God's Plan

Let me turn my music down a minute to focus. (Listening to my favorite rapper, Drake).

I've been asked a few times why resume writing? Okay, maybe more like 2 dozen times, from family, friends, business owners at networking events and the likes. It's the most highly sought and asked question I receive when someone inquiry about my job. My typical answer sounds like this... (Mm...Clears throat) I've been in the HR field for quite some time, mostly as a recruiter so I have the knowledge and expertise from a sourcing, strategy, ATS friendly and communication perspective. Straight-forward, right? Wrong!! While everything I mentioned above is true, there is another 2/3rd of the puzzle that I rarely mention for several reasons. It's a very long and complicated history with destiny and more importantly, I'd never felt comfortable sharing that piece of the puzzle.

The short story is simple. It's the title of this blog but I wouldn't dare make you scroll to the top of the post just to figure it out. Plus, there is so much more to story.. But simply put, it is GOD’S PLAN.

See, it was revealed to me at an early age that I had a knack for words. My teachers always mentioned that I was a great writer and nevertheless, my sisters and friends sung the same song. As years past, God informed me that I will be a writer in some capacity, helping people.

My answer: Kanye Shrug...

After college, I was met with the obvious "So, Larisa, What are you going to do now since you graduated?"

My answer: "I don't know." With that being said, I took the first job offered to me making $8.75 per hour. Disappointment is an understatement. I enjoyed the job but absolutely despised the pay. I'm sure you can understand why. Long story short, God confirmed once again that I would be a writer, helping people. However, this time he (God) mentioned that I would help people in their career (resumes). Now let me pause to say, I grew up pretty shy and timid so I went along to get along in most cases. But in this case, I mustered up confidence from somewhere and proclaimed with direct authority "No!" Again, I discounted the thought and continued to work my own plan.. And as I was working my plan, God was also working his plan. Needless to say, his plan prevailed. I thought okay bummer right. Wrong again. See, throughout the journey, I learned some important things about myself.

One, I did not think I would enjoy writing all day. It reminds me of reading and I am definitely not a reader (no offense to readers).

Two, I am not a people's person. In fact, I am quite shy. If you ask a question, I would answer it. Nothing more, nothing less.

Three, I am not a fan of being a sales woman. I am terrible at it. More-so, I have a take it or leave it approach which consist of the initial offer followed by a yes or no. No haggling, no persuasion, nada!!!!

Fourth and ultimately, the biggest reason is more of a double edge sword. I dispelled this calling because it exposed my greatest weakness.. I didn't believe in myself. I just knew God had it all wrong. How could I help? Help them with what? I struggled in the same area? It didn't make sense. But the reality was, he had it right all alone. And for every excuse I gave (reference above), a reason was revealed.

And then everything just clicked. I realized that I am helping people like me. People that didn't see or understand their value... People that could not articulate that value on paper... People who knew they were qualified but couldn't understand what was going wrong... People who wanted and needed to stand out among the crowd... People who struggle to understand what hiring managers and recruiters are truly looking for... People who were in some cases just like me. So to speak, I am just a tool used to positively impact people's lives by sharing knowledge, truth and confidence to inspire people in advancing their career and obtaining success. Although I couldn't see the vision of Chic Resumes and Services then, I truly do now. And in the world of resume writing, my goal is simple: to leave a lasting (better know as CHIC) impression on those reading and listening.

In the words of Drake "I thank God for what’s happening right now". Now, back to my music…

-Confessions of a Resume Writer-