Out of Work? Let’s Play Ball

“Never let the fear of striking out get in your way.” – Babe Ruth

Full-time jobs are in decline for both men and women in the United States. I recently read an article in the New York Times about what an out-of-work experience looks like. Did you know there are key differences in in those experiences between men and women? According to the article, nonworking women are more likely be engaged in volunteering, caring for family and exercising; whereas nonworking men are more likely to read, watch TV and surf the internet.

I have compassion for the dental professionals who call me seeking employment. I hear the desperation in their voice, taste the salt in their tears and know they are feeling low with a lack of confidence. I get real with them: This is temporary. You have to get up, get in the game, and swing.

I enjoy helping job seekers come up with a plan and turn their negatives into positives. Remember — you are in control. You make it happen. Your phone is not going to magically ring with a job offer. You’re not going to get a homerun if you never swing the bat. Sometimes searching for employment can be overwhelming and daunting, so you put it off until tomorrow. Don’t wait — create a plan to find a job.

What does a Dental Temps job-seeker plan look like? It begins in the morning when you put your first foot on the floor. Get up, and get dressed like you are going to work. What you look like on the outside helps restore and build you up on the inside. It helps keep you focused and work with intention and purpose. Your hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Lunch is from noon to 1 p.m. Get the picture? If you get in the proper physical and mental state, you will find you are more energized and prepared to kill it with that first impression. Whether it be a phone interview or face to face interview, you’ll knock it out of the park!

Let’s play ball:

Dental Temps 3 Tips to Simplify and Organize Your Job Search

PREPARE

Write down your job goals, job fit, create a resume and cover letter, work on your personal branding across all social media.

SEEK

Apply; Follow-Up; Network across job board; connect with recruiters, dental sales reps, local dental society, study clubs, professional associations, etc.

CLOSE

Interview, Follow-Up, Negotiation, Orientation

Remember each day is a new one. You have a fresh, new start when your feet hit the floor every morning. Dress and go to work at your kitchen table, and follow your job search plan. You may be out of work, but you have a full time job – now let’s play ball!