tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064443820490853442024-03-13T05:57:55.149-07:00It's In The AttitudeA complex mental state involving beliefs and feelings and values and dispositions to act in certain ways; "he had the attitude that work was fun"Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-13218601937169922132013-05-21T13:28:00.002-07:002013-05-22T10:45:49.732-07:00Is The Ability for Total Recall THAT important?<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">It’s really not whom
you know, you still have to back it up with what you know. I have come to understand this in my
struggling search for a job opportunity.
The client only cares about
NOW. What is it NOW that you bring
to the table, which will provide immediate gratification to the position? I won’t go into the fact that many
interviewers lack the skill for assessing an individuals ability, that’s a
whole ‘nuther can o’ beans. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f2q3D93L5YQ/UZvYOnGLC8I/AAAAAAAANDc/EwmQSA_1nRg/s1600/memorizing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f2q3D93L5YQ/UZvYOnGLC8I/AAAAAAAANDc/EwmQSA_1nRg/s320/memorizing.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Your previous role
activities and tasks are only relevant in getting the foot in the door. They are not relevant to the immediate
questioning or discussion if one is, like me, challenged when questions revolve
around “how to” produce, execute, or tackle a specific operation/action on the
spot. Unless you are applying for
a “mission critical role” i.e. ER medical practitioner, Airline Pilot, Police,
Firefighter, Soldier etc., memorization should not be a requirement. We’re in an age of <i>digital referencing</i>. The tool used to guide our minds when <i>total-recall</i> is not firing. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">I reference
almost everything. If individuals
could recall with absolute regularity the broad spectrum of knowledge for their
jobs, companies wouldn’t need policy/procedures/work instructions, would they? They could just instruct and let people
go on their way to complete the assignments/actions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Maybe someone
will recognize this fact and let people such as myself beyond the door to prove
what I have proven throughout my successful career, that when given the
opportunity I can succeed and make them look good in the process.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">So, it’s
more than <i>total recall</i> but, like in college, where can I go to get the information to complete the action(s)? </span><span style="color: #131313; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">“Never memorize something that you
can look up.”</span><span style="color: #131313; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">―</span><span style="color: #131313; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"> <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9810.Albert_Einstein"><span style="color: #535503; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Albert Einstein</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--EndFragment--><br />
<!--EndFragment-->Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-30471620996272742852013-03-14T17:17:00.002-07:002013-03-14T17:17:10.770-07:00The Family Manager & Economist or The Motivation for Hiring the HouseWife<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6-dHJ4oEPy4/UGNfRx76l8I/AAAAAAAALK0/-jvwIb4LZnc/s1600/telescope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6-dHJ4oEPy4/UGNfRx76l8I/AAAAAAAALK0/-jvwIb4LZnc/s200/telescope.jpg" width="200" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The three
previous companies under my tenure have offered me a better perspective of a
talent, I believe, overlooked by many headhunters or human resource teams
during job hiring, the background, talent and power of the "housewife” aka
Home Economist. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Yes, you've heard this before but being
married to such an individual offers a more close comparative view of the
talents within.</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> I am going
to use my wife as an example of how these remarkable significant-others hold
the key to many missed opportunities the work force is seeking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Many such women want to be elevated and
recognized for these unnoticed talents, superior to many entering the
mainstream of business in general (especially what I have personally witnessed
at state government facilities).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">I am daily illuminated by Marie's ability to
comprehend corporate "day to day" activities discussed when she asks
me, "How was your day?” She actually understands, in most
discussions, and comprehends the issue plaguing me better than most of my
peers. She too has the ability to motivate. You know those little
tid-bits like " That's never stopped you before", "You always
had that ability" or " What's keeping you from doing it?" etc. Did
I just hear a Leader a Manager? Yep!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Some of the discussions surrounding frustrations
within my work processes do pose a comprehension hiccup but, by the end of the
discussion she comes away knowledgeable and amazed on how people
react or not in executing decisions or activities. With that said, its
little best-in-class activities that would amaze many hiring personnel. The
same back-office support i.e. budgeting/financial they require is very
comparable to Maries household activities she executes daily like payables,
check reconciliation, filing etc. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">These interchangeable corporate talents, many
homemakers-economists have, are unsung and unnoticed when they finally make an
attempt to place themselves in a temporary/short-term career. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> They ARE already corporate readied, in
most cases, for back-office activities and have the ability to
listen, manage and lead if you just get over the fact that they haven't worked
for a long while due to raising a family.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Don't let such individuals go unnoticed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-7588027558357309702012-08-03T14:20:00.001-07:002012-08-03T14:20:10.567-07:00Face to Face. Where did it go?<style>@font-face {
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JRPjukRl7Ms/UBxATS9AR7I/AAAAAAAAK-o/SWnLVv66RnM/s1600/face2face" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JRPjukRl7Ms/UBxATS9AR7I/AAAAAAAAK-o/SWnLVv66RnM/s1600/face2face" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0.1pt 0in;">
It
continues to amaze me, those seeking job opportunities, will never really
benefit from the ever-changing technology. </div>
<div style="margin: 0.1pt 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0.1pt 0in;">
Although a rhetorical question, What
ever happened to old school method of someone greeting you from the job
opportunity company's HR and a representative from the requesting department spending
at least 15 minutes with you? </div>
<div style="margin: 0.1pt 0in;">
I
know, I know, we have recruiters and website software that supposedly
interprets our resumes. But really, unless that recruiter "knows" you
or the software really interrogates/comprehends the resume contents, I don't
have faith that a large portion of the job seekers will successfully benefit
from this technology devoid of face-to-face/human contact.</div>
<div style="margin: 0.1pt 0in;">
There
was a time around the late 80's that many companies suggested that
marketing/sales correspondence needed to be limited and face-to-face was really
the only way to maintain a relationship. So, this is what I am suggesting
to HR and recruiters get a face-to-face. No not a telephone interview.
