Employers value both general and specific characteristics in employees. General characteristics include confidence, teamwork, communication skills and reliability, as these can apply to many jobs. Teamwork is especially important as it allows for fresh ideas and improved work through collaboration. Specific skills are those essential for a particular role, such as certain qualifications, language skills or experience using software like Microsoft. For an IT technician, employers seek Microsoft experience, data analysis skills, and IT apprenticeship training. IT development managers ideally have graduate-level education, experience with tools like workflow charts, and familiarity working with IT equipment. IT teachers require excellent Microsoft skills, teaching qualifications, classroom management abilities, and familiarity with IT systems.