The_Essential_Manager_s_Handbook

MOVING ON / 231

Position Impressive job titles will look good on your résumé and may get

you an interview, but they are no substitute for experience. Discrepancies

are sure to come to light when you are interviewed by your new employer,

so be realistic.

When you apply for a new job, check that the content of the advertised

role matches the title. Is it really going to offer you the experience you

want? For example, the title of Assistant General Manager may sound

great, but in reality, will you be deputizing for the General Manager or

will you be little more than a clerical assistant?

Success Most recruiters are looking for success and may not even

shortlist you for interview if they don’t see evidence of progression

on your résumé. More astute recruiters will want to examine how

you have dealt with difficult and challenging situations. They want

to see if you are someone who learns. To address this requirement,

present yourself through a success story about your past. For example,

compare the two statements below:

• “I was financial controller of a division in North Dakota for three^
  years and every month the books were closed on time.”


• “I led a project to replace the accounting system with new software:^
  it was delivered on time and within the budget.”


• The second statement clearly conveys success, where the^
  first simply describes a role. Showing that you have taken up
  development opportunities and have been successful makes
  your résumé stand out from the crowd.

>> Working toward qualifications

you will need in the future

>>^ Demonstrating progression^

from junior roles to positions

of responsibility

>>^ Seeking out new experiences,^

and actively learning from them

>>^ Using a mentor to help with your

personal development

>>>Focusing only on improving your

technical skills

>>^ Expecting to be promoted purely^

on your impressive qualifications

>>^ Leaving responsibility for your

development to your employer

>>Resenting your lack of promotion

TAKING YOUR CAREER FORWARD

Do’s Don’ts

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