face-to-face. It’s hard to gain any perspective of how an interviewer is
reacting without eye-to-eye contact. Many would agree. </div>
<div style="margin: 0.1pt 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0.1pt 0in;">
Sure,
there will be many who suggest the telephone is a quicker method to limit
candidacy consideration but I would too say this. My Manager chose me based
on about 40% of what was in the resume, the deciding factor was based on
a face-to-face. He said he knew no one walks into most positions and
immediately provides the required bullets form the job posting. Why?,
because it goes back to story of the manager asking the employee to bring
him a rock. The employee brought a rock. The manager said, "that
is not the rock I wanted". </div>
<div style="margin: 0.1pt 0in;">
It takes management a period of time
(short or long) to mold the individual to there expectation. I too
believe many would agree with this excluding such positions in medical, Fire & Police, engineering etc. Professional Services and others are ones that take shape.</div>
<div style="margin: 0.1pt 0in;">
Maybe
some day we’ll see the return of face-to-face at many levels during the
consideration process.</div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-2311742592944222832011-08-14T18:56:00.000-07:002012-09-26T12:44:44.233-07:00It's a Matter of Time<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hNKHVcAoPaM/Tk_wV_YqS3I/AAAAAAAAJbM/Z6sb1Idn2Q4/s1600/Final_attitude_logo_small3.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642993118701308786" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hNKHVcAoPaM/Tk_wV_YqS3I/AAAAAAAAJbM/Z6sb1Idn2Q4/s200/Final_attitude_logo_small3.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 165px; margin: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 200px;" /></a>
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Finally back to some normalcy. Here are my long overdue thoughts of the past several years of struggle and success.</div>
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Much has occurred over my tenure in corporate business that makes me look back with a perspective of illumination. I am at my 4th company and . realize, whether through fate or prayers, I have found myself. A lot has happened, as you can tell from my previous writings, that makes me realize there is good management and peers and there is complacent management and peers.</div>
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It seems that in my 1st decade of business I had found individuals willing to provide guidance and support in my personal and group/team success. The following years left gaps of lack of confidence, no personal commitment of peers for the success of the whole, willingness to sacrifice and most importantly poor management/team mentoring. There is no blame here and if anything, my error for ignoring the signs.</div>
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I have come to a point in my life that success and salary (award) don't always coincide. In fact, the interesting part to this story occurs on the day I was interviewed for my current position. </div>
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Following the interview, the interviewer made a salary offer. I said I would think about it and left. On my way home, I telephoned my wife, as I wasn't exactly sure but was confident the new job was more of a lateral opportunity and salary was not the important goal to accepting the job. I wanted to make sure I wasn't stepping backwards from where I was leaving, which wasn't saying much. I asked my wife could she look at my last pay stub and let me know my annual salary. She told me and I told her the offer. It was, as we both thought, a lateral move in salary but a role I felt brought value-add to not only company but myself. By that evening, after discussing further with my wife, I accepted the job offer.</div>
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Well, weeks went by and my first check arrived. It was an auto-deposit. Marie had been reviewing the bank account when she telephoned me. She said, " Do you remember when I looked up your salary for the interview offer?". I replied, "Yes." She said, "I am so sorry but, I inadvertently selected an earlier check stub before you got a good raise and you are making several thousand less now. Will that bother you?". I'll tell you my answer in a moment as herein is the reason I write.</div>
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I had been at the new company less than a month and knew within a week this was like no other organization or management I had ever experienced. Teamwork; I mean honest to goodness teamwork. Not one mention of "It's not my job". Some absolutes but with offerings of what can I do to help, acknowledgments of work well done and discussions of activities bringing value-add to the department. Where there was doubt or proof of no value-add, the activity was dropped like a hot potato. I was coming home from work with a smile and a disposition I had not felt in years. Although, I would like to have a 9-5 job, the earlier hours didn't cause any further distress. I was happy, as the people I worked with were happy.</div>
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So I replied to my wife, "If it doesn't significantly impact our financial stability immediately and there is, I am sure, a chance to recover lost salary within 18 month, than no, less pay doesn't bother me".</div>
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People and attitudes are everything.</div>
Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-55209504300774581672011-04-03T12:22:00.000-07:002011-04-03T12:40:04.538-07:00Baby-Boomers: America's New Unemployable<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xmgS7b_fblo/TZjM-F5nunI/AAAAAAAAJM8/ZJVqO2xhmSw/s1600/Unemployed.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 189px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xmgS7b_fblo/TZjM-F5nunI/AAAAAAAAJM8/ZJVqO2xhmSw/s200/Unemployed.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591444304488282738" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">This is a recap many of you should check out regarding CBS Sunday Morning report on the jobless, in particular, how the Baby-boomers have been affected.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri; "><a href="http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2011/04/03/sunday/main20050117.shtml?tag=strip"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2011/04/03/sunday/main20050117.shtml?tag=strip</span></a></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></o:p></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Calibri;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">My letter to CBS Sunday Morning-</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></o:p></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Calibri;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Charles,</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></o:p></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Calibri;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Thank you. There was no doubt discrimination was playing a very large role in this shameful economic situation. Finally, Sunday Morning's all too brief vignette of the jobless tragedy occurring within my generation of Baby-boomers was long overdue. I too was in the category of the unemployed but was lucky enough that a previous customer ended up hiring me at entry level salary, grateful for the opportunity to work again after being unemployed for almost 12 months having held a position at a medium size company for 36 years before being laid-off.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It was scary. I had submitted over 481 resumes to open positions, with only 3 interviews before I was blessed with my current opportunity. My wife and I knew the dates used within my resumes were the cause and effect of any consideration. Unfortunately, recruiters and HR personnel seem to be the ones contributing to the discrimination. There was a moment during the job search process that my wife and I wanted to get a lawyer for a class action suit of age-discrimination but knew it was fruitless.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I do understand that "value-add" is the bottom line consideration for any hiring organization but, also understand that many of the unemployed Baby-boomers can walk in the door of most companies and provide this kind of contribution immediately, where many college graduates (little or no previous working history) would stumble for longer periods before any recognized value.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Thank you for opening the eyes of many to this horrific hiring practice on the part of many companies and hiring firms.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">You (CBS) need to re-run this Sunday Morning piece again very soon.</span></span><span style="mso-ascii-theme-font:major-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latinfont-family:Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment--> </span>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-70212022538193713082011-03-05T21:17:00.000-08:002011-03-06T15:28:04.160-08:00What do you want from the job?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LNlGCIC6ODU/TXMcX_zGEWI/AAAAAAAAJM0/ZDcvO2ecNSc/s1600/help.