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A Lucky One

I count myself one of the lucky ones.  I have been given an opportunity in my life to grow up in a great town, get an education both locally and in a neighboring small town, and then be given an opportunity to pursue a rewarding career in my hometown.  Yes, I consider being "stuck" or "left behind" in Union to make me lucky.

Nearly 13 years ago, a local company took a chance and hired a 22 year old kid not long out of college with no experience who was looking for a job primarily because I was too lazy and unmotivated to go back to school to become an accountant.  When asked why I wanted to get into banking my response was literally this, "I don't know, I just heard it's a good career to get into."  Looking back, I don't even think there was a need for the position I was hired into, but for whatever reason it happened.  And I believe that it has worked out well for both the company I work with and myself.

My message to young people, and potential employees, is this:  Pursue your dreams.  Never settle.  Keep applying.  Keep making phone calls and making connections, but don't get pushy and annoying.  I submitted 3 resumes to the same company before I got the job I still have now.  I don't know if I'll keep this job forever (or if it will keep me), but I do know that while I'm here, I will strive to grow personally and professionally while helping grow our business.  I got lucky and you can too.

My message to hiring managers, boards, and employers is this:  Hire people who want to be where you are.  Jobs are constantly changing with the changing of culture, new technology, new laws, etc.  The one constant will be the community you are located in and the work environment you offer.  Don't allow yourself to be a stepping stone job opportunity.  Make yourself a permanent landing ground that offers growth and opportunity so your employees.

Maybe today is the day that you get lucky as an employee, or maybe today is the day that you can get lucky as the employer.  But neither will happen if no one takes a chance.
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