You have the aptitude, education, talent and motivation. The only thing that you’re missing at this point in your life is, well, a job.
Finding the right position in Madison is going to be difficult, especially in the uncertain economy. But it’s certainly not impossible. Yes, employers are cutting jobs in nearly every sector, reflecting persistent anxiety about the economy. Nevertheless, quality jobs are still available, and as the economy tightens, the ability and depth of the job seeker must be more elastic, and selective traits have become even more desirable.
One of the skills topping employers’ wish lists is the ability to communicate honestly and sincerely. “In these times it’s even more important to be authentic and genuine,” says Karen Ostrov, Ph.D., a corporate psychologist at Connect Consulting LLC, who provides executive coaching and talent development services. “The local and Midwest job market favors truthfulness, sincerity, and authenticity, over your rank at an Ivy League school. Businesses here want smart people, but also find straightforwardness as a good value. My advice: successful companies in the region and city are looking for honesty and loyalty, so don’t fake it in your interview or on your résumé. If you don’t know an answer, be honest.”
Small business owner Gail Ambrosius shares Ostrov’s sentiments. Ambrosius is the owner of the Atwood Avenue chocolate boutique that bears her name. She has ten employees, half of them full-timers. “I want an applicant to be honest with me,” says Ambrosius. “My sense of character is something that’s instinctual, immediate; I get a good or bad feeling quickly. Personally, I want someone with high standards who will fit in with the rest of the people working here.”
It has also become even more crucial that candidates have the ability to communicate fluidly — including questioning, listening and observing — and that they know how to get the job done effectively and efficiently, while reducing costs. Demonstrating mental flexibility will also tip the scale in a candidate’s favor. “Now is the time to be diverse,” says Ostrov. “Diverse in terms of really being skillful in handling cognitive problems, and diverse in your ability to handle different personalities. There aren’t many opportunities at the high levels for those who lack people skills.”
Madison has a unique talent pool and a highly educated population. Jobs here can be exceptionally demanding, and employers are looking for those who can be versatile in their capacity to think through problems.
Networking is another key skill one should cultivate to land a job. Network every chance you get, exchange business cards, jot down Web domains, and attend all related and even non-related work or job seminars. (For networking tips, click here.)
And keep in mind, your reputation follows you. Therefore, one of the wisest things job candidates can do for themselves is to come into the interviewing and application processes with the clean karma of good conscience. “If you’ve behaved badly in the workplace, that gets around,” says Ostrov. “Madison is still a very local and small city. Having good character and reputation here is still most valuable.”
