As I look through promotional Black Friday emails clogging my inbox,I think of the throngs of holiday shoppers that will crowd the malls this weekend and how much they have in common with many of the millions of today’s unemployed.
Think about it: thousands upon thousands of stressed out, frustrated people; all moving about aimlessly, in search of a few, true, valuable opportunities.
Here are some thoughts for surviving and thriving during this season of shopping for bargains … and for jobs!
KNOW WHAT YOU WANT.
Uggghh….buyers remorse! There’s nothing worse than coming home from an all-day shopping excursion and wondering, “A pack of 10 mini-scented, sparkling hand lotions? Why the heck did I buy THIS?”
Whether you’re shopping for gifts or searching for a new job, know what you want! Don’t waste time and energy sending out resumes for jobs that aren’t right for you. Make a “wish list” and stick to it. Send out a few targeted resumes every day — remember, quality trumps quantity! Who needs a 10-pack of hand lotion, anyway?
BE STRATEGIC.
Smart shoppers do their research and think outside the box. They open new credit cards for cash back bonuses; pre-buy merchandise in advance of sale day; reach out to friends who work in retail and ask to use their discounts and shop online to save time and gas!
Smart job candidates should have a plan of action, too!
First, speak to creditors about having debts waived or restructured during this time; stay current with industry trends so you can anticipate future opportunities; stand out from the competition by fed-exing your resume to the hiring managers of the jobs you want; consider temporary, unconventional situations to avoid resume gaps, such as consulting or pro-bono work; utilize your LinkedIn network of contacts –AND their connections–to reach key contacts and decisions makers in the departments or at the companies that are on your radar!
CHANGE YOUR ATTITUDE.
‘Tis the season to stampede and pepper spray your fellow shoppers? I don’t think so! Let’s remember that this is a time to spread joy and peace…If you want to open hearts and open doors, here’s a secret: SMILE!
A smile can help you to build relationships that may be vital to your personal and professional success. When networking and interviewing, it is vital that you keep your stress and concern hidden behind a friendly, confident smile. Your smile will give you a boost of positivity that will propel you through every hitch or hardship. So challenge your negative beliefs. Dig deep within yourself and smile. It could be the first step to achieving what you want!
Please share your tips for making the best of these situations — we’d love your feedback.