Mike Profita writes for About.com:Job Searching.
Ten Steps to a Successful Career Change:
1. Evaluate your current job satisfaction. Keep a journal of your daily reactions to your job situation and look for recurring themes. Which aspects of your current job do you like/dislike? Are your dissatisfactions related to the content of your work your company culture or the people with whom you work?
2. Assess your interests, values and skills through self help resources like the exercises in What Color is Your Parachute. Review past successful roles, volunteer work, projects and jobs to identify preferred activities and skills. Determine whether your core values and skills are addressed through your current career.
3. Brainstorm ideas for career alternatives by discussing your core values/skills with friends, family, networking contacts and counselors. Visit career libraries and use online resources like those found in the Career Advice section of the Job Search website.
4. Conduct a preliminary comparative evaluation of several fields to identify a few targets for in depth research.
5. Read as much as you can about those fields and reach out to personal contacts in those arenas for informational interviews.
6. Shadow professionals in fields of primary interest to observe work first hand. Spend anywhere from a few hours to a few days job shadowing people who have jobs that interest you. Your college Career Office is a good place to find alumni volunteers who are willing to host job shadowers.
7. Identify volunteer and freelance activities related to your target field to test your interest e.g. if you are thinking of publishing as a career, try editing the PTA newsletter. If you're interested in working with animals, volunteer at your local shelter.
8. Investigate educational opportunities that would bridge your background to your new field. Consider taking an evening course at a local college. Spend some time at one day or weekend seminars. Contact professional groups in your target field for suggestions.
9. Look for ways to develop new skills in your current job which would pave the way for a change e.g. offer to write a grant proposal if grant writing is valued in your new field. If your company offers in-house training, sign up for as many classes as you can.
10. Consider alternative roles within your current industry which would utilize the industry knowledge you already have e.g. If you are a store manger for a large retail chain and have grown tired of the evening and weekend hours consider a move to corporate recruiting within the retail industry. Or if you are a programmer who doesn't want to program, consider technical sales or project management.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Monday, December 15, 2008
How to Profit from a Career Switch to the Non-Profit Sector - Mark Miller
For millions of Baby Boomers, retirement is an opportunity for reinvention, rather than taking it easy. Mark Miller is helping write the playbook for the new career and personal pursuits of a generation. Mark blogs at www.retirementrevised.com; contact him with questions and comments at mark@retirementrevised.com
Hey, all you laid-off, middle-aged bankers, accountants, programmers, marketers and other well-trained corporate types out there-listen up: Ever thought about working at a not-for profit?
The business world is crumbling all around us, but non-profits have been growing faster than either the business or government sector-and they’re facing a shortage of talent. Best of all, the non-profit sector is gradually waking up to the potential of encore career switchers-people who want to move into new lines of work with meaning in the second half of life.
The MetLife Foundation and Civic Ventures reported in June that a big shift in focus already is well underway. They released a report showing that 5.3 to 8.4 million people between the ages of 44 and 70 are doing work that combines income and personal meaning with social impact, and noted that half of the people in this age group not already in encore careers see this as their future career direction. But are non-profit employers interested in hiring them? Last month, MetLife and Civic Ventures released a second wave of research, this time focused more specifically on non-profit employer attitudes. This study contained more good news for anyone contemplating a non-profit career move:
-Non-profits are worried about finding top talent as they grow; 42 percent see recruiting and hiring talent as a top concern.
-Non-profits that have experience hiring late-career or retired workers are more likely than other employers to see them as appealing candidates, by a margin of 53 to 40 percent, and they seem to like candidates who’ve switched to non-profits from the business world.
-Nearly 70 percent say encore workers bring valuable experience to non-profits. Non-profits are hardly immune to the effects of recession. Demand for their services will rise dramatically in the coming months and years as poverty levels and home foreclosures rise, yet they also face pressure on their own revenue sources. The bear market in stocks will force foundations to cut back on grants as their endowment portfolios shrink, and donations from frightened high-net-worth individuals will fall, too. But longer term, non-profits are expected to keep growing. In fact, the sector will need to hire 640,000 new senior managers by the year 2016, according to The Bridgespan Group, a strategic consulting firm that works with non-profits. And Bridgespan’s data shows that the total number of non-profit groups grew at a 6 percent annual rate from 1995-2004.
“All the data says there is a looming leadership deficit,” says David Simms, managing partner of RETIRE SMART Bridgestar, an arm of Bridgespan that recruits managers for non-profit positions. “That’s not to say there aren’t talented people already in the non-profit sector, because there are. But in terms of supply and demand, you have older boomers leaving to retire or simply to do something new. So there will be a lot of positions to fill.” Simms says job seekers don’t need to target only non-profits where they have subject expertise, or even a preexisting passion for the work. Employers, he says, are looking for people with functional expertise in areas like finance, technology, marketing and communications and general management. But transitioning to non-profit work does require some recalibrated thinking. He advises job-seekers to get their feet wet by volunteering or serving on the board of a non-profit, which can be a great way to learn about cultural and organizational differences.
Compensation also can be an adjustment. Pay may not be at Wall Street levels-that is, if there actually are any Wall Street jobs left for comparison. “They pay a bit less than the private sector, but it’s not like you have to survive on peanut butter,” Simms says.
Job-hunting techniques also need adjusting. Only 10 percent of non-profit openings are posted on any of the online job boards, although Bridgestar itself operates a site for non-profit senior management jobs that it hopes will grow into a major portal for these opportunities at http://www.bridgestar.org/Jobs/
And most non-profit hiring is local; candidates generally aren’t interested in relocating and most employers are too small to have funds available to pay for relocation. That makes local person-to-person networking the most important job-hunting tool, Simms says.
“Friends serving on boards of non-profits can be a great networking tool. Also think about your alumni association or your university’s career resources. Non-profits will often notify them of openings.” I’ve posted some additional non-profit jobhunting resources with the online version of this week’s column at http://retirementrevised.com.
(c) 2008 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
Hey, all you laid-off, middle-aged bankers, accountants, programmers, marketers and other well-trained corporate types out there-listen up: Ever thought about working at a not-for profit?
The business world is crumbling all around us, but non-profits have been growing faster than either the business or government sector-and they’re facing a shortage of talent. Best of all, the non-profit sector is gradually waking up to the potential of encore career switchers-people who want to move into new lines of work with meaning in the second half of life.
The MetLife Foundation and Civic Ventures reported in June that a big shift in focus already is well underway. They released a report showing that 5.3 to 8.4 million people between the ages of 44 and 70 are doing work that combines income and personal meaning with social impact, and noted that half of the people in this age group not already in encore careers see this as their future career direction. But are non-profit employers interested in hiring them? Last month, MetLife and Civic Ventures released a second wave of research, this time focused more specifically on non-profit employer attitudes. This study contained more good news for anyone contemplating a non-profit career move:
-Non-profits are worried about finding top talent as they grow; 42 percent see recruiting and hiring talent as a top concern.
-Non-profits that have experience hiring late-career or retired workers are more likely than other employers to see them as appealing candidates, by a margin of 53 to 40 percent, and they seem to like candidates who’ve switched to non-profits from the business world.
-Nearly 70 percent say encore workers bring valuable experience to non-profits. Non-profits are hardly immune to the effects of recession. Demand for their services will rise dramatically in the coming months and years as poverty levels and home foreclosures rise, yet they also face pressure on their own revenue sources. The bear market in stocks will force foundations to cut back on grants as their endowment portfolios shrink, and donations from frightened high-net-worth individuals will fall, too. But longer term, non-profits are expected to keep growing. In fact, the sector will need to hire 640,000 new senior managers by the year 2016, according to The Bridgespan Group, a strategic consulting firm that works with non-profits. And Bridgespan’s data shows that the total number of non-profit groups grew at a 6 percent annual rate from 1995-2004.
“All the data says there is a looming leadership deficit,” says David Simms, managing partner of RETIRE SMART Bridgestar, an arm of Bridgespan that recruits managers for non-profit positions. “That’s not to say there aren’t talented people already in the non-profit sector, because there are. But in terms of supply and demand, you have older boomers leaving to retire or simply to do something new. So there will be a lot of positions to fill.” Simms says job seekers don’t need to target only non-profits where they have subject expertise, or even a preexisting passion for the work. Employers, he says, are looking for people with functional expertise in areas like finance, technology, marketing and communications and general management. But transitioning to non-profit work does require some recalibrated thinking. He advises job-seekers to get their feet wet by volunteering or serving on the board of a non-profit, which can be a great way to learn about cultural and organizational differences.
Compensation also can be an adjustment. Pay may not be at Wall Street levels-that is, if there actually are any Wall Street jobs left for comparison. “They pay a bit less than the private sector, but it’s not like you have to survive on peanut butter,” Simms says.
Job-hunting techniques also need adjusting. Only 10 percent of non-profit openings are posted on any of the online job boards, although Bridgestar itself operates a site for non-profit senior management jobs that it hopes will grow into a major portal for these opportunities at http://www.bridgestar.org/Jobs/
And most non-profit hiring is local; candidates generally aren’t interested in relocating and most employers are too small to have funds available to pay for relocation. That makes local person-to-person networking the most important job-hunting tool, Simms says.
“Friends serving on boards of non-profits can be a great networking tool. Also think about your alumni association or your university’s career resources. Non-profits will often notify them of openings.” I’ve posted some additional non-profit jobhunting resources with the online version of this week’s column at http://retirementrevised.com.
(c) 2008 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Ten Tips for Surviving a Layoff - Lorelei Logsdon
Lorelei Logsdon is a 40 yr-old wife, mother, and freelance writer currently living in North Carolina. I am here to pursue my love of writing and to network with other writers (see http://www.ljlogsdon.com/)
Losing your job can be one of the most stressful life-events a person can go through. The fear of not being able to find another comparable job in order to provide for your family, the fear of losing your home, your vehicles, and the lifestyle you've become accustomed to, all contribute to this high level of stress.
Cyclical layoffs are a normal part of life within both the mortgage industry and entertainment industry, and since that's where most of my positions have been over the past 14 years, I've been laid off five times. I consider myself to be an authority on the subject simply from personal experience, and with the current state of the economy, it's very possible that you could come face-to-face with a layoff situation as well.
The first thing to understand is that being laid off is not a personal reflection on you. Layoffs are a reflection of the economy - whether globally, nationally, or just within your own industry. Layoffs are one instance where it helps to think of yourself as just a number, since nothing you did or could do would have any effect on the situation. Layoffs have absolutely nothing to do with you personally.
It's normal to feel a bit of panic once the reality of being laid off sets in, and to feel like life is spinning out of control. The trick is to use that negative energy in a positive way to help motivate you, instead of sitting back and just feeling sorry for yourself. It's at this crucial crossroad where you must take control of the situation and be proactive instead of reactive, because if you let fear and depression control you, you won't get very far. Put a positive spin on a negative situation by looking at the layoff as an opportunity to reassess your career goals and maybe realign yourself to your true interests. Surviving a layoff is all about being positive and proactive, instead of playing the part of a victim.
These 15 tips will help you not only to survive a layoff, but to come out on the other side even better for having gone through it.
Apply for unemployment benefits immediately, even if you think you won't be unemployed for very long. Do it while everything is fresh in your mind so that once things settle down you can use your time to focus on your career plan instead of on busywork.
Reassess your monthly budget and make cuts wherever you can, especially frivolous spending such as eating out, unnecessary driving, magazines, cable extras, snack foods, etc.
Don't overreact and end up making rash decisions you'll regret later. Don't rush into a new job, or immediately put your house on the market, or make any large decisions without giving ample rational thought to it first. Remember to think, not react.
Take a career development course to learn how to write an effective cover letter, craft an effective résumé, practice your interviewing skills, learn your strengths and weaknesses, take personality tests, and develop a career plan. If the company that laid you off offers this benefit as part of your severance package, make sure to take advantage of it. (A great example of this service can be found at http://www.right.com)
If your industry was hit particularly hard, think of other industries you can target for your job-search where your skills can be used. Skills in managing people and/or technologies, motivating, speaking, writing, record-keeping, and computer skills are examples of skills that can be used across many various industries. (For more on transferable skills, check out http://careerplanning.about.com/od/careerchoicechan/a/transferable.htm)
Focus on networking instead of cold-calling or blindly mailing out your résumé. At least 70% of all jobs are acquired through some form of networking and referrals. Talk to people at church, your neighbors, other parents picking their kids up at school, those you meet at the grocery store or at your kid's little league game, or other patients waiting in the doctor's office. Every person you meet is a potential contact who could lead you to your next job. Keep notes with names, dates and basic information so you know who's calling if they contact you. Join local interest groups as another way to network in your area.
Prepare your own business cards on basic business-card stock from the office supply store. Provide your contact information and desired job title (i.e. "Project Manager," "C# Developer," "Web Designer," "Mortgage Consultant") and have an ample supply at-the-ready (in your car, in your wallet or purse, etc.) because you never know when you may need one.
Keep your sense of humor so that you don't allow yourself to get too far down. Trying to see the lighter side of a bad situation can help to alleviate the stress. Read the comics section of the newspaper, watch a silly cartoon with your kids, or borrow a funny book from a friend. Try to find something to laugh about every day.
Don't be too proud to ask for help from your family, friends, church, neighbors, etc. Most people are happy to help. If you need someone to watch the kids while you make some calls, or if you need a ride to an interview, or if you just need someone to talk to - don't hesitate to ask for what you need.
Pamper yourself for stress-reduction. Take a warm bubble bath, read a trashy novel, get a massage, take up walking with a neighbor, or borrow a movie you've always wanted to see from a friend. Give yourself permission to have down-time and to relax.
By following these tips you will eventually come to realize that being laid off is not the end of the world and you will come out all the stronger for having survived it. So pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and get back on the ground, running!
Losing your job can be one of the most stressful life-events a person can go through. The fear of not being able to find another comparable job in order to provide for your family, the fear of losing your home, your vehicles, and the lifestyle you've become accustomed to, all contribute to this high level of stress.
Cyclical layoffs are a normal part of life within both the mortgage industry and entertainment industry, and since that's where most of my positions have been over the past 14 years, I've been laid off five times. I consider myself to be an authority on the subject simply from personal experience, and with the current state of the economy, it's very possible that you could come face-to-face with a layoff situation as well.
The first thing to understand is that being laid off is not a personal reflection on you. Layoffs are a reflection of the economy - whether globally, nationally, or just within your own industry. Layoffs are one instance where it helps to think of yourself as just a number, since nothing you did or could do would have any effect on the situation. Layoffs have absolutely nothing to do with you personally.
It's normal to feel a bit of panic once the reality of being laid off sets in, and to feel like life is spinning out of control. The trick is to use that negative energy in a positive way to help motivate you, instead of sitting back and just feeling sorry for yourself. It's at this crucial crossroad where you must take control of the situation and be proactive instead of reactive, because if you let fear and depression control you, you won't get very far. Put a positive spin on a negative situation by looking at the layoff as an opportunity to reassess your career goals and maybe realign yourself to your true interests. Surviving a layoff is all about being positive and proactive, instead of playing the part of a victim.
These 15 tips will help you not only to survive a layoff, but to come out on the other side even better for having gone through it.
Apply for unemployment benefits immediately, even if you think you won't be unemployed for very long. Do it while everything is fresh in your mind so that once things settle down you can use your time to focus on your career plan instead of on busywork.
Reassess your monthly budget and make cuts wherever you can, especially frivolous spending such as eating out, unnecessary driving, magazines, cable extras, snack foods, etc.
Don't overreact and end up making rash decisions you'll regret later. Don't rush into a new job, or immediately put your house on the market, or make any large decisions without giving ample rational thought to it first. Remember to think, not react.
Take a career development course to learn how to write an effective cover letter, craft an effective résumé, practice your interviewing skills, learn your strengths and weaknesses, take personality tests, and develop a career plan. If the company that laid you off offers this benefit as part of your severance package, make sure to take advantage of it. (A great example of this service can be found at http://www.right.com)
If your industry was hit particularly hard, think of other industries you can target for your job-search where your skills can be used. Skills in managing people and/or technologies, motivating, speaking, writing, record-keeping, and computer skills are examples of skills that can be used across many various industries. (For more on transferable skills, check out http://careerplanning.about.com/od/careerchoicechan/a/transferable.htm)
Focus on networking instead of cold-calling or blindly mailing out your résumé. At least 70% of all jobs are acquired through some form of networking and referrals. Talk to people at church, your neighbors, other parents picking their kids up at school, those you meet at the grocery store or at your kid's little league game, or other patients waiting in the doctor's office. Every person you meet is a potential contact who could lead you to your next job. Keep notes with names, dates and basic information so you know who's calling if they contact you. Join local interest groups as another way to network in your area.
Prepare your own business cards on basic business-card stock from the office supply store. Provide your contact information and desired job title (i.e. "Project Manager," "C# Developer," "Web Designer," "Mortgage Consultant") and have an ample supply at-the-ready (in your car, in your wallet or purse, etc.) because you never know when you may need one.
Keep your sense of humor so that you don't allow yourself to get too far down. Trying to see the lighter side of a bad situation can help to alleviate the stress. Read the comics section of the newspaper, watch a silly cartoon with your kids, or borrow a funny book from a friend. Try to find something to laugh about every day.
Don't be too proud to ask for help from your family, friends, church, neighbors, etc. Most people are happy to help. If you need someone to watch the kids while you make some calls, or if you need a ride to an interview, or if you just need someone to talk to - don't hesitate to ask for what you need.
