Tips for Getting Hired by a Fortune 500 Company

Most Fortune 500 companies look for certain traits in their new hires. As someone who worked for almost ten years for two Fortune 500 companies and interned for another Fortune 500 company (all of these companies also made the Fortune 100 list), I have seen firsthand what Fortune 500 companies are looking for when hiring new employees. Here are some things to keep in mind for those looking to be hired by a Fortune 500 company.

First, Fortune 500 companies can typically be very selective in hiring since there are many people who would love to be hired by these companies. Since job openings with these companies often have hundreds or thousands of job applicants, candidates will need to make sure that you set yourself apart from the other candidates. Good grades from a good university are a prerequisite for getting a job with a Fortune 500 company. Typically the Fortune 500 company are looking for a GPA above a 3.0, but applicants may need above a 3.5 to qualify for certain job opportunities.

However, good grades alone will not set someone apart from the other applicants. Fortune 500 companies are also looking for job candidates with strong experience. Whether this experience is with other employers or through summer internships, the Fortune 500 company would like for candidates to demonstrate that they can work with others. In addition, these companies want to see that job applicants can contribute a high level, with measurable results.

Fortune 500 companies are also looking for intangible qualities in their job candidates. Typically, these companies will use the interview process or standardized testing to determine if you have these important traits. One of the intangible traits that Fortune 500 companies are looking is flexibility. Since business goals often change, it is important that the job applicant be open to change, whether it is change in project goals, assignments, or locations. Along with this flexibility, Fortune 500 companies also look for those who have a wide skill set - a "jack of all trades" who can step into a variety of roles as needed. Fortune 500 companies often promote from within, so they are also looking for future leaders who are willing to get their hands dirty (i.e. complete "grunt" work) on their way up to the top.

Working for a Fortune 500 company can be a rewarding experience, both financially and personally. The tips above should help those who are hoping to be hired by a Fortune 500 company.