As always, you provide some great insights here.

I completely agree with the job search not being just about the candidate. Rather, candidates must *show* me and not simply tell me that they truly want to work for me. What do I mean by this? Well, just like you said, job seekers must thoroughly know their target companies’ needs and wants and create value propositions based off those needs to deliver to these companies. I would rather hire a candidate who is passionate, knowledgeable and presents value to my company than just another self-proclaimed “qualified” candidate.

John – Thank you for your comment! I agree 100%. In this tough market, it is a lot to ask job seekers NOT to accept a job if the culture and “fit” are not right, but those who do follow their instincts always wind up much better off. That’s why I am such a fan of building relationships and networking, rather than simply applying for jobs. There is nothing better than engaging with people in organizations of interest to determine what job avenues to pursue.

Great to meet you as well and your point about job seeking being the marketing practice of getting someone to know, like and trust you is so right on. To take it a bit further the opposite is true – as someone looking for a job it’s in your best interest to get to know, like and trust the organization you might join. If you can’t do that, it just may not be the right place for you.

John