3 Tips for Values-Based Job Hunting

The best job is one where your values and the values of your company align. You’ll be more content, comfortable and successful in a place where your character is appreciated. But, finding such a position isn’t always a piece of cake. Here are three tips for values-based job hunting.

1. Communicate Your Values on Your Resume

The first step takes place before you’re even asked for an interview. I’ve come to find that many people have one static resume they use for every interview. This is a huge mistake because not all of your past experience may be relevant to the potential position or the company. Always tweak your resume to communicate your values and experiences that align with the company’s values. This not only says to the potential employer that you have done your research on the company, which is key, but that you’re a good fit for the position.

2. Demonstrate How Your Values Are an Asset

You’ve made it to the interview process, what now? How do you sell the hiring manager on why you’re the person for the job? This is where you demonstrate what your resume says. It’s essential for the hiring manager to understand how your character and values have benefitted your previous employers. Explain past scenarios and situations where you showed leadership and success due to your convictions. Since you’ve completed the precursor steps of aligning your resume with the values of the company this will help you stand out as a much more qualified candidate.

3. Ask Questions About the Company’s Values

Lastly, always remember you are interviewing the company just as much as the company is interviewing you. Ask questions about the company’s values and what type of person they’re looking for in the position. This not only shows preparation for the interview but that you take the opportunity seriously and want to be sure it is a good fit for you just as much as it is for them. You can save yourself (and them) the frustration of ending up in a position that doesn’t fit with your work ethic and what you think is most important.

Finding a good job is a matter of knowing what you stand for, communicating it, and doing some research to make sure a prospect is a good match. Putting these tips into practice will help when navigating through multiple opportunities and allow you to take an ethics first approach to job hunting.

– Ron Taylor
Student Programs and Development Specialist, NASBA Center for the Public Trust