We’ve all been presented with opportunities that we didn’t realize were opportunities. We’ve said no to something we should have said yes to. We didn’t pursue something we should have. I know because it’s happened to me many times. I have never regretted the things I did that didn’t work out, but I’ve regretted many things I didn’t do because I’ve talked myself out of it. So, today we wanted to talk about potential opportunities that you might be missing out on.
1. Not Being Part of the Group
When I worked for one company, a department meeting, that was to last for a couple days, was called. People were flying in to participate who I’d get to meet for the first time. Beside the actual meetings and break-out sessions we were having, we also did other activities. All of this was fine, but as a Recruiter, the things that I was working on to fill open positions weren’t stopping and I still needed to set up interviews, do reference checks, work with hiring managers, etc. One day, rather than eating with the rest of the team, I chose to take my sandwich from the conference room to my office to do what, in my mind was what I was being paid to do.
Little did I realize, this was seen to the rest of the team as being anti-social. It became a black mark on my reputation with the rest of the team. I wish I’d known how important it was to participate. It was a missed opportunity to make a better impression. So, if you’re ever asked to join the group to go out to lunch, do it. You’ll be seen like part of the team and it will help you build better relationships that will pay dividends in the future.
Don’t miss this opportunity!
2. Not Taking on a Project That was Suggested to You
We’re all busy, but sometimes it behooves us to take on extra work if it will help your team or department. You’ll increase in your reputation as a go-getter and, depending on the project, will expand your experience outside what you do day-in and day-out. It may also give you a chance to network with others in the organization, which will benefit you later in your career.
Obviously, there are times when you simply can’t take it on. Your boss will understand this. However, if it’s at all possible, take on that project. It will pay off in your career.
Don’t miss this opportunity!
3. Not Networking with People Outside of Your Target
When you’re networking with people, don’t just focus on talking to people in the industry or job field that you want to work in. I know what you’re thinking. “Why? These other people aren’t going to be able to help if there in a completely different area.” Well, that’s certainly a possibility, but you don’t know who they might know who could benefit you.
As you describe what you’re interested in doing, companies that you might be interested in working for, and the types of people that you’d like to meet, the other person will suddenly think of someone you should talk to. Networking isn’t about immediate success. It’s a long-term system. The more people you meet initially, the broader your network will become. Likewise, if someone wants to meet you, even if you don’t see an immediate connection on why they want to meet, if it’s possible, meet with them. You might be able to help them and they will be more apt to help you down the road.
Don’t miss this opportunity!
4. Not Following Up After Networking
It’s not enough to just meet people and take their business card, waiting for a time you’ll need them. You need to follow up with them shortly after you meet them. You must build the relationship so that they’ll want to help you. Also, don’t just talk about yourself. Ask about them, what they do, and what their goals are. See if there are opportunities where you can help them. The law of reciprocity will eventually work it’s magic, and they’ll call you one day about a contact they have that is hiring.
Don’t miss this opportunity!
5. Not Applying for a Job Because You Don’t Think You’re “Qualified”
People often feel like if they aren’t a 100% perfect match to the job as described, then they shouldn’t waste their time applying. Here’s the truth, in all my years of recruiting, I’ve never once met a “perfect candidate.” Each and every one of the people I’ve made offers to had something missing. When hiring managers made a decision, they had to decide what was the most important things needed for a person to perform and who, of all the candidates they interviewed would gel with the team.
Of course, you can’t just apply to everything. You need to match at least a majority of what is required for the job, but don’t write yourself off as a possible candidate. In all your communications with an employer, focus on everything where you match the job and organization. You may not be a perfect fit, but there is a good chance that you’re a better fit than 90% of the other candidates. Don’t be afraid to apply. And if you are afraid, apply anyway.
Don’t miss this opportunity!
6. Not Pursuing a New Job Because You’re Comfortable Where You Are
Newton’s first law of motion is that an object at rest will remain at rest unless acted upon by an unbalanced force. While this is a law of physics, it is also a truism in one’s life and career.
This is not to say that if you truly love your job and company, that you shouldn’t stay. We’re just saying that it’s easy to become complacent and do the same things you’ve always done. Sometimes, though, you need to take action and look for new challenges that will broaden your horizons and give you new experiences. Think about all the things that you were always interested in, but never pursued for one reason or another. Then research to see what it takes to do it and consider how it can be done. Actually doing it can be scary, but it can also be very rewarding. Don’t let fear or comfort keep you stationary. Be the unbalanced force that moves you.
Don’t miss this opportunity!
About RockIt Career Consultation Services
At RockIt Career Consultation Services, our mission is to help you discover your true strengths and use these strengths to set your course to something more rewarding and exciting in your career.
We will guide you on what job or career best suits you and then help you market yourself through your resume, your networking strategies, your interview skills, and your negotiation to ensure that you are doing something you love and are maximizing your earning potential. Throughout, we will be there to keep you motivated and determined.
We’d love to help you launch your career and encourage you to learn more about the services we can provide you on your path to a more prosperous future. With our help, you will become the applicant every company wants to hire!