A good memory has never been one of my strengths, yet it’s amazing how I can recall details of relatively insignificant events that happened decades ago. It was the early 1980s and I had the good fortune of playing a round of golf with Ken Blanchard. If you don’t recognize the name, he is the author of “The One Minute Manager.” He was a well-known business consultant with international recognition. It was a big deal to rub elbows with such a superstar in my profession.
When we met on the first tee, Ken explained he arrived late the evening before and was tired. I’ve seen him present at national conferences, and the enthusiasm I’d seen on stage was missing. Unfortunately, his lack of energy affected his golf game, and he played poorly for the first four holes. But wait … the best is yet to come.
On the fifth tee Ken announced it was a beautiful day, he was thrilled to be playing with such a great group of guys, and he was going to re-boot his day. And he did it! He was able to change his attitude, his golf improved significantly, and the natural excitement I’d seen on stage was there for the rest of the day. He taught me a lesson that we are in charge of our feelings and we have the choice to see the glass as half-full. Thirty years later, I still draw on that experience when things aren’t going particularly well. I remind myself I have the option to change my attitude and have a positive impact on those around me.
I share this story in many job interviews because it reflects the attitude I try to bring to everything I do. Simply telling people I have a positive attitude isn’t as good as sharing a meaningful experience. Stop for a moment and think about some of the challenges you’ve encountered in your lifetime and what accomplishments you are most proud of.
I have a close friend whose grandfather was injured in the war and spent the remainder of his life in a wheelchair. The hours she spent with her grandfather have helped her develop the empathy and patience to help others. She excels as a trainer, and I’m convinced the time she spent with her grandfather has influenced her success as a trainer. Can you think of personal experiences in your life that may account for the positive attributes that have made you more effective in your job?
It’s important to bring examples of our technical accomplishments, but I also recommend you come prepared to share personal experiences that reflect who you have become. Can you identify experiences that reflect your level of dedication, commitment, confidence, and compassion and maybe even some humility? The best employers are looking for people with positive attitudes, because experience has taught them it’s much easier to teach people skills, than a positive work ethic.
I’ve helped hundreds of people write résumés and the objective is to highlight the candidate’s skills. Once you get past the screening process and have a personal interview, it becomes just as important to convince the employer you have the attributes to be an excellent employee.
Ken Blanchard showed me he brings a positive attitude to everything he does. Whether it’s work or play, he showed me why he has been successful in business and in life. It’s a lesson that has stuck with me for decades.
Bill Kaminski is president of Stone Associates Training. He is an HR consultant with 35 years of experience in the employment field, teaching managers the art of hiring great employees. Bill is also an adjunct instructor at Keuka College. You can contact Bill with questions, suggestions or comments at www.bill@ stoneassociatestraining.com.
