Be the Change Agent

My Job Hunter's Tip of the Day on LinkedIn today is: You are never not 'in transition.' Get used to it. Be the change.

Let's break that down.

Some years ago, the phrase "in transition" was coined to describe the condition of the unemployed. They had lost their prior job, and were seeking a new one.

In theater, actors that are auditioning will say they are "in between shows." In Hollywood, they say "in between films." For musicians, they say "in between gigs."

So, being "in between" jobs was described as being "in transition." Transiting, if you will, from one point to another.

Yet, when you think about the idea of being in transition, ask yourself this question: When are you never not in transition?

Too many negatives in that question? How about like this: In life, aren't we always in transition of one sort or another? For example, ageing. Every time we celebrate a birthday, it's a moment in time when we are marking a milestone in our ever-unfolding transition from birth to death.

So, in that sense, we are always in transition.

If you buy the above argument, then what are its implications for job hunters? Number One, when you land, don't make the mistake of thinking that transition is over. It isn't. It's just continuing to unfold as before.

In a practical sense, this means:

Keep on networking. Do not turn off your networking engine. So many job hunters make this mistake. Then, when the next downsizing occurs, they are caught flat-footed.

Stay vigilant. Continue to be on the lookout for opportunities in your field. You never know when you will need to make your next move.

Keep your resume current. At all times, do not let your resume gather dust. This point also applies to your LinkedIn profile. Talent hunters are still on the prowl and you want to be found, even if you are working.

Keep learning. Never stop exposing your mind to new ideas. Challenge your own comfort zone. Keep pushing your own limits.

One of the lessons many job hunters learn from the experience of being thrust into the nebulous land of "In Transition," is that whatever happens next is up to You. You make your own luck.

Be the change agent of your career and things will happen.

Terrence H. Seamon is an organization development consultant who provides leadership and team development services to employers in New Jersey. His forthcoming book Lead the Way explores the challenges of leadership. Additionally, Terry is a job search and career coach whose book To Your Success provides a motivational guide for anyone in transition. An alumnus of PSG, Terry co-founded and co-moderates the St. Matthias Employment Ministry in Somerset, NJ. He can be reached at thseamon@yahoo.com and via his website: http://about.me/terrenceseamon