I’ve worked on both sides of the job search. I have recruited candidates to fill positions and I have been a candidate looking for a job. From my perspective on both sides of the interview desk, employers and candidates are more similar than different.
Let’s explore this idea a bit.
Building relationships
- Employers hire people they know or people recommended to them from someone they trust.
- Candidates make contacts. Don’t just collect business cards or contacts. Talk to people, listen, and reach out to help. Building relationships like this gets you noticed and may move you to the top of the list.
Social media is key
- Both candidates and employers should be visible in places where the other party looks
- Have lots of contacts who know you
- Contribute to social media conversation regularly to learn and maintain visibility
- Create a consistent brand or profile across many social media platforms
Contacts look ahead to future needs
- Neither candidates nor employers want to be surprised when a need smacks you in the face
- Always consider your next career step or talent need
Interview talk is (or should be) based on matching candidates to critical job requirements
- Avoid gut decisions or at least confirm your gut instinct with facts
- Know what you want or what you have to offer
Have a marketing plan
- Know what you want so you recognize it when you see it
Successfully leverage your brand
- Build on your reputation
- Consistently play on the positives to support your claims and enhance your reputation
If you understand that both sides of the table have the same objectives, you can build a plan that displays your credentials in their best light.