A few years ago I wrote a series of articles for job seekers based on The Art of War by Sun Tzu. There have been numerous analogies comparing warfare to business practices, but this week, prompted by a NY Times Op-Ed piece, my colleagues and I engaged in a dialog about whether or not the perceived “skills gap” is a reality and how the “war for talent” is progressing for the long term unemployed. I have long been of the opinion that the so-called gap in skills is based on myth rather than actual research. The resulting war for talent is often a rationalization of the reality that it is sometimes tough to find the right talent or skills for a job. Get over yourselves! It this were easy anybody could do it, so step up to the plate and be a professional.Â
To job seekers, don’t even enter this debate without considering the risk of sounding like you are making excuses for your lack of accomplishment. If it isn’t a war, treat it as if it is an all or nothing battle or you will never win. The best defense is a good offense and not a pile of lame reasons why you can’t do it. Yes it’s hard to find a job. If it were easy anybody could do it, so step up to the mound and pitch your best.Â
How do we tackle the problem of the long term unemployed? Discussions on this topic are often laced with politics and that only serves to polarize the issue and keep solutions from surfacing. It is not about government. It is not about business. It is not about job seekers. It is a partnership of all three looking without prejudice at alternatives and doing something.
Job seekers, prepare yourself for battle!Â
- The Art of War for Job Search (Part 1)
- The Art of War for Job Search (Part 2)
- The Art of War for Job Search (Part 3)