Last week I was delighted… actually that would be an understatement.
I was thrilled, excited, a little scared, nervous, bursting with excitement, pride, disbelief and I even carried a touch of sadness, to finally, drum roll please… have the book launch for my beautiful blue book, Employable. Who knew all those emotions could be embroiled, packaged up at once!
It finally happened last week, at the gorgeous George Street Dymocks store, and I loved every moment of the night! I made a conscious effort to be present in the lead-up and on the night, savouring every moment. But, before I share some of the beautiful photos and video, I would like to say thank you! Thank you to my family and friends, to everyone who attended and to all of you who supported me throughout the writing of Employable, especially the EST10 team (Rachel 😊). If you have purchased and read Employable– THANK YOU.
Just before the event, I was so pleased to find out that Employable is now available worldwide, is in the prestigious bookstores, Waterstones in the UK and has been translated into Vietnamese!
As part of the event, the renowned and wonderful Greg Savage was the MC, and we had an ‘In Conversation’ session. I thought to share some of those questions and insights with you…
The first question was why and how it came about that I wrote a book. The answer was sort of easy. I was approached by a publisher (Lesley Williams, Major Street), and an opportunity I couldn’t say no to. I had never written anything longer than a blog, my attention span was close to a gnat, and I had so many stresses and responsibilities at that time. I did not know how I could possibly find the time, let alone the skill. Plus- what story can I possibly tell? It would be easy to say no, right? I mean, it was flattering enough that I was asked. You see, herein lies the problem with my personality. I can never say no to a challenge or opportunity, and this was no different. I do not like to be afraid of things (spiders aside of course- no one likes them).
So, my answer and message to everyone on that night was to consider all opportunities that cross your path. Often in life we only have a window to grab them. They won’t wait around for us to find the perfect time or to come back to them when most convenient. Also, saying no is often too easy an option. Say yes!
Greg then asked how easy it was to write the book and did it come quickly. Is he crazy? Those who know me will tell you it was not easy or quick! At the start, there was a bucket load of procrastination. I mean, my house had never been cleaner and then there was the typing course I put myself on (each day!). However, once I got into the flow of writing and a book started to emerge, it was a blissful magic. Typically, I would write in the very early hours of the morning.
Selfishly, it is the favourite part of my day; you have the world all to yourself!! I got lost in my thoughts, researching, and exploring ideas, adoring the use of prose and words. It is why I continue to write now and why, spoiler alert, I am thinking about another book.
The other critical question asked that I just have to share was if given our current employment market, i.e., record low unemployment levels, should we still be concerned about being employable? My answer is without a doubt YES, more than ever! The world is fast moving and unpredictable. The talent shortage will not last forever, and we have all witnessed how quickly our existence can change in an instant. Skills are fast developing and not concerned or related to employment levels. Plus, the problem when spoilt for job choice like this is we can become complacent and that is dangerous in any regard.
Now is the best time to work on your employability whilst you have the security and opportunity to do so. And always think big picture and ahead!
There was so much more from the night. I will leave you with the video from the event; if you weren’t able to make it, I hope this transports you there…
Lashings of love!
Rox
As Founder and Managing Director at EST10, Roxanne has an all-encompassing role that includes building and growing the business, as well as actively recruiting and consulting.
After completing a Bachelor’s Degree at Monash University, Roxanne began her recruitment career with renowned recruiter Julia Ross. From there, Roxanne worked in HR and recruitment with a number of global players and boutique businesses throughout Australia, the UK, Singapore and Hong Kong for over 20 years. She has been responsible for managing large teams and projects, implementing RPO models, managing and assisting businesses to an IPO and assisting companies in setting up their recruitment teams and processes.
Following completion of her MBA at the Australian Graduate School of Management, Roxanne launched EST10 in July 2010. In doing so, she hoped to combine the flexibility and high touch service levels of boutique agencies with the structure and strategy afforded to larger firms. Roxanne believes in high-touch, high-care consulting and is always on the lookout for consultants that share this vision of recruitment.
