Tap into Your Passion

by Gina L. Hall - Nov 13, 2009

We've all had our emotional ups and downs, and experienced "hitting the wall". The feeling of why me, anger and shock. We feel like we did something wrong, getting quite a whammy to our self esteem in the process. We're mad because we didn't see it coming. Now what?


Like most of us, I liked the security and low risk of working in corporate America.

Focus on Your Passion

The first mistake made by the unemployed is that they don't do what their passion is.

Develop that something that describes what you do. Define what "turns you on" and gets you going in the morning.

Create a 30-90 sec description so you can tell someone about yourself. Keep it concise. It should describe what you do, where you do it, and where you are headed.

When you meet someone, remember to say...

• "I'm looking for {industry}. Do you know of anything or people in the same industry? I'll call you on {date}." Take control, rather then waiting for them.
  
• "Can I send you my resume, in case you hear of a lead?" Consider their suggestions when they offer comments about your resume.
• "Can we stay connected? How about every 2-3 weeks?" If they hear no contact from you, they'll think you've found a job.

After you find employment, remember to thank everyone you talked to, to be thankful for the altruism they showed towards you.

Throughout the searching process, know what you're looking for, and make sure you stay connected.

Your Own Business?

Not everyone wants to start their own business. Looking back, I would have never considered where I would be today.

If you're thinking of starting a business, you need to ask yourself these questions.

• Will I make as much money? Probably not.
  
• Will I be fulfilled? Definitely.
  

You're on the Journey

When you've hit the wall. It's normal to think this is not working, even though you're well connected. You have to work at it, and move on.

Nobody's going to make it for you.

Don't take a job just to make ends meet, if you can help it. You won't be happy, and will just be looking to leave right away to find something better.

Have a "To Do" list to overcome depression. Some other coping strategies to consider include...

• sports and exercise activies
• spiritual guidance
• meeting and networking

Interview Tips

Be aware of the moment and how you want to present yourself when talking to prospective employers.

• What was the lesson learned?
• You're a good candidate. You have experience.
• You can re-schedule a phone interview.
  

During interviews, don't talk too much. Know your shortcomings. Logical people tend to tell a story, intuitive ones are too creative, and those with feelings will talk about themselves.

Think about how long you talk when answering a question. Do you talk longer than necessary? Check with your spouse or a close friend. Above all, try to remain in the moment, and stay focused.

If you're overqualified, how do you respond? Ask them why? They're assumptions may be all wrong. You could say...

• "I'm considering a different career path."
• "I want to do something different."

If the interviewer offers you a drink, always say yes. When answering a particularly difficult question, you'll have extra time to think when reaching for and later taking a sip.

Before the interview is up try to get these three questions answered.

• "What is the normal process (next steps)?"
• "Who will I be hearing from?"
• "When? If I don't receive a response by {date}, could I give you a call?"

The last question will help you determine if you're still in the game or not. Be sure to call back in a week if you don't get a response.

Didn't Get the Job

If you were on the "short list" and didn't get the job, write back after 30 days, telling them of your interest with future opportunities. The person who got your job may not be working out.

Don't burn your bridges. Ask for a recommendation, since they may have peers within the industry.

Personal Challenge

Google yourself, to check for objectionable material. Know that recruiters and your future employer will be doing the same. Clean up your online presence.

Be creative.

Turn the interview into a collaboration event vs. point counterpoint discussion.

Focus on your passion (three skills) as opposed to being a "Jack of All Trades" during the interview.

Conclusion

Remember what your passion is.
Define and articulate it.
Remember people along the way.

Speaker Bio: Career Coach and HR Consultant