I hosted a workshop last month called “Calmer Career Transition for Sensitive Souls,” along with Marci Shaffer, a wonderful job search coach.
Despite a little nervousness before being in front of the room, it worked out well. My deep-thinking brain, as an introvert and highly sensitive person (HSP), wanted to predict all possibilities and tend to it all, at once. Impossible, of course.
Luckily, once people arrived, my clear mind and flow of words showed up, like a blessing. There’s something about being with other sensitive souls that works for my brain and feels so good. I think it’s part of why the workshop participants felt happy too. Being with your people is good for the soul!
Marci and I were so pleased with the workshop turnout, the interactive participation, their great questions, and their feedback.
I’ll let you in on what happened.
Participant Takeaways, in Their Words
What they learned:
- That you need your right mix of people time and recharge time in your work – everyone needs both. And to find a job that fits you, not you fit for a job.
- Job searching is allowed to look different for sensitive souls.
- It’s tough for everyone looking for a job, but we are not alone. It was helpful to hear from others about their experiences.
- Job market is taking 4-6 months to find results, and length depends on the type of role.
- 80% of jobs come through networking. Thus networking should take up the majority of job search effort.
- Networking can happen in ways that feel fine for introverts and sensitive souls.
- Take time to clarify strengths and what I want, and to define my “brand”.
- Taking [Val’s] Career Clarity Course was a good first step in my clarity before the job hunt.
- Work on my brand messaging to be able to always share it easily in conversations and in writing.
- Stay realistic on timelines, have realistic expectations and expect some challenges along the way.
- Have a plan and accountability.
- Having a job search coach helps make the job hunt more efficient, so I’m not wasting my efforts.
How they felt:
- The workshop was the nicest part of my day!
- Thank you for giving introverts/HSPs a special space!
- Thank you for your time and supportive presence!
- This was a great session. Thank you both!
- I feel seen!
- Excited to explore possibilities.
- Good information to process. Also, you guys are a nice balance of emotional and logical support. 🙂
It sure felt good to be with everyone. I hope their takeaways give you some ideas for your own career or job transition.
Possible Next Steps for a Calmer Career Transition
- To uncover your strengths, values, and what you want, see:
Career Clarity Course for Introverts & HSPs - To have support through job search, see:
Job Search Coaching for Introverts, HSPs, & Neurodivergence
