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what is the most important factor in finding a job?

#job #job-search #networking #career #human-resources #career

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Subject: Career question for you

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Scoty’s Answer

Every job I’ve ever actually obtained has been a mixture of merit and connections. You need to have worked
Hard to obtain skills and knowledge that are useful so you can be confidant in what you’ll provide, but you can’t forget about making connections. Often times the opportunities to show what you can do will come from who you know. We trust the opinions of people we respect.

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Niveditha’s Answer

The most important factor would be a match of skill and interests. A combination of these 2 will help you land a job that pays while u enjoy it
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Dorothy’s Answer

One of the most important factors to me.. Is looking at the growth ladder in that company and asking yourself "Is that a ladder I'm willing to climb?" People focus on pay and benefits.. but never the career. Can you see yourself doing the job long term - if it has no growth potential? Can you see yourself owning or running the business at some point in that 'growth ladder if it does?

Dorothy recommends the following next steps:

Research the company higher up, see when they started verses where they are now - and how long it too them to get there.. and ask YOURSELF are you will to do it in as much time or less?
Reach out and ask.. "What hurdles did you have in getting to where you are today?"
Reach out to someone who haven't moved up the ladder - but been with the company for a long time.. "Why haven't you moved ahead?"
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Somya’s Answer

There is no one major factor. It has to be a combination of many things.
- Keep learning new things about you the field you are interested in (from courses and projects) and apply to jobs which offer work you like.
- Make sure you study about the company before you apply. Go through their website, past interview questions and reviews online.
- Keep your online profiles updated, be it LinkedIn or Github or any platform you would like to share with the recruiters
- Though not extremely important, connections are also needed. It makes job hunting process easier and faster.
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Ricardo’s Answer

Marquis,

Some great advice already given. I would just add that:

1. Don't let the job description/requirements discourage you from applying, if you have 70% to 80% of what is being asked you may still be a good fit for the job.
2. Go into interviews with the mindset that even if you are not selected for this particular job, this is an opportunity to make connections for future job openings.

Good Luck!
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Amber’s Answer

If your getting started early in your career getting relevant experience is so valuable. If you have an idea of what type of field you want to get into, try finding opportunities that utilize similar skills. For example if you want to become a teacher, working at a Montessori school is going provide you an opportunity to help you develop those skills in a professional environment and provide for relevant examples to share in an interview. Think of a career as a journey, you many not land your dream job immediately but every stepping stone is getting you closer to your ultimate goal.
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Bianca’s Answer

Hi Marqui,

We have 4 pieces of advice for you :

1. Our advise is to find something you are passionate about, otherwise it can be miserable!
2. Always given the impression that careers were gendered, thought it took some time to shake that off. Piece of advice: don’t allow gender to set the rule on what career or role you want!
3. Think of yourself as your own company! So think of it as your own CEO.
4. Feedback should never be new! It should not come as a surprise, should be achieving against goals/aims as and when vs waiting for an event e.g a talent review etc
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Rachel’s Answer

I think it depends on what your personal core values and goals are. My advice would be - find a company that aligns with those and it will be a good match for you at the core. Your roles can change over the years, depending on your skills and interests, but these are the most important things for me personally. Company culture, company goals, and company values are examples.
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Janet’s Answer

The most important factor is to make sure the interviewer wants you on their team and that you convince them you are already part of the team before you are ever hired. Instead of going to an interview and being reactive by defending your resume, turn the interview around. I would suggest a game changer approach that immediately gets you into a collaborator/team player position with your interviewer. Right at the beginning of the interview, try this approach before they begin their boiler-plate questions. My best to you!

Janet recommends the following next steps:

Thank them for their time and tell them how excited you are about the position. Immediately tell them one thing that stands out in the position and tell them why it sparks excitement/interest with you. This gives them insight into your personality and passions and shows you have true interest.
Then ask them for the pain points (or needs) they are currently experiencing within the position. Ask thoughtful follow up questions to spot the root cause and then ask how they are currently dealing with it. This give them the impression you are already on their team and you are an empathetic team player..
Follow up by sharing a similar experience and how you resolved it OR ask them questions like 'Did they try... (your great idea)?" This will show that you have good ideas but also doesn't imply that you think they are doing anything wrong with their current efforts. Don't say 'If i were hired, I would do XYZ' because you don't know all aspects of the issue and don't want to be seen as a 'know-it-all'.
If you get the feeling that this approach may not be appropriate in the beginning of your interview, then just pick and choose these steps depending on how the interview is going. In the end, these types of steps are meant to get them thinking you are already on their team and the your onboarding will be easy.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Marquis,

The most important factor in finding a job is networking.

