Keep Your Go-Go Juice on the Burner Today!

Good Monday morning to you! But then, you might not be saying "It's not so good", more like, "rrrr and brrrr and more rrrr". As most of us know, the US is experiencing an Artic Vortex across over 25 states and the temps are " *enough to freeze your face off degrees" (*saw that recently in a web cartoon and thought it was quite appropriate). And that's no joke...poor folks up in Minnesota can experience up to -65 temps with the wind chill factor that can cause frostbite to any exposed skin within 5 minutes of being in the open air...OMG! So...I'm hoping everyone stays indoors and watches out for big ships floating in! It's every reason to keep that Go-Go Juice on the burner all day to stay hot! Well, we're one week into the New Year and I'm hoping your year is off to a great start! Mine is...I got a job and am moving the family back to Ohio! It's an awesome opportunity with a great company and I can't wait to get started. But not so many are so lucky!!! In fact, many are going to hit rock bottom again once unemployment benefits end if they hadn't already and it's going to e 2008 all over again. That's about the time I started writing my blog - actually more like 2009/2010 after I went two years with no job. I've been there folks, so I know the pain, the challenges and yet, you just can't give up! So, warm up your favorite Go-Go Juice, bundle up in a comfy blanket, take a nice deep breath and let's review some ideas to change it up a bit.... First and foremost, remind yourself about all the talents and passion you have to offer? Think I'm kidding? Nope! Get a piece of paper and write down all the things that make your heart sing. When times get tough, we get desperate and start going after any job, anywhere that will render a paycheck because the bills have to get paid...right? Wrong. I'm not talking set yourself up for a dream job...I'm just pointing out that as we search job vacancies and apply to jobs that don't match you, your past experience, or are in line with your goals, the HR person or hiring manager will totally see that and you are less likely to even get an interview. They'll sense you're applying just for the paycheck. Now, you can find an employer who doesn't care and may hire you regardless...but chances are, the job will not be as rewarding, you probably won't be treated so well and not last very long before either you quit or do something stupid to get fired. So, no matter what stay on track to your goals. Now, maybe, once you've identified areas you fit better into, but there's no job openings - what to do then? Look for volunteer opportunities. Why? One, you're not being paid anyway...you're not doing anything other than job searching and quite frankly, you're likely to run into negative complacency or just plain depression. Your mind truly needs to functional and your emotions filled with new environments, projects and social stimulation. By volunteering, you're contributing not just your time, but you - your passion, your skill and knowledge. Plus, your giving a company or organization the opportunity to see you in action. This will be helpful for future paid opportunities in many ways. And, if you're volunteering to do "something" in line of your skills, past experience or goals, chances are, you'll find the volunteer job painless and rewarding. Now, I don't suggest volunteering 40 hours of your time, but try 10-15 hours a week. How do you find such opportunities? Call or show up to the place you'd like to work and speak about joining the team. Offer the idea to the HR person or hiring person...they may have not considered such a thought. Do realize, that some companies aren't hiring because revenues are down and they're trying to cut the labor cost...but, "free labor"? Trust me, more will raise an eyebrow to the thought...and the best thing is...you can't lose with rejection cause...it's not paid anyway - so you don't feel as bad as if the job came with a check. Second, consider trying something new...all together - still within your line of interests. This is a bit of re-inventing yourself. Let's say you’re an IT Developer or Network Troubleshooter...ok. Basically, you're skills revolve around computers, data and wires...you're used to a particular position and either work for companies or contract yourself out...how about offering training? If you're the one who's done the work, surely you can train a group of people to do the same. You could look for "Training Jobs" or start up your own business...this is just an example. What about a Waitress of a restaurant...this is all you know, but you're not getting anywhere with restaurants....look at what you do as a Server? A Server provides customer service, stays organized, cleans, preps food, handles multiple duties simultaneously, maintains knowledge of food temperatures, plate presentation, manages cash and credit card transactions, stays calm in hectic environments, maintains effective communications with guests, staff and management and plans ahead. In some diners, Servers have been known to even jump on the line and perform some short order cooking - there's more skills learned. So, still out of a job? Take those skills and convert them into something else...front office clerk, grocery clerk, secretary, personal assistant...see where I'm going with this? Third - network, network, network. I highly recommend joining LinkedIn. What's that? A huge online network site for professionals. What if you're not a professional? Ummm...here's my opinion...whether you're in a line level or Entry Level type worker or you're an executive, you're still a professional. I expect all my staff members to be professional regardless of their pay grade. In addition, if you present yourself as a professional, see yourself as a professional and work like a professional, others will treat you the same. And on LinkedIn, you'll have access to hiring managers, HR people and get connected to folks who can help you build new relations that may finally lead to the job opportunity you were seeking. There's also groups available that can provide a lot of insight that you can learn from. What about local network activities in your community? Call your Chambers of Commerce and ask about Network opportunities available to local residents...it's a great chance to meet local business representatives who one day, may need you. Developing new relations is the greatest thing to open new doors to new possibilities. Plus, it helps keep you sane! If there's anything I can attest to is NEVER EVER GIVE UP! Giving up only gives yourself an injustice, plus the people around you and those whose live you cross. You are here for a reason and impact each of us with your talent, your passion and your experience. So - keep sipping on your Go-Go Juice and get movin'! I know I for one, am looking forward to your successes in 2014! Have an awesome (and warmer) week!