Chicago native seeking guidance and advice.
After 15 months of unemployment due to the pandemic, I accepted a bridge position to help get back into the workforce. I've recently started pursuing other job opportunities, hired a resume writer and will confidentially reach out to my connections (via phone or email).
What's the best approach to articulating my brand when I'm having these discussions?
I'm anxious to transition to another role but want to ensure it's not another bridge position. What's worked for you when you landed your best job opportunity?
Alternatively, does anyone know of recruiters in the Chicagoland area who works with those in the meeting & events industry? Any feedback, comments and success stories would be greatly appreciated!
feedback- practice in the mirror (it's not there just to show how you look, where the make-up goes, or how white and aligned your teeth are). Laughing out Loud When you are introducing your brand- express it clear and with the same ideology of the passion you have for it. Don't be nervous for whoever you are approaching with your brand isn't there looking for a right or wrong answer, instead they are observing for an understanding of the message behind the product. and last what works for me might not work for you, but I can still say introducing a tiny bit of humor breaks the ice of being in an area of discomfort due to suits, ties, collard crisp and hair does that look as if the person didn't sleep for two days straight.
Confidence and believing in yourself is key. Do not be afraid or intimidated by competition. Everyone has their unique sense of communication and building skills in human interaction can lessen the anxiety of meeting and greeting new people. Get into variety of book reading from poetry, to short stories including kids' stories, to bohemian and culture, to how to create an oasis at home and etc. one major importance is to make sure your mood is relaxed and ready.
Be sure that your resume is tailored to each position, and not a boilerplate co-written with your resume writer! Also, be sure to use language from the position description in order to get through algorithms in automated systems. Good luck!
I can't speak directly to a bridge position but I do think you can integrate it into your story - how it's even helped you become stronger in ADDITION to your previous work experience (in the roles you wanted to be in). I think you have the opportunity to not only speak to it as a bridge position, but how you gained positive experience from it (and maybe a new perspective?) that makes you the perfect candidate for the roles you really want. Goodluck!