Who didn't love hearing or telling a good story when they were a child? Yet, when we become adults, many of us often forget the value of storytelling in our lives. With respect to the job search, in particular, relatively little is written about the importance of storytelling. At GSPM we work with students and alumni to continue to develop their personal and professional stories throughout their careers.
What does storytelling have to do with looking for a job? Telling one's story is and part of any job search. Successful candidates can use storytelling in several vehicles: cover letters, resumes, interviews, elevator pitches, Linkedin, and other social media outlets. We advise our GSPM community to start with the skills and/or messages they want to convey and to define their goals. It is important to always think of one's audience. A story that works for one audience may not be suitable for another, so it is always important to do one's research. A job seeker should have multiple anecdotes to convey to show one's qualifications for a particular job opening. Show, don't just tell, by using all five senses.
Developing Your Story
1. Know your audience - What works for one audience may not work for another. Research an employer's needs and develop multiple anecdotes about how you can handle situations.
2. Be able to tell the story in two minutes or less. People have short attention spans.
3. Let your audience know you are telling a story and why you are telling it.
4. Seize every storytelling opportunity through your cover letter, resume, Linkedin, etc.
5. Be vulnerable - People love authenticity and humor. You don't need to be the hero of every story. Just show people you can get the job done.
6. Choose the right story - Tell a story that addresses an organization's needs. Use examples that exemplify your skills.
7. Practice, practice, practice - Be ready to tell your story in writing and verbally. People can't help but love a good story.
Some people are natural storytellers. My Irish grandfather was born to spin a tale, he was a natural raconteur. He headed a business and worked with others to help them to tell their own stories and to achieve career success. We at the GSPM want our folks to craft their best stories to help land and enjoy great job opportunities.
Margaret “Mag” Gottlieb is the Career Director at the Graduate School of Political Management at the George Washington University. Connect with Mag on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaret-gottlieb-1457753/ or contact via email: mag@gwu.edu
