In Licking County, opportunities abound for those who know where to look. Whether you’re contemplating your first part-time job, planning for your future career, or seeking community engagement, one principle reigns supreme: Don’t merely search for job vacancies—focus instead on uncovering unmet needs within our community.

What does this entail? It requires you to shift your perspective from being a job seeker to becoming a problem solver. Identifying and addressing unmet needs doesn’t merely make you an applicant; it transforms you into a valuable asset. This is a universally acknowledged truth, be it in the bustling businesses of Newark or the tight-knit communities in Granville and surrounding areas.

The adage, “It’s not what you know but who you know,” holds a grain of truth. However, the most fruitful opportunities frequently arise from unaddressed needs in the community. This could range from offering support to local businesses, to volunteering at community centers, to even identifying inefficiencies within your own school’s activities.

For instance, consider a scenario where you are involved in a school club or sports team and notice a decline in event attendance due to a lack of awareness. Taking the initiative, you propose managing the organization’s social media to boost visibility and engagement. As attendance improves, you find yourself in a newly minted role as the club’s or team’s Social Media Manager. This role wasn’t found; it was created out of a recognized need, thereby providing you valuable experience for your future endeavors.

The core message is this: Your potential for creating meaningful connections and valuable opportunities increases manifold when you shift your focus toward understanding and solving the needs of others. This not only serves your community but also sets the foundation for your own success, whether your path leads to higher education, vocational training, or directly into the workforce.

Stay vigilant and attentive to the nuances of your surroundings. Opportunities often materialize in the most unexpected places—sometimes as close as your local community event or a casual conversation with a neighbor.