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DEALING WITH THE AFTERMATH OF SEPTEMBER 11TH
Q: I live in New York and have been working in human resources. However, after the terrorist attacks I lost my job. I haven't had many interviews, and all I really want to do now is move out to the West and get into sales. What must I do to make this career change?
ALISON ANSWERS: If you really want to make major life changes like these and have truly thought them out, that's fine. However, since you didn't say that you had been contemplating a career change or geographic move prior to September 11th, I am wondering if your plans are more of an an attempt to escape from the awful events of September 11th, than a bona-fide interest in changing your career.
Fleeing to another place or moving out of an industry that seems less than open to you right now will temporarily divert your pain and frustration, but you'll be taking your situation with you if you don't stop and confront your inner feelings, first.
Change is good, but only if you're clear on what you want, and why. If you want to move out West, ask yourself: "Do I really like the lifestyle where I'll be going? Will there be support systems for me if I need them? Am I familiar enough with the lifestyle to know that I'll enjoy it? " In addition, if you were reasonably content with your job and career before the attacks, ask yourself: "Am I just frustrated by my current job search? If I continue looking, am I as likely to find a job in my current field as in a new one? Am I certain I will like sales? What experience and skills can I bring to a sales job? Are there be lots of sales opportunities where I am hoping to relocate? Do I have contacts to help me where I'm going? Will my savings be enough to live on if I have to work at less salary or commission to get started? "
To be a success, preparation for a major lifestyle and career change takes careful consideration and planning. Some places seem far more enticing when you're just visiting. Living there is a different story! I'm assuming you have targeted a geographic area to move and are familiar with it. If you're not, make a few visits (or stay at least a week) and see if your feelings change. Chat up residents, go to local spots and envision yourself there, long-term. If it still feels right, at least you'll know what you are in for!
If the job market is tight, you might consider moving first, but staying in a field where you already have credentials, while you build up contacts in sales. Whatever you'll be doing, send your resume to prospective employers there informing them that you are planning an exploratory visit to their area and would like to arrange an interview during that time. For a long-distance job search, advance contacts are especially important! Be aware that almost no company will pay for your travel costs. Still, if you don’t scope out the realities of the job market before you move, and don’t have any interviews prior to that move, you may find yourself someplace new, with few good career prospects.
If you really want to move into sales, there's no reason to move halfway across the country to do it. You might consider remaining on the East Coast a while longer, but trying to get some sales experience while you contemplate a move.
Most importantly, I urge you to take time to really think your feelings through. It's never wise to make radical changes just because you're frustrated, angry, or trying to escape from an upsetting situation. Be sure of what you really want, and it will be much easier to make a plan and see it through. It's also important for you be clear and focused if you want to be able to convincingly explain your situation to prospective employers. If you can easily, confidently and enthusiastically tell them why a sales career entices you and how your existing experience will be useful in your new career, you'll clear up possible objections and make a much better impression. Revamp your resume to emphasize your assets as a salesperson. Impress employers by learning in advance about the company and industry in which you're applying. Demonstrate how curious and excited you are about working hard and learning more. Emphasize about all the organizational and project management skills you used in your last job, even if you don't have specific experience using these skills in sales.
If you're already frustrated by the length of your job search today, keep in mind that unless you have good contacts in your new geographic area and in your chosen new field, you'll probably be extending the length of your job search even more. It would be helpful for you to do some financial planning first, so you know you can pay the bills, no matter what.
If, after all this, you're still not sure what you want to do, some career counseling sessions might help you find the right focus. Whether you eventually do move, or you decide to stay where you are in remain in your field, don't forget to network! Most jobs result from person-to-person interaction. Take advantage of your college's career center and alumni network and even others you know in human resources. It's a good bet that you know at least one person who has worked in sales, or knows the job market in the area where you want to live. Use your contacts not only for networking connections, but for feedback, support, and to gain perspective. Ask others that you respect to review your resume and cover letters. You will gain information that can help you make all your job hunting presentations more powerful and effective.
Losing a job and dealing with the aftermath of a tragedy on the scale of September 11th is a lot to handle, and has affected many people in different ways they've never imagined. If you are still really confused and upset, some in-person professional counseling is essential. If you can tune into your feelings, this experience can have an UP side, too. For example, September 11th mobilized me to begin the THE METROPOLITAN TRIBE . Many others I've spoken to have re-evaluated their lives and careers, re-examined what's important to them, and are now moving forward towards more satisfying lives. You can, too!
Alison Blackman Dunham, aka. "Advice Sister Alison, " is a life & career expert, online advisor, freelance writer, and creator of The Advice Sisters online publications. "The Advice Sisters®" are credited with bringing the advice genre, online. If you are seeking advice of any kind, this website is the right place! If you have a question, dilemma or problem that requires personal attention, consult Alison privately. Also check out The Advice Sisters Features Page with the latest additions to the site. Read the Advice Sisters Blog and enjoy the Bulletin Boards and Forums. For even more advice, inspiration and up-close-and-personal reviews, information and reports, get the free, bi-monthly AdviceSisters Enews by Email.