Moving forward: Expecting the Unexpected!

I came across the following piece and thought it was great:

http://www.cornonthejob.com/career-advice/expect-the-unexpected-harrison-kratz-shares-details-of-his-journey/

Basically, no matter what you do, keep your head up and work hard! Your motivation, regardless of your position, can lead you onto your next big thing.

Maybe you are not enjoying your current job or you are just about to give up in your search. DON'T STOP! There is much speculation to whether or not, "it is easier to find a job when you already have one." This is a bit tricky, and the truth lies within your own personal situation: are you financially stable? If you live check to check, losing your job can be devastating. Therefore, keep your job until you can replace it. Also, if you ended employment, it can be difficult explaining why you are no longer employed at your interviews; this can be a red flag to potential employers.

Keep working in what you do have, but look at other opportunities. There is no rule or formality that says you can't get a new job at any given time! The only reason you need to move on is that you "found a better opportunity." It happens more frequently with displaced and shifted and underpaid workers everywhere. Many companies feel that they're at the top of the food chain, and that they can pay less than before, though I do not think that is reasonable; if you underpay, that person is going to jump ship on the first good opportunity that is 5 miles closer or pays $5k more a year! Take advantage of this yourself.

Is company loyalty dead? Well, it is not a question of loyalty so much as are you getting what you are giving. If not, maybe it is time to look elsewhere.

Still on the job hunt? Don't dispair! You just need to keep looking. Also, get yourself immersed in something else, be it a hobby, side project, part-time job or even volunteering. This can help you prepare for your next step too, and employers will value your motivation and work ethic on the side, as well as your ability to have a successful and healthy work/life balance.

Also, if you're still searching and not having much luck finding interviews, its TIME TO CHANGE! Change your resume, or start a linked-in profile to begin networking with people you know or have connections with. Just do something to get yourself out there! Pretend you're a sales person trying to make the big sale, because in reality, YOU are your only salesperson, and the service you're selling are your own services!

Also, consider getting a resume professionally written. Yeah, it is somewhat pricey, but think about how much money you will make because you ramp up your job search and increase your chances at finding a better fit with a company that really hits the spot for you!

Just keep moving forward; if you're motivated, you will find your place.


-Alex
(and feel free to ask questions!)