Star Wars: How to Use the Force in Your Job Search
Simply Hired Staff
With Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens opening this week, you’re probably getting excited. We’ve been waiting more than 30 years to see more adventures featuring Luke, Han, Leia, R2-D2 and the rest of the gang! But if you’re considering a job change, or if you’ve already started a job search, finding the job that’s right for you is much more exciting than J.J. Abrams’ new space opera.
But for the Star Wars fan in all of us, here are a few ways you can use the Force to find the perfect job.
The Jedi mind trick
Okay, so maybe “these aren’t the droids you’re looking for” doesn’t work quite the same way for you that it did for Obi-Won. But that’s not to say that you can’t use the Force to help land your next job. All the Jedi mind trick requires is a little extra work on your part. When applying for a job, make sure you note the skills mentioned in the job description and include them in your resume and cover letter. This will help the hiring company’s applicant tracking system understand you ARE the employee it is looking for. Also update your online professional profiles to include those skills.
Enhanced reflexes
An effective job search requires that you stay agile, extremely organized and respond to emails and calls quickly–all while keeping a regular day-to-day life, even possibly another job. Although this doesn’t mean you literally need to stand on your head while balancing Yoda on one of your feet, it can feel that way. Be sure to keep careful records of every correspondence you have with prospective companies, set aside time every day to deal with job search business, stay close to your phone and be diligent about checking your email. Also, don’t forget to reserve some “me” time so you don’t get burned out looking for a job. This way you’ll be in a good mood, stay on top of everything, and respond quickly when needed.
Force vision
“Difficult to see. Always in motion is the future,” Yoda teaches. But during a job search foreseeing the future can be your greatest asset. Although you don’t actually possess Force vision, with a little research during the job search you can enter a job interview and a salary negotiation with some foresight into what will happen.
Before a job interview, spend time researching the company and learn as much as possible about the current state of the organization, possible co-workers and their previous work experience, common job interview questions at the company and so forth. Simply Hired’s Company Directory can assist with this, as can a number of other online services. If you receive a job offer before you enter a salary negotiation, also research salaries, companies and similar positions. This will ensure you ask for the right amount.
Lift objects with your mind
You may not need to use you mind to lift X-wing fighters while looking for a job. But a job search does require some mind over matter. Chances are you’re not going to get hired at the first company you interview with. Maybe not even the second, third, or fourth. Things will transpire while you search that can test your resolve. Ignoring the bad and staying optimistic will be key during these times. Always keep in mind, just like you’re not interested in every job, every company will not be interested in you. It’s nothing personal. So keep at it and stay confident that you’ll find the job for you. Remember, “Do or do not, there is no try.”
