Let me introduce you to my Uncle Pete — my godfather, our family’s resident showman, and the man who’d walk into Grandma’s house, throw his arms wide, and announce:
“I am here. The party can begin!”
He was a character. Funny. Bold. In love with his work.
And he made sure everyone knew it.
We had big family gatherings — 50+ people squeezed into Grandma’s house — but Uncle Pete always stole the show. Working in advertising, he’d sometimes show up with a brand-new radio jingle. One year, he proudly played:
“Call Roto-Rooter, that’s the name. And away go troubles down the drain.”
Four times. During Christmas.
We didn’t mind. His passion was just that contagious.
This year, I hope you channel a little Uncle Pete.
Even if your holiday gatherings are smaller, use them. Talk to people. Ask about their work. Be curious. Be bold.
Whether you’re job seeking, polishing your resume, prepping for job interviews, or updating your LinkedIn profile, these conversations can spark all kinds of ideas.
Think of yourself as a “career detective” with a glass of eggnog in hand.
What to talk about (without feeling weird)
1. Job titles & responsibilities
Titles change constantly, and half the new ones sound made-up. Comparing notes is fun—and helpful. You might hear a title and think, “Hey… I could do that.”
You can’t look for a job if you don’t know the name of it.
2. Companies
Ask about culture. What’s growing? What’s shifting?
Questions like “How are things going since the reorg?” work almost every time.
3. Industries
There are whole fields today that didn’t exist a decade ago. SaaS. Online learning. Digital everything. Chances are your skills translate beautifully. Every industry needs problem-solvers.
And if a job lead pops up?
Follow it.
Ask for names.
Ask for job titles.
And then:
“If I send you my resume, would you forward it to the right person?”
Simple. Kind. Effective.
Don’t ask for a job — ask for information.
Make it an easy, lighthearted exchange.
Be like Uncle Pete.
Show up. Shine a little.
Let people see the spark you have for your work.
Passion spreads fast — especially this time of year.
On your side,
Catherine Jewell
The Career Passion® Coach
P.S. My beloved Uncle Pete — Peter Flynn, Sr. — passed away in 2013 at age 86. He was my godfather and the Chairman Emeritus of the ad agency he founded. Three of his four sons worked beside him for years. He kept showing up, contributing, and creating well into his 80s.
He’s the reason I spent my first 15 years in advertising… and the reason I still believe in creativity, boldness, and sharing the work you love.
PPS: Want to talk about your next career move? Use this link to schedule a free consultation.