Job hunting....

Did you realise that job hunting is a bit like being in the Mafia? There are things you know, but can’t discuss outside “the family” and it wouldn’t be a smart move to post them online. I’ve been stalling on updating this blog because what I write now affects my prospects of getting a job if I mention the companies I have spoken to and the interviews I’ve had. So my usual style of telling you every last juicy detail will have to curtailed slightly, for now.

I’ve officially been job hunting for ten days since Beluga finally closed. It appears that it’s all a bit of a waiting game. I’ve spent the last few years being very pro-active in organising events and running my business and I’m keen to get moving on a new challenge. I don’t want to pester the living daylights out of agencies but at the same time sitting still waiting for the phone to ring isn’t really my style. I need to find a balance somewhere in the middle.

My CV has been posted to all my contacts and is on the major job searching sites. I’ve had the “we don’t think your skills match” emails that are churned out by an automated service somewhere and I've had interviews; my first in nearly 13 years! S1jobs suggested I become an Army Officer which caused much hilarity amongst my friends, have you seen that Goldie Hawn film? I like my lipstick and heels to much for that kind of career move.

So, what am I doing with my time? I’ve been putting proposals together to run social media accounts for two brands who were fans of my @TheBelugaClub account on Twitter. I love social media so am excited about this however long term I want to work as part of a team, rather than home alone with my laptop.

I’ve also been shaking a lot of hands. Meeting people face to face and having a good old blether is my favourite form of doing business. I’m putting myself in front of as many people as I can and continuing to build my contacts. I’m a fan of the New Media Breakfasts and I worked my way around the room, and the buffet, at the Power Lunch Club last week. Tomorrow night I’m heading to the Social Media Dinner and whilst there is a clear pattern of avoiding cooking, I really enjoy networking, hearing people’s stories, learning and sharing experiences. I’m the girl who always knows someone who can help you because I’ve invested a lot of time listening to my customers/associates and building relationships. During the week I had a call from a documentary maker who was looking for contacts for a film she’s making and I found her 3 candidates. Sometimes in life it is a case of “who you know”!

So, here I am approaching the end of my second week without a “proper" job. How do I feel? On the whole I’m happy and positive although there is the odd moment of panic. I trail through the jobs advertised and wonder where I’ll end up and how long it’s going to take? In my heart I know it will be okay and as long as there isn’t a horses head in my bed tomorrow morning I’m winning!

Two weeks later.......

It's been a crazy fortnight!

I’ve had 5 enquiries about purchasing my business/website/brand and have a few meetings in January about potential jobs. You could have knocked me down with a feather; I wasn’t expecting that response. In 2 weeks time everything will be done and dusted and Beluga in its current form, will be gone. The chapter will be closed and I will be stepping into the great unknown.

One of the things that took me by surprise after I posted the last blog was the response from those I chat to on Twitter. So many people got in touch to say that they were unhappy with something in their life and that my announcement encouraged them to start making changes and gave them food for thought. I think that’s pretty cool.

Four years ago today I was in A&E with a fractured skull after slipping in the bath and smashing the back of my head. Two inches to the right and I’d be paralysed, if the bath water hadn’t drained away I wouldn’t be here typing this now. It was a very painful and frightening experience, I lost a lot of my memory and for a long time it took away my confidence. I did however learn a very valuable lesson, that life is too short.

Last night I checked my watch at 11.45pm and actually jumped up and down with excitement waiting for the bells to bring in the New Year. I was singing, dancing and laughing with my arms wrapped round the people I love and a huge smile on my face. What does 2010 have in store for me? I have no idea. I feel exceptionally lucky. I have amazing friends, I have my health and I have a penchant for walking on the sunny side of the street, even when it’s raining.

Wishing you a very Happy New Year. Here’s to 2010, a new beginning, a new decade, a new adventure?

Annie x