Be an opportunist …

“Realize that ultimate success comes from opportunistic, bold moves which by definition, cannot be planned. - Baraka Atkin

You never know where a position in a company – a position you at first appear to have no interest in – can lead you.

An example.

A person I know very well was a returning mom to the workforce and wanted to work flexible hours as her child was just staring school. She was interviewed by a company for a commission-only sales position. She had never sold in her life, but the manager who interviewed her saw a spark. She took the job, made money quickly and over the span of 21 years grew to be a senior vice president of the company making a significant amount of money with over 100 people reporting to her and her team of managers. What set her apart – she was an opportunist. She saw potential. She got beyond the commission-only thing. She created her career path and that has taken her far.

This is an excellent example of opportunities that may not be right in your wheelhouse, but offer potential if you open your mind to it. I talk to many who will state that they “looked” at a job opportunity but passed because something just wasn’t perfect, in their mind. It might have been starting pay, how they were paid, hours, location --- whatever. They passed and likely gave up a great opportunity, if they were a bit more open minded and opportunistic.

Today’s market is very competitive for jobs and it will continue. The “perfect” job written just for you may not exist so it will be time to get out of the comfort zone and try something new. It might not be perfect in the beginning, or might not work – so you move on.

At least you can say you tried. You got out of your trap of a comfort zone. You opened your mind.

• Stuck trying to find a job – open up your options. Find jobs and careers that align to your personality and interests, not just your skills and experience.

• Not sure where to go – get help. Talk to a mentor or counselor or your family and friends. Just get the answers.

• Afraid of failing – who isn’t. Turn that fear into the drive to propel you. Notice how you can run fast when a car approaches you and you are about to get hit. Fear drives!

By the way – the woman I told the story about that I know well. My wife Vikki …

Opportunity knocks – be there to open the door and let it in. And thank you for reading this. –Dan

Dan Moran
President & Founder
Next-Act
Career Management & Transition Specialists
125 Wolf Road, Suite #128
Albany, NY 12205
Office: 518-261-4212
Cell: 518-641-8968
eFax: 586-279-4212
dmoran@next-act.com