Over the weekend people across the world have been locking themselves away with their Netflix account, as the third season of the popular series "Orange is the New Black" was released. But watching the show may provide more than just an entertaining way to unwind. Whilst it may not seem advisable to take life inspiration from the characters, most of whom have wound up serving long sentences due to an assortment of terrible life choices, there are a number of lessons that can be learned from our favourite felons that could actually help guide you in finding your perfect career...
1. You might not get it right first time around
Okay, so not everyone's mistakes mean that they wind up serving time in prison (and try to make sure that yours don't) but it's perfectly normal not to immediately find yourself on the correct path in life. If you've finished your degree and realised that it is completely unrelated to the kind of jobs you'd like to pursue, try not to worry. There may be other routes you can take into your career of choice, or transferrable skills from your degree that employers will find valuable. Finding that your interests and aspirations have changed from when you were a fresher doesn't mean you shouldn't aim for your new dream career.
2. Think Big
Outlaws they may be, but many of the main women in OITNB were highly successful in what they did before they wound up in prison. Alex may have ultimately ruined her life through becoming an international drug smuggler, but before it all went wrong she was at the top of her game and highly successful at what she did. Applying her drive and determination in a more legitimate field could result in great things - why settle for a career where you know you won't achieve your full potential? The world is your oyster (just don't push the limits of the law).
3. Have confidence
One thing the ladies at Litchfield have in abundance is self-confidence. Some of them may take it to the extreme and it may not always work in their favour, especially when it comes to getting along with the other inmates. However, in the right amounts, confidence is a characteristic that is essential when searching for jobs. You need to have assurance in your own abilities to be able to market yourself to potential employers, and not sell yourself short when applying for roles. It's obvious really: if you've graduated University with a good degree and some experience under your belt, you shouldn't be applying for a full time job as a cleaner - unless of course cleaning is your passion. Have the confidence to aim higher. Likewise in interviews, a confident manner will make you appear self-assured and highly employable.
4. Be resourceful
From the first episode when Piper resorts to crafting her own shower shoes out of sanitary pads, it is clear that resourcefulness goes a long way when you're in prison. The same is true for when you are searching for a job. Make sure to use all the resources available to you, such as visiting your careers service and attending careers fairs whilst at University. Make use of social media and websites such as LinkedIn to suss out and connect with potential employers, and keep an eye out for any opportunities that might bring you a step closer to building your ideal career.
5. Stay positive
The job hunt may not always be easy, and there may be times when you feel like giving up. But if a group of women sentenced to years in prison can find the positives in their situation, then so can you. You may not land your ideal job in the first couple of months after leaving University, but that doesn't mean you should become disheartened. After all, at least you are still free to eat tacos whenever you choose.
6. And finally... Don't get incarcerated
Seriously. It looks bad on your CV.
