As a career coach, or in my case, The Job Search Therapist that likes to focus on entry level and college grads, my job is NOT, contrary to what many believe, to find you a job. No, my job is to help YOU find the job. I will prepare you. I will partner with you. I am your coach and your teacher. I am your advocate and will support you in your effort. Make no mistake, this is your ride and I am only your navigator. You are the driver.
I will help you map it out. Together we can set the GPS and get this process moving. I provide you with the tools to get your foot in the door. Your job, once we accomplish that is to get the rest of you in the door.
There are techniques that can help make the foot in the door happen. The subtle things that people will notice when you have a conversation are significant and if presented well, they will separate you from many and hopefully get you on the short list of considerations and eventually get you the ultimate prize – A JOB!
However, it takes work. Preparation is the key. Do the research. Take time to look at the company and the people you are meeting with. Web sites and Linkedin are some of the obvious places to go for that. The information you need that makes you appear equipped, primed and look ready is so accessible. Not making an effort, no matter how junior or senior you are is an injustice to yourself and a sign of disrespect towards the person interviewing you. You want to speak fluently in their language. Know something about the culture, their mission, their objectives, the brand, the people, the structure…Make sure you invest some time. Maximize the moment. That foot in the door is the beginning of what can be a long and often times, tedious process.
This is not about you and what you need/want. The truth is, there is little focus on you – this is more about them. They have a need and if you are the person to fill that need – then an offer will be made.
Don’t overthink it, but invest in yourself and be prepared. You absolutely have to get your stuff in order to get that foot in the door. Learn to run with changes and rejection. You will experience plenty of both. Promises made are not always promises kept. Intentions are, with exception, well intended, but people get busy and sometimes you become an afterthought. You must not take this personally because if there is an opportunity to get that foot in the door, you wait it out. You suck it up and you remain persistent and above all, exhibit patience. Most of the time – it’s well worth it.
When the door does open – this is your time to shine. Exploring, networking, talking, interviewing become valuable learning experiences and although it’s not school, you are learning and at the same time, growing up.