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 110px; height: 96px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LNlGCIC6ODU/TXMcX_zGEWI/AAAAAAAAJM0/ZDcvO2ecNSc/s200/help.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580835561830486370" /></a><p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The most popular question posed for working and non-working.</span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Helvetica;font-size:130%;"><p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">As members of the human race we should look beyond our own personal needs/wants. This is a time of selfless giving and if possible providing to those you have not. I know there are many who have been out of work for significant amount of time and struggling just to have some form of dignity. But, if the question is posed as a personal question, then here is what I want:</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I want a job where I can share and contribute with other peers and enjoy the camaraderie of achieving the same goal: the success of the company/department vision. Having been one of the few lucky ones to land a job after losing one of 36 years, I have witnessed several employees work in fear and stress of others within the company. I provide internal customer support/service to about 130 people at a specific office. I spend about an average of 3 hours a day in traffic to end up like several who walk in fear because of a few individuals. I treat my peers the way I would like to be treated. You'd think this is a shared perspective but I have observed that if I treated my peers the way that some within the company do, I would be disrespected. Yes, of course there will be times of some discontent and the receiving person will not be pleased with the support or solution provided. It’s the attitude of superiority, with warden like behavior, as opposed to one of fellowship and cooperation that can ultimately doom any organization. It's easy to tear down someone but much harder to help build them.</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">What do you want from the job? Cooperation, sharing and mentoring: the ultimate success to any company/team environment is how it is built and maintained.</span></span></span></p> <!--EndFragment--> </span><p></p> <!--EndFragment-->Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-81261951969119918152010-11-22T09:34:00.000-08:002012-07-19T08:01:28.229-07:00Unconditional Patience<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/TPbQrEp1noI/AAAAAAAAJF8/5Mwk3fXaBrY/s1600/hands.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545849429555519106" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/TPbQrEp1noI/AAAAAAAAJF8/5Mwk3fXaBrY/s200/hands.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 133px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
I am very late in writing this as I have been for most of my blogs.I write this piece in hope many might pass this along to others who might benefit from a first hand account of one who most certainly praises those "unconditional patient" individuals and their perseverance in the face of personal delays.<br />
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I recently was forced to take a 30-day medical leave to surgically correct a major physical issue. This required a 3-hour medical procedure followed up with an anticipated 90-day recovery. The first 30 days is mostly bed/house confinement with a significant amount of P/T in just 4 weeks in order to return back to work quickly. I have been <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">privileged with </span>unconditional patience from a caring and cooperative family and friends. It forces me to really be dependent on many to do the most mundane tasks because I cannot, from helping me dress, tying my shoes or to just listening to me whine about my temporary handicap. These tasks leave me feeling helpless but identifies those willing and unconditionally to interrupt their daily activities to ensure I can maintain my sanity. I found myself literally weeping (actually outright crying) a couple of times because of a character flaw, fear of asking for help and what I perceived as weakness.<br />
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I believed I can conquer anything. We see how may handicap individuals conquered greater challenges then mine. I can do this too. Many handicap individuals will never complain rather, they just do it. What I never really thought about were all the individuals who contributed to this person's success and recovery without merit. The Contributors didn't need to be the ones who said, ' he/she couldn't do it without me'. They did it so the person can see/believe in the accomplishment at the end.</div>
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"Unconditional patience" from all (most importantly my wife Mo) has lead me to observe other aspects of our lives missing this needed character trait. The willingness of others to unconditionally drop what they are doing to help in the success of another individual(s) without recognition/merit.</div>
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It is this fear I believe I conquered during this short period. I have experienced the necessity of others (not all) to berate, ridicule or point to weakness/flaws when asked for help. It was not enough for these self-centered people to just cooperate and give unconditionally. It is this self-centered person that has the attitude , WHY CAN'T THIS PERSON BE LIKE ME. I continue to observe this daily or hear from others who have.</div>
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It is evident we humble ourselves when asking for help. </div>
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It is a shame the receivers for such requests don't see the opportunity to cooperate.</div>
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</div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-18188337854856904752010-09-05T11:38:00.000-07:002010-09-06T16:24:03.252-07:00Slow Twitch People Working with Fast Twitch People<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/TIUJs5KwoZI/AAAAAAAAJEo/p_oDZrbxmlw/s1600/top_running.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 171px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/TIUJs5KwoZI/AAAAAAAAJEo/p_oDZrbxmlw/s200/top_running.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513823985649885586" /></a><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia;font-size:6;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;font-size:130%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:16px;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family:Georgia;font-size:16.0pt;">I apologize for the long over-due blog update. I can tell you, it certainly wasn't because I didn't want to write but rather, to find my free time from the new position I was offered. Unlike other Baby-Boomers who have succumbed to the economic crisis, I was blessed with an opportunity to get back to work, as I mentioned in earlier blogs, after a long productive career of 36 years with another major company who couldn't figure out how to use my value-add.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family:Georgia;font-size:16.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family:Georgia;font-size:16.0pt;">Working with *FAST-TWITCH people (FTP) can take its toll physically and spiritually as the Fast-Twitch members are certainly more secure in this business and technical expertise then **SLOW-TWITCH person (STP); primarily because the FTP's are in unfamiliar territory. In many cases the OJT is like someone trying to teach a person how to drive a car over the telephone. Pretty scary.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family:Georgia;font-size:16.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family:Georgia;font-size:16.0pt;">I see where issues such as this cause anxiety and feelings of in adequacy, yep, even to the extent of ulceration. This can be a hindrance to many FTP as they strive to be recognized for their performance providing <i>quick</i> solution turnaround within an arena of business that can only be considered a high-twitch environment.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family:Georgia;font-size:16.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family:Georgia;font-size:16.0pt;">All I am saying is, I think the FTP needs to realize there is a place for a STP in this world. Long, slow and steady has always been my philosophy. A cross-country team has a myriad of talent between STP and FTP members. I have let the FTP affect my attitude. I have let "them" control my feelings and behavior. Well, that's my next hurdle.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family:Georgia;font-size:16.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family:Georgia;font-size:16.0pt;">I am a STP. My previous successes can be attributed to integrity, character, mentoring from LONG, SLOW and STEADY performance. There is a place in every business/department that has, no requires STP people. Look behind you FTP, I am there to support you. We're a team. I am not here to beat anyone but myself.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family:Georgia;font-size:16.