While reviewing open positions yesterday I thought to myself, "You really should focus on positions that are a better match and you are more likely to stand out." I think maybe I was wearing my "economist hat" because this line of thinking reminds me of the theory of comparative advantage I learned so long ago. Instead of cost (a country/firm producing something at a comparatively lower cost), it is now about job effectiveness. The logic:
I have a financial/business education and financial analyst experience - something a lot of IT professionals do not have. So I would likely be more effective in a business systems analyst or financial systems analyst position rather than a systems analyst position for a scientific system, for example.

However, I think I will continue to apply for ANY job I think I am qualified for. And I plan to apply for a minimum of four jobs a week.
So that is my basic job search plan/strategy. And I am very happy that I have a plan because plans are important:

"A goal without a plan is just a wish."
- Larry Elder

"Always, always have a plan."
- Rick Riordan

Of course I still need to plan for the worst. I am working on that plan.

"Expect the best, plan for the worst, and prepare to be surprised."
- Denis Waitley

"Don't wait until you're in a crisis to come up with a crisis plan."
- Phil McGraw
 

My Journey through Unemployment

I work up this morning with the bright idea to blog about my current unemployment situation - my journey through unemployment. I plan to put those words of wisdom or life lessons from the Lessons Project (http://www.facebook.com/lifelessons1) to good use. The blog should document how easy or difficult it is to apply the quotes, advice etc. at a crucial time.

Today, I am trying to keep my thoughts positive. I started my job hunt just a week ago and so far, no calls for an interview.  At this point, I hope I will find a job soon, but there is some fear. What if it takes months? What if I run out of money?  It is difficult to have only positive thoughts at a time like this.

I recall quotes on positive thinking such as:

"I think if you just look at life in a positive way, positive things will happen."
- Jake Owen

"With everything that's thrown at you, whether it be problems at home, problems at work - whatever - basically, if you remain positive, you can see your way out of that."
- Sean Paul

And the bible verse:
"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
(Romans 8:28)

So I know I should get those negative thoughts out of my head. And so I think of all the positives:
- I quickly updated my resume, obtained letters of recommendation, and applied for about 15 jobs in about a week.
- I think I have a strong resume and very marketable skills.
- There is a chance that I will find the perfect position for me, one that will change my life.
That is enough for me.