Go here to read Part 1.
The second half of the book dives into a variety of topics designed to help you find the job – and work – most meaningful to you. Chapter 6 goes into the myths of resumes. Here’s a list of them:
- Myth 1: A good resume and cover letter will get me the job.
- Myth 2: The candidate with the best education, skills and experience will always get the position.
- Myth 3: Getting a job is really a matter of who you know or being in the right place at the right time.
- Myth 4: Employers appreciate long resumes because more information saves time spent interviewing.
- Myth 5: Always put your salary requirements and history on your resume.
- Myth 6: Always close a cover letter with “I look forward to hearing from you.”
- Myth 7: The more resumes you send, the more you increase your chances of getting a job.
- Myth 8: Once you send your resume, all you do is wait.
Dan then gives the reader solid advice on how to construct an effective resume. He includes thoughts on references and all the details vital to making sure you create a resume that will help you put your best foot forward.
Chapter 7 is entitled “Finding Your Unique Path.” This chapter delves into the important task of looking at job markets with an eye toward opportunity. Dan even addresses the need for people to promote themselves when they’re searching for a job. But the advice isn’t limited to mere job searching. He also discusses transition situations where people may simply want to do something different. Sometimes these situations are foisted on people. They’re terminated or their job is eliminated and now they need to look at their skills and experience under a new light. Sometimes people simply feel the urge to make a change.
Lots of people feel anxious when it comes time for the interview. Chapter 8 is entitled, “Do they like me? Do I like them?” This is a comprehensive chapter on how to handle yourself in the interview. The author takes you from the preparation stage to the time when the interview is over and you prepare to leave. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that your first impression is the only one that matters. The impression you make when you leave may be equally or more important. Miller covers such nuances and gives the reader rock solid advice to help them shine during the interview.
By the time the reader gets to chapter 9 he’s fully anxious to tackle the really big question, “How much will they pay me?” The chapter is entitled, “Show me the money.” If the interview doesn’t make you anxious, negotiating your income causes many people to feel tense and uncomfortable. You must have some basic negotiating skills. The book is not a primer on negotiation, but in this chapter Dan does give us some advice on how to handle this sticky part of the job searching process.
The book carries a strong message of being productive. The amount of money you can earn is going to be directly associated with your ability to make money for the company. You must provide value in order to obtain value from the company. Making sure your goals match the goals of the offer is a critical component of landing the proper job.
The last few chapters are aimed at those people who don’t want to find a job. They’re at the point in their life where they prefer to launch their own enterprise. Being on your own – without the perceived safety net of a job (Miller urges the reader to avoid the trap of thinking security is found in any job) – may not be for you. Chapter 10 launches into these ideas with a strong, but simple question, “Do you have what it takes?”
The final two chapters wrap it all up. Chapter 11 is “Skunks, Rags and Candy Bars.” This chapter and the conclusion chapter (chapter 12) talk about how today’s working world is different than any time in the past. The new world we’re in gives us opportunities that simply weren’t possible in the past.
Throughout the book the reader is encouraged to look deep within themselves. Self-examination is a major component of finding the work you love, whether that’s for an employer or for yourself. Responsibility to construct your own life is something Dan Miller preaches constantly. Own your life. Make your life what you want it to be. Don’t relegate yourself to being a victim to others, or to your circumstances. If you don’t like your circumstances, change them. If you don’t like your life, create the life you want – one you will like. One you’ll love!
The book does not presuppose that you are wired one way or another. We’re all different. Miller understands this. The book is aimed at anybody who understands that work is being productive. It should be work that makes a positive impact in and on your life – and the lives of others, including your family. It’s not a book of rah-rah, but there are plenty of inspirational case studies and stories. It’s a book of actions and deadlines, as evidenced by the title.
Add it to your reading list and follow the action steps. Of course, there’s no guarantee you’ll find the work you love in 48 days, but if you don’t set the goal to find work you love, you’ll never find it. Aim high. Go far. Be remarkable!
For more information about Dan Miller visit his website, 48Days.com. There’s also an interactive group at 48Days.net.
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