Outstanding in Your Field
[Note from the Proprietor: This is one of an ongoing series of posts called Scenes From a Sidewalk. Want to know what it's all about? Follow that link to read the series introduction.]
OK; pop test time! Hey, don’t worry; this one’s easy.
A little lower down in this post there’s a photo I want you to look at (click on it for a larger view if you like). Which car would you say is the most obvious one in this parking lot? (Note: if your answer was NOT “the red one”, then thanks for playing, and here’s some lovely imaginary parting gifts.)
So what does a car have to do with anything? Well…
Uh-Oh
So here’s the scene:
It’s a recent Monday morning. My boss called three of us into his office. We sat down, and he immediately gave us the unexpected news: We were to be cycled off our project at the end of the month to meet our client’s new cost reduction goals. (Once again, our troubled economy rears up its ugly head and bites us in the, er, nether regions.)
Needless to say, this was a mite unexpected, since my part of our project isn’t due to be finished until May at the earliest. I mean, sure the biz was not as robust as it used to be, but up until this moment, I had been concerned – but not really worried.
Now, all engineering firms essentially operate the same way: folks are assigned to a specific project (or projects) for a finite length of time. When the project is complete, we cycle off and are reassigned to the next project that needs our particular skill set. (It’s called a matrix organization, in case you’re wondering. And no, we don’t all wear long leather coats, dark glasses, and live in a virtual world.)
Anyway, my first thought was, OK, fine; so what’s my next assignment? And that’s when the other shoe dropped (sound of other shoe, dropping). When I called my department manager, I was unpleasantly surprised to discover there are no available openings!
That’s right folks; at the end of this month, I may be out of a job!
On Being Outstanding
Well now! To quote that great American Philosopher, Jimmy Stewart (or maybe it was Elmer Fudd), “Now THAT’S a fine how do ya do!”
Having been on the receiving end of the, er, Golden Boot more than a few times in my career (I used to do a lot of contract work – which usually concludes with the phrase, “Thank you very much; goodbye!”), the situation is not an unfamiliar one. So I know what to do: polish up the resume, fire up the networking skills, and hit the pavement!
But there’s a problem. Instead of a job market filled with opportunity, I’ve suddenly become one of many who are in the same lifeboat. And that boat’s only so big, y’know?
Anyway, what with the economy in such flux lately, and the job pipelines suddenly bein’ flooded with resumes, well, a thought suddenly hit me (sound of dull thud). Question: Amid the zillions of folks out there clamoring for attention, what’s the best way to, y’know, get noticed?
Answer: Figure out how to be outstanding! And I don’t mean out standing in your field (unless, of course, you’re a professional scarecrow).
Now the phrase “get noticed” has both negative and positive connotations. And it certainly pays to make sure you know the difference. After all, I’m not advocating you dress up in a clown suit and parade around on the corner of Main and 5th with a poster proclaiming “I need work!” (Unless you’re a professional clown, of course.) But I think you get my meanin’, right?
Anyhoo – I certainly have a challenge in front of me. But my question for you is this: So what are you doin’ to get noticed?
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Photo: Parking Lot, by Robert Hruzek
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35 responses so far
Middle Zone Musings is a comfortable place to stop, have a cup of coffee, swap a few stories and share practical ideas for the real world. I don't ask for much, just a bit of your brain every now and then. Have a seat, take a load off, and relax...
Robert,
my first reaction: as far as I know you from this blog I am quite certain that you will be noticed. I cannot imagine that someone as witty, humorous and capable won’t. My second reaction: I am deeply impressed by your post. I don’t know if I would be able to cope with possible unemployment the way you do. (draws imaginary hat)
I keep all fingers and toes crossed for you!
Ulla Hennigs last blog post..One Evening at the Movies: Berlinale 2009
Robert, as I said earlier, my prayers are with you. Your post hits the mark for so many. Part of my business is career marketing and I have been overwhelmed with business. People are panicked, paralyzed and perplexed, sometimes all at once! Getting noticed first takes an understanding of who you want to notice you. If the answer is everyone or anyone you’re going down the wrong path. Having a clear target market (just like marketing) now helps you to identify what they need, want, desire and you can get noticed by offering them those things.
Karen Swims last blog post..Love is Not on My List
Robert, maybe you could move to a state where they don’t all wear hats?
Just kidding…
Nice way to write about your recent news. What I find outstanding about you is your kind heart and unstoppable good cheer. I’m sure those things will help you to stand out from the crowd.
Best wishes
Joanna
Joanna Youngs last blog post..Do You Ever Feel Like a Stranger on Your Own Blog?
@Ulla – Thanks for sayin’ that, Ulla! I certainly think I’m a noticable fellah myself! Now, if I can just get the right folks to notice me…
@Karen – Absolutely right, Karen; the target is the key. But I’ve been there enough to know that sometimes it may be time to switch targets, y’know? That’s where the confusion comes in. When what used to work doesn’t work anymore, then it may be time to rethink the equation. I’m glad you’re there for those that need your help.
@Joanna – Thanks from the bottom of my Texas heart, Joanna! It ain’t easy to keep the sunny side up sometimes. But then again, to paraphrase, “this, too, shall pass”. God has always been faithful to keep us goin’ like the Eveready Bunny, so we’ll just see what’s up next, won’t we?
