Are you sick of hearing bad news about the economy and job market? Well then, this post is for you.
I'm not trying to discount the fact that a lot of people are suffering professionally these days. Yet, the reality is that a recession actually has some short-term and long-term upsides when it comes to how we manage our careers. That's right, there is some good coming out of 2.5M jobs lost, wide-spread hiring freezes, and a soon to reach double-digit unemployment rate.
Here are three good things a recession does for our careers:
1) Makes being 'let-go' not as hard to accept, nor as difficult to explain.
Today, I spoke to someone who just got let go from their job with a radio station. He's not that upset about it. Why? He simply said, "My manager told me 20 other people on the team got let go too - and I was the most recent hire. So, I know it had nothing to do with my performance." Getting laid-off is mainstream. We all know one or more individuals who lost their job recently. Which means, those who get let go aren't taking it as personally as they would if it happened in a good economy. Instead of feeling singled-out and wondering, "What's wrong with me?" they are able to effectively rationalize the situation by saying, "I'm not the only one. This was out of my control."
2) Gets people to rethink the concept of evaluating people based on what they do for a living.
Our society has always put heavy emphasis on determining how much respect to give someone based on their profession...until now. We live in a culture where the phrase, "What do you do?" is asked as frequently, if not more so, than, "How are you?" Let's be honest, we are all guilty of sizing up someone we've just met and making huge assumptions about them based on what they say they do for work. But in an economy like this, job status suddenly shifts. Those that are employed, regardless of their education or job title, have everyone's attention. This shift has a profound impact on how we connect with others. It helps us to see people differently, and in many cases, build relationships with those we might not have bothered to connect with in the past. For example, getting a college degree has always been a status climber in the US, but watch this 20/20 segment and you'll have a whole new respect for the savvy individual who opted to work their way through trade school. In short, a new set of careers suddenly becomes 'attractive' in a recession.
3) Forces people to accept jobs they wouldn't have otherwise taken.
Needing to pay the bills can make even the most discerning job seeker take work that will provide a paycheck. In doing so, people make new and often valuable connections, and in some cases, even discover new career paths. A young man I knew took a job bartending after college at a local country club. He had a degree in finance, but couldn't land a job. Instead, he spent several months serving drinks to the club members. He got to know a lot of the regulars quite well, to the point that he would get their drinks ready as they walked in the door without them asking. One day, one of the members who had been particularly impressed by the bartender's attentiveness and professionalism asked him about his background. The grad shared his story of getting a degree but not being able to find work. The member gave him his business card and the name of a person at his office to call for an interview. One week later, the former bartender was in a new full-time job.
By JT O'Donnell
Showing posts with label degree. Show all posts
Showing posts with label degree. Show all posts
Friday, 30 January 2009
Changing Careers in Uncertain Times
If you feel your job is unfulfilled and boring, or that your talents are not appreciated, you are not alone. Everyone, now and then feels the need to freshen their talents and gain new experience in the field of their choosing. The choice to make a career choice must be carefully made, but it may not be for you.
It is very important to consider all the options before choosing to change your line of work. This may well be one of the biggest decisions you will make in your life and in these times it is even more important to choose carefully. If you are having doubts about these choices, then here are a few tips to help you make the correct choice.
Prioritise your goals - Your goals should be what determines your decision to stay or go to a new job. Visualise the new working environment, the tasks as hand, the new co-workers, hours, location etc. Is this really the right move now?
Do you want a job which gives utmost financial satisfaction? State everything that you want to achieve, and do not only involve your own life in the process. Also consult family and friends about the decision that you have to make. Remember that these people are the ones who know you best.
Examine your skills - No one knows better than you what your strengths and weaknesses are. Write down all the skills and experience you have accumulated over your working career. Pay special attention to those skills you may take for granted, but highly prized by employers.
What were the things that your previous company has developed in you? Do you think that you will be able to use these skills in your new job once you get one? If not, then there is a need for you to further develop these skills in order for you to be ready for the next job that you are going to embark in.
