And so it begins…
January 28, 2008 | by Zach | Permalink
Today is the first day I will work for Jobing without the deliberate guidance of a veteran co-worker. Needless to say, I’m nervous. But, I’m also excited at the prospect of defining our niche. The commitment to training that Jobing has demonstrated over the past 3 weeks is commendable and now Brett and I have to make good on their investment. We’ve been exposed to all aspects of the Jobing organization. So we can come in and do something totally unique.
What exactly will that be? Well…
Over the past year those of us on the trip have become acutely aware of the disconnect between the student community and the professional world they are about to enter. Very few students are asking the questions necessary to find careers they love and more importantly don’t know where to solicit answers when they do. In addition, concern is growing in the professional world about how to address the pending “workforce crisis”. As the baby boomers retire skilled job positions are left open with no skilled labor to fill them.
There is an obvious link between the problems of large scale professional attrition and a lack of professional guidance in the student community. Discussion is needed, however someone needs to initiate the dialogue, and this is where PTP comes in. We’re the mediator, the inspiration and the catalyst. With the help of the Jobing foundation PTP will use community contacts not readily available to other organizations to generate the kind of discussion, excitement and cooperation that will help students find work that excites them in industries that value their contribution. It’s social entrepreneurship, modern day capitalism… industry with a humanitarian touch.
So for all the friends, family and strangers that have been asking us over the past several months “What is it you’re doing?” You’ve got the answer. We’re helping the kids. We’ll be producing a book and documentary over the next 3 months and developing a speaking program to help spread the PTP message and catalyze productive discussion about work among students. Clubs, expos and career days will be promoted as forums for young people and employers to interact. Creating familiarity that will foster mutually beneficial professional relationships.
I you still don’t get it just keep reading the blogs, watch for press releases and stay tuned. You’ll figure it out as the project develops. I almost have…
If you have an individual or organization that would like to become involved with the Pursue the Passion project please contact me at, zach.hubbell@jobingfoundation.org.
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