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family:Georgia;font-size:16.0pt;">By the way, I think the STPs say a lot in how they perform as can be attested from a recent publication: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/09/05/sunday/main6837469.shtml?tag=cbsnewsTwoColUpperPromoArea<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family:Georgia;font-size:16.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><i><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-Times New Roman"font-family:";font-size:16.0pt;">*Comes from the human muscle's ability to rapidly fire or best said determines if runners are suited for sprints. I use the term to represent tenured I/T individuals</span></i><span style="font-family:Georgia;mso-bidi-font-family:Georgia;font-size:16.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-Times New Roman"font-family:";font-size:16.0pt;">** Comes from the human muscle's ability to fire slowly or best said determines if runners are suited for long distances such a marathons. I use this term to represent entry-level or freshman.</span></i></p> <!--EndFragment-->Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-42118304784993659212010-06-05T13:09:00.000-07:002010-06-05T17:27:38.248-07:00It's Time for an Upgrade<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/TArqVRzcMAI/AAAAAAAAIr8/hSof8McovyY/s1600/Computer_time_to_upgrade.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 144px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/TArqVRzcMAI/AAAAAAAAIr8/hSof8McovyY/s200/Computer_time_to_upgrade.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479449547926941698" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Well, probation period is over and the background check complete with no skeletons in the attic. I'm thankful for the opportunity to be a part of a company that has and does contribute to a completely ignored but successful sustainable energy industry.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span> <div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I am involved in a current project to aid the company in capturing information/data from which to make more corporate economically sound decisions. This can only be achieved if we "upgrade" our train of thought. Yep, even me. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Upgrade:<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;">improvement, progress in development</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I can't understand how tenure people get caught up in their own </span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">capsulated</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> business world. They have operated a specific way and are "comfortable" with their own existence but fail to see the potential for passing on a legacy to those who could be there long after they choose to leave or retire.</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I have chosen to be part of a solution but rather a </span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">hindrance</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">. Chose to lead and improve rather then berate. I for one choose to upgrade my train of thought/action. I want to see success in a company with so much strength, breadth, knowledge and skill-set. There is so much potential to help lead others and ask HOW instead of WHY. How can I get THIS done instead of WHY should I get this done? Too, this is a time of collaboration. I time to ask "how can I implement a solution"?</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">If we, as leaders, also humble ourselves and become followers, at times, then the cascading affect will guide us all to success. The time is NOW for an </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">upgrade</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">. The time is NOW to act as a leader & a follower. Learn from our past and implement for the future leaving a legacy for those that follow.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I, for one, don't care to live in the past but rather share in the success of others by being part of a solution by upgrading myself.</span></div></div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-60396957154068983502010-04-28T18:37:00.000-07:002010-04-28T20:02:57.849-07:00The Entry Level: Humbling<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/S9j2yK5GxDI/AAAAAAAAIFE/pafhe6X_FDc/s1600/praying+man.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 154px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/S9j2yK5GxDI/AAAAAAAAIFE/pafhe6X_FDc/s200/praying+man.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465389489591862322" /></a><br />Even with 3 recruiters, job searching 4-5hrs a day and continuing on-line education 4-5 hours a day, didn't get me anything. I'm not saying that it didn't aid in my overall skill/knowledge set. I'm just saying that it looked pretty scarce. Well, it did came to pass. An ex-customer, working for another major Japanese company, had heard I was becoming desperate, called and offered me an "entry-level position". The statistics were correct. 80% of the jobs acquired come from people you know or are familiar with; the other 20% is from job hunting.<div>With that said, I must tell all who plan to take an <i>entry-level position</i>, it is a humbling one. My mentor was very patient, as I would expect, in taking me under his wing and showing me the ropes. The main problem was I kept getting tangled in these ropes. Thank goodness for taking good 'how to' notes. It's kinda like Hansel & Gretel, and the cookie crumbs. I was able to retrace and re-edit much of what was shown to create multi how-to guides making specific requests easier to execute.</div><div>I celebrate my 90 days in about 10 days, which is the end of my probation. I can comfortably say in those 90 days, <b><i>everything</i></b>, including the kitchen sink was thrown at me. I too would confirm, this <b><i>is</i></b> the way to learn. This practice had its drawbacks though. In the final 30 days, my mentor left the company, for greener pastures, which left me staring done the double-barrel of the most stress I think I had felt in years. In a week I lost 5lbs and have yet to gain them back. Truthfully, I can't afford that.</div><div>I am a little anxious on what waits around the corner since I had that double-barrel staring at me but, it's amazing what you can do if you side-step frequently. Still, it is a humbling period with great expectations and accomplishments. I can do it.</div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-28034997991157344512010-02-04T19:04:00.000-08:002010-02-04T20:27:49.057-08:00It Seems It Really Is Who You Know and Being Yourself<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/S2udLbc1wDI/AAAAAAAAHys/x5fNHmJcwiE/s1600-h/1269363444_affd9373de.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/S2udLbc1wDI/AAAAAAAAHys/x5fNHmJcwiE/s200/1269363444_affd9373de.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434610195025477682" /></a><br />I'm just saying, although my career has provided excellent opportunities to be recognized for skills/knowledge, it turns out it REALLY IS WHO YOU KNOW, or so it seems.<div><br /></div><div>Here I am at 437 applications which, averaged 1 interview per 100 applications registered. It seems that interview #5 was the ringer not only because of what I know but, the hiring Director was a previous customer I had known and respected for many years. Yes, too, I believe it was my skills/knowledge levels that got me through the HR interview but the Director recommended me.</div><div><br /></div><div>The career transition meetings I attended, Bridgebuilders, were correct; prepare yourself for standard interview questions but most importantly be relaxed and yourself. I walked away from the interview confident the crosstalk was comfortable and without pretense. Unless something comes up from the background check, I should be employed by February 8th.</div><div><br /></div><div>So what did I learn?</div><div><ol><li>Have your resume ironed out before applying (obviously).</li><li>Be dressed for success. This too means that you ask the interviewer what the proper dress for the day of the interview should be.</li><li>Be relaxed but showing proper business decorum and</li><li>BE YOURSELF (unless your interview is for an acting position and then just make sure you're playing the correct character).</li></ol></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-6300727702927365532010-01-10T12:48:00.001-08:002010-01-10T13:19:16.295-08:00Make Something from the Waiting Game<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/S0pDnY7yLhI/AAAAAAAAHu8/g1IQlx8V5AA/s1600-h/62_wait-718319.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/S0pDnY7yLhI/AAAAAAAAHu8/g1IQlx8V5AA/s200/62_wait-718319.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425223045108346386" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The beginning of the week brought on challenges again. It was as if the job market had closed its doors on all positions I've been looking for; little to no job alerts and little to no career sites postings. I suppose, I could sit and wait for a reaction to the 400+ applications I've registered since April 2009. What's the old saying? Oh yeah, 'Idle hands (mind) are the devils workshop'.