At twenty-three, with a newly minted marriage, we had aspirations of homeownership. I stumbled upon a job listing for a coordinator position at a small downtown internet marketing "start-up."
The setting was quaint—a historic building with desks crammed into former bedrooms and a spiral staircase leading to a makeshift attic office. During the interview, my prospective boss and his associate delved into the intricacies of pay-per-click marketing. I scribbled "paperclip" in my notes, feigning comprehension. They probed my online experience while we still relied on dial-up at home. Suffice it to say, I was green—perhaps more so than I cared to admit.
But they saw potential in me. They took a chance.
That chance blossomed into a journey of growth and opportunity. Over the next four years, I earned promotions and raises. A merger broadened my horizons, exposing me to renowned brands like McDonald's and The Little Gym. The experience I garnered during those formative years propelled my career trajectory, eventually landing me the role of vice president of marketing at an international business school.
Though our paths diverged over time, I've had the privilege of reconnecting with those who initially took a chance on me.
Over the years, I've found myself in positions to pay it forward many times.
Two of my clients, each with over a decade of industry experience, are seeking new opportunities—one due to a RIF, the other constrained by a professional ceiling.
Furthermore, I recently had the honor of teaching a 400-level business course. Many of my students, fresh-faced graduates, are eagerly navigating the job market, armed with ambition and academic prowess.
Yet, the reality is harsh. Rejection emails flood their inboxes at an alarming rate. LinkedIn posts attract a swarm of applicants within hours.
In such a competitive landscape, it's easy to overlook the potential hidden beneath polished resumes and well-rehearsed interviews. But behind every rejection letter lies a story of resilience, determination, and untapped potential.
Great candidates abound, waiting for someone to extend a hand of opportunity. Times are tough, and competition is fierce. But amidst the chaos, let's not forget the power of giving someone a chance.
After all, someone once believed in us. It's time to pay it forward.