What are They Looking For?

Want to get hired? Turn the table around.

➔ There is a lot of job-search talk that advises job seekers to look at the job description and to try and find themselves in it. Look for the indicators as to what the employer is seeking and demonstrate to that employer how you fit those requirements.

While that’s good advice, it’s only the beginning. A good preparation activity would be to pursue some role playing. Put yourself in the position of the employer. What is the employer trying to accomplish?

It's not their responsibility to find you a job

This is where the selling component of the job search comes in. As the applicant, you need to sell that employer on the idea that – depending on what their problem is – you’re the person who can solve that problem. Show them how you can solve that problem.

At the end of the day, when all is said and done, that’s what they want. They’re looking for someone who can solve their problem(s). They don’t care if you’re young or old, tall or short, etc., etc., etc. They’re looking at you and asking themselves, “Can this applicant solve my problem?”

Is that a selfish viewpoint? Probably. But, if you look at it from their perspective, that’s precisely what they’re getting paid to do: Finding people who can best solve their problem(s) and hiring them.

They won't notice your age if you show them your energy and enthusiasm. Go for it.

More tips.