Underemployment. Is it real?

According to dictionary.com, underemployment is being employed at job that does not fully use one’s skills or abilities; or employed only part-time when one is available for full-time work. When I look at this definition, I think in all of my years of employment I’ve been underemployed for the majority of the time.

This point was made very clear to me about a year ago. I had received a phone call from my electric provider asking if I would participate in a survey. I agreed and the basic demographics were asked; date of birth, race etc. Then they asked about highest level of education, then about income. Based on my education the surveyor decided to skip ahead a few income levels. I told her she might want to go back towards the beginning of her list, because that’s where my income would be. I remember her pausing and saying, “Oh with your education I’m sure we need to start here”. Again, I encouraged her to start at the beginning. After reading the second level, we were able to move on to the next question. I could hear it in her voice that she had additional questions that had nothing to do with how I use my neighbor comparison statement. She wanted to know why someone who had an MBA wasn’t making much more money than she was.

The reason is…a lesson. I am on a life journey and part of the journey has brought me to a place where I can truly appreciate the opportunity at hand and wait patiently for what’s next. Now, that doesn’t mean I’m not looking for other opportunities. I have a very specific plan for my career and am focused on doing whatever it takes to make that happen. Had I not been unemployed, I probably would not be as appreciative as I am for my current job, nor would I be as patient as I wait for my next opportunity.

If you are in a state of underemployment, have an attitude of gratitude for the experience and be patient as your next opportunity presents itself. If your unemployment only includes part-time hours, do your best to make the most out of the time you are there. Get to know the people you are working with and help them to see how valuable you are. That way, when a full-time position comes available, you can be at the top of the list of candidates.

I recently interviewed for an internal position and believe that my attitude of gratitude and patience as I’ve been looking for the right opportunity are going to help me outshine the other candidates. If not, I know that what is meant for me is mine and I will continue to press forward with my plan. I will keep a positive attitude, while focusing on my personal and professional goals. This little saying gives me peace when something I want doesn’t happen, “Life’s rejection is God’s protection”.

Thankful for His protection!