Are Employers Rational?

Are employers any more rational than the falling leaves? We want to prepare for job search and interviews, but we can’t expect the interviewer to make a rational logical decision. They are influenced by the weather, who they hired last, the problems they are trying to solve, and balancing the team they currently have. Their own insecurities often come into play. You could be the best candidate for a particular job, but it doesn’t mean you will get it. Just as the weather changes and the wind shifts, the mood, budget, or needs of an employer, manager, or interviewer, can change at any moment.

All of the preparation that goes into your job search is not lost if you don’t get a particular job. If you prepare a file or portfolio of your strengths, skills, and experience you will have it for the next interview. No one likes to think about building a career portfolio, needing a career plan or having another interview. We want to have the perfect interview, get it over with, and not have to think about it for years. But all of the preparation for an interview can be an opportunity to find something positive about every job and training opportunity you have had. Each experience is building toward success. With each interaction, you will have a better idea of what you want or don’t want. It’s all a matter of finding a fit. You might just find a fit where you least expect it.

Developing job search planning and interviewing skills are a way to build excellent life skills such as problem-solving and decision-making. As you plan your search, look for something you are prepared for and experienced in, but also watch for things you want whether they are advertised or not. Talk to friends, family, and colleagues about what you want to do rather than just a job title. Be open to possibilities. Look ahead at where your path might lead you. Don’t wait for a leaf to fall in front of you. Go off of your path and pick one up. You might be surprised at what you find.

30 minutes walking