Remember all the valuable advice Mom provided over the years? Well, she wasn’t only providing valuable life advice — as it turns out, she was also sharing insights that can help you succeed in your job search.
Here are a few of my favorites, along with some practical tips on how heeding them can help translate to job search success:
Be Nice to Others
Kindness matters. In the job search, as in life, how you treat others can speak volumes about your character and integrity. Follow the Golden Rule and treat others how you wish to be treated — or better.
And this doesn’t just apply to those above you in the hierarchy; be kind and respectful to the receptionist or administrative assistant who coordinates the interview, meets you in the lobby and escorts you to the hiring manager’s office. They may be asked for input.
Focus on How You Can Help Others
Rather than asking everyone how they can help you, find the job you want and focus on how you can help the people in charge there. In the process, you will demonstrate your interest, passion and work ethic, and they will be seeking opportunities to assist you.
Remember Your Manners
Good manners make a positive impression in a professional setting. Remember to say please and thank you, because it truly makes a difference.
When someone does something to assist you, send a thank you note, and always send a follow-up note after an interview. This is one of the best ways to differentiate yourself from the competition. Mom was right — this is such a small gesture that really speaks volumes.
Always Give Your Best Effort
How many times did Mom tell you, “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well?” Put your best foot forward by doing a thorough job, whether it’s preparing for the interview, participating in the interview or delivering a current project at work. Giving your best efforts demonstrates your professionalism, your capabilities and your commitment.
Focus on Relationships
At the end of the day, it is all about the people. Relationships matter. Your next job or your position 10 years from now could well be the result of the relationships you’re making now. (Tweet this thought.)
Make the effort to build and maintain positive relationships. Establish a mentor. Keep your network posted on your progress. Provide assistance where you are able. Treat people with respect.
Don’t Put Anything in Writing That You Wouldn’t Want to See in the Newspaper
Little did Mom know how easy it would be with technology to have things go public very quickly.
Be especially mindful of what you share publicly. Do not bash a former employer or manager. Do not put anything in writing that you wouldn’t tell a person face to face. Use integrity and discretion in all your communications.
Respect Differences
Not everyone is just like you. Being different isn’t necessarily better or worse; it is just that: different.
Pay attention to how your manager prefers to communicate. Identify and respect personal differences among your team. Use the opportunity to learn from colleagues who have different experiences and skills than you possess. Treat everyone with respect for the value they bring to the table.
Be Slow to Anger and Quick to Praise
Those who complain too much in the workplace are often branded as complainers, and that can be a hard label to shake.
Don’t complain for the sake of complaining. If there is a problem, identify it, research possible sources and offer potential solutions. That adds value instead of just compounding the issue. Praise those who do well so they will want to continue to do so.
Have a Plan, But Be Flexible
It is important to have goals and a plan for your career, but it’s also important to be willing to adjust along the way. Often, unexpected opportunities come our way that can be lost if we aren’t flexible.
Review your goals and plans at least once a year and modify them based on what you’ve learned about yourself and your desired path in the past year. Amend the plan appropriately. What is most important in your 20s may be very different from your priorities in your 30s. Don’t operate your job search on autopilot; be self-aware and reflective along the way.
No One Path Leads to the Goal
During the job search, you can become blinded by the goal of landing your next job. Remember. there are multiples paths that lead to that goal, and it’s important to enjoy the journey.
As you’re networking and conducting informational interviews, enjoy the relationships you’re building and the insight you’re gaining into a variety of companies and roles. Set goals for yourself along the way and celebrate those accomplishments. You can miss out on valuable learning if you don’t pay attention throughout the process.
Mom knows us well and loves us for who we are. So this Mother’s Day, remember to thank her for all the valuable advice she has delivered over the years, and let her know how helpful it is in your job search!
What’s the best lesson you ever learned from your mom? Share in the comments!
Image: Flickr
