If you don’t ask, you don’t get. A simple statement that can get you a long way in life. As a Senior Career Coach for students at a major university, my role is to ensure they understand the journey that lies ahead. There are many ways to achieve success. Effective communication is one of the most enduring ways to help that process. From the very beginning of time, there has been some form of communication. History tells us that relying on our resources has stood the test of time. We manage challenges, transitions, problems, the highs, and lows through effective communication. There will always be something in the way. If you let ‘it’ prevent you from moving forward, you lose. I want my clients to learn how to interpret an obstacle as an opportunity. Once you identify the hurdle, you consider the best way to get over it. Focus on the growth, the progress, the OUTCOME, and your mission. Difficulty can be developed and provide a chance to build skills and find something meaningful. But you will have to have your eyes and ears wide open. Learn to communicate with purpose, clarity, and conviction. Make your message clear. Be inspired by your own belief in yourself. Be confident that ‘you got this.’ Don’t be afraid to reach out. Find guidance in your network. Leverage it wisely. Effort will carry you a long way. Just know that at some point, you will rely on someone. With rare exception, we all need some assistance to reduce the friction along the way. Be honest. Be true to yourself. Communicate openly, strategically. Be straightforward. Be genuine. Ask yourself what it is that you are looking to accomplish and then make the call and reach out.
