The historic economic downturn suffered throughout the Tampa Bay region, as well as nationally and even globally has left its imprint on the minds of most workers. Fortunes and jobs were lost and people’s sense of purpose and confidence was shattered.
We fast forward from 2008 to 2016 and things have certainly brightened quite a bit. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rate has fallen in the Tampa Bay region from a high of 11.7% in January 2010 to a rate of 4.1% in May 2016. In fact, many economic and employment analysts believe the Tampa Bay area to be one of the most vibrant in the state for overall growth.
This is all great news, right? Yes, but…
Job Mission, Journey, or Campaign
Finding employment that pays the bills and is fulfilling-not just any job, but a great job-is not necessarily guaranteed in a recovering economy. There is considerable evidence that many people are finding employment that does not offer a “living wage” or sufficient opportunity for growth.
While the macro employment statistics are useful, they can cover up the real story-the importance of individuals finding gainful work that has value. This suggests that the phrase “job search” does not adequately define what people need to do when it comes to employment. Finding a great job needs to be more of a mission, journey, or campaign because of the negative impact the lack of viable, fulfilling work can have on all other aspects of life.
Finding a Great Job
The idea of not just finding a job, but a great job creates complexity to the process that scares many people. Most people have learned over time how to look for employment-by having done it before and/or by sharing experiences with others. However, identifying and landing a job that pays well and is life enriching is another matter.
While no one is denying that finding worthwhile work can be a daunting task, there are a plethora of resources available to help people take their personal journey toward finding the jobs they seek. Finding a job that offers economic security, as well as fulfillment and empowerment is not for the faint of heart. It can be hard work and the process rarely goes as smoothly as people would hope. However, the positive impacts on a person’s self-esteem and enthusiasm for life in general are enormous and well worth the effort.
Infographic Provided By Swoon Staffing, an IT staffing company