How to get that job

At some point in our lives we all have to go and get a job. Now, the road isn’t always easy for first time job seekers. Newbies often panic when called for an interview, dreading that they might mess up (well that’s you, am not afraid of job interviews…wakanda forever!) and lose the job. Getting a job is necessary because it teaches you a lot about the workplace and how business is done.  It’s a school where you practically learn about people, processes and how the money is made. It’s important to establish this on the onset and make sure you learn as much as you can. This will help you further on in your career whether you want to grow into a higher position or set your own path by starting a business. It’s free education that you get paid for and don’t have to break your bank. But how does one land a job at that big corporation? Disclaimer: What am about to tell is my opinion and not a universal solution, apply these methods at your own risk and don’t contact me if it does not work…if it does, buy me a coffee. Let us dive in:

Recon

Reconnaissance is a technique used in the military to study the enemy. In war times, military operatives would be sent into the enemy‘s camp, study the weaponry and even battle plans. Once complete they would cascade this information to their generals and then the generals strategically create counter plans. Recon worked because it would remove the element of surprise from the battlefield. Now we can implement some toned down version of recon when trying to land a job. You do not contact anyone at the company. Instead, you visit their website and find out what they are about, their vision, mission and core values. Chances are they will ask you this in the interview. If not, this will help you know what you are getting yourself into. Check out their LinkedIn business page and employees who work there. Find out what their products are like and test them out.

Network

A network is good because it helps you discover opportunities. Someone somewhere has something that can get you where you want to be.  The catch is you have to find him or her at the right place and time. Seems complicated, right? That is where a network comes in. You don’t have to spend days searching, the information flows to you. Attend hackathons, seminars, webinars, conferences or that company’s product launch events if you can. Meetup with people in the field you want to venture into. I got a couple business cards once after attending a hackathon.

Skill Up

Employers love credentials, like really love them. Make sure you have a few credentials to your name so that when you apply for that job you are distinguishable. Also, go after those new hot in demand skills that have just emerged. Companies usually open up new positions in order to stay relevant. For example, corporations are opening up data analytics and digital marketing departments because it’s the current trend. Having that extra certificate from Udemy or Google or any other vendor of your choice is a plus.

Demonstrate Ability

The certificate is for Human Resources (compliance, recruiting policy, filing purposes etc). Having a certificate in a specific area is not enough. You have to demonstrate you know your onions. Companies are looking to employ problem solvers and innovators who will push the business forward. This is especially true in technology firms. You don’t want to be vomiting all over the nicely cleaned carpet when given a laptop, two hours and a quiet room to create a weather app. Even if they don’t ask you to demonstrate, take the initiative, use the information you gathered at recon to suggest then demonstrate how they can improve their business. I once did this and got hired.

Dress Up

Before people realize what is in your head, they create impressions based on your outer appearance. So dress well to avoid the interview panel creating a not so favorable perception of you. Dress smart and wear appropriately for the role. Also, be cautious of the color of your outfits and scent of your perfume or deodorant. Too much of anything is not good. Don’t overdo it.

Have no fear

You don’t know these people, they don’t know you and you don’t have the job yet. You are not their employee, so why fear? Do whatever makes you feel is the best approach to land the job. Have confidence to express and market yourself in the best way you can. No stammering please, you came to the interview on your own volition, with no gun pointed to your head.

Do send your gratitude

When you are done with all your interviews, thank the panel for taking the time to consider you and after a day or two send a thank you email. You lose nothing.