I want to tell you about my mom.
Just over two years ago, my mom was desperate for a change. She had been with the same employer for nearly 35 years but she was overworked, disrespected and unfulfilled.
She also had never put together a resume. Or applied for a job online.
She was nervous to see what else might be out there. Uncertain that there could be value in leaving behind the known for the unknown. Could the grass be greener somewhere else? And if so, was it worth the risk to try?
I knew there was something more satisfying for her. I helped her navigate the online market and encouraged her to reach out to her network of professionals. Together we crafted a resume that landed her multiple interviews and ultimately a great position where she is respected and appreciated.
To get my mom comfortable with change, I had to tackle a few mindset blocks. Before opening up a blank word document to craft a resume it was critical to address her thoughts and fears.
I learned three lies she was telling herself. These lies were kept her stuck and ultimately afraid to consider new opportunities.
I have been here too long to change
There is something to be said for putting in the time. Thirty-five years is no small feat and loyalty is rewarded with benefits including vacation time, vested status, first choice of paid time off and more.
Habits become ingrained over time as well. The routine, even if its not a fulfilling or satisfying one, is comfortable.
According to a 2018 Department of Labor report, the median tenure of workers ages 55 and over is 10 years while its only 2.8 years for workers ages 25 to 34. This data varies based on factors like occupation, industry, and education level but the trends are consistent.
This evidence shows job changes occur at a more rapid pace now than twenty years ago. It would not be uncommon to change every five years with no negative impact on employment history.
I’m afraid to learn new technology
This is a big one because a new environment means not only new people but new equipment, new processes and possibly even new technologies.
Tech can be scary. It changes rapidly.
Don’t let the fear of technology hold you back. Every job has some level of training associated with it. It is expected to have a certain level of skills and abilities in order to land the position initially. Hiring managers also expect to teach you anything that you don’t know as part of the onboarding process.
An adjustment period is expected.
Everywhere is like this
Actually, it’s not. It’s hard to see the forest through the trees but look around. Talk to friends or colleagues. Your feelings about your work environment are legitimate.
If you think something isn’t quite right in the way you are treated as an employee you are probably right.
Do your due diligence and speak with supervisors to address your concerns. Or seek guidance from HR or another trusted professional in the workplace. But if after time, you don’t see any change, it is likely that the company culture is not a good fit.
Culture is a corporate buzzword but its also an indication of employee satisfaction. Not all cultures are the same. And not all employees have the ability to influence change, as you have likely learned by this point if you are considering a change.
Get Over It
Once I addressed the mindset barriers, we moved to the online search process to view vacant positions along with their requirements and expectations.
The job market research provided the needed confidence boost to put herself out of her comfort zone. I showed my mother that she already had the skills and abilities required for what she desired from a functional standpoint.
It was up to her to determine if she had the confidence to go after her desires from an emotional standpoint.
I helped craft a resume and navigate the online application processes. She received multiple interview requests and ultimately chose a place where she observed a supportive leadership team and quality treatment of all employees.
A Turn of Events
More recently, my mother saved a mans life.
She noticed a running vehicle with its doors open outside the hospital where she now works. It remained there for a period of time with no movement so she went to check it out.
Inside, a man was unconscious behind the wheel. She called for help and despite the man coding on the way into the building, the team of essential workers was able to keep him alive in ICU.
She shared this story with me, unwilling to take any credit. She felt guilty for not noticing him sooner. But what she did was special.
She paid attention.
She noticed this vehicle and followed her gut instinct. All strengths of hers that we used to craft her resume and things she spoke about during interviews. Even when it was uncomfortable.
The man survived but has not reached out to express his thanks. Her employer however did.
A week or so after, my mother received a handwritten letter from the hospital leadership commending her for her efforts. For going above and beyond.
I’m so proud of my mom for saving this man. But I’m even more proud that she stepped away from the safe choice and was in this position.
When you think it’s not worth it to try something new, remember this story. My mom will say it was not a big deal. But I disagree.
She was ready for bigger and better.
No tells no lies about her abilities or fears, and truly understands the value of positive workplace culture.
