Interviewing is an inevitable step in every job hunt, so you need to make sure that you’re communicating the things that are going to make you valuable to your potential organization. Forbes recently published an article about the 8 values you need to make sure you’re communicating in your job interview that make you seem like a valuable prospect and we think it’s worth a read.

Forbes contributors David Sturt and Todd Nordstrom weigh in on these 8 values and communicate why they are important and why your interview panel is looking for them. Read the full blog below!

“I’ve had three unsolicited job offers in the past week,” Bridgette told us last week.

“I wasn’t expecting any of this. And, I haven’t updated my resume in nearly five years. And, I don’t know what to say in an interview. Am I basically thanking them for considering me?”

Those are great questions—especially when a company is trying to entice you to leave your current role. However, even though there’s a talent shortage, now isn’t the time to slack and assume companies will hire just anyone. Sure, they may have heard great things about you from a former coworker. They might have culled through your LinkedIn profile. And, they might already be sold on your existing resume and experience. But, they still want to know if you align on values.

When and if you respond to these recruiters or hiring managers, it’s still worth your effort to shine. Here are the top eight values we’ve found hiring managers are looking to find in new employees.

• Loyalty: It may feel a little hypocritical to claim your loyalty to one organization as you express interest in a new opportunity. And, it’s okay to express it in a cover letter or phone interview. Tell the hiring manager that you don’t want to leave your current company, but you promised yourself you’d never close yourself off from opportunity.

• Unique Contribution: Recall the aspects of your work results that only you could create. Maybe you offer value beyond the job description that very few, if any, can offer. Communicate these aspects—unique networks, special skills, work experience that may benefit the company, even if doesn’t typically fall into the job category.

• Growth Mindset: It might not be the first thing you consider when communicating with a new company, but leaders are focused on the future of the organization, and seek people who are interested in growing inside the company. Try to keep your communication less focused on your personal growth (I want to be earning xyz amount in so many years) and instead focus on your growth on how you can help the company grow.

• Self-motivation: While it’s easy to say you’re self-motivated, it’s a game changer if you can show it to a potential employer. Think about what you might be able to do for organization before they hire you. For example, if you work in social media, write a blog post. If you work in sales, make a beneficial introduction. You may never get paid for your effort, but you’re surely catch the attention of the company.

• Honesty: Don’t lie to a potential employer. Ever. If they ever find out you’ve lied about a seemingly simple detail, they’ll start to question everything about you.

• Positivity: Having sat across the table from potential hires, we’ve both been shocked by how some people believe complaining and negativity might be an attractive quality. We understand that while writing a cover letter, talking on a phone interview, or a face-to-face interview might make you nervous, it’s important to ignore those thoughts that say, “Oh, if I mess up, I’m doomed for life.” Be yourself. Use your unique voice. Be positive.

• Dependability: How do you prove to a potential employer that you’re dependable before you have a job? That’s a good question because dependability is more than just showing up on time and sticking with a company for a while. Dependability also means doing what you say you’ll do. Promise to follow up with an employer in a unique way. Be precise, and follow through with that precision.

• Team-Oriented: While a cover letter’s purpose is primarily to focus on your skills, talents, and values, hiring managers also want to know that you’re a great team player. Show this by communicating the appreciation you have for others who have helped you get to where you are today. Talk about current or former bosses and peers you’ve worked with in a positive way. Show your potential employer that you recognize strengths in others.

It’s true. Maybe in today’s job market—where companies are competing for and chasing down the best talent—you don’t have to try your best during the recruitment process. But, we like to think, in any endeavor—that you get back whatever you give. Show your values. Put your best foot forward. And, good luck.

Click the link to read David & Todd’s full blog on Forbes.com: https://bit.ly/2O3oJle