From Job Search to Career Fulfilment

Last year at this time, I published a heartfelt article about my journey of looking for employment…and my life lessons…from that journey of almost one year. I noted that I had met some incredible people during that time. People who were willing to provide some support in the way of counseling and advice during a particularly difficult time of my life. Amazingly, I have met many of those people who wrote to me on Linked In, by Skype or in person or simply as a phone call. So what has happened since that trying year of 2014?

• I was recommended for the job I have now. What I do well, my experience, my enthusiasm and my integrity over the last 25 years of my professional life came back to support me. Stay the course is often said, but being true to your values will pay off in the end.

 Keep up with past employers, colleagues and connections to be top of mind!

• The networking for a new career paid off. But not like you may have expected. Although I didn’t land a job from my networking, what I did receive was some great connections to strong leaders. I was able to tap into those connections in my new role in developing business for the global learning organization that I now work for. And, they were open to meeting me and discussing business opportunities because of my sincerity to genuinely help others.

 Go to networking events every week if possible and narrow down the ones that will serve your career goals.

• Staying relevant enhanced the wisdom I had gained with my experience. Again, my concern over ageism (although well founded with certain companies) was turned around when I was able to demonstrate not only what I had learned over my years of experience but how I continued to stay current. That relevancy, added to my passion for my work, was seen as “youthful” energy to my current company.

Go to industry events that you want to have a career in. If you can’t afford that right now, ask about volunteer opportunities. Find free online training in your chosen field. Learn about the latest tools being used in the career you want so that you can speak to these in an interview.

• My leadership ability was valued in the right position. If you read my previous article, you can see that I learned I couldn’t hide who I was and was dismayed when I was offered roles that wouldn’t use my leadership ability. However, when the right company with the right leaders recognize how they might use your best abilities, you will be appreciated and rewarded.

Make a list of your abilities. What do you want to be known for? And what do you need to demonstrate in the interview to be able to use your best strengths?

• Thank those that got you where you are! Since last year, I have gone back and personally thanked many folks for their advice, warm wishes and invaluable support.

Pay it forward. Learn from others that supported you when you were down. Realize the power of that opportunity to now help others. The world is a better place when you take this attitude.

Thank you for listening, may you be blessed and let me know how I might serve you in your journey!!