Not Just Tech Skills: What Really Stands Out in Data Centre Candidates
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by Tanisha Barkakaty
Data Centre Guidance
Hey there! If you’re interested in working in data centres or are already on that path, you might be wondering: What makes some candidates stand out from the crowd? As someone who’s been recruiting for data centre roles for a while, I’ve seen firsthand what hiring managers really look for — and trust me, it’s not just about technical skills.
In this post, I’m going to share what I’ve learned about the personality traits, reliability, and practical skills that make candidates shine in data centre jobs. Whether you’re applying for a technician role or aiming higher, these tips will help you get noticed.
Personality Matters More Than You Think
When I first started recruiting for data centres, I assumed technical knowledge was king. But over time, I realised personality traits often have an even bigger impact. Data centres are fast-paced, sometimes stressful environments where teamwork and attitude count a lot.
One key trait I look for is a positive attitude. Candidates who stay calm under pressure and keep a can-do mindset tend to thrive. For example, I once worked with a candidate who faced system failures during their shift but stayed calm, communicated clearly with the team, and helped fix issues efficiently. The hiring manager told me later that his attitude made a huge difference.
Attention to detail is another big one. Data centre work can involve handling sensitive equipment and following strict safety procedures. A candidate who double-checks their work and takes responsibility stands out every time. I’ve seen people lose out on roles because they gave vague answers about following protocols, so be clear and confident when you talk about this.
Reliability Is Non-Negotiable
Data centres run 24/7, so reliability is crucial. Hiring managers want people who show up on time, stick to their schedules, and can be counted on during emergencies. This is where many candidates fall short — not because they lack skills, but because they don’t consistently prove they’re dependable.
I remember a candidate who was perfect on paper — great certifications and experience — but had a history of skipping shifts. It was a red flag that hiring managers couldn’t ignore. On the flip side, I’ve seen people with modest resumes get hired quickly because their previous employers praised their punctuality and strong work ethic.
If you want to stand out, make sure you communicate your reliability clearly. Mention any examples where you handled unexpected challenges or worked extra hours when needed. These real-world stories make you memorable.
Real-World Skills That Hiring Managers Love
Of course, skills matter too. But the right skills combined with hands-on experience is what really catches a recruiter’s eye. For data centre roles, technical skills like cabling, hardware troubleshooting, and basic networking are essential. But equally important is the ability to learn and adapt on the job.
I often ask candidates to share situations where they solved a problem or learned something new quickly. Those who can talk about fixing a hardware fault or supporting a critical system under pressure show they’re ready for real-world challenges.
Also, soft skills like communication and teamwork can’t be overlooked. Data centres are collaborative environments — you won’t succeed if you can’t work well with others or explain issues clearly to your team.
Final Thoughts
If you want to work in data centres and truly stand out, focus on these three areas:
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Personality: Stay positive, show attention to detail, and be ready to handle pressure.
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Reliability: Show you’re dependable through examples of your work ethic and punctuality.
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Real-world skills: Highlight your hands-on experience and your ability to learn and communicate effectively.
From my experience as a recruiter, candidates who bring all three to the table get the best responses from hiring managers. It’s not just about what you know — it’s about how you show up and work with others.
I hope this gives you a clearer picture of what to focus on in your job hunt. If you’re looking for data centre roles in Ireland or beyond, feel free to reach out — I’d love to help you find the right fit! Alternatively, you can check out our careers page to see all our open roles and apply directly from there.
