Tomorrow I am speaking with a recruiter for a talent acquisition position with Hershey's. At first I wasn't thrilled with the idea since the job is in Pennsylvania and second because it involved chocolate. Don't get me wrong, I love candy but chocolate is like my crack cocaine. I'm scared of it when it is in sight and available for consumption. But, as I read the job description, I guess it made sense to listen to the opportunity and assess after I have a clear idea about the role.
I have to admit though, today my mind was drifting to what it would be like for me to work at Hershey's. I immediately went to my point of reference Willy Wonka. I thought, wouldn't it be cool to have Oompa Loompas working for me? They could be my recruiters and provide feedback to the candidates with song and a powerful message. Oompa Loompa doopidee doo - I have another riddle for you - what do you do when you come in as candidate number two. We call you and send you a regret letter and say thank you.
OTHER STUFF
I went to the mall today to find an outfit for my daughter. It is Purim on Monday which is a Jewish Holiday where children dress up - similar to Halloween with whole different history. My daughter wants to be a Goth Chick. Now I am feeling old because I am not sure what the difference is between that and a vampire and a punker. So I went into a few stores trying to find her something that would make her look authentic and age appropriate (she is almost 8). I found a cute skull and cross bone locket and black boots. All I needed was a top or a dress she could wear that captures the goth essence.
I decided to try the Forever 21 Store. Now I don't know about you but stores with ages or limitations in the name bother me. It embarrasses me to go into Forever 21 when I am 43. Like I was forever 21 twice with an extra year thrown into it. I feel like I will be carded at the door. Sorry I digress...
I ended up finding sort of a slutty tattered shirt that will look like a dress on my beautiful daughter. I of course will have her wear leggings and a black long t-shirt under it. Let's hope she approves of my interpretation of goth. Maybe I will post a picture of the results. Let's hear it for hamantashen (a yummy triangle desset) and Purim!!
Realization -
I need to keep my mind open to all job opportunities and listen very carefully. I am sure Oompa Loompas do not work at Hershey's. Realization 2 - I know being old is an attitude not an age but, the Forever 21's of the world don't help forty something women's self esteem. Have a great weekend.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Day 44 - JOB OPPORTUNITIES POURING IN
BRRNG BRRNG
Due to a family emergency, I had to put my job search aside and run some errands. Wouldn't you know, the phone was ringing off the hook. There were so many calls that it was comical. Oportunities were everywhere and I had 5 messages on my phone.
There are days in my search that no one calls me. I sit waiting... trying to be productive and it is quiet and slow. It is like the world has kept on going and I am stuck in a time warp. The one day that I kind of don't care about the search, the whole world is beating down my door. Life is funny isn't it... I guess I should play hard to get all the time. The problem is that pretending doesn't equate to reality with this phenomenon.
BROCK - MY POSTER CHILD
Yesterday I told you that I am helping out a complete stranger in my job group land a position. He was very nice about receiving my feedback. I have a problem sometimes of not just holding my tongue. I especially am probably offensive since I have no employment or personal relationship with this guy. Just as I expected, Brock is sweet and we have been e-mailing one another back and forth like best friends. He actually has another interview next week too. It is apparent that his skill set is desireable - and his interview skills are not. Mark my words, Brock is getting a job soon - it is my personal mission. I am coaching him to market himself and keep his gift of gab to a minimum. Wish Brock and I luck ha ha ha...
REALIZATION
The Universe works in strange ways. It all goes back to the dating concept. Being too available and waiting - you never get a call. Be unattainable and disinterested - get the date and or the job. Realization two - putting good vibes in the world and helping others feels good and it helps with the laws of attraction. Help a stranger today!!!
Due to a family emergency, I had to put my job search aside and run some errands. Wouldn't you know, the phone was ringing off the hook. There were so many calls that it was comical. Oportunities were everywhere and I had 5 messages on my phone.
There are days in my search that no one calls me. I sit waiting... trying to be productive and it is quiet and slow. It is like the world has kept on going and I am stuck in a time warp. The one day that I kind of don't care about the search, the whole world is beating down my door. Life is funny isn't it... I guess I should play hard to get all the time. The problem is that pretending doesn't equate to reality with this phenomenon.
