Who gets hired in today's job market? What traits and characteristics do the "successful" applicants posses that gets them in the door? I've assemble five "hire me" factors--key attributes that I looked for when I interviewed prospective hires.

To identify and highlight which of these factors you have, answer these questions:

• Are you involved?
• What are your interests?
• How do you spend your time?
• Are you involved in any groups?
• What positions do you hold?
• What areas of responsibility?

• Do you have a basic plan (goals) written out for your future?
• Are you a positive person?

The answers you give to these questions provide a basic personality inventory many interviewers use in finding out about the real you. You need to be comfortable with your answers to participate fully in an interview.

The five "hire me" factors:

1. Know your Biz: Be articulate in your field of study. Do you belong to any of the associations? What's the latest news or happenings. Show a depth of knowledge.

2. The Gumby Principle: Be a changeling--today's marketplace needs people who can adapt.

3.The One Hundred dollar per hour syndrome: Do you know how people provide value? This basic concept surprisingly escapes many people. They are the ones who just don't "get it." Econ 101.

4.Sticktuitiveness: Seeing things through. Not always looking for greener pastures. Make your current pasture the greenest.

5. Character: A catch all area that means the most. Positive mental attitude. Are you approachable and sincere? Being disciplined, honest, responsible and able to demonstrate balance.