Pamper yourself for stress-reduction. Take a warm bubble bath, read a trashy novel, get a massage, take up walking with a neighbor, or borrow a movie you've always wanted to see from a friend. Give yourself permission to have down-time and to relax.
By following these tips you will eventually come to realize that being laid off is not the end of the world and you will come out all the stronger for having survived it. So pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and get back on the ground, running!
Labels:
career,
career builder,
jobs,
reduction in force,
RIF
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Wall Street Layoffs: What you Need to Know - Lyneka Little
Lyneka Little writes for MAINSTREET powered by THESTREET.COM.
'Tis the season for layoffs, but not all layoffs are created equal, and on Wall Street sometimes the way you are let go can be a violation of regulation rules.
Consider this hypothetical: “A trader or investment banker at a securities firm who has increased revenue and worked hard the entire year but is laid off prior to the date on which bonuses are paid has a strong claim,” says Michael Deutsch, co-founder of Singer Deutsch LLP, a Securities law firm. “A proprietary trader, for example, may have generated a substantial return on his or her book, yet the firm reaps all the profits without fairly compensating the employee.”
Sound shady to you? Some are interpreting massive financial service layoffs in the same way. As a result, individuals are seeking counsel to learn their rights.
In October, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, the agency that oversees securities firms, saw an increase of all arbitration filings by nearly 50% compared to the same period last year.
“We have seen a tremendous influx of calls because firms have used this as an opportunity to avoid paying bonuses and there is no question in our minds that there are going to be increased claims,” says Deutsch.
Are you wondering about proper compensation due to a layoff in the securities industry? Here's what you need to know:
1. If you are a representative or a broker in the securities industry and you think you believe you have been laid off illegally, you may seek resolution using FINRA, says Brendan Intindola, spokesperson for FINRA.
2. If you’re a customer and you have a broker, and you believe think your broker has done something wrong, you can address the issue by filing an arbitration claim at FINRA, says Intindola.
To file a claim for Breach of Conduct or numerous other reasons, FINRA offers an arbitration online filing system. (The typical claim may take 6 to 13 months for resolution.)
Retaining a lawyer is not necessary, but you might consider an attorney to “ascertain what your rights are to know if it would be productive to file a claim and to learn what your causes of action are,” says Deutsch.
'Tis the season for layoffs, but not all layoffs are created equal, and on Wall Street sometimes the way you are let go can be a violation of regulation rules.
Consider this hypothetical: “A trader or investment banker at a securities firm who has increased revenue and worked hard the entire year but is laid off prior to the date on which bonuses are paid has a strong claim,” says Michael Deutsch, co-founder of Singer Deutsch LLP, a Securities law firm. “A proprietary trader, for example, may have generated a substantial return on his or her book, yet the firm reaps all the profits without fairly compensating the employee.”
Sound shady to you? Some are interpreting massive financial service layoffs in the same way. As a result, individuals are seeking counsel to learn their rights.
In October, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, the agency that oversees securities firms, saw an increase of all arbitration filings by nearly 50% compared to the same period last year.
“We have seen a tremendous influx of calls because firms have used this as an opportunity to avoid paying bonuses and there is no question in our minds that there are going to be increased claims,” says Deutsch.
Are you wondering about proper compensation due to a layoff in the securities industry? Here's what you need to know:
1. If you are a representative or a broker in the securities industry and you think you believe you have been laid off illegally, you may seek resolution using FINRA, says Brendan Intindola, spokesperson for FINRA.
2. If you’re a customer and you have a broker, and you believe think your broker has done something wrong, you can address the issue by filing an arbitration claim at FINRA, says Intindola.
To file a claim for Breach of Conduct or numerous other reasons, FINRA offers an arbitration online filing system. (The typical claim may take 6 to 13 months for resolution.)
Retaining a lawyer is not necessary, but you might consider an attorney to “ascertain what your rights are to know if it would be productive to file a claim and to learn what your causes of action are,” says Deutsch.
Three Tips to Benefit from the Wall Street Collapse - Joe Turner
As a recruiter, Joe Turner has spent the past 15 years finding and placing top candidates in some of the best jobs of their careers. Author of Job Search Secrets Unlocked and Paycheck 911, Joe has interviewed on radio talk shows and offers free insider job search secrets at: www.jobchangesecrets.com .
The current economic meltdown is just the tip of a much larger iceberg that will have far reaching economic implications for all of us here in the U.S. Tens of thousands of layoffs in and beyond the financial industry will only be the start of more sober times as companies across the country will be forced to rethink their future hiring plans.
One fact seems certain. All of these circumstances will combine to have huge ramifications for job seekers. The failing economy and a constantly rising unemployment rate will require individuals to take a fresh approach to their job search.
Referencing the most recent economic crisis, Neil McNulty, Principal Recruiter, McNulty Management Group states, "The game has changed, but the rules remain the same: now, more than ever, job seekers need to change their mindset from looking for ‘openings’ to looking for ‘opportunities’... and opportunities are borne out of crisis and chaos, and exist even in the worst economy."
This means that you, as a job seeker, must look beyond job postings and move into marketing yourself to the managers of the companies and organizations who are experiencing problems that you can solve.
1) Change Your Mindset
Move away from being a passive job seeker to an active problem-solver. Don’t just rely on the internet to find job openings. Scour the marketplace to find the hidden jobs that aren’t advertised. Most jobs are not posted or advertised. The best jobs are often found through networking, word-of-mouth and informational interviews.
2) Stop Thinking of Yourself as Just an Assortment of Job Skills.
See yourself as a product to package and market, and then create your own marketing campaign to find your desired job. This includes having a state-of-the-art resume, and sharpening your interviewing skills.
3) Sell ROI
View yourself in terms of Return on Investment for an employer. See yourself as a mini-profit and loss center. Be prepared to demonstrate ways you have helped to positively impact the bottom line of your past or current employer. This means demonstrating ways you've helped make money or save money for an employer or clients. As employees, we all touch money. Some of us may be closer to it than others. Regardless, we must find ways to prove this in short "sound bites" when given the opportunity.
Remember, it’s not about you, but about the employer. All communication with a prospective employer must answer the question, “What’s in it for me?”
The road ahead will be littered with casualties, no mistake about that. We could sit by and whine about the circumstances. We could wait for the government to initiate a "bailout" package that might somehow rescue the unemployed. Or, we could take charge of our own lives and power ourselves forward regardless of the hysteria of others. Joseph P. Kennedy said many years ago, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going”. That statement is just as true today as it was then. We all share this rocky, tough economy in common, whether employed or not. We can respond as victims of the economy or we can get tough and get going.
The current economic meltdown is just the tip of a much larger iceberg that will have far reaching economic implications for all of us here in the U.S. Tens of thousands of layoffs in and beyond the financial industry will only be the start of more sober times as companies across the country will be forced to rethink their future hiring plans.
One fact seems certain. All of these circumstances will combine to have huge ramifications for job seekers. The failing economy and a constantly rising unemployment rate will require individuals to take a fresh approach to their job search.
Referencing the most recent economic crisis, Neil McNulty, Principal Recruiter, McNulty Management Group states, "The game has changed, but the rules remain the same: now, more than ever, job seekers need to change their mindset from looking for ‘openings’ to looking for ‘opportunities’... and opportunities are borne out of crisis and chaos, and exist even in the worst economy."
This means that you, as a job seeker, must look beyond job postings and move into marketing yourself to the managers of the companies and organizations who are experiencing problems that you can solve.
1) Change Your Mindset
Move away from being a passive job seeker to an active problem-solver. Don’t just rely on the internet to find job openings. Scour the marketplace to find the hidden jobs that aren’t advertised. Most jobs are not posted or advertised. The best jobs are often found through networking, word-of-mouth and informational interviews.
2) Stop Thinking of Yourself as Just an Assortment of Job Skills.
See yourself as a product to package and market, and then create your own marketing campaign to find your desired job. This includes having a state-of-the-art resume, and sharpening your interviewing skills.
3) Sell ROI
View yourself in terms of Return on Investment for an employer. See yourself as a mini-profit and loss center. Be prepared to demonstrate ways you have helped to positively impact the bottom line of your past or current employer. This means demonstrating ways you've helped make money or save money for an employer or clients. As employees, we all touch money. Some of us may be closer to it than others. Regardless, we must find ways to prove this in short "sound bites" when given the opportunity.
Remember, it’s not about you, but about the employer. All communication with a prospective employer must answer the question, “What’s in it for me?”
The road ahead will be littered with casualties, no mistake about that. We could sit by and whine about the circumstances. We could wait for the government to initiate a "bailout" package that might somehow rescue the unemployed. Or, we could take charge of our own lives and power ourselves forward regardless of the hysteria of others. Joseph P. Kennedy said many years ago, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going”. That statement is just as true today as it was then. We all share this rocky, tough economy in common, whether employed or not. We can respond as victims of the economy or we can get tough and get going.
Labels:
career,
career builder,
jobs,
reduction in force,
RIF
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Five Ways to Make Starting a New Career Less Scary - Leslie Godwin
Leslie Godwin, MFCC, is a Career & Life-Transition Coach specializing in helping people put their families, values, and principles first when making career and life choices. Leslie is the author of, "From Burned Out to Fired Up: A Woman's Guide to Rekindling the Passion and Meaning in Work and Life" published by Health Communications. For more information, go to www.LeslieGodwin.com.
If you believe most of the current magazines that profile successful entrepreneurs or others with high-profile careers, then you probably think that the best way to change careers is to close your eyes, max out your credit cards, and leap off the cliff. While that makes for a great story, the truth is quite different, and less risky. Most people that have changed careers successfully have done one or more of the following.
Here are five ways to make starting your new career less scary and more rewarding:
1. Planning And Clarity Make The Unknown Known...And Less Scary
What type of career change will meet your needs? Slow down and explore as many options as possible. Marci Taub, co-author of Work Smart: 250 Smart Moves Your Boss Already Knows, notes that it is important to "clarify whether you need a full career change, a career shift, or an industry or sector change before you leap."
The more specific your plans, the less scary they are. Find out as much as you can about your prospective career. This could include: the number of working hours typical of that career, any specialized training you'll need, and if there's a lot of burnout in that field. Another reason to plan ahead: the higher the risk of your new venture, the more planning you need to do to increase your chances for success.
2. Talk To Others Who Have Changed Careers Lately
If you are working in a secure job for a large company, you are probably surrounded by others working in secure jobs for a large company. These are not the people who can give you advice about changing careers. Even worse is hanging around with disgruntled types because they support your ideas about leaving. Their unhappiness can be contagious. The fact that they are miserable but not willing to do anything about it but complain confirms that they have nothing to teach you.
On the other hand, if you talk to people who have just made the change to a career that is meaningful and satisfying to them, they have a wealth of information that will be useful and motivating. Find out what their concerns were, and how they've handled them. What would they do differently? What do they recommend for your situation? Talk to enough people that you get an overview of what it takes to make it in a new career.
3. Talk To Others Who Have Long-Since Changed Careers
Temper the enthusiasm and optimism of those who have just made the change, with the wisdom and depth of experience of those who see the big picture. When you talk to people who made a significant career change quite a while ago, you learn what works over the long-run, and what to do when the excitement wears off. Do they still like what they do? What challenges took them by surprise, and how did they respond? How much of their success was due to their own efforts as opposed to being in the right place at the right time? Keep asking different people until you notice patterns of how the process unfolds for most people.
4. Soul-Searching Prevents Making The Same Mistakes In New Career
Don't just use your intellect; use your intuition. To soul-search means to contemplate your situation based on what your SOUL cares about. That might include:
-your quality of life
-the meaning behind what you do
-spending time on what you care about
-understanding that your life has a deeper purpose than just making a living
-Depending on your personality, you may need to do more or less soul-searching.
If you tend to act impulsively, and seem to continually end up in similar problematic situations, you need to do MORE. Therapy or career coaching can help you better understand why you want to make a change, and can help you ensure that you aren¹t just running from one bad situation to one that¹s even worse.
But if you tend to agonize over every decision, large or small, and would much prefer to think through every detail until the opportunity is no longer available, you may need to do LESS contemplating and more doing.
True insight and curiosity about what makes you tick doesn't lead to endless procrastination. In fact, the better you know yourself, the less likely it is that you'll allow yourself to be tripped up with insecurities or needing to prove yourself to others.
5. Put Your Career In A Larger Context
If you define yourself by your job title, salary level, or other aspect of your career, making a change will feel like changing your identity. However, if you see your place in the universe defined by more than your job, you'll have a sense of simply taking a new step down your unique path.
How can you make your career change less scary? There are lots of ways. These are just a few. I hope they get you started on your ongoing journey. Let that journey include understanding yourself better all the time and making career choices that enhance ALL aspects of your life.
If you believe most of the current magazines that profile successful entrepreneurs or others with high-profile careers, then you probably think that the best way to change careers is to close your eyes, max out your credit cards, and leap off the cliff. While that makes for a great story, the truth is quite different, and less risky. Most people that have changed careers successfully have done one or more of the following.
Here are five ways to make starting your new career less scary and more rewarding:
1. Planning And Clarity Make The Unknown Known...And Less Scary
What type of career change will meet your needs? Slow down and explore as many options as possible. Marci Taub, co-author of Work Smart: 250 Smart Moves Your Boss Already Knows, notes that it is important to "clarify whether you need a full career change, a career shift, or an industry or sector change before you leap."
The more specific your plans, the less scary they are. Find out as much as you can about your prospective career. This could include: the number of working hours typical of that career, any specialized training you'll need, and if there's a lot of burnout in that field. Another reason to plan ahead: the higher the risk of your new venture, the more planning you need to do to increase your chances for success.
2. Talk To Others Who Have Changed Careers Lately
If you are working in a secure job for a large company, you are probably surrounded by others working in secure jobs for a large company. These are not the people who can give you advice about changing careers. Even worse is hanging around with disgruntled types because they support your ideas about leaving. Their unhappiness can be contagious. The fact that they are miserable but not willing to do anything about it but complain confirms that they have nothing to teach you.
On the other hand, if you talk to people who have just made the change to a career that is meaningful and satisfying to them, they have a wealth of information that will be useful and motivating. Find out what their concerns were, and how they've handled them. What would they do differently? What do they recommend for your situation? Talk to enough people that you get an overview of what it takes to make it in a new career.
3. Talk To Others Who Have Long-Since Changed Careers
Temper the enthusiasm and optimism of those who have just made the change, with the wisdom and depth of experience of those who see the big picture. When you talk to people who made a significant career change quite a while ago, you learn what works over the long-run, and what to do when the excitement wears off. Do they still like what they do? What challenges took them by surprise, and how did they respond? How much of their success was due to their own efforts as opposed to being in the right place at the right time? Keep asking different people until you notice patterns of how the process unfolds for most people.
4. Soul-Searching Prevents Making The Same Mistakes In New Career
Don't just use your intellect; use your intuition. To soul-search means to contemplate your situation based on what your SOUL cares about. That might include:
-your quality of life
-the meaning behind what you do
-spending time on what you care about
-understanding that your life has a deeper purpose than just making a living
-Depending on your personality, you may need to do more or less soul-searching.
If you tend to act impulsively, and seem to continually end up in similar problematic situations, you need to do MORE. Therapy or career coaching can help you better understand why you want to make a change, and can help you ensure that you aren¹t just running from one bad situation to one that¹s even worse.
But if you tend to agonize over every decision, large or small, and would much prefer to think through every detail until the opportunity is no longer available, you may need to do LESS contemplating and more doing.
True insight and curiosity about what makes you tick doesn't lead to endless procrastination. In fact, the better you know yourself, the less likely it is that you'll allow yourself to be tripped up with insecurities or needing to prove yourself to others.
5. Put Your Career In A Larger Context
If you define yourself by your job title, salary level, or other aspect of your career, making a change will feel like changing your identity. However, if you see your place in the universe defined by more than your job, you'll have a sense of simply taking a new step down your unique path.
How can you make your career change less scary? There are lots of ways. These are just a few. I hope they get you started on your ongoing journey. Let that journey include understanding yourself better all the time and making career choices that enhance ALL aspects of your life.
Labels:
career,
career builder,
jobs,
reduction in force,
RIF
Friday, December 5, 2008
Bad Choices Can Lead to Good Ones - Anonymous
Your career is a series of choices. Some are good and some are not so good. But either way, you are the person doing the choosing. At times it may feel like you have no choice, or someone else is making the choices for you, but the truth is you have more power over what you choose than you think you do.
What going on in your career? Frustration? Boredom? Exhaustion? Things we all deal with in today’s workplace. (It’s good to know that you are not alone.)
If your career is not where you want it to be, it’s up to you to do something about it. The old cliché, “Good things come to those who wait,” hurts more than it helps. It gets you off the hook because you believe things will happen on their own over time. Action is what gets results. Not waiting.
So what are you choosing? Are you choosing to work on making more money or quietly wishing a raise will come to you? Are you choosing to update your resume or letting being busy prevail? Are you actively choosing to discover what your true passion is or are you hoping the answer will magically appear? The choices you make today will determine whether you are happy or not tomorrow.
In order to go forward, sometimes you have to go back. Once you can accept where you have been, then you can make plans to move forward. Look at your career. Where have your choices led you?
Have Bad Choices Led To Regret?
Everyone has something in their career they wish they’d done differently. Maybe you misspoke in an interview or a meeting and you blew an opportunity. Maybe you could have negotiated a bigger salary but you did not. Maybe you ran into someone in your career who could have helped you move to greater heights but you failed to ask for help. Again, know that you are not alone. Bad choices are something we all share. It’s not what happens to you in your career that matter, but how you recover from it. Have you moved on, or are you replaying every moment over again in your mind? Replays are for sports, not for your career. Let it go so you can move on to something better.
