Sheila and I have discovered that our role as missionary employment coaches is so much more than coaching people about how to find their next job. Job loss can be devastating. Even the most resilient person can lose confidence and self-esteem. Sometimes, the loss of confidence, the loss of structure and the pressure to find a job can result in overwhelm to the point that a job seeker becomes paralyzed and has a hard time starting and completing actions that can help them get a job.
If we simply try to hold them accountable without helping them overcome the overwhelm or re-discover their motivation, then we become less than helpful, just another added pressure to the existing ones. But, if we can help them feel the love of God and help them regain their motivation, some confidence, and some self-esteem, then we become helpful. Helping them rediscover their sources of motivation, confidence, and strength is more important than a coach pointing them out as deficiencies. Asking key questions that help connect to an eternal perspective, as well as to their values and goals can help. We’ll continue to learn how best to help job seekers, not just in finding a job, but finding their best selves again.