Your job search could be in deep trouble … and you may not even know it. All because you’re sending a negative meta-message.
A meta-what, you ask?
The term “meta message” is a marketing concept referring to the overall impression you give when communicating with others. It’s the “vibe” that extends beyond (meta) what you say (your message).
Here’s an example.
You’re sitting across from a prospective employer during a job interview. You say: “I’m really eager to be a part of your company, Mr. Jones. My five years of experience and training give me the tools to succeed as a Sales Rep for you.”
On the face of it, that sounds like a convincing message.
But if you’re saying this with spinach in your teeth, a razor cut on your chin and wearing socks that don’t match, here’s your META MESSAGE: “I’m not really that eager to join your company because I couldn’t find time to groom myself properly. If you let me anywhere near your clients, you’ll be making a big mistake.”
That’s just one example of how a botched meta message can ruin an otherwise favorable impression. To avoid this and keep your career on track, it’s crucial that you carefully analyze every part of your job search campaign.
Here’s a short list of areas to focus on, based on my experience helping nearly 3,000 clients since 1996.
Resume.
Make sure yours is concise, clear and convincing. Use high-quality stationery to present the best possible meta message here. I recommend laser printing your resume on ivory-colored paper, too.
E-mail address.
The address you use on your resume must look professional. If your current handle is “iluvbeer@party-time.com,” consider changing it to “SMJohnson@hotmail.com,” or something similar.
Answering machine.
Make sure your outgoing message is brief and to the point. That means no laughing, loud music or dogs barking in the background. (Unfortunately, I’ve heard each of these on clients’ messages.)
Personal grooming.
Comb your hair neatly every day, to prepare for that one day when it has to be perfect. Clean and press your clothes, too. And never eat spinach salad before a job interview ….
LinkedIn Profile
LinkedIn is a professional business network. Treat it like that. I put personal stuff on Facebook and business stuff on LinkedIn. I keep them very separate.
Facebook, Twitter, etc. If you have a facebook profile – don’t put junk on it. No employer wants to see pictures of you puking or hearing about the latest drug fad you are into. Think about what looking on Facebook will tell them about your personality. Use Facebook and twitter to help get you the job – not lose it. Assume every employer is going to search for you there.
Action Step: Your meta message speaks volumes about you. Make sure yours says: “Hire me. You won’t be sorry.”
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This job hunting post was adapted from content provided to by my good friends Kevin Donlin and David Perry, co-creators of the Guerrilla Job Search System.
Kevin and David have been interviewed by CNN, New York Times, Fortune magazine, and the Christian Science Monitor about their method to finding a job.
Get a free audio from Kevin and David on how to get your job search into high gear
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