An escape pod

I’m an eternal optimist. But I also believe in being prepared. I think everyone with a job should keep a “victory file” of their accomplishments, success stories, kudos and thank you’s, and periodically update their resume whether they are looking for a new position or not.

"The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining." – John F. Kennedy

The best job in the world for you can turn on a dime with new management, clients, processes, goals, or any one of an infinite number of other changes. When you first notice that your job is not all you hope, build an “escape pod.”

With an up-to-date resume you’ll feel better even if you don't leave, because you’ll remember you have choice. And should you happen to hear of an amazing opportunity, you’re not fighting against time to pull your resume together.

I had a client whose job had slid down that slippery slope to where she felt completely taken advantage of: overworked and underpaid. Before she did anything else we crafted a sterling new resume that highlighted her contributions – which were enormous.

The document gave her a newfound confidence and the data to back it up, which she used to have a very straightforward discussion with her boss about the situation. He agreed, and she received a huge raise as well as much needed resources for her team! She’s still with the same employer, more productive than ever – and now feels that her contribution is valued.

Last year I worked with a client who was under a lot of pressure to learn a new skill set at work. We took a two-pronged approach; we worked directly on coping strategies and skill development, but also built an escape pod in the form of a new, up-to-date resume that he would be proud to send out on a moment’s notice. You could physically see the stress leave his face and body.

He hasn't changed jobs either, but both knowing he could, and seeing on paper how far he had already come helped him develop a renewed vigor for challenging himself. He’s happy again.

If you’re not as happy as you want to be in your job, it’s time to get your resume in order. It doesn't mean you're going to leave. It means you care about yourself and your happiness enough to take periodic inventory of your strengths and accomplishments, and remind yourself what a catch you are.

"The most delightful surprise in life is to suddenly recognize your own worth." - Maxwell Maltz, Surgeon