There are job lessons job seekers have learned from being “caught” and not “taught.” Job search strategy comes from experience or from those who are experienced. To watch and learn is one thing, but “think and listen” is harder. It’s tough. But when it gets tougher you listen to anyone.
My dad is 91. He is clueless about the job search of 2012. But he knows the nature of people, and understands that never changes. I need that perspective, and you do too:
1. Patience and steadfastness
Mature people come from generations that taught “good things come to those who wait.” This remains true in today’s job market. Hiring processes are longer than ever, so any job seeker must be prepared to wait patiently without quitting.
2. Understand the big story
The kid that always asks “why” in class is usually the smartest kid in the class. He or she wants to understand the big picture. It just seems annoying to the people who don’t care to know. That is why mature people ask young people a lot of annoying questions. That’s why toddlers ask grown ups many questions.
3. Mature people are witnesses
Although the job market has changed, and the workplace has evolved, the nature of people remain the same. Mature people have seen the world change, and understand how we got to this stage in our culture, environment, and economy.
4. Mature people value time and timeliness
Being on time means as much now than it did 30 years ago. But mature people also understand that everything good comes in time. Timeliness is making sure that you have facts and presenting it when it’s asked for or needed. They won’t waste your time, nor like their time wasted.
5. Respect is offered to everyone as earned by anyone
Job seekers who treat everyone with respect despite mistreatment will stand out. Most mature adults will tell you that is the biggest difference between young adults of yesterday and today’s young job seekers in general. Respect is still the attribute that everyone desires. Why not be the first to give it.
We didn’t talk about how mature adults are better judges of character. Their advice can only help your job search. Give them a listen.
What advice has helped you from those older than you? Let me know in the comments.
About Mark Anthony Dyson
I am the "The Voice of Job Seekers!" I offer compassionate career and job search advice as I hack and re-imagine the job search process. You need to be "the prescription to an employer's job description." You must be solution-oriented and work in positions in companies where you are the remedy. Your job search must be a lifestyle, and your career must be in front of you constantly. You can no longer shed your aspirations at the change seasons. There are strengths you have that need constant use and development. Be sure you sign up to download my E-Book, "421 Modern Job Search Tips 2021!" You can find my career advice and work in media outlets such as Forbes, Inc., Fast Company, Harvard Business Review, Glassdoor, and many other outlets.