One of the questions people ask me
most is “how do I sell myself to an employer?”. In most cases, especially when
talking about senior or middle management, my simple answer is “don’t”.
When you reach a certain level of seniority,
a CV with increasing responsibilities and clear achievements is enough to pass
the first hurdle. Okay, when it is full of typing errors, some questions will
arise.
More important at that level, is
the cultural fit between you and the hiring company as well as the chemistry between
you and your future manager.
Let’s first talk about the fit with
the culture of a company.
Your capability to function within
the unspoken, undefined framework that is called a company culture is essential
to any success in your job. When you clearly articulate the environment you
thrive in, you increase the likelihood that you will find that position which
allows you to be successful.
It is of no use to adapt your style
to please the company you would like to join.
Secondly, the chemistry…
Chemistry is defined as a reaction,
taken to be instinctual, between two persons. Chemistry cannot be created, you
either have it or you don’t. In the corporate world it is often determined by
the question “could this person help me to be successful?”.
The selection process is like an
engagement period. Both parties discover each other, learn about one’s
personality and determine whether they can be happy together in the long
run…yes, for better and for worse!
In the end, it comes down to the
simple answer “I do”…or “I don’t”
Am I saying that you should not be
at your best behavior? No, not really, every employer assumes that you are
doing your best to get the job. If you appear unprepared (I still meet
candidates who have no idea what the products are of the company they are applying
for) or you look like you are going on holiday (there is nothing wrong with a professional
appearance), future employers – but also headhunters, will loose any interest regardless of the fit or the chemistry.
What I am saying is that, should
you feel at any point during the selection process, that a position does not
match your aspirations, that the company’s way of working is not in line with
yours or that your future manager gives you the creeps … express it and
discover whether it is a blocking factor.
This may seem scary, especially if
you are out of a job but in the long run, this is what will make you happy and
a star in your job!
I look forward to hearing from you,
Isabel
Through a personalized and
tailor-made approach, Ingenium Executive Search aspires to assist you in
attracting the right talent that matches the DNA of your company
Follow me on Twitter
@IngeniumSearch
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