I know the MLB World Series is over and the Yankees have been crowned the champs but there was an interesting side story that I think really applies to your job search. Cole Hamels, superstar pitcher and MVP of last years World Series and National League Championship Series (yeah he’s kind of a big deal), really upset fans when he said he couldn’t wait for the season to be over. The problem - he said this after a poor outing and losing pitching effort against the Yankees in game 3 of the World Series.

- His timing could not have been worse.

- He probably shouldn’t have said it.

- This caused his teammates to question his dedication to their goal and their team.

How does this apply to your job search and or future employer concerns? Companies want to hire employees who can work under duress and deliver in spite of the odds - tight deadlines, under staffed projects, not enough resources, etc… These firms aren’t going to hire a “Cole Hamels” who cracks or wants to call it a day because the going is tough and he is “mentally drained”. As someone who is in the job market, someone actively looking for their next opportunity, you have to rise above your competition (other job seekers) and show why you are the MVP (most valuable person) they can hire.

- Highlight specific accomplishments in your background that relate to their needs.

- Emphasize how you’ve delivered in a clutch situation.

- Point out times that you’ve excelled or exceeded even your own lofty expectations.

You can’t be ordinary if you want to get the job. You must be extraordinary if you are going to get a job in this market. The Yankees won the World Series and many will say it was because of great pitching, timely hitting or better coaching. At the end of the day, the Phillies may have been undone by a lack of harmony in the dugout. Show your future employer that you are an asset not a liability. Someone who can bring the team together while delivering beyond their wildest dreams. Be the Cole Hamels of 2008 (World Series MVP, National League MVP), not 2009. Be uber-committed.

* Disclaimer: I am a San Francisco Giants fan. I generally root for the National League when the Giants don’t make it to the World Series but I did root for the Yankees this year (for what it’s worth) *

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