BROCK - MY POSTER CHILD
Yesterday I told you that I am helping out a complete stranger in my job group land a position. He was very nice about receiving my feedback. I have a problem sometimes of not just holding my tongue. I especially am probably offensive since I have no employment or personal relationship with this guy. Just as I expected, Brock is sweet and we have been e-mailing one another back and forth like best friends. He actually has another interview next week too. It is apparent that his skill set is desireable - and his interview skills are not. Mark my words, Brock is getting a job soon - it is my personal mission. I am coaching him to market himself and keep his gift of gab to a minimum. Wish Brock and I luck ha ha ha...
REALIZATION
The Universe works in strange ways. It all goes back to the dating concept. Being too available and waiting - you never get a call. Be unattainable and disinterested - get the date and or the job. Realization two - putting good vibes in the world and helping others feels good and it helps with the laws of attraction. Help a stranger today!!!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Day 43 - ARE YOU KIDDING ME??
JOB SUPPORT GROUP
Every Wednesday, I attend a job support group. Actually this was the second time for me. I was kind of excited in a lame way. I guess it gave me a reason to get dressed, hair and make-up and go somewhere. How sad for me? But it is kind of true. When I worked, I used to go to meetings and had a structured day. It is just weird not having somewhere specifically to go to during the workday. I digress once again... So I was a little pumped up because I thought there would be more people attending this team meeting and the subject topic of creative networking sucked me in.
So I get there with diet coke in hand ready to learn something and meet new people. Of course I was greeted by the same old team- Brock (the forensic auditor - who talks and talks with no end); Jim (the Intellectual Property and Quality Guy) and then my favorite guy, who I still do not remember his name(cultivates media- bacteria). The attendance was actually worse than the week before. The Consultant had sent out a harsh - you better come to the meeting e-mail and still no one came. I guess these meetings are not being taken seriously with the unemployed community.
We started the meeting with the creative marketing topic. To my dismay, this topic lasted 10 seconds when he handed out a two page article on creative networking. It was a bad one too. Some unemployed guy wrote it and just said that we should get up, work out, put on nice clothes and hang out in Starbucks and talk to strangers. It sounds like loitering to me but who am I to judge. Let's just say this was not what I expected. Shame on me to expect anything.
We then went around our circle to discuss progress. Once again we started with Brock who said he would take 3 minutes and he took about 30 minutes. Brock had an exciting opportunity that he was interviewing for next Tuesday and I decided it was time for me to step in. I am not sure if he is going to appreciate it but he needs me bad. I realized after my second meeting with him that he has no problem getting the interview but he blows it with his long winded stream of conscious communication style.
I sent Brock an e-mail with some candid feedback and some coaching assistance. Either he is going to really appreciate it or be totally offended - we will wait and see. Worse comes to worse, the outplacement group is changing our job support meeting day so I may have to go to another group. I hope is he OK with this - Peace and love, peace and love.
AHA MOMENT
I noticed that I am getting my professional confidence back. I started listening to some of the advice our counselor was saying and he was definitely off. Some of the activities outplacement counselors suggests is a total waste of time. Today's advice was for us to send LETTERS to target companies of interest. I know that letters never get opened or completely blown off. It almost makes the candidates look like they are not in tune with today's technology.
REALIZATION
I think my job support group is more about building my confidence to help others with their job search then for me to learn too much. But this is good because helping others comes back three folds to me. Realization two - I am getting my mojo back as I have reached a new level of confidence in my temporary status.
Every Wednesday, I attend a job support group. Actually this was the second time for me. I was kind of excited in a lame way. I guess it gave me a reason to get dressed, hair and make-up and go somewhere. How sad for me? But it is kind of true. When I worked, I used to go to meetings and had a structured day. It is just weird not having somewhere specifically to go to during the workday. I digress once again... So I was a little pumped up because I thought there would be more people attending this team meeting and the subject topic of creative networking sucked me in.
