Why are you changing jobs?

25 Mar

Responding to positions on Job Boards can be frustrating and it is genuinely difficult to get traction.

Many companies use Job Boards and we have as well, but we do more than that.  It all depends on what the client is looking for in the candidate.  If they want an exceptional person then we proactively seek out that person.  The one who is not looking for a job.  The one that must be convinced to change companies.

The person who is looking for a job is more likely doing it to run away from a situation, and it might be entirely justifiable.  During the interview process, we seek to understand the motivation for changing jobs.  The majority do not talk about growth and new challenges.  There is often a hint of neediness in their approach.  These aspects do not help you get an interview, let alone the job. 

The main reason, in my view, is lack of relevant experience.  Or if they feel that their experience is appropriate it is not adequately described in their resume.  Many people do not even properly read the requirements.  This is a hit-and-hope approach that rarely works.

My advice is as follows:

• Understand what you want out of your career and start working towards that goal.
• Find ways to enjoy what you are currently doing and how you can improve.
• Find ways to move the needle in your role (doing something that represents a step change in performance)
• Develop your soft skills and help people around you (show signs of leadership)
• Determine the next step in your career and see what is available in the current company.
• Look at roles in companies that you admire and network with people in those roles you aspire to do.
• Continuously learn and be open to constructive criticism (the best people are coachable become coachable)
• Proactively approach companies you are interested in working for and apply for roles before they are needed.
• Understand these companies well and how your skills, attitude, and approach can help them be better.

Broadly, If you are just doing your job and turning up to work each day you are a C player.  If you are learning to be better, helping others, and striving to improve how the work is being done you are a B player.  The A players have a track record of moving the needle several times and can interact well with people at all levels.  They are respected by colleagues and senior staff.  They are masters of their work.  They understand the organization and its strategies and how their work fits into the company's goals. 

Now in my humble opinion, we can all aspire to be A players.  It is not about being super intelligent.  It is about curiosity, intelligence, conscientiousness and attitude which we can all manage.