Have Bad Choices Led To A Bad Attitude?
Are you fun to be around? Or, do people ignore you? What kind of vibe are you sending at work or on interviews? Believe you are hiding a bad attitude? Your belief is wrong. People can pick it up from a mile away. No one can hide unhappiness or anger. You may think that you have a right to be gloomy, but the person you are hurting the most is you. No one cares that you are upset. They do care that you are being difficult. Want to shake things up in your career and see real results? Become a more positive person. This one act alone can transform your career.
Have Bad Choices Led To Fear?
What are you afraid of? Afraid to ask for more money or resources? Afraid to speak up in meetings? Afraid to call people you know to see if they have a job opportunity for you? Afraid to go after your passion? Fear is normal. You wouldn’t be alive without it. But there is a difference between being afraid and letting fear paralyze you. Even though you are busy, you know yourself pretty well. You know when fear is getting in the way. The question is what you will do about it. Will you let fear win or not?
Start Making Good Choices.
Until you make better choices, your old choices will continue to haunt you. Start today by making one good choice. One choice will lead to two and so on. You have to start somewhere, so start where you are right now. Good choices made over time will lead you to a more fulfilling career.
So, what do you say? You only have one life to live, so it might as well be a life you love!
What going on in your career? Frustration? Boredom? Exhaustion? Things we all deal with in today’s workplace. (It’s good to know that you are not alone.)
If your career is not where you want it to be, it’s up to you to do something about it. The old cliché, “Good things come to those who wait,” hurts more than it helps. It gets you off the hook because you believe things will happen on their own over time. Action is what gets results. Not waiting.
So what are you choosing? Are you choosing to work on making more money or quietly wishing a raise will come to you? Are you choosing to update your resume or letting being busy prevail? Are you actively choosing to discover what your true passion is or are you hoping the answer will magically appear? The choices you make today will determine whether you are happy or not tomorrow.
In order to go forward, sometimes you have to go back. Once you can accept where you have been, then you can make plans to move forward. Look at your career. Where have your choices led you?
Have Bad Choices Led To Regret?
Everyone has something in their career they wish they’d done differently. Maybe you misspoke in an interview or a meeting and you blew an opportunity. Maybe you could have negotiated a bigger salary but you did not. Maybe you ran into someone in your career who could have helped you move to greater heights but you failed to ask for help. Again, know that you are not alone. Bad choices are something we all share. It’s not what happens to you in your career that matter, but how you recover from it. Have you moved on, or are you replaying every moment over again in your mind? Replays are for sports, not for your career. Let it go so you can move on to something better.
Have Bad Choices Led To A Bad Attitude?
Are you fun to be around? Or, do people ignore you? What kind of vibe are you sending at work or on interviews? Believe you are hiding a bad attitude? Your belief is wrong. People can pick it up from a mile away. No one can hide unhappiness or anger. You may think that you have a right to be gloomy, but the person you are hurting the most is you. No one cares that you are upset. They do care that you are being difficult. Want to shake things up in your career and see real results? Become a more positive person. This one act alone can transform your career.
Have Bad Choices Led To Fear?
What are you afraid of? Afraid to ask for more money or resources? Afraid to speak up in meetings? Afraid to call people you know to see if they have a job opportunity for you? Afraid to go after your passion? Fear is normal. You wouldn’t be alive without it. But there is a difference between being afraid and letting fear paralyze you. Even though you are busy, you know yourself pretty well. You know when fear is getting in the way. The question is what you will do about it. Will you let fear win or not?
Start Making Good Choices.
Until you make better choices, your old choices will continue to haunt you. Start today by making one good choice. One choice will lead to two and so on. You have to start somewhere, so start where you are right now. Good choices made over time will lead you to a more fulfilling career.
So, what do you say? You only have one life to live, so it might as well be a life you love!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
How to Handle the Job Offer You Can't Afford - Joann S. Lublin
Joann S. Lublin writes for the CAREER STRATEGIES section of the online version of the Wall Street Journal wsj.com.
Earlier this year, Mark Cummuta walked away from a chance to become the No. 2 executive of a Chicago technology consultancy -- for less than $100,000. As the sole breadwinner and father of triplets, Mr. Cummuta couldn't afford a nearly 20% cut in pay, compared with what he was earning as an independent management consultant.
He's still looking for a permanent position. "Every now and then, I hit myself and say, 'I should have taken that offer,'" concedes the consultant, who has helped several firms navigate difficult times since 2003.
Unfortunately, Mr. Cummuta is hardly unique. More battered businesses are giving new hires less money than they made in their last job. "I am seeing that a lot more," says April M. Williams, a career coach in Algonquin, Ill. Puny amounts flabbergast some of her clients.
"As the downturn deepens, an increasing number of job seekers will find themselves getting lower-paying offers," says Mark Royal, a senior consultant at Hay Group. "We are on the cusp of a trend."
But excess eagerness to toil for fewer bucks sends the wrong signal. Such applicants often "are really desperate," says Niki Leondakis, chief operating officer at Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, a boutique chain in San Francisco.
Rather than immediately reject or accept a lowball deal, you should mount a careful counterattack, experts recommend. You could improve your chances of winning a satisfactory compromise, with tradeoffs ranging from a faster pay review to extra perquisites.
Arm yourself with data about the going rate for your position by trolling Web sites such as salary.com, indeed.com/salary, salaryexpert.com and glassdoor.com. You'll see whether a concern "has poor information about the external market" and rewards staffers below prevailing levels, says Robin Pinkley, a professor at Southern Methodist University's business school and author of books about pay negotiations.
As part of your homework, you must grasp a potential employer's problems so you can promote yourself as a problem solver worth more than the proposed skimpy pay. "To negotiate in tough times, you have to be able to create a vision," says Jim Camp, an author and president of Camp Group, a negotiation-consulting firm in Dublin, Ohio.
A big New York law firm recently agreed to hire an Ohio lawyer for $140 an hour, $40 an hour less than he was earning. The firm blamed tough times. But the attorney knew he could provide important client referrals, recalls Mr. Camp, who coached him. "What number would I be paid if I brought a million-dollar client?" the candidate asked firm officials.
"If you're a rainmaker, the numbers change," they replied, according to Mr. Camp. After further interviews, the firm raised his starting pay to $240 an hour. He began last summer.
A West Coast executive took this tactic a step further. Keen to enter senior management several years ago, she hoped to accept a vice presidency at a midsize manufacturer -- and keep making over $300,000 a year. But the concern offered less than $200,000, the same cash compensation it gave other VPs.
The woman prepared a Power Point presentation for the chief executive, highlighting accomplishments he didn't know about and describing ways she might bolster customer satisfaction. She says she also sold him on a quarterly bonus plan for herself, linked to measurable milestones needed for the manufacturer's long-term growth.
The CEO enlarged her package by nearly $25,000. And she racked up bonuses fast enough that she was paid nearly $300,000 within a year. "It was a win-win for the company," she notes.
Some job hunters weighing lower offers bargain for alternative rewards, such as flexible hours, extra vacation, special training or a gym membership. Not everyone can long survive on a shrunken paycheck, however.
PeaceKeeper Cause-Metrics, a small cosmetics distributor, offered Stephanie S. Hayano a $50,000 salary to be its chief operating officer starting last January. She previously earned $300,000 a year running Natural Health Trends Corp. The puny pay wouldn't have even covered mortgages for her three residences. "Unless I was prepared to totally change my lifestyle, $50,000 was not in the cards," Ms. Hayano says.
She assumed the COO title at the New York firm, but gets compensated as a part-time consultant and retains other consulting gigs.
It's a good idea to assess the long-term career impact of toiling for less. Younger individuals, for instance, might get a valuable opportunity to build their résumés.
That proved true for Sanjay Gupta. In 1994, the 26-year-old senior marketing analyst accepted 10% lower pay when he transferred to a database marketing job at his employer, FedEx Corp. He and his wife were forced to dine out less often. However, Mr. Gupta says that he gained experience "with every facet of marketing," a critical skill for becoming a chief marketing officer of a big business some day. He achieved that title last March, when GMAC Financial Services named him CMO.
Earlier this year, Mark Cummuta walked away from a chance to become the No. 2 executive of a Chicago technology consultancy -- for less than $100,000. As the sole breadwinner and father of triplets, Mr. Cummuta couldn't afford a nearly 20% cut in pay, compared with what he was earning as an independent management consultant.
He's still looking for a permanent position. "Every now and then, I hit myself and say, 'I should have taken that offer,'" concedes the consultant, who has helped several firms navigate difficult times since 2003.
Unfortunately, Mr. Cummuta is hardly unique. More battered businesses are giving new hires less money than they made in their last job. "I am seeing that a lot more," says April M. Williams, a career coach in Algonquin, Ill. Puny amounts flabbergast some of her clients.
"As the downturn deepens, an increasing number of job seekers will find themselves getting lower-paying offers," says Mark Royal, a senior consultant at Hay Group. "We are on the cusp of a trend."
But excess eagerness to toil for fewer bucks sends the wrong signal. Such applicants often "are really desperate," says Niki Leondakis, chief operating officer at Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, a boutique chain in San Francisco.
Rather than immediately reject or accept a lowball deal, you should mount a careful counterattack, experts recommend. You could improve your chances of winning a satisfactory compromise, with tradeoffs ranging from a faster pay review to extra perquisites.
Arm yourself with data about the going rate for your position by trolling Web sites such as salary.com, indeed.com/salary, salaryexpert.com and glassdoor.com. You'll see whether a concern "has poor information about the external market" and rewards staffers below prevailing levels, says Robin Pinkley, a professor at Southern Methodist University's business school and author of books about pay negotiations.
As part of your homework, you must grasp a potential employer's problems so you can promote yourself as a problem solver worth more than the proposed skimpy pay. "To negotiate in tough times, you have to be able to create a vision," says Jim Camp, an author and president of Camp Group, a negotiation-consulting firm in Dublin, Ohio.
A big New York law firm recently agreed to hire an Ohio lawyer for $140 an hour, $40 an hour less than he was earning. The firm blamed tough times. But the attorney knew he could provide important client referrals, recalls Mr. Camp, who coached him. "What number would I be paid if I brought a million-dollar client?" the candidate asked firm officials.
"If you're a rainmaker, the numbers change," they replied, according to Mr. Camp. After further interviews, the firm raised his starting pay to $240 an hour. He began last summer.
A West Coast executive took this tactic a step further. Keen to enter senior management several years ago, she hoped to accept a vice presidency at a midsize manufacturer -- and keep making over $300,000 a year. But the concern offered less than $200,000, the same cash compensation it gave other VPs.
The woman prepared a Power Point presentation for the chief executive, highlighting accomplishments he didn't know about and describing ways she might bolster customer satisfaction. She says she also sold him on a quarterly bonus plan for herself, linked to measurable milestones needed for the manufacturer's long-term growth.
The CEO enlarged her package by nearly $25,000. And she racked up bonuses fast enough that she was paid nearly $300,000 within a year. "It was a win-win for the company," she notes.
Some job hunters weighing lower offers bargain for alternative rewards, such as flexible hours, extra vacation, special training or a gym membership. Not everyone can long survive on a shrunken paycheck, however.
PeaceKeeper Cause-Metrics, a small cosmetics distributor, offered Stephanie S. Hayano a $50,000 salary to be its chief operating officer starting last January. She previously earned $300,000 a year running Natural Health Trends Corp. The puny pay wouldn't have even covered mortgages for her three residences. "Unless I was prepared to totally change my lifestyle, $50,000 was not in the cards," Ms. Hayano says.
She assumed the COO title at the New York firm, but gets compensated as a part-time consultant and retains other consulting gigs.
It's a good idea to assess the long-term career impact of toiling for less. Younger individuals, for instance, might get a valuable opportunity to build their résumés.
That proved true for Sanjay Gupta. In 1994, the 26-year-old senior marketing analyst accepted 10% lower pay when he transferred to a database marketing job at his employer, FedEx Corp. He and his wife were forced to dine out less often. However, Mr. Gupta says that he gained experience "with every facet of marketing," a critical skill for becoming a chief marketing officer of a big business some day. He achieved that title last March, when GMAC Financial Services named him CMO.
Labels:
career,
career builder,
jobs,
reduction in force,
RIF
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
The Stress of Unemployment: Managing the Emotional Roller Coaster - Nancy Collamer
Nancy Collamer M.S. is a career counselor and founder of Jobsandmoms.com, a website for professional-level women who are looking for flexible jobs, work-at-home opportunities and innovative work/life resources.
She is the Author of the book, "The Layoff Survival Guide."
It's not so much that we're afraid of change or so in love with the old ways, but it's that place in between that we fear . . . It's like being between trapezes. It's Linus when his blanket is in the dryer. There's nothing to hold on to.-- Marilyn Ferguson
This book is a “how-to” guide focused on practical steps to take to better manage the transition from pink-slip to paycheck. Consequently until now, I’ve focused on the more tangible aspects of managing your unemployment. But at this juncture, I would be remiss, if I were to go any further without discussing the emotional impact of being unemployed.
Much has been written on this topic and some of it is quite good. But I can tell you from having been through this myself; you don’t need a book to tell you being unemployed is lousy. Even under the best of circumstances; when you’ve got ample savings, decent job prospects, and a healthy severance package, there’s no denying the unemployment blues. I’ve read those articles telling you to look at this time as “a gift”, an “opportunity to explore untapped horizons” and a “welcome retreat from the rat race.” While all of that may be true; when you’ve got a family to feed, a mortgage to pay and no good job prospects in sight, it can be mighty hard to look at this as a “golden” opportunity to feed your soul.
Losing your job is a life-changing event, a major transition characterized by many of the same stages that occur when there is a death in the family. If you speak to people who have been through this, they will tell you there are some predictable stages of mourning during job loss, similar to the grieving process:
Shock and denial: Even if the news of your job loss was expected, you may have experienced a feeling of shock or confusion when you heard the words coming out of your boss’s mouth. Don’t expect the shock to subside immediately - once you’ve processed the news on a conscious level, the shock waves may continue to reverberate for a while.
Anger: You may get angry with yourself, your employer and even your family. It’s not unusual for people to react with feelings of anger; voicing their frustration with comments like, “I can’t believe they could do this to me” or “How could I be so stupid to allow myself to be in this situation?”
Bargaining: Don’t be surprised if you find yourself thinking, “Maybe if I offer to take a pay cut or propose working part-time or… they’ll consider taking me back.” Over time this wishful thinking form of bargaining will be replaced by a more realistic action-based plan.
Depression: Particularly if your job search takes longer than expected, depression may set in. Depression clouds your thinking, saps your energy and undermines the job search. While some periods of feeling depressed are normal, consistent depression may need to be treated by a professional.
Acceptance: With time, acceptance of the situation as it is, as opposed to what you would like it to be, will begin to take hold. The "acceptance" stage is the best place to be when starting a job search, but you might not have the luxury of waiting until this point to begin your search.
No two people work through grief in the same way or at the same pace. As you cycle through the grief process and get deeper into the job search, expect to have good days and bad days. You may have moments of total panic interspersed with moments of quiet acceptance, feelings of helplessness and thoughts of “Is this ever going to end?,” followed by days when it looks like everything is going to fall right into place.
Unemployment is a bumpy, unpredictable emotional roller-coaster ride. And, while you can’t change the unpredictable nature of the ride, there are steps you can take to better manage your reaction to the peaks and valleys you’ll inevitably experience.
Ways to Manage Fear and Depression
Don’t compare yourself to others: The impact of job loss varies from person to person. It’s likely that a single 25 year-old who lives at home and is thinking about going back to graduate school will react to his/her job loss with a different intensity than a 40 year-old single mother who is laid off from the only job she has ever held. But, it’s also true that two people in similar situations may have two totally different reactions to their common loss. Each individual is unique and reacts with a wide range of emotions and behaviors; there is no one right way to handle this transition.
Become part of a support group: As wonderful as family and friends can be, many people find that joining a support group of peers is the most valuable support of all. Interacting with a group of people, who are in your situation and can fully understand what you’re going through, can be an invaluable aid in helping you maintain perspective and a sense of humor during your search.
Be honest about your emotions: Admitting your anger, fear, and frustrations to your support group is the first step toward managing your emotions instead of letting them control you.
Name and Claim the Enemy: Rather than walking around with a vague but continual sense of anxiety, try to figure out what specific things worry you most. By facing what you actually fear (i.e., financial instability, concerns that you’ll never find a comparable position) you can see how realistic your fears are and begin to work on a plan for addressing those issues.
Recognize that Luck Plays a Role in this Process: While it’s hard not to wonder why your friend landed a job quickly while you’re still looking, the answer is that every person’s search proceeds at a unique pace. Luck, timing, market opportunities and a hundred other factors conspire together in mysterious ways. Remember the saying,
“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”
Avoid Negative People: A group of pessimistic nay-sayers will do nothing but reinforce your worst fears. Align yourself with friends and colleagues who think more of you than you think of yourself – their suggestions will inspire, empower, and encourage you to move on in the face of rejection. Sometimes though, even the best-intentioned people don’t know what to say and as a result usually end up saying the wrong thing. Try to remember their intentions are honorable, even if their actions are less than helpful.
Take Care of Yourself: Mom was right; it’s important to take care of yourself. Get enough sleep, exercise and eat well. Don’t allow yourself to mope around the house in pajamas all day – project an image that reinforces a positive outlook.