Where would you like to go - After considering your experience, skills and capabilities, you can start to discover why it is you really want to leave your job in the first place. Were you not given the opportunity to grow in your job or develop your skills?
Is your new job much different to the one that you have already? You may want a big change or you may want a similar job, but different environment. If you want something different in your career, then make sure the job you are considering is different.
Research your dream job - If you want to switch jobs and careers, then you have to have a clear idea of what job you should be in. Always research new jobs and evaluate yourself as to what changes are needed to satisfy your career. Knowing about the jobs and careers that you would like to be in will provide you with a good idea on where you would be in the next few years.
By Eamo Mur
It is very important to consider all the options before choosing to change your line of work. This may well be one of the biggest decisions you will make in your life and in these times it is even more important to choose carefully. If you are having doubts about these choices, then here are a few tips to help you make the correct choice.
Prioritise your goals - Your goals should be what determines your decision to stay or go to a new job. Visualise the new working environment, the tasks as hand, the new co-workers, hours, location etc. Is this really the right move now?
Do you want a job which gives utmost financial satisfaction? State everything that you want to achieve, and do not only involve your own life in the process. Also consult family and friends about the decision that you have to make. Remember that these people are the ones who know you best.
Examine your skills - No one knows better than you what your strengths and weaknesses are. Write down all the skills and experience you have accumulated over your working career. Pay special attention to those skills you may take for granted, but highly prized by employers.
What were the things that your previous company has developed in you? Do you think that you will be able to use these skills in your new job once you get one? If not, then there is a need for you to further develop these skills in order for you to be ready for the next job that you are going to embark in.
Where would you like to go - After considering your experience, skills and capabilities, you can start to discover why it is you really want to leave your job in the first place. Were you not given the opportunity to grow in your job or develop your skills?
Is your new job much different to the one that you have already? You may want a big change or you may want a similar job, but different environment. If you want something different in your career, then make sure the job you are considering is different.
Research your dream job - If you want to switch jobs and careers, then you have to have a clear idea of what job you should be in. Always research new jobs and evaluate yourself as to what changes are needed to satisfy your career. Knowing about the jobs and careers that you would like to be in will provide you with a good idea on where you would be in the next few years.
By Eamo Mur
Career Metamorphosis
Are you happy at your current job?
Do you enjoy waking up every day and going to work for your employer?
If I asked you what you are passionate about, could you give me an answer?
The sad reality is most people I've talked with are not happy where they work and have NO IDEA what they are passionate about.
What in the hell happened to us? How did we create a career or work environment where the status quo is acceptable, maybe even preferred?
"I just want to do an honest day's work for an honest day's wage."
What does that mean?
Do you have a pulse?
Bring in the crash cart!
If you are in a dead-end job that is no longer challenging or you are working for a company stuck in the "old guard" way of doing things, you have an excellent opportunity to dramatically change your reality.
No more excuses.
No whining.
No settling.
Prepare to leave the job that is killing your soul.
Imagine if you decided to let all of the drama fall away and began to take stock of your strengths, and true interests. What if you could immerse yourself in a training program, class or book to learn more about your discovery?
What if you could become the most amazing version of yourself to date?
A part of self exploration involves making an investment in YOU by taking some time to map out your dream. You've heard me talk about mind maps, vision boards and dream quests. What do you have to lose by taking a closer look?
Stop putting up with corporate sadism and shake yourself off like the big dog you are!
Uncover your options.
What is it about you that makes you special?
What do you want to do?
Seriously, if you could do, be or have anything you wanted, what would that look like for you?
Do you really plan to wait another two, three, four or five years to make a change?
WHY?
Are you a masochist?
Corporate loyalty is an illusion.
If you are ready to leave the job that is killing your soul, begin with the following actions:
* Identify your strengths and talents. If you were to ask 5 people that know you well; what would they tell you about you?
* Explore how you can apply your strengths to your career interests - do some digging. Immerse yourself in this research.
