Going Beyond and Above

This is a website dedicated to the job search. But it’s not always about mechanics; sometimes it’s personal.

Today is the twelfth anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. For me, it began like most days, but that day I was called to present our department’s accomplishments to a group of strategic business partners at 8:15 AM, which was earlier than usual. I regarded this early as a small sign of my dedication to the job.

Not too far into the presentation, the group was alerted about a plane hitting the World Trade Center tower. What followed next would, of course, change our view of the world forever.

To this day, I am in awe of the dedication and selflessness of the first responders, who acted in service to those in need, without regard for their own consequences.

So, to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice, I would ask that you offer up a prayer for their loved ones. They made a sacrifice, too, although they didn’t know it at the time.

In honor of those who performed with excellence that day, in service of others without strong self regard, I would encourage you to give your very best in your job search. Then, when you land your next great opportunity, continue your habit of excellence and service.

This approach may bring about many benefits, including:

1. Recognition by your boss, your co-workers, your business partners and your customers as a strong performer, a valued partner and an honest business partner;
2. The aforementioned recognition will add to your self-esteem, and if done in the true spirit of service, should not similarly boost ego or self-pride;
3. Satisfied with a job well-done and appreciative co-workers, you may gain a greater sense of peace in your family life, and begin to undo some of the residual negative side effects of an involuntary job search.

Not too long ago, I gave a presentation on practical wisdom from several modern business authors. One of those quoted was Tom Peters, who is best known for his classic bestseller, In Search of Excellence. Mr. Peters is passionate about the subject of excellence.

After reading, actually listening to, his recent book, The Little BIG Things – 163 Ways to Pursue Excellence, I can still reflect strongly on his signature quote of “If not excellence, what? If not excellence now, when?”  These are sage words which we should take to heart, and then implement in our lives.

When we live excellent lives, we influence others to do the same, through our example. If we then reflect upon the job search, and pursue it in an excellent manner, as Tom Peters suggests, we may be happier, make others around us happier, and odds are that we will also achieve excellent results in the process.

If we take this one step further, and act in an excellent manner in our new job, we increase our value to our new company. In turn, we reduce the possibility of encountering another involuntary job search in the near future.

So, please, in reverence and gratitude to those dear souls who served us excellently in sacrifice a dozen years ago, look for ways to seek excellence in your job search, in your family life and your friendships, and in random acts of kindness and charity to strangers. You’ll be better for it, and so will we!