THE CHASE IN REVERSE

As an older worker looking for specialty projects and other ways to help organizations get better today, the search for that work is up to me. It is in my hands. In times past, as a hard-working manager type, companies and managers sought me out on a number of different occassions. It was fun! I thoroughly enjoyed the chase. After the chase came the negotiations, and I enjoyed that phase too. As I got older, I understood my worth and my value, and sought out a compensation plan to coincide with that value. Being a sought after industry leader made for wonderful times, provided great work options, and helped support an inflated ego.

Thank goodness I have grown past the feeling that I or my ego were very important. At the same time, because of my age, and my interest in coaching work, I am no longer being chased by any manager or brand to become a full time member of a team. As a 1099 I look for short term programs where I can serve an organization by making them better in any number of ways. The chase now is in reverse. I must reach out, look for organizations that are in need of the things I provide, and then put together a program that fits the needs of the organization. There is no doubt that being chased is much more fun. At the same time, having several work successes behind me, knowing the value of what I can bring, and offering all a low cost to value program, I have something unique to sell.

As an older person, whether you are looking for a new full time career gig, a part-time job, or consulting work, create a plan that builds your visibility. Because of the changes in the economy, us "older people" are not looked down upon in quite the same way as a few years ago. Organizations need people with skills. They need nice, reliable people that can get the work done, with quality, on time and with people skills attached. Convince yourself today that you will be bold and aggressive in your efforts to find new work. Be persistent as things change constantly. Know there is work to be done, so spend the time to search for the companies who can use your skills, then figure out how to fit yourself into their square hole with the aches & pains as well as grey hair included. Brands need what you can do.....so go and work on your chase......and persist until you win!