How have you traditionally handled your job search? For most people, it’s by chance. You happen to find yourself looking at a position - intentionally or not - and think, “I can do that.” Before you know it, you’re applying for the opportunity. A perfectly fine way to go about attaining the next appointment in your career. But that doesn’t mean there isn't a better way - one which goes further toward ensuring you do more than just get an interview. Rather, you actually land the gig. Here are five key steps to owning your future job before you even have the role.
Reach out to the Hiring Manager
When you truly know the title you covet, the hiring manager shouldn’t find out you’re interested the day you apply. They should know months (sometimes years) in advance. They’re not mind readers either. In other words, simply telling them you’ve wanted the job for a long time isn’t good enough. It takes prior conversations and, in some instances, a collaborative game plan for how you’ll go about positioning yourself to achieve the role. But, at the bare minimum, the hiring manager should already know you exist. Bottom line: people won’t know you’re interested in a job if you don’t tell them. Therefore, tell them early. And tell them often. That way, when the time comes to submit your resume, not only is the hiring manager unsurprised to see you’ve applied, they expected your application.
Tap into your network
You’ve identified the role you want. Great. Now it’s time to leverage the amazing contacts you’ve cultivated over the years. Seek out the friends and colleagues who have knowledge and experience in the area of the position you covet. Ask if they can spend some time with you - coffee chats, group lunch, phone calls, etc. Dig into their insights and perspectives. Gain as much as you can to best prepare you for when it’s ‘go’ time! It could be info for writing the ideal CV, cover letter, or resume. Or maybe it’s tips on orchestrating the best possible interview. Perhaps it’s suggestions for building a strong 30/60/90-day plan once you assume the role. Whatever you can pull out of these various discussions, it’s all gold. Use it for what it’s worth. Use it wisely. And be sure to thank your connects immediately after your visit with them. Then, thank them again once you’re hired for the job. They deserve recognition for their volunteered contribution.
Shadow the sitting job holder
Of course, this step comes with a caveat. The person currently in the chair has to be open and willing to allow you to shadow them. Now, assuming both she or he and their boss are agreeable (definitely don’t forget to get permission from their supervisor), it’s a tremendous opportunity to get a peek behind the curtain. Have intimate job discussions with the person. Attend meetings. Be introduced to key stakeholders - and pick their brains, as well, if a free moment arises. Go to any position-related events that don’t require much travel or cost. Try to get role experience so you not only understand and appreciate the job, but so you’re also as prepared as possible for when you’re in the seat. It helps with your onboarding process, too, as your learning curve is flattened some.
Extend your knowledge
Motivational public speaker Brian Tracy once said, “Continuous learning is the minimum requirement for success in any field.” Assuming your schedule allows, find ways to grow your knowledge base. Whether that’s something as simple as webinars and inter-organizational training courses that fit the criteria of your desired position, or something as advanced as a certificate or graduate degree. Maybe it’s a combination of all of those. Whichever option you choose, just be sure to prioritize accordingly, don’t overcommit, and make the most of the experience. ‘In one ear and out the other’ may get you to the end result, but it won’t help you later down the road if you don’t actually absorb the material.
Be patient
The process of preparing for your future role takes time. It could take a month. It might take a year. But, if the job is truly the one you want, be patient. Avoid the temptation to apply for another position in the interim - especially if the company has a term-length for how long you need to stay in any newly acquired role. That instant gratification is fleeting if it costs you the chance at your ultimate goal. Beyond that, it’s important to stay true to yourself and the course you’ve set (see my own experience above). One of the most fulfilling sensations is to pass on a good opportunity for a better one. The key, however, is to constantly remind yourself you’re meant for something bigger. Indeed, patience is a virtue.
On their own, each of these five behaviors will better situate you for earning the job you look to achieve someday. But, when used in concert with one another, they can more decisively make the difference between having hope or having it in the bag. That’s how you own your job before it’s yours.
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