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I am a 20 year hospitality professional with a broad spectrum of experience, ranging from sales to operations and event planning.
I also have a love for design and always wanted to start my own company but feel that I am not an entrepreneurial type individual, therefore, have no idea where to start. I have lost my job due to the pandemic and feel lost in the job market and don't know quite where to look other than in my industry. I have so many qualities to offer but am at a lost how to showcase all that I have to offer.
Would love any feedback or insight! Thank you!!
Remi GibbsMake Yourself a Priority
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03/10/21 at 3:01AM UTC
I understand your struggle. I spent most of my career in the hospitality/event industry and am still connected to it, though working for myself. This pandemic really decimated the entire industry. I've chosen to pivot and am in school for a certification that will move me further away from the industry. I don't know where you live, but there are lots of industries you could pivot to that your skills would be desirable-the senior market is huge! Also think about wineries or F & B companies. If you have time, you can look at doing some Informational Interviews with people in organizations that you are interested in. Best wishes in your search!
Jen SlagleCareer + Leadership Coach
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02/15/21 at 9:12PM UTC
I reinvented my career at 45. I went from working for corporate America to now running a successful business all on my own! You can totally do this! The amount of support and resources are truly abundant! If your heart is in the right spot, let it guide you. The universe has your back!
Shelly DeRusso Yeager
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01/27/21 at 7:51PM UTC
Thank you for reaching out Robin! I am keeping the faith that the right opportunity will cross my path. However, as a single mom, it now seems like a race against time. Hoping that choir of angles come my way! :)
Robin Hendricks, M.Ed., CECAmbition Enabler
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01/27/21 at 7:43PM UTC
Hi Shelly! I soooo relate to your post. I also have a very eclectic mix of professional experience, passions, natural strengths, and interests. And, I went from corporate to COVID-unemployed last year, too.
200+ rejected applications, 'perfect' offers that fell through, and countless pints of ice cream later, I did emerge stronger like we women tend to do :)
My advice (based on my own experience) is to take inventory of all your strengths and passions and find the thread that's running through your life. Use THAT to guide your next steps.
This was what made everything click for me. It wasn't just a lightbulb--it was a choir of angels :)) I wish you the very best!
Shelly DeRusso Yeager
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01/25/21 at 3:58PM UTC
Thank you for your feedback Sreedevi! I feel that I have considered all the questions above when looking for a new opportunity, however, getting noticed with only have hospitality background and being seasoned in the field has been an obstacle. Thanks again!
Sreedevi VHRBP, Gallup Strengths coach, & Lean-in Guru
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01/23/21 at 3:09AM UTC
Hi Shelly, you're in the right place! I cant give specific advise without knowing your interests and situation, but do browse the career forums on FGB.
Some questions to consider:
1. What do you need? Can you go back to school or do you need to find a new job quickly? Do you need flexible hours, or a certain geographic location? Be clear about what is non-negotiable for you.
2. What do you want to do? What does a great day, week, year, life look like for you? What kind of people do you want to work with? What causes appeal to you?
3. The hospitality industry gives you a range of skills and experience. Use the tools and resources on here to narrow your focus. Reach out to people who are doing the kind of work you'd like to do, and get their advice.
Good luck!
Shelly DeRusso Yeager
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01/20/21 at 3:03PM UTC
Good Morning Lisa! Thank you so much for reaching out! This sounds exactly what I need and would love to attend the webinar. I am excited to attend next week. Thank you again and have a great week!
Lisa Lewis MillerAuthor, podcaster, coach @ GetCareerClarity.com
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01/19/21 at 6:02PM UTC
Hi Shelley - I hear you on feeling like you're lost in navigating through the pandemic. I'm actually doing a webinar on this exact topic with Indeed.com next week if you're interested -- https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/job-cast-how-to-change-careers?from=fairygodboss