Focus on the Positive: While you can’t change events, you can change how you react to them. Instead of focusing on the negatives on your life, take note of the positive side of unemployment. Whether it’s the opportunity to spend more time with your children, having a chance to explore new career directions or simply being able to sleep past 6 a.m., there is undoubtedly something positive to recognize during this difficult transition.
Keep Busy: There is nothing more depressing than staring at an empty calendar. Schedule your job search activities (i.e., 10 a.m.– 11 a.m.: make cold calls, 2 p.m.-4 p.m.: work on revising resume, etc.) as you would normal business appointments. If you have blocks of unused time, look in the newspaper for listings of business related meetings, trade shows or seminars that you might be able to attend. Go to the library. Force yourself to get out of the house.
Volunteer: By helping others, you’ll help yourself feel more valued. Even if it’s only a few hours each month, the psychological boost of helping those less fortunate can be significant.
Seek professional help: If your sadness feels very profound and does not seem to improve, consider getting professional help. The cost of ignoring depression can be far greater than the cost of getting treatment. Consult your local mental health clinics, social services agencies or professional counselors for help for yourself and family members who are affected by your unemployment. Some assistance may be covered by your health insurance or, if you do not have insurance, counseling is often available on a "sliding scale" fee, based on income.
She is the Author of the book, "The Layoff Survival Guide."
It's not so much that we're afraid of change or so in love with the old ways, but it's that place in between that we fear . . . It's like being between trapezes. It's Linus when his blanket is in the dryer. There's nothing to hold on to.-- Marilyn Ferguson
This book is a “how-to” guide focused on practical steps to take to better manage the transition from pink-slip to paycheck. Consequently until now, I’ve focused on the more tangible aspects of managing your unemployment. But at this juncture, I would be remiss, if I were to go any further without discussing the emotional impact of being unemployed.
Much has been written on this topic and some of it is quite good. But I can tell you from having been through this myself; you don’t need a book to tell you being unemployed is lousy. Even under the best of circumstances; when you’ve got ample savings, decent job prospects, and a healthy severance package, there’s no denying the unemployment blues. I’ve read those articles telling you to look at this time as “a gift”, an “opportunity to explore untapped horizons” and a “welcome retreat from the rat race.” While all of that may be true; when you’ve got a family to feed, a mortgage to pay and no good job prospects in sight, it can be mighty hard to look at this as a “golden” opportunity to feed your soul.
Losing your job is a life-changing event, a major transition characterized by many of the same stages that occur when there is a death in the family. If you speak to people who have been through this, they will tell you there are some predictable stages of mourning during job loss, similar to the grieving process:
Shock and denial: Even if the news of your job loss was expected, you may have experienced a feeling of shock or confusion when you heard the words coming out of your boss’s mouth. Don’t expect the shock to subside immediately - once you’ve processed the news on a conscious level, the shock waves may continue to reverberate for a while.
Anger: You may get angry with yourself, your employer and even your family. It’s not unusual for people to react with feelings of anger; voicing their frustration with comments like, “I can’t believe they could do this to me” or “How could I be so stupid to allow myself to be in this situation?”
Bargaining: Don’t be surprised if you find yourself thinking, “Maybe if I offer to take a pay cut or propose working part-time or… they’ll consider taking me back.” Over time this wishful thinking form of bargaining will be replaced by a more realistic action-based plan.
Depression: Particularly if your job search takes longer than expected, depression may set in. Depression clouds your thinking, saps your energy and undermines the job search. While some periods of feeling depressed are normal, consistent depression may need to be treated by a professional.
Acceptance: With time, acceptance of the situation as it is, as opposed to what you would like it to be, will begin to take hold. The "acceptance" stage is the best place to be when starting a job search, but you might not have the luxury of waiting until this point to begin your search.
No two people work through grief in the same way or at the same pace. As you cycle through the grief process and get deeper into the job search, expect to have good days and bad days. You may have moments of total panic interspersed with moments of quiet acceptance, feelings of helplessness and thoughts of “Is this ever going to end?,” followed by days when it looks like everything is going to fall right into place.
Unemployment is a bumpy, unpredictable emotional roller-coaster ride. And, while you can’t change the unpredictable nature of the ride, there are steps you can take to better manage your reaction to the peaks and valleys you’ll inevitably experience.
Ways to Manage Fear and Depression
Don’t compare yourself to others: The impact of job loss varies from person to person. It’s likely that a single 25 year-old who lives at home and is thinking about going back to graduate school will react to his/her job loss with a different intensity than a 40 year-old single mother who is laid off from the only job she has ever held. But, it’s also true that two people in similar situations may have two totally different reactions to their common loss. Each individual is unique and reacts with a wide range of emotions and behaviors; there is no one right way to handle this transition.
Become part of a support group: As wonderful as family and friends can be, many people find that joining a support group of peers is the most valuable support of all. Interacting with a group of people, who are in your situation and can fully understand what you’re going through, can be an invaluable aid in helping you maintain perspective and a sense of humor during your search.
Be honest about your emotions: Admitting your anger, fear, and frustrations to your support group is the first step toward managing your emotions instead of letting them control you.
Name and Claim the Enemy: Rather than walking around with a vague but continual sense of anxiety, try to figure out what specific things worry you most. By facing what you actually fear (i.e., financial instability, concerns that you’ll never find a comparable position) you can see how realistic your fears are and begin to work on a plan for addressing those issues.
Recognize that Luck Plays a Role in this Process: While it’s hard not to wonder why your friend landed a job quickly while you’re still looking, the answer is that every person’s search proceeds at a unique pace. Luck, timing, market opportunities and a hundred other factors conspire together in mysterious ways. Remember the saying,
“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”
Avoid Negative People: A group of pessimistic nay-sayers will do nothing but reinforce your worst fears. Align yourself with friends and colleagues who think more of you than you think of yourself – their suggestions will inspire, empower, and encourage you to move on in the face of rejection. Sometimes though, even the best-intentioned people don’t know what to say and as a result usually end up saying the wrong thing. Try to remember their intentions are honorable, even if their actions are less than helpful.
Take Care of Yourself: Mom was right; it’s important to take care of yourself. Get enough sleep, exercise and eat well. Don’t allow yourself to mope around the house in pajamas all day – project an image that reinforces a positive outlook.
Focus on the Positive: While you can’t change events, you can change how you react to them. Instead of focusing on the negatives on your life, take note of the positive side of unemployment. Whether it’s the opportunity to spend more time with your children, having a chance to explore new career directions or simply being able to sleep past 6 a.m., there is undoubtedly something positive to recognize during this difficult transition.
Keep Busy: There is nothing more depressing than staring at an empty calendar. Schedule your job search activities (i.e., 10 a.m.– 11 a.m.: make cold calls, 2 p.m.-4 p.m.: work on revising resume, etc.) as you would normal business appointments. If you have blocks of unused time, look in the newspaper for listings of business related meetings, trade shows or seminars that you might be able to attend. Go to the library. Force yourself to get out of the house.
Volunteer: By helping others, you’ll help yourself feel more valued. Even if it’s only a few hours each month, the psychological boost of helping those less fortunate can be significant.
Seek professional help: If your sadness feels very profound and does not seem to improve, consider getting professional help. The cost of ignoring depression can be far greater than the cost of getting treatment. Consult your local mental health clinics, social services agencies or professional counselors for help for yourself and family members who are affected by your unemployment. Some assistance may be covered by your health insurance or, if you do not have insurance, counseling is often available on a "sliding scale" fee, based on income.
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Monday, December 1, 2008
The 10-Step Plan to a Career Change - Randall S. Hansen, Ph.D.
Dr. Randall S. Hansen is founder of Quintessential Careers, one of the oldest and most comprehensive career development sites on the Web, as well CEO of EmpoweringSites.com. He is also founder of MyCollegeSuccessStory.com and EnhanceMyVocabulary.com. He is publisher of Quintessential Careers Press, including the Quintessential Careers electronic newsletter, QuintZine. Dr. Hansen is also a published author, with several books, chapters in books, and hundreds of articles. He's often quoted in the media and conducts empowering workshops around the country. Finally, Dr. Hansen is also an educator, having taught at the college level for more than 15 years. Visit his personal Website or reach him by email at randall(at)quintcareers.com
How does it happen? Perhaps you just begin to lose interest. Perhaps you find something that interests you more. Perhaps your company is downsizing. These are just some of the numerous reasons people find themselves on that precipitous cliff looking back on their career just as the dirt begins to crumble beneath them.
Are you facing that career change plunge? Do you wish you were? Take it slowly and make sure what you really want to do is change careers. Then use this 10-step plan, and you will be on much more sure footing -- and on a path toward career change success. Finally, remember that career change is a natural life progression; most studies show that the average job-seeker will change careers (not jobs) several times over the course of his or her lifetime.
Step 1: Assessment of Likes and Dislikes. A lot of people change careers because they dislike their job, their boss, their company. So, identifying the dislikes is often the easier part of this step; however, you will not know what direction to change your career unless you examine your likes. What do you really like doing when you're at work, when you're at home - in your spare time. What excites you and energizes you? What's your passion? If you're really unsure, consider taking one of more of these career assessments. The key is spending some time rediscovering yourself -- and using your self-assessment to direct your new career search. (For more assistance in finding your new career, read Finding Your Career Passion.)
Step 2: Researching New Careers. Once you've discovered (or rediscovered) your passion, spend some time researching the types of careers that center around your passions. Don't worry if you're feeling a bit unsure or insecure -- it's a natural part of the career change process. How much research you do also partly depends on how much of a change you're making; for example, changing from a teacher to a corporate trainer versus switching from a nurse to a Web designer. You can find some great career information and a skills-matching service at O*NET Online from the U.S. Department of Labor and basic job information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook. Here are some other great Career Exploration Resources.
Step 3: Transferable Skills. Leverage some of your current skills and experiences to your new career. There are many skills (such as communications, leadership, planning, and others) that are transferable and applicable to what you want to do in your new career. You may be surprised to see that you already have a solid amount of experience for your new career. Read more: Strategic Portrayal of Transferable Skills is a Vital Job-search Technique.
Step 4: Training and Education. You may find it necessary to update your skills and broaden your knowledge. Take it slowly. If the skill you need to learn is one you could use in your current job, see if your current employer would be willing to pick up the tab. And start slowly. Take a course or two to ensure you really like the subject matter. If you are going for a new degree or certification, make sure you check the accreditation of the school, and get some information about placement successes. Check out these college planning resources.
Step 5: Networking. One of the real keys to successfully changing careers will be your networking abilities. People in your network may be able to give you job leads, offer you advice and information about a particular company or industry, and introduce you to others so that you can expand your network. Even if you don't think you already have a network, you probably do - consider colleagues, friends, and family members. You can broaden your network through joining professional organizations in your new field and contacting alumni from your college who are working in the field you want to enter. A key tool of networking is conducting informational interviews.
Step 6: Gaining Experience. Remember that, in a sense, you are starting your career again from square one. Obtaining a part-time job or volunteering in your new career field not only can solidify your decision, but give you much needed experience in your new career. You might also want to consider temping in your new field. Work weekends, nights, whatever it takes to gain the experience.
Step 7: Find a Mentor. Changing careers is a major life decision that can get overwhelming at times. Find a mentor who can help you through the rough patches. Your mentor may also be able to help you by taking advantage of his or her network. A mentor doesn't have to be a highly placed individual, though the more powerful the mentor, the more success you may have in using that power to your advantage.
Step 8: Changing In or Out. Some people change careers, but never change employers. Unfortunately, only the very progressive employers recognize that once happy employees can be happy and productive again - in a different capacity. It's more than likely that you will need to switch employers to change fields, but don't overlook your current employer. Remember not to start asking about a job switch until you are completely ready to do so.
Step 9: Job-Hunting Basics. If it's been a while since you've had to use your job-hunting tools and skills, now is the time for a refresher course.
Step 10: Be Flexible. You'll need to be flexible about nearly everything - from your employment status to relocation and salary. Set positive goals for yourself, but expect setbacks and change - and don't let these things get you down. Besides totally new careers, you might also consider a lateral move that could serve as a springboard for a bigger career change. You might also consider starting your own business or consulting as other avenues.
How does it happen? Perhaps you just begin to lose interest. Perhaps you find something that interests you more. Perhaps your company is downsizing. These are just some of the numerous reasons people find themselves on that precipitous cliff looking back on their career just as the dirt begins to crumble beneath them.
Are you facing that career change plunge? Do you wish you were? Take it slowly and make sure what you really want to do is change careers. Then use this 10-step plan, and you will be on much more sure footing -- and on a path toward career change success. Finally, remember that career change is a natural life progression; most studies show that the average job-seeker will change careers (not jobs) several times over the course of his or her lifetime.
Step 1: Assessment of Likes and Dislikes. A lot of people change careers because they dislike their job, their boss, their company. So, identifying the dislikes is often the easier part of this step; however, you will not know what direction to change your career unless you examine your likes. What do you really like doing when you're at work, when you're at home - in your spare time. What excites you and energizes you? What's your passion? If you're really unsure, consider taking one of more of these career assessments. The key is spending some time rediscovering yourself -- and using your self-assessment to direct your new career search. (For more assistance in finding your new career, read Finding Your Career Passion.)
Step 2: Researching New Careers. Once you've discovered (or rediscovered) your passion, spend some time researching the types of careers that center around your passions. Don't worry if you're feeling a bit unsure or insecure -- it's a natural part of the career change process. How much research you do also partly depends on how much of a change you're making; for example, changing from a teacher to a corporate trainer versus switching from a nurse to a Web designer. You can find some great career information and a skills-matching service at O*NET Online from the U.S. Department of Labor and basic job information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook. Here are some other great Career Exploration Resources.
Step 3: Transferable Skills. Leverage some of your current skills and experiences to your new career. There are many skills (such as communications, leadership, planning, and others) that are transferable and applicable to what you want to do in your new career. You may be surprised to see that you already have a solid amount of experience for your new career. Read more: Strategic Portrayal of Transferable Skills is a Vital Job-search Technique.
Step 4: Training and Education. You may find it necessary to update your skills and broaden your knowledge. Take it slowly. If the skill you need to learn is one you could use in your current job, see if your current employer would be willing to pick up the tab. And start slowly. Take a course or two to ensure you really like the subject matter. If you are going for a new degree or certification, make sure you check the accreditation of the school, and get some information about placement successes. Check out these college planning resources.
Step 5: Networking. One of the real keys to successfully changing careers will be your networking abilities. People in your network may be able to give you job leads, offer you advice and information about a particular company or industry, and introduce you to others so that you can expand your network. Even if you don't think you already have a network, you probably do - consider colleagues, friends, and family members. You can broaden your network through joining professional organizations in your new field and contacting alumni from your college who are working in the field you want to enter. A key tool of networking is conducting informational interviews.
Step 6: Gaining Experience. Remember that, in a sense, you are starting your career again from square one. Obtaining a part-time job or volunteering in your new career field not only can solidify your decision, but give you much needed experience in your new career. You might also want to consider temping in your new field. Work weekends, nights, whatever it takes to gain the experience.
Step 7: Find a Mentor. Changing careers is a major life decision that can get overwhelming at times. Find a mentor who can help you through the rough patches. Your mentor may also be able to help you by taking advantage of his or her network. A mentor doesn't have to be a highly placed individual, though the more powerful the mentor, the more success you may have in using that power to your advantage.
Step 8: Changing In or Out. Some people change careers, but never change employers. Unfortunately, only the very progressive employers recognize that once happy employees can be happy and productive again - in a different capacity. It's more than likely that you will need to switch employers to change fields, but don't overlook your current employer. Remember not to start asking about a job switch until you are completely ready to do so.
Step 9: Job-Hunting Basics. If it's been a while since you've had to use your job-hunting tools and skills, now is the time for a refresher course.
Step 10: Be Flexible. You'll need to be flexible about nearly everything - from your employment status to relocation and salary. Set positive goals for yourself, but expect setbacks and change - and don't let these things get you down. Besides totally new careers, you might also consider a lateral move that could serve as a springboard for a bigger career change. You might also consider starting your own business or consulting as other avenues.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
The Biggest Severance Package Mistakes - Kirk Nemer, J.D., SPHR
It does not matter whether your company calls it a “mass layoff”, “reductions-in-force”, “position elimination”, “downsizing”, “outsourcing”, “restructuring”, or some other euphemism for having your employment terminated with only two hours notice. You are informed that ‘today will be your last day of work and pack up your personal belongings in your office’. Yes, this is a stressful time and a sad chapter of your life, but having your employment terminated by your company could be the best for you and your career. The good news is that you are not alone as millions of people leave jobs for other ones every year.
The bad news is that millions of Americans who are offered a severance package, a retirement package, or a buyout offer from companies leave dollars, benefits, and many other incentives on the table as they walk out a company's doors. Most people don't realize they can negotiate for extended pay, more benefits and other terms of their employment departure. Employees also are too quick to sign the release agreements and leave their companies, focusing primarily on the severance pay and overlooking key areas of their packages.
Severance Pay Mistake #1
"There is no law which requires a severance pay". True, but then why do all companies pay a severance?
There is no law which states that severance pay must be provided, but all companies provide severance pay because the alternative is far more costly. Keep reading…
Severance Pay Mistake #2
"I'm an at-will employee so I cannot get severance pay".
At-will employment simply means that you are employed for an unstated duration, not a fixed period of time. It means you can leave at any time, and, your employer can terminate your employment at anytime, but a termination must be for legal reasons and a layoff must be performed legally! Being in an at-will employment state, or having an at-will employment contract, does not mean you cannot obtain severance-pay and a great severance package because you have leverage...
Severance Pay Mistake #3
"I have no leverage to get severance pay and I don't want to 'burn bridges' with my company".
