You Are Always On Stage In Terms of Job Hunting

For many people, job hunting is an infrequent ordeal—something that happens every few years, requiring grueling months of applications and interviews. Once they land the job, they relax until the next cycle begins. But this mindset misses a key truth: success comes from continuous preparation, not just short bursts of effort. Instead, I recommend adopting a mindset where you're always "on stage".

An analogy of tennis power shot

Think of it like hitting a powerful tennis shot. The moment the ball contacts the racket—just 5 milliseconds—is critical, but it’s not the whole story. That perfect “pop” requires more than strong arms. It depends on a coiled core, powerful legs, and a connection to the ground, honed through months of consistent training.

Now, let’s unwind the analogy. Landing a job offer is the equivalent of the perfect ball-to-racket contact. Acing the interview is like the strong arms, core, and legs working in harmony. But your everyday actions and mindset are the foundation—the equivalent of the ground and the ongoing training that make it all possible.

What does "always on stage" mean?

It means adapting and innovating when solving technical challenges, rather than just completing tasks. It’s about deriving deep learnings/reflections from your work and consistently pursuing growth. It also means how you manage interactions and build relationships with colleagues. Experienced interviewers and hiring managers can pick up on these signals, seeing them as indicators of your potential and professionalism.

What does "always on stage" not mean?

It doesn’t mean being fake or pretending to be someone you’re not. While there’s naturally a difference between how we act at work and at home, being "on stage" at work is about professionally presenting our values and mindset, not putting on a façade. Think of it like Taylor Swift: she might wear lounge pants and hoodies while practicing in her studio, but she dresses up to deliver a polished performance during a concert. Authenticity and professionalism are not contradictory.

See you on stage. Look forward to seeing you shine.