Did you get up to watch the royal wedding? I did! I’m a royal watcher from way back.
Unlike the last royal weddings I arose early to view, this time, I am thinking of the career lessons from the story.
Everyone seems to be making a major point of how Catherine and William hold the burden of the whole country — the future of England and the monarchy — on their shoulders. Can you imagine a bigger job?
These are the lessons I’m considering. Feel free to suggest your ideas in the comments!
– Be prepared and take your time. The newlyweds have been together a long time, presumably giving Catherine plenty of opportunity to decide if she wanted the job. While no one wants that type of “courtship” for a position (some interview processes already seem eternal), the lesson here is to remember the job seeker is also evaluating the fit for the opportunity. Keep your eyes open; decide if you will be happy working for the organization, and don’t be dazzled or desperate.
– Make it your own — within reason. A lot of the television coverage I watched made a big deal of how the couple wanted to put their stamp on the wedding ceremony. They wanted it to feel like “their,” intimate service, despite the millions watching. Commentators believed they succeeded. The career lesson? Be yourself, but keeping in mind the greater expectations. Other couples may have had a lot more leeway in their music choices, for example. Let’s face it, there were certain expectations for this service that were likely non-negotiable. Similarly, job seekers need to take expectations into account and target their materials and efforts to appeal to their audience (the hiring decision makers).
– Rely on your supporters. William has his brother, Harry. Catherine has sister, Pippa. From what the media suggests, both take the role of helping out, serving as confidants and merry makers. I just heard Pippa is bringing in glitter balls for the party tonight at the palace. We’ve heard for years how Harry and his brother support and rely on each other. If you are looking for a job, be sure to create and rely on your network. Identify your go-to people for different “jobs.” Maybe you have a “fun” friend or colleague who’s the one you contact when you want some comic relief. Another empathizes when you’re having a tough time. Don’t go it alone.
– Practice. The vows. The kiss. Diana actually flubbed Charles’ four-part name (reversing two of them) during her vows in 1981. I can bet Catherine and William practiced their vows, and there’s talk they even had a “rehearsal” for “the kiss” to help photographers get the angles right. It’s a kiss, but everyone (okay, a LOT of people) are watching. How often do you rehearse what you will say in an interview? Out loud? Try it – answer the question, “Why should we hire you?” on a regular basis. I’ve even suggested taping that inquiry to your bathroom mirror and responding every time you see it.
– Dress the part. Many people in the crowds watching the wedding are dressed, hats and the whole bit. I’m sure it makes the whole thing feel much more fun and festive. How can you not feel “in the moment” wearing one of those crazy hats that perch on the side of your head? 
Some suggest dressing up even for a phone interview, just to be “in the moment.” Think about it — what you wear matters!
– Exceed expectations. The married couple came out for the big kiss – and surprised the crowd with a second kiss! What can you do to go above and beyond? It’s up to you to stand out and differentiate!
What do you think?