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">I started taking on-line (eLearning) courses again (already finished 27) through my recruitment agency which offers a plethora of on-line courses to refresh or provide additional knowledge levels for many industries. It really assists on keeping my mind from wandering and wondering what's happening in the job transition world and aids or enhances my already <i>over-qualification </i>for many positions.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Funny, Marie said that I might be over doing it. She said if previous recruiters said <i>I was over-qualified</i> for several positions then, why keep taking these courses? I said, if potential companies turn me down because of over-qualification then, I probably didn't want to work for such a short sighted organization. To turn me down would be like a general contractor who turns down a carpenter because he happens to be an Architect. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">2 more courses completed this week. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" border-collapse: collapse; color: rgb(51, 0, 0); font-family:georgia, 'bookman old style', 'palatino linotype', 'book antiqua', palatino, 'trebuchet ms', helvetica, garamond, sans-serif, arial, verdana, 'avante garde', 'century gothic', 'comic sans ms', times, 'times new roman', serif;font-size:medium;"><i>You don't understand anything until you learn it more than one way. ~Marvin Minsky</i></span></span></div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-7390744787711530352009-12-19T15:42:00.000-08:002010-01-10T12:47:43.058-08:00The Struggle with Doubt<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/Sy1sPn54_gI/AAAAAAAAGtY/mpJQBY2w9dU/s1600-h/IS316-022.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 170px; height: 113px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/Sy1sPn54_gI/AAAAAAAAGtY/mpJQBY2w9dU/s200/IS316-022.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417104942462205442" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b><br /></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Today I was met with an invitation to provide a copy of my resume in hopes that I might have additional access to opportunities that have shown themselves. It was during a conversation that I was overheard, by wife that I was uncomfortable with the possibility the possible jobs may involve travel. True, through my tenure, I have experienced days and weeks on the road taking their toll physically and spiritually, rendering my current selection process to those careers opportunities allowing for a local corporate/company role. Selfish? In light of the fact I was only seeking non-travel positions, yes maybe. I was thinking more of self preservation. My wife, I believe, took it as a sign of pride. Another character trait I cannot afford at this time.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I previously had written "get over it" but the months are beginning to take a toll on my marriage. I perceived (no spoken words mind you) from this situation today, my understanding and supportive wife displaying signs of doubt. Doubt is probably one of the worst infectious enemies of the soul; </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Doubt, a status between unbelief and , involves certainty or undistrust or lack of sureness of an alleged fact, an action, a motive, or a decision ... . Doubt, was attempting to gain access to our relationship and throwing a temporary weight that I felt today. My intent, all along, was to provide the resume but, because I stated a distaste for possible travel, I introduced a character flaw that I am not proud of. </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Doubt has a brother despair. I love my wife with all my heart. I love my family, both extended and blood. No man plans for such thoughts to enter his domain but, if they do, both man and family must always remember what Cezar Chavez once said:</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3333FF;">“If w</span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b><a class="sqq" href="http://thinkexist.com/quotation/we-draw-our-strength-from-the-very-despair-in/1464169.html" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3333FF;">e draw our strengths from the very despair ( or doubt) in which we have been forced to live, we CAN endure</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3333FF;">" and will.</span></b></span></span></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">My love for wife and family will endure. I will regain new strength from this temporary setback and grow. God looks on those who help themselves, and too throw down the enemy of </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">doubt</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> and </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">despair</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I shall endure.</span></span></div></div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-64915429238162918052009-12-10T08:13:00.000-08:002009-12-10T09:25:40.602-08:00Faith; Life's Ultimate Ingredient<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SyEtvJImwvI/AAAAAAAAGtQ/apOU5DjYab0/s1600-h/Screen+shot+2009-12-10+at+9.16.38+AM.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 104px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SyEtvJImwvI/AAAAAAAAGtQ/apOU5DjYab0/s200/Screen+shot+2009-12-10+at+9.16.38+AM.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413658515005162226" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />I sit here this morning knowing that I am entering the 4th quarter as an unemployed worker. This of itself is not extremely upsetting but with the new year approaching quickly and no funds to contribute with family celebration(s) does dampen the spirit. But daily I am reminded how others have faced the economic disaster and struggles heaved onto them I can only think, 'There but for the grace of God, go I'.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">A friend, laid off at the same time, has lost his home and is in the middle of divorce. It sounds bad but I know because he was an ex-marine from Desert Storm, nothing could be worse. He has his health, the love of his daughter and faith of America to move forward through to economic recovery.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Faith; </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">belief that does not rest on logical proof or material evidence. Daily I am supported by my inspiring wife, friends and family, that faith will get anyone through any travesty. If we give in to doubt, the stepping stone to despair, we only invite in the conclusion, failure. No one has ever succeeded in life with such an anchor. It's through faith we scale life's walls that are temporarily obscuring our view.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><a class="sqq" href="http://thinkexist.com/quotation/keep-your-dreams-alive-understand-to-achieve/377245.html" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><i>Remember all things are possible for those who believe.</i></span></span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><i> </i></span></span><a class="sqq" href="http://thinkexist.com/quotation/keep-your-dreams-alive-understand-to-achieve/377245.html" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><i>Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. </i></span></span></span></a></span></div></div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-4262060045473469102009-12-01T15:12:00.000-08:002009-12-19T09:59:21.470-08:00Who's Watching the Lenders?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SxWmElzVATI/AAAAAAAAGso/UIm3EnZRLDQ/s1600/lender1.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 165px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SxWmElzVATI/AAAAAAAAGso/UIm3EnZRLDQ/s200/lender1.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410413125152604466" /></a><br />So this bailout was to have helped whom? Not us. As you have read, I have been out of a job (of 36+ years) for 9 months with only 2 nibbles (I cannot believe that I could work any harder to find work). So during the 1st several months we tried numerous contacts to the known lender M. Stanley to work with us in a pro-active role in obtaining a modified loan. Since they are not part of the Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac bail out, MS feels no need to assist. Basically it "sorry to hear about your crisis but it's not open for discussion" per MS contacts.<div><br /></div><div>What does it take? So whose watching these lenders sit back and suck up homes that foreclose? This is utterly madness. Ultimately this will cost lenders/banking institutions thousands of dollars more should the homes go into foreclosure. Why not take a supportive role in helping households achieve and maintain the "home owner status"? This will drive new customers to them in the long run as the LENDER WHO CARES. This is a WIN/WIN situation for all.</div><div><br /></div><div>What watch dog is out there for us? Certainly not the government under Obama. He keeps giving away our money to these pompous individuals and leaving the unemployed sinking further into despair (which by the way I refuse to sink to). Someone has to help. There is more of us then them. I have written numerous letters to my Government Representatives and President and will continue to voice my opinion and distaste for actions they have supported.