Recently I found myself in the “unemployment line” or I should say “on Line” in the unemployment line. I had not actively searched for a job for many years. The last time I really had made an effort to find employment was back in the 1980's. I've been steadily in the work force ever since.
Looking for work in the year 2008 is a whole new ball game. The newspaper was a major source of employment opportunities back 20 years ago. Now the newspaper is the least likely place to find a job. The internet has opened up a whole new world out there. I have run across many sites to search for positions; technology has taken us to a whole new level of searching. “Posting” your resume on line has the potential of reaching thousands of potential employers.
I start my morning by purchasing a newspaper, old habits die hard. Of course I must purchase my Tim Horton's' also. Next, I check my computer for e-mails from people that may have read my resume from all the websites I am posted on. Then, there is always “cold calling”. I was always a proponent that if you desire a place that you'd like to work, call them. One of my most treasured positions in the past was obtained by a cold call. I chose someone I wanted to work for, was hired, and enjoyed that position I secured for over 14 years.
Looking for work is not only time consuming but emotionally draining. It is an emotional roller coaster. Throughout the day, hopes ride high, only to be let down later that day or the next. Then there are the potential employers that string you along for weeks. There are placement agencies that claim they have the perfect job for you and others that want to “charge you up front”, to find the perfect position that suits you. I guess they don't really understand that when you're unemployed, you have less money to spend.
Searching for a job gives you lots of time to retool and reflect on what types of positions could make you feel more fulfilled. Maybe it's time to redo the old resume and focus on other skills that have not been used in the past; It's a time for self examination. There are some beneficial points of being home; my house has never been cleaner. My family has reaped the benefits of trying new recipes that I have come across on the internet, while I have been surfing for a new job. Dinner is ready at dinner time, and not later that night this happens when you work uncertain hours. Laundry is done on time, no running out of clothing. But I have to admit, being home for a short time is nice but gets very old after a few weeks. I am the type of person that must keep busy all the time. Cooking for me is done to survive only, and cleaning is not at the top of my priority list. I'd rather be out and about contributing to some productive career position.
Continuing to be self motivated can be an effort in itself. Constantly finding new potential websites and tracking down potential leads is a job. It's very easy to become complacent after some time has elapsed.
I continue to rise at 5am as I have done for many years. I am the eternal optimist; always thinking that tomorrow will bring new opportunities my way. Keeping a positive attitude comes through when tracking down potential opportunities and can only help in making my job search more successful. I believe positive energy is contagious and can only help in my search for the perfect job.
