Is Overconfidence Keeping You from Your Dream Job?
By Kevin Brennfleck and Kay Marie Brennfleck
National Certified Career Counselors and Life Calling CoachesSM
A recent survey by Right Management reported that 7 out of 10 managers and senior professionals out of work thought they knew exactly what they needed to do to land their next job. However, after going through job search coaching and training that number dropped to only 2. Too many career changers and job hunters are overconfident about their knowledge about how to get a job. Unfortunately, they are often using strategies and marketing materials that actually delay their employment or advancement into work that fits their God-given design.
One area in which many people unknowingly sabotage their job search is in demonstrating how they can build value for an organization by "showcasing" the results they have achieved in other positions. Wendy Enelow explains this well: "As we all know, past behavior is indicative of future behavior, so if you've been successful in growing sales, slashing overhead costs, improving profit margins on specific products, capturing new clients, etc., then clearly and prominently position those achievements within your résumé and other job search communications."
In addition to highlighting what you have done in the past, you also need to be able to "prove" that you can meet a specific employer's needs right now. Research employers of interest on the Internet, identify needs they have, and strategize how to demonstrate that your skills and experience can be an asset given the challenges they are facing. Your resume, cover letter, and interview responses will stand out above those of job seekers who have not taken the time to investigate the employer's problems and think about how they can be part of the solution.
If you would like a professional assessment of your current job search or career change strategies, contact us to schedule a free consultation. We will be glad to discuss what you are currently doing to find work or make a job change, and evaluate if our services could help you to find a job more quickly that fits your skills and experience.
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