Provisional Blog

Remember that advice your mom gave you when you started at a new school or went on your first date? “Just be yourself,” she likely said. Well, recent research demonstrates that taking this advice can have positive implications for your job search, as well.

About the Research

The data is based on two surveys conducted by organizational psychologists at the London Business School and the University of North Carolina of 146 MBA students and 208 job seekers. In it, researchers asked participants to rate responses to statements such as:

• “It’s important for an employer to see me as I see myself, even if it means bringing people to recognize my limitations;”
• And “I like to be myself rather than trying to act like someone I’m not.”

The research found that those people who were more candid about their strengths and skills – along with their limitations – ended up in jobs they were better suited for.

So What Does This Mean for You in Your Job Search?

As one of the leading employment firms in the Northwest, Provisional knows that these findings may be counter-intuitive to what you have been told in the past: that you need to create a solely positive – and sometimes inaccurate – image in order to land a job. However, doing so can backfire if you get hired and can’t deliver on the skills and abilities you promised during an interview.

That said, you shouldn’t bring up every career failure, mistake, or setback you’ve ever endured. Or worse yet, badmouth a former boss, employer, or colleague. You can be both candid and professional without hurting your chances of getting hired. Just be honest and go with your gut. If the job requires a certain skill and you know you don’t have it, don’t pretend that you do.

Want Some More Tips & Advice for Your Job Search?

Let us know. As one of the leading employment firms in the Northwest, Provisional has been placing professionals with great companies for over 20 years.

Experience the Provisional difference today!