Are You A Susan Boyle?

Susan Boyle, the unknown singer from Scotland who last year inspired the world with her rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream” on “Britian’s Got Talent” has again rocked the world. Her new album has sold more than 700,000 copies in the first week out selling giants such as U2, Eminem and Snoop Dog. (Thanks to Connie Schultz of the Cleveland Plain Dealer for these statistics.) Who would think that a 40 something unemployed women could have such amazing talents?

Well, there are many Susan Boyle’s out there. We may not be singers, but we are over 40, unemployed, not stunningly beautiful and maybe even a little frumpy looking. But guess what. We are ready to ROCK THE WORLD. We too have talents that are not being recognized by potential employers. Our resumes are being spit out by automated parameters. Hiring managers do not return our phone calls. Maybe we don’t have a degree or it is not viewed as coming from the right school or proper background. Age discrimination may be taking place as well, but we are still here.

In my case I know I have many skills that an employer should be interested. I am a leader. I can hire, train and motivate a team to exceed sales goals. I create loyalty to me among my employees. I am computer literate. I have managed a $50 million territory. I can establish relationships with my customers that lead to additional sales. I can solve problems when they occur. I can see a project through from start to finish. I know how to seek help when I need it and smart enough to recognize that I don’t know it all. I am a team player who is not afraid to express my thoughts and ideas, willing to argue my point, and then go forward with the team’s decision even if it was not what I thought we should do. I am dedicated to my job and will do what it takes to get it done on time and on budget.

I too am a Susan Boyle (just not female!)

We too are ready to rock the world. We’re just waiting to be found. So what are you waiting for?

Life is good!