What's your cause?

Many of my clients are newcomers to a community. Quite often, I hear the familiar complaint," But I don't know anyone here."

What's a quick remedy for meeting people and connecting with humans who share our humanitarian issues? Think of a social cause that moves you.

Let's look deeply into our core values and examine what matters to us, whether it's a social cause, a social or community agency or a charitable organization. These are good areas to start a self-examination of core values. (Any credible career professional knows that examining values is a pre-requisite to finding satisfying work).

Anyone new to a community can join a cause that appeals to their humanitarian, charitable or vested interest straight away. The choices are plentiful:
-community service agencies
-non-profit or charitable organizations that appeal to a specific niche or targeted population
-national or globable charities

For example, a charitable organization in Canada is broadcasting a terrific TV campaign. The web site www.becauseiamagirl.ca/ sponsors girls in third world countries. The raison d'etre of the site is "a global campaign to claim a brighter, safer future for girls." On the companion site in the UK, the same campaign is being waged with real fervor and momentum.

My intention in blogging this is not designed to endorse the latter charitable organization, but to include an example of joining a cause to boost a job search. The decision to join a social cause is a fruitful activity for making connections, and improving one's chance of being considered for a job involving that designated social cause, in the hidden job market.

Even if a job seeker is "introverted" and reluctant to introduce oneself immediately in a new community, aligning with a social cause can be conducted from home

The choice to volunteer, even part-time or to join a social cause rules out any excuse for not being able to meet new people in a new community!

Previously, in my radio broadcasting career, I can recall when I was not keen about accepting a job in another community. I never did develop a full appreciation for that community, although I cultivated new relationships by looking up volunteer events and organizations to gain contacts. (Happily, I did achieve success in feeling less isolated and lonely).

The next time you ask," I don't know anyone here (in my new community)," replace that stalling tactic with "what social cause can I belong to?" Even a few hours a week can make a difference between a passive, traditional job search, that rarely produces satisfying results.

Take the quick, 7 question quiz to answer the question "What's your cause?" at http://en.chatelaine.com/

You'll be a better person knowing that you are contributing to your local community cause and engaging in social networking skills, vital to a successful job search.

Now available! Melissa's new ebook, How to use social media in your job search
http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com