Having something to say

I know I don't do regular blog posts... it'd be nice if I did, but only because then I'd feel like a real blogger. This outlet is really more for me, it's more personal. I publish these posts on my social circles because, kind of like the proverbial tree in the forest, I need to make a little noise. But, I think creating blog posts is similar to photography, my other new hobby I'm trying to cultivate.

I bought a slightly-better-than-snapshot quality camera because I wanted to do a better job of capturing family memories. They go by way too fast! Once I started taking pictures and learning about my camera,  I started seeing the world in new ways. I notice how light falls on surfaces, I take more notice of shadows and colors, I frame situations as moments and wonder how I can develop the talent of capturing mood, feelings, and expectations into a still image. Trying to learn photography is learning to see in a new way.

Having an idea that you want to blog about isn't all that different. I have a lot I think I'd like to say, but the process of articulating it in writing takes a lot of additional effort. Through the writing process, I clarify my thoughts, see if they are real, and try to articulate them... and you know what? Sometimes they don't make all that much sense. Other times, though, they do, and I feel personally rewarded. Writing and publishing blog posts is kind of like learning to think, but in a more disciplined way.

It isn't just because I have something to say that I write a blog, it is the creative process I enjoy. With more disciplined thought comes more improved communication. With more improved communication, ideas can become actions.

Why consulting?

Part of this blog experiment is to provide an outlet for some of the thoughts I randomly have. I think the act of writing about them forces me to think through them, validate them to myself, and learn how to articulate them to others. This is one of those concepts...

Even though I'm in HR these days, and do very little project work, I still love the business of consulting, whether it be technology, public health, business, or some other subject area. When I'm talking to students who are contemplating a career, I try and pass on some of my enthusiasm for a career in consulting. So, why consulting?

1. You get to test yourself
Sure, anyone can start a business, market their services, charge an hourly rate, and label themselves a consultant. People will constantly ask, "what do you do again?" and they won't be able to explain it. But, it takes a lot of courage to be a consultant, even when working for a company like ours (Resource Data), since you have to put yourself out there and to a certain degree rely on your own instincts and abilities.

2. There is freedom
As a consultant, you get the freedom to reinvent yourself over and over. A popular theme these days, whether it is in business or career development, is being agile, flexible, and willing to make a lot of small mistakes while seeking success. Consultants can do that over and over; there is no predefined objective or end point; it truly is a journey. Some people find that thought produces insecurity; but, I find excitement and anticipation.

3. You get to help people that want help
Most of the times consultants are asked to help with a specific problem or need. If you're successful in the engagement, they are happy and you feel good about your accomplishment. How great is that?? Imagine a job where people ask for your assistance, you help them, they thank you and pay you, and you feel great? Now that's the kind of interaction I could make a career out of!

4. It is market driven
Recently, I saw a show on a cat whisperer... he's a cat consultant!! You can become a consultant in anything and the market will naturally validate your subject area and level of expertise. If there is no market for your services, you won't be successful. Similarly, if you're not very good, you won't be successful... and you'll have to find another subject area. See #1 and #2.

5. There is challenge and reward
Everybody has different motivators and consulting lets you drive toward your highest ones. For example, if you're good you can drive toward maximum money; or, you can "reinvest" and drive toward more challenging and interesting projects. Maybe the great ones make lots of money AND do really interesting projects... but, it is pretty hard to serve two masters. For me, making a decent living and being able to work on cutting edge projects and help solve interesting problems is the most exciting part of consulting and ultimately what I seek.

I'm a consultant. While I might not be able to tell you exactly what it is I do, I can try and tell you why I love what I do. And, loving what you do is a very good thing. Until next time, cheers.

Consider connections as conversations

You often see articles and posts from people about how to use LinkedIn. When I'm using it as a recruiter, I often remember all the articles that talk about the point of contacting someone isn't to offer them a job, it is to start a conversation, a dialog.If you're a job seeker (we are all opportunity seekers), then realize you have a part to play in this, as well. Technology and social networking (like LinkedIn) can enhance existing relationships and facilitate new relationships. When someone reaches out to you, regardless of the context, evaluate it before responding:

1. Do you feel the relationship would be mutually beneficial? This could be either personally or professionally and while it sounds self-centered, if you're not going to get anything out of it, chances are they won't either. Also remember, what you receive isn't always material. Does the person look interesting? Maybe their contributions to your life are humor or intellectual stimulation. 
2. What are you offering them? You may not know, exactly, but explore the idea a bit. No need to manufacture context, but don't underestimate yourself, either. Consider first is the context primarily personal or professional. Then, think about their perspective and what they might be interested in, and go from there.
3. Finally, respond as you would in a real conversation. Short responses and interactions are fine, but they should still carry the right tone and respect. Leave the room open for the conversation to expand beyond the initial context. For example, if I contacted you about a potential opportunity, but I also passed the evaluations above, respond in a way that allows for continued dialog. You never know where things will head.

Conversations are where relationships start, and we could all use more mutually beneficial relationships. The next time you get a request to connect, think of it as a conversation starter and let me know how it goes.

Opportunity = Responsibility

Remember the ad where the kids were saying things like "I want to work my way up to middle management"? You can watch it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJB0CzlzSwY 

The IT market is hot right now - CS graduates are getting offers as they enter their senior year, jobs are aplenty, and the possible areas one can pursue a career is endless. It is an incredibly exciting time for job seekers because the opportunities are so diverse and potentially rewarding. Which means: if you're looking at jobs in this market, there is a bit more weight to your decision; and, that's as it should be. Our decisions today - find a new job, stay at our current job, etc. - have long-term implications.

We can all find work to do, even meaningful work. If you're in IT, you can find a job, too, a job that pays the bills, provides some sort of retirement plan, and maybe even a little discretionary income. The combination of enjoyable work while on the job over the course of the long term is what I'd consider a successful career... and having a successful career is a lot harder than finding a job.

People often look at salary and financial compensation as their most important factor when considering a job. However, in my experience, seeking and getting a higher salary isn't a predictor of a successful career. So, if you're looking for a job or are just evaluating your current one, here are some other aspects to consider.

• Co-workers - do you like the people you're working with? Do you respect them as individuals personally and professionally? Who would you be working with in a new job? Do you know?
• Interesting work - what do you do each day? Is it intellectually stimulating? Do you feel good about your contribution? Is there opportunity to grow, learn, and try new things?
• Diversity - can you try out different roles, get involved with new initiatives, or even change tracts within the same company?
• Long-term growth - What were other people doing 5 years ago at the company and what are they doing now? What are the prospects for you and how do they feel? Does it excite you?
• Company - what is their history? How successful is the company and what do they attribute that success to? Successful companies don't underpay top performers, but they also don't overpay unproven employees.

If you pick a job based primarily on salary, you'll miss many other important evaluation criteria. People don't start out their job search looking to have a mediocre career, but job choices along the way lead them there. Spend some time thinking about your goals and aspirations and evaluate potential job changes on more than just salary... it will significantly raise your chances of having a successful career.