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JOB HUNTING IS LIKE ONLINE DATING

Morning coffee routine

Over coffee, my friend shared her online dating perspective with me, “When I show up for dates, if it goes well – fantastic! If not, then I have a new business contact.” I think she’s onto something.

As a current job-seeker, I’m eager, open to possibilities, and have a diverse background. I find myself torn between going steady with a reliable job or temping around. Plus, finding a job is very different now than when I first looked so I struggle with my approach vacillating between looking myself or using a service (don’t get me started on bar mixers).

For some companies I have created profiles detailing my positive qualities and hopeful work “must-haves.” Many limit your choices.  I post a friendly picture and if my profile has the key words that tickle HR’s fancy, I’ll get a “Wink” or “Joe Bossman is interested” email.  What I usually get are spammers who want money wired to their accounts immediately.

I primarily look myself, or trust my friends to set me up with something great.  I gather job listings and groom my resume to reflect what they are looking for hoping to land on top of the prospect list.  I never lie about my past, or change myself into someone I’m not to land a job, I simply speak their language.

At this cross-roads, I’m debating if I want a full-time, predictable job where I can build a foundation, grow together, have an on-going impact and create a long history.  I’d love the regular support of benefits, investment in my advancement, coupled with appreciation from their end of my faithful dedication to the company.

But get real, this is the 21st century.  Sadly, many marriages and jobs last only 4 years.  Living in a city where the possibility to freelance seems great (just a feeling, no statistic), perhaps I want the novelty of living for the assignment, constantly meeting new people, pushing the boundaries of my comfort zone.  Aren’t we all more daring when we know that it’s short-term?

Hopefully, as with dating, the job will come when you stop looking and are least expecting it – since I’m blogging, not searching. What’s currently working for your search?

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