10 Characteristics Of A Successful Job Seeker

This week I asked people via my Facebook Page a question and I loved their answers. 

So much that I decided to summarize their responses with a blog post.

Because, as a group, I think they got it right.

And I wonder, as you read through this list, whether you can honestly say you have these characteristics. And if you don’t, what is the real impact on your search?

As part of the Facebook post, I agreed to give away a digital copy of HeadStrong – The Keys To A Confident And Positive Attitude During Job Search. As you can see I gave away 25 copies (this promo is over but we’ll do another).

So what are the characteristics of a successful job seeker? And how important are characteristics vs. your experience, your marketing materials and the depth of your network?

Here’s what responders said:

1. Persistence/Perseverance/Commitment

There will be good times and not so good times during job search. But you have to possess a strong head and a strong sense of purpose during job search.  Without persistence, you will give up, get frustrated or stop acting with the commitment required to make it.

2. Goal-Focused

Every time I speak to a crowd of job seekers I always hand out my goal card. It includes a simple statement “This week in my job search I will…” and 10 lines for them to write their goals for the week. You need to have goals.  Without them, you are left to impulsive actions. And a less productive week.

3. Clarity

You need to know your job search objectives. Here’s a job search strategy video to see some examples of poor clarity and a final that is nice and clear. This is the first thing we do in the new job search strategy software. We help you create clear objectives – so you and others know what you are looking for.

4. Efficiency

The origins of Tim’s Strategy (read my about page) are heavily focused on efficiency.  Why? Because instantly (once laid off) you have all the time in the world.  Too much time.  And no structure.  So you have to create that structure for yourself. Is structure and the right activity built into your job search?

5. Tenacity

This isn’t about being aggressive.  Or pushy.  Or hard-coated.  It’s about being focused and having a stick-to-it personality. Making sure you get the most out of your networking meetings and keeping your commitments to help others (introductions, etc).  Are you? 

6. Positive Attitude

 Yeah. It matters. A lot.  Even when things aren’t going well, you have to bring your best each time you step into a networking circle, interview room or recruiting office. People want to help and will most willingly if you appear to be a positive person.  Someone who is able to help themselves. My trick? Pay attention to your small wins.  You can do that (share them with others and enjoy the wins of others) on the LinkedIn group.

7. Confidence

 You need to display confidence. Why? Because we like to hang out with and hire confident people.  We don’t tend to hire desperate people. You may feel it.  That’s OK.  But you need to maintain and build your confidence during job search.

8. Follow-through

Half steps aren’t good enough.  Why? Because everyone on the hiring side is much busier than you are. They will need a monthly reminder that they met you in some cases and that you are the right fit for the job.

9. Good communicator

You have to be able to tell your story.  And it’s not just the words.  It’s the way you deliver them. A great elevator pitch is one aspect. Your professional resume is another. Make sure you can tell your story with energy.

10. Hard worker

Sometimes we think the job will come to us.  It won’t most of the time. And especially not in a bad economy. So you have to work for it. Lots of networking events, coffees, research.  Please don’t be too optimistic too early during job search.  It’s dangerous.

Summary

Your ability to demonstrate these characteristics may be the difference between landing a job within a reasonable time-frame and missing out on some great opportunities during job search.

Give yourself a point for each characteristic that you truly have (be honest – no one will know but you). How did you do? And what would be the impact on your search if you could apply those missing characteristics to your process next week?

Is it time to assess your job search?

Written by: Tim Tyrell-Smith
Tags: book of job | characteristics | confidence interval | facebook | job | Job Search | job search strategies | job seeker | job seekers | jobs | my job search | new job search | the job | working: people talk about what they do all day and how they feel about what they do | your job
Categories: How To Find A New Job