a job to its completion? How easily do you accept change? Do you make decisions after weighing all the alternatives? Are you trustworthy? Can you work well without supervision? Do you listen to/accept criticism? Can you relate well to all levels of management? Do you strive to be your best?

How well do you rate? Being able to rate yourself highly in each of those areas is not something very many people can do - at least not if they are honest with themselves.

Employers are constantly searching for people who have the drive to work hard and the integrity to do the job well. It is no small task to find an employee who is truly dedicated to doing his/her best while also getting along well with others, being proactive and conscientious. Job candidates who fit into that category will find themselves in high demand.

Are you the kind of employee that a supervisor can depend on? That's the main question that a job applicant has to answer "yes” to in order to rece

ive a job offer. If you fall short in any of the above areas, take some time to work on your weaknesses. Know what you need to address and put some effort into making the necessary changes so that employers are lining up to hire you.

Take stock of your abilities as well. Be prepared to expound on your strengths with anecdotes from previously held positions. If you can tell a story about your abilities and make them come to life, you will be remembered better than if you simply tell someone what you can do.

Look at these examples:

Interviewer: "Can you be trusted with confidential employee information?"

Response #1: "Oh, yes. Definitely."

Interviewer: "Can you be trusted with confidential employee information?"

Response #2: "Absolutely. At my last job as a Human Resources Specialist, I was responsible for maintaining the compensation spreadsheets for the executive staff."

Can you see the difference? Show the prospective employer what you are capable of.

Again, employers are constantly searching for people who have the drive to work hard and the integrity to do the job well. Be the kind of person that employers want to hire. You will both be satisfied in the long run.

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