When I start coaching a college grad, I hear a lot of talk
about the tough economy. I hear complaints about how impossible it is to find a
job — companies aren’t hiring. As one of
my clients said, "I had two interviews with the same company. I thought I
did a great job of selling myself. But I didn't get the job offer. If you don't
have experience you can't get hired." If your experience is similar, it
may not be because companies aren't hiring for entry-level positions.(The
company did post a job and conducted interviews.) It is more likely that you are working too
hard at selling yourself. When you are busy selling you are talking and not
listening. And if you are not listening then you can't demonstrate that you are
the solution — the right person for the job.
Selling yourself is
an outdated approach. It’s not about you. It's about meeting the employers
needs and adding value to the organization. When you start researching an
employer, reading between the lines of a job description and listening to the
interviewer you will understand what they need and how you fit. You will be
more successful in your job search.
Don't believe me? For a moment, think about yourself as a
consumer. Let's say you are looking to buy your next computer. You've done your homework. You feel well
informed. Your questions answered by the sales associates. Your needs are met. You
buy. You are not sold.
The same is true for a successful job search. As a job
seeker your focus is on the employer needs not yours. Research the company and then interview with
all your responses centered around how you can meet the employer's needs. Don't
be just another resumé or
job candidate. Be the solution to the employer's problem.
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