By Your Side

I love coaching. I love helping.

But I am not a full-time entrepreneur. At least not today.

As I helped people find jobs, I recently began and completed a search myself. I will soon be beginning a new full-time gig. In this search, I learned more about myself and the needs of my clients. Here is what I learned.

1) You aren't perfect. Apply anyway, because no one is.

Your skills and your willingness to learn are often more important than your titles. Some occupations have obvious hierarchies and career progressions. Many, however, are evolving continuously. Some are run by folks who have themselves taken non-traditional paths. Openness to growth is often a great substitute for some types of experience.

2) Take the interview.

Every interview is an opportunity to connect with a new person, a new company, a new sector. And it costs you a dry cleaning and an hour. You get to see different possibilities and think about questions that you otherwise have not considered.

3) "Think Globally, Act Locally"

This phrase was on about 100 million bumper stickers when I was a kid. It sounds cliched, but it's true. Our best chances and best opportunities to make an impact are often right under our noses. Availability is often the best ability. Also, your local knowledge and network can often be what sets you apart from other applicants.

I will still be coaching on a part-time basis, mostly on weekends. If I can help you, do not hesitate to contact me at [email protected].