Did you know that in 2019 the global unemployment rate reached its lowest in ten years? You heard this right! Even if there are talks about a new recession, the numbers clearly show that unemployment is trending down. Overall, this is good news. So how does this affect you? From a candidate perspective, it means that you need to be better prepared when searching for a new job as the stakes are high and the bar is being raised every year. A higher competition on the market means you need to be on top of your game.
When thinking about a new job, most people focus on the “What.” What to do to get a better job? What questions to ask in an interview? What to expect from the recruitment process? Etc… It is a proper way to start and you need to have clear steps so that you reach your goal. However, there is another significant angle that candidates tend to ignore: The “How.”
How to differentiate yourself in the recruitment process?
Though there are many techniques to distinguish yourself in a recruitment process, today, we will focus on one of the most powerful weapons you have: your mindset. Believe it or not, your mindset influences the outcome of any situation. You might find this esoteric, but there is a straightforward scientific explanation to this: your thoughts program your behavior. So, to stand out from the crowd, you will learn some easy techniques to ensure the best mindset for a recruitment process and eventually, an interview.
1. Identify your strengths
It might sound very basic and general; however, most people struggle when they are asked to mention their top 2 advantages. We are going to refer to these as “super-powers” going forward. Though it is easy for people to lay-out a long list of all their traits and skills, when asked to pick top 2, things get a bit harder. If you don’t know your super-powers yet, you needn’t worry. You’ll learn one easy way to identify them.
First, compile the list mentioned above with all your strengths. Then think about which ones you use more often and have helped you the most throughout time. Next, remember what you have been praised for during your career. As a 3rd step, ask people who know you to tell you 2 things they appreciate about you. Once you have all this data, cross-check the answers and see which ones prevail.
Congratulations! You now have your super-powers ready to serve you!
2. Use your super-powers to get an interview
Maybe you are wondering how to do this? It is easier than you imagine because most people draft a single resume and a templated cover letter and send it for every job application. Though this might be the most convenient as you have to work once and you save time, it is not effective at all. You have to attract attention to your candidacy even before the interview. A compelling cover letter that paints a picture of why you are unique should use your super-powers to persuade you are the best for that job.
3. Be on top of your game in the interview
Now that you have secured an interview, I am sure you are excited but also a bit nervous about making a great impression. It is normal! So here are some tips and tricks on how to maintain a positive mindset and radiate a great vibe during the interview.
- Be positive about the interview (after all it is a learning experience if not more)
- Envision what acing this can help you achieve
- Think only about the best possible outcome
- Imagine the ideal place to work in
- Make a list of your fundamental achievements
- Prepare some possible answers to common interview questions
- Beforehand play energetic, motivational music
4. Keep controlling your mindset; don’t let it control you!
Planning is crucial for getting the desired results; however not always things go as planned. You shouldn’t consider this an issue. You are now equipped with tools to influence your mindset and you can use these even when things don’t turn out as expected. The tools are especially valuable when things go wrong. So, whatever the outcome, think about it as a learning experience and keep your spirits high.
Ensure you are always on the right track!
A new job search is only a phase of your life. It is excellent to ace it, but it shouldn’t be the ultimate purpose. You should focus on having a happy and fulfilled life and there are steps you can take to ensure this as well:
- Count your blessings and be grateful for them
- Keep busy with things you love
- Interact most with people that give you positive vibes
- Learn something new every day
Want to learn more techniques? Get in touch with us for a free coaching session or take our Job Search course.