Since the introduction of Chuck Norris into the Wired and Hired world, there has been a public outcry for more career advice from everyone’s favorite Texas Ranger. Believe it or not, Chuck Norris is not only an expert in martial arts and facial hair landscaping; he is also well-versed in career development: · Chuck can spot an ill-groomed beard from a mile away. Chuck’s classic beard withstands the test of time. To find out whether or not the company he interviews is just as timeless, he does serious research. What is the company’s financial track record? Are they consistently successful or are they sporadic? What are their biggest accounts or products, and what’s the longevity? What is the overall reputation in the industry? Chuck would never go into business with a company known for sub-par Texas Ranging skills. · Chuck notices environmental cues. When a tumbleweed bounces by on a dusty, deserted road, Chuck knows a martial arts-style throw-down is seconds away. In the interview setting, Chuck uses the same killer instinct to evaluate the office environment. Is it lively and energetic, or oppressively silent? Is the office visually appealing? Is the layout conducive to collaboration? When interviewing, watch how people work, and if they appear happy. The physical environment in an office can have dramatic psychological effects on workers. Effects that can not even be counteracted by Chuck’s intense muscle flexing sessions. · Chuck knows exactly where to deliver a fatal roundhouse kick. How? Chuck pays attention to body language. He listens to subtleties which reveal the character and integrity of the company as a whole, and determines the strengths and weaknesses. He outlines his career priorities beforehand, and asks questions during the interview that reveal whether or not the company fits his objectives. If he receives a bad vibe from the interviewer, Chuck politely walks out the door and never looks back (after, of course, fatally roundhouse kicking the interviewer in the face and knocking out the receptionist with a single beard slap to the chest). · Chuck understands the mind of the top dog. Chuck knows the behavior of the leader of an organization trickles down all the way down to the assistant and intern Texas Rangers. He reads up on the CEO before going to an interview. He knows an unwise leader can end up bringing the whole ship down. Remember: Chuck does not want a job, jobs want Chuck. He would never sell himself short by accepting a bad offer at a bad company, and neither should you.