Season 3 of House of Cards went live on Netflix this morning at 8AM and though I resisted the urge to take a day’s annual leave to watch the first few episodes I know I’ll most likely fit in one or two between the six nations this weekend.

The lead character of House of Cards played by Kevin Spacey is a sinister and fascinating character with great ambition. Whilst many of his methods would land you behind bars, some of his more core traits might actually help you land a job!

Francis Underwood’s top 3 Job seeking traits:

Relentlessness

Francis Underwood does not take no for an answer and if he hits a brick wall he figures out a way around it. Job seeking is easier today than it was during the downturn, but getting the best job requires a more relentless search of the market.

If you are committed to making a move, commit to making the best move and that means job seeking activity every day (searching sites, speaking with recruiters, activity on linkedin…etc)

Contacts

As mentioned above, sometimes Kevin Spacey’s character hits a brick wall and if he can’t get around it he uses his contacts to remove it.

People are often reluctant to go to their network when it comes to finding a job, but it is a massive source of information and opportunity. You can bring the topic of discussion around to the jobs market without stating that you are on it don’t forget!

Calculation

Francis Underwood will start a chain of events in motion in episode 2 of a season and in episode 10 it will bear fruition. He is very calculated and has a strategic understanding of how events are likely to unfold.

When searching for a job, know from the outset what you are hoping to achieve (more money, better progression, better work or a mix of all 3?). Look at the type of environments and roles that will help you achieve these and figure out a point of entry to access these roles. Remember, sometimes it takes one move to get the experience you need and another to get the job you want. Be calculated!

I’m a big fan of both House of Cards and also the way Netflix release the series all in one go and plan on taking a decent size bite out of the season over the coming weekend. If Frank demonstrates any other significant job seeking talents I will make sure to update the above!

How Francis Underwood can help you get a job was written by Robert Connolly, Director.

For more information see amicus.ie/legal-jobs-ireland