Executive Job Search Series -- The Write Thing

    

Earlier in the week, we talked about the need to "get over it" after losing a job and prior to beginning your next "job search." Here's some more guidance to help you "get over it!"

Get Over It Pt 2 Do the Write Thing ImageAre you thinking on paper? I believe this is not only vital to your success, but your sanity. I'm convinced that you can't solve the "big deals" in your head. In addition to the many writing exercises I recommend like daily goal setting and mindstorming, I want to tell you about another one that is beneficial to anyone who is feeling resentful, angry or full of self-pity.

This is something I always suggest to the recently unemployed, but it is applicable to anyone who just needs to "purge" themselves of some negative emotions. There are basically three steps:

  1. Get a journal or some paper (or maybe a notes app)--If you are recently laid-off, it is important to rid yourself of the "toxic" feelings you might be having so that you can begin preparing for your next great job. Start writing. Write all of the vile, derogatory, $%&* words you are thinking and feeling. Get this "emotional soot" out. Rid yourself of the "emotional hangover" and write for as long as you need to. Only stop once you have gotten back to your positive, caring, "a player" self. Sort of like an old-time water pump. When you first start, the water comes in dirty slugs, but as you keep pumping, you get to that clean, clear water. CAUTION: Be sure the journal is kept from prying eyes and that your significant other knows this is your "sacred" place to be "less than the model citizen" you are day in and day out.
  2. Write a gratitude list.--Yeah, things might be a little "gray" for you now, but I am confident you still have a lot to be thankful for. What is it? By writing it down, you will be reminded and most likely your spirits will rise.
  3. Write an accomplishment list--Often, we feel "less than" when we are "let go" from a job. But, just start writing down all of the things you have accomplished or done at your various jobs. I am confident you will be amazed and you will begin to feel that "fighting spirit" return, as you decide to pick yourself up, dust yourself off and start hunting your next great job or career. This exercise will also come in handy as you prepare to update your resume.

Improve your state of mind prior to job hunting--ALWAYS DO THE WRITE THING FIRST!

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About The Author

Ron McNutt is Senior Partner at RMi Executive Search in Charleston, SC. RMi provides executive recruiting and executive coaching for companies in the Carolinas, Southeast and across the United States.