This week, I agreed to meet with two professionals in the design and construction industry that are looking for new positions. {I say ‘agreed’ to meet, because there’s not enough time in the day to meet with every job seeker and still do my own work.}
Naturally, I asked these job-seekers about their most desirable position for their next move. As I learned more about them (one seeking a senior project manager position; one seeking a c-level or ownership-level non-technical position), I recalled some advice that I heard while at an event hosted by law firm Schiff Hardin.
When searching for a new job, a first order-of-business is to write your own job description and title. Be thoughtful. Does your newly-created description completely match your own skill sets? Or perhaps is it a position that you want to grow into, requiring supplemental training, tools, and support? Would it stretch and challenge you? Or would it be something that you can do in your sleep (well, not really)? Since you are the creator of this fictitious job description, you will want to write your ‘ideal’ parameters. Simultaneously, take a critical eye at what you’ve written; weave in realistic requirements and responsibilities for the position.
Now, with this new job description in mind, think about how you would best present yourself to fill such a position. As well, think about how you would articulate your response to this ever-posed question: What is it that you are looking for? Use this description as a guideline to shape your response. Rest assured, you will be perceived as clear; sincere; focused; competent; and confident.