There's an up-side to job searching?

We all know how putting our best foot forward can tie us into knots. At times, it's simply discouraging. We also know that the main goal is landing that role that fits. We focus on that at the expense of all else.

But wait, there's more. I'm way impressed with the caliber of the people I meet along the way.  Whether or not I land the position, there are people I want to associate with. I may be some kind of weird social butterfly, but I've connected with folks who have turned me down for jobs I was applying to. (Surprise! You thought you were done with me!)

Sometimes that has paid off in the long run, leading to future roles. Mostly not. But having friendships and positive contacts are their own reward. They enrich both my professional and my personal life.

But wait, there's more. I'm way impressed with how my current friends and colleagues rally around to alert me to openings that I may miss otherwise... besides enriching both my professional and my personal life. You get a huge, heartfelt thank you!

Maybe I'm stretching to see a silver lining, but I think I found a couple.