KEEPING IT REAL: A DEAR RECRUITING RAYA QUESTION

Dear Recruiting Raya: I want to make money. It's the only reason I'm looking for a job. Do I have to lie and say something else when they ask me?

As I always say, “never lie.” The short answer to your question is “no.”

I would argue, though, that you might want to change your perspective before you hit your next interview. Employers already know that you want money in exchange for an honest day's work. Money is a primary motivator for work. It's probably why the organization is hiring in the first place… they need people to help them achieve fiscal goals.

The perspective shift I would encourage is to focus on the value you are offering in exchange for getting paid. An employer is not motivated to give you a job because you need the money. An employer hires people they believe can earn them more business, save them time or increase their efficiency to do whatever it is that they do. Try to focus right there – on how you solve the problems this employer has. Demonstrate what you can contribute to your potential employer by your past work experience (resume), your current interests (explanation of why you chose this particular job) and your current skills and abilities.

Be aware, however, that this is a "one-size-fits-all" answer. If you are looking for a second or part-time job to cover an expense or unexpected bill, it can be permissible to mention that fact. I would also include why you chose that particular job (i.e. You might have the required experience or you heard great things from the employees, etc.) All of this can be part of the "job story" that you present to your employer during an interview.

What you don't want to do is to focus solely on YOUR needs during the interview. Focusing just on money (or your lack of money) isn't coming from a place where you can create value. It's coming from an absence of value. When employers are flooded with resumes, they often don't have the time or energy to get personally involved in your story. Focus instead on what you can bring to the employer and everyone will be better off, no matter how much you have in your bank account.

Recruiting Raya happily answers your burning questions about the hiring process. Email Raya@Akraya.com to have your questions addressed.