Whether you were fired for poor performance, laid off, outsourced, or you have resigned, your employing company is fearful of negative publicity, complaints from former employees to board members, the possibility of being sued and the disruptive time and expense of litigation, and anyone speaking ill of the company. Companies want you to go away quietly and stop any possible controversy. All companies expect to negotiate severance packages in exchange for a Separation and Release Agreement, so you will be leaving not only on 'good terms', but also on your own terms!
Severance Pay Mistake #4
"My company is bankrupt or is being acquired, so no severance pay".
Most severance packages are provided when companies have no money, file bankruptcy, or simply cut costs through layoffs. In fact, severance packages provided during these unfortunate events are usually more generous.
Severance Pay Mistake #5
"My severance package is not negotiable and must be signed right away".
Human Resources and your boss will push you to take the check they've already cut and sign a release agreement right away. Don't do it as no employment situation is 'take it or leave it'. Tell them you need to think this situation over. They will not, and cannot, withdraw the severance offer-even if you ask for more! In fact, there are federal laws which require them to give you three weeks or up to 60 days to consider the agreement-more than enough time to negotiate a better severance package.
Severance Pay Mistake #6
"I can negotiate a severance package by myself".
People who do this always underestimate their own value, what their company has in the past provided to others, and, what their company will provide for them in a severance package. In addition, they leave out compensation, benefits and legal protections which can be negotiated and should be included in all severance packages.
Severance Pay Mistake #7
"I can review and understand the legal language within the Separation and Release of Claims Agreement my company wants me to sign in exchange for my severance package."
All Separation and Release Agreements state that you should consult with an attorney and have the attorney review the release of rights prior to signing it. This is for your protection, as you may not understand or even see the hidden restrictive covenants within the separation/release agreement and within your original employment agreement. An experienced Employment Attorney with a Human Resources background is best qualified to review a separation/release agreement, not your family or business contracts attorney.
Severance Pay Mistake #8
"I will hire an attorney to represent me".
Severance pay packages are created and implemented by your friendly Human Resources Department. But, if you hire an attorney to represent you to negotiate a severance deal, your friendly HR Department MUST, and will, turn you and your attorney over to its corporate Legal Department and its attorneys. You will have a tough time negotiating a severance as corporate attorneys always take a tough stance against opposing attorneys. Your matter will be legally escalated into a battle of attorneys. And, it's another story if you launch a lawsuit. The best severance deals come from HR departments.
To avoid these mistakes, you need both legal AND human resources experts on your side to assist you in getting the best severance package!
Get what you're worth,
Get what you've earned,
Get what you're legally entitled to receive,
Get Career Protection-Your advantage in employment negotiations.
About Career Protection®
A leading national provider of employment negotiations advice, the human resource and legal experts at Career Protection® have protected the careers of professionals throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. Career Protection has negotiated hundreds of employment agreements and severance pay packages. Career Protection’s HR and employment law experts have previously served as Vice Presidents of Human Resources, Directors of Human Resources, Corporate Counsel/Attorneys, or Recruiters for many Fortune 500 and Global Corporations. Click on the following for a FREE CONSULTATION: http://www.careerprotection.com/freelegaladvice.html
The bad news is that millions of Americans who are offered a severance package, a retirement package, or a buyout offer from companies leave dollars, benefits, and many other incentives on the table as they walk out a company's doors. Most people don't realize they can negotiate for extended pay, more benefits and other terms of their employment departure. Employees also are too quick to sign the release agreements and leave their companies, focusing primarily on the severance pay and overlooking key areas of their packages.
Severance Pay Mistake #1
"There is no law which requires a severance pay". True, but then why do all companies pay a severance?
There is no law which states that severance pay must be provided, but all companies provide severance pay because the alternative is far more costly. Keep reading…
Severance Pay Mistake #2
"I'm an at-will employee so I cannot get severance pay".
At-will employment simply means that you are employed for an unstated duration, not a fixed period of time. It means you can leave at any time, and, your employer can terminate your employment at anytime, but a termination must be for legal reasons and a layoff must be performed legally! Being in an at-will employment state, or having an at-will employment contract, does not mean you cannot obtain severance-pay and a great severance package because you have leverage...
Severance Pay Mistake #3
"I have no leverage to get severance pay and I don't want to 'burn bridges' with my company".
Whether you were fired for poor performance, laid off, outsourced, or you have resigned, your employing company is fearful of negative publicity, complaints from former employees to board members, the possibility of being sued and the disruptive time and expense of litigation, and anyone speaking ill of the company. Companies want you to go away quietly and stop any possible controversy. All companies expect to negotiate severance packages in exchange for a Separation and Release Agreement, so you will be leaving not only on 'good terms', but also on your own terms!
Severance Pay Mistake #4
"My company is bankrupt or is being acquired, so no severance pay".
Most severance packages are provided when companies have no money, file bankruptcy, or simply cut costs through layoffs. In fact, severance packages provided during these unfortunate events are usually more generous.
Severance Pay Mistake #5
"My severance package is not negotiable and must be signed right away".
Human Resources and your boss will push you to take the check they've already cut and sign a release agreement right away. Don't do it as no employment situation is 'take it or leave it'. Tell them you need to think this situation over. They will not, and cannot, withdraw the severance offer-even if you ask for more! In fact, there are federal laws which require them to give you three weeks or up to 60 days to consider the agreement-more than enough time to negotiate a better severance package.
Severance Pay Mistake #6
"I can negotiate a severance package by myself".
People who do this always underestimate their own value, what their company has in the past provided to others, and, what their company will provide for them in a severance package. In addition, they leave out compensation, benefits and legal protections which can be negotiated and should be included in all severance packages.
Severance Pay Mistake #7
"I can review and understand the legal language within the Separation and Release of Claims Agreement my company wants me to sign in exchange for my severance package."
All Separation and Release Agreements state that you should consult with an attorney and have the attorney review the release of rights prior to signing it. This is for your protection, as you may not understand or even see the hidden restrictive covenants within the separation/release agreement and within your original employment agreement. An experienced Employment Attorney with a Human Resources background is best qualified to review a separation/release agreement, not your family or business contracts attorney.
Severance Pay Mistake #8
"I will hire an attorney to represent me".
Severance pay packages are created and implemented by your friendly Human Resources Department. But, if you hire an attorney to represent you to negotiate a severance deal, your friendly HR Department MUST, and will, turn you and your attorney over to its corporate Legal Department and its attorneys. You will have a tough time negotiating a severance as corporate attorneys always take a tough stance against opposing attorneys. Your matter will be legally escalated into a battle of attorneys. And, it's another story if you launch a lawsuit. The best severance deals come from HR departments.
To avoid these mistakes, you need both legal AND human resources experts on your side to assist you in getting the best severance package!
Get what you're worth,
Get what you've earned,
Get what you're legally entitled to receive,
Get Career Protection-Your advantage in employment negotiations.
About Career Protection®
A leading national provider of employment negotiations advice, the human resource and legal experts at Career Protection® have protected the careers of professionals throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. Career Protection has negotiated hundreds of employment agreements and severance pay packages. Career Protection’s HR and employment law experts have previously served as Vice Presidents of Human Resources, Directors of Human Resources, Corporate Counsel/Attorneys, or Recruiters for many Fortune 500 and Global Corporations. Click on the following for a FREE CONSULTATION: http://www.careerprotection.com/freelegaladvice.html
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Saturday, November 29, 2008
Four Steps to Getting Started in a New Career - Tag and Catherine Goulet
Tag and Catherine Goulet are founders of FabJob.com, a publisher of career guides offering step-by-step advice for breaking into a variety of dream careers. Visit http://www.fabjob.com/ to find the guide to your dream career.
1. Learn about the career
Before you start looking for a job, learn as much as you can about the career, including the nature of the work, the skills needed and employment opportunities. Some ways to learn about a new career include: informational interviews with people working in the industry, attending meetings of professional associations, taking courses, finding information online and reading books about the career.
2. Develop the skills you need
Some skills, such as being well-organized and a good communicator, are helpful in many careers. Other skills are specific to the career. For example, an interior decorator needs a good eye for design while a business consultant needs to be able to identify and recommend solutions to business problems. You can develop skills through formal education. Perhaps the best way to develop your skills is by getting hands-on experience. (See step three.)
3. Get hands-on experience
Don't worry about the classic job-hunter's dilemma: To get a job you need experience, but to get experience you need a job. There are ways to get experience before you get the job. In fact, having experience will help you move into the position you want much more quickly at a higher pay rate.
Ways to get experience before you start applying for your dream job include: volunteering your services (to a department in your company, family and friends or a nonprofit organization); securing an internship; working a part-time, entry-level position; or starting your own part-time business.
4. Get hired for the job you want
If you want paid employment, this will involve preparing job-hunting materials (e.g. résumé, cover letter and portfolio), finding job openings and applying for jobs, going on interviews and negotiating salary when you're offered a job.
If you want your own business, you'll need to handle a number of details like choosing a business name, deciding whether to incorporate, obtaining inventory, finding a location, setting your prices, marketing your business and working with customers.
As you can see, there are many steps to getting started in a new career. The good news is that there are also many excellent resources available to help you get started.
1. Learn about the career
Before you start looking for a job, learn as much as you can about the career, including the nature of the work, the skills needed and employment opportunities. Some ways to learn about a new career include: informational interviews with people working in the industry, attending meetings of professional associations, taking courses, finding information online and reading books about the career.
2. Develop the skills you need
Some skills, such as being well-organized and a good communicator, are helpful in many careers. Other skills are specific to the career. For example, an interior decorator needs a good eye for design while a business consultant needs to be able to identify and recommend solutions to business problems. You can develop skills through formal education. Perhaps the best way to develop your skills is by getting hands-on experience. (See step three.)
3. Get hands-on experience
Don't worry about the classic job-hunter's dilemma: To get a job you need experience, but to get experience you need a job. There are ways to get experience before you get the job. In fact, having experience will help you move into the position you want much more quickly at a higher pay rate.
Ways to get experience before you start applying for your dream job include: volunteering your services (to a department in your company, family and friends or a nonprofit organization); securing an internship; working a part-time, entry-level position; or starting your own part-time business.
4. Get hired for the job you want
If you want paid employment, this will involve preparing job-hunting materials (e.g. résumé, cover letter and portfolio), finding job openings and applying for jobs, going on interviews and negotiating salary when you're offered a job.
If you want your own business, you'll need to handle a number of details like choosing a business name, deciding whether to incorporate, obtaining inventory, finding a location, setting your prices, marketing your business and working with customers.
As you can see, there are many steps to getting started in a new career. The good news is that there are also many excellent resources available to help you get started.
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layoff reduction in force,
RIF
Negotiating Your Way To A Great Deal - Richard Parker
Richard Parker is the author of How To Buy A Good Business At A Great Price. This best-selling program contains over 500 pages covering every stage of the business-buying process. Visit www.diomo.com.
When it comes to buying a business for sale, the most exciting and anxious moments can be experienced when the time arrives for you to enter into negotiations and make an offer. This part of the process completely handcuffs some individuals. There’s really no need for this to happen. Just like every other aspect to the buying process, your preparation will determine your level of success.
Keep in mind that this should be an enjoyable and educational part of buying a business. There is much to be learned during this phase. You must also realize that negotiations will evolve, and so if you approach it with an open-minded strategy instead of a “take it or leave it” philosophy, you will ultimately perform much better and produce a stronger deal.
Likewise, you should also know this is the stage when many deals come apart and never recover. Most of the time this happens because of the inability of one or both parties to truly understand what it takes to get the other side to see their point. Or, a failure to address the other party’s needs in a way that protects your specific interests at the same time.
Negotiating involves many independent personality issues. When dealing with a seller you must bear in mind that this is a very emotional time for them. They are looking to sell a business that has benefited from their hard work and sweat. It can be quite a personal adjustment for many and they do become irrational. They often feel as though they are losing a part of themselves. Be sensitive to their emotions but never at the expense of fabricating a good deal for you.
Your personality traits will come to light as well. Do your best to understand yourself. If for example, you’re not a patient individual, then you must train yourself to avoid giving in on a certain point simply because you’re tired of discussing it. You’re better off to move on to something else and come back to it with the seller.
Find Their "Pain", Soothe It and YOU Win!
Everybody has their "hot buttons" in a deal. These are the points that, in the mind of the buyer or seller, will make or break the deal. Once you identify them and can find a way to ease their concerns, you’ll win. It works all the time. As an example, if the seller wants to be certain that they walk away from the deal with a specific amount of money in their pocket after broker commissions, paying debt, etc., then the down payment amount of the deal is clearly their “hot button”. There are two ways to determine this: put in an offer and see where and how they counter, or ask them pointedly: “What’s more important to you, the down payment amount or the purchase price?”
The former method is usually more effective only because you can read into a variety of issues once you see the structure of a counter-offer. However, asking them directly is a very accurate way to measure this as well.
Getting back to our example, if it’s the down payment then it’s your turn to leverage the deal. Get as close as you can to their figure but, in exchange, get reduced interest rates on the balance of sale, extend the first payment to 60, 90 or 180 days after closing, negotiate the first year without interest, include the ability to payoff the note at anytime without penalty or to make periodic lump-sum payments towards the principal. There are tons that you can do once you know their pain.
An associate of mine who is an excellent negotiator always says that you should make, and get, concessions. In other words, whenever you agree to something, get something in return. It always works.
Preparation is The Key To Successful Negotiating
The average purchase agreement has over fifty individual clauses to be negotiated. There is far more involved than simply agreeing upon the price, down payment and terms. You will have to deal with the specific assets to be included, non-compete clauses, lease assignments, inspection period, adjustments, employee issues, liabilities, and on and on it goes.
Think about the specific point to be negotiated, what your position is and what your rebuttal will be to the seller’s comments. Play the “what if” game prior to sitting down to the table.
Play "what if"
Layout the various points, giving consideration to what the short-term and long-term impact will be of your decision. As an example, if you negotiate finance terms with the seller with one lump-sum payment down the road (i.e. a "balloon payment") you must also consider that the business MUST be able to make that payment at that time. What if there’s a cash crunch? What if you’d like to use the funds for something else at that time? What if…. you want to balance that with a straight-line finance program so that you’ll know what your obligations are every month and you can budget accordingly. Every situation is different, but again, consider the impact for today and down the road.
Structuring The Offer – and Remember, It’s YOUR Offer!
The offer will, in most cases, begin the ball rolling on a potential acquisition. At times, this is the most effective way to gain insight into the guts of the business. You may also be dismayed to learn that you may in fact have to make an offer without all of the data that you would like to have. As an example, you may only gain access to the true financials after an accepted offer has been put forth.
This is fine; no need to panic. You may be asking: “How can I formulate an offer without all of the information?” A good question in theory, but this is not always reality. Consider the fact that sellers may be exposed to a plethora of buyers and, not knowing which ones are serious, they may choose to hold back certain information.
The offer you present is YOUR offer. You should be comfortable tabling any terms that YOU are comfortable with. Whatever the seller is “asking” is simply a guideline. Remember, it’s an “asking price” not a purchase price. On the other hand, don’t be ridiculous. Table something that forms the basis of a future meaningful conversation. Your offer is, to a certain extent, a tool to prod the seller into playing his or her hand. To get them to demonstrate their pain; the areas that are fundamental to the deal - from their perspective.
There’s nothing wrong if they are insulted. They may or may not be, and you can always refine your offer as the case may be. Additionally, a buyer’s value of the business will certainly differ from a seller. That’s where negotiation comes into play. There are no hard rules for what the terms of your offer should be. Each situation is different. While it’s not advisable to make unlimited offers expecting one to catch on, you MUST make offers. Don’t over-engineer each potential acquisition. Once a business is of interest, you’ve done your homework, and you determine that you would, under the right conditions, like to buy the business, then get your offer in.
There are standard offer-to-purchase agreements available to use. Every business broker will have one and so too will most attorneys. The one thing that you want to be certain of is to retain the ability to rescind your offer at your “sole and absolute discretion” if you determine that the business is not what it was represented to be. However, you cannot have an unlimited time frame to do so after acceptance of the offer.
Generally, once an offer is accepted, you will have a certain number of days to perform the financial due diligence (often referred to as the “Inspection Period”). Allow yourself enough time to conduct this. The idea is that you must be able to retract the offer for any reason whatsoever right up to the last day of this due diligence period.
There are some offer contracts that stipulate that you cannot retract your offer and get a refund of your deposit if the financials are within 5% of what has been presented. This is a ridiculous clause. Never agree to it. You must be able to get any monies returned, for any reason, through the due diligence phase. Conversely, if you sign off after the due diligence and then decide thereafter you do not wish to go through with the purchase, the seller is, in all fairness, entitled to your deposit.
Lawyers and Accountants and Others - Everyone has an Opinion
Let’s understand one thing: lawyers cannot negotiate your deal for you. They can certainly help to ensure your protection from potential liabilities but when it comes to negotiating the actual business deal, they are definitely NOT the ones to act on your behalf. I am certain that any attorney reading this column will disagree. That’s OK. However, I have yet to meet more than a handful of attorneys who demonstrated any proficiency whatsoever in the actual art of negotiating the deal points of a small business acquisition. Most have never even bought a business themselves so even though they may have been involved in deals, it’s not the same perspective. You’ll want to hear their point, but their input should be reserved for the areas in which they are experts: the legal aspects of the deal.
As for accountants, they too have their role: the input from a financial point of view and tax consequences. Leverage their expertise as well, but do not let them influence the actual business deal.
