We all have dreams for the future–landing the job we’ve always dreamed of, finding the significant other who completes us, traveling the world. These things and more motivate us and keep us moving to the future.
A couple weeks ago, Jasmine Pak–a recent college grad and former production intern at NBC Universal–posted a heartbreaking message on her LinkedIn feed. The essence of her post was that in a short period of time, she was rejected for her dream job and several other opportunities that she had pinned her hopes on. However, instead of becoming a victim of her own pain, Jasmine used her post to encourage others to stay positive as they pursue their own dreams.
The message struck a deep chord with those who read it, and it so far has garnered more than 62,000 likes and over 4,500 comments. Not only that, but the post attracted the attention of LinkedIn CEO Jeff Weiner and representatives from Google, NBC, and Open Slate.
Here’s the original text of Jasmine’s post:
Today, I was rejected from a media program that had been on my radar for many years. A few weeks ago, I was rejected from my dream job with a company that had a huge impact on my growth as both an individual and as a professional. Since graduating from UC Berkeley a month and a half ago, I have been rejected from countless opportunities that I knew I would excel in. Each rejection came with a stab at my ego, my hope, and my self-worth.
Despite these rejections, I have never let my passion for media take a toll. My passion for accurate minority representation in media has always driven me to be the best I can be. It’s motivated me to work harder than I ever thought imaginable. What more does it take to land these jobs even after pulling out every trick in the resume & interview & networking handbooks?
Today was not a good day in the job hunting process, but it’s okay. Don’t let the negativity take over this grueling process. Remember where your passions root from. Smile and encourage yourself. After all, you are your biggest supporter.
CEO Jeff Weiner responded to Jasmine’s post in a series of two comments:
Jasmine, thanks for sharing your experience on LinkedIn and for the words of encouragement for others also looking for a job. Curious, what specifically is the dream job you’re looking for?
Jasmine, with that level of clarity, sounds like you are clearly on the right path. Look forward to hearing how the search continues to evolve.
Looking for your own dream job? It may be much closer than you think. According to LinkedIn career expert Blair Decembrele, “Almost 80% of LinkedIn members consider professional networking to be important to new job opportunities and career success,” but “70% of people were hired at a company where they had a connection.” Read Blair’s complete post on the best way to land your next job opportunity.
Based on all the attention Jasmine’s post has received, I personally believe that she’s closer to landing her dream job than she might imagine. I–along with thousands of others–certainly hope she finds it soon.
The opinions expressed here by Inc.com columnists are their own, not those of Inc.com.