Seek to be an Employee but Think Like the Self-Employed

Would your job search be different if you thought of yourself as self-employed?  I often talk with job seekers who perceive employers as having the upper hand and holding the power in the employer-employee relationship.  These job seekers seem to think they have to convince the employer they are worthy of being hired.  They are not nearly as discriminating about the employers they will work for as the employers are about whom they will hire.  When it comes to salary, they tend to think more in terms of getting as close to their previous salary as possible rather than thinking in terms of their market value.

So, how does the mindset of these employees differ from the mindset of someone who is self-employed?  Here are a few descriptors of those that tend to think of themselves as employees:

1.    They are applying for jobs they aren’t sure they’re qualified for but think they could learn if given the chance.  Or they are applying for jobs they know they are overqualified for.  They have thoughts, such as, I could do that or That would be an okay job.

2.    They aren’t familiar with the industry but are willing to learn it if they are hired.

3.    They need a job and/or benefits.  Although they won’t accept just anything, they aren’t too concerned about the specifics of the job and the company.

Here are some descriptors of someone who is self-employed:

1.    They know their qualifications and the benefits they have to offer their clients.  They have to know or their clients won’t buy.

2.    Even if they don’t know their clients’ industry, they know their clients’ needs and can clearly articulate how their skills and talents will fit and meet those needs regardless of the industry.

3.    They stay at the top of their game and seek out clients who will value their contributions.

Employment is – or at least should be – a partnership.  Employment is an exchange of value.  The employee contributes a service in exchange for pay.  The employer needs a high performing, reliable employee as much as the employee needs a salary and benefits.  Both parties have a lot at stake.

I encourage all employees to adopt the mindset of the self-employed.  Know and be confident in your abilities and the value you have to offer.  Know how your skills, talents, and experience will benefit the employer and be ready to tell them.  Choose your employer wisely, make sure they are worthy of your time, dedication, and hard work.

If you approach your job search with the mindset of someone who is self-employed, your résumé and cover letter will become marketing materials describing the benefits of your services for your potential client (the employer).  Your interviews become exchanges of information between equals looking for the right fit.  Your salary negotiation becomes a discussion about your true market value and return on investment.

Approach employers as a potential business partner.  Come to the table fully prepared to meet the employer’s needs and know what your services are worth.  This will accomplish a win-win situation for you both and a much happier future career.

Tags: career coach, employers, Interviews, Job search, Job seekers, strengths, value proposition

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