As human beings, we are usually very good at identifying what we do not want, what we are lacking, and what we do not have when beginning a job search. It is like identifying how big the river is that we must cross to obtain our career success! To some it even seems impassable.
These obstacles are like large stones in the river that stand out as reasons we are not able to cross over to our dream job or next career move. I have found that dealing with these early in a job search can put these obstacles into proper perspective and with some planning and effort results in creating strategies to overcome them and turn them into stepping stones to help reach the other side or the career goal.
Although it is impossible to create an exhaustive list, some of the typical obstacles are:
– I am a new immigrant or international student.
– My GPA is lower than the average.
– I do not have any experience in the field.
– My greatest weakness is one of the core competencies.
– I do not have a network.
– I do not know how to network.
– My education is in a different discipline.
– I was not selected during the last recruiting opportunity in this field.
– I am not very good at interviewing.
…and the list goes on…
As it is with all of our obstacles, once identified, they can be addressed by taking steps to create strategies to overcome them or off-set them. Often a little coaching is needed to talk them through and to determine actions move ahead. Once these obstacles are addressed the actions taken become part of what can be marketed to show initiative and forward motion in professional development of simply the resourcefulness of improving oneself.
As well, much of overcoming our challenges is about how we talk about them and if we remain positive in the midst of personal and professional challenges.
Employers understand everyone has obstacles and challenges and they are interested in how individuals approach personal challenges and how they will talk about them. This is why they as questions like..
Tell me about your greatest weakness.
Tell me about a time you failed.
Tell me about a mistake you made.
Is there something you would do differently in your life if you had the chance?
The purpose of these questions is not the problem they are asking about. It is more about how the candidate approaches their challenges and the steps they have taken to improve themselves.
So remember, once you have identified your challenges, remain positive. Then, begin to address them and realize the added value you are creating by the steps you are taking to improve yourself as you overcome them. Once you have done this you will be able to walk on these obstacles and cross over your river to your next destination. This is how your obstacles become your stepping stones to success!
Before long your river will be in your rear view mirror!
Good luck!
Russell Garrett is the Owner of Protocol Business Solutions, a Certified Career Consultant and the DAP Career Coach. He will be available to meet DAP students for CPA Application Reviews and Interview Preparation during in-person coaching appointments taking place in July and during the CPA recruiting period. He will also be delivering workshops on Interview Preparation. Appointments and workshops will be posted and can be registered for on COOL. Or, if you are a DAP student and have career related questions or wish to book an online coaching appointment, he can also be reached at dapcareersupport@sauder.ubc.ca