At the beginning of 2025 I set up a job search group called HR Compass. Supporting HR Leaders through career transitions is always a privilege - the conversations, the breakthroughs, the reminder that even experienced leaders need space to reflect and reset.
We have had so many wonderful discussions that have given is all light bulb moments.
Recently I listened to a book called ‘The Go Giver’ by Bob Burg and John David Mann, recommended to me by my coach, Rebecca Shannon. They tell us a story, allowing the elements of ‘The Go-Giver’ principles to be brought to life, making it easier to grasp. The authors call these principles or lessons the ‘Five Laws of Stratospheric Success.’
Told through a simple but powerful story, the book introduces the ‘Five Laws of Stratospheric Success’ - principles that felt deeply aligned with everything we were exploring together.
It then got me thinking, how could we apply these principles to our job searching.
Here is my take.
The Law of Value: Your true worth is determined by how much more you give in value than you take in payment.
For a job seeker, this means focusing on providing exceptional value to potential employers even before receiving a salary. This can be achieved by:
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Thoroughly researching the company and the specific role to understand their needs and challenges.
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Tailoring your CV to directly address those needs, highlighting how your skills and experience can help, specifically them. This is about demonstrating the value you can bring that goes beyond the basic requirements.
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During interviews, asking insightful questions that show your understanding of the company and the role, and offer thoughtful contributions even during the interview that leave them reflecting on those solutions and that it was you that brought that to them.
The Law of Compensation: Your income is determined by how many people you serve and how well you serve them.
In the context of job searching, the 'people you serve' can be seen as the employer and the broader impact you can have within the organisation.
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Think about the scope of the role you are applying for and how it contributes to the larger goals of the company. Share how your work will positively impact different stakeholders and contribute to the company's success.
The Law of Influence: Your influence is determined by how abundantly you place other people’s interests first.
In a job search, nurturing your networks is an important part of the process:
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Networking with a genuine interest in others. Shift your focus to them and offer help when you can. This builds genuine relationships that can lead to unexpected opportunities.
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During an interview or conversations with your network, focus on learning from their experiences and offering your support rather than outright asking about the job or vacancies.
The Law of Authenticity: The most valuable gift you have to offer is yourself.
In a job search, being authentic is crucial:
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Present your genuine skills, experiences, and personality in your applications and interviews. Avoid trying to be someone you are not to fit what the client is looking for. You will not be happy there. Authenticity resonates and helps you find a role where you will truly thrive.
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Reflect on your true values and passions and seek out companies and roles that align with them.
The Law of Receptivity: The key to effective giving is to stay open to receiving.
While, job searching, people do want to help:
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Be open to feedback (and ask for it if not offered) on your CV, cover letter, and interview, and using it constructively to improve.
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Accepting help and opportunities offered by your network with gratitude.
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Staying open to diverse types of roles or industries that you might not have initially considered. Consider interim, or consultancy, as these can often turn into longer term opportunities.
The message of "The Go-Giver," suggests that by focusing on giving value you will receive more in return – your dream job!