I’ll leave the career advice to Karen but if there is ever anything I can do to help keep you smiling… just say. Any time.
Joanna Youngs last blog post..Do You Ever Feel Like a Stranger on Your Own Blog?
Hi Bob,
Having spent a good portion of 2008 recovering from such a moment, I can tell you all the things NOT to do.
I’m with Ulla in knowing that it won’t be long IF that happens. About all I can offer is network with a purpose and be helpful to others.
We’ll keep you in our prayers,
Mike
Mikes last blog post..The Recovery Begins
great post, i never get tired of reading your insights, i think being outstanding in your field can open some great doors. I am striving for that goal, and i hope i reach it. thanks.
Robert, As Ulla is saying, your plucky, cheerful attitude is one of your greatest assets and will of course serve you well as you work through this challenge. It is a tough and scary work environment right now. I’m not sure anybody feels secure about their job or the future in general. Some days I wake up and feel like the other shoe is going to drop today. But times like this bring out the best in people – I’ll bet you find more helping hands, more prayers, and more opportunities than you ever imagined. I sure hope so anyway, because you deserve it.
Brad Shorrs last blog post..How Important Are Subscriptions for Business Blogs?
@Joanna – Hey, all I have to do is recall our “pizza-eating lesson” back in Chicago! That puts a smile on my face every time!
@Mike – Hey, that means a lot to me, Mike. I know you went through it recently, and I know how it feels to suddenly be freefalling without a parachute! But as I said, God will see us through, just as He always has!
@Roger – Hey, I hope you do, too! In the long run, that’s what pays off.
@Brad – Yup; it’s a daunting challenge out there these days, but I just know there’s opportunity if we can just recognize it.
Robert,
If anybody stands out, Robert, you do! I’m confident that you will get through this with aplomb and inspire others along the way. When God closes one door, He opens another. You just need to find the open door—sometimes it’s well-hidden.
Been there, done that…good luck! I know it’s scary but I’m not too worried about you. You’re obviously a talented fellow.
Jean Browman–Transforming Stresss last blog post..Whatever…
Robert,
Sorry to hear that the economic downturn may be pulling into your driveway. (The inconsiderate so-and-so will probably block the sidewalk too.)
I’ve got friends over at the railroad who can probably help you get one of them thar engineer jobs. I think it would be fun to drive a train.
Keep us updated, will ya?
George
I noticed the red car and here is why…red is a color that represents passion, energy, love. I also found out (through some research), it also represents courage which is why it is found in some national flags.
So, here is my tip…ALWAYS be passionate. Show the true colors of your heart. Show your vibrance about life. Love everyday. Never lose your optimism. Have courage to walk through a door you may have passed by. And, most importantly, remember God is always in your corner.
My prayers are with you in this uncertain time.
Peace and Blessings,
Annie
Annies last blog post..Gift of Understanding-Part 1
@Lillie – Amen to that on the open and closed doors and windows, Lillie! It’s so true. We’ll just have to see what’s what now, won’t we?
@Jean – Of COURSE I’m a talented fellow; I’ve been sayin’ that for years! And what a talent it is! Now, how to find a job where I can actually make MONEY tippin’ my hat!
@Tumblemoose – Hey, is that engineer’s job up in Alaska? I’d love to see the countryside up there.
We’ll keep y’all posted on developments as they, er, develop. Bound to be a story or two in it.
@Annie – I appreciate the prayers, Annie; they mean a lot to us. I like what you say about passion. That’s good advice!
Networking is important even when you are just being yourself and don’t realize it, maybe especially then. You will do just fine, I’m sure, in this respect. Being open to change, perhaps to moving counts as well. Expect the serendipity, and best of luck!
Terros last blog post..Ducks and Roses!
Nah, you’re good with the cowboy hat, Robert. I’m sorry for the bad news, but you should always be positive. There’s always the sunny day, after the stormiest storm, Robert!
I answered the red car!
LOL What do I do to get noticed? No idea really, the thing is, I don’t even know if people do notice me. Well, maybe I try to be different. Instead of doing and following the usual, I try and do the opposite. Although I’m not entirely sure if that will always work….
John, Make Moneys last blog post..The Easiest Way to Make Money Online Using Banner Advertisements
you are better off as I do not even have enough experience as an engineer and am amidst a lot of such issues.. your style is superb.
scarletbreezes last blog post..The History of Super Bowl
@Terro – Thanks for the encouragement, Terro; I appreciate it!
@Wilson – You’re correct, of course! That’s what I’m doin’, too – looking for the silver lining. I know it’s there.
@John – Hey, you may be surprised how many folks notice you, John! Just keep doin’ what you’re doin’, and they’ll come. Trust me on this.
@Scarletbreeze – Hey, I appreciate it, and thanks for dropping by!
Hi Robert:
When the picture was little, I noticed the red car first. But once I clicked on the photo I noticed another car, the one that is pulling out the space and MOVING. So to go along with analogy, it’s the moving car that going to get noticed.
Thanks for making me think about it…
Chris
“If you wait, all that happens is that you get older.”
~ Larry McMurtry
@Chris – Hey, great observation, Chris! Thanks for seeing something beyond the obvious!
There’s always more than one way to look at things, isn’t there?
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