Employers, What type of business do you hire for? And what qualifications are you looking for?

A lot of the jobs sub-reddit's don't get too much attention, and I figured during these down economic times, anyone who is unemployed, as I am, could benefit from this advice. Questions such as.

1.What kind of Degree?

2.Alternatively to a degree, how many years of experience?

3.Have you hired someone for a job that hasn't done that type of job before?

And any other helpful hints you can think of. Much appreciated!