This Blog first appeared on: http://www.wilddreams.co.za/ and posted with their approval.

Changing your mindset..

When it comes to the job search process, many job seekers approach it with the mindset of being tested. They feel as though they are being judged and evaluated based solely on their skills and qualifications. However, this mindset can be limiting and ultimately hinder a person’s chances of landing their dream job. Instead, job seekers should shift their mindset to one of discussing their compatibility with the job.

The traditional job interview often follows a structured format where the interviewer asks a series of questions to determine if the candidate is qualified for the position. However, this approach can feel like an interrogation for the job seeker, causing them to feel nervous, defensive, or even discouraged if they don’t have an answer to every question.

By changing their mindset from being tested to having a discussion, job seekers can approach the interview as a two-way conversation. Rather than trying to impress the interviewer with rehearsed responses, job seekers can focus on showing their personality, values, and work style. This allows both parties to assess if there is a compatibility between the job requirements and the job seeker’s personality and strengths.

Here are some tips on how to approach job interviews as a discussion about compatibility:

1. Research the company culture and values – Before the interview, research the company’s culture and values to understand if they align with your own. This will help you determine if the company is a good fit for you and help you better articulate your compatibility with the company during the interview.
2. Prepare questions – Come prepared with thoughtful questions about the company and the role. This will show the interviewer that you are genuinely interested in the position and eager to learn more about the company. It will also help you assess if the job is a good fit for you.
3. Share your work style – During the interview, share examples of how you work and communicate with others. This will give the interviewer an idea of how you would fit into the company culture and work environment.
4. Be honest – Don’t be afraid to be honest about your strengths and weaknesses. This will show the interviewer that you are self-aware and willing to work on improving your skills. It will also help them assess if you are a good fit for the job requirements.
5. Follow up – After the interview, follow up with a thank you email to reiterate your interest in the position and express your appreciation for the opportunity to discuss your compatibility with the job.

In conclusion, job seekers should shift their mindset from being tested to discussing compatibility with the job. By approaching the interview as a two-way conversation, job seekers can show their personality, values, and work style and determine if the job is a good fit for them.

Remember to research the company culture and values, prepare thoughtful questions, share your work style, and be honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Be curious and authentic. Remember, both parties are evaluating each other to determine if there is a good match. With this mindset, job seekers can increase their chances of landing their dream job