Ctrl Alt Delete

Control, Alt, Delete:  This universal (at least in the PC world) key stroke sequence is used to reboot a computer system.  I don’t know about you, but I typically use Ctrl/Alt/Delete when something isn’t working right, when my system is working too slow, when a program isn’t responding or when I need to reset.  Depending on your Windows version, you get different computer system responses and screens that appear.  I’m currently on Windows 7 and my options are:

• Lock this computer
• Switch user
• Log Off
• Change a Password
• Start Task Manager
• Cancel

So if something in your job search isn’t working for you, which of these actions do you resort to?

• Do you lock your computer so no one else can see what you’re doing; maybe you don’t have a complete LinkedIn profile, or you’re not letting your family, friends and network know what’s going on with your situation?
• Do you ‘Switch User’ – trying to be someone else in your job search: applying for opportunities you have no business applying for, trying to squeeze yourself into a job description that isn’t right for you?
• Maybe you ‘Log off’ your computer which is the job search equivalent of giving up.

Or maybe you select my favorite: ‘Task Manager’ which shows what programs and applications are running properly.  If a program is operating properly and isn’t hanging you up, keep it running.  But if you run into the dreaded ‘Not Responding’ – in your job search and on your computer….then I suggest you ‘end the task’.  Many job seekers keep hitting the same button, hoping to get a different result (insanity), but the better option is a re-do, a start over, with fresh eyes and a new perspective…end the task through hitting Control, Alt, Delete.

We continue to hear how we’re experiencing a ‘new normal’ so if your job search or career is stuck, nothing and no one is responding and you need to start new, maybe it’s time for a civilized reset…press Ctrl/Alt/Delete.


Brenda