</div><div><br /></div><div>We need to watch them and when the opportunity arises, take our monies away from them and find those institutions who cater to the citizens.</div><div><br /></div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-11205742080659537142009-11-24T14:01:00.001-08:002009-12-05T17:45:28.976-08:00Who Watches Over Your Garden?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/Swx1jFp2N-I/AAAAAAAAGfo/k01vLDYp0kA/s1600/gardener.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/Swx1jFp2N-I/AAAAAAAAGfo/k01vLDYp0kA/s200/gardener.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407826498238691298" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">I've noticed, over the years, changes that have occurred in the way I view myself. It has become more evident even coming from a family many viewed as the 'Nelson Family'. But as time moved from adolescence to adult it became more apparent that I, like others in the family, whether they want to admit it or recognize it, were dysfunctional in a functioning dysfunctional family. </span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">I am not letting anything out of the bag here. There is evidence in many of the siblings lives pointing to personal choices made based on perceptions we viewed or were subjected to from our parents. Even most recently, how our mother who recently experienced a stroke that has altered her personality (this information is based on many communiqués received and read from siblings over the last 6 months). Don't get me wrong, I, as with all my siblings love our parents with our whole hearts. They gave more spiritually and emotionally then most parents of our generation but, they also displayed manners that would be questionable if analyzed closely. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Many have seen noticed the subtle changes in our father over the years where he became more open to accepting a demonstrative actions (i.e. kissing on the cheek or hugging and whispering "I love you" in his ear). Mom, on the other hand, has demonstrated complete change in behavior and perception since her stroke earlier this year. Here is what I believe she is experiencing. She is rebelling. She is irritated and confused by how she is feeling, feelings that may have been repressed by a friend/husband that meant good but in his haste to be a provider and 'fix-it man' subjected her to his learned control behavior keeping her from doing things or experiencing things she otherwise would have done without him. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">I mention all this because little did we know we were all pretty dysfunctional and some made poor decisions in relationships/marriages. But through love of God, faith, laughter (at our selves) and the insight to share, we are all managing to spring new stringers (the long stems that shoot out from the major stem of a flowering plant) which ultimately can be trimmed producing new leaves and flowers if they are not already. We are the gardeners that have to look to God for his help. Like a good father, our Father (God), knows more then our father. God is the manager of the nursery and assists, not helps, us in tending to our gardens. Given the right tools He helps us in managing the problems we face and most importantly the choices we make.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">How will you tend to your garden? What choices will you make? Will you ignore signs that ultimately stagnate growth or will you take time to ask for help, find tools to make your garden grow? Who is your gardener?</span></span></div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-62851366748429381532009-11-18T12:59:00.001-08:002009-11-23T16:47:05.507-08:00Why the Anxiety?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SwRlWKqrQjI/AAAAAAAAGfA/4fNL3XV_52I/s1600/anxiety.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SwRlWKqrQjI/AAAAAAAAGfA/4fNL3XV_52I/s200/anxiety.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405556884246315570" /></a><br />I just completed my first 3-person interview. Frankly, I was expecting a firing squad of questions. It was about 7 questions. I spent 3 days studying the company profile, memorizing specific company financial statistics and the latest broadcast news. None of this information was ever asked. So why the anxiety? <div><br /></div><div>I continue to receive those email alerts from "<i>those professional job sites</i>" about what you should focus for interviews and frankly, they were about 90 degrees off.<div>The interviewers asked questions about experience and how I perceive myself professionally. Let's face it, if you don't know yourself by now then, yes, study and re-study by WRITING DOWN things about your previous positions like:</div><div><br /></div><div>What's your best working quality?</div><div> What's your least quality? and how can you improve?</div><div>What makes or does not make you a Team Leader?</div><div>What was the most challenging part of your last position?</div><div><br /></div><div>These are questions that you have to qualify without stumbling over yourself and should already reflect many parts the resume. I was comfortable. I had good eye contact with each individual in the group and I did not fidget during the question or answering. So why the anxiety? </div><div><br /></div><div>My son pointed out, "Dad, own the room when you walk in. Take control. You start off the conversation as soon as possible with the introduction and relaxing cross-table talk until everyone's ready, then pause, and hand it back to them"</div><div><br /></div><div>It worked. Now it's a waiting game.</div><div><br /></div></div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-1982003509961265732009-11-04T12:34:00.000-08:002009-11-04T12:58:11.363-08:00Alliance...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SvHpnT9fRzI/AAAAAAAAGeA/Ccmgh6bIcVc/s1600-h/alliance.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 178px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SvHpnT9fRzI/AAAAAAAAGeA/Ccmgh6bIcVc/s200/alliance.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400354289776281394" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SvHoqFf0DNI/AAAAAAAAGd4/eNCKYVk4P3g/s1600-h/alliance.gif"></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:small;">...a formal agreement establishing an association or alliance between nations or other groups to achieve a particular aim.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I have to honor myself before others. Why? (Rhetorical). Because, that would say they are more important then me regarding my needs vs. my wants.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I have an associate friend I said I would assist to advance his state-of-the-art internet tool in an effort to get much needed revenue and reference. Remuneration only provided on the actual sale of the product. No base salary relief. That's where I (and another) come in. Problem is, I do not consider myself a salesperson. I do not have the drive to adhere to some principle of getting my foot in a door. I am comfortable with 'soft' attempts where I plant a seed but, if the receiving individual shows no signs of interest, then I'm outta' there. Maybe that's why I wasn't very good at bartering at a garage sales. You either want it or you don't or you're willing to settle for just getting rid of the product. He fortunately has paid into this product dearly and is looking for help in the advancement.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">My friend wants to continue to drive me a bit but I am more focused on my career search then his product. Makes sense, right? I'll give when I can and continue to be true to myself.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The alliance is to myself for now.</span></span></div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-29569259504716654112009-10-26T07:58:00.000-07:002009-10-26T08:31:58.659-07:00Take A Chill Pill!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SuXA2L35_3I/AAAAAAAAGdY/J_vbRYacjD4/s1600-h/Chill_Pill.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 197px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SuXA2L35_3I/AAAAAAAAGdY/J_vbRYacjD4/s200/Chill_Pill.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396931765606154098" /></a><br />I received my last severance check over 2 weeks ago. It reminded me of the guy who said, " I wondered why that Frisbee kept getting bigger and bigger. Then it hit me." Sure enough the reality of no further severance pay took a chilling reality check on my brain. I immediately went into panic mode. I suggested to Marie we immediately contact our friend in real estate and get the housed listed for leasing. We jumped through hoops to ensure the house was readied for inspection in less then 72 hours. I took pictures taken to provide for the listing. We were readied to post it. Not satisfied with just our personal agents suggestion, we invited another real estate agent to provide us additional input. Now we have 2 different perspectives on what to do, what to do~! <div>It was again a reality check that 6 months had quickly passed and no job in sight. Since we were planning on vacating the house, we decided to invest in a laptop as we had no idea where we would end up. The chance we wouldn't have access to a desktop worried us so, off to the local store for a personal investment. </div><div>By chance, we bumped into a previous friend of mine working at another local company as CFO. After exchanging polite conversation, it turned to my unemployment. He insisted and additionally pointed out that we were not alone. Relax, stay calm were his very focused recommendations and re-review our finances more carefully to really determine if we can make it about another 60-90 days. He felt that economy was beginning to show signs it would turn in 2010. He said, "Chill for now". Then the next words came as a surprise. He said, "Give me a call next week to set up a visit. I'd like to introduce you to a couple of people". </div><div>On our way out of the store, I and Marie took a <i>chill pill</i>.