“I Cannot Believe This Has Happen To Me”

A friend of mine gave me a copy of the January 2010 issue of the magazine Think – Current Issues from a Distinctly Christian View. She suggested that I read the article “I Cannot Believe This Has Happen to Me” on pages 28 – 29.


Here are some interesting facts and ideas contained in the article:


Since 2007 the US unemployed have increased from 7.6 million to 15.1 million.


How do you eat an elephant? One bit at a time.


The loss of a job is one of the most emotionally trying times a person can endure. Emotions such as confusion, betrayal, resentment, anxiety, and fear are quite common in the first few days.


There is a great deal of religious content in this article which may be helpful to some.


The following are logical steps that should be taken when developing a job search plan:


1. Make a list of people (at least 25-50) that you know who may have access to job opportunities. Make contact with them either in person, telephone, text or email. Studies show that 80 – 85% of positions are filled through referrals and not by applying to advertised jobs.


2. Revise your resume. Highlight your strengths, quantify your results, and be professional in your presentation.


3. Practice answering questions about yourself and your strengths and weaknesses. Develop what many professionals call your “elevator speech” - a 30-second summary describing who you are and what benefits you can provide to a prospective employer.


4. Be careful developing a resume and posting it on any and every job board that exists. Be selective and protective when it comes to distributing your personal information.


5. Execute your job plan during business hours. Reaching out to your network during the day presents a more professional image. Use the evening to summarize your progress and plan the next day.


6. Follow up, both on resumes that you have submitted and with members of your network. Be professional without being a nuisance.


7. After your interview, follow up with that person through a handwritten card or note. This is a nice touch and leaves a lasting impression.


8. Jobs will not fall out of the sky. Maintain a positive attitude and professional approach in your search.


9. Look toward the future. Plan for improving your position in the job world, but on the other hand, prepare yourself that you may be forced into taking a position that is less than anticipated.


10. Believe in yourself and guidance from above.


I hope you find these suggestions helpful. Please post your comments in this blog.


Thanks! Glyn