By Sunny Simon
When Marla walked in my office it was obvious she had big news. Once she was seated my new client blurted out her job was eliminated in a company downsizing. It seemed clear to me Marla was happy about leaving her present position. She confirmed my suspicion admitting the job was boring, she hated the commute and her boss was a micro-manager with an insecurity complex. When I inquired why she would remain in job she disliked, I received an answer I’ve heard more than once. Marla confessed starting a job search seemed scary and overwhelming.
Although embarking on the journey of finding a new position requires preparation and a concerted effort, it need not be drudgery. On the contrary, this could be an exciting time for my new client. I began to walk Marla through the following positive elements related to launching a job search.
The process begins with updating your resume. Preparing that document and taking stock of your many achievements, reveals how much you’ve expanded your skill set. Writing accomplishment statements is proof on paper the value you bring to a future employer. Once you’ve crafted a killer resume, it’s uplifting to take pride in your past career achievements.
Statistics show 80% of jobs are discovered through networking. The number one priority in a search is reconnecting with former colleagues and expanding your network by making connections. Acquaintances are happy to hear from you and can be helpful in introducing you to others. Enjoy the time spent catching up with your friends and meeting new people.
If you’ve been toying with the idea of making big changes in your life, do it now. Does relocating to another city or state sound enticing? No better time than the present to take your search in a new direction. Ready for a jump up on the career ladder? Again, now is the ideal time to position yourself in an upward direction. Thinking of changing professions? I repeat, now is the time.
Comprehending the timing issue, Marla’s expression brightened. She shared her desire to return to college and complete her degree. She could put the severance her company provided toward tuition. Once she earned the remaining credits for her bachelor’s degree, she could begin a job search.
Watching Marla head out the door, I knew she visualized a new chapter in her career embracing the pink slip for prompting a long overdue change. How about you? Perhaps now is the time to implement a positive job change in your life.
Sunny Simon is the owner of Raise the Bar High Life and Career Coaching and the author of the blog, www.lifeonthesunnyside.net
