The Best Gift You Can Give This Year is For You

November 25, 2013 | Author: Arleen Bradley

 

The best gift you give is the one you give yourself.

The best gift you give is the one you give yourself.

At this point in the holiday season, you have probably started selecting and wrapping presents for others.  Now is the time to think of yourself and what gifts you would like.  I would like to suggest that you give yourself the gift of peace.  The gift of peace comes with serenity, courage, and wisdom.  These gifts are inspired by a short prayer known as the Serenity Prayer.  Each word has a power that can change the life of anyone who has experienced an unplanned job loss.  By following the advice in this prayer, you can change your life for the better. 

Serenity to accept the things that cannot be changed—You have experienced an unexpected separation from your job, and you have to move on.  You hang on to what could have been by bargaining, denying and wishing that you can go back.  However, by refusing to move forward you run the risk of suffering from many health issues. You notice changes in sleeping and eating habits.  As humans, we find change difficult.  Losing a job is a huge change.  Your daily routine has changed; you interact with different people; loss of dignity and confidence are common.  Give yourselfserenity, and you will find things will become much easier.  Serenity is being able to leave the past behind you, and know that the future is yours.

COURAGE to change the things I can—Job loss brings new opportunities.  Many people fail to see the bright, new future that awaits them when they wallow in the various losses they experience.  In talking to several people who have been laid off, I hear in their stories that there were aspects of the job they didn’t actually like. Here is a excellent opportunity to find something you will enjoy, meet new people, change your commute, use skills you love or that are new and do something that most interests you.  No longer do you have to do a job that you have trained to do; you can explore new challenges in many different directions.  With a little training,  you can be in a different career—one that feeds your passion.  This takes courage.  It isn’t easy to make changes toward a goal that is new and unknown and to move toward a future that will show itself as you inch along.

WISDOM to know the difference—There is a wide discrepancy between what you can change and what you can’t.  One thing that can’t be changed is that going back to your lost job.  Take the memories and skills and move on.  Leaving that job in the past is a decision that has to be made and accomplished.  (There are a variety ways to do this.  The Job Loss Recovery Program© by Lynn Johnson, Ph.D. is an ideal way.)   

Your attitude is a powerful way to start the change.  Give yourself the gift of looking at your job loss as an opportunity to reinvent you.  A chance to do what you love and enjoy; to do what you have always wanted to do but couldn’t because you did the job someone else wanted you to do.  Now is your time to be what you have always wanted to be.  The opportunities are as endless as your dreams.  All you have to do is do it.  It may take some training, but you have the time without giving up your secure job with benefits.  You need wisdom to take what you have accomplished and make it into something that makes you happy to go to work every day.

This holiday season is your chance to become who you want to be.  Take some time to think about what you honestly want in a new job.  Find out what you will need to do it and go for it.  You have it within you; all you have to do is give yourself the serenity, the courage and the wisdom to do it. It will be the best gift you receive and benefit you for a long time.

 

 

 

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Holiday Job Search Myths—Busted!

November 22, 2013 | Author: Arleen Bradley

Santa Claus in Sleigh

The holidays are filled with myths.  One man can deliver toys to every child in the world in one night with flying reindeer.  A snowman that can walk, talk and sing just the same as you and me.  An elf that sits on a shelf in your home that keeps children in line.  These myths are believed by children.  But adults believe in other myths.  Job searchers, for example, believe that the holiday season is the time to put the job search on hold until the New Year.

There isn’t anything further from the truth than the last 6 weeks of the year are the worst for job searchers.  In fact, yesterday I talked to a woman getting ready for an interview and a man who was sent a job description and encouraged to apply.  If the hiring myth were true, neither of these two people would be working on interview and resume skills.

The truth is you are as likely to get hired at this time as any other time of the year.  Let me show you:

No one hires during the holiday season.       

Yes they do. 

  1. Openings need to be filled to complete staffing requirements.
  2. Managers want a complete staff ready to hit the ground running at the first of the New Year. 
  3. Some companies have fiscal years that coincide with the calendar year.  If they don’t fill their staff, they could lose the position.
  4. Headhunters are motivated to get their bonuses.  Positions that they haven’t been working will suddenly become their number 1 priority.

