The "R" word

The talk has begun. The "R" word meaning recession. Many are worried, scared and anxious over the possibility of a recession and the loss of jobs. For numerous years this has gone on, and people worry, fret and get back to work. It just isn't easy because of the stress we get over it.

This quote was used in a speech by an associate of mine. It is very appropriate to these times:

Brian Dyson, CEO of Coca Cola Enterprises from 1959-1994 Imagine life as a game in which you are juggling five balls in the air. You name them - work, family, health, friends, and spirit - and you're keeping all of these in the air. You will soon understand that work is a rubber ball. If you drop it, it will bounce back. But the other four balls - family, health, friends, and spirit are made of glass. If you drop one of these, they will be irrevocably scuffed, marked, nicked, damaged, or even shattered. They will never be the same. You must understand that and strive for balance in your life.

Where are those jobs (opportunities)?

Right there in front of you. Remember that 85% are in the hidden market. What does that mean? It means it is up to you to uncover them, find them, exploit them and assist the owner in finding someone to fill it (you maybe). The papers and Internet are great places for ideas. Yet one still must search and apply there too.

It is far more fun to get out and network, meet people and learn something.

Get out of the house and see people, talk to people and LISTEN!!

Resumes

Do I need a resume? What style should I use if I choose to have one?

Ugh!!!! Personally I am not a fan of resumes! They generally appear as an obituary, what I have done. Not what I can do and will do for you. That being said, resumes are pretty normal. A necessary item if you will.

I feel a good one page cover letter can be more effective but we don't always have the option.

My suggestion is to get all the input you can. From potential employers, friends, resume writers, support groups, other unemployed folks. Anyone you can get input from. Find a book or two and look at them. Remember that you can craft many different ones.

If you do as Peter Pasgill and Pam Gross recommend, you'll get to the hiring manager and when asked for a resume ask what they want to see in it then craft one especially for them.

Value of networking

"I'm Energized", she said! Several weeks ago a new attendee to the Job Finders Support Group, in Portland, was listening and watching. At first she wasn't sure she even wanted to attend. As it turned out a former attendee had recommended she attend. She voiced that she saw no value in such a group.

During her first attendance she heard a recommendation to attend a local entrepreneurial meeting , that meets monthly. She decided to go the next week and did attend.

This past week she returned to the group and exclaimed how energized she was. She was glad she stepped out and git back to networking. She voiced the fact that not only did she meet some new people, learn something new, she also felt anew.

People like people-

What do I want to do?

Or in other words, "What do I want to do when I grow up?" Ever hear that one before. That statement is probably more used that any one question. ...and why shouldn't it? There are far more opportunities out there than ever before. You have been exposed to far more than our ancestors.

We school ourselves for one career or occupation only find out there are so many others out there that catch our attention. We are so lucky today because of the great variety of availability.

Before immediately settling down with one idea my suggestion is to talk with many people. Whether it be informational interviews or just casual conversations. Remember that making it fun, meeting people and learning something is what can make it fun and learning.

Listening- what did you say?

Listening!!! So, what did I say? Did you hear me? You never listen. Not sure I understood you. Listening is so crucial to life in general. Not just hearing, but critical listening. What is critical listening?

Listening totally, intently on what is being said. Not formulating an answer or comeback before the speaker is done. We are usually never taught to listen. We are certainly Told to listen as children, or else. We are told in class to be quiet and listen. Some have been known to say that children are to be seen and not heard.

What does all this mean? Until we learn to really listen we just may miss the sale, point, introduction, job opportunity. When networking and we ask a question then don't actively listen we will usually miss the best part. When interviewing it is so important to really listen to the interviewer.

You'll never where you can go and actually grow your listening skills? For those that don't know me I'll elaborate. Toastmasters is a place you will grow your listening skills exponentially. Need I say more.

How should I present myself?

So many answers here, so let's talk in generalities. When we are in the hunt for potential opportunities we should be neat in appearance. A smile on your face is very handy along with confidence and enthusiasm.



Knowing all you can about the potential company when possible. Filled with curiosity and a positive attitude. Your approach is very important so pay attention and listen.