Or, “I’m definitely going to submit you.”
How many times have you heard these words during your job search?
I’ve heard many transitioning executives tell me they were hopeful they would be chosen for a position because the hiring manager, HR leader, recruiter (fill in the blank) told them this. However, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard it hasn’t worked out, because they are too numerous to mention.
“Leave it all on the field.”
“Twice the sweat for ½ the return.”
“Yesterday’s ‘A’ game is today’s ‘C’ game.”
These are just some of the quotes I’ve heard recently about today’s economy. By the way, these weren’t from job seekers – they were from business people that are just as challenged today in selling their products and services.
Good quotes to think of and remind us that we’re not alone, and that those that are persevering in this market are going above and beyond to stay alive. Many companies have downsized significantly, and in some cases shut down plants or entire business units. Becoming more efficient quickly was the name of the game in 2009 and now it’s still challenging and no one is ready to shout, “Mission Accomplished!”
I don’t think I’ll surprise anyone by saying that it can be very difficult to find a job today. In fact, if you’re from an industry that’s been devastated or tarnished like the mortgage sector, then it might be close to impossible to re-brand yourself. People from the real estate sector aren’t finding work in their field, and are finding it very hard to change industries after many years of success. The tech sector is doing okay, and alternative energy/green jobs seem to still be doing okay, however they want people from those fields and would rather not settle for an industry changer. Even the med device space, which is doing well today, still wants folks from their industry rather than an industry changer, especially if you’re out of work. In fact, companies are looking askance at out of work job seekers, so the microscope is on you even more.
I asked Kelsey Richards, Program Coordinator for the McDermott & Bull Executive Network, about a “burning question” that she often gets from different members of our group. With 1500 executive level members and growing, we have a diverse group that has many different career objectives, so we find it to be a relevant melting pot of job search ideas and challenges.
One question that tends to come up frequently is, “If I wanted to change industries and my resume doesn’t speak to that industry, how can I accomplish this?” I know some industries are still in a declining state, while others seem to be growing. We all want to work in growing, expanding, and challenging fields, but with no experience, how can we market ourselves to companies in those fields?
As I wrote in my recent blog, I think some candidates do not “go above and beyond” to land a job they really want. How can you do this?
First, don’t think conventionally. As I’ve said before, you need to put yourself in the mindset that you’re not interviewing for a job – you’re meeting with a client to see if you’re the right solution for a challenge or problem they’re trying to solve. No jobs anymore, only problems that need solving. Obviously this is not entirely true, however, in more cases than not today, our clients are hiring people to solve serious problems and take advantage of opportunities at their companies, rather than just filling a spot. This is definitely true at the senior executive levels.
As I’ve stated in previous posts, jobs are difficult to come by and companies are really more anxious to solve key problems keeping them from realizing their objectives, much more than they are increasing their employment ranks. With uncertainty still the emotion of the day for many companies, bringing on new staff to solve problems is a very difficult decision to make. In some companies, hiring freezes are still in force, so unless you’re interviewing for a position that was vacated or reports to a very senior exec, your dream company might not be able to hire you, even if they have a great need of your expertise.
Ever go to a networking event and meet someone that is unwavering in their attempt to make you hear everything they’ve done in their career and what they’re looking for in their next job? OK, I’m exaggerating here, a little. But it is true. We’ve all run across those people that think it’s important you know so much about them, or else you won’t be able to effectively help them. I’m sure even I’ve done it to someone before, and I really sympathize with them now.
Now for the controversial part of the post, so get those keyboards ready and start flexing your fingers. In an elevator pitch, I’m a firm believer that LESS IS MORE! Really, they don’t call it 30 seconds for nothing.
Wow, am I setting myself up for the hate mail or what? I know this post will be controversial to some, and I’m the first to say, if you don’t agree with me, it’s ok, do what you want. These are only my opinions, are not set in stone, and sometimes even I go against them if I feel compelled.
That said, I do have some thoughts on how some candidates do themselves harm with their car. I was taught about five years ago by my business coach, Vance Caesar, to walk candidates to their cars after an interview. I must admit, I am not always able to do this, but I do try, especially when interviewing someone at my office. I might say something like, “I’ll walk you out” after the interview is over, and then follow them out of the building since our suite is on the first floor. As we’re making conversation, I might say, where are you parked and they’ll point in the direction so we’ll start walking towards their car.