Reflections

I had Rheumatic Fever when I was in Kindergarten. I don't remember the "sick" part, but what I do remember is the bitter taste of the medicine since I didn't know how to swallow pills whole; and most of all I remember the gifts that I received during this time. I was not allowed to play or walk around - something to do about the heart, so I spent a lot of time reading and playing games in bed.

One of my favorite books that I received was Dr. Goat. The first lines of the book were: "Dr. Goat put on his coat and went out to make some calls. He went to the house of a mouse who had the mumps and cured a frog who had the jumps."

Have you ever had The Jumps?

Career Jumps Diagnosis and Treatment

Recently a client came to me - let's call her "Jane."  She was interested in beginning a search for a new position but was concerned about the Jumps. We talked about her history and I looked at her resume and was happy to report to her that she was free from that syndrome. I coached her through some strategies for her job search and sent her on her way to success.

Now, let's look at "John." He came to me wanting something different in his career. He had worked in several career fields taking mostly lateral moves in quick succession. He was once more looking for something different.

Diagnosis: The Jumps

Definition: Several positions in a short amount of time without progression - mostly lateral moves in different industries.


The Treatment: John and I worked through a personal branding program to help him discover his true passion and strengths. Then together we drew up a plan of action to reach his career goals. One action item included developing an online identity with his new brand so people would begin to see how his diverse work history complimented his goals. This was an investment for John.  He had to stop going to Starbucks every morning and out to dinner two or three nights each week, but he knew the ROI would be worth it. I am happy to say that he has settled into a new career, one that fits and one I am sure that he will stick with for several years.

If you think you might have "the Jumps" or if you want to avoid them, contact me for a free "diagnosis."