183. Job hunting with purpose: How to impress recruiters and employers

career change job hunting Apr 24, 2023
Find your Career Sweet Spot

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:

Are you new to The Job Hunting Podcast? 

Hello, I’m Renata Bernarde, the Host of The Job Hunting Podcast. I’m also an executive coach, job hunting expert, and career strategist. I teach corporate, non-profit, and public professionals the steps and frameworks to help them find great jobs, change, and advance their careers with confidence and less stress. 

If you are 1) an ambitious professional who is keen to develop a robust career plan, 2) looking to find your next job or promotion, or 3) you want to keep a finger on the pulse of the job market so that when you are ready, and an opportunity arises, you can hit the ground running – then this podcast is for you. In addition to The Job Hunting Podcast, I have developed a range of courses and services for professionals in career or job transition. And, of course, I also coach private clients. 

So there is no excuse – I’m determined to help you! I want you to feel empowered, nail your next job, and have the career you want.

Enjoy the episode and ciao for now!

 

Renata Bernarde | Job Hunting Expert

[email protected]

www.renatabernarde.com

I cannot recommend it highly enough.

To my friends and colleagues who are currently job hunting, this podcast is for you. Renata Bernarde and her stellar line up of guests very generously share their perspective, advice, behind-the-scene secrets, tips, and anecdotes. "It's called The Job Hunting Podcast (it is what it says on the tin!) Guests include Anita Ziemer, Michelle Redfern, Mohit Bhargava. I cannot recommend it highly enough. Run. Don't Walk." - LinkedIn post shared by Amber Knight.

We listened, and we both got jobs!

"I am writing to let you know that I got a job. I found The Job Hunting Podcast because a friend of mine recommended it, and he also was successful in his job search. Your podcast tips and chats with guests helped me prepare for my job interview. My new position is a gateway to the organization and will allow me to grow as a professional. Thank you for the incredible work you do! We listened to your episodes and assimilated all the learnings." - Listener from New Zealand.

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