being capable

A friend's daughter emailed me a week or so ago. She had graduated from college in the Spring and was now in the job market. Great time to be looking for work. 

I vaguely remember a while back her dad saying she may be contacting me. Sure enough after enjoying her last free summer, she took the initiative and sent me an email. She said:

"...I'm not really sure what I want to do, but i have a lot of different interests and I am a very enthusiastic learner...I'm not sure if Epoch is hiring right now or not but I'm sure just your advice would be helpful as I start my journey."

I emailed her a date and time. She confirmed. It was Wednesday at 10 am of this week. On that day at 9:55, Maura told me Perri Monkarsh is here to see me. 

I totally fogged on the appointment. It's been a little crazed for me as of late so time is scarce. But, a promise is a promise. Selfishly, I welcomed the relief. I'm always game to meet with anyone under 25. It's part of my ongoing reverse mentorship program. 

I first met Perri when her parents invited us over for dinner. I quizzed her on all my usual questions. Music she listens to. TV she watches. TIme spent on the net. Her preferred method of communication. I remember her being incredibly bright and personable. More than anything she exuded kindness, confidence and an innate sense of responsibility. Now, here she was in my office looking very professional and ready to tackle the world. 

We talked about her interests. Jobs interviews she's been on. Other contacts her dad suggested. She than asked me a question, what am I looking for in hiring someone right out of college with no real work experience. Be capable. A lot harder than it sounds.  If you've had the opportunity to work with or talk to a number of people under 25, you know exactly what I'm talking about. The desire to listen, learn and complete your tasks are rare yet much needed commodity. Very few kids entering the work force possess these skills. 

Perri is fortunate. She already owns that skill set and countless others. 

At the end of our conversation, I told her I'd contact some people and put it out there for her. So, I'm putting it out there. 

Perri Monkarsh is looking for a job. She wants to be in media, communications or entertainment. She wants to get her hands dirty and passionately pursue interests through career discovery. 

If you have an opening, she will give back as much as she receives. Join the reverse mentorship program. Give her a job if you have one. You won't regret it. I guarantee it. Contact me and I'll pass it forward.