</div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-76603410072639029582009-09-30T17:33:00.000-07:002009-10-11T17:18:29.102-07:00Hope for the Best<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SsP_S-8zz6I/AAAAAAAAGYk/n48HdKDZ6Gk/s1600-h/DSC_5890.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SsP_S-8zz6I/AAAAAAAAGYk/n48HdKDZ6Gk/s200/DSC_5890.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387430280866025378" /></a><br />Well the tide turned this week. Yep, I had my very first interview with a local company. The opportunity was a grand one that may have lead from temporary to employee but it just wasn't meant to be. I spent about 72 hours cramming for a myriad of possible questions that could be asked. I toiled over numerous adequate answers and ended with studying/typing out many good answers but to no avail.<div><br /></div><div>I was confident I did well. The interview ended with "we'll get back to you". We all linger in the purgatory "waiting for the telephone to ring". It's an arduous waiting game and when it rang it the message was delivered well. I didn't throw my hands up in the air. I didn't fall down on the floor and stamp my feet. I didn't go upstairs and curl up in a fetal position. I understood that someone had bested me. Hey, I know it happens. To possibly believe that NO ONE is better then yourself is just plain prideful. </div><div><br /></div><div><div>There is some chance that I'll lose heart but I'll keep right on looking. I've great skills and an indomitable and persevering spirit. I've dealt with other minor disappointments as some of my life's circumstances are illustrative of that but, you don't look back on interruptions. Your compass should be pointing true.</div><div><br /></div><div>I've moved on today. Its time for me to roll back the sleeves and see what else is out there (actually I never stopped) and find some additional every other day activities to improve my skill sets.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>It's all in the attitude.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-67977630893943909032009-09-19T12:30:00.000-07:002009-09-30T18:06:42.492-07:00I Feel Really Good About Myself<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SsQAY9upjJI/AAAAAAAAGYs/i4sAz69mmNQ/s1600-h/DSC_5164.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SsQAY9upjJI/AAAAAAAAGYs/i4sAz69mmNQ/s200/DSC_5164.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387431483129040018" /></a><br />Yep. I picked up the news paper this morning to read that California's Unemployment jumped yet again but it didn't matter after reading 3 other articles, that made me feel better about judgements made or decision making. Now, I admit the articles had nothing to do with unemployment or career opportunity but I felt much better about myself after reading the.<div><br /></div><div>In short;<div><br /></div><div>1. I have continued issue with the morons who actually believe OUTDOOR SMOKING SHOULD BE BANNED because of health and trash. Yes, smoking is bad...yaduh, yaduh, yaduh. It's published and known since the 50's - duh. It's a personal decision regarding health, stay out of smokers personal decisions PERIOD. Frankly, the non-smoker seated nearest you would have to be VERY CLOSE and privy DAILY/hourly to smoke intake. Highly improbably. Oh and by the way California has one of the highest obesity rates.</div><div>So let's focus on the other reason for the ban that really bothers me; it <b>produces trash</b>. This is why I believe morons supporting this and implementing the regulations need to be slapped along side the head. Every consumer product produces trash! Here is a thought-ENFORCE THE LITTER LAWS.</div><div><br /></div><div>2. A lawyer is looking to represent a "RAPIST-MURDERER" from a 2nd attempt at a lethal injection because ( note- 1st injection was a failure. The state could not locate a vein) , are you sitting down?, CRUEL AND UNUSUAL PUNISHMENT. </div><div>Someone get me a 2x4 so I can slap this lawyer (or for that matter any person) who would support such moronic effort. Did the rapist-murderer inflict cruel/unusual punishment to HIS victims? It isn't like we should turn a check on this one. Sorry. Shakespeare was right "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;font-family:Times;font-size:medium;">The first thing we do, let's kill all the lawyers</span>".</div><div><br /></div><div>3. Lastly, a CRIMINALLY INSANE KILLER escaped from a county fair. Yep, can you believe it? Let me make it more unbelievable. He was on a, gulp~!, <i>Field Trip</i>. Some mental-institute decision maker thought it would be a wonderful idea to take him (and others) on a field trip. I don't even know how to comment on this.</div><div><br /></div><div>So let me conclude. I may have made some poor judgements or decisions in my past or even most recently BUT, I sure am feeling good about myself today.</div><div><br /></div><div>BTW: if you care to leave a comment just register to the right. Really it won't kill you (you're not a lawyer :>) )</div><div><br /></div></div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-18183763093708605252009-09-18T08:25:00.000-07:002009-09-30T18:16:31.044-07:00Make The Time.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SsQC5rFNzfI/AAAAAAAAGY0/0GZ55GN5ppY/s1600-h/Marie+%26+Rory+-+02.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SsQC5rFNzfI/AAAAAAAAGY0/0GZ55GN5ppY/s200/Marie+%26+Rory+-+02.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387434244082355698" /></a><br />Sometimes during the career search process we forget about ourselves and others that share the unfortunate predicament with us. We forget that we still have responsibility to our self, family and home. <div><br /></div><div>We cannot forget that health, both spiritual and physical, still need to be maintained. That our spouse or significant-other (SO) still has to be acknowledged because its "just not about us". They are a significant contributor to our daily regime of career hunting. They help in maintaining a level-head when our self-esteem gets sidelined infrequently. We too should share how we're feeling and what we're seeing in our search for the elusive livelihood but refrain from being negative. Try, really try, to find the silver lining. I know. It's rough when that telephone just won't ring. But as Nike expressed; JUST DO IT.</div><div><br /></div><div>Make sure you find time to share with your spouse (SO). Communicate. Lean the conversation to them. Find out how they are feeling. What can you do to help contribute to beyond what you are already doing (ie- wash the car, rake, clean the house)? Share those home activities that you may have taken for granted. I have always been part of the home nucleus house-keeping. I know that its a mundane task but, I share in every aspect from my gloved hands in toilets to on my knees manually scrubbing floors. You still live there. It's just not about you.</div><div><br /></div><div>The intimate part is difficult because we are so mentally burden the last thing we're thinking about is intimacy. Take breaks through the week and go for a walk with your spouse (SO). Surprise them. Find that period when you know you won't be interrupted and fill the bathtub with soapy bubbles. If the budget can afford it, a glass of wine to sit back and either soak together or give them the time to "just be". Timing is everything. You don't have to answer the phone every time it rings; that's what voicemail is for. Ask a neighbor-friend if they can pick the kids up or take the kids to 'practice'. We have a responsibility to our spouses to show our intimacy which means "you may have to give" even if you're not ready. Focus on their needs. It will comeback around most assuredly.</div><div><br /></div><div>Find time for yourself too. I just picked up my 5th Recruiter. He was confident to point out that it's only about 15-20% of them that will locate a career for you. The rest is dependent on you networking. So how do I stay physically healthy if I need to network? Meet a friend(s) for a run, bike ride or if you still have the budget, a visit to the gym.</div><div>I maintain a weekly schedule for visiting the gym and am lucky enough that some friends and anonymous have paid for my cancelled membership 3 times. I am most blessed by their actions. This has provided me the haven for keeping fit and still networking, reaching out to several friends and acquaintances that have at least asked for my resume to pass along. It seems it's not what you know (although that will be a factor) but who you know.