When looking for a job, first find out what you hate. Here is why I say that.
During the networking events in my MBA (and even post that), I found it impossible to tell anyone that I was looking for a job. Whether it is selling my candidature or a product, I really struggle.
In fact, if I have to make a sales call, I will probably take a few hours to recover my energy.
In short, selling is not my thing.
But it does not mean that I can’t do anything in life – I just need to do things that I am (somewhat) good at.
While it is hard to find the right career option, it is much easier to identify and avoid the disastrous ones.
When I am working, I love nothing more than having a few hours without any interruption, where I can absorb ideas. And there are many people who would absolutely hate spending half a day in front of a computer, without talking to people — they would feel suffocated.
We are all different.
Hopefully, there are things we love. But most certainly, there are things we hate. And when you are looking for a job, that is where you should start — identify things that sap your energy, don’t capitalize on your skills, or don’t match your personality.
Then, avoid them.
It seems easy but it isn’t. When a big brand and salary package is dangled in front of us, most of us rationalize it and grab it (ask any IIM graduate). After that, we spend a few years in misery, for no good reason.
Life is short. Don’t waste it walking a road not meant for you.
– Rajan