Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared on FlexJobs.com.
Have you ever seen a job description or an advertisement that seemed to speak directly to you? Something that made you think, “How did they know that? Were they in my house watching me struggle? Yes! I need that!”
You were the target audience!
So, what’s that got to do with your job search? Well, you might not immediately see the correlation, but as a job seeker, you’re marketing yourself and your services.
You’ll find more success if you look at job searching through that lens and understand the needs of your target audience — the hiring manager — rather than focusing solely on your own needs.
Focusing on a hiring manager’s needs is an excellent way to gain a competitive edge in your job search.
And we’re not talking about just looking at the posted job requirements but diving deeper into the immediate challenges, long-term goals, and specific dynamics the hiring manager focuses on.
How To Uncover a Hiring Manager’s Needs
Before reaching the interview stage, set yourself up for success with some research and analysis.
Then, carry that research into the conversation. You’ll be better able to demonstrate that you are the solution the hiring manager seeks.
1. Conduct Thorough Company Research
Do you want to look like a casual applicant willing to take any job or someone dedicated to this specific position at this company? You’re likely pointing to the second option, which is terrific.
Why? Well, that’s one of a hiring manager’s most essential needs. They need to find a good hire and avoid posting the same job ad again in a few months.
The time and effort you put into research can make all the difference in how you present yourself. This is one way to communicate that you’re eager to find an excellent career fit, rather than accepting the first role that comes along.
Start by exploring the company’s mission, vision, culture, and recent developments. You’ll find insights into what the company and the hiring manager need in a future employee. For example, did the company recently release a statement about focusing on sustainability? If you value the same, that’s a signal that you can build longevity there.
It would be best to research beyond the company’s website to analyze its ongoing projects, press releases, and social media. If you can speak knowledgeably about these things, you’ll better convey your interest in a long-term relationship.
2. Analyze the Job Description Carefully
Job descriptions are a wealth of information — if you know how to decode them. Look for repeated themes or keywords. These often hint at crucial areas where the hiring manager needs a strong performer.
Don’t just skim through the job requirements; dive deeper and remember that, even though HR likely smoothed this out, it still communicates the hiring manager’s needs.
For instance, if “leadership skills” are mentioned repeatedly, it’s clear the hiring manager is looking for someone capable of taking the lead on projects or within the team.
Also, pay attention to the “nice to have” skills. These could provide insights into future projects or plans for the role.
And tailoring your responses to highlight these skills can help the hiring manager picture you in the role.
3. Network With Current or Former Employees
What’s a day in the life like in this role?
Connect with current or former employees on platforms like LinkedIn to get your answer. You can get an inside scoop on the company culture, the role’s day-to-day responsibilities, and even tips on the company’s interview process.
Their perspective can help you understand the unspoken culture or expectations not listed in the job description.
But ensure that you approach this strategy respectfully. Always express gratitude for their time and insights, and don’t press them for information or put them in an uncomfortable situation.
4. Reflect on the Hiring Process
Often overlooked, the hiring process can also give you insight into the hiring manager’s needs and work style. For example, the structure of interviews can give you clues about what the hiring manager values.
For instance, a structured, formal interview may suggest that the hiring manager prefers a more traditional, corporate candidate. On the other hand, a casual, conversational interview could indicate more focus on cultural fit.
Similarly, the questions asked during an interview can hint at the qualities they seek.
Are they asking many questions about teamwork, or are they more focused on your achievements? Do they seem more interested in your technical skills or your problem-solving abilities?
5. Incorporate Thoughtful Questions Throughout the Interview
Once you head into the interview, put all that research to work. If you tend to reiterate what’s on your resume, try to update your approach. Instead, treat your interview as an opportunity to create a dialogue with the hiring manager.
Rather than waiting for the end to ask questions, prepare a list of questions that you can naturally weave into the conversation.
But make sure your questions aren’t quickly answered by looking through the website or social media. Instead, ask targeted questions about the hiring manager’s daily challenges.
For instance, you could ask questions like:
- Could you share a bit more about the current challenges this department faces?
- What has been the team’s most significant accomplishment in the past year?
6. Inquire About Urgent Objectives
Hiring managers are looking for problem-solvers, and they often need problems solved quickly. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to understand their priorities ahead of time.
So, during the interview, you might try asking about this directly. You can ask, “What is the immediate need or most pressing objective for this role in the coming months?”
By addressing this directly, you can connect the dots on how your experience aligns with the hiring manager’s objectives.
Suddenly, not only can you meet their needs, but you can do it quickly if you’re brought on board.
7. Ask About Upcoming Changes
Try to find out if the role is vacated due to recent turnover or if growth is on the horizon. For instance, there may be updates to the department or deliverables.
Consider asking, “Are there any significant changes or projects on the horizon for this team or department?”
The hiring manager will appreciate your forward-thinking and interest in the company’s future.
8. Determine How the Hiring Manager Defines Performance
Understanding which traits the hiring manager looks for outside of daily performance can help you align yourself with their needs. Consider asking the hiring manager to share an example of someone who excelled in the role.
Frame your question like this: “Could you describe someone who previously held this position and did exceptionally well? What specific achievements or qualities set them apart?”
Their answer will provide significant insight into the skills, behaviors, and achievements they value most.
For example, if they mention that a previous employee was excellent at collaborating with other departments, you’ll know that strong interpersonal skills are highly valued.
Or, if they mention someone great at problem-solving during unexpected situations, you’ll understand the importance of resilience and adaptability in the role.
Strategizing Your Job Search
Once you uncover a hiring manager’s needs, you can present yourself in a way that has them saying, “Oh my gosh! That’s exactly what I need to fill this position!”
With some research and targeted questions, you can set yourself apart from the competition as the ideal solution.
