Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Job Search - Show Some Purpose

How does your job search strategy connect with the needs of the employer?
Purpose isn't "me-only". Do you show consideration and interest in growth in your interaction? You want the job; you have needs but don't be a turn-off. Avoid focusing on unnecessary complaints and demands.
The employer is taking risks. But nobody is looking for perfection. How does your attitude reassure and send a sense of security? No matter how qualified you are job search success will be difficult if the general perception is that you have no interest in the success of others.

Perception is often more important than reality.
If you’re acting people will see right through you. Are cooperation and team embedded in your attitude? Do you recognize the validity of their requirements or do you just want a job?
There is a significant difference between a job seeker and a contributor. A contributor sees the job as an opportunity to make a difference in the lives and businesses of others while the job seekers sees the job as the main objective; s/he just wants a job and usually any job will do.
So what good do you see in the opportunity and the opportunity provider? Or are they a vehicle you simply want to exploit for the ride? Purpose is asking questions.
Simple courtesies go a long way and can reveal a lot. "Little things" can leave a big impression. Does your attitude say “I understand you”, “I respect you”, “I care about you”, "Let's WIN-WIN together"? Does your attitude speak the right language?
For example, if you haven't invested much to do research on the job and the organization, chances are they won't be too motivated to invest much in you, either.

The How of the Matter
Beyond interest, how you will meet the specific needs? While you are selling yourself what are you doing to connect with the needs of the employer? It’s great that you want to become an outstanding programmer. Keep perspective: It's not just about you, your certification and your career. It’s not about sympathy or begging for a job. The job search does not revolve around you or your needs. It is your purpose driven attitude and actions that make employers and in fact the world stop and listen to you. To matter you must do things that matter. The way you are going to contribute should not be a secret mission. Show some purpose! 
Employer's Mentality
“You achieve your goals by helping others achieve their goals.” Are you a problem solver, value provider or a job seeker? Again I ask the question: Are you looking for a job or for an opportunity to contribute? What picture do employers see when they talk to you? Have an employer’s mentality - put yourself in the shoes of the employer. The needs out there are bigger than our goals. There is always someone ready, willing, and able to meet those needs. Are you that person? You have career goals and plans. But are you the “needed one”? Recruitment is at the discretion of the employer.

Potential is not enough to take us to the promised land.
If Company A needs a Web developer it won’t employ your services because you’ve been out of work or simply because you are a Web developer. Even if you feel you deserve the job, the job is not about you. Grow up and own the opportunity. And you own the opportunity not just by showing up for the interview but by convincing the employer that you are best person to provide the e-solution required by the company. Purpose must show up boldly.
Grow beyond Yourself
GROW UP! The purpose of your skills or the job is beyond you or what you want. It’s your opportunity to affect the lives of others and even change the world. Connect with others and be genuinely interested in what they do and in helping. Please this isn't about acting. Don’t fake it simply because you want the job. There is integrity in simply being yourself. Be an authentic. Be purposeful. Your desire to contribute must be obvious and genuine. Your purpose should be beyond your own needs alone.
So what drives you? With purpose as your engine, you are in fact promising to serve well. Keep that promise and doors will open as your career blossoms.
Still searching? Show some purpose! I wish you the best.

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