Sometimes a job is just a job (and other career lessons learned) -- Career Center Blog

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December 28, 2011

Sometimes a job is just a job (and other career lessons learned)

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By Michelle Goodman
NWjobs

This will be my last post on NWjobs. In the three-and-a-half years I've been blogging on this site, I've learned countless lessons from the workers and career experts I've interviewed, as well as the many readers who've taken the time to comment on my posts and email me their feedback. Following are six of my favorites:

1. It doesn't take much to be memorable in an interview. Sometimes drawing a simple picture of how you can help the employer is enough. But making a winning impression isn't something you can wing. Practice is a must.

2. The fatter your virtual Rolodex, the easier your job hunt will be. What's the first thing employees do when they hear about an opening at their company? Email everyone they know about it. Know more people and you'll hear about more jobs.

3. Technology is a job hunter's best friend. Thanks to social media sites like Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook, there are more ways than ever to find hot job leads, investigate companies you're interested in, and chat up hiring managers.

4. Thinking like an entrepreneur is a must, even for employees. The days of coasting in the same position for years on end are long gone. If you're not constantly proving your worth on the job, your position could be the next one cut.

5. Sometimes a job is just a job. It may not be our grand passion or life's calling. It may just be a way to put food on the table. There's no shame in that. In fact, there's something to be said for work you stop thinking about the moment you clock out.

6. Everything's negotiable, even in a tough economy. Studies have shown that many workers would take a pay cut in exchange for a more flexible work schedule. Employers may not have the money to give you a signing bonus or tuition perks. But flex time and telecommuting are benefits that cost them little to nil. Don't be afraid to ask for what you want.

Thanks for all your support over the years, and best of luck with all your career endeavors in 2012. If you want to stay in touch, you can find me at @anti9to5guide on Twitter.

Michelle Goodman is the author of "My So-Called Freelance Life" and "The Anti 9-to-5 Guide." E-mail Michelle at mgoodman@nwjobs.com