183. Job hunting with purpose: How to impress recruiters and employers
Apr 24, 2023
Job hunting in the corporate world can be a challenging and competitive game. Taking it seriously requires significant effort. For example, job seekers can spend countless hours searching job boards, applying without a clear strategy or narrative, and updating their resume and LinkedIn profile, only to end up feeling disheartened by the results. Every week, I am contacted by many individuals seeking private coaching after months of fruitless job searching. So I decided to address what I believe are essential tips that can impress recruiters and future employers as you navigate the recruitment and selection process. Because finding a job that you love, can make money from, and that your potential prospective employer wants is the sweet spot in your career, and it's worth talking about.
Why it's important to love what you do for work
In an ideal situation, job seekers should aim to find a sweet spot by combining their interests, skills that are marketable, and what potential employers seek. But why is it so essential to love what you do for work?
Firstly, job satisfaction is higher when you love what you do. Several studies have shown that individuals who view their work as a "calling" are more likely to report higher job satisfaction, commitment, work-related well-being, and less burnout. Motivation and engagement are higher when you enjoy your work, leading to better performance and productivity.
Working in sync with your strengths enables you to grow from good to great, which is the foundation of professional growth and building a professional reputation. When you are passionate about your work, you invest time and energy in developing your skills and knowledge, which leads to career progression and promotions.
Loving what you do also improves your mental health by reducing stress, burnout, and anxiety related to work. Collaboration and communication become more natural when you are happy and motivated at work, leading to stronger relationships with colleagues and clients, which can also help build your professional network.
The importance of financial stability in the pursuit of your career goals
In this episode, I also discussed the importance of financial stability in the pursuit of career goals. In addition to loving what you do, financial stability is also critical in pursuing your career goals. I believe that it is possible to pursue your passions without sacrificing your well-being or financial stability. Changing careers is often associated with the belief that it requires suffering and sacrifices, but there are more positive and healthy ways to make career transitions. However, it is better to strive for a more sustainable and joyful approach to career change and job hunting. One that allows for pursuing passions without sacrificing well-being or financial stability.
Job seekers need to focus on what employers want
It's important to remember that the job search process is not just about finding a job that meets your needs but also about finding someone who can do the job for the company. Therefore, job seekers need to focus on what employers want rather than just their work experience. While discussing your career background in an interview may be easier, understanding what employers seek when interviewing candidates can lead to more successful job hunting. Understanding the employer's needs and priorities can help the job seeker tailor their application to showcase only their relevant skills and qualifications that are relevant to that specific job. It can also help a job seeker connect with those reading their application or interviewing them. It shows that you have prepared for interviews and can demonstrate an understanding of the company. By emphasizing the employer's needs and bringing to the table those examples from their previous jobs that better align with that specific job, you can position yourself as a valuable asset who can contribute to the company's goals and success.
What next?
In conclusion, loving what you do for work is critical for job satisfaction, productivity, professional growth, and mental health. Pursuing a career path that aligns with your interests and skills is essential for long-term success, and financial stability should not be overlooked. Focusing on what employers want and what strengths you possess can lead to a more positive and successful job hunt.
In this episode, I address everything I wrote above in more detail and explain how you can ensure your audience - recruiters and potential employers - are in no doubt of your purpose and career goals. I hope you enjoy this episode and that it helps you pursue your passions in a positive and healthy way so that you can achieve career success without sacrificing your well-being or financial stability.
Timestamps to guide your listening:
- 06:50 - How to find your career sweet spot?
- 08:00 - Why is it important to love the work that you do?
- 08:39 - Job satisfaction
- 14:41 - Invest time and energy into developing your skills and your knowledge
- 18:29 - The importance of managing your mental health
- 21:30 - Building fruitful relationships with your colleagues and clients
- 22:30 - Work-life balance
- 22:42 - Career success
- 23:04 - The importance of financial stability in the pursuit of your career goals
- 27:57 - Job seekers need to focus on what employers want
Links mentioned in this episode:
- When the job is a calling: The role of applying one's signature strengths at work. - Harzer, C., & Ruch, W.
- Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
- Reset Your Career: an on-demand and ready-for-you workshop and action plan
- Episode 163. How to job search in 2023: An expert's view on the job market and recruitment trends with Geoff Slade
- Episode 174. Job search not going well? Here is why and how to fix it.
