While doing some pro bono career coaching for a local organization, an individual expressed this sentiment:
Why shouldn’t I go with the flow to get ahead? What’s the big deal about adjusting my experience, job title, etc. to fit a job posting so I can get the interview? I can straighten out the record when I’m face-to-face with them. What’s the harm?
What’s the harm?!
OMG.
It depends on what you want. Do you want to get a job at any cost, or do you want to maintain your integrity?
My counsel? Have integrity and be truthful.
Think about the wisdom Harriet Beecher Stowe offers when she says to “never give up, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn.”
Your values are your compass against which you measure what’s important to you in life.
Be true to yourself.
Keeping your integrity = priceless
Sending out resume after resume without even getting an email or phone call can be disheartening. Even the most self-confident start to doubt themselves. But letting the fear of not getting a job doubt seep into twisting the facts is dangerous ground to be treading.
Jobs are hard to get right now. Consider these tips and pointers for staying the course:
- Steer clear up the lure of jazzing up your resume in an untruthful way to make your background more attractive. Be thorough in defining and quantifying your contributions. Stick to the facts.
- Volunteer. It’s a great a way to keep your skills fresh if you are having trouble finding another job. Helping an organization or individuals in need is also a pretty cool positive jolt to your spirits.
- Be open to trying new jobs that you might have passed over in better times. Don’t get into the mindset that a certain kind of work is below you.
- Don’t compromise your core values and beliefs. Avoid acting like something or someone you are not to gain a temporary benefit.
- Keep smiling, stay friendly, and stay positive.
Your time will come; and when it does, you’ll still have your integrity.
That’s priceless.
Image source before quote: morgueFile.com
