|
Breakthrough Thinking in the Job Search
Process
By Deborah Kintner
While reading the book Breakthrough Thinking: Seven Principles of Creative Problem-Solving, it
occurred to me that the seven principles applied aptly to job search. Below, I have outlined the
seven principles described by Gerald Napler, PhD and Shozo Hibino, PhD, as well as my thoughts on
how they relate to job-hunting.
- The Uniqueness Principle
Although similarities may exist, each problem is unique and needs to be addressed as a
totally new situation. Similarly, each person seeking a new position represents a unique
combination of qualifications, personal traits, and history which will affect the job search
process. Consequently, the position sought and particular actions taken to attain it,
although similar in many ways, will differ somewhat for each person, as well as at different
times in an individual's lifespan. Just because you succeeded in finding employment
previously does not mean you can approach your search in the same fashion this time.
- The Purposes Principle
Effective, creative problem-solving needs to focus on the purpose and larger purposes
stemming from it. That is, rather than looking at the problems, emphasize what you want to
accomplish through your actions, preferably on a long-term, global basis. Such a focus helps
eliminate nonessential aspects, thereby avoiding working on the wrong problem.
For instance, on the surface, the purpose of a job search is to "find a job." However,
rather than stop at that point, proceed to, "What is my purpose in finding a job?" Generally,
the answer would be, "To get money." Again, you would ask the question, "What is my purpose?"
Continue asking this question until you are unable to derive a larger purpose. A resultant
hierarchy of purpose might look like this:
- Get a job
- Get money
- Buy possessions
- Take care of my family
- Enjoy the lifestyle of my desire
- Feel secure and content
This final large purpose helps determine what information you will need and how you will
determine if the solution you create fits the situation.
- The Solution-After-Next Principle
By working backwards from an ideal solution, you may stimulate more creative, effective
thinking toward your current situation. Thus, in considering the types of positions to
pursue now, first envision the career you hope to pursue five or ten years from now. Ask
yourself whether the job you are currently seeking will help you attain that vision. If not,
you may need to look further. Otherwise, you will ultimately feel dissatisfied with the
result.
- The Systems Principle
In developing a solution to a problem, one must consider the larger system to determine what
needs to be incorporated into your plan to resolve your problem. In the case of the
job-seeker, this system generally involves family members, friends, and perhaps, the larger
community. Thus, the question, "How will this decision affect each member of the family,
the family structure, and my general social structure?" must be included as a consideration.
By examining the needs of those around you, you gain greater insight into what types of
positions, responsibilities, hours, and travel obligations are feasible for you.
- The Limited Information Collection Principle
Possibly the most controversial of the principles, this axiom suggests that having too much
information can reduce your ability to see and consider creative alternatives. Excessive
information can narrow a person's mind-set and distract the person from the purpose, blinding
that person to innovative possibilities.
In a job search situation, it becomes easy to focus on one specific industry, amassing
mountains of information about particular companies and what they offer. However, much of
this information remains irrelevant to your central purpose. While you want some data about
the companies with which you hope to work, don't lose sight of the purpose for all this
research. It's not to write a dissertation about the company. It's to obtain a satisfying,
fulfilling position of employment which will support you and your family. If the information
will not assist you in achieving that end, you don't need it.
- The People Design Principle
Anyone involved in helping you implement the solution you create needs to be involved in its
development. In addition, keeping the basic structure of the solution flexible assists the
individuals involved in personalizing the manner of implementing it so that it will satisfy
their needs, as well as attain the proposed goal. Consequently, including family members and
significant others in developing your job search strategies comprises an essential component
of the process. When they feel involved, they will be better able to provide the emotional
and physical support you will need during your search. In addition, they will better
understand the need for reducing demands on your time and energy when they realize the scope
of your activities during this period.
Feel free to delegate some of the work to family members and friends. Feeling included and
working toward a goal together can help strengthen the bonds between yourself and those who
are significant to you.
- The Betterment Timeline Principle
The bridge to a better future is built on a series of purpose-driven solutions. It is
imperative to realize that each situation exists within a greater schema. Problems do not
exist in isolation and the solution will not be your final solution. Consequently, once you
have arrived at one solution, consider the tasks which arise as a result of reaching that
goal. For instance, although your initial purpose involves attaining the employment you
desire, the next step in the process will involve performing well in that position and
possibly gaining promotion from that point. The point is that solving a problem causes other
problems, which is how you continue to progress. If you think you can sit back on your
haunches and simply stay in the position you have found, you are sorely mistaken. Instead,
realize that attaining a position is just one step in a continual process.
The good news is that by applying this process, you can develop highly creative, effective
solutions which propel you toward the purposes you define. It takes time and effort but it's
well worth it. Good luck in your search!
About the author: Deborah
Kintner
|
|
Why Shouldn't We Hire You?
Effective Personal Marketing