The Last Word
Great negotiators are not born; they evolve. Your effectiveness will increase over time. Be creative. Be reasonable. Keep the end result of putting a good deal together in your mind. Don’t lose patience. Don’t be confrontational. If there is tough news to deliver, let your broker do it. After all, you will need the seller to provide you with training.
Learn from each experience. Understand that there will be set backs; work though each. You cannot win every point. It’s a give-and-take. Prioritize. Prepare. Win/win is not realistic. The objective is clear: you win, the seller is reasonably happy!
This article is © Copyright 2001-2008 by Richard Parker and may not be reproduced in any format whatsoever without prior written consent of the author.
The recommendations of reading, reference materials or links mentioned, are for general informational purposes only. The materials are intended as a public service and are not a substitute for obtaining professional advice from a qualified firm, person or corporation. Consult the appropriate professional advisor for complete and up-to-the-minute information. These materials do not constitute the rendering of any legal or professional services.
When it comes to buying a business for sale, the most exciting and anxious moments can be experienced when the time arrives for you to enter into negotiations and make an offer. This part of the process completely handcuffs some individuals. There’s really no need for this to happen. Just like every other aspect to the buying process, your preparation will determine your level of success.
Keep in mind that this should be an enjoyable and educational part of buying a business. There is much to be learned during this phase. You must also realize that negotiations will evolve, and so if you approach it with an open-minded strategy instead of a “take it or leave it” philosophy, you will ultimately perform much better and produce a stronger deal.
Likewise, you should also know this is the stage when many deals come apart and never recover. Most of the time this happens because of the inability of one or both parties to truly understand what it takes to get the other side to see their point. Or, a failure to address the other party’s needs in a way that protects your specific interests at the same time.
Negotiating involves many independent personality issues. When dealing with a seller you must bear in mind that this is a very emotional time for them. They are looking to sell a business that has benefited from their hard work and sweat. It can be quite a personal adjustment for many and they do become irrational. They often feel as though they are losing a part of themselves. Be sensitive to their emotions but never at the expense of fabricating a good deal for you.
Your personality traits will come to light as well. Do your best to understand yourself. If for example, you’re not a patient individual, then you must train yourself to avoid giving in on a certain point simply because you’re tired of discussing it. You’re better off to move on to something else and come back to it with the seller.
Find Their "Pain", Soothe It and YOU Win!
Everybody has their "hot buttons" in a deal. These are the points that, in the mind of the buyer or seller, will make or break the deal. Once you identify them and can find a way to ease their concerns, you’ll win. It works all the time. As an example, if the seller wants to be certain that they walk away from the deal with a specific amount of money in their pocket after broker commissions, paying debt, etc., then the down payment amount of the deal is clearly their “hot button”. There are two ways to determine this: put in an offer and see where and how they counter, or ask them pointedly: “What’s more important to you, the down payment amount or the purchase price?”
The former method is usually more effective only because you can read into a variety of issues once you see the structure of a counter-offer. However, asking them directly is a very accurate way to measure this as well.
Getting back to our example, if it’s the down payment then it’s your turn to leverage the deal. Get as close as you can to their figure but, in exchange, get reduced interest rates on the balance of sale, extend the first payment to 60, 90 or 180 days after closing, negotiate the first year without interest, include the ability to payoff the note at anytime without penalty or to make periodic lump-sum payments towards the principal. There are tons that you can do once you know their pain.
An associate of mine who is an excellent negotiator always says that you should make, and get, concessions. In other words, whenever you agree to something, get something in return. It always works.
Preparation is The Key To Successful Negotiating
The average purchase agreement has over fifty individual clauses to be negotiated. There is far more involved than simply agreeing upon the price, down payment and terms. You will have to deal with the specific assets to be included, non-compete clauses, lease assignments, inspection period, adjustments, employee issues, liabilities, and on and on it goes.
Think about the specific point to be negotiated, what your position is and what your rebuttal will be to the seller’s comments. Play the “what if” game prior to sitting down to the table.
Play "what if"
Layout the various points, giving consideration to what the short-term and long-term impact will be of your decision. As an example, if you negotiate finance terms with the seller with one lump-sum payment down the road (i.e. a "balloon payment") you must also consider that the business MUST be able to make that payment at that time. What if there’s a cash crunch? What if you’d like to use the funds for something else at that time? What if…. you want to balance that with a straight-line finance program so that you’ll know what your obligations are every month and you can budget accordingly. Every situation is different, but again, consider the impact for today and down the road.
Structuring The Offer – and Remember, It’s YOUR Offer!
The offer will, in most cases, begin the ball rolling on a potential acquisition. At times, this is the most effective way to gain insight into the guts of the business. You may also be dismayed to learn that you may in fact have to make an offer without all of the data that you would like to have. As an example, you may only gain access to the true financials after an accepted offer has been put forth.
This is fine; no need to panic. You may be asking: “How can I formulate an offer without all of the information?” A good question in theory, but this is not always reality. Consider the fact that sellers may be exposed to a plethora of buyers and, not knowing which ones are serious, they may choose to hold back certain information.
The offer you present is YOUR offer. You should be comfortable tabling any terms that YOU are comfortable with. Whatever the seller is “asking” is simply a guideline. Remember, it’s an “asking price” not a purchase price. On the other hand, don’t be ridiculous. Table something that forms the basis of a future meaningful conversation. Your offer is, to a certain extent, a tool to prod the seller into playing his or her hand. To get them to demonstrate their pain; the areas that are fundamental to the deal - from their perspective.
There’s nothing wrong if they are insulted. They may or may not be, and you can always refine your offer as the case may be. Additionally, a buyer’s value of the business will certainly differ from a seller. That’s where negotiation comes into play. There are no hard rules for what the terms of your offer should be. Each situation is different. While it’s not advisable to make unlimited offers expecting one to catch on, you MUST make offers. Don’t over-engineer each potential acquisition. Once a business is of interest, you’ve done your homework, and you determine that you would, under the right conditions, like to buy the business, then get your offer in.
There are standard offer-to-purchase agreements available to use. Every business broker will have one and so too will most attorneys. The one thing that you want to be certain of is to retain the ability to rescind your offer at your “sole and absolute discretion” if you determine that the business is not what it was represented to be. However, you cannot have an unlimited time frame to do so after acceptance of the offer.
Generally, once an offer is accepted, you will have a certain number of days to perform the financial due diligence (often referred to as the “Inspection Period”). Allow yourself enough time to conduct this. The idea is that you must be able to retract the offer for any reason whatsoever right up to the last day of this due diligence period.
There are some offer contracts that stipulate that you cannot retract your offer and get a refund of your deposit if the financials are within 5% of what has been presented. This is a ridiculous clause. Never agree to it. You must be able to get any monies returned, for any reason, through the due diligence phase. Conversely, if you sign off after the due diligence and then decide thereafter you do not wish to go through with the purchase, the seller is, in all fairness, entitled to your deposit.
Lawyers and Accountants and Others - Everyone has an Opinion
Let’s understand one thing: lawyers cannot negotiate your deal for you. They can certainly help to ensure your protection from potential liabilities but when it comes to negotiating the actual business deal, they are definitely NOT the ones to act on your behalf. I am certain that any attorney reading this column will disagree. That’s OK. However, I have yet to meet more than a handful of attorneys who demonstrated any proficiency whatsoever in the actual art of negotiating the deal points of a small business acquisition. Most have never even bought a business themselves so even though they may have been involved in deals, it’s not the same perspective. You’ll want to hear their point, but their input should be reserved for the areas in which they are experts: the legal aspects of the deal.
As for accountants, they too have their role: the input from a financial point of view and tax consequences. Leverage their expertise as well, but do not let them influence the actual business deal.
The Last Word
Great negotiators are not born; they evolve. Your effectiveness will increase over time. Be creative. Be reasonable. Keep the end result of putting a good deal together in your mind. Don’t lose patience. Don’t be confrontational. If there is tough news to deliver, let your broker do it. After all, you will need the seller to provide you with training.
Learn from each experience. Understand that there will be set backs; work though each. You cannot win every point. It’s a give-and-take. Prioritize. Prepare. Win/win is not realistic. The objective is clear: you win, the seller is reasonably happy!
This article is © Copyright 2001-2008 by Richard Parker and may not be reproduced in any format whatsoever without prior written consent of the author.
The recommendations of reading, reference materials or links mentioned, are for general informational purposes only. The materials are intended as a public service and are not a substitute for obtaining professional advice from a qualified firm, person or corporation. Consult the appropriate professional advisor for complete and up-to-the-minute information. These materials do not constitute the rendering of any legal or professional services.
Labels:
career builder,
jobs,
reduction in force,
RIF
Friday, November 28, 2008
Setting Up a Place in Your Home to Conduct a Job Search - Nancy J. Collamer
Nancy Collamer M.S. is a career counselor and founder of Jobsandmoms.com, a website for professional-level women who are looking for flexible jobs, work-at-home opportunities and innovative work/life resources.
She is the Author of the book, "The Layoff Survival Guide."
For the duration of your job search, your home will be your office. Setting up your office can be a cathartic experience, providing you with a sense of purpose and structure as you begin the job search process. Ideally, you’ll be able to easily convert your existing home office into your temporary headquarters. But, if that is unrealistic, you can set up shop in a bedroom, basement or any other relatively quiet area of your home.
Not all offices are created equal however, so keep these tips in mind when deciding where to set up “job search central”:
• Opt for a room that can be sealed off when necessary. Having the ability to shut a door when you need to concentrate or handle important telephone conversations is critical.
• Find a space with good light and a pleasant décor - you’ll be spending a lot of hours at your desk so make it as task-friendly as possible.
• Avoid high-traffic areas such as the kitchen or family room, where the level of activity and noise might prove to be a distraction.
• Let your family know that your office is off-limits. If you’ll be sharing a computer, set up ground-rules governing who gets to use the computer when.
• Consider posting your office hours on your door. This will serve as a gentle reminder to both you and your family that you have established working hours during which time you should not be disturbed.
• Invest in a good quality desk chair – your back will thank you!
• Keep all your job search materials in one room, organized with a file for each opportunity, so that you can easily find things when you need them.
• Decorate your office to give it the same feel as a “real” office - with framed family photos or personal mementos.
TIP: At the end of the day, rewind the tape on your answering machine, so you won’t miss any important phone calls!
In order to conduct your job search effectively, you’ll need to have access to some basic office equipment:
• Computer/ Printer
• Telephone and answering machine
• Fax
• Internet access/e-mail account (make sure screen names are appropriate for business!)
With the exception of the telephone and answering machine (and please be sure your answering message is professional - no giggling children or cutesy songs), it’s unnecessary to purchase new equipment if you don’t already own it. If you don’t have a computer, you can rent computer time at office centers like Kinkos. Many local libraries and community centers also offer access to computers and the internet. If you’re a poor typist, consider hiring a friend or college student to process your correspondence.
TIP: You can send and receive faxes through local office supply stores.
TIP: Consider using a cell phone as your main contact number. You’ll avoid the
problem of having your children answering your phone (and not taking down a message properly) and you’ll be able to speak with people while you’re away from your office. If you go this route, ensure that your cell phone has voice mail for incoming messages
She is the Author of the book, "The Layoff Survival Guide."
For the duration of your job search, your home will be your office. Setting up your office can be a cathartic experience, providing you with a sense of purpose and structure as you begin the job search process. Ideally, you’ll be able to easily convert your existing home office into your temporary headquarters. But, if that is unrealistic, you can set up shop in a bedroom, basement or any other relatively quiet area of your home.
Not all offices are created equal however, so keep these tips in mind when deciding where to set up “job search central”:
• Opt for a room that can be sealed off when necessary. Having the ability to shut a door when you need to concentrate or handle important telephone conversations is critical.
• Find a space with good light and a pleasant décor - you’ll be spending a lot of hours at your desk so make it as task-friendly as possible.
• Avoid high-traffic areas such as the kitchen or family room, where the level of activity and noise might prove to be a distraction.
• Let your family know that your office is off-limits. If you’ll be sharing a computer, set up ground-rules governing who gets to use the computer when.
• Consider posting your office hours on your door. This will serve as a gentle reminder to both you and your family that you have established working hours during which time you should not be disturbed.
• Invest in a good quality desk chair – your back will thank you!
• Keep all your job search materials in one room, organized with a file for each opportunity, so that you can easily find things when you need them.
• Decorate your office to give it the same feel as a “real” office - with framed family photos or personal mementos.
TIP: At the end of the day, rewind the tape on your answering machine, so you won’t miss any important phone calls!
In order to conduct your job search effectively, you’ll need to have access to some basic office equipment:
• Computer/ Printer
• Telephone and answering machine
• Fax
• Internet access/e-mail account (make sure screen names are appropriate for business!)
With the exception of the telephone and answering machine (and please be sure your answering message is professional - no giggling children or cutesy songs), it’s unnecessary to purchase new equipment if you don’t already own it. If you don’t have a computer, you can rent computer time at office centers like Kinkos. Many local libraries and community centers also offer access to computers and the internet. If you’re a poor typist, consider hiring a friend or college student to process your correspondence.
TIP: You can send and receive faxes through local office supply stores.
TIP: Consider using a cell phone as your main contact number. You’ll avoid the
problem of having your children answering your phone (and not taking down a message properly) and you’ll be able to speak with people while you’re away from your office. If you go this route, ensure that your cell phone has voice mail for incoming messages
Labels:
career builder,
jobs,
layoff,
layoff reduction in force,
List of careers
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Give THANKS Today
You have many things to be THANKFUL for...family, friends and your health. Today, more than any other day, is a reason to celebrate that.
Life is a MARATHON. Patience is still a virtue. You embrace the victories and learn from the losses.
Today, I give thanks for my family and friends and my third grade soccer team.
I have coached recreational soccer for over 10 years. While I have seen my share of gifted players and terrific teams, my favorite team is the one I am coaching right now. They are an incredible bunch of third graders in West Nyack, NY. Our record this year was 0-6-1.
Why are they my favorite team? Because each and every game they NEVER GAVE UP. Always in it until the end.
The other team had their one or two star players who always scored the goals. While the balance of THEIR teammates where on a winning team, those other kids weren't doing anything to contribute. They just liked being on a winning team. Who wouldn't. Pretty shallow, right?
My kids, however, all contributed. They worked as a team, tried different positions and came ready to play and always played to win. When the game was over, win or lose, they went to the side of the field, had their snack, and made plans for playdates later in the day. Come on, they had their priorities.
In life they are going to be successful. They learned that you are not always going to win. Nobody wins every game. But they did learn never to give up. While there are more important things in life than playing soccer, the life lessons they are learning now will help define how they approach what hits them later on in life.
And when the game was over, they wanted to hang out with each other off the field. In the car going home, nobody talks about the game. They are too busy planning drop-offs and pick-ups for playdates.
And the message is? While it is normal to feel bad at the start of a RIF, let it go. Be a part of a team that never gives up. Stay positive around your friends and family, be grateful for them, let them know how much YOU care.
More importantly, NEVER EVER, EVER, EVER, GIVE UP! Not on your family, your friends or yourself. You will get another job, get your career back on track, you will prevail.
Right now, enjoy your playdate and get some turkey!
HAVE A WONDERFUL THANKSGIVING!
Life is a MARATHON. Patience is still a virtue. You embrace the victories and learn from the losses.
Today, I give thanks for my family and friends and my third grade soccer team.
I have coached recreational soccer for over 10 years. While I have seen my share of gifted players and terrific teams, my favorite team is the one I am coaching right now. They are an incredible bunch of third graders in West Nyack, NY. Our record this year was 0-6-1.
Why are they my favorite team? Because each and every game they NEVER GAVE UP. Always in it until the end.
The other team had their one or two star players who always scored the goals. While the balance of THEIR teammates where on a winning team, those other kids weren't doing anything to contribute. They just liked being on a winning team. Who wouldn't. Pretty shallow, right?
My kids, however, all contributed. They worked as a team, tried different positions and came ready to play and always played to win. When the game was over, win or lose, they went to the side of the field, had their snack, and made plans for playdates later in the day. Come on, they had their priorities.
In life they are going to be successful. They learned that you are not always going to win. Nobody wins every game. But they did learn never to give up. While there are more important things in life than playing soccer, the life lessons they are learning now will help define how they approach what hits them later on in life.
And when the game was over, they wanted to hang out with each other off the field. In the car going home, nobody talks about the game. They are too busy planning drop-offs and pick-ups for playdates.
And the message is? While it is normal to feel bad at the start of a RIF, let it go. Be a part of a team that never gives up. Stay positive around your friends and family, be grateful for them, let them know how much YOU care.
More importantly, NEVER EVER, EVER, EVER, GIVE UP! Not on your family, your friends or yourself. You will get another job, get your career back on track, you will prevail.
Right now, enjoy your playdate and get some turkey!
HAVE A WONDERFUL THANKSGIVING!
Labels:
career builder,
jobs,
List of careers,
reduction in force,
resume,
RIF
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
STOP...Give Thanks Tomorrow...and Look Forward to the Future - Mark J. Walker
The point of Thanksgiving is to remember the things we have to be grateful for. It's our special time to give thanks... not just for the obvious, like food, but for the thousands of fortunate moments, the multitude of blessings that we receive each year.
That's not always as easy as it sounds. We tend to remember the bad things much more easily than the good. That's where this article comes in. using the tips below, you can make thankfulness an everyday habit. It's a skill that will benefit you throughout the year.
Think of all the good things that happened because something bad happened first. For example, "If that slow driver hadn't pulled in front of me, I would have gotten a speeding ticket." "If I hadn't tripped on the playground, I would never have met such a nice person." "If I hadn't experienced unemployment, I would never have acquired the skills that got me a more fulfilling job."
