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Yes I freely watch X Factor and yes I think John & Edward are great. I don’t think their greatness is singing ability but even they agree that they weren’t top of the queue when God was giving out singing voices. I do however admire many other attributes and I think we can all learn from them. I have outlined some points where jobseekers can learn from the twins.

Understand and play to your strengths

John & Edward understand their strengths and limitations and are very much playing to their strengths on the show – personality, likeability, energy and fun attitude. Many jobseekers have never truly analysed themselves to identify strengths or limitations. This exploration is the foundation for any good job search. Lack of clarity will lead to targeting the wrong opportunities or inability to communicate true value to potential employers.

Position yourself and develop a strategy

John & Edward realise they are not the most talented singers and positioned themselves to help differentiate. Many jobseekers have not identified how they differentiate from the competition and get lost in the crowd. John & Edward choose an appropriate strategy – X Factor. Did they sit in Lucan sending out singing demos? Absolutely not!! They realised they had to be seen to succeed. Many jobseekers limit themselves by relying on the wrong strategies like sending a CV when a CV does not tell the true story.

Attitude – hard work, positivity and determination

These two guys have a tremendous attitude. They have faced negativity and booing each week but they maintain positivity and focus. They don’t let rejection or negativity stop them and they probably work twice as hard to make up for their lack of singing ability. We face a tough job market and if you take anything away from watching these guys it is their attitude.

Visibility – help opportunities find you

John & Edward put themselves on the map by taking risk and increasing visibility. They are now household names and job opportunities will follow. We don’t have an X Factor for jobseekers but there are many options available to increase visibility. It’s about moving out of the comfort zone and giving it a shot like John & Edward.

Finally a question for X Factor viewers – Is it just me or does Louis Walsh have the weirdest clap? For those of you who don’t waste time with X Factor and participate in more constructive activities why not join Measurability Careers & Jobs Club on Linkedin.