The Stigma of Short Term

We all have at least one short friend (mines prefers the term "vertically challenged"). Imagine how they carry themselves: Fun-sized, but confident. They can carry quite a punch of energy.

Now, imagine a recent evening you enjoyed out of the house. Maybe it was a concert, a night at the lounge, or the park. It only lasted a few hours (if that), but the memories you've gained will last for a long time.

So why do we view "short-term" work experience through such a different lens?

There are side eyes and raised eyebrows. But some of the most enjoyable experiences and memories we have are the short bursts, the few hours we spent in good company—the few moments where everything just aligned. We should be able to illustrate short work experience in the same manner!

It starts in the mind, with YOUR mind. Sit down with yourself and think deeper to replace your internal "notes":

"It was 90 days, but in that time, I gained x, y, and z skills."

"With the time allotted, I was awarded ___ and ___"

"From that experience, I was able to connect with [insert colleague here] and learn about ___ in said industry"

Don't focus on how short the time was. Hiring managers and haters will do that for you! Focus on how much you gained in that period, because you can learn and build impact in so many ways with a limited amount of time. When you draft it all out, you will tend to have more than just "money" as an answer. Consider those answers as benefits, and apply them as tools in your next stage.

Venture forth! I encourage you to break the stigma and reframe XP in your mind.

Because, like your friend, they carry quite a punch!