I was thinking about this the other day. I have recently done a lot of entertaining (including all my own shopping, chopping and cooking), and I happened to have some extra cut up onions. Once I realized I had a “start” to dinner, it was so easy for me to get cooking. A sauce was brewing in no time at all – and no tears!

I know that job seekers who are able to “get everything ready” for their search feel the same way – that it isn’t so hard getting going once all of the “ingredients” are lined up (such as a resume, online profile and a plan). Of course, comparing a job hunt to making dinner is a stretch, but the concept is sound: getting things ready, having everything in order makes getting started easier.

If you are a job seeker (or soon-to-be job seeker) without everything in order (or maybe you don’t know where to start), Encore.org offers many terrific resources. Their mission revolves around helping people transition to jobs in the nonprofit world and the public sector, so this is a *must use* resource for anyone thinking of making that change.

I blogged about Encore.org’s “Get Started Guide,” and shared their quote from Herminia Ibarra, author of Working Identity: Unconventional Strategies for Reinventing Your Career, (with regard to a career change) “Doing comes first, knowing second…It’s a transition, not a transaction.” (From Part One of the Guide.)

So – if you are thinking of a change, but don’t know where to get started – get doing!

Part Two of Encore.org’s Guide helps job seekers begin to answer the question, “What do I need to know about job hunting these days?” It offers a number of great resources for anyone considering making a change to a career that will help you contribute to a better world. Visit the site to download it for free!

Be sure to take a look at the stories of people who have made a transition to a career focused on helping others and you may just be inspired to take that road yourself!

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No matter what your job target, you can benefit from personalized advice! Don’t forget that clear, concise, optimized job search materials AND a strong, well executed plan are key for job search success! I can help with every part of your job hunt! Need a great resume? Tips to use social networking? Interview coaching?  If you need help mobilizing your networks and your job search plans, learn more about how I can help you! While you’re at it, don’t forget those social networks! Be sure to become a fan of Keppie Careers on Facebook…I’d be thrilled to have you as part of the community! Since we’re on the subject of doing something new…Are you on Twitter? Jump on and touch base with me @keppie_careers.

photo by bunchofpants

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