Lessons from American Idol for job seekers.

Chris Wodke

http://www.summittrainingpublications.com/

American Idol is one of the most popular programs currently on television. Idol is essentially a job search with contestants competing for a recording contract. There are a few things you can learn from American Idol as you look or a job and to be successful on the job.

• Talent- do you have the talent needed to do the job?  Talent is hard to fake on Idol and we all get a vote. You need talent too and there is a lot of competition out there for open jobs. Check job listings carefully to be sure you have the talent and experience needed. The interview is your place to show if you have the talent needed. (http://www.examiner.com/x-4577-Milwaukee-Unemployment-Examiner~y2009m3d4-Are-You-Ready-to-Interview)
• Self Awareness- it is comical to watch the singers auditioning that obviously lack talent.  If these people had any self awareness they would have to know they can’t sing.  Get honest feedback from others to make sure you self image matches up with your assessment of your talent. You don’t want to be chasing after jobs that are not a good match for your skills. Don’t make the same mistake as the wannabe Idols. Make sure you are ready to interview ) and be successful on the job.
• Image- On Idol they want contestants with the right “look”.  The winner has to be marketable and appealing to sell recordings. Well you need the right image too. You have to dress   and act like a professional. Look like someone that would fit in and act appropriately. What kind of first impression are you making with your resume, in interviews and on the job?
• Diva- Diva’s may make it on Idol but won’t make it in the workplace. Demanding and unhappy employees are a drag on any team. Being difficult to work with could just cost you your job.
• Teamwork- Almost every show features a group routine. The contestants have to blend their voice to sing as a group. They have to learn a dance routine and look good as a group. You also have to use your talents for the good of the group. If you are good you might just get a solo.
• Tough Boss- Idol contestants often get an earful of honest feedback from tough judge Simon Cowell.  Cowell has made many stars and know what works. Any wise contestant would at least give him an honest hearing and act on his feedback. It pays to listen to the feedback of your boss and make adjustments.
• Money- there is a lot of money at stake in the American Idol competition. The producers want a talented winner so they can make money. You will be hired also on your ability to make money for your organization. Be ready to demonstrate how you have saved or earned money for your past employers. Show you have been a winner in the past and will be in the future.
• Genre- The idol competition makes singers sing country, rock etc in a variety of eras. Most singers are best in one style. They have to find the right niche to make the best use of their talent. Danny Gokey from Milwaukee started as a Gospel singer and has now switched to country. Well the culture of companies is the same. You have to find the one that is the best fits. You will be most successful when you are a good fit with the culture and values of an organization. Do your research and ask the right questions in the interview to get a good fit. 
  

We like to watch Idol because it is so entertaining to watch the singer grow and develop. We all have our favorites. Most of the winners improve through listening to feedback, taking action and working really hard. The same is true for your job search.

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