In career move, think before acting
In career move, think before acting
Q: I'm in a career transition. I know why I want to leave my job. I just don't know what I want to be doing next. I am feeling lost. What should I do?
A: Hang on. Don't leave where you are until you know where you're going. And you're making progress because you know what you don't like and why. Flip that over and you'll have the answer to what you do like and where you'd like to go. For example, if you don't see value in the work you do, then you know you want to commit your time to work that has value. If you think you're in a job that has no future, look for employment sectors that are doing well. If you're bored with details and need to be part of the big picture, find work that invites your ability to see beyond the current and the obvious. If you're still in the dark and need a light, talk with people who share your interests, instincts and values. Their help will be as invaluable as it is illuminating.
Q: I interviewed on a Monday morning and got a form letter in the mail that same day thanking me for interviewing and informing me that they had selected someone better fitted to the position. I have no problem that they found someone who was a better fit. I have no problem with a form letter. I do have a problem that they invited me to interview, made their decision before interviewing me, and saw me anyhow. They were disrespectful of my time and blatant in their insensitivity. I'd like to complain. How can I get the word out?
A: You just did.
Q: How long should you wait before calling to find out the status of your interview?
A: Send a thank-you letter immediately following your interview, being sure to emphasize your strong interest in the job as well as your ability to do the job. Then, face foward and keep looking. Employers know how to find you if they want you.
Q: Is it better to get your foot in the door even if it's doing a job that is less than you are capable and for less money, or keep looking until you find the right job?
A: There's no one answer because it depends on your situation. For instance, how immediate is your need for income? How much or how little experience do you have? Are you continuing in the same job, or changing careers and industries?
Let's take them one at a time.
If you have bills to pay and need a job now, then yes, accept that job. If you don't have experience in your field of choice and this job opens that door to you, walk on through. If you're changing careers and starting over, and want to learn the ropes like an apprentice, take the job. If this opportunity exists at an organization where they promote from within, where relationships are valued as much as or more than profitability, starting at an entry-level job can pay off. Take the job.
On the flip side, if you'd accept the position because it's a quick and easy compromise with your better judgment, then keep looking - you're not there yet.
Q: My son lives at home with us. He can't seem to find a job. We want to be loving and supportive of him, but this has been going on for several years. What can we say to be more encouraging?
A: Several things come to mind but they all sound like this: "We love you. We'll always care about you but we'll no longer financially support you. We'd like you on your own in 60 days." And stick with it.
Joyce Richman is a speaker and career coach conducting seminars and workshops throughout the United States, and the author of "Roads, Routes & Ruts: A Guidebook for Career Success." You can reach her at 288-1799 or JERichman@aol.com. Watch Richman's latest career advice Wednesdays at 6:35 a.m. during "The Good Morning Show" on WFMY News 2 at http://www.digtriad.com/business/columnists/career_minute/. You can find this column online by visiting TriadCareers.com and clicking on "News & Tips."
