Success Charter Chapter

Article by Michele O'Brien

I have observed that we no longer refer to ourselves as being unemployed, laid off, looking for work, in-between jobs, etc. We now call it – "being in transition". Regardless of how you
choose to refer to your current job or career situation, here are some helpful hints and tips– things I've learned along the way of "being in transition". We'll look at five of the ten tips this
month. Please look for the remaining five in next month's newsletter.

Tell others what you're doing and/or what you're looking for. Believe it or not, most people aren't mind-readers, and will never know what your situation is unless you tell them. Yes, it can be uncomfortable to admit that you're looking for a job, but research indicates that you are more likely to find employment through people that you know (personal referrals). Discuss with
family, friends, business associates, neighbors, and others ~ you never know where a connection might be made.

Recognize that it's probably going to take some time to find a new job and/or pursue a new career. It's certainly difficult not to become frustrated if things don't happen for you right away.
However, if you have extra time on your hands, consider volunteering for organizations that would find your experience and expertise valuable. Plus, getting involved as a volunteer may provide an opportunity to connect with others in areas that might eventually offer career opportunities.

Analyze where you are now and where you'd like to be. Take the time to really take a look at what your strengths and weaknesses are and what can truly help you move forward (or hinder your progress). Come up with a definitive action plan with a time table and specific steps as to how you're going to get from "Point A" to "Point B". Write it down and make a serious
commitment to accomplish your goals. Hold yourself accountable for doing what you say you're going to do.

Necessity… the mother of invention. ~ Plato. This may be the perfect time to re-invent yourself, consider a new path or pursue your passion. Based on how thoroughly you complete the
"analyze" step mentioned above, you may find that you have strengths that you have not yet fully tapped into. Think "outside the box". Also, consider how your experience and expertise
may be transferable to another industry, different from the one you've been working in.

Springboard by way of an opportunity that might not seem like it's leading you in the right direction. In other words, you might overlook a good prospect because it doesn't seem like it's
really what you want to do. However, look for possible connections that might not necessarily be readily obvious to you. Regardless of the outcome, spending time learning something new, or expanding an existing skill set, is always time well spent.

Look for more tips next month (TRANSITION).

NEWS FOR YOU!

ARTICLES by Members

Article by Michele O'Brien

American Women Video