No one is around so getting an interview is difficult.          

Part of that is true. 

Not everyone is in every day.  So setting up an interview is difficult. You may have to go in several times and/or at odd times to accommodate the schedules.  But flexibility on your part could get you the job instead of someone who only wants a perfect interview schedule.

People aren’t available during the holidays.  

Again only partially true.

  1. The company still has to conduct business.  So people are around.  The good news is that the gatekeeper may not be around, resulting in the hiring manager may be answer their own phone or a temp worker who doesn’t know the policies may put your through.
  2. Trade shows are over, out of town traveling is over, so the people you want to see may be available.
  3. Mangers are tying loose ends before the end of the year.  And they are reviewing plans for the New Year. 

The best thing you can do is take advantage of the fact that many people believe these myths and stop their job search.  So while your competition is taking the holiday off, stay on course, be flexible and don’t give up.  You will have a job in the New Year while the others are dusting off their resumes.

 

How can I help you in your job search?

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Looking for a Non Retail Seasonal Job?

November 20, 2013 | Author: Arleen Bradley

seasonal job

It’s that time again; the holiday season.  For some job searchers, it means time off from the job search.  But the wisest job searchers know that the holiday season is just as good as any other time to be successful in the job search.

Yesterday, I provided information about seasonal retail jobs.   However if retail doesn’t interest you, there are plenty of other choices.  Here are some common and unique seasonal jobs. 

  1. Mall Santa—if you like children, then this is for you.  However, you may be asked to bring your own suit.  Some children will love you, others will fear you. 
  2. DJ—many people and companies give holiday parties.  Whether in private homes, restaurants, or function halls, no holiday party would complete without music.  People who DJ for a living are booked months in advance, so the jobs you get may be with little notice.  Digital music requires less equipment than vinyl records.  A computer loaded with party and holiday music, and speakers and you are set to go. 
  3. Catering/Waitstaff—if you can cook what people like, and it’s delicious you can make money.  Can’t cook, but you can serve food and help clean up, you also have a job.  Check with several catering companies and submit your name for seasonal help.  Or spread the word among friends and family.
  4. Electronic Whiz—if you know you way around a computer, tablet, or can set up a flat screen TV with surround sound; you will be in demand usually after people receive these coveted gifts.   Often people buy these gifts for people who have no idea how to set up or use.  Let friends and family know that you can set up or teach how to use electronic gifts and ask them to spread the word.
  5. Temporary career work—employees using up their vacation time leave a hole in the department staff.  Some companies hire temporary workers to fill the gaps.  Use this opportunity to shine and show the manager the value you bring to the company.  They may not want to let you go and be able to find a spot for you. 
  6. Personal assistant—some people are too busy for the holidays.  They need someone to shop for them, wrap gifts, write holiday cards, organize private parties, and/or run errands.  These are tasks you can do for them.  You have the time to be able to do these tasks.  It’s a terrific way to get yourself known and what a talented worker you are to people who have connections.
  7. Photographer—if you have a camera and patience you could photograph pets and children.  A little imagination for unique shots and patience with fidgeting children and finicky pets will bring you many opportunities to network with others.
  8. Holiday decorator—decorate homes either indoors or outdoors, people will pay other people to put their decorations and put them away after the holiday season.  When you talk to one client, ask if their neighbors would be interested in your services. 

These are only a few of the things you can do to make some money over the holidays.  With a little imagination,  you can think of what you can do for others.  You will be making money and networking at the same time.

How can I help you in your job search?

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A Quick Win for Your Holiday Job Search

November 19, 2013 | Author: Arleen Bradley
Seasonal retail customer service jobs are great for extra income.

Seasonal retail customer service jobs are great for extra income.

It’s that time again; the holiday season.  For some job searchers,  it means time off from the job search.  But the wisest job searchers know that the holiday season is as good as any other time to be successful in the job search.

For the next few weeks, this blog will focus on your holiday job search. I will be sharing information about how to use holiday gatherings as networking events; how to stay sane during this stressful time; how and why you should continue your job search and more.   

