The first day at a new job is a lot like the first day at a new school. You're not entirely sure what to expect, and you hope the kids like you.
When I got laid-off the second time in my dotcom career, in 2003, I became a bit jaded about work. I felt as though you couldn't rely on The Man, and the idea that you could work anywhere for long periods was little more than an ideal at that point. I think that's why with nearly every job I've had since, I've felt a little defeated when I started anew. It's like I haven't solved the problem.
While I still get that feeling to a certain degree, ICOM showed me that there are pretty good companies with very smart people out there. It took awhile for me to admit that, mostly after I got laid-off. I consider my time there a great success, even though I never quite had the opportunity to take ownership in something the way I would've liked to.
And ever since then it has been a goal of mine to find a gig where I'd get to come in on the ground floor and shape process and influence vision. It's not something I desire out of ego or a notch on my resume, but rather it's because I love being able to create things. It's something I've mostly only accomplished via coaching. Guiding a process that leads to something bigger is extremely gratifying.
The offer on this gig was very similar to the one I had for the one that, uh, didn't work out. But I looked at the environment, talked to the owners, and felt strongly that there was some serious potential there to settle into the kind of role I've been looking for.
I felt pretty good about where things were headed when they gave me a conference room for an office. That was a pretty good sign. Lots of room, giant whiteboard... and windows. I really felt like I was being taken seriously, which is an empowering feeling.
I haven't really had the chance to talk to anyone at length yet except for the project managers, but it feels like there's a pretty good sense of collaboration there. The first week I'm sure will be very telling.
So I'm cautiously optimistic. After 2.5 years at my last job, I believe that there are jobs out there than can last. Hopefully this is one of them. I really don't want to look anymore.