There is a big difference between needing a job and wanting one. The majority of people need steady employment for money, stability and (in many cases) health benefits. But they want jobs that will make them happy.
Of course, when it comes to employment, happiness has various definitions: Upward mobility. Interactions with people. Status. Greater income potential. Exploration into a new field. But everyone seems to lean in the same direction: You need a job (any old job) for the money, but want a specific position to fuel your passions, boost your finances and bring joy to your life.
Remember this: Hiring managers know the difference between money-hungry (needy) candidates and those who are interested in a certain opportunity. The employer's choice is simple. They hire people who genuinely want to join their teams.
This basic hiring strategy applies to job hunters at all levels. All you have to do is show the employer that you want -- really want -- a particular job with the company, and you'll rise to the top of the candidate pool.
Here is an example: A recent graduate interviews for a job at a local sandwich shop. When the manager asks why he applied for the position, he shrugs and says, "For the paycheck."
The next day, a new candidate interviews with the same manager, and answers the question in this way, "I made lunch for my little brother every day for the past three months. I'm good at making sandwiches, so this seems like a perfect summer job."
The second applicant easily differentiates himself. How? By showing that he thought about the position before applying for the job. He provides an optimistic, friendly and direct response.
Let's translate this example to executive job searching. Even at the senior level, you will likely come across a "why do you want this job?" question during your interviews. Here is a generic response, "I believe that my background fits with a lot of industries, and my diplomatic leadership style tends to organize and inspire cross-functional teams.
By expressing a genuine desire for the position or field, the candidate would have greater success, "I have been looking for an opportunity to transition from the technology industry to higher education administration. I know it sounds like a major change, but to me, this is a logical next step. I am passionate about education, which is why I pursued an advanced degree."
The second response is slightly more personal. The job hunter took the time to evaluate the opportunity, and sincerely wants to join the leadership team of this organization.
