The Art of Seeking Employment: Lessons from the Past

A Glimpse into History

Recently, I came across a poignant image of a man during the Great Depression, clad in a sandwich board as he sought work. His sign advertised his availability, much like the “Open to Work” posts flooding LinkedIn today. This picture serves as a reminder that nearly 90 years ago, job seekers made the same errors we see today. They communicated their desires rather than showcasing their capabilities.

The Common Mistake

Did that man expect prospective employers to stop and inquire about his skills, such as the three languages he spoke or his experience in various trades? Likely not. Similarly, many job seekers today express what they want—remote work, high salary, and immediate benefits—rather than highlighting what they bring to the table. This raises a key question: Are job seekers effectively showcasing their strengths and achievements?

The LinkedIn Paradox

LinkedIn offers an incredible platform for job seekers to broadcast their availability, eliminating the need for sandwich boards. Yet, many still fall into the trap of merely stating their demands. Instead of simply declaring their need for employment, job seekers should emphasize their skills and demonstrate their value to potential employers.

What Employers Want to Hear

Recruiters and hiring managers are inundated with unsubstantiated statements like, “I’m a team player” or “I’m detail-oriented.” They crave concrete evidence of capability. Here are some actionable examples job seekers should utilize to gain attention:

• On-Site Availability: Indicating a willingness to work on-site can be very appealing to employers.
• Multilingual Skills: Proficiency in languages like English, French, and Spanish can set a candidate apart.
• Certifications: Showing credentials such as PMP or AWS Certified Solutions Architect signals industry expertise.
• Robust Project Management Experience: Demonstrating a history of managing projects with significant ROI showcases impact.
• Sales Achievements: Specific sales figures, like selling over 500 cars in a competitive market, demonstrate proven success.
• Satisfaction Metrics: Metrics like maintaining a 95% client satisfaction rate elevate a candidate’s profile.

Networking: A Hidden Gem

Networking remains pivotal in job searching. Most people want to assist job seekers, but it’s essential to make it easy for them to do so. Instead of vague messages, provide context. Instead of saying, “I’m looking for a job,” say, “I excel at project management and am interested in opportunities in that field.”

Avoid Guilt-Inducing Statements

Using phrases like “I have rent to pay” or “I’m running low on savings” won’t compel employers to hire you. Employers are not responsible for your personal circumstances. They prioritize value and contributions over individual situations.

Crafting Your "Open to Work" Announcement

When posting an open-to-work announcement, clarity and context are critical. Hiring managers need to evaluate your potential value. Aim to craft each point so that the reader thinks, “I must meet this person!”

Specificity Matters

Your worth is not gauged by your lifestyle choices or salary needs but by the value you can provide. For example, showcasing a success story like “Grew TikTok followers from 0 to 10,000 in four months” is far more effective than a vague claim of managing social media. Concrete examples resonate with employers.

The Business Relationship

It’s crucial to understand the employer-employee relationship as a business transaction rather than a personal one. Employers are not concerned with aspects beyond your professional contributions, such as lifestyle choices or the rising cost of living.

Focus on Value

To maximize your chances of landing a job, shift your focus to showcasing your value. Communicate your strengths clearly in your ‘Open to Work’ announcements, resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and during interviews.

Instead of making employers guess your capabilities, present them clearly, allowing potential employers to recognize the value you bring without any expectation of responsibility for your lifestyle.

Through strategic and well-articulated representations of your skills and accomplishments, you set the stage for a more effective job search, transforming the way you seek employment in today’s competitive landscape.