Two weeks ago I want to Minneapolis for interviews, networking, and organizing my big move. It was an awesome experience in which by the end of the week I was exhausted. I met Elliot's family, recruiters, and people from different organizations. I was fortunate enough to have two meetings and three interviews in my 10 days span. I had an interview with Target, INNOVA Markeing, and Saint Paul Convention and Visitors Bureau. I really enjoyed my last interview because it was just an informational interview with the Director of Marketing, Adam Johnson. Adam gave me so much amazing insight into the complexity of marketing within in tourism. Especially in this day and age with the economy in a recession the ability to persuade someone to spend the money traveling is not easy. He let me in on a couple ideas and concepts that he is currently working on and I was delighted to give feedback/ideas. He helped me get a interview for a receptionist position at the convention bureau which is a great start considering during this economy "beggars can't be choosers". In between all the fun job stuff Elliot and I scrambled all over the cities to local furniture and design stores to get ideas on how to decorate our condo downtown. In addition, Elliot gave me a wonderful cabin experience in northern Wisconsin where we went snow snowmobiling, made snow angels, and relaxed in a HUGE log cabin but the fire.My positive visit to Minneapolis even with its low digit temperature has strengthen my decision of moving to the Midwest. With the large number of corporations based in the Twin Cities I am hopeful that an opportunity will present itself. Just talking to a couple people at gatherings, especially Elliot's immediate family, I was able to meet many people who are part of these big corporations management. The news says the economy is bad and yes its a lemon, but you have to learn how to make lemonade. I have been able to develop opportunities where others may see a closed door. I have had a great job search coach, Elliot, who has really taught me the knit and grit of finding a job. While we both initially began struggling we have both come out on top. We both have had repeat interviews with various companies. In addition, we both have the support of our families have also given us a piece of mind (shelter and food) while we look for employment.
I have toyed with the idea of just going back to school I have decided that I need to develop some real world experience. I am however interested in taking a class here and there to develop some more of my artistic skills for graphic design and web design.
So while the unemployment continues I am getting somewhere. In my spare time I have been volunteering in the Miss Valley Center Pageant. This year I am very excited about the event since I was asked to be Mistress of Ceremonies. I am happy to be a positive female role model in my community. I have been taking every opportunity to spend time with family and friends. This is one aspect I will miss about the move but with so many modern forms of communication I don't feel like I will be too far away.
