If only each of us had a crystal ball (highly polished of course) that we could call upon over the course of our lives. The problem is that we don’t.

I once heard a very nice presentation on how to get a good start in a new job. Parachuting in at the top is always difficult, and the speaker did a good job in discussing the issues involved and how to deal with them.

One of the issues discussed, as you might expect, was in doing a little due diligence before accepting an offer. If only this were the panacea it is always presented to be.

Truth be told, we are more often put in a position in any job market of “making the best of a bad situation.” Senior level jobs in an industry that makes sense for our background in a location not too inconvenient to where we currently live or want to live at a salary acceptable to our needs are few and far between.

So, if things don’t work out as hoped, before your kick yourself around the room I would suggest that you at least put on your bunny slippers so it doesn’t hurt so much. The honest truth is that we all do the best we can with the cards we are dealt. Events and circumstances well beyond our control routinely happen, and to beat yourself up about it is not only a waste of time, it is inappropriate.

Gump happens. And, it happens all the time.

As you are pulling yourself back together, think of all the “fun” you had with this job during the time you had it. Chances are if you take a step back from the stress of the situation (a long walk in the woods or along a quiet beach are in order here) you learned an awful lot and accomplished an awful lot.

Knowledge is saleable. It is the product that you promote each and every day. And if you don’t mind my reminding you of our mantra in The FENG: You haven’t landed and you aren’t employed, you are just between searches.

This is why you keep the newsletter coming even when you have found a job. This is why you call a few new members each week. And this is why you keep NETWORKING.

All jobs are temporary. I hope you will look at your membership in The FENG as permanent.

Your skill building in seeking and finding new work opportunities is your lifetime insurance policy.

After all, Gump happens. (And unfortunately, it even happens to nice folks like each of you.)

Regards, Matt