I used to love the old Patty Loveless 
song, “…life’s about changing, nothing ever stays the same…” Remember that song? I often find myself humming that song when I think about how life isn’t meant to stay the same. It is about how we respond and react to change. Seeing change and lots of it – in the economy and job market these days reinforces for me, that life is about change and the choices we make while change is happening.
This leads me then to think about job seekers and the different choices they make that directly lead to the success or lack of success in their job search. I talk daily with job seekers and it is easy to spot those that will find jobs quicker than others.
Success isn’t about their education or professional experience or even who they know. It is about their attitude and the choices they are making.
I love working with the client who is excited to complete work on their resume and is actively strategizing, researching and networking while we work on the resume. Their outlook is strong and positive and motivation is high. There isn’t any blame discussed and carried around like I see many candidates doing. The only thing that blame does is hold back job seekers from being productive.
They choose to hold on to the ill feelings of blame and resentment – complaining to anyone who will listen. It tells me and anyone else within ear shot that this candidate is carrying lots of baggage and treading water instead of moving forward with change and opportunity.
Instead of blaming past employers, past employees, economics, job market, government, family or anyone else they can think of, stay focused on what you can change and what you have control over. Some people naturally see the glass half empty, some learned to think this way. For those that do think this way – practice looking for the good in everything. It will help in your job search and in enjoying life in general.
Having a positive attitude while job searching will be reflected in how you address contacts, hiring managers, recruiters and those asking for your help and may determine the outcome of your search. Choose wisely and work at keeping your focus on present happenings and future goals, not on blaming the past for your current situation.
Shine on job seekers!!
