We tend to think of grit as the highest of benevolent traits. People who finish marathons even after they’ve broken a bone, that kind of thing.
But as Annie Duke, former professional poker player, puts it, in a lot of arenas (like poker), “knowing when to quit is a survival skill that separates elite players from the rest of the pack.”
Staying way too long in a bad job or career is a good example. A lot of people had this epiphany during the pandemic, when we collectively realized that life is short and you shouldn’t stay in a job that feels like it might be killing you!
In this month’s newsletter, we’re witnessing a mass job switch among female leaders, the right research to conduct before you interview and one delicious perspective on networking format. Read on.
Female Leaders Are Switching Jobs Faster than Ever
More than 10% of female leaders changed jobs or left their jobs altogether last year. Phew!
Women in senior leadership are leaving their jobs in the highest numbers in at least 5 years, according to McKinsey. It doesn’t take a lot of imagination to guess why women would be switching jobs in a “candidate’s market.” Women are STILL making less than men, on average, and they simultaneously still own the majority of childcare duties, statistically.
McKinsey’s study also found that women feel more burnt out than men, more often see their work credited to another (male) colleague, and frequently get mistaken for junior colleagues.
The Right Research Before You Interview
Ready for your next job interview? You’ve done your research right? I assume you’re on it! But just in case, here are the 3 things you really must research before you step or Zoom into an interview…
Who is interviewing you — whether it’s one person or multiple people, try to get their names in advance so you can at least check out their LinkedIn profiles and get a sense of them on Twitter.
Company leadership — even if you’re not being interviewed by the founder or anyone in the C-suite, know who they are.
Who are the clients or customers — already being tuned into the business is gold-star worthy in an interview.
Working with a recruiter is a great way to get the Cliff Notes on a company before you head into the interview. When recruiters like myself and the others here at Johnson Recruiting Group set up an interview, we get all the information on who will be conducting the interview and what you need to know to be prepared.
Are You a Bagel or a Croissant? 🥯🥐
At networking events, there are two types of people: bagels and croissants.
Bagels are those who cluster around in a tight little circle, seemingly letting no one else in. Croissants are the people who stand in a more open, inviting arrangement where others can easily join.
Which sounds better for networking?
It’s a cute analogy (and not mine) that gets a the spirit of networking: It’s all about having a spirit of openness. Networking is a fantastic way to find your next new role, and so is working with a recruiter. As a recruiter for 12+ years, I’d love to talk to you about your ambitions and ideas.
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If you’re ready to move on, as a Executive Recruiter, I’m here to help you find a better fit. Contact me today to get started on your job search.
James Johnson
Quantum Hires