Optimism vs Fantasy
In order to get productive leads (operative word being productive), it is necessary to be clear about what you are qualified to do and actually competitive for in this market. Using casual language to explain what you want or need, typically leads to wild goose chases and lots of tail chasing.
People have called it “optimism” when they speak of their “dream” job to others. My position is, when you are unemployed in a market like this and you oversell yourself, it is “fantasy”, not optimism. Most people truly want to help, but they can’t if you haven’t been honest with yourself first.
Describing the role you aspire to obtain, rather than describing what is really likely and possible, only delays your moving forward. There is much less likelihood of rejection if you consider the low hanging fruit, and it could be your chance to get yourself headed in the right direction. To be clear: low hanging doesn’t mean rotten – it means within your reach.
If you have been unemployed for longer than you like, then it is time to make a change in your thinking and your strategy (or lack thereof) :
Get real. Stop your wishful thinking and take action where you really can make a difference.
Do your homework. Be aware of what employers are really asking for when they post job descriptions.
Know your competition. Be aware of what you are up against and what it will require to be considered a competitive candidate.
Set goals. Being real doesn’t mean giving up or going in a ditch. Setting goals for getting to where you really want to be, with a plan to get there, helps ensure that you will stay on track.
You have to get off the bench first. Once you get back on track, you can then use your optimism to move you forward.
What’s your next move?
after getting off the bench and actually doing something, it’s important to step back and evaluate the results. Stepping back should not be used as an excuse to relax or slow down. It’s needed to make sure you’re moving in the right direction. RG
Absolutely! It is important not to get complacent when you take that first step, but stay focused on what will take you to your goal.
Thanks, RG!
-Sherri
Hi Sherri,
This from your blog:
“Describing the role you aspire to obtain, rather than describing what is really likely and possible, only delays your moving forward.”
This is so true, not only in getting a job but also keeping a job; and, even growing in it. I have not put myself in the position of “fantasy”; but, I have witnessed it happen. It can become discouraging if not devastating.
On the other hand, what one aspires to can be attained when the possible has been accomplished. The opportunities to grow in a job, especially in this market, can be remarkable. Employers’ budgets and needs are such that the employee can shine when using their talent and experience with that little extra effort and enthusiasm that often makes a big difference.
Here I can give my present position as an example. My lab position started out as a “B-“position. It gave me an opportunity to return to Western Washington, which I longed for; and, something extra that I did not recognize when I started. That extra was an opportunity to prove myself in the arena that was most important to my employer and to lab teamwork. It was a role that I did not particularly cherish, but soon recognized that accomplishing it would give me better opportunities and substantial standing as a team member.
With that accomplished in six months; other opportunities opened up. Not because of the single accomplishment, but because accomplishing it, also boosted my confidence level. These things cascade as accomplishment leads to opportunity, leads to accomplishment. Small steps, but within two years the opportunities blossomed and the position has become very close to the A-level that I would like. Keeping your eyes and ears open helps too.
I like the “Get Off The Bench” mentality.
Good Rule of thumb: Action Beats Reaction.
IE: If your responding to a post… you’re reactingIf you are making contacts and seeking opportunities… you are on the right track!