Have this and you won’t struggle to land a job again

Whether you are searching for your first job, looking to switch careers, aiming to grow within your current role, or climbing the corporate ladder, recommendations can play a crucial role in your career trajectory. Unlike cold calling or blindly applying to job postings, having someone vouch for you can significantly increase your chances of landing the job you desire. This blog post will explore why recommendations are so impactful and share insights from my own experience on how they have shaped my career.

Why Recommendations Matter

1. Credibility and Trust: When someone within an organization or industry recommends you, it adds an element of trust and credibility to your application. Employers are more likely to consider a candidate who comes with a personal endorsement from a trusted source.
2. Access to Opportunities: Recommendations often provide access to job opportunities that may not be advertised publicly. Many positions are filled through internal networks and referrals before they even reach the job boards.
3. Standing Out from the Crowd: In a competitive job market, a recommendation can help you stand out among hundreds or even thousands of applicants. It serves as a distinguishing factor that can push your application to the top of the pile.
4. Insight into Company Culture: A recommendation from someone within the organization can give you a better understanding of the company culture and what the employer is looking for in a candidate. This insider knowledge can help you tailor your application and interview responses to better align with the company’s values and needs.

My Experience with Recommendations

Let me share my personal journey to illustrate the power of recommendations.

First Job: A Decade of Growth

I landed my first official job, where I completed my national service and worked for over a decade, through a recommendation. During my university years, I was actively involved in an association focused on social enterprises aimed at improving the economic well-being of various target groups, such as head potters (popularly known as Kayaye), wood carvers, and food vendors. As a member, and later as the president, I honed invaluable skills in public speaking, presentation, fundraising, negotiation, leadership, and teamwork. We even hosted the first investment fair on campus, in collaboration with a popular investment company, where many students made their first investments.

One of our key supporters was a business advisory board member who provided us with guidance and training. He was impressed with our work, especially when our association placed second in a national competition. As we neared the end of our university education, a financial institution was being established by his acquaintances. He recommended that I apply for a position in their Accra office, which I initially declined. However, he later suggested I apply for a position in their Kumasi office, which I did, along with a colleague. We both got the job, and I remained with the company for over a decade.

Second Job: Expanding Horizons

My second job transition was also facilitated by recommendations from colleagues. They recognized that I could satisfactorily fill a position being advertised by someone in another organization. Although I did not personally know the individual at the new company, my recommendation made it easier to get the job when I submitted my CV and attended interviews at three different levels, the last of which was with the Managing Director (MD). All were satisfied with my performance and offered me the position.

When I was recommend to this person in the new organization, I was handed over to the Human Resource team for the initial interview. Despite concerns about my appearance, they HR team was assured of my capabilities. This feedback helped me better prepare for subsequent interviews, which I successfully passed. I was going to work directly with this person, who was sure I was the one needed to unlock value in the role to be filled.

In my previous role, I had managed a loan product targeting government employees, growing the portfolio from 2 million to over 60 million while managing over 300 sales representatives across the country. I implemented various strategies that contributed to this growth while maintaining a healthy non-performing loans ratio. Despite occasional disagreements with the compliance and audit staff, who recommended me for the new position, we maintained a professional relationship.

When a larger company needed someone to build a similar product, I was recommended to apply. Initially hesitant, especially after receiving a salary increment and grade promotion at my current job, I eventually decided to move on. This decision opened a whole new chapter in my life, proving to be one of the best career moves I ever made.

Lessons for Securing Recommendations

From these experiences, here are some key lessons that can help you secure recommendations for your own career advancement:

1. Build Relationships: Cultivate strong relationships with mentors, advisors, and professionals in your field. Participate actively in professional associations and community groups.
2. Showcase Your Skills: Take every opportunity to demonstrate your skills and competencies. Volunteer for projects, take on leadership roles, and contribute meaningfully to team efforts.
3. Maintain Professionalism: Always exhibit a strong work ethic, reliability, and professionalism. Your reputation is built over time through consistent behavior. Do not take disagreement over work matters personal such that it affects your relationship with your colleagues. Remember that we all came to do our job.
4. Seek Feedback and Improve: Be open to feedback and use it to improve your performance. Show your willingness to learn and grow.
5. Express Your Career Goals: Communicate your career aspirations to your mentors and network. When they understand your goals, they can better recommend opportunities that align with your ambitions.

Conclusion

Recommendations can be a powerful tool in your career development. By building strong relationships, showcasing your skills, maintaining professionalism, seeking feedback, and clearly expressing your career goals, you can position yourself to receive valuable recommendations. These endorsements can open doors to new opportunities and help you advance in your career. Reflect on your own experiences and connections, and take steps today to secure the recommendations that will help you achieve your career goals tomorrow.

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