By Deborah Kintner

While reading the book Breakthrough Thinking: Seven Principles of Creative Problem-Solving, it occurred to me that the seven principles applied aptly to job search. Below, I have outlined the seven principles described by Gerald Napler, PhD and Shozo Hibino, PhD, as well as my thoughts on how they relate to job-hunting.

  1. The Uniqueness Principle
    Although similarities may exist, each problem is unique and needs to be addressed as a totally new situation. Similarly, each person seeking a new position represents a unique combination of qualifications, personal traits, and history which will affect the job search process. Consequently, the position sought and particular actions taken to attain it, although similar in many ways, will differ somewhat for each person, as well as at different times in an individual’s lifespan. Just because you succeeded in finding employment previously does not mean you can approach your search in the same fashion this time.
  2. The Purposes Principle
    Effective, creative problem-solving needs to focus on the purpose and larger purposes stemming from it. That is, rather than looking at the problems, emphasize what you want to accomplish through your actions, preferably on a long-term, global basis. Such a focus helps eliminate nonessential aspects, thereby avoiding working on the wrong problem.

    For instance, on the surface, the purpose of a job search is to “find a job.” However, rather than stop at that point, proceed to, “What is my purpose in finding a job?” Generally, the answer would be, “To get money.” Again, you would ask the question, “What is my purpose?” Continue asking this question until you are unable to derive a larger purpose. A resultant hierarchy of purpose might look like this:

    1. Get a job
    2. Get money
    3. Buy possessions
    4. Take care of my family
    5. Enjoy the lifestyle of my desire
    6. Feel secure and content

    This final large purpose helps determine what information you will need and how you will determine if the solution you create fits the situation.

  3. The Solution-After-Next Principle
    By working backwards from an ideal solution, you may stimulate more creative, effective thinking toward your current situation. Thus, in considering the types of positions to pursue now, first envision the career you hope to pursue five or ten years from now. Ask yourself whether the job you are currently seeking will help you attain that vision. If not, you may need to look further. Otherwise, you will ultimately feel dissatisfied with the result.
  4. The Systems Principle
    In developing a solution to a problem, one must consider the larger system to determine what needs to be incorporated into your plan to resolve your problem. In the case of the job-seeker, this system generally involves family members, friends, and perhaps, the larger community. Thus, the question, “How will this decision affect each member of the family, the family structure, and my general social structure?” must be included as a consideration. By examining the needs of those around you, you gain greater insight into what types of positions, responsibilities, hours, and travel obligations are feasible for you.
  5. The Limited Information Collection Principle
    Possibly the most controversial of the principles, this axiom suggests that having too much information can reduce your ability to see and consider creative alternatives. Excessive information can narrow a person’s mind-set and distract the person from the purpose, blinding that person to innovative possibilities.

    In a job search situation, it becomes easy to focus on one specific industry, amassing mountains of information about particular companies and what they offer. However, much of this information remains irrelevant to your central purpose. While you want some data about the companies with which you hope to work, don’t lose sight of the purpose for all this research. It’s not to write a dissertation about the company. It’s to obtain a satisfying, fulfilling position of employment which will support you and your family. If the information will not assist you in achieving that end, you don’t need it.

  6. The People Design Principle
    Anyone involved in helping you implement the solution you create needs to be involved in its development. In addition, keeping the basic structure of the solution flexible assists the individuals involved in personalizing the manner of implementing it so that it will satisfy their needs, as well as attain the proposed goal. Consequently, including family members and significant others in developing your job search strategies comprises an essential component of the process. When they feel involved, they will be better able to provide the emotional and physical support you will need during your search. In addition, they will better understand the need for reducing demands on your time and energy when they realize the scope of your activities during this period.

    Feel free to delegate some of the work to family members and friends. Feeling included and working toward a goal together can help strengthen the bonds between yourself and those who are significant to you.

  7. The Betterment Timeline Principle
    The bridge to a better future is built on a series of purpose-driven solutions. It is imperative to realize that each situation exists within a greater schema. Problems do not exist in isolation and the solution will not be your final solution. Consequently, once you have arrived at one solution, consider the tasks which arise as a result of reaching that goal. For instance, although your initial purpose involves attaining the employment you desire, the next step in the process will involve performing well in that position and possibly gaining promotion from that point. The point is that solving a problem causes other problems, which is how you continue to progress. If you think you can sit back on your haunches and simply stay in the position you have found, you are sorely mistaken. Instead, realize that attaining a position is just one step in a continual process.

The good news is that by applying this process, you can develop highly creative, effective solutions which propel you toward the purposes you define. It takes time and effort but it’s well worth it. Good luck in your search!