Are You Focused in Your Job Search - Hire Imaging

Are You Focused in Your Job Search - Hire Imaging People often ask me what I think to be the most important piece of the job search. They are quite surprised when “your resume” is not what comes out of my mouth. My advice to anyone wanting to land faster and smarter in a job they love is: The more you focus on what you want, the faster you’ll be hired. You may share the sentiments I hear from many clients when we begin our work together: I am open to all options. I want to leave the doors open. You might be open to all possibilities, but you need to be able to tell people what you want in precise language they understand. Pete and Greg: A Story of Focus Let’s look at Pete and Greg. Both are in sales, and both have recently lost their jobs in the food and beverage industry. They attend the same, large networking event, hosted by their alumni association. When Pete meets people, he says: “Hello. My name is Pete. I’m currently unemployed, and looking for sales work. I’ll work anywhere in the Metro area. Can you help me?” When Greg meets people, he says: “Hi. My name is Greg Jones. Why are you here today?” [Then he lets that person talk, and he really listens. Then he goes on]: I’m looking for a District Manager position in the food and beverage industry. As District Manager for Whole Foods   Market, I led district teams to generate consistent high-dollar sales, despite a sluggish economy. I was also contracted to help a large liquor distributor turn around one of its low-performing divisions. We slashed turnover 52% and recaptured nearly a million dollars in expenses. I’m looking for networking contacts like food and beverage distributors who sell to retailers. Oh, and I am licensed to perform marriage ceremonies, and also love event planning. So, if you know anyone planning a wedding with a tight budget, I can help! How can I help you today?” Both Pete and Greg want the same type of jobs. Who do you think people will be more likely to help? Yes, Greg. He’s confident and clear about his goals. He is specific in mentioning the type of work he’s done and looking for; the type of network contacts he hopes to connect with. And remember that I mentioned Greg listened first to the other person talk. His “how can I help you today” is followed by, “I do know Sean at ABC Software. I’d be happy to introduce the two of you.” Honestly, he is open to any sales job. But that’s not his priority. What he’s stated is. And he’s been laid off too, but he doesn’t mention being unemployed. That’s too much information at this point. The mention of performing marriage ceremonies and planning events is just, well, interesting. People are apt to remember him because of it. And then, his last words are “How can I help you today?” This is always the best way to end the conversation. Offering to help someone else leaves a remarkably positive impression! What we can learn from Greg about focus. I acknowledged earlier that you may be open to possibilities. The truth is that Greg will work anywhere right now, because he has a child with special needs, a mortgage, and a pregnant wife not earning income at the moment. He needs to pay his bills. Yet, he gives folks a limited view (clear and concise) of what he wants, because it will help him network and he also knows he would enjoy working in the FB industry as a District Manager. Why is articulating a clear picture to people worth it? You will move closer to your end goal, because you tell people concisely what it is. People who want to help you will be able to do so. Your dream role will not get lost in a job search that has a “whatever” theme dictating it. If you’re open to possibilities, good for you! But the most effective job search is one where you narrow and talk about your top priorities. Think of it related to other aspects of your life. Would you enroll at a university and say, “I’ll take whatever major you have for me. I’m open.” Would you go to your realtor and say, “I’m open to any house in my budgetâ€"any layout, neighborhood, any size.” Would you go to your travel agent and say, “Here’s my credit card. Send me off on an adventure. I don’t care where.” You deserve this focus. People may admire your openness and enthusiasm, but they will not know how to help you!! And here’s the best part. If you actually name what it is that you want, as specifically as possible, you will find it opens up possibilities! But it opens from a place of knowing, into “here’s more”; rather than from, “Oh, anything … but not sure what that is.” For many, focus doesn’t come magically. You may have to take some time to brainstorm and explore. But it will be one of the best time investments you’ve ever made. Knowing what you do and don’t want creates your wish list. Then you can go find it and get it! Photo: Mark Hunter