Hey Reader,

Welcome to issue #012 of The Next Chapter, a career planning newsletter for LGBTQ+ professionals.

This week, I'm covering:

• Webinar recap: Are you running from or toward something?
• Applying for jobs in December
• Grow your network through volunteering
• 10% off gifted coaching packages

Let's dive in.

Side hustle webinar recap

Thanks to everyone who joined my webinar on Wednesday! It was great to dig into the topic of side hustles, which I don’t talk about too much.

If you missed it, I wanted to highlight an important question about side hustles that I posed to the audience: Are you running from something or toward something?

Running from might sound like:

• “My boss is terrible.”
• “I need an escape plan.”
• “I hate my job and need to get out.”
• “I’m so burned out I can’t take it anymore.”

Running toward might sound like:

• “I’ve always wanted to try this.”
• “There’s a skill I want to develop.”
• “I have this idea I’m excited about.”
• “I want to build something of my own.”

Running from something isn’t inherently bad. Sometimes you need to leave a difficult situation. But if that’s your primary motivation, I’d encourage you to ask yourself: Is a side hustle the best solution? Or do you need to address the root problem first—maybe by finding a new job, having a hard conversation, or making a change in your current role?

A side hustle can be a great path forward, but it works best when you’re moving toward something you want, not just away from something you don’t. Be clear about your "why."

Keep applying for jobs in December

For better or for worse, we've officially entered "let's circle back next year" season. And the job market is still buzzing.

If you're on the job hunt and worried about whether it's worth applying in the weeks leading up to the holidays, I recommend sticking with it.

Not only are new jobs still being posted every day, but some employers may be trying to expedite the process because they need to fill the position before January. I was once part of a hiring panel that had to find someone in December or we would lose the approved headcount since it wasn't included in the budget for the following fiscal year. This week, I spotted some contract and part-time roles with early January start dates listed.

I wouldn't expect as many responses between Christmas and New Year's since many employers close during that week or just have a lot of people taking PTO. But if you have the time and energy, keep putting yourself out there.

Grow your network through volunteering

If going to a traditional networking event sounds like hell but you still want to build your professional network IRL, consider volunteering.

In Issue #007, I talked about how to build a queer, values-aligned network. One of those strategies is to get involved in a cause you care about.

This year, I returned to volunteering after a long hiatus. I signed up for shifts cleaning up the National AIDS Memorial Grove in Golden Gate Park and installing the pink triangle on Twin Peaks. I’m currently volunteering with the Golden Gate Business Association to help develop new sponsorships and partnerships (I’m also a dues-paying member).

Volunteering is a great way to meet people you might not have crossed paths with otherwise—people from different professions, industries, neighborhoods, or generations. It benefits the local community, feels good, and can even lead to unexpected opportunities. I once had a volunteer gig turn into a part-time job.

And if you’re in a major metro, check out Gay For Good to see if you have a local chapter.

Give the gift of clarity

If someone you care about needs help with career planning or the job search, I’m offering 10% off coaching packages to anyone who purchases one as a gift this holiday season.

Some of my past clients were in a tough spot when a friend or family member purchased a coaching package for them. It gave them the space and support they needed to clarify their goals and take action.

If you’re interested in gifting a coaching package between now and December 31, 2025, reply to this email and I’ll walk you through the options and next steps.

Tell me what’s on your mind

I want this newsletter to be community-driven. It’s meant for you, so it should be valuable to you.

If there's a topic you want me to cover, don’t be shy about hitting the ‘Reply’ button. It might just end up in the next issue.

See you next week.