Submitted by Victoria Andrew, professional writer and your Team Career member
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.” ~ Marianne Williamson
As a resume writer, one of the first questions we ask a new client is, “What is your ideal job?” Even though we interview high-level executives with decades of experience in their chosen field, it is surprising how many spontaneously reveal their unfulfilled dreams. Sometimes their unrealized passions contradict societal paradigms of success and/or diverge from the career evolution their original resumes convey. Yet promptly, such an impulsive confession is erased with a chuckle and air of sarcasm as they change the tone and launch into a discussion of their “pragmatic” career goals.
Even if they have captured millions of dollars in annual revenue and their achievements surpass competition, some clients still struggle to articulate their true purpose and unique value they bring to a corporation. A hiring manager may contemplate in response, “Is this person in the wrong field? Do they have a clear direction in life?”
Also, many job seekers are apprehensive of acknowledging their greatness and the marketable value of their contributions. They underplay their achievements and potential. As their resume writer, I wonder, “Are they afraid of their true power and lacking in self-worth?” Due to their modesty, they often fear taking ownership of their accomplishments. Thus, their resume is diminished and hiring managers will not realize the full potential they could bring to an enterprise.
To remedy this, I advise building a mission statement to engage in the self-assessment needed to empower a career direction and to connect with a unique purpose. A concise yet compelling mission statement may also allow you to identify companies that have similar values. It may help to better analyze the costs and benefits of a new career opportunity. Lastly, such an exercise will crystallize one’s true self and talents with integrity free of societal expectations.
The personal mission statement’s value is best summarized by the talented Pablo Picasso:
“Our goals can only be reached through a vehicle of a plan, in which we must fervently believe, and upon which we must vigorously act. There is no other route to success.”
In practicing the art of self-assessment and promotion, both your life and your career will be enriched.
Part Two expands upon this concept and offers steps for YOU to use as a guide when developing a personal mission statement.
Thank you Victoria, we all look forward to part two.
Danny Huffman, MA, CEIP, CPRW, CPCC, author, educator, and co-owner of Career Services International and Education Career Services, www.educationcs.com. He may be reached directly at [email protected].