* Discover a mentor and create an opportunity to have a conversation with her.
That's it ...
Identify, Explore and Discover.
GET TO IT!
"Your life is worth much more than you know" - Maya Angelou
Unconventional, spirited and delightfully curious, Shann Vander Leek is a fresh new voice in the arena of mindfulness and extreme self care. She is the founder of True Balance Life Coaching, LLC. and a Coach Training Alliance Certified Coach and Yoga Instructor. Shann inspires women in transition to create balance in their lives through personal coaching, yoga and creative expression.
She is the author of the e-book Getting Your Groove Back - A Luscious Living Guide and Co-author of a new series of team-authored books for women titled, Wake Up Women BE Happy, Healthy & Wealthy. Shann's personal style and direct approach have guided many in overcoming personal and professional challenges. Her background in broadcast television advertising sales,marketing and client development along with leading a talented sales force for 11 years prepared her for the business of professional coaching.
Telephone and email consultations make Shann accessible to clients all over the world. Visit http://www.truebalancelifecoaching.com to sign up for Getting Your Groove Back - A complimentary Life Balance e-course.
By Shann Vander Leek
Do you enjoy waking up every day and going to work for your employer?
If I asked you what you are passionate about, could you give me an answer?
The sad reality is most people I've talked with are not happy where they work and have NO IDEA what they are passionate about.
What in the hell happened to us? How did we create a career or work environment where the status quo is acceptable, maybe even preferred?
"I just want to do an honest day's work for an honest day's wage."
What does that mean?
Do you have a pulse?
Bring in the crash cart!
If you are in a dead-end job that is no longer challenging or you are working for a company stuck in the "old guard" way of doing things, you have an excellent opportunity to dramatically change your reality.
No more excuses.
No whining.
No settling.
Prepare to leave the job that is killing your soul.
Imagine if you decided to let all of the drama fall away and began to take stock of your strengths, and true interests. What if you could immerse yourself in a training program, class or book to learn more about your discovery?
What if you could become the most amazing version of yourself to date?
A part of self exploration involves making an investment in YOU by taking some time to map out your dream. You've heard me talk about mind maps, vision boards and dream quests. What do you have to lose by taking a closer look?
Stop putting up with corporate sadism and shake yourself off like the big dog you are!
Uncover your options.
What is it about you that makes you special?
What do you want to do?
Seriously, if you could do, be or have anything you wanted, what would that look like for you?
Do you really plan to wait another two, three, four or five years to make a change?
WHY?
Are you a masochist?
Corporate loyalty is an illusion.
If you are ready to leave the job that is killing your soul, begin with the following actions:
* Identify your strengths and talents. If you were to ask 5 people that know you well; what would they tell you about you?
* Explore how you can apply your strengths to your career interests - do some digging. Immerse yourself in this research.
* Discover a mentor and create an opportunity to have a conversation with her.
That's it ...
Identify, Explore and Discover.
GET TO IT!
"Your life is worth much more than you know" - Maya Angelou
Unconventional, spirited and delightfully curious, Shann Vander Leek is a fresh new voice in the arena of mindfulness and extreme self care. She is the founder of True Balance Life Coaching, LLC. and a Coach Training Alliance Certified Coach and Yoga Instructor. Shann inspires women in transition to create balance in their lives through personal coaching, yoga and creative expression.
She is the author of the e-book Getting Your Groove Back - A Luscious Living Guide and Co-author of a new series of team-authored books for women titled, Wake Up Women BE Happy, Healthy & Wealthy. Shann's personal style and direct approach have guided many in overcoming personal and professional challenges. Her background in broadcast television advertising sales,marketing and client development along with leading a talented sales force for 11 years prepared her for the business of professional coaching.
Telephone and email consultations make Shann accessible to clients all over the world. Visit http://www.truebalancelifecoaching.com to sign up for Getting Your Groove Back - A complimentary Life Balance e-course.
