Individuals who are seeking career growth or new opportunities often fall into the trap of focusing solely on what employers are looking for. They believe that there is a magic formula or a perfect answer that will guarantee them the job or opportunity they desire.
Unfortunately, much of the advice found online on how to look for a job is centered on how to present oneself in a way that caters to the employer's needs. There are countless templates, scripts, and advice on how to mold oneself into the "perfect candidate." Recently, some candidates have even turned to CHATGP in search of the elusive perfect interview answer.
However, this approach can be misleading and ineffective. It is crucial to remember that every candidate is unique and has their own set of skills, values, and experiences that they can bring to the table. A one-size-fits-all approach to job searching is unlikely to lead to long-term success.
Instead of focusing solely on what employers are looking for, job seekers should take the time to reflect on their own career goals, strengths, and values. By understanding what they are looking for in a job or opportunity, they can better tailor their approach to fit their needs and stand out from the crowd.
The danger of solely focusing on presenting oneself as the "perfect candidate" is that it often leads to inauthenticity and insincerity. These traits can be easily detected during the interview process and do not sit well with the hiring team.
As someone who has interviewed over 2,500 people for companies such as Tiffany & Co, LVMH, and luxury hotel chains, I know for a fact that what companies truly want is someone genuine, interested, and prepared. Being genuine, showing interest in the company, and conveying a positive attitude are key characteristics that set top candidates apart.
While it's important to prepare for an interview and highlight one's best traits and experience, it's also important to be authentic and true to oneself. By staying true to oneself and leading with integrity, candidates can ensure that they stand out from the rest and make a lasting impression on the hiring team.
It's important to remember that following a generic formula or misrepresenting one's qualifications during the interview process can actually hurt one's chances of standing out to the hiring team. In fact, as someone who has interviewed countless candidates, I can attest that hearing the same scripted answers from 8 out of 10 candidates is not impressive or memorable.
Instead, it's crucial to focus on identifying one's own values, strengths, and skills, and understanding how they can bring value to the employer. This allows candidates to prepare for interviews in an authentic and effective manner, highlighting their unique traits and experiences.
Ultimately, the key to success in the job search process is to present oneself authentically, take a genuine interest in the company and opportunity, and effectively communicate how one's abilities can benefit the employer. Candidates who can convey these qualities with confidence and sincerity are the ones who are most likely to stand out to the hiring team and achieve success in their desired role.
