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BY Cameron-Brooks

The Right Attitude is Everything!

I wanted to revisit an article I had read some time ago that I recently came across again entitled, “Why I Regretted Hiring the Perfect Employee,” by Marc Lore.  Now, I don’t know Marc nor do I typically follow his blog posts but I happened across this article and he highlighted several points that I found both interesting and enlightening.  His article discussed how he hired an employee who, on paper, looked like the perfect employee.  He had the Ivy League background, great work experience, strong referrals, etc.; all things pointing to him being a great hire.  But shortly after he hired this person, he began to complain and displayed a negative attitude at work, causing a ripple effect among the other employees.  Looking back on it, the author alluded to several signs during the interview process that should have tipped him off.  Here are a few quotes from the article:

“I incorrectly dismissed the fact that many of the questions he asked during the interview focused more on personal career objectives than on how he could contribute to the company’s mission.”

“In my experience, the best employees are positive, low maintenance, and unselfish.”

“Whether someone is an intern or a vice president, having the right attitude is everything.”

Having just completed our January Career Conference, I am always reminded just how far attitude and effort can go towards not only a successful transition but in your career as well.  As a JMO, your education and military experience can only take you so far, and I have unfortunately seen JMOs with great credentials get ruled out of an interview because of a poor attitude.  Conversely, time and again, I have witnessed JMOs that may have strong military performance but not the strongest of objective assets (degree, school, GPA, etc) that come well prepared, have terrific attitudes, and often beat out other candidates who may appear stronger “on paper.”

With a development candidate type of position, companies are looking for someone to solve two distinct problems – 1) someone who can fill the role and make an immediate impact; and 2) grow into increasing roles of responsibility within the company. Remember, it’s the companies that own the interview simply because they have the open position and you are looking for a job/career.  Strong objective assets may get you into the interview, but for these developmental positions, it will always be your attitude and ability to communicate your background that will get you pursued and hired.  Therefore, you must demonstrate the value you can bring and how you can contribute to the organization first.  It is not that recruiters/employers don’t want ambitious people working for them who have their own personal goals.  But, companies are looking for people who are equally motivated to help their team, organization, and company be successful. Be a giver first and show how you can contribute to the team and the company. If you can successfully do that, the job offer and subsequent promotions, pay raises, perks, etc. will come.   The right attitude is everything.

Rob Davis