Back In It

So, it has been quite some time since I have "blogged" or podcast or journaled or what ever you may call it. Basically, I have been all consumed with finding new, meaningful, employment. Oh, I still am employed, but I wouldn't really call it meaningful. Other than, it pays the bills and keeps a roof over my head.

But, it seems like a good enough time to start back into blogging. This could be a nice diversion from the daily grind of the job search.

I have to say, the methods and market have changed considerably in the last ten or so years. I've been with my current companies sine 1998. Yes, that's right companies. We were first acquired as a start-up, went what felt like a re-org a year, and then went through a "merger of equals" with a 40/60 split.

Way back when, a recruiter was more like a real estate agent. You gave them the specs for your job and your credentials and off they went. Networking with their recruiting and corporate connections to find opportunities for you. Much like a real estate agent will do the leg work for you to find "the perfect home", or at least rule out those where mass murders were committed in the basement.

Now a days, it is totally in the job seekers hands to find the job. I've got a lot of experience, but it's difficult to get past the gate keepers or even get noticed by the gate keepers when the only avenue of entry is an email to a blind job posting.

Don't get me wrong, I have gotten my share of calls & interviews. I've come very close to where it was done to me or an internal candidate. But the truth of the matter is that unless you can tick off every nuance and skill mentioned in the job description, landing the job is a tough nut to crack.

I tend to look for positions where it is a win/win. Yes, a phrase that is too over used, I agree. But if I have already mastered every nuance of a new position where is the personal growth and challenge for me? After all, that is one of the main reasons I started the search. Well that and the fact that it is not really fun being in a company that is continually downsizing.

Ok, enough for today.

Where ever I find myself, that's where I happen to be !