Any and all traction I've gotten in my job search is because of other people. Literally. If I've made it past the filling out an application / submitting a resume stage, it's all thanks to someone helping me. Here are some of the many ways others have been generous enough to aid in my job search:
Making referrals
Sharing a job post they thought I'd like
Connecting me to recruiters
Walking my resume to someone's desk
Speaking highly of me
Allowing me to name-drop
Offering support
Loaning me a computer/software
Accepting a LinkedIn connection request
Kicking me in the behind (occasionally)
Giving advice
Proofreading my resume -- Shoutout to my local print shop for catching a typo and saving me from a job searching faux pas!
Sending a note of encouragement
Liking, commenting, or sharing on my LinkedIn post
Visiting my portfolio website
Sharing my resume, portfolio, or card
Giving me opportunities to use, grow, and apply my skills
Being a reference
Reminding me of my goals and dreams
Being kind
Sending good vibes
But here's the thing about help: you have to ask for it. Don't be afraid to ask! The worst that can happen is they say "no" or ignore you, but you still put yourself on their radar in the process of asking. Most recently, this help came in the form of letting me use the study room for free because 1) no one else was signed up for it, and 2) I asked. I made myself right at home by taking down their art and hanging up my ring light, haha.
Job searching is hard. Job searching during an uncertain economy is harder. Job searching when making a career pivot is the hardest.
All of this to say... If you have the chance to help someone along their career journey, TAKE IT! If you don't have the chance, find one, create one! Steal an idea from my list above!
One of my favorite things is when someone reaches out to me for advice on their career journey. I've had a very diverse work history, so this advice varies from music to event coordination to graduate school. It doesn't matter how busy I am, how they found me, or if I think I can help - I always do what I can to help another discover their career sweet spot and make it happen! It's an easy way to pay it forward on behalf of those who've helped me. And I've found that "career karma" always comes back around right when I need it.
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