The Truth About Hiring: Why All Hiring Involves Discrimination
As a career coach, I've seen countless job seekers struggle with rejection. Today, I want to share a perspective that might change how you view the hiring process forever. It's a hot take, but hear me out: all hiring involves discrimination. Let me explain what I mean and why understanding this can actually help you in your job search.
The Apple Analogy š
Imagine you have five apples in front of you. They're all roughly the same size and shape, but you can only choose one. How do you decide? Maybe you pick the one that's a little greener, or slightly larger, or has a particular firmness. Whatever your reason, you're discriminating between the apples based on some factor.
Now, replace those apples with job candidates. When employers have multiple qualified candidates, they're essentially comparing apples to apples. But they can only choose one. So they discriminateāthey choose based on subtle factors that set one candidate apart from the others.
It's Not Personal, It's Process
Here's the crucial point: this discrimination isn't about you not being good enough. It doesn't mean you couldn't do the job. It simply means that on that particular day, for that specific role, the employer chose someone with something slightly different than what you offered.
A Critical Distinction: Legal vs. Illegal Discrimination š«
Before we go further, it's crucial to make an important clarification. When I say "all hiring involves discrimination," I am absolutely not referring to or condoning discrimination based on race, age, gender, physical appearance, or any other protected characteristics. That kind of discrimination is not only unethical but also illegal, and it has no place in any hiring process.
What we're discussing here is the legal and necessary process of choosing between qualified candidates based on their skills, experience, and fit for the role. If you ever encounter a company that discriminates based on protected characteristics, remember: that's not a reflection on you, and it's certainly not a place where you'd want to work. Your talents and potential deserve to be recognized in an environment that values diversity and equal opportunity.
For the purposes of this discussion, let's focus on the legal and inevitable process of selection that occurs in every hiring decision.
The Danger of Taking Rejection Personally
Many job seekers make the mistake of taking every rejection personally. They pile these rejections on themselves like rocks, creating a heavy burden of self-doubt. This leads to job search burnout, making each subsequent interview harder as you carry that emotional baggage with you.
Know Your Value š
Instead of internalizing rejection, focus on knowing your own value. At Work It DAILY, we call this your UVAāyour Unique Value Add. When you understand your UVA, you can effectively market yourself to the right employers.
Stay in the Game
Remember, job searching is a numbers game. If you stay persistent and keep putting yourself out there, eventually you will be the "apple" that gets picked. And on that day, there will be other qualified candidates who don't get chosenānot because they're not good enough, but because you were the best fit for that particular opportunity.
The Importance of Community and Coaching š
Navigating this competitive job market is challenging, especially if you're going it alone. That's why it's crucial to surround yourself with a supportive community of like-minded individuals who understand what you're going through.
Additionally, working with career coaches can provide you with the tools and strategies to gain a competitive advantage. They can help you articulate your UVA, improve your interviewing skills, and teach you how to stand out in a crowded field of candidates.
Embrace the Process
Understanding that hiring involves discrimination can actually be liberating. It takes the personal sting out of rejection and helps you see the process for what it isāa complex decision influenced by numerous factors, many of which are outside your control.
Your job is not to be the perfect candidate for every position. Your job is to be the best version of yourself, to clearly communicate your value, and to find the right fit where your unique qualities are exactly what an employer is looking for.
Take Action Today š
If you've made it this far, you know it's time to stop beating yourself up over rejections and start taking proactive steps to enhance your job search. That's why I'm inviting you to try Work It DAILY's free 7-day trial. Join me and my team as we provide you with the courses, coaching, and community you need to stand out and get picked in your next job application.
Remember, there's nothing wrong with you. With the right support and strategies, you will get picked. So why not start today? Check out our free trial and take the first step towards landing your dream job. You've got this!
Go get āem!
J.T. OāDonnell
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