Knowing Yourself is Key to Landing the Right Job
There are a multitude of factors that recruiters are looking for in their next big hire, and for job seekers, this can be overwhelming. Knowing your true self and being able to communicate who you are and what a potential employer can expect from you can make all the difference in the hiring process.
For seasoned job seekers or those with gaps in their resume, there are certainly objections to prepare for: Getting past perceptions rooted in ageism, demonstrating new-age technology and communication skills, finding employers who can and will meet your salary demands, having recent ‘wins” you can quantify, and working effectively in a multigenerational environment.
The emerging professional/recent graduate may be concerned with being short on experience. Why would a hiring manager take me on? Some of the answers are obvious—tech savvy, adaptable, willing to learn and grow within the company… And the challenge for the candidate: How do I demonstrate that I am capable of contributing the company’s bottom line and serving as a problem-solver?
The good news is that the solution for all jobseekers is basically the same. Knowing yourself is the key.
I’ve heard time and time again from hiring managers and recruiters “I don’t expect a young candidate to have tons of experience, or a seasoned candidate to be without weaknesses. What impresses me is their insight and how they can explain their response to challenges.”
There are a number of ways to achieve self-knowledge: Assessments, journaling, and talking with friends and coworkers who will provide candid feedback. By understanding and being able to articulate your strengths, weaknesses, work style and values—yes values—one can overcome most objections encountered during a recruiter phone screen or interview.
Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom. -Aristotle
As a colleague and top corporate recruiter in Chicago told me some years ago, “Don’t give me some B.S. answer about being a perfectionist when I ask you about your weaknesses. Be honest and share mistakes you’ve made. Describe poor judgment calls from your past and how you reflected, learned from, and are resolving these internal challenges.. It’s the personal insight you express and your ability to seek out solutions that tells me you’re someone who can really contribute.”
“An obstacle may be either a stepping stone or a stumbling block.” – Unknown
Another important step in demonstrating self-knowledge is to craft a one-minute story or anecdote from your work history that brings to life how you overcame a challenge. By allowing the interviewer “inside,” they can begin to visualize you in that position. A job interview is all about building confidence in the hiring manager that you are the best candidate and will meet or exceed the expectations of the job. And it’s equally important for you as a candidate to know if this role and the company will fulfill your expectations and reflect your values. An honest, personal assessment will lead you to job opportunities that are a right fit.
