I have started this particular blog multiple times and then
got too busy to finish. When I started
again my focus seemed to change and each time I picked it up I found myself
running into a time crunch. I am really busy! That is when I realized what the
blog had to be about.
So, I hoped to be telling you all about the fabulous,
full-time position that had snapped me up but, alas, that is not the story. Not being part of an organization can be frustrating,
unnerving and at times pretty lonely. I
realized I had to change my priorities for the time being. While continuing to
pursue a new job I decided to return to my consulting roots. I began by running job readiness trainings as
were available, but now I am independently helping other very busy entrepreneurs
get their work done. Most of the services I provide center around writing,
marketing, research, networking and social media. They utilize my core skill base and my
personal interests.
The irony is that the very thing that has made me face
difficulties in finding work has also provided work that I am enjoying. Having been
in the work world a while can make some HR departments feel they can’t afford
you, or can’t mold you to what they need, or that they don’t think you will be
comfortable with a younger supervisor. All
of which is erroneous, but it is out there.
So my job tip # 11 is: Remember
to be flexible in your job seeking journey.
As it was when you started working years ago, you knew you had to prove
your worth and learn as you went along; that has not changed. What has changed is that you bring with you
an amazing toolbox full of proven skills and developed knowledge that can allow
you to carve your own path for a while. Enjoy this time while meeting new
people and continuing to practice your craft. If we stay nimble, stay flexible
and stay positive I believe the meaningful next step will come along.
Yours in motion, Susan
Dear Susan, Is silence the new black? What's a girl to make of it when a job prospect or contact goes silent after a promising connection? I've had this happen several times where I've connected with a job or consulting gig prospect via face-to-face, email, text, or messaging. We talk, spark, and discuss follow-up (e.g., the contact says, "I'll contact you next week about our next next"). Then . . . nothing. I shoot a short, polite email (or text or message) just to check in about the status of our next step. Again, silence. I don't know exactly what I'm supposed to infer from the silence but know enough not to keep buggin' my contact. So I let the thread drop, hope for the best and realize I have no idea what went wrong. What does silence mean in this context?
ReplyDeleteThanks for your great observation Karen. I, too, have seen a lot of non-response to job applications and even worse interviews. I see this not only for myself but for many fellow job searchers. I am going to do a bit of research and give you a more thorough reply in my next blog.
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