It's not that companies are requiring more experience for the same job, or even higher educational qualifications.

Instead they are looking for core values, such as professionalism, confidence and demonstrable decision-making abilities.

So, as a candidate thinking about making a change in 2013, what do potential employers want to see from you?

Of course, you need to have the skills and experience, but what will separate you from the pack?

First, demonstrate in the interview your critical thinking ability.

Give clear examples of how you identified problems, evaluated opinions and implemented solutions.

Second, show your listening skills. Active listening is something most people don't do. When the interviewer is speaking, analyze what she is saying and ask a closely related question.

Third, be confident. Workplace 2.0 is a place where the confident will flourish.

But even more than all of that, remember who your customer is. All of us have an internal customer and she is the most important person in your commercial world. If you want to keep your current job or apply for a new one, then think about what your internal customer wants.

Think about the goals of the organization you work for. Think how your abilities align with that goal, and find out how to exceed their needs.

But we have to be realistic.

Without doubt, China still offers amazing opportunity for those with the courage to accept the challenge.

As one of my clients told me recently, China is like traveling at 300 kph. Maybe it is slowing to 280 kph, but it is still much faster than anywhere else.

Buckle up for 2013, it promises to be an amazing ride.

Jonathan Edwards is a partner at Antal International China (Shanghai)

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