Use job setbacks to improve and make you better
"Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance …"
-Proverbs 1:5 (NIV)
It's graduation time and newcomers are ready to hit the job market. Searching for and maintaining a job can be challenging. I'd like to share a few tips I wish someone would have shared with me, when I was starting out.
You may think you've finally made it and can put the books behind you. Now it's time to learn to interview, and market yourself. There are many great books or internet articles on this topic. This is a valuable skill you will need when going after your dream job.
Communication and social skills should always be something you strive to improve. Whatever your profession, you need to know how to relate with people. If you work with children, teens, adults or seniors, each have assets and needs that differ. Also working with the sick and disabled population requires extra patience and empathy. Books on relationships can help you glean relationship skills. Movies dealing with your profession can also be valuable as you watch the characters perform their jobs with the skill it takes.
Be humble and learn from bosses and co-workers, but don't lose your values or authenticity in the process.
Practice makes perfect. Experts say it takes 6 months to 1 year to learn the responsibilities of a new job and feel comfortable. If you're feeling insecure, just keep working toward your comfort level.
I enjoy true stories of other's failures and successes. One of my favorites is about Steven Scott. When starting out he failed at nine jobs. A friend suggested he study the Proverbs in the Bible. Two years after doing so, he gained relational skills and financial wisdom. He became an entrepreneur and a millionaire. Twists and turns occur. Sometimes it takes a few jobs to gain experience or even know what you like. Don't allow setbacks to make you bitter. Use them to improve and make you better.
God expects us to have intellect, but we need His guidance as well. Find the balance of intellect and instinct. Things aren't always as you expect them to be. Learn to let God be your guide.
• Annettee Budzban is an author, speaker, life coach and nurse. Annettee is speaking at Our Redeemer's United Methodist Church in Schaumburg, Monday June 11. To attend, call the church office at (847) 882-6116. Contact Annetteebudzban@aol.com or (847) 543-8413.