Don't focus on what you don't have. Focus on what you do have. For example: "I'm so fortunate to have a warm place to sleep in the winter." "I'm so fortunate to live in a safe neighborhood where I can take walks." "I'm so fortunate to be able to see the beauty around me."
Think about people you've known that have made you thankful for their existence. They can be family, friends or simply people that you've read about or seen on television. Imagine how many other people there are who might be equally as wonderful. You just haven't met them yet.
Think about people who have made life hard for you. Now think about the things you accomplished because of them. Did you finish something because they said that you couldn't? Did you get better at something because they made fun of you when you did it badly? Did their cruel actions make you vow never to treat others that way? Even the negative forces in your life can be hidden blessings, worthy of your gratitude.
Think about the places that make you smile: A favorite hangout, a wooded trail, an exciting city, a great spot from which to view the sky, a hill that you once rolled down. Give thanks for all these things.
Now pass it on. True gratitude involves action. Lend a hand. Pitch in. Make a gift. Give your time. Listen. Give back as often as you can. Even a friendly greeting can make all the difference in the world.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Love your family and friends, continue to keep them close.
That's not always as easy as it sounds. We tend to remember the bad things much more easily than the good. That's where this article comes in. using the tips below, you can make thankfulness an everyday habit. It's a skill that will benefit you throughout the year.
Think of all the good things that happened because something bad happened first. For example, "If that slow driver hadn't pulled in front of me, I would have gotten a speeding ticket." "If I hadn't tripped on the playground, I would never have met such a nice person." "If I hadn't experienced unemployment, I would never have acquired the skills that got me a more fulfilling job."
Don't focus on what you don't have. Focus on what you do have. For example: "I'm so fortunate to have a warm place to sleep in the winter." "I'm so fortunate to live in a safe neighborhood where I can take walks." "I'm so fortunate to be able to see the beauty around me."
Think about people you've known that have made you thankful for their existence. They can be family, friends or simply people that you've read about or seen on television. Imagine how many other people there are who might be equally as wonderful. You just haven't met them yet.
Think about people who have made life hard for you. Now think about the things you accomplished because of them. Did you finish something because they said that you couldn't? Did you get better at something because they made fun of you when you did it badly? Did their cruel actions make you vow never to treat others that way? Even the negative forces in your life can be hidden blessings, worthy of your gratitude.
Think about the places that make you smile: A favorite hangout, a wooded trail, an exciting city, a great spot from which to view the sky, a hill that you once rolled down. Give thanks for all these things.
Now pass it on. True gratitude involves action. Lend a hand. Pitch in. Make a gift. Give your time. Listen. Give back as often as you can. Even a friendly greeting can make all the difference in the world.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Love your family and friends, continue to keep them close.
Labels:
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From a Corporate Job to a Nonprofit - Toddi Gutner
Toddi Gutner writes for the Career section in The Wall Street Journal, www.wsj.com.
As the country continues to shed jobs, laid-off employees may be rethinking their careers. For some, that may mean shifting from just doing well financially to also doing good. Turning your veteran business skills and experience to the world of nonprofit organizations can be rewarding. But there are also challenges. When making a transition to nonprofit management, consider the following:
Expect a pay cut. Depending on the size, location and mission of the nonprofit, salaries will typically be less than those of corporate jobs for many midlevel and entry-level jobs, says Thomas Pollak, program director of the nonprofit National Center for Charitable Statistics at the Urban Institute. At executive and management levels, salaries are often closer to those in the for-profit world. Additional benefits like restricted stock, options and lofty bonuses will be a thing of the past.
Be realistic. There are often considerable financial constraints at a nonprofit that aren't as prevalent in corporate America. Go into the position with realistic expectations of what you can and cannot achieve. Nonprofits need the business skills -- like managing profit and losses -- that executives learn in corporate America. But these organizations rely on often-erratic revenue streams from donations, foundations and grants to fund budgets. Remember, "It will be just as hard to achieve your goals, maybe harder, as in corporate life," says John Challenger, chief executive officer of Challenger Gray & Christmas, an outplacement-services firm in Chicago.
Do a SWOT. When Joyce Barnathan took over as the president of the International Center for Journalists, a nonprofit that aims to raise journalism standards world-wide, she was coming off a 25-year career in media as a top business magazine editor and writer. Like most new leaders in the for-profit world, Ms. Barnathan did a SWOT analysis assessing the organization's Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. "I had to think about the strengths of the organization and build on them without breaking what isn't broken," says Ms. Barnathan.
Build your team. In corporate America, new leaders often quickly sweep aside current management. Nonprofit managers need to take a more-measured approach with the team they inherit, because nonprofit employees are typically bound together by a common commitment to a cause. Thus, there can be an unspoken understanding that job security is part of the employment package, says Mr. Challenger. Changes may need to be made, but it could take a year to build the team you want.
Prepare to fund raise. One of the key roles of almost every nonprofit manager is to raise money and spread the word about the organization. As a fundraiser, you'll need to attend board committee meetings and cultivate and attend fundraising events. Consider attending nonprofit training courses at the Foundation Center to beef up these skills. For many nonprofit newbies, finding ways to diversify and attract new funding sources is key. "You have to find sophisticated, smart ways to interest a broad array of funders that wouldn't normally back you," says Ms. Barnathan.
As the country continues to shed jobs, laid-off employees may be rethinking their careers. For some, that may mean shifting from just doing well financially to also doing good. Turning your veteran business skills and experience to the world of nonprofit organizations can be rewarding. But there are also challenges. When making a transition to nonprofit management, consider the following:
Expect a pay cut. Depending on the size, location and mission of the nonprofit, salaries will typically be less than those of corporate jobs for many midlevel and entry-level jobs, says Thomas Pollak, program director of the nonprofit National Center for Charitable Statistics at the Urban Institute. At executive and management levels, salaries are often closer to those in the for-profit world. Additional benefits like restricted stock, options and lofty bonuses will be a thing of the past.
Be realistic. There are often considerable financial constraints at a nonprofit that aren't as prevalent in corporate America. Go into the position with realistic expectations of what you can and cannot achieve. Nonprofits need the business skills -- like managing profit and losses -- that executives learn in corporate America. But these organizations rely on often-erratic revenue streams from donations, foundations and grants to fund budgets. Remember, "It will be just as hard to achieve your goals, maybe harder, as in corporate life," says John Challenger, chief executive officer of Challenger Gray & Christmas, an outplacement-services firm in Chicago.
Do a SWOT. When Joyce Barnathan took over as the president of the International Center for Journalists, a nonprofit that aims to raise journalism standards world-wide, she was coming off a 25-year career in media as a top business magazine editor and writer. Like most new leaders in the for-profit world, Ms. Barnathan did a SWOT analysis assessing the organization's Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. "I had to think about the strengths of the organization and build on them without breaking what isn't broken," says Ms. Barnathan.
Build your team. In corporate America, new leaders often quickly sweep aside current management. Nonprofit managers need to take a more-measured approach with the team they inherit, because nonprofit employees are typically bound together by a common commitment to a cause. Thus, there can be an unspoken understanding that job security is part of the employment package, says Mr. Challenger. Changes may need to be made, but it could take a year to build the team you want.
Prepare to fund raise. One of the key roles of almost every nonprofit manager is to raise money and spread the word about the organization. As a fundraiser, you'll need to attend board committee meetings and cultivate and attend fundraising events. Consider attending nonprofit training courses at the Foundation Center to beef up these skills. For many nonprofit newbies, finding ways to diversify and attract new funding sources is key. "You have to find sophisticated, smart ways to interest a broad array of funders that wouldn't normally back you," says Ms. Barnathan.
Labels:
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Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Networking - Nancy J. Collamer
Nancy Collamer M.S. is a career counselor and founder of Jobsandmoms.com, a website for professional-level women who are looking for flexible jobs, work-at-home opportunities and innovative work/life resources.
She is the Author of the book, "The Layoff Survival Guide."
Unless you’ve been living on a different planet, you already know that networking is your single best way to learn of job opportunities, even when a specific job opening does not yet exist. Experts estimate that somewhere around 80% of job openings are filled using networking contacts. Hands down, it is the single most important tool of your job search.
That said, I know there are more than a few of you, who upon reading the word, “networking” just felt your stomachs start to churn. You’re thinking, “But I don’t want to turn into a slick salesman who has to pester my friends and family” … “I hate making those phone calls”…”I’d be a whole lot more comfortable just responding to the classifieds.”
I know how you feel. I used to hate to “ask for help.” But, I’ve learned over time that:
• You don’t have to be Slick Willy to be an effective networker – you can adapt networking techniques to a style that works well for you.
• People actually appreciate it when you ask for their assistance because now “you owe them.” Next time they need help, they know you’ll be willing to return the favor.
• Most important, networking helps you succeed. It’s the best way to learn of opportunities before the competition and it’s the most effective way to get a personal introduction to an employer.
Some Common Networking Fears:
I don’t know many people.
Spend some time thinking about this, develop a list and you’ll soon discover that you know many more people than you think. Think of your network in terms of categories:
• Business Associates: Former employers, co-workers, vendors, clients and colleagues
• Personal Contacts: Friends, family, neighbors, schoolmates, sorority or fraternity members, acquaintances you’ve made at church, temple, volunteering or through your children.
• Service Industry Acquaintances: Your hairdresser, banker, doctor, lawyer, real-estate agent, etc.
• People you don’t know personally, but with whom you share a common interest – Alumni associations, Industry groups, PTA, etc.
Spend several days brainstorming, writing down and expanding your networking list – you’ll be amazed at how many people you really do know.
I feel really uncomfortable calling people
Most people do. But you can ease the way, by first sending an e-mail or letter explaining your situation, what you are looking for, and how your contacts can help you. Send the letter, with an attached resume, and a promise to follow-up with a phone call. If you are really nervous, it’s always a good idea to start networking with people with whom you feel most comfortable, and then slowly work towards your more challenging assignments.
What if they don’t have any openings – aren’t I just wasting my time?
Networking is not about calling people up and asking them if they know of any openings. The purpose of networking is to make connections and establish relationships. If you ask people, “Do you have any openings at your company?” and the answer is “No” the conversation can go no further. But, if you approach the conversation with a request to learn more about their company (or position or industry), then you stand a far better chance of getting a receptive audience.
Why would anybody want to speak with me?
Lots of people are nice and want to help. Others will agree because they’ll feel flattered when asked for their input. But even if they’re neither nice nor flattered, chances are they’ll say, “yes” for fear that next time they’ll be the ones asking for help. As the adage goes, “what goes around comes around” and in today’s economy nobody is immune from the workplace/job-search merry-go-round.
How can I build my network?
• Join networking groups
• Frequent job fairs
• Attend trade shows and conventions
• Go to local meetings of professional organizations
• Attend speeches or continuing ed classes in your field of interest
• Read newspapers and trade journals for announcements about new hires or promotions, and then send a letter of congratulations to the appropriate party.
• Get involved with an online newsgroup or e-mail link (see www.yahoo.com for how to start your own online networking group).
Always conclude your networking meetings by asking for the name of somebody else you might speak with. For example: “ Catherine, you have been so helpful to me today. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate your insights. I have one last favor to ask. Would you be able to provide me with the name of another association member who might be willing to meet with me to discuss growth opportunities in our industry?”
By building upon your contacts, your networks will expand exponentially, bringing you into new spheres of influence and possibility.
She is the Author of the book, "The Layoff Survival Guide."
Unless you’ve been living on a different planet, you already know that networking is your single best way to learn of job opportunities, even when a specific job opening does not yet exist. Experts estimate that somewhere around 80% of job openings are filled using networking contacts. Hands down, it is the single most important tool of your job search.
That said, I know there are more than a few of you, who upon reading the word, “networking” just felt your stomachs start to churn. You’re thinking, “But I don’t want to turn into a slick salesman who has to pester my friends and family” … “I hate making those phone calls”…”I’d be a whole lot more comfortable just responding to the classifieds.”
I know how you feel. I used to hate to “ask for help.” But, I’ve learned over time that:
• You don’t have to be Slick Willy to be an effective networker – you can adapt networking techniques to a style that works well for you.
• People actually appreciate it when you ask for their assistance because now “you owe them.” Next time they need help, they know you’ll be willing to return the favor.
• Most important, networking helps you succeed. It’s the best way to learn of opportunities before the competition and it’s the most effective way to get a personal introduction to an employer.
Some Common Networking Fears:
I don’t know many people.
Spend some time thinking about this, develop a list and you’ll soon discover that you know many more people than you think. Think of your network in terms of categories:
• Business Associates: Former employers, co-workers, vendors, clients and colleagues
• Personal Contacts: Friends, family, neighbors, schoolmates, sorority or fraternity members, acquaintances you’ve made at church, temple, volunteering or through your children.
• Service Industry Acquaintances: Your hairdresser, banker, doctor, lawyer, real-estate agent, etc.
• People you don’t know personally, but with whom you share a common interest – Alumni associations, Industry groups, PTA, etc.
Spend several days brainstorming, writing down and expanding your networking list – you’ll be amazed at how many people you really do know.
I feel really uncomfortable calling people
Most people do. But you can ease the way, by first sending an e-mail or letter explaining your situation, what you are looking for, and how your contacts can help you. Send the letter, with an attached resume, and a promise to follow-up with a phone call. If you are really nervous, it’s always a good idea to start networking with people with whom you feel most comfortable, and then slowly work towards your more challenging assignments.
What if they don’t have any openings – aren’t I just wasting my time?
Networking is not about calling people up and asking them if they know of any openings. The purpose of networking is to make connections and establish relationships. If you ask people, “Do you have any openings at your company?” and the answer is “No” the conversation can go no further. But, if you approach the conversation with a request to learn more about their company (or position or industry), then you stand a far better chance of getting a receptive audience.
Why would anybody want to speak with me?
Lots of people are nice and want to help. Others will agree because they’ll feel flattered when asked for their input. But even if they’re neither nice nor flattered, chances are they’ll say, “yes” for fear that next time they’ll be the ones asking for help. As the adage goes, “what goes around comes around” and in today’s economy nobody is immune from the workplace/job-search merry-go-round.
How can I build my network?
• Join networking groups
• Frequent job fairs
• Attend trade shows and conventions
• Go to local meetings of professional organizations
• Attend speeches or continuing ed classes in your field of interest
• Read newspapers and trade journals for announcements about new hires or promotions, and then send a letter of congratulations to the appropriate party.
• Get involved with an online newsgroup or e-mail link (see www.yahoo.com for how to start your own online networking group).
Always conclude your networking meetings by asking for the name of somebody else you might speak with. For example: “ Catherine, you have been so helpful to me today. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate your insights. I have one last favor to ask. Would you be able to provide me with the name of another association member who might be willing to meet with me to discuss growth opportunities in our industry?”
By building upon your contacts, your networks will expand exponentially, bringing you into new spheres of influence and possibility.
Labels:
layoff,
new business,
reduction in force,
resume
Layoff Survival Strategy: Remember Your Spouse is Hurting Too! - Nancy J. Collamer
Nancy Collamer M.S. is a career counselor and founder of Jobsandmoms.com, a website for professional-level women who are looking for flexible jobs, work-at-home opportunities and innovative work/life resources.
She is the Author of the book, "The Layoff Survival Guide."
Having the support of your spouse is one of the most important factors for success in your job search campaign. Yet, all too many unemployed workers, both men and women, proceed with an attitude of, “this is my problem, let me fix it” that ultimately undermines both their relationship and the outcome of their search.
Yes, this may have started out as “your problem” but if you think your spouse isn’t impacted by this turn of events, think again. Not only are your finances intertwined, but virtually every aspect of your next career move -- decisions about relocation, accepting a job that involves significant travel, or having to adjust your lifestyle to accommodate a lower income – all directly impact your spouse and your family.
And during the job search process, your spouse will also be dealing with his/her own hopes and fears about the future. Your wedding vows may not have included, “while employed or unemployed,” but they probably included, “for better or for worse” (or some version thereof). That commitment is worth remembering during this transition.
If you could get inside of your spouses head right now, these are some thoughts you might hear:
Talk to me…please!
If you want me to be supportive, let me know what’s going on. It’s not necessary (or advisable) to discuss every last phone conversation or memo, but do let me know about interviews, major stumbling blocks and job offers as they happen. Keep me posted on your schedule. I won’t disturb you if I know you’re on “work time” but I might ask you to help out around the home if I assume you’re just hanging out.
Don’t be surprised if I get angry with you for taking on a big household project, like painting the exterior of our home. On the other hand, I might also get annoyed if you have the audacity to suggest we hire somebody to paint the house, when you have the time to do so. The truth is sometimes I’m not sure where you should be spending your time and either way there are pitfalls. Let’s work together to discuss and define priorities and avoid getting into a tug of war over these misunderstandings.
Let me help
Allow me the satisfaction of feeling needed in this situation. If you’re not comfortable having me critique your resume, I understand. But, let me do something. I can search the classifieds and clip positions of interest. I can tap into my network and help find useful contacts for informational interviews. I can do some Internet research. Let me help you in ways that work for both of us. By the same token, don’t expect me to be your gopher, stuffing 500 envelopes on demand. If you really need help with mundane tasks, ask me and I’ll try to be of help if I can. But please understand that I also have priorities that need my attention. Respect my time and intelligence and I’ll be more than willing to meet you halfway.
Being supportive and offering constructive criticism is not mutually exclusive
I love you and know that your ego is a bit bruised right now, so I’ll try to be extra kind. However, please understand if I can’t always give you unconditional encouragement and praise. There may be times when I see you do or say something that needs correcting. Try to understand that I am only trying to be helpful. If I hurt your feelings, I’m sorry.
