Okay, not everything. I knew that breaking off the ends of asparagus stalks was effective even before I ever looked for a job. But it's kind of amazing how the skills you pull together when looking for a job are applicable (and useful) in so many different situations. Here are just a few examples:
1. Every situation is a potential networking situation. You never know who your cousin-in-law's brother's uncle knows. And even if there's no job-related connection now, there's always room for a future connection or just some good ideas.
2. Being able to introduce yourself and what you do clearly and concisely is as useful at a cocktail party as it is in an interview.
3. Being ready for opportunities is about both honing your skill set and packing correctly for a trip.
4. Helping other people when you can, and saying thank you when they help you is very attractive on the job market. It doesn't hurt in life either.
5. A half-hour cup of coffee with someone is worth far more than its weight in gold and caffeine (whether it's with a colleague or with a friend).
6. Revise, revise, revise, whether it's your résumé or your approach to life.
7. Know your audience. Tailor your letter and resume to each recipient, and tailor your slate of activities to each of your children.
8. Use your time wisely. Reviewing Internet postings some of the time is fine, as long as it doesn't replace talking to people in your field. Blogging about job searching is fine, as it doesn't replace talking to people about job searching.
Okay, so it may not be "kindergarten powerful," but you've got to admit, this job search learning model--it's pretty good. And since I won't be going back to kindergarten anytime soon...
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