As I sat down this morning to ponder what I wanted to share with you in this week’s blog, I suddenly was reminded of the power and the necessity of “Authenticity” in how you “SHOW UP” in the world.
One of my favourite authors is Brene Brown. She’s written several books like “The Gifts of Imperfection”, “The Power of Vulnerability”, “Daring Greatly”, “Braving the Wilderness”, “You Are Your Best Thing”, “Rising Strong”, “Dare to Lead” and others.
Brene defines authenticity perfectly: “Authenticity is a collection of choices that we have to make every day. It’s about the choice to show up and be real. The choice to be honest. The choice to let our true selves be seen.
I started asking myself questions about authenticity and what that would look like when applying for jobs, writing my resume, and being interviewed.
In a world where we are constantly bombarded with images of perfection, it’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that we need to look, sound, and act a certain way to succeed, especially when applying for jobs or attending interviews. We’re so careful and meticulous in crafting our resumes, rehearsing our elevator pitches, and carefully selecting our outfits, all in the hope of projecting the “perfect” image. But what if this pursuit of perfection is actually holding us back? What if, instead, we embraced our authentic selves, letting go of the facade and allowing our true qualities to shine through?
The Perfection Trap
The pressure to conform to an idealized version of yourself can be overwhelming. Social media, professional networking sites, and even well-meaning advice from peers and mentors can create a sense of inadequacy. We start to believe that we must fit a particular mold to be considered for a job or to perform well in an interview. But this perfectionist mindset can lead to stress, anxiety, and a lack of confidence.
When you focus too much on trying to be what you think employers want, you risk losing sight of who you truly are. This can result in presenting a version of yourself that is not entirely genuine, which can be exhausting to maintain and may ultimately do more harm than good. Employers are increasingly valuing authenticity, and they can often tell when a candidate is not being genuine.
The Power of Authenticity 
Being authentic means being true to yourself, embracing your unique qualities, and confidently presenting them to the world. Authenticity is about acknowledging your strengths and weaknesses, your experiences, and your values. It’s about showing up as you are, not as who you think you should be.
In the context of job applications and interviews, authenticity can be your greatest asset. Here’s why:
- Authenticity Builds Trust: When you are authentic, you are more likely to build trust with potential employers. They appreciate candidates who are honest about their skills, experiences, and aspirations. Trust is the foundation of any successful working relationship, and being authentic from the outset sets the tone for a positive and transparent interaction.
- Authenticity Sets You Apart: In a competitive job market, standing out can be challenging. While others may try to conform to a perceived standard of perfection, your authenticity can differentiate you. Your unique perspective, experiences, and personality are your most valuable assets. By being yourself, you offer something that no one else can.
- Authenticity Leads to Better Fits: When you are true to yourself during the application and interview process, you are more likely to find a job and a company that aligns with your values and goals. This alignment leads to greater job satisfaction, engagement, and long-term success.
How to Be Authentic in Your Job Search
- Reflect on Your Values and Goals: Take the time to understand what is truly important to you. What are your core values? What are your career goals? Knowing these will help you align your job search with opportunities that resonate with your authentic self.
- Embrace Your Story: Your journey, with all its ups and downs, is what makes you unique. Don’t shy away from sharing your experiences, even if they don’t fit into the traditional narrative of success. Employers value resilience, adaptability, and the lessons learned from challenges.
- Be Honest About Your Strengths and Weaknesses: No one is perfect, and pretending to be can be counterproductive. Be open about what you excel at and where you have room to grow. This honesty shows self-awareness and a willingness to learn.
- Practice Self-Compassion: Let go of the need to be perfect. Practice self-compassion and remind yourself that it’s okay to make mistakes. What’s important is how you respond and grow from those experiences.
- Prepare, But Don’t Over-Prepare: While it’s essential to be prepared for an interview, avoid over-rehearsing to the point where your responses feel scripted. Allow yourself to be present in the moment and engage in a genuine conversation with your interviewer.
- Ask Meaningful Questions: Show your interest in the role and the company by asking questions that reflect your values and goals. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you determine if the company is the right fit for you.
Conclusion
Letting go of the need to be perfect can be liberating. It allows you to focus on what truly matters—being yourself. When you embrace authenticity in your job search, you not only increase your chances of finding the right job, but you also pave the way for a more fulfilling and successful career. So, the next time you’re preparing for a job application or an interview, remember to set aside the mask of perfection and let your authentic self shine through. The right opportunity will come to those who are true to themselves.
In closing, I want to encourage YOU to “BE AUTHENTIC EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY” because there’s no other person in the world who is like you and who can do what you can, how you do it. BE YOU!”
Saad secured a Senior Test Analyst role after only 6 weeks! Check out his sharing below.
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