Terrence Seamon's post Dead Wood, No Passion hits the mark! At a picnic with friends, a friend/hiring manager was lamenting over the lack of passionate candidates. Sure, there are lots of unemployed seekers, but he couldn't find one with a fire in their belly. So the recommendation made is to look inward and outward. How are you coming across? These are the recommendations of Terry:
"Positive Energy – Although it's a bummer to be out of a job, you can't let it drag you down. Somehow you must master your outlook. Stop holding on to the past. Let go of the banana. Remind yourself that you are still intact, that you still have your strengths. Focus on your objective. Focus on the future.
Continuous Research – Anyone committed to their job search nowadays has to be in continuous research mode. In other words, make sure that your feelers are out for information about what's happening in (and around) the business world. If you are not already a news junkie, become one. Stay abreast of what's going on in the fields of your greatest interest.
Problem Solving – The employers that you would like to work for have problems. Do you know what they are? Do you see yourself as the solution? Can you convey that to them?
Lifelong Learning – When an employer looks at you, do they see Miss Havesham (the Dickens' character from Great Expectations), someone whose clock stopped years ago? Or do they see someone who is learning, trying new things, experimenting, and ever curious about the world?
Passion – Finally, let's look at passion. What is it? And how do you display it in your demeanor? Passion is strongly felt love for something, that shows up in your eyes, your face, your gestures, and your voice. You can't fake it."
My friend "John" had that "it" that made him enjoyable to be around. He was positive, open to new opportunities and for the most part inquisitive. John is an engineer and was recently recruited and landed a splendid job in a far away state. It is happening! It will happen for you too!
Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success.