K.I.S.S.
on the art of job hunting
3 clients this week. All tied up in knots with contradictory information they read on line from ‘masters’ and ‘gurus’ and ‘award-winning’ coaches and resume writers. Which reminds me to remind you - always look for the source. Go to the site from which someone is purportedly receiving their award. Frankly, checking citations is good advice for anything you read or hear online.
Back to the humans I got to work with this week. Smart. Funny. Accomplished. Varying degrees and background and industries. All are ready to move on from a job that is no longer fulfilling.
They’ve been half-heartedly applying to jobs that “sound good” and aren’t hearing much of anything after submitting resumes to the easy apply site.
Getting worried that there is something wrong with who they are as a human and an employee they start searching online for answers. That’s where they get all gummed up. One site says there is a hidden job market. Another says to put a picture on their resume. The third says no way-no how to putting pictures on resumes. Rest assured if this has happened to you, you’re not alone.
One thing I love about working for myself is flexibility. For instance, I can take an afternoon each week and head to my Local Yarn Store and knit and crochet with a group of talented crafty people. This week chatter turned to holiday gift making.
“The gift I get remembered for year after year? Washcloths and hand towels.” I said.
For a second, all 9 heads stared at me.
I knew what they were thinking. Washcloths are about the most simple thing you can make - whether your knit or crochet. It’s usually a first project for someone who is learning the craft.
In other words, for most of us in that room, they are BORING.
We wrack our brains and search Pinterest and Ravelry for gorgeous, intricate blankets and gloves, sweaters and hats to bestow on those in our lives that are “knit-worthy.” We start planning in July and work to create a masterpiece to gift to those we love. Those recipients are grateful. Still they remember the dish cloth!
Your resume and job hunt is like that simple and useful dish cloth. It doesn’t need to be fancy. There is no requirement to go out of your way to hide special words or write elaborate cover letters. Don’t worry about includng 30 years of work experience in one page.
Instead, Keep It Simple Sweetie.
Simplicity comes from knowing exactly where you want to go - and why.
That’s it.
Want some help? Schedule time to meet here. (remember, paid subscribers get discounts)
Question!
Are you up for another Q&A group coaching call this month? Some members tell me that July is time off and others say they are rarin’ to go. Let me know your thoughts in the comments or send me an email. (Peggie.Arvidson.Careercoach@gmail.com)
As always, you deserve to be happy at work.
Hugs,
Peggie