– The Tasmanian Devil (The Stalker): over zealous applier to jobs and obsessive ‘check on the position that I applied for’ person
– The Lion (The Ego): thinks that the level of their previous position means that the rules don’t apply to them and yes, they think they’re better than everyone else
– The “Poor Me” Possum (The Victim): blames everyone and everything else
Each of these types are carrying forward thoughts and ideas about themselves that are not helping them adjust to the reality of the new job market.
Finding a job is not easy, but sometimes we add to the problem by acting in ways that do not help others see the best in us. Note these additional types:
– The Ostrich: often due to poor choices or avoidance behaviors; this person keeps doing the same things they’ve always done but does not understand why they’re not making more progress
– The Hog: talks endlessly about themselves and what they’ve done. If people are telling you to listen; you’re a hog
– The Cat: spends lots of time chatting, resting and thinking but doesn’t really want to work and acts really busy but never accomplishes anything of value (except what gratifies them). They borrow money and make excuses for not being able to ‘close’ the deal.
If you’re a person who’s been out of work for while, try talking to a mentor. Ask someone you trust to level with you, try to accept what they are telling you with grace. Or maybe you need to just listen to what the people currently in your life are telling you. Do you know some other types? Please share. Remember don’t try harder, try different!
Gary Wood
March 10, 2011Great Post. I have been one or more at times during my job search. Your tip about finding a mentor to level with you actually was the key to finding and securing a real job.
Deborah
March 10, 2011HI Gary, Thanks for your comment. I know from my own experience that having people tell us what we need to hear (and then listening to them!) makes the difference. Good to hear form you. Deb
Michele
March 10, 2011Deb
Enjoyed this post. I’ve met many of these while out networking. I think the hard part is that most people don’t take the time to see how other people see them. Maybe this will open some eyes.
Michele
Deborah
March 10, 2011Michele, agreed. I just thought about all the different types I’ve met and then wrote about them! Makes me wonder what it is I don’t see about myself!