Advice from Coffee & Conversation

The final question at each “Coffee & Conversation” networking forum is: “Tell the group something “fun” about yourself that is not on your resume.”

We certainly attract an interesting group of participants.

The answers include:

Ballroom dancing, tap dancing, writing poetry, writing a coming-of-age novel, acting lessons, going to film festivals across the United States, still a “Dead-Head”, playing in a band at local pubs, cooking, making chocolate from scratch, building homes for the needy, working in a soup kitchen, former Rockette, former opera singer, former actor,  avid golfer, avid tennis player, antiquing, rescuing animals, serving as a EMT, flying, sailing in the Caribbean, avid skier, collecting vintage wine, going to wine tastings, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro,  and raising thoroughbred dogs.

Several executives in transition were asked during a “Coffee & Conversation” peer-to-peer small networking forum what they have learned from their experiences. Some of their responses include:

“I learned the importance of networking. In the past I was always “too busy” to go to conferences, meet with my peers, or return the phone calls of consultants. As a result, it took a long time for me to establish a network. I promise to keep my network going, and to extend myself to others.”

“I learned the meaning of patience. Being in transition is a process with a beginning a middle and an end. As much as I’d like to think I’m in control, I need the patience to wait for the process to play out.”

“I learned the importance of family and friends. I’ve always been so caught up in the drama of work; I didn’t spend enough time with my family and friends. I realize what I missed and promise myself a work/life balance.”

“I learned not to devote my whole being to my job. I never took vacation or, if I did, I made sure I stayed connected to the office. I wanted to get more involved in a not-for-profit that was dear to my heart, but never found the time to get involved. That will change.”

“I will return phone calls. I now understand what it feels like to have someone ignore your call. (Especially if you know the individual). I will make it my “mantra” to be considerate.”

“I learned you never know where your support is going to come from. Many people that I knew professionally wouldn’t give me the time of day once they heard I was in transition, while individuals that I knew superficially went out of their way to be of assistance. I’m determined that I will be helpful to others.”