Job FEAR
Mar 18, 2016 01:08PM ● By Laurie James
- It’s no secret that low oil and gas prices are adversely affecting the Acadiana job market. For the first time in decades, many local workers are facing large scale layoffs, company cutbacks and hiring freezes. The realities of an unexpected job loss can be extremely stressful, thus the avenue one chooses to re-enter the job market can make a huge impact on one’s future career. Job seekers should consider the following scenarios as they explore their options.
The proactive candidates create a flurry of activity to improve their chances of getting hired by another company. They are the champions who don’t let a single day of anxiety or stress get to them. They get their résumé updated and then start networking with key contacts who might be interested to know that they’re available for work!! They are positive about their chances, because they are prepared, armed, and ready to conquer the world!!
The passive candidates get caught up in the emotional roller-coaster ride associated with losing a job. They cry, watch TV, eat chocolate, drink wine, or maybe even take this time to re-evaluate their situation. They wonder what they might have done to cause the dismissal; they get caught up in the daily gossip of worrying about their friends; they start to bash their former employer; they definitely procrastinate in getting back into the job hunt, because of FEAR – an acronym which means False Evidence Appearing Real!! It’s the single most destructive thing that we do to ourselves. It allows us to procrastinate and “not” go after what we really want.
If you have been victim of a recent job loss or if you know someone who has recently entered the world of the unemployed, pass along this advice:- Get your résumé professionally updated. Consider it a cleansing effort. When you’re done, you’ll be proud to submit that résumé to anyone willing to read it!!
- Update your LinkedIn profile - the virtual résumé that allows ample room for you to show your stuff. Consider it a work in progress to becoming a more well-rounded you. Join some activities, get some hobbies, it’s all part of the growing process.
- Tell your family, friends, and colleagues about your situation. They are going to be interested in helping you!! (THAT IS KEY!!)
- Inventory your closet for a professional wardrobe. Ask a friend to help. This will give you the confidence you need to step out.
- Keep moving forward and don’t give up!! Have you ever seen a dog sitting on the side of the road catch a moving car.
About the Author: Laurie J. James is one of the only 16 Master Career Directors globally. She co-founded and presided over the Professional Resume Writing and Research Association from 2000-2004. PRWRA rebranded to Career Directors in 2005. Laurie has created 10,000+ job-winning resumes in her career. She is a local Dale Carnegie Performance Development Specialist, a seasoned public speaker and award-winning career image coach. Visit her at www.lauriejjames.com.
