A few years ago, Nathan, my son-on-law, landed a wonderful position with BB&T Bank in Knoxville. He had done a rigorous job search after getting his degree in communications in May. For the bank position he knew he was up against other candidates who had MBAs and previous banking experience. Nathan brought his experience in pushing a lawn mower, stacking Cheerios in a grocery store, and wiping runny noses in a day care. And to top that off he was 24 years old and a new college graduate.
And yet the position was given to him – downtown office, professional associations and promising growth opportunities. Upon asking why he got the
position rather than the other candidates, he was told this by the lady supervisor – Nathan was the only candidate who stood up and shook hands when she walked in for the interview. How interesting!
One more example of how personal skills outweigh GPA, degrees and technical skills every time. A smile, a handshake or a new hair style may do more to secure new opportunities than adding another credential behind your name. And while Nathan was eating caviar at the bank receptions, his “experienced” competitors were likely grabbing a taco and bemoaning the fact that no one is hiring.