</div><div><br /></div><div> I didn't specifically mention the children only because ours either no longer live with us or are at college but, that does lead me to the point children still need your attention. If you have young ones, drop your adult side occasionally during the week and be a child with them. Set some time to 'play'. You'll be surprised what energy they can bring to you.</div><div><br /></div><div>I again woke-up this week feeling assured by my faith, things are getting better. Staying intimate with with my spouse and maintaining healthy body and spirit while ensuring that I respect my own personal needs but not overlooking the needs of others is my daily mantra.</div><div><br /></div><div>It's in the attitude.</div>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-44344128042528665692009-09-14T18:44:00.000-07:002009-10-11T17:20:47.100-07:00With Some Certainty - It Too Will Pass.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/StJ2V1kz-sI/AAAAAAAAGcM/wYXJh0JlvpY/s1600-h/grief.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 137px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/StJ2V1kz-sI/AAAAAAAAGcM/wYXJh0JlvpY/s200/grief.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391501821446716098" /></a><br />When I was laid off in April, I treated every day as though I were going to work. And I did. I was in a temporary career now looking for work. I didn't want to take any time off because it was important for my self esteem and family financials, that I procure work quickly.<br /><br />I had promised myself to <span style="font-style: italic;">GET OVER IT</span> (Great Eagle's song-lyrics). As with the death of someone close, everyone in some small or large way will go through 7 stages of grief. Yep, even with the loss of a job. Although the stages may be brief, even just a thought but, all do experience some form of each of these:<br /><br />1. SHOCK & DENIAL<br /> 2. PAIN & GUILT-<br />3. ANGER & BARGAINING<br /> 4. "DEPRESSION", REFLECTION, LONELINESS<br /> 5. THE UPWARD TURN<br /> 6. RECONSTRUCTION & WORKING THROUGH<br />7. ACCEPTANCE & HOPE (aka CLOSURE)<br /><br />Some take longer than others. Fortunately, I had closure quickly. I wanted it quickly. I wanted to put my best foot forward and show the world that I'm not steppin'-off.<br /><br />The closure doesn't make the financial situation any easier. The unemployment checks cover only about 80% of the mortgage and my wife Marie works but barely enough paycheck to cover all other expenses. She is a fitness trainer and feeling the economic crunch just as much as everyone else. And believe me, we are no where near an extravagant lifestyle BUT do have a very nice home, ergo, big mortgage. I say this because the biggest and hardest part is the financial bleakness that attempts to drag you down daily. I read somewhere the # 1 argument/altercation/issues among couples, or at least in the top 3 is FINANCE.<br /><br />We on the other hand don't argue about finance but some times bury our heads in our hands. We discuss and try to figure the next phase of "What if". It can drive you buggy. Marie (my wife) is unbelievable. She has a plan A,B,C all of which are excellent plans. She must be left-brain but tremendous ability to use the right-brain. She can also find the silver lining in anything. No really! I recall (but, I may be exaggerating) as we were taking the dog for a walk, I had noticed someone did not pick up after their dog. I was beside myself (btw, I think I've lost an inch in height. You notice things like that when your beside yourself). I said " I couldn't believe that someone let their dog crap in someone else's driveway and not clean it up." Well, Marie of course, calmed me down and said "But Honey, think how the dog felt." I finished the walked.<br /><br />You know, I dislike the end of summer days because frankly, I am a morning person. If the sun is up at 5:30am, I'm up. But recently the sunrise has occurred around 6:30a. I just haven't been jumping out of bed with any pep as I feel like I have been putting so much emphasis on procuring the job that I have forgotten to also enjoy my wife and family. I went down stairs, made coffee, kissed my wife when she came down and told her, with certainty, someones calling this week.<br /><br />I mentioned in the previous blog the phone would ring. Didn't I? Well, it did, 2 times. I returned the calls to find out that 2 companies want to speak to me.<br /><br />Okay, now it's time to get get my suit readied( and my head on straight).Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106444382049085344.post-19533911223173915272009-09-13T18:44:00.000-07:002009-09-30T18:19:02.121-07:00Persevere. Because We Can.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SsQDfhH6mZI/AAAAAAAAGY8/NDAZsHcV5aY/s1600-h/chimney.bmp"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 135px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0dST5iOppLc/SsQDfhH6mZI/AAAAAAAAGY8/NDAZsHcV5aY/s200/chimney.bmp" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387434894244354450" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-family:times new roman;">It was the morning of April 9, 2009. I had only arrived a short time ago to work when a Director, from another department, requested in a low voice that I attend a meeting in the conference room in 10 minutes. That same Director too walked over to the youngest tenure of my staff inviting him to same meeting. Strange, I thought, that a meeting be called on the quarter hour, on a Thursday; certainly not a SOP for our work week.<br /><br />I finished an email to a customer, sat back in my chair and pondered why this Director invited us to a meeting. A dark premonition crept into my imagination that many now a days have since seen and may continue to see for a while, LAYOFF. I took a deep breathe stood up and leaned over to one of my peers and said "I think there is a layoff today but it looks like there is only 2 of us involved from our department, think good thoughts."<br /><br />With that, I turned and walked to the meeting where upon I was sitting in a room with about 20 other members from various departments I normally don't interface with in regards to daily business. In walked the VP Sales who welcomed and apologized for the news he was presenting.<br /><br />There are those of you who have fallen prey to the economy and the "L" word that understand what followed next. I won't go into a diatribe of how poorly it was handled, how many had no indication it was coming and that Senior individuals responsible for this financial situation were not accountable but we all know the final outcome, reduction in workforce. Yes, those that actually produced were let go. A frightful and gut-wrenching episode still occurring with regularity through the U.S. After 36+ years with a "can-do" attitude for this company, I was identified as no longer needed and dismissed. We were provided supportive information regarding unemployment benefits, Cobra etc etc. and if anyone wanted to speak further they could take their personal case offline with the VP and General Consul.<br /><br />At that I stood, turned, asked for my special packet, walked to my desk but was unable to retrieve any personal contact information collected over the years on my pc. Truly a life time of info accumulated over 3 decades. The PC had been locked out. We were given the rest of the day to clean out our desks.<br /><br />I mention all of this because it was at that moment while looking at the PC I knew I had to leave with my head held high and a <span style="font-weight: bold;">positive attitude</span>. Many of my peers came to me with tears, regret and am sure thoughts of "there but by the grace of God go I". I thanked them all for their years of working together, friendship and that I would continue to keep in touch.<br /><br />Scary, after 36 years things have changed in the outside world. I knew, but never with the realization, that I would have to actually look for a job, when I had no job. I had at times over the years thought what it might be like with other companies and had placed my resume in several websites in hopes that someone would see what I had contributed to and offer the "job of a life time". Now <span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 16px; font-family:monospace, helvetica, clean, sans-serif;font-size:14px;">I am in the throes of</span> painstakingly reaching out at every opportunity in hopes that I can be recognized.<br /><br />I strive daily to keep a positive outlook while job-hunting. I have a wife that provides support daily giving me the silver-lining I need when things just aren't going right.<br />The world has changed, as I said, with creation of the "30 second sell yourself" resume. Phew~! All you need to be is a great journalist in order for someone to actually notice you. Some have the knack for this task and actually, from what I gather at looking at profiles posted all over the internet, jump from company to company in order to achieve that perfect profile. I'm not sure what happened to dedication, integrity and the love of the job. I suppose the world has changed.<br /><br />I am, as of today, September 13, 2009, still applying for the opportunities presenting themselves daily and know, no feel, that at any second that phone will ring.<br /><br />It will ring. I will persevere.<br /></span></span>Rory "Captain-Oh-Wow" O'Brienhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10662992925787505944noreply@blogger.com0