There are some common job search traps that even the most seasoned executives fall into. Recognizing these pitfalls and understanding how to avoid them will give you an edge in searching for and landing your next great opportunity.

1. Executive Transition – Attitude Overview & Checklist
Top 10 Mistakes Executives Make When Searching for a Job
#10 Not having the right attitude.
Overview
Attitude is a choice. You've heard it before - attitude is everything. Individuals with the right
attitude will succeed in their careers. The same holds true for job hunters. Approaching your
job search with the wrong attitude is bound to affect your success. Although the hiring
process can be tedious, remember that nothing great was ever accomplished without effort.
Genuine enthusiasm and a positive disposition go a long way in demonstrating to potential
employers that you are serious about working for their company. Sometimes it's not the
best qualified who succeed in getting the job - it's the person with the right attitude. Let go
of anything that's happened in the past and start with a fresh, positive outlook. Pay
particular attention to your verbal and body language – both speak volumes about your
attitude. Whether you want to approach things from a positive or negative perspective is up
to you. It’s your attitude – own it.
Coaching
Searching for a job can be stressful and frustrating, particularly in adverse market
conditions. The process has its ups and downs, no doubt. Don't expect to be perpetually
positive; it's not realistic. Moderate mood fluctuations are normal. However, cultivating a
good attitude will help you focus on what’s important and steer you toward success. First,
focus on the nature of your language when expressing your thoughts. If you say things like
“’it’s impossible to find a job,” and “I don’t have the right qualifications,” consider another
approach. How about “it is possible to find a job, as long as I put in the time and effort,”
and “I will acquire the right qualifications for the job I want.” Being organized, making a
plan, surrounding yourself with positive, helpful and successful people, committing to self-
improvement and taking action are all ways to keep your attitude in check during a job
search. Taking personal responsibility for your attitude will keep you motivated and project
the right image of you to others. If you need an attitude adjustment, get coaching on that
right away. Success will follow more readily with the right attitude.
Dos & Don’ts
 Make requests rather than demands and be polite in all your interactions. This signals a
positive, congenial attitude, encouraging and empowering people to help you.
 Don’t complain - this signals a negative attitude. Resolve to change important things
that over which you have control, and let go of things that don’t matter.
© 2011 Bill Holland All Rights Reserved