Imagine having consistent good fortune. What would that be like? Let’s see…You lost your job—not the end of the world, you'll find a new one! You always look great in white and serendipity seems to be your best friend. Nice way of life, right?
I consider myself a pretty lucky person and I know others who seem luckier than I. Then there are those poor souls for whom nothing seems to go their way. So, I began to ponder, what is luck and how come some have it and some seem to repel it as quick as a wink?
What is Luck?
Discovering your luck is about EXPECTING it, CREATING it, IDENTIFYING when opportunity knocks at your door, following your GUT INSTINCTS, TAKING RISKS and looking at challenges from a POSITION OF POWER and not from a victimized perspective.
How is it that some job seekers seem to attract career opportunities easier than others with the same qualifications and the same job search tools? Is it really just luck? Let’s see…
Unlucky job seeker statements: The economy is so tough. There are so many qualified people out there. Recruiters are mean to me! How could this be happening to me? I am worried this is going to take a long time. Can you cut me a deal since I really can’t afford it? And my personal favorite, how soon can I get back to you if my resume is not working?
Lucky job seeker statements: Can’t wait to get this resume out there. I feel so much more confident now with this new resume. If I post this resume every day, I will be sure to get ahead of all the other job seekers, right? I will do everything I can to speed up this job search process. Coincidently, I just reacquainted with my old colleague …
Do you see the distinction? Clue: Attitude, expectation, energy, enthusiasm, and focus on the goal! Yes, these are very difficult times right now for many job seekers but focusing on the challenges instead of on a ways to overcome them is not going to change your luck or attract the right employment.
Make Your Own Luck
A must read on this very topic is How To Make Your Own Luck by Daniel H. Pink. In his blog, he quotes psychologist Richard Wiseman:
"What are some of the ways that lucky people think differently from unlucky people?
'One way is to be open to new experiences. Unlucky people are stuck in routines. When they see something new, they want no part of it. Lucky people always want something new. They're prepared to take risks and relaxed enough to see the opportunities in the first place'”
Do you agree with the statement above? And if you don’t, isn’t it still worth a shot? Allow me to provide you with a few tips so you spark your good luck and begin to reverse your unfruitful job search. Yes, practical steps for a totally magical transformation!
- Create a Job Search Road Map: Creating a job search plan is a pragmatic way to ignite your luck. A navigation tool with detailed action steps, a clear and defined job target, along with job search tools (resume, cover letter, reference list, thank you/follow up letter, job search methods, networking strategies, and an online presence). Luck favors the prepared they say.
- Be Flexible and Take Risks: While a plan is in order, don’t employ a tunnel vision. Work toward your plan but be open to the idea that there may be something else or another way of getting to your ultimate goal. Consider temporary assignments or even relocating if need be. Change industries; try a different side of the coin.
- Be Observant and Curious: Come up for air once in a while and notice others. While you network be present and see if you can assist. When you are focused on only what you can gain, you actually fail to notice wonderful opportunities that are right under your nose. Investigate further on leads that may not seem so attractive at first -- you really don't know where they may lead you.
- Expect to Win: Self-talk if you must but bank on your success and not your failure. Practice saying, “Once I have my new job I will...” This is not new age nonsense. This really is a great way to keep motivated. I know that by the time you finish reading this post you will feel more positive. (See, I just practiced it.)
Last, when things seem not to go your way, make a lemon margarita!
As always, if you have any questions, please email me at rvargas@creatingprints.com or call 303-600-8603.
Rosa Elizabeth Vargas
Master Resume Writer
www.creatingprints.com
