What Is The Most Powerful Asset When Hunting For A New Job?
What is the worst thing about finding a new job?
To me, one of the hardest things about looking for a new job is the sifting. There are a million jobs out there for any half decent candidate these days, but how do you know what you are getting yourself in for.
The inside knowledge is that choosing the wrong culture or the wrong manager style can be disastrous for self confidence and even career prospects. But, how do you get the information you need from just a couple on interviews or a company “tour”?
I was reading this awesome Advertising Jobs blog today, and these were the questions that came to my mind. I mean, is it just dumb luck that some people seem to land in great companies, with awesome culture, and excellent leadership?
I tend to think not.
So, what is it then. As I read further, it started to dawn that perhaps it was not some magical formula.. but, precisely the kind of thing I was doing just now. Reading. Researching. Networking (yes, participating in online communities, as much as they seem like “fun”, actually can qualify as “networking”). But, most importantly seeking mentorship and coaching.
I think the larger share of today’s labor market fundamentally underestimates the value of linking in with recruitment professionals, to help them on their career path. And, almost perfectly opposite, it seems, is the general consensus of recruiters. The sentiment is almost adversarial. They are your best friend when they are head hunting you, and don’t want to know you when the deal is done.
Obviously, if this is your experience you might want to check the next agency down in the search rankings. But, this is where you should invest your energy. Rather than like all the other sheep are doing, putting their time into looking for that “dream” company. If you can uncover a recruiter that will mentor your career goals and aspirations, yours is a more powerful asset.