Be prepared; don’t be like Piglet

As Christmas draws near, Hanukkah begins and Kwanzaa is not far away, we all will have opportunities to be around friends, family and even new acquaintances. For those who, like me, are “between jobs,” there probably will be questions about the employment search. Also, people we just met might ask what line of work we’re in.
My advice: Be prepared; don’t be like Piglet.

When my sons were young, they were “Winnie the Pooh” fans, and I recall one episode of the cartoon where a wind-up monkey named Bruno became friends with the denizens of the Hundred-Acre Wood. As they all got acquainted, Bruno asked Piglet, Pooh’s devoted but meek pal, “What do YOU do?”

Piglet, who had seen Bruno’s antics and was clearly uncomfortable at the question, replied, “Well, I … er …. um … uh… nothing.” Of course, Bruno howled with laughter at the answer.

You may not be questioned by a wind-up monkey, but you need to have an answer ready besides “nothing.” Try “I’m exploring multiple job opportunities” (true, but vague enough that there probably won’t be a follow-up question). Or “the possibilities are endless” (probably will prompt a laugh but will effectively end the discussion of the topic). There are a variety of answers you could give that would indicate you’re hopeful and have been working very hard to find a position that matches your skill set, or perhaps you’re trying to upgrade your skills to better fit the job market.

This is where I am, by the way.  I’ve sold some freelance pieces, am trying to sell a few more and still looking for something long term. But even if you haven’t had a nibble, try to stay upbeat.

My Christmas note: As a Christian, I believe that this is a season of hope. Our assistant pastor, Steve, carried his baby daughter with him to the altar yesterday as he did the Communion prayer. It was a vivid reminder of the hope that a baby brought to the world.