The right fit — strengths, passions, people

"Failure's hard, but success is far more dangerous. If you're successful at the wrong thing, the mix of praise and money and opportunity can lock you in forever."
– Po Bronson

"When love and skill work together, expect a masterpiece."
– John Ruskin

Finding the "right fit" in your career is the hallmark of a successful executive. Extraordinary executives lead careers that use both their strengths and passions more than six times as often as the average employee. The implications are profound. Not only is it possible to combine your strengths and passions in the same job, but success demands it.

Finding your strengths, passions, and cultural fit will bring you greater happiness and success in your career. Given the clear cut nature of this principle, it is incredible to note that only nine percent of executives surveyed believe they perform job activities about which they are passionate—working in a positive environment with people whom they like and respect.

Designing a Resume

If you had only 15 seconds to sell yourself, what would you say? This is the length of time a busy recruiter or employer may have to give your resume. There's no time for personal mission statements or expressions of lofty ideals. A resume's job is to get you in front of the people who matter.

Stick to the point

Write your resume in a straightforward and direct style—even if it means suspending normal rules of grammar. Stick to the facts without including unnecessary adjectives and adverbs.

Creating a resume to get attention

• While there is no single template for a perfect resume,
  structure it to be read quickly, with key points mentioned
  first.
• Unless it has been very haphazard, present your career in reverse chronological order.
• Stick to the facts and quantify your achievements, outlining them in context.
• Be succinct.
• Keep the layout simple and easy to read. Make sure
  it is compatible with common e-mail and word-processing programs.
• Never include anything on your resume that might exclude
  you from consideration.

The Interview: Preparing for an effective performance

• The interview is a meeting to determine fit, so the aim is to exchange high-value information.
• Research the employer's needs beforehand to identify how
  your experience is relevant.
• Prepare five or six case studies that show how you have overcome challenges, and highlight the management qualities used.
• Rehearse your case studies thoroughly so you can be as
  relaxed as possible during the interview.
• Ask leading questions that will give you the opportunity to
  cite relevant examples from your career.
• Listen for cues but don't try to take over the process.
• Be yourself.

Counteroffers

A career change is a very difficult decision to make. However, once made, you should follow through with it and not look back. Employees who accept counteroffers, as great as they may sound, more often than not, place their careers in jeopardy.

The National Business Employment Weekly reports that four out of five people who accept counteroffers are gone within the year. Be aware that your employer will assume you'll look again.

Sample Resignation Letter

Dear Mr. Jones:

It is with sincere regret that I am advising you that I am resigning my position with XYZ Company. My last day of employment will be Friday, August 11, 2004.

I want you to know that this action is solely due to what I believe is an excellent opportunity for my career path, and in no way reflects on you or XYZ Company. I have thoroughly enjoyed my position with the company and the leadership and professional relationship you have provided. I have, however, accepted a new position and my decision to leave is final.

While I will be starting my new position and career path on August 14, 2004, should I be able to assist you with any questions or problems during the transition I want you to feel free to call me.

Thank you for all that you and XYZ Company have done for me. I wish you and everyone the very best.

Sincerely,

Click here to inquire about packages and services to help you on your way to landing your next great position.
Or call Sharon Thomas at Permanent Ink: 614.473.0122.