Don’t expect me to pick up your dirty socks!
Just because you’re out of work doesn’t grant you the right to take a vacation from your duties at home. On the contrary, now that you’re home, it’s only reasonable to expect you to pick up a bit more of the home - based chores. Old patterns of “who handles what” may need to be reapportioned, at least temporarily, to better address our current situation.
Remember I’m scared too.
I’ll try to be as supportive as possible, but sometimes my own fears are going to get in the way. Like you, I’m not quite sure what the future holds, and my worries may make me irritable or irrational. Bear with me and I’ll promise to do the same for you. Working together we will get through this.
She is the Author of the book, "The Layoff Survival Guide."
Having the support of your spouse is one of the most important factors for success in your job search campaign. Yet, all too many unemployed workers, both men and women, proceed with an attitude of, “this is my problem, let me fix it” that ultimately undermines both their relationship and the outcome of their search.
Yes, this may have started out as “your problem” but if you think your spouse isn’t impacted by this turn of events, think again. Not only are your finances intertwined, but virtually every aspect of your next career move -- decisions about relocation, accepting a job that involves significant travel, or having to adjust your lifestyle to accommodate a lower income – all directly impact your spouse and your family.
And during the job search process, your spouse will also be dealing with his/her own hopes and fears about the future. Your wedding vows may not have included, “while employed or unemployed,” but they probably included, “for better or for worse” (or some version thereof). That commitment is worth remembering during this transition.
If you could get inside of your spouses head right now, these are some thoughts you might hear:
Talk to me…please!
If you want me to be supportive, let me know what’s going on. It’s not necessary (or advisable) to discuss every last phone conversation or memo, but do let me know about interviews, major stumbling blocks and job offers as they happen. Keep me posted on your schedule. I won’t disturb you if I know you’re on “work time” but I might ask you to help out around the home if I assume you’re just hanging out.
Don’t be surprised if I get angry with you for taking on a big household project, like painting the exterior of our home. On the other hand, I might also get annoyed if you have the audacity to suggest we hire somebody to paint the house, when you have the time to do so. The truth is sometimes I’m not sure where you should be spending your time and either way there are pitfalls. Let’s work together to discuss and define priorities and avoid getting into a tug of war over these misunderstandings.
Let me help
Allow me the satisfaction of feeling needed in this situation. If you’re not comfortable having me critique your resume, I understand. But, let me do something. I can search the classifieds and clip positions of interest. I can tap into my network and help find useful contacts for informational interviews. I can do some Internet research. Let me help you in ways that work for both of us. By the same token, don’t expect me to be your gopher, stuffing 500 envelopes on demand. If you really need help with mundane tasks, ask me and I’ll try to be of help if I can. But please understand that I also have priorities that need my attention. Respect my time and intelligence and I’ll be more than willing to meet you halfway.
Being supportive and offering constructive criticism is not mutually exclusive
I love you and know that your ego is a bit bruised right now, so I’ll try to be extra kind. However, please understand if I can’t always give you unconditional encouragement and praise. There may be times when I see you do or say something that needs correcting. Try to understand that I am only trying to be helpful. If I hurt your feelings, I’m sorry.
Don’t expect me to pick up your dirty socks!
Just because you’re out of work doesn’t grant you the right to take a vacation from your duties at home. On the contrary, now that you’re home, it’s only reasonable to expect you to pick up a bit more of the home - based chores. Old patterns of “who handles what” may need to be reapportioned, at least temporarily, to better address our current situation.
Remember I’m scared too.
I’ll try to be as supportive as possible, but sometimes my own fears are going to get in the way. Like you, I’m not quite sure what the future holds, and my worries may make me irritable or irrational. Bear with me and I’ll promise to do the same for you. Working together we will get through this.
Labels:
career,
career builder,
jobs,
layoff,
layoff reduction in force,
new business,
resume
Monday, November 24, 2008
What to Do When You're Downsized - Alison Doyle
Alison Doyle is a job search expert with many years of experience in human resources, career development, and job searching, with a focus on online job searching and job search technology. She has covered job searching for About.com since 1998.
Alison is the author of Internet Your Way to a New Job: How to Really Find a Job Online (2008) and the About.com Guide to Job Searching (2006).
I recently talked to someone who had relocated to New York City for a job with what he thought was a well-funded start-up company. He had what seemed like a great job, an excellent salary and, of course, oodles of stock options. Six months later, the stock options were almost worthless, the company is laying-off, and it looks like he might be next.
The next item on his agenda might be to stop by a Pink Slip Party, hosted by The Hired Guns for recently downsized workers, recruiters, headhunters, job hunting experts, and career coaches.
What if you have a premonition that you might be next? A party might help, but, more importantly, plan ahead and ask what benefits terminated employees are eligible for. If you've already been laid-off and haven't been informed about benefits, call the Human Resources department at your former employer or your manager to request information on the status of your benefits:
Ask about severance pay, accrued vacation and sick pay, pension benefits, and eligibility for unemployment insurance.
If you have stock ask what will happen to unvested options.
Request information on continuance of health and life insurance benefits. Your employer, if the firm has over 20 employees, is mandated by law to offer health insurance coverage through COBRA to terminated employees at your expense.
Ask about outplacement resources and/or an office with a phone, computer, and printer to use for your job search.
Request a reference letter for your files.
Refocus your energy and use this unexpected windfall of time as an opportunity to reassess your career goals and to get on track to find a new position. Many job seekers have turned a termination into a positive experience. A forced departure from a job has often opened a path to a new, more satisfying, and better paying career that wouldn't have been considered under other circumstances.
Take Care of the Basics
An important task for those unemployed, and for that matter, for all job seekers, is to create a Job Search Action Plan. Before you can implement the plan, however, you need to take care of the basics. The most important issue, in most cases, is income. File for unemployment, if you haven't done so, then consider other ways to supplement your income.
Alison is the author of Internet Your Way to a New Job: How to Really Find a Job Online (2008) and the About.com Guide to Job Searching (2006).
I recently talked to someone who had relocated to New York City for a job with what he thought was a well-funded start-up company. He had what seemed like a great job, an excellent salary and, of course, oodles of stock options. Six months later, the stock options were almost worthless, the company is laying-off, and it looks like he might be next.
The next item on his agenda might be to stop by a Pink Slip Party, hosted by The Hired Guns for recently downsized workers, recruiters, headhunters, job hunting experts, and career coaches.
What if you have a premonition that you might be next? A party might help, but, more importantly, plan ahead and ask what benefits terminated employees are eligible for. If you've already been laid-off and haven't been informed about benefits, call the Human Resources department at your former employer or your manager to request information on the status of your benefits:
Ask about severance pay, accrued vacation and sick pay, pension benefits, and eligibility for unemployment insurance.
If you have stock ask what will happen to unvested options.
Request information on continuance of health and life insurance benefits. Your employer, if the firm has over 20 employees, is mandated by law to offer health insurance coverage through COBRA to terminated employees at your expense.
Ask about outplacement resources and/or an office with a phone, computer, and printer to use for your job search.
Request a reference letter for your files.
Refocus your energy and use this unexpected windfall of time as an opportunity to reassess your career goals and to get on track to find a new position. Many job seekers have turned a termination into a positive experience. A forced departure from a job has often opened a path to a new, more satisfying, and better paying career that wouldn't have been considered under other circumstances.
Take Care of the Basics
An important task for those unemployed, and for that matter, for all job seekers, is to create a Job Search Action Plan. Before you can implement the plan, however, you need to take care of the basics. The most important issue, in most cases, is income. File for unemployment, if you haven't done so, then consider other ways to supplement your income.
Labels:
layoff,
layoff reduction in force,
new business,
resume
Sunday, November 23, 2008
How to File for Unemployment Benefits - Nancy Collamer
Nancy Collamer M.S. is a career counselor and founder of Jobsandmoms.com, a website for professional-level women who are looking for flexible jobs, work-at-home opportunities and innovative work/life resources.
She is the Author of the book, "The Layoff Survival Guide."
Filing for unemployment benefits used to be a depressing and humiliating process. Fortunately, the process for filing a claim has been simplified in recent years. In many states, you can now file by telephone, removing the stigma of having to stand on long lines at the unemployment office. Once your claim is processed, you’ll be required to call in once a week to keep your account active. Here are some commonly asked questions about unemployment:
When Should I file?
Your claim should be filed in the first week that you have become totally or partially unemployed. Do not delay filing a claim if you do not have your pink slip or if you are uncertain whether you are eligible for benefits for any reason.
Filing immediately is important for two reasons:
1. Ordinarily, you do not get paid for the weeks prior to the week you filed your claim. Benefits will not be paid retroactively for weeks preceding the filing of your claim unless it is established through a hearing process that good cause for late filing existed.
2. It generally takes 2-3 weeks to receive a benefit check so you want to get the process rolling ASAP.
Where do I go to file a claim?
In reality, you may not need to go anywhere as the majority of states now accept unemployment claims via telephone. To find the unemployment office in your state, go to Google and input the name of your state and "filing for unemployment benefits" into the search box.
What if I live in one state but worked in another?
First, contact the state where you live. If you are ineligible for benefits in your home state, they can direct you to the proper office.
What documents will I need to file?
Here again, the specifics vary from state to state. In general you will be asked for:
Your Social Security number.
Your mailing address and zip code.
A telephone number where you can be contacted for additional information.
A paystub.
The names and addresses of all employers for whom you've worked within the last 18 months, including those in another state.
If you do not have all of the documents listed above, you may still file a claim. There may be some delay, however, in receiving your first payment.
How much will I receive?
Assuming you meet the requirements for eligibility your weekly benefit will be calculated based on your prior compensation. The maximum payment you are eligible to receive, as well as the number of weeks you can get paid in one year, varies from state to state.
Be aware that unemployment compensation is taxable income. When you work, your employer withholds money from each paycheck to pay taxes. But when you receive unemployment compensation, nothing is automatically withheld from your check. This means you may have to pay estimated tax to meet your tax obligation. You can find out more about estimated tax and how to pay it by calling or visiting your local IRS office.
Other services offered by unemployment:
In addition to providing unemployment compensation, there are a host of job search and entrepreneurial assistance programs provided free of charge by the state unemployment offices. While the quality of the programs vary from state to state, I have been duly impressed by the scope and professionalism offered by some of the programs located in my home state. Give them a try – you may be pleasantly surprised!
Who is eligible to collect unemployment?
Employees are eligible for unemployment benefits only if they are out of work through no fault of their own. This means that if you have been laid-off, you should be eligible to collect unemployment benefits.
Are unemployment rules administered by the federal government?
No. Unemployment insurance programs are run by each state. Each state determines who is eligible for benefits, benefit amounts, and the length of time workers can receive benefits.
Can I still collect unemployment if I am paid a severance package?
The answer to this question depends mainly on the method used to pay out your severance. If your company terminates your employment, but continues to pay your salary as a severance payment for a fixed number of weeks, you might have to wait to collect unemployment until after the payment stops. If you are paid a lump-sum severance payment upon termination, you might be eligible to immediately collect unemployment benefits. In either situation, file for benefits immediately, and then let your state unemployment office make a determination regarding your eligibility.
Can I collect unemployment benefits if I was fired due to poor performance?
In most states, if you were fired for poor performance (i.e., lack of skills, errors in judgment or failure to meet performance goals) you will still be eligible to collect unemployment. However if your termination is due to “willful misconduct” you will not be able to receive unemployment benefits. Willful misconduct is considered to be behavior that is serious, deliberate and intentionally destructive to the company. However, the determination of what constitutes willful misconduct is determined on a case-by-case basis, and can vary depending upon the state where the termination hearing takes place.
I was an independent contractor on a long-term assignment at a firm that just had massive layoffs. Can I collect unemployment?
Unfortunately, no. Independent contractors are generally not eligible for unemployment insurance benefits.
Are unemployment benefits considered taxable income?
Yes, they are! Most states do not automatically withhold taxes from benefit checks, but you may elect to have the tax withheld by the State Unemployment Insurance agency.
Can I collect unemployment benefits if I worked part-time?
Some states do pay part-time employees benefits. Call your local unemployment office to get information specific to your state.
How long will it take to get my first unemployment check?
In general, it takes two to three weeks after you file your claim to receive your first benefit check.
I think I now want to start my own business. Can I still collect unemployment while I work on my business plan?
Some states pay a self-employed allowance, instead of regular unemployment insurance benefits, to help unemployed workers while they are establishing businesses and becoming self-employed. Participants receive weekly allowances while they are getting their businesses off the ground. This is a voluntary program and as of this writing, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon and Pennsylvania have Self Employment Assistance programs.
How do I get in contact with my state unemployment office? Click here to find out how to collect unemployment in your state.
She is the Author of the book, "The Layoff Survival Guide."
Filing for unemployment benefits used to be a depressing and humiliating process. Fortunately, the process for filing a claim has been simplified in recent years. In many states, you can now file by telephone, removing the stigma of having to stand on long lines at the unemployment office. Once your claim is processed, you’ll be required to call in once a week to keep your account active. Here are some commonly asked questions about unemployment:
When Should I file?
Your claim should be filed in the first week that you have become totally or partially unemployed. Do not delay filing a claim if you do not have your pink slip or if you are uncertain whether you are eligible for benefits for any reason.
Filing immediately is important for two reasons:
1. Ordinarily, you do not get paid for the weeks prior to the week you filed your claim. Benefits will not be paid retroactively for weeks preceding the filing of your claim unless it is established through a hearing process that good cause for late filing existed.
2. It generally takes 2-3 weeks to receive a benefit check so you want to get the process rolling ASAP.
Where do I go to file a claim?
In reality, you may not need to go anywhere as the majority of states now accept unemployment claims via telephone. To find the unemployment office in your state, go to Google and input the name of your state and "filing for unemployment benefits" into the search box.
What if I live in one state but worked in another?
First, contact the state where you live. If you are ineligible for benefits in your home state, they can direct you to the proper office.
What documents will I need to file?
Here again, the specifics vary from state to state. In general you will be asked for:
Your Social Security number.
Your mailing address and zip code.
A telephone number where you can be contacted for additional information.
A paystub.
The names and addresses of all employers for whom you've worked within the last 18 months, including those in another state.
If you do not have all of the documents listed above, you may still file a claim. There may be some delay, however, in receiving your first payment.
How much will I receive?
Assuming you meet the requirements for eligibility your weekly benefit will be calculated based on your prior compensation. The maximum payment you are eligible to receive, as well as the number of weeks you can get paid in one year, varies from state to state.
Be aware that unemployment compensation is taxable income. When you work, your employer withholds money from each paycheck to pay taxes. But when you receive unemployment compensation, nothing is automatically withheld from your check. This means you may have to pay estimated tax to meet your tax obligation. You can find out more about estimated tax and how to pay it by calling or visiting your local IRS office.
Other services offered by unemployment:
In addition to providing unemployment compensation, there are a host of job search and entrepreneurial assistance programs provided free of charge by the state unemployment offices. While the quality of the programs vary from state to state, I have been duly impressed by the scope and professionalism offered by some of the programs located in my home state. Give them a try – you may be pleasantly surprised!
Who is eligible to collect unemployment?
Employees are eligible for unemployment benefits only if they are out of work through no fault of their own. This means that if you have been laid-off, you should be eligible to collect unemployment benefits.
Are unemployment rules administered by the federal government?
No. Unemployment insurance programs are run by each state. Each state determines who is eligible for benefits, benefit amounts, and the length of time workers can receive benefits.
Can I still collect unemployment if I am paid a severance package?
The answer to this question depends mainly on the method used to pay out your severance. If your company terminates your employment, but continues to pay your salary as a severance payment for a fixed number of weeks, you might have to wait to collect unemployment until after the payment stops. If you are paid a lump-sum severance payment upon termination, you might be eligible to immediately collect unemployment benefits. In either situation, file for benefits immediately, and then let your state unemployment office make a determination regarding your eligibility.
Can I collect unemployment benefits if I was fired due to poor performance?
In most states, if you were fired for poor performance (i.e., lack of skills, errors in judgment or failure to meet performance goals) you will still be eligible to collect unemployment. However if your termination is due to “willful misconduct” you will not be able to receive unemployment benefits. Willful misconduct is considered to be behavior that is serious, deliberate and intentionally destructive to the company. However, the determination of what constitutes willful misconduct is determined on a case-by-case basis, and can vary depending upon the state where the termination hearing takes place.
I was an independent contractor on a long-term assignment at a firm that just had massive layoffs. Can I collect unemployment?
Unfortunately, no. Independent contractors are generally not eligible for unemployment insurance benefits.
Are unemployment benefits considered taxable income?
Yes, they are! Most states do not automatically withhold taxes from benefit checks, but you may elect to have the tax withheld by the State Unemployment Insurance agency.
Can I collect unemployment benefits if I worked part-time?
Some states do pay part-time employees benefits. Call your local unemployment office to get information specific to your state.
How long will it take to get my first unemployment check?
In general, it takes two to three weeks after you file your claim to receive your first benefit check.
I think I now want to start my own business. Can I still collect unemployment while I work on my business plan?
Some states pay a self-employed allowance, instead of regular unemployment insurance benefits, to help unemployed workers while they are establishing businesses and becoming self-employed. Participants receive weekly allowances while they are getting their businesses off the ground. This is a voluntary program and as of this writing, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon and Pennsylvania have Self Employment Assistance programs.
How do I get in contact with my state unemployment office? Click here to find out how to collect unemployment in your state.
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