Today, I will give information about seasonal jobs.   This is a time when many people hire temporary help for the season.  Most of the seasonal jobs are retail or mall related.  If you are wondering why I would start with this topic, it is because there is still time to find a retail sales or related job before Black Friday.

One of most popular jobs is retail sales.  Stores hire seasonal employees to cater to the increase in sales and store hours.  In addition to having people on the sales floor to help customers, there is a need for people to fill shelves, greet customers, or wrap gifts.

If you are interested in a retail job, finding one is easy.  Stop by any store you’re in interested in.  Most all types of stores are hiring so whether you are interested in fashion, electronics, or any other specialty there is a retail job for you.  Working at a store that you enjoy shopping in will make the experience at least something you are comfortable with.  You will know and understand the product line.

In addition to the extra money, there are benefits from working a retail seasonal job.  Benefits from working a retail job include an employee discount.  Most stores offer their employees a percentage off for the items they buy.  Hopefully, the people on your list will appreciate the products sold at the store.  You will meet many people.  People you might be able to connect with after the holidays.   The next customer you help maybe someone you know.  Working will also help build up your self-esteem and confidence.  That will help after the holidays when you continue your job search.

Of course, there are downsides.  Your feet may not like you at the end of your shift.  And the shifts maybe nights and weekends, so your time will be limited.  But it’s only for a short time unless you are one of the lucky ones who will be asked to stay off after the holiday season is over.

Before you apply for any job, research the company to see what their policies and procedures are.  Talk to current or former employees; look at their website, and do an internet search.  I have done retail

work for many years and have enjoyed working with customers.  The companies I have worked for treat their employees fairly and with respect.   If you are collecting unemployment benefits, check to see what the restrictions are.

My next blog will deal with non-retail temporary seasonal jobs.  Some you will expect, others are somewhat unique. 

How can I help you in your job search?

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How regain your focus and get back to your job search.

November 9, 2013 | Author: Arleen Bradley

 

Getting unstuck will help you succeed.

Getting unstuck will help you succeed.

Yesterday I wrote about fears you may have about returning to work and how they are holding you back from a successful job search.  Your fears are sabotaging your efforts You may find reasons not to network, to apply for jobs, think you resume isn’t good enough or know what you want to do.  While it is normal and natural to feel this way, it won’t get you a job.  You have to change your mindset to get unstuck and move forward.

Here are 10 ways you can overcome your fear.

  1. Understand this is normal and natural.  Once you admit you have these feelings, you can start working on them.  Realizing you aren’t the only one will help you feel better just by knowing you aren’t unusual.  If you have trouble getting over the feelings are they interfere with other parts of your life, get professional help
  2. You have had challenges before, but you overcame them.  Remember what you did to solve them and how good it felt when you did.  Life is full of ups and downs.  Now is the time to think of the good times.
  3. Keep up-to-date with skills by taking classes, reading trade publications, attending professional society meetings.  You have the time follow the latest news.  Set up Google Alerts for the newest information.
  4. Use your skills by volunteering.  There are many organizations that need help but don’t have the money to get them.  You will be helping them out while helping yourself.
  5. Understand that the economy is still recovering and things happen.  Companies grow and shrink according to demand for their products and services.  Many times they hire temporary  workers  to accommodate these fluctuations.
  6. Remember that newbies are given time to adjust.  Even if they expect you to hit the ground running, they will allow you time to get to know them and the company. 
  7. Stand up straight, hold your head high, and smile.  You have plenty to offer, and the right company is going to see you for the value you offer.  Don’t give up.
  8. Find one or a few people who you can share your feelings with.  They should be willing to push your out of your zone and encourage you when your spirits are sagging.
  9. You are what you think.  Think of all the positive things put negative thoughts out of your mind as soon as you get them.  Think positive and positive will happen.
  10. Cope with the stress by exercising, healthy eating,  getting the proper amount of rest, look to your higher power, connect with others socially. 

Yes, you have had a tough time, but there is nothing you can’t do.  Get your control of your mindset and you will see yourself successful.

 

How can I help you in your job search?

Image:  Freedigitalphotos.net  Stuart Miles

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