Surviving Pandemic Career Changes—Interview with Modern Mentor Rachel Cooke

These days, I sometimes find my eyes glazing over as I stare at a grid of Zoom zombies, my mind slipping to my dinner plans or to days when human contact felt more energizing. Then I pinch myself with the reminder that I'm lucky just to have a steady job, in a pandemic economy where many are facing unemployment, losing their businesses, having to reinvent everything they do, or working in jobs that literally put their lives at risk.

I truly am fortunate. But I've also been hearing from many, both employed and unemployed, who are struggling. For people whose livelihoods have been upended by the past year, there is daily stress in the uncertainty of their career futures. People like me who are fortunate to have jobs may experience burnout or feel stuck. What can we all do to keep our career momentum going, whether we're currently unemployed or missing our career mojo?

Joining me today to offer her compassionate yet concrete advice is Rachel Cooke, founder of Lead Above Noise, a team-, leadership-, and organization-development consultancy. She is also the host of the Modern Mentor podcast, a weekly show here on the Quick and Dirty Tips network where she informs, equips, and empowers her  listeners to define and create their own versions of professional success.

Have a listen to our conversation by clicking the audio player above so you'll get every nuance or read this lightly edited transcript.

Dr. Jade Wu

I am delighted to introduce you to Rachel Cook. She is the host of the fantastic modern mentor podcast. Rachel has built a career out of inspiring people to perform at their best, all with a dash of humor and fun. She's a consultant coach and speaker who's been featured in publications like Fast Company, Huffington Post, and many more. Rachel is also the founder of Lead Above Noise, a leadership and organization development firm with a mission to deliver the insights, tools, and strategies that empower people and teams to achieve their fullest potential. Welcome to the show, Rachel.

Rachel Cooke

Jade, I'm so excited to be here.

Lost jobs versus lost momentum

Jade

Let's talk about the big elephant in the room, which is that during the pandemic, a lot of people are facing unemployment, underemployment, or uncertain employment futures at just record numbers. So how can we cope with these employment-related stressors?

Rachel

There are so many people that are struggling or suffering right now, which is why I think my expertise and your expertise sit so nicely together. You know, I'll tell you,...

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