Don’t let the times get you down, stay motivated
As uncertainty in our economy increases, trade and business journals, blogs, career-related websites and a host of publications are filled with advice (mostly good) about how to survive a downturn. I am certainly doing my bit looking for and writing about tips and strategies.
Much of it is from my own experience, but recruiters, HR professionals, my colleagues and others contribute to an ever expanding knowledge base that we all freely share.
The challenge for the career counselor is distilling this mountain of advice with clients in a way that provides good direction and has personal relevance that can lead to a plan of action. Generally, if the client is candid and most are, we can help.
Unfortunately, there is one area in which some clients tend to be less forthcoming.
That concerns personal motivation.
Working with the client to develop the plan, the tools and the skills is necessary, but it is not sufficient.
Obviously, coming to a career counselor reflects a degree of motivation. Yet even after that commitment, and after building a good career or job search strategy, many hold back. Despite a solid plan, access to those tools and resources, strong encouragement and even economic necessity, some still hold back.
I have been thinking about this because an economic downturn creates more competition for fewer openings, necessitating an even greater commitment than in good times. Especially for those in industries particularly hard hit, where a career change is a strong option and vigorous action is essential, some pause, when they ought to be driving forward vigorously.
It is so very easy to get discouraged. I have two clients in real estate who work for different firms. Both have done very well over the years and seem to be equally qualified, talented and knowledgeable. One, Jack, is still doing well, but acknowledges the increasing difficulty in making quota. He is actively looking at alternatives. The other, Bill, is very depressed.
For him business is a disaster and he has no idea what he should do.
When I suggested to Bill that he put together a plan of action that includes a variety of options, he hesitated. My advice is not welcomed, and he spends a lot of time worrying and complaining. To me, his problem is a lack of motivation. Bill is sure (he hopes) if he hangs on everything will turn around.
So as a counselor I am faced with a problem. I meet with these clients, arm them with all the key elements they need to succeed, and yet they have essentially given up.
Fortunately, this is a relatively small number, but the circumstances of the times is creating additional pressure. Recruiters and HR managers echo this problem.
Too many candidates for positions communicate an attitude of desperation, rather than the upbeat, optimistic enthusiasm critical to a successful interview.
In previous articles I have discussed this issue of personal motivation. Action does not necessarily translate into immediate success. When those with whom you meet understand the pressures, but see how you pursue goals with vigor and determination it can generate a mood of optimism and support. By the same token, when the effort is clearly not there, it is both obvious and depressing for you as well as those around you.
Reluctance to move forward can inevitably result in lost opportunities and procrastination should not be confused with planning. It is true that some are very deliberate, approaching a job search much as they would a work project.< Careful planning, identifying resources, lengthy research and other steps may be normal and natural. Comparing that to people who have a more immediate and aggressive approach does not imply procrastination, as long as you set reasonable deadlines and meet those deadlines.
Even taking time off to think and get your inspiration back is fine. But let us be honest. We know our degree of motivation. We know the difference between planning and wasting time.
There is also no doubt when others are dictating your course of action or inaction, you are putting your worst foot forward. Only you have the information and background and motivation to communicate your professional, organizational and personal qualifications. No matter how well meaning others may be, they do not have the self-interest you have. The decision to move forward comes from within. It draws strength and direction from you and you alone.
A lack of motivation is often manifested in the hope that all will turn out well, so wait it out. In fact, that may happen. The problem is if there is no insurance policy that prepares for the worst, the worst may happen. That may be Bill’s fate as well.