Generation Useless

Now before everyone gets up in arms about the title of this post, I think it's important to note, I don't think we're completely useless...just somewhat. But first an update:

What I've learned about the job search is that it's all about quality over quantity. It's very easy to answer ten or more job postings a night by re-using the same cover letter and not following up. It's a LOT more effective to really take the time for each one, write a unique cover letter, and follow up directly with whoever posted the job. It's easy to imagine how many applications and resumes each posting gets, so unless you do your best to stick out it's hard to imagine you'll get noticed, even if you have a spectacular resume and an inspired cover letter. Another important thing I've learned (even though I was told to do this right at the start, I was arrogant, so I dismissed the advice) is to keep track of everything. Remembering someones name, or knowing the date you applied for the specific position can be crucial information later on. This stuff worked for me, and while it may be obvious to some, whatever you can do to give yourself a better chance, you should be taking full advantage of. But that's enough preaching for this post.

One final thing I wanted to express before we get into the topic of today's post, is my gratitude for all the support. It's been amazing. I love getting messages from people who are in the same position, facing the same struggles, and learning the same lessons as I am. It's why I started this blog, and why I will continue writing. I'd love to hear any suggestions, tips, or critiques you may have, so please share. Comment below or email to robertjbaral@gmail.com.

Today's topic is how technology has made me completely useless. For the past few months, including time at my last job, I knew this was the case, although I didn't want to admit it. I consistently found reasons to delay or completely bypass any face to face interactions, finding much comfort in sending an email instead. This fear of face to face conversations slowly evolved into a fear of phone conversations as well. I would be happy to talk to friends, family and even clients/potential employers as long as everything was pleasant and light. The second there was any confrontation, it was right back to email or chats. The sad part was, I was so delusional that I didn't see this as a problem until about two days ago; when I was planning on a routine follow up call to one of the jobs I applied for. I knew exactly what I was going to say, and what questions may be asked of me. I picked up the phone, started to dial the number and then a sudden wave of hesitation and doubt came over me. I hung up the phone, and went straight to the computer and opened up my email. What if he asked me something I wasn't prepared for, or what if rambled on without answering the questions? It was at that moment I realized that with my complete reliance on technology, I'd lost my ability to think on my feet and I had a serious problem. There is another factor in this, and that is the fear of rejection. Not only is it a lot easier to send bad news over email, than it is to do it face to face, but it's also easier to take rejection. I'd be embarrassed to write this, if I didn't know that a lot of people in my generation have the exact same reliance on email as a method of dealing with anything remotely difficult or displeasing. I've started to make strides to change my ways, but as we all know, it's difficult to change a habit, cold turkey. Every time I write an email now, I take a second to think whether it would be more effective to call or show up in person (if possible). It's important because it could potentially be the difference between getting a job and not getting one.

I have a few PHONE calls (yes I know, I'm freaking out as well) scheduled with the aforementioned companies, so I'll most likely write a review of how they go after they are all done.

Rob Baral

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