Job Etiquette: Will Powerball End My Job Search?

How many of you thought about this in the past few nights? A few people will actually have this as a reality. If you were not one of the lucky winners, guess what? The search continues. Did you dream about what you wanted to do like paying off debt, travelling, or buying a home?  These goals are shared by the rest of us who did not win the jackpot.  Dreaming is nice but don’t let it halt your search.

Sometime people dream about what that perfect job would look like. Does this sound familiar?

  • My supervisor is the best.
  • My supervisor is flexible, kind, understanding and a clear communicator.
  • My job is a fast commute from my home. I could walk to work!
  • I can work from home 4 out of 5 days per week (even though I practically live next door.)
  • I have unlimited time off.
  • My benefits are all paid for by the company.
  • I get along with all of my co-workers.
  • My job encompasses everything I want to do in my area of expertise.
  • My salary is off the charts (even though it’s the job that is most important to me.)
  • I never want to go home, it’s so great.

In order to have it all you will have to win the Powerball lottery! However, you can come close as long as you are realistic in your expectations. Think about what is important to you in terms of compensation, benefits, location and fit. Be prepared to talk about the people you work best with and what type of supervisor or employee you are (from past experience). Be prepared to talk about your interest in the job, field and why the company appeals to you. You might be surprised at how any job can become a dream job if you add the reality factor to your search. That also means be realistic about what you do and what the job specifics are.  If they are not exact or a change, explain why you are applying in  a cover letter and if you get the interview be explicit. Many skills are transferable while others make no sense at all.  Be real about yourself, your expectations, talents and limitations.

Don’t forget to bet on that next huge lottery, after all it’s nice to dream!!

Talk soon.