Rabbits are often wrongly portrayed as cute, lovable little creatures to the majority of the human population. This is no surprise, due to their features as stars of some of our favorite childhood tales–Peter Cotton Tail and Bugs Bunny. But all imaginary characteristics aside, rabbits are actually very tough, highly intelligent, and emotional animals.
These unique creatures are master survivalists, showcasing a variety of traits that relate to their exceptional ability to adapt and evolve. The art of survival and overall adaptability is crucial to your success in the search for employment. This makes the quirks of a rabbit translate into some exceptional job search lessons.
Here are five job search tactics inspired by a rabbit very close to my heart:
1. Increase awareness. Rabbits are known for their large ears–a crucial piece in their mastery of survival. While small, a rabbit’s acute sense of hearing makes for an amazing sense of awareness. All job seekers could certainly take a lesson from this animal’s grasp of its surroundings.
During the job search, there are many times where awareness is key to survival. This may be when it comes to scouring the Web for job listings, staying in tune with your industry, figuring out who to network with or knowing when it’s time to stop talking during an interview. While you may not have large ears, there’s is no reason you shouldn’t be continually listening.
2. Fend off competition. Small but mighty, the rabbit certainly knows how to fend off predators. Whether it’s by thumping their feet–yes, rabbits really do this–to sound tougher than they really are or using their stealth speed, these animals have a variety of beneficial defensive tactics. As a job seeker, a lesson in competition is highly necessary.
The search for employment is likely to leave you facing quite a bit of competition. You must do everything in your power to be the best candidate for each position for which you apply. This means customizing every resume you send out, perfecting your interview techniques, and developing a resilient network. Fending off the competition can also mean mentally conditioning yourself to focus on the positives and boost your own confidence.
3. Groom for success. Rabbits stay looking their best by regularly taking care of themselves. This means they have a set grooming routine–something job seekers should also have. While it may not necessarily be physical, continually grooming yourself for success is a must when it comes to your job search. Practice interview questions, ask your network connections or job search mentor to provide you with a resume or portfolio critique, and continually seek new ways to better your job search.
4. Communicate properly. Ah, the art of communication–another skill mastered by the rabbit. These small animals efficiently and effectively communicate their emotions in all situations. A rabbit can easily tell you when it is angry, happy, scared or relaxed. Many job seekers forget the importance of communication during their search for employment.
Communication is essential for properly displaying yourself to employers on paper or in person. Job seekers should focus on developing a strong elevator pitch for their interviews and networking opportunities, as well as honing in on their ability to speak confidently about their professional accomplishments and aspirations.
5. Know when to blend in or stand out. The ability to camouflage themselves in the face of a threat is another notable ability of a rabbit. Job seekers everywhere should also know when to blend in or stand out during the job hunt. There are many times where candidates need to fit a certain mold for a position, this is where blending comes into play. It’s your duty to ensure you have the skills to meet the needs of the position, while you must still have something extra that forces you to stand out to your potential employer as the best person for the job.
These highly intelligent and unwaveringly tough animals are the perfect job search inspiration. Inject your job search with these few tactics and you’re certain to survive.
Has an animal ever taught you a lesson about the job search or another challenge with regard to your career?
