The Job Changer searching for a job must realizes that it is a team effort, not a solo one. It is not about what your resume says, or what your cover letter does not imply. It is not the alpha and the omega of your existence. It is not even about accountability (although it is a essential part). The job seeker has to complete the due diligence with family, spouse, fiancé, partner, and friends.

Everyone in a job seekers life is affected by his or her unemployment. His or her unfortunate status becomes treated as if the job seeker had a critical illness or a terminal condition. People want to know, and what to help for the most part. There are others who do not want to be bothered because to them, it is a negative status. It should not be that way, but it is what it is.

That segment of the family that genuinely cares about your general success are the ones wait quietly in trepidation to learn about the new job: Do they realize that it is difficult, or are they thinking that anyone should get on your feet quickly? The answers differ by age,  financial condition, or how realistic the expectations. Well, a career-changer may have to take some of that exploitative energy and raise the awareness of the family about your plans, goals, and your heart.

It is acknowledged that one can dream, and not disclose their intent. It does not translate into the real world, at least they are able to share their vision. Sure we can discuss strategy, organization, and structure. However without family, ambition means nothing. At some point, look for any old job.

• The career-changer eventually is mandated to find a job or else. Where did he or she go wrong? May I offer these missteps of where the wrong turn occurred:
• The career-changer did not have a plan.  What does it look like from beginning to end? Prepare for the best and worst of new territory.
• The career-changer could not convey the value of this new career or venture. It is easy to tell how much money to be made but the problem is clarifying the importance for everyone in the family, the customers, and fulfillment.
• The career-changer under estimates other family members ability to understand. A new career may mean going back to school or starting again.
  The career-changer focused on “I” and not “we.” Everyone goes as the dreamer makes a right turn or wrong turn.
• The career-changer is not prepared to lose more of his life than for a sustained time before winning. In any new direction, there is so much to learn. Dedication to getting everyone in the process is difficult.

I cannot emphasize the importance of explaining value to your supporters. That is, what it means to you, and what it will mean for them. They will need to help you with the big picture for them and you, and that is how you know how much support to expect. Regardless of the outcome, it is an excellent place to experience. Not only you will know how to proceed, but also the energy you will need to exert.

See, doesn’t that feel better.