When I start working with a new client around sorting out their career direction, I like to start by asking them a ton of questions. One of the things I’m listening for is their level of energy around different ideas. I’m also curious about what has worked for them in the past. Watch today’s video to learn more about how you can self-identify ‘bright spots’ in your personal history and utilize this information to your benefit.
What are some bright spots in your life? Share your thoughts below.
Alison … I truly enjoyed your video about how to build on what’s already working, focusing on your life/career bright spots, etc., etc. This technique is one of my favorites with the clients I serve as a facilitator & leadership coach. Have you considered having folks pick up a pencil or pen and then graph their bright spots on a time line or chart? … The insights gained — as you’ve hinted at in your video — are most helpful to both client and coach. Keep up the good work. And thanks again for sharing this interview technique … JL
Great to hear from you John! Thanks for your wonderful addition. I watched a documentary years ago where people first drew their timeline and then were asked to ‘dance’ it around a room. I think the insights gained from creative processes like these can be very helpful.
Hi, Alison, I was enjoying your video–but the sound cut out at 1:47. There was a pause, as if from editing, and the picture went on without sound. I tried listening on YouTube and had the same issue!
I had the same issue! I thought it was my computer, glad to know it wasn’t. Looking forward to hearing the rest!
Hey Gang, Thanks for alerting me to this issue! I believe the sound cuts out at the conclusion of the video, and then it re-plays the same clip another time without sound. (Weird, right? No clue how I did that!) So you aren’t missing any of the content.
I will look into getting the video resolved though so it doesn’t confuse anyone else. Thanks again for letting me know!
Hi Alison. I enjoyed watching your video. Unfortunately your sound got cut off in the middle, so wasn’t able to follow it ( tried lip reading too 🙂 but not so good at it ). But I especially loved your advice because typically when I look back I tend to look for bad choices made. Have never consciously looked for bright spots, so thanks for the lovely reminder.
You’re so welcome Julie! I hope you find some good insight from your reflection.
(PS. See my comment above on the audio issue.)
Thanks, Alison. Glad to know I didn’t miss anything. Long ago, I did Richard Bolles’s “Quick Job Hunting Map,” which had you write at length about seven experiences you enjoyed and felt really good about, and then extract the skills you used. It was, hands down, the most illuminating such exercise I ever did. Your “bright spots” approach uses the same principle, and I think it’s a sound one, especially since those “bright spots” can so easily get obscured in the course of a miserable job or frustrating job hunt.
Great point Anne! Thanks for sharing that additional exercise with us.