IT'S NOT ABOUT YOU!

When you’re in the middle of a job search, it’s easy to focus only on what you want and what you think you deserve.

Obviously, you want a great new job and you want it TODAY, right? And sure, you need to know what you’re looking for, but as you move forward, you need to be careful about being perceived as overly-needy or overly confident.

Employers can sense desperation and arrogance a mile away, so be careful not to give off either vibe.

Instead, focus on the ways that your skillset and experience can help your target employer. After all, companies post job opening because they have a problem to solve. Maybe they’re growing fast and the increased business requires more help.

Whatever the reason, you need to think about how you can help them solve their problem. Read the job posting carefully to see what it tells you. Are they expanding into a new area or adding a new service? Job ads often provide this information so pay attention. If you don’t see answers in the job posting, go to their website and read their news section to find clues.

Now you can craft a resume and cover letter, or LinkedIn message that addresses their growing pains and explains how you can help. Be genuine and self-assured, and make it about meeting the company’s needs, not your own.