During every trying time is a hidden opportunity, you just have to have the mindset to see it. Now is the time to reflect on your strengths and focus on communicating them in a compelling fashion. Here are some tips to help you along the way...

note: the examples below may be over exaggerated to give you ideas and are not necessarily the best way to communicate your specific advantage.

You have most of the skills they require - but need additional training.
Employers are looking for the BEST candidate to fill their position. More often than not, that person has most of the required skills but not 100% [of course you have to possess the basic knowledge to do the job]. Don't be afraid to let them know which skill sets you need to expand and tell them the plan you have to get there. Show them you take responsibility and initiative, and you will stand out among the rest!

For example:

"I am confident that my previous experience has given me the skills to accomplish the requirements of your advertised position on JobsHawaii.com. You do require proficiency in Microsoft Office in which I have yet to utilize in a work environment. I am adept at using computers and software and purchased the 1998 version with the upgrade for 2000. Not only have I enrolled in a class that starts this week, but also I have volunteered for a political candidate that uses this software in all of their day to day operations. I am confident that my proficiency will meet your expectations within one month's time."

 

You want to come home - for their job.
You were born here, you have family here, you went to school here, or maybe you or your parents were stationed here in the military. Whatever reason you call this island community your home, we need you back! But you need to let employers know you really want to work for them and are not just using the job as a stepping stone across the ocean so you can look for something better when you get home! Remember, Hawaii's intellectual capital is the number one export, a precious resource we cannot continue to lose at this rapid rate. Politicians talk about creating new economies for our islands, but we need our ohana so that economic diversification dreams can become the next generation's reality.

For example:

"I opted to go to the mainland to gain experience that will increase my value to companies back home. I feel now that I can contribute a positive perspective to assist your business in its continued success. Over the past few months I have been looking for the right match and I am very interested in putting my newfound knowledge to work as your new [NAME OF JOB TITLE].

You are overqualified - it's obvious, but your priorities have changed.
Employers shy away from individuals who have more qualifications than the job requires because on average those individuals leave as soon as they can find work that more matches their capabilities. If you really want to secure that position, then tell them why!

For example:

"I know my qualifications exceed your requirements but let me just point out that I value your company's mission and wish to contribute my skills to ensure its continued success. At this point in my career I am looking for the kind of quality of life your company would provide, not fancy job titles."

 

You are changing careers and have no experience in the new field.
Two words. Transferable skills. Now is the time to really sit down every day and document the accomplishments and projects that you completed during the past years in your old occupation. Categorize them based on the benefits it meant to the company. In other words, knowing a particular software program, but what did you do with it. Look at the processes you used to accomplish a project that increased the efficiency of the task or better yet, eliminated costly duplication. Emphasize and give specific examples of how you work smart, not how much of a hard worker you were.

For example:

"After a successful career in [NAME OCCUPATION] I have reassessed my goals and determined that it is time to seek new challenges. Although I do not have direct experience as a [NAME JOB TITLE], I can immediately apply the following critical skills to help your company succeed:[LIST TRANSFERABLE SKILLS IN TERMS OF RESULTS].

 

You do not live in the area - but are willing to relocate on your own.
Employers are looking for individuals who understand the local culture and economic challenges of the area in which the job is located. It is MANDATORY that you communicate that you have done your homework by communicating your rationale as to why you are willing to make such a dramatic change in your life. Also in these economic times, employers are not willing to pay for relocation.

For example:

"I am willing to cover all relocation expenses as I understand the challenges of living and working in such an environment as the island of Oahu <or whatever other island>. I also know that the pay scale may be different compared to the standards in which I have experienced in my past positions. Rest assured that I am in a place in my life where quality not quantity is top priority. It is clear that your company values quality, through it products <or services> and its employees."

 

 

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