Networking: Networking is crucial in the job search process as it involves building and maintaining relationships with professionals in your field. Networking provides opportunities to learn about job openings that may not be publicly advertised, receive referrals, gain insights into specific industries or companies, and even secure interviews. It allows you to tap into the hidden job market where many positions are filled through word-of-mouth recommendations rather than traditional job postings.

Building a Strong Network: To effectively network, it’s essential to attend industry events, career fairs, conferences, and seminars where you can meet potential employers or individuals who can introduce you to key contacts. Utilizing online platforms like LinkedIn can also expand your network by connecting with professionals in your industry. Additionally, reaching out to alumni from your college or university, former colleagues, friends, and family members can also help broaden your network.

Leveraging Your Network: Once you have established connections, it’s important to nurture these relationships by staying in touch, offering assistance when possible, and being proactive in seeking advice or information related to your job search. By leveraging your network effectively, you increase your chances of being referred for job opportunities and gaining valuable insights that can enhance your application process.

Benefits of Networking: Networking not only helps in finding job opportunities but also provides a support system of professionals who can offer guidance, mentorship, and career advice. Building a strong network can lead to long-term professional relationships that may benefit you throughout your career advancement.

In conclusion, while factors such as having a strong resume, relevant skills, and experience are important in finding a job, networking stands out as the most critical factor due to its ability to open doors to hidden opportunities and connect you with influential individuals who can impact your career positively.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

Harvard Business Review (HBR): The Harvard Business Review is a reputable source known for its high-quality articles on business-related topics. It provides insights into networking strategies and their impact on career development.

Forbes: Forbes is a well-known publication that covers various aspects of business and careers. It offers expert advice on networking techniques and their significance in the job search process.

LinkedIn Learning: LinkedIn Learning is an educational platform that offers courses on professional development topics, including networking skills. It provides practical guidance on how to build and leverage networks effectively for career growth.

God Bless You, Richly, JC.
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Gloria’s Answer

HI Marquis,

The most important element in finding a job is knowing your own strengths. You need to really take a look at what your strengths and opportunities are. When you know this, you can be confident moving forward to apply for jobs.

Other things to know include:
1) Companies are not looking for you to have 100% of the items in the job description. If you meet half of the expectations, I would recommend that you apply. You may have the most important element of the job in your skill set. Other elements of a job can be taught.
2) Be prepared for an interview. Know a lot about the company and know about the job that they are hiring. Be prepared with your questions for them. I have been known to ask - what does an ideal candidate for this job look like? This question allows you one last chance to highlight how you fit in the position.

Gloria
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Dana’s Answer

Having a clear idea of what you are looking for and making sure that you have the right skills for that job. Also, identifying the right sources, job boards, network sites, where you can find the suitable opportunities for you.
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Yasmine’s Answer

Great question! In my opinion, the most important factor is finding a job that you will love doing. Nothing is worst than having to come into work every day and do a job you're not passionate about. Find something you're passionate about and it will be fun doing it each day.
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Bryan’s Answer

I think finding a job is similar to everything in life - it's better when you go into with intention and a plan. Here are some steps to consider:
1.) Determine what your gifts, talents and aspirations are.
2.) Research industries you're interested in. Pick some focus industries/sub-industries.
3.) Map out your connections (or be proactive and create some) in your industry of choice.
4.) Find open roles and internships (and link to them).
5.) Work hard to find champions at the companies on your list with the openings.
6.) Once rapport is built- have your champions put in your name for a role. You may need to craft bullets points on "why you".
7.) If submitting applications via a champion isn't working, start applying and then connecting with folks at the companies you want to work for.
8.) Make sure the company aligns with your values, desired culture, job responsibility and benefits/compensation.
9.) Get that job!
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