On a recent holiday in my beloved Manhattan, a taxi ride brought me instant inspiration.
I flagged a cab on Houston on the eastside, got in, and tacked to the back of the seat in front of me was a professional resume announcing the job search intentions of recent LaSalle MBA graduate James A. Williamson III.
I asked, "Is this your resume?"
"Yes, ma'am," came the polite reply.
Thus began a delightful conversation. James A. Williamson III is a dedicated young man. He went right from undergraduate school into his MBA program, and moved to New York City to land a job in marketing in the City that never sleeps.
"Why are you driving a cab?"
"I haven't been able to get a job." He's been looking diligently since before he graduated.
"James," I asked, "do you have a copy of your resume?"
"Yes, ma'am." He handed it over. His objective is clearly stated at the top.
"To begin a career path with a stable corporation that will allow me to utilize both my technical and analytical skills to develop integrated strategies for maximizing company profits and expanding existing customer sales."
I gave this enterprising young man my card and asked him if his mama was a woman of faith. She is. I told him to tell her I'd be praying with her for his job search for 30 days, and I took his resume and showed it to everyone I met that day.
When I got home to Boston, there was a polite email from James thanking me for my wisdom and encouragement. He also sent me a URL for a CNN feature interview with him by John Roberts: Watch it -- he's a gem.
James has worked for Michelin and for General Motors. He's a Big Brother and member of multiple honor societies.
When asked what to do to survive until the economy improves, Suze Orman responded, "This is the time when you take your ego and put it aside." That's just what James has done.
He's driving a cab to earn money, and learn more about the city that he so wants to call home, just doing what he has to do to live, and it's time for him to do more than live. It's time for him to thrive.
So here's a shout-out to anyone who has a marketing department in Manhattan. You're missing a great asset: James A. Williamson III. He's waiting to hear from you jawilliamson3@gmail.com.
P. S. I have his permission for this post.
For spiritual nourishment, visit Susan Corso's website at www.susancorso.com.
Excellent article! This damn recession has changed everything: job availability, where to find them, and how to get the attention of hiring managers. Companies are cutting costs left and right, and those cuts are not only affecting the number of hires, it has had a dramatic impact on where--or if--companies advertise for those openings.
To those seeking employment, it is up to you to change your approach and AGGRESSIVELY pursue opportunities, whether or not they are advertised. A great starting point can be the job boards, but use them sparingly and only as an indicator of the companies that are hiring. From there, put on your detective hat and doggedly find out everything you can about that company.
As I wrote recently, "Hope Is Not A Job Search Strategy", the oppportunities are there if you know where to look...and how to get the right person's attention!! http://undergroundjobnetwork.com
Cheers...