So I get there with diet coke in hand ready to learn something and meet new people. Of course I was greeted by the same old team- Brock (the forensic auditor - who talks and talks with no end); Jim (the Intellectual Property and Quality Guy) and then my favorite guy, who I still do not remember his name(cultivates media- bacteria). The attendance was actually worse than the week before. The Consultant had sent out a harsh - you better come to the meeting e-mail and still no one came. I guess these meetings are not being taken seriously with the unemployed community.
We started the meeting with the creative marketing topic. To my dismay, this topic lasted 10 seconds when he handed out a two page article on creative networking. It was a bad one too. Some unemployed guy wrote it and just said that we should get up, work out, put on nice clothes and hang out in Starbucks and talk to strangers. It sounds like loitering to me but who am I to judge. Let's just say this was not what I expected. Shame on me to expect anything.
We then went around our circle to discuss progress. Once again we started with Brock who said he would take 3 minutes and he took about 30 minutes. Brock had an exciting opportunity that he was interviewing for next Tuesday and I decided it was time for me to step in. I am not sure if he is going to appreciate it but he needs me bad. I realized after my second meeting with him that he has no problem getting the interview but he blows it with his long winded stream of conscious communication style.
I sent Brock an e-mail with some candid feedback and some coaching assistance. Either he is going to really appreciate it or be totally offended - we will wait and see. Worse comes to worse, the outplacement group is changing our job support meeting day so I may have to go to another group. I hope is he OK with this - Peace and love, peace and love.
AHA MOMENT
I noticed that I am getting my professional confidence back. I started listening to some of the advice our counselor was saying and he was definitely off. Some of the activities outplacement counselors suggests is a total waste of time. Today's advice was for us to send LETTERS to target companies of interest. I know that letters never get opened or completely blown off. It almost makes the candidates look like they are not in tune with today's technology.
REALIZATION
I think my job support group is more about building my confidence to help others with their job search then for me to learn too much. But this is good because helping others comes back three folds to me. Realization two - I am getting my mojo back as I have reached a new level of confidence in my temporary status.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Day 42 - PAPA CAN YOU HEAR ME
MEETING UNEMPLOYMENT CRITERIA
I think I know every job that is out there. They continue to resurface like a bad penny. I get so excited when my search agents identify new opportunities only to find out that these jobs are the same uninspiring circulation.
One of the criteria for unemployment payments are to make the job seeker fill out a sheet documenting three companies where contact was made for employment. I was embarrassed that I had already run out of my old standbys to put on this sheet. So, I began the on line application frenzy. I figured I never hear from them anyways.. Also it is an experiment to see if I get contacted about any of the roles.
As a Talent Acquisition professional, I am truly getting a very valuable perspective. I am so annoyed with websites that cannot parse my resume. So I upload it and then have to proceed in filing out all the same information in the boxes as contained in my resume. I think it is the company's cruel initiation trick to see how bad I want the position. I convince myself of this conspiracy - even though I know it is really a poorly designed applicant tracking system. I have to admit a secret, sometimes I play games and put bogus history or requirements in... as I said ... this is an experiment and it is my way of getting back in a non threatening way. I am so evil.... not really just ruining my chances at some companies. I only do it to those who have the continued recycled jobs.
JOB SUPPORT GROUP
Tomorrow I meet with my job support group and I received an agenda today. The team is getting serious about being prepared and attending meetings. I guess quite a few members blew it off last week. We are going to talk about creative networking.. I can only imagine what people are going to say. Hm mm... what is mine - I can't think of anything and I need a really good story - it is expected of me coming from human resources and talent acquisition ... yikes. I will let everyone know what I come up with when I think of something - mind is blank blank blank.... Buehler
BED,BATH AND BEYOND
As I discussed in my last blog post, I have started the DEEP CLEAN. Also as predicted, I am behind schedule as I was not motivated to clean room number two yet. I need to work on my long term commitment but that is another blog.
I did go to Bed,Bath and Beyond to find some organizing containers for the bathroom. I figured if they were anywhere, this was the store