Originally, the term “specs (Spec)” was. used for objects rather than people. It is. an abbreviation for “Specification,” referring to a detailed technical description of an object or product.
The concept of “specs” related to individuals gained popularity, and it became a common term in the job market atmosphere of the early 2010s.
“The prevalent use of the term ‘specs’ in. the 2010s job market”
I vividly remember the time when I graduated from university and entered the job market in the early 2010s. I applied to various places from late 2012 to early 2014. Towards the end of 2012, I applied to CJ E&M, successfully passing the document review, the first and second rounds of tests but unfortunately failing the final interview.
Eventually, in 2013, I secured a job at the Industrial Bank of Korea, and in 2014, I moved to work at Paju English Village.
Even now, I’m not sure if the term “specs” is still commonly used, but back then, it. was prevalent. Terms like “specs 5 types” or “specs 7 types” became part of the. language used in job preparation, and. people competed to build up the necessary qualifications.
In the mid-2010s, the drama “Misaeng” (Incomplete Life), which aired during that period, even featured the term “specs 7 types.” A search of articles from the 2010s revealed the emergence of phrases like “job 9 types.”
- Specs 3 types: University background, GPA, TOEIC score
- Specs 5 types: University background, GPA, TOEIC score, language study abroad experience, certifications
- Specs 7 types: University background, GPA, TOEIC score, language study abroad experience, certifications, competition awards, internship experience
- Specs 9 types: University background, GPA, TOEIC score, language study abroad experience, certifications, competition awards, internship experience, social service, plastic surgery
“Despite preparing various specs, job. hunting was still challenging”
I also put effort into building up my qualifications while preparing for employment. Perhaps it was because the societal atmosphere at the time encouraged everyone to put in effort, or maybe due to my own desire to excel academically, I naturally ended up with most of the qualifications mentioned.
I remember having qualifications such as university background, GPA, TOEIC score, certifications, competition awards, and internship experience. Unfortunately, due to financial constraints, I couldn’t afford language study abroad or plastic surgery.
“Adding a Story to the Resume”
After the competition based on specs, there came a time when it was necessary to add a convincing story to one’s resume. While writing cover letters, I found myself working hard to tailor them to each company’s requirements.
During that time, Kim Jung-tae’s book, “Story Beats Specs,” gained attention and accelerated the trend of incorporating stories into resumes.
The author’s message was clear – instead of solely focusing on qualifications that everyone possesses, it’s crucial to emphasize what makes you unique. The book encouraged readers to showcase their distinctiveness through stories and narratives.
“Occupation, Occupation, Vocation”
The book offers a definition of “occupation.” It suggests separating “Occupation” into two parts: “직” (Jik) and “업” (Eop). “Jik” corresponds to the tasks and responsibilities within a job that can be replaced by someone else. On the other hand, “Eop” refers to vocation – a subject one passionately pursues throughout their life, closely tied to the concept of craftsmanship.
Many people worry about “Jik” but tend to overlook “Eop.” The book emphasizes the importance of contemplating what one truly wants to do. Once the big picture is envisioned, the smaller details fall into place naturally.
Ultimately, the book encourages readers to focus on developing their capabilities beyond quantifiable specs. Instead of fixating on numerical achievements, the emphasis is on growing one’s unique capabilities.
“Beyond Specs Lies the Power of Story”
The author’s main message is that, rather than concentrating solely on universally held qualifications, it is crucial to cultivate something unique to oneself. While the book was initially received positively, the pressure to craft one’s story eventually led to a flattening effect. In the end, not only did individuals need to have the right “specs,” but they also had to prepare their unique “story” to succeed in the job market.
Certainly, pursuing a life beyond the norm and embracing “my own life” is essential. Even if the primary goal is not just employment, contemplating one’s unique vocation and moving forward with a. positive mindset is crucial.
“Story Beats Specs”
- Author: Kim Jung-tae
- Publication Date: March 31, 2010
- ISBN13: 9788901106434
- Yes24 Link: Story Beats Specs