Listen to the Calling

In my last article titled “Networking With a Purpose“, we spoke about being selective in your choice of networking activities during job search.  We also discussed the consideration of going to a place that may take you out of your comfort zone to find new networking opportunities and provide comfort during job search.  Here’s an example I wanted to share. 

In 2010, I was in job transition and balancing my time between job search and active networking.   I joined up with a local job search work team (JSWT) and learned  very quickly the importance of growing a healthy network and the power of giving back.  I began to understand the value of quality time spent during transition and knew I would be challenged during an interview to speak to how I filled in the gap between jobs.  I had no idea that one particular volunteering  event during that long summer would have a profound impact on my life.

I was part of a local HR transition networking group and was made aware of an upcoming career conference event called “Life After Spinal Cord Injury: How to Compete in Today’s Workforce” sponsored by the Kessler Institute.  They were searching for HR professionals to give of their time and expertise and I signed-up as a volunteer career coach to assist with resume review, employment search, and workforce readiness.  I was a little unsure not knowing what to expect but I agreed to go.

When I arrived at the conference, I was one of only a handful of volunteers that didn’t arrive in a wheelchair.  Not surprised, I understood what I signed-up for but it had a much different impact when I arrived.  I sat and listened to several panel discussions which included personal stories from working people with spinal cord injuries and how entering the workforce with their disability can be daunting and overwhelming.  They offered encouragement and discussed how it’s all about their ability not their disability and how to deal with common misconceptions on the obstacles they face and the fear they felt as they seek employment.  They continued to focus on the methods to overcome their disability in job search.  As I listened, I began to collect my thoughts and think about how fortunate I am.  Here I am as a mature worker struggling with the competition to find a job.  How could I possibly feel at a disadvantage when Americans with disabilities are experiencing a jobless rate more than 80 percent higher than the rest of Americans?  That was pretty riveting for me.  I spent the rest of the day listening to the attendees personal stories, answering questions about job search and offering assistance to help them move forward in their career. 

I often think back on that volunteer event and reflect on its meaning.  Networking in an unfamiliar place brought me to a new way of thinking.  I expanded my network of new contacts and the experience provided a huge mental boost to my confidence and a new perspective, especially towards people in tough situations.  That confidence became a great consequence of volunteering  as it reminded me of my ability to do constructive things. 

There are many organizations that could use your help.  We all have God-given talents for which others could benefit.   All you need to do is ask and be prepared to step in and do what needs to be done.  The radio silence in job search can be very frustrating.  When you offer yourself in service to others, a response will follow.  You will not be disappointed as you respond to the calling.

Bob Weingartner is a Career Coach and the owner of WEINFIVE Career Coaching, a niche business focused on assisting career and job seekers in attaining their career goals.  You can reach Bob at weinfive@aol.com or www.weinfivecoaching.com/