If you’ve ever started a business, or had a dream of starting one, you probably know how difficult it can be to write a business plan, attract investors or go through the stressful process of trying to raise startup money. Startups have to have an attractive plan, a marketing strategy, credentials, careful research and a management team that makes the investment attractive.
Convincing investors to believe in you and put their money behind your ideas isn’t easy. The process of launching a startup and getting a job are similar in a lot of ways. If you want to get a job, you have to have a solid resume with accomplishments that show you have a track record of success. You’ve got to have confidence to convince an employer to invest in you. It’s not easy and can be stressful. You have to show you can provide the right kind of services and add value to the company to produce a good return on their investment.
A Forbes article, “10 Questions Startups Use To Make Change Happen,” gives great advice for starting a business. The 10 questions are also valuable for job seekers. Job seekers are trying to change their present condition to get a job. By asking even a few of the10 questions and finding the right answers, they can change their jobless position. Here are some of the most important questions for your job search.
1. What’s your “secret sauce?” When McDonalds introduced the Big Mac, everyone wanted to recreate their “secret sauce” that made the sandwich so unique. What is it about you and your background or experience that makes you unique? How have you been able to help your previous employers save time, money or initiate new ideas?
2. Which of your stakeholders can influence your success? Choose your references well. Who can give you the best recommendation and speak to your strengths? Reach out to your references and let them know specifics about the job and how your talents are a good fit. Remind them of projects or accomplishments from your previous job that are worth mentioning during a reference check.
3. What do I need to know before I commit? You should be interviewing your next boss and co-workers. Come with a list. Research the company for reviews, posts by former employees or news stories. Get specifics on benefit plans, eligibility, and any changes that are coming up in the next few months. Who will you be working with, and where is your work station or office? Take a look. The more information you have, the better the decision.
4. How do they measure success? What does it take to be successful in the job and company? Why did the last person in the job leave, or what was the reason he or she was let go? What traits or work habits does your future manager think are important? What’s the most important attribute? How often do you have a performance review? Knowing what it takes to be successful will help you decide whether you are willing to do what it takes.
5. What kind of resources will I need or get? Will you have the latest technology or have to make due with an old desktop PC? Will you have support staff or are you the Lone Ranger, doing everything? Is your boss a micro-manager, or hands-off? Does the department or position have money in the budget for supplies and resources?
Asking questions can be the best customer service you can do for yourself. Don’t assume anything. Just like a startup has to have a comprehensive plan, you need to have a comprehensive job search strategy to make you successful. After all, in a way you’re starting up a new business—You, Inc. Invest in yourself in the start-up phase of your career for long-term growth and success.
Photo Source: Wylio.com
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