Last week we listed Kent Burns’ “Top 10 Reasons Candidates Get Dinged,” let’s look more closely at the first five reasons qualified candidates fail in the job search process.
§ Poor resume development
A resume does not get you a job, it wins you the interview and thus, is key to getting the process started. A weak or non-existent value proposition or a failure to understand and market your brand sets the stage for less-than-desired results.
Executives come with accomplished records … it is how they get to be executives. Accomplishments need to be the foundation of marketing documents. Responsibilities are the same or very similar across every one of your colleagues or competitors, so selling yourself on “responsibilities” only position you as a commodity … one of so very many.
§ Energy, energy, energy
What’s your passion? How does the prospective position interest you? If you are not displaying energy and passion, the signal it sends is a lack of “real” interest in the position. With all the competition out there, if the position IS important to you – then it’s critical for you to convey that interest.
§ Answers not specific enough
My phrase for this is “vague generalities.” Differentiation comes when you have solid C-A-R + S (challenge, action, result + strategic importance) stories that illustrate what you did with what you know. Anyone with similar responsibilities and years of experience can (and will) say similar things. The way you get noticed is sell … value!
§ Weak value proposition (VP)
Your brand, your reputation, your strengths that have gotten you where you are. Your VP needs to be clear and compelling as it is the foundation of an effective career management strategy and communication plan. Everyone has a brand. The question is, what does your say about you? Figure it out and then tell the whole world!
§ Can’t build the bridge
Knowing your brand allows you to translate your VP to answer the needs of the prospective company. Showing that you have done your research and articulating how you are a fit for what the company needs is a strategic move that positions you above your competitors.
Next week, we’ll finish with the last five in Kent’s list.