People Get You Jobs, Not So Much Resumes

 The typical story of a middle-aged unemployed knowledge worker finally landing work is this:

They mourned the loss of their previous job. 

They reached out to some kind of counseling/coaching. 

They networked like crazy. The latter included sharing their leads, which weren't a fit, with other job searchers. 

Now that they are employed, usually through a tip about an opening from a contact, they are reaching out to help those who remain jobless.  

That's the pattern I again found described last night at a mini conference. The takeaway is: People, not so much resumes, get you working. 

In some cases, yes, putting up the Open to Work banner on LinkedIn does attract those, ranging from former colleague to recruiters, who can help. In other cases, those who did find jobs, assess it was a mistake to be so open about where they were in earning a living. My advice is, as with all job search tactics, is to experiment. Post the banner and observe what happens. That's just like continuing to modify your LinkedIn profile, based on feedback as well as lack of results.

Meanwhile, to return to a position of strength in a bleak hiring situation, grab a survival job or gig. The resets the vibe you give off that you are employable. That is, of value to employers.

Too long in isolation hunting for work can transform a hard-charger into a kind of withering  vegetable. That shows in everything from how you apply for work to interviews.  Once you're out there earning income, even if minimum wage, you snap back. You might even find a well-paying future in this new niche. Again, you're alert to opportunity.

For that survival job, with some exceptions, remove from credentials advanced degrees. That's absolutely ethical. Unethical is adding degrees you don't have. 

When my industry collapsed post-9/11, business for my communications boutique dried up. Broken, I sought help from cognitive therapist/life coach Amy Karnilowicz, based in West Hartford, Connecticut. 

She hammered the importance of getting a job, any job. To get that I removed the MA, Ph.D. from the resume. Was hired on the spot for a loss prevention contract position in retail. My confidence roared back. Got to talk with lots of people. Management offered me a supervisory position.

Within about eight months I had conjured up the idea for a digital business. Within 15 months the boutique I had started was grossing more than I had in the last two years of self-employment. 

Success is a mental game. Failure comes from being done in by the “committee” in your head.

Together, we reprogram your thinking. Then we change your story. And, unleash success.

Intuitive Coaching. Special expertise with transitions, becoming a solopreneur and aging. Psychic/tarot readings, upon request. Complimentary consultation with Jane Genova (Text 203-468-8579, janegenova374@gmail.com). Yes, test out the chemistry. Zero risk.

Don’t give up before the miracle.


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