It is amazing how many similarities there are between finding a job and dating. What you may know from experience is that they both take time and effort to produce the results you want!
Landing a job is about building relationships…that’s what dating is about too! As much as you probably don’t want to admit it, your like-ability comes into play as much as your work-related skills.
Here are 20 ideas for being more likable!
At the heart of every hiring decision is the feeling that you would be great to work with. I’ve seen job seekers get so caught up in their agenda to “sell” themselves, that they forget how important it is to build a relationship. (Ahem, building relationships is part of selling too!) Try applying these 13 dating reminders to your job search and see how you can woo your next employer.
1. Know what you are looking for in a partner. What are the qualities and characteristics of the right manager for you? What are the skills and talents you enjoy using most? What corporate culture do you want? Remember, it isn’t always about the money.
2. Make dating a priority. Dating means networking. Your chances of meeting Mr. or Ms. Right if you don’t leave your house are slim- they won’t come knocking on your door. You never know where you’ll meet that special someone who can introduce you to a potential job opportunity. Get out there and meet a lot of people to find the right fit.
3. Don’t jump the gun. Talking about a job too early in the networking process or discussing salary and benefits in the first conversation, is like talking about what you want to name your children on the first date. Learn about the other person and the company before you jump into these areas.
Please read all 13 similarities in my On Careers post on US News & World report.
This concept of building relationships isn’t meant to be trite. I am talking about building genuine relationships, the kind that last a lifetime (or at least longer than your job search!)
Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success.