In job search – whether in resumes or interviews, most of us focus on promoting ‘What’ we do – almost like reciting a job description. This is relevant information however it doesn’t differentiate you from your competition. Instead, draw the interviewer in by highlighting ‘Why’ they should hire you. Start by creating a compelling reason for them to hire you, then move to describing ‘What’ you do to achieve these results.
By shifting from explaining ‘What’ you do, i.e.: ‘I have 10 years of production management experience’, to highlighting ‘Why’ you do it, i.e: ‘I lead production plants to increase productivity and decrease costs’ you demonstrate your focus on achieving results and moving organizations forward. Once you have grabbed the hiring manager’s attention you can then dive into ‘What’ you do and ‘How’ you do it. It’s a subtle change that can position you as a lead candidate.
Check out TedTalk by Simon Sinek to learn more about the impact of ‘Starting with the Why’.
Wishing you much career success,
Joanne Loberg
Certified Executive Coach & Internationally Certified Career Management Professional
JL Careers Inc.
