Photo by Jacki Drexler on Unsplash
How aware are you of the things you do and say on a daily basis? If you were to take the place of an outsider and observe yourself, what would you think? Are your actions appropriate, are they reasonable, are they courteous, are they tolerable?
Self-confidence is great, but it's only great when it's measured and when it is consumable. Too much or too little to one side can be crippling. What gives you the better feeling, kill them with kindness or kill them with confidence? Your confidence is more likely to be killed versus killing someone with confidence.
During the hiring process we come across a lot of folks who exhibit a lack of self-awareness. Many people desire things that are unrealistic and unattainable given their current skill set or circumstances. Yet, time and time again these individuals fully believe in things like getting paid for what they did versus what they are going to do. Some are left in shock when companies are not interested in pursuing their candidacy. Are you aware that you’re light on experience, you want to travel less, and you want to get paid more?
We want so much so fast, yet we don’t stop to reflect on whether these decisions or these actions actually make sense. On the side of the hiring company, the market is what the market is...the data will tell you quickly what needs to be done in order to attract good talent. Clients often learn this the hard way. If only they could hear themselves when they try to hire with little to no upside for their candidates. Potential employees, oftentimes, are only willing to leave their current situation for a better opportunity. Are you aware that you are not presenting a better opportunity?
Honesty is essential in the hiring process. Candidates, be honest with yourselves. Clients, be honest with yourselves. Above all, be honest with each other. Lay things out on the table, feelings included. Maybe that doesn’t sound like the most business-savvy tactic, but when has honesty steered you wrong? When has an honest negotiation left you feeling slighted or without information? Honesty really is the best policy. An honest reflection on what you’ve said, what you expect, how you sound, what you’re offering, etc.
As you move forward, take the time to hear yourself, you’ll be better for it, I promise.
Written by: Rob Scherer, Vice President at Hunter Crown, LLC
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