What Color Is Your Parachute? 2021 Summary

Your dream job isn’t found by chance—it’s created through strategy, self-awareness, and smart decision-making.

1. Think Like an Employer to Stand Out

Job seekers often focus on their own needs, but employers are looking for candidates who align with their goals. To succeed, you need to shift your perspective and think like an employer.

Employers want to minimize risk and hire someone who will add value to their team. This means they often prefer candidates who come recommended or who take the initiative to approach them directly. Instead of waiting for job postings, reach out to companies you admire and build connections within your industry. This proactive approach can set you apart from the crowd.

Additionally, employers are increasingly looking beyond résumés. They check social media profiles and online presence to get a fuller picture of candidates. By tailoring your application to the company’s needs and maintaining a professional online image, you increase your chances of being noticed.

Examples

• Many companies fill roles through internal referrals rather than public job postings.
• A well-maintained LinkedIn profile can attract recruiters who are actively searching for talent.
• Customizing your cover letter to address a company’s specific challenges shows initiative and understanding.

2. Use the Flower Exercise to Define Your Goals

The Flower Exercise is a self-inventory tool that helps you identify what you truly want from a job. It breaks your preferences into seven categories, or "petals," to clarify your ideal role.

The first three petals focus on people, working conditions, and transferable skills. For example, you might prefer working in a collaborative environment (social) or with data-driven colleagues (realistic). By reflecting on past experiences, you can identify what conditions help you thrive and which skills you bring to the table.

The remaining petals cover knowledge, salary, geography, and purpose. These help you pinpoint your expertise, financial needs, preferred locations, and deeper motivations. Completing the exercise gives you a clear picture of what to look for in a job and ensures your search aligns with your values.

Examples

• A teacher who loves baking might discover a passion for leading baking workshops.
• Someone who dislikes open-plan offices might prioritize remote or private workspaces.
• A professional with strong organizational skills could target project management roles.

3. Tailor Your Résumé for Maximum Impact

A strong résumé is essential, but it’s only part of the equation. To stand out, your résumé must highlight your achievements and be tailored to each job you apply for.

Start by choosing the right format. A functional résumé emphasizes skills, while a chronological one focuses on work history. Whichever you choose, include measurable accomplishments, such as "increased sales by 20%," to demonstrate your impact. Avoid generic statements and focus on specific results.

Beyond the paper résumé, your online presence matters. Platforms like LinkedIn allow you to showcase your skills and connect with industry professionals. Keep your profile updated and use keywords that recruiters might search for. This dual approach ensures you’re visible both online and offline.

Examples

• A marketing professional might list "launched a campaign that boosted engagement by 30%" on their résumé.
• A designer could use Instagram to display their portfolio and attract clients.
• A LinkedIn profile with industry-specific keywords can improve searchability for recruiters.

4. Build a Strong Online Presence

In today’s job market, your online presence is as important as your résumé. Employers often research candidates online before making hiring decisions.

Start with LinkedIn, the go-to platform for professionals. Create a profile that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements. Use a professional photo and include keywords relevant to your industry. Beyond LinkedIn, consider other platforms that suit your field. For example, designers might use Instagram, while writers could showcase their work on Medium.

Your online activity should reflect your professional interests. Share articles, comment on industry trends, and engage with others in your field. This not only builds your network but also positions you as a knowledgeable and active professional.

Examples

• A software developer might share coding tips on Twitter to connect with peers.
• A photographer could use Pinterest to display their portfolio and attract clients.
• A LinkedIn post about a recent project can spark conversations with potential employers.

5. Prepare for Interviews Like a Pro

Interviews are your chance to make a lasting impression. Preparation is key to showcasing your skills and understanding of the company.

Start by researching the company thoroughly. Learn about its mission, values, and recent projects. If possible, talk to current or former employees to gain insider knowledge. During the interview, frame your answers as stories that highlight your skills and achievements. For example, instead of saying, "I’m good at problem-solving," share a specific instance where you solved a challenging issue.

Remember, interviews are a two-way street. Ask thoughtful questions about the role and company culture to ensure it’s a good fit for you. This shows genuine interest and helps you make an informed decision.

Examples

• Researching a company’s recent product launch can help you tailor your answers to their goals.
• Sharing a story about leading a successful project demonstrates leadership skills.
• Asking about team dynamics shows you’re interested in collaboration.

6. Negotiate Your Salary with Confidence

Salary negotiations can be intimidating, but they’re an important part of the hiring process. Approach them with preparation and confidence.

Wait until you have a job offer before discussing salary. Let the employer state a figure first, then use your research to counter with a reasonable range. Online tools like Glassdoor can help you determine the average salary for similar roles. Don’t forget to consider benefits, such as health insurance and vacation time, which can add significant value to your compensation package.

By negotiating effectively, you ensure you’re fairly compensated for your skills and experience. This sets the tone for a positive working relationship with your employer.

Examples

• A candidate who researches industry salaries can confidently request a competitive range.
• Negotiating for additional vacation days can enhance work-life balance.
• Highlighting your unique skills can justify a higher salary offer.

7. Leverage Informational Interviews

Informational interviews are a powerful way to learn about companies and build connections without the pressure of a formal job application.

Reach out to professionals in your field and ask for a brief meeting to discuss their experiences. Use this opportunity to learn about their role, company culture, and industry trends. These conversations can provide valuable insights and help you decide if a company is a good fit for you.

Informational interviews also expand your network. A positive impression can lead to referrals or even job opportunities in the future. Approach these meetings with curiosity and professionalism to make the most of them.

Examples

• A recent graduate might ask a mentor about their career path and advice for breaking into the industry.
• An aspiring entrepreneur could meet with a small business owner to learn about starting a company.
• A job seeker might discover hidden opportunities through a casual conversation with an industry insider.

8. Create Your Dream Job if It Doesn’t Exist

If you can’t find a role that matches your vision, consider creating it. Entrepreneurship allows you to design a career that aligns with your passions and skills.

Start by identifying what you’re good at and what you love to do. Look for overlaps that could form the basis of a business idea. For example, someone who loves writing and teaching might offer online writing workshops. Research the skills and resources you’ll need to succeed, and reach out to experienced entrepreneurs for guidance.

Launching your own business requires effort, but it can be incredibly rewarding. By taking control of your career, you can build a role that truly fulfills you.

Examples

• A graphic designer might start a freelance business to work on projects they’re passionate about.
• A fitness enthusiast could launch a personal training service tailored to specific client needs.
• A tech-savvy individual might create an app to solve a common problem.

9. Search Smarter, Not Harder

If your job search isn’t working, it’s time to change your approach. Focus on quality over quantity to find roles that truly match your goals.

Start by using the Flower Exercise to clarify what you want. Then, target companies that align with your values and skills. Build connections within those organizations and tailor your applications to their needs. This strategic approach is more effective than sending out generic résumés to dozens of companies.

By searching smarter, you increase your chances of finding a job that’s a perfect fit for you. It’s not about working harder—it’s about working strategically.

Examples

• A job seeker who tailors their résumé to each role is more likely to get interviews.
• Networking with industry professionals can uncover hidden job opportunities.
• Researching a company’s values ensures alignment with your own goals.

Takeaways

1. Use the Flower Exercise to clarify your career goals and focus your job search.
2. Build a strong online presence to attract recruiters and showcase your skills.
3. Approach salary negotiations with preparation and confidence to secure fair compensation.