Did you know that employers are now using social media to find their next hires? Social media has become the fast and cheap way to conduct a background check. It is also a way for recruiters to seek out emerging talent.
Before we get into the meat of today’s discussion, I want to set some intentions for today and beyond, especially for those of you who are on the job search. I’ve discovered that my hunt for work is partially practical (what I have done in the past) and partially behavioral (driven by what I think).
Some of you might be here because you haven’t found work in a few weeks. Some of you might be here because you haven’t found work in a while. Regardless of where you have come from, it only matters where you are going. The important attitude to have here is that your ability to find work is going to be an inevitable outcome. You cannot think any other way.
We live in a world where asking for help is shunned upon, and in reality, nobody does any of this alone. I’ve built communities around the job search and field questions daily from interviews to offers. While Googling for what you need is absolutely something you should do, it’s important to find yourself the right communities that will give you what you need. Don’t shy away from help.
We live in a world where messages like “love what you do and do what you love” are top of mind. The reality is, we live in the Bay Area where it’s expensive to even pay rent. If you need to find a job, put that first. It’s okay to not have your paycheck be your passion.
Many of us feel vulnerable about our job search. Much like asking for help, we hide away from others because we feel shame for not working. The truth is, as long as you are moving forward in your career and doing the necessary work to move ahead, there is no reason not to feel vulnerable. Finding work is tough in the Bay Area, and everyone should be commended for doing so. Showing up is first and foremost.
I get it. There’s a lot of fear around the direction of our country. Puns aside, I don’t like him either but your ability to get a job does not hinge on him being in office. You are still in control of your own future no matter what. This is the perfect time to own what is your career.