Be Fearless. Not Foolish.

As a Career Counselor, Recruiter, Employment-finder, I work with an incredibly diverse population of job-seekers; Recent Graduates who tossed their tassels virtually, seasoned Administrative Assistants, experienced Marketing Managers, Veterans. I am not only grateful to be in a position to help, I am consistently delighted by what I learn from each of them every day.

However, I am alarmed by what seems to be a new trend. Several times in the last few days (let's remember we are only 6 days into the New Year) I have heard "I called a few times this morning and followed up with an email", "after we connected, I forwarded my resume, my cover letter and listed all the positions I applied for in the past 4 months" and, the best, "I applied for two jobs, sent a message on LinkedIn and then found her on FB and IG, so I requested invites there - I also got lucky and tracked down her info, and left a voicemail!!"

Uh, no?

I understand that your resolution includes 'the fearless embrace of the job search' but this should not include dismissal of good manners, professionalism, common courtesy. The rules of the job search will always include consideration, thoughtful outreach, intentional communication. Can we include a little more patience this year?

I absolutely champion the 'face-on' approach to the challenging task of finding a job. I am a huge advocate for tireless research, the obscure connection, the middle of the night reading of related information to make a cover letter pop. But, (and this 'But' has a bunch of !!!! attached) your renewed sense of purpose cannot be intrusive, unprofessional, or memorable for all the wrong reasons.

Do you want to be Fearless in your job search in 2021?..Do your research and find positions that compliment your skill set (stop worrying about the title and apply for jobs that sound like who you are). Ask for more help (who do you know that you haven't reached out to before?) Increase your follow up with those who are helping you in a targeted, intentional manner (keep in touch with those who are helping you, if you 'drop off' they probably think you landed a job - don't worry, they won't tire of you, stay with it). Take the part-time job or temporary gig you would not have considered a year ago (nothing is what we thought it would be so build that resume!).

Bottom line: 2021 should be a Fearless everything. Your sense of confidence, your job search, your approach to the best things life has to offer. But don't be Foolish - don't pound on the door, scream in the ear, text, until you're blocked.

Fearless is not Foolish. Always remember the difference.