By Shann Vander Leek
Tips For Getting Ahead in Your Career
Think Ahead
Unfortunately many of us don't necessarily plan for the future of our careers. We think about the here and now.
We close our eyes and hope for the best. However, to be really successful - unless you just happen to be lucky - the key to a successful career is to think and plan ahead.
Choose Your Degree Wisely
Majoring in liberal arts or English Lit might sound like more fun, but how will it read in the corporate environment?
A degree in business, math, or science is going to look far more impressive to your employer.
Don't Stop at Your Bachelor's Degree
Online colleges make getting a degree easier than ever. That means more employees will at least have their bachelor's degree.
So, in order to stand out to your employer, you need to go above and beyond a bachelor's degree. Strive to get a master's degree, or even a PhD.
Be Willing To Take the Odd Assignment
Not only do these odd assignments make a great addition to your resume, they tell employers that you are fearless, flexible, and willing to think "outside the box".
Market Yourself Enthusiastically
Telling people how wonderful we are may sound a bit like bragging. And, for many of us, it's one of the most difficult challenges affecting our ability to move ahead in our careers.
But, unless you've got some incredibly unique skill that no one else in the world can do, it's what you must do to have your abilities recognized and to help you stand out above the competition.
Big Cities Is Where It's At
Career-making Meccas like New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami are the places to go if you want to see your career move in a positive upwardly-mobile direction.
Not only is there more money to be made working in a big city, the growth opportunities are virtually limitless.
Don't Be Afraid To Change Jobs
While you don't want to look like you're job-hopping by changing jobs too frequently, it's not unusual to find yourself up against a brick wall i.e. a not so good supervisor, or perhaps you're lacking enthusiasm you're your current position.
At any rate, changing jobs can add some pizazz back into your career.
Tony Jacowski is a quality analyst for The MBA Journal. Aveta Solutions - Six Sigma Online ( http://www.sixsigmaonline.org ) offers online six sigma training and certification classes for lean six sigma, black belts, green belts, and yellow belts.
By Tony Jacowski
Unfortunately many of us don't necessarily plan for the future of our careers. We think about the here and now.
We close our eyes and hope for the best. However, to be really successful - unless you just happen to be lucky - the key to a successful career is to think and plan ahead.
Choose Your Degree Wisely
Majoring in liberal arts or English Lit might sound like more fun, but how will it read in the corporate environment?
A degree in business, math, or science is going to look far more impressive to your employer.
Don't Stop at Your Bachelor's Degree
Online colleges make getting a degree easier than ever. That means more employees will at least have their bachelor's degree.
So, in order to stand out to your employer, you need to go above and beyond a bachelor's degree. Strive to get a master's degree, or even a PhD.
Be Willing To Take the Odd Assignment
Not only do these odd assignments make a great addition to your resume, they tell employers that you are fearless, flexible, and willing to think "outside the box".
Market Yourself Enthusiastically
Telling people how wonderful we are may sound a bit like bragging. And, for many of us, it's one of the most difficult challenges affecting our ability to move ahead in our careers.
But, unless you've got some incredibly unique skill that no one else in the world can do, it's what you must do to have your abilities recognized and to help you stand out above the competition.
Big Cities Is Where It's At
Career-making Meccas like New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami are the places to go if you want to see your career move in a positive upwardly-mobile direction.
Not only is there more money to be made working in a big city, the growth opportunities are virtually limitless.
Don't Be Afraid To Change Jobs
While you don't want to look like you're job-hopping by changing jobs too frequently, it's not unusual to find yourself up against a brick wall i.e. a not so good supervisor, or perhaps you're lacking enthusiasm you're your current position.
At any rate, changing jobs can add some pizazz back into your career.
Tony Jacowski is a quality analyst for The MBA Journal. Aveta Solutions - Six Sigma Online ( http://www.sixsigmaonline.org ) offers online six sigma training and certification classes for lean six sigma, black belts, green belts, and yellow belts.
By Tony Jacowski
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