Job Search - Support Group

[ReneeW]

It sounds like there are a number of members who are hoping to find new jobs this year! Maybe we can start a thread with job hunt advice, encouragement, vents, etc.

My only reflection at the moment is that it's such a long, trying process. Although the economy is doing well, it's still really hard to find those "right for me jobs." And then when you DO, there seem to be hundreds of applicants. If you somehow manage to get through the automatic screening process and HR calls you it's a miracle!! ANYWAY, I've been trying to be intentional with my on-line applications, using the phrases and terms that appear in the job description in my resume and application, networking with people I know, all of that. Although when you're juggling work, family, life, and other obligations it's hard to find the time to seek out jobs and apply in the first place.

How are you all doing with this? Any strategies or advice?

[dara1012]

I was just thinking the other day we need one of these! Thanks for starting it.

I am unfortunately no help in the strategies or advice department. I am seeking a new opportunity for the first time in 13 years. Yikes! Online applications didn't even exist the last time I was looking (well maybe they existed, but you know what I mean).

I have applied for jobs intermittently since this fall. Not even a single call from anyone. Just automated responses that I wasn't what they were looking for. This weekend I didn't even find a single job that I was interested in that I met the qualifications for. It is depressing.

Since I am not even 100% sure what I want, or if what I want is out there,I am trying to focus on self-care and mindfulness in this process.

My friend (who is a licensed psychologist) has started a business called One Moment Center (check them out on FB). And on Sundays she is doing Intentional Well Being. I am trying to get to these sessions to help with the self-discovery process of employment seeking. Unfortunately coming up short on childcare this week, but I will figure out a time to get there.

Here is the description of the session:
Group practice sessions providing a mindfulness based approach to connect to your intuitive voice and identify desires fostering balance and fulfillment in your life. Intentionally choose to "be on your own side," as Rick Hanson Ph.D. would say. Listening to your intuitive voice; where are you lacking acceptance, self-care, or finding difficulty making progress towards what you are passionate about? Break through the blocks keeping you from doing small, daily self-care that keep you grounded to take steps towards your long-term goals for a meaningful life.

She is also doing other workshops on Listening In & Clearing Fears.

I figure these sessions can only help the cause. But like I said, needing to find childcare and balance it with other obligations.

[apryllraye87]

I agree with Renee that working key phrases of what they're looking for into your resume will help. A lot of times when jobs receive many applicants they will use computers to auto-screen the apps and they look for those key terms.

Another huge part (which isn't always possible) is networking. Meet as many people as you can and ask for references. It helps a ton!

[ReneeW]

Thanks for the input! Deb, that session does sound really beneficial, especially for situations in which you want a new job and to go in new direction but aren't sure what the best fit would be.

I was going to mention that I'm reading Lean In right now -- I know it's been out forever but I just haven't had a chance to read it. Can I say that I am LOVING it and it couldn't come to me at a better moment. It's all about how we as working women have these external and internal obstacles that impede our success, and the author gives statistics and studies, her own personal experiences with specific challenges, and then detailed strategies to overcome the obstacles. It's awesome. I highly recommend it!!

[dara1012]

That sounds like a great resource Renee.

I am really at the phase where I am trying to figure out what I want and what is out there. I have a lot of contacts through leadership development groups and school for networking but my end goal is hard because I don't have a degree or desire for a specific type of job like Accounting or Nurse or something like that where I can ask people to keep an eye out. That's why I am trying to focus more on self-discovery and researching organizations.

Even with a job, that I mostly enjoy it's still hard to feel like there is nothing else out there.

[dara1012]

Is 'Lean In' by Brene Brown?

[ReneeW]

Sheryl Sandberg --- but I really love Brene Brown, her interview for the "On Being" podcast with Krista Tippet was amazing!

[ReneeW]

Hi Ladies, how's everybody doing with their respective job searches these days?

[Susan824]

Similar to Dara, I'm looking for a career change for the first time in 13 years. I've been at Target in a position that has changed so much over the years that it is now a poor match for my skill-set. I'm an "older" applicant, so I'm out of touch a bit. I have a lot to learn about the process and have little advice to offer. However, I can offer encouragement to others. This thread is a terrific idea. Thanks for starting it Renee.

[apryllraye87]

I have an interview for an interal position today It's a big jump, so I'm a bit nervous, but I really feel like I'd be a great fit. Wish me luck!

Good luck in your search Susan, I bet 13 years of experience is a big help!

[dara1012]

Good luck Apryll!

I went to a workshop on "Clearing Fears" I have a lot of fears with this job search and got some good tools to process them in different ways. When I get a moment and have my notes, I'll put some things on here.

Right now I haven't had time to job search. Working 50+ hrs a week and wanting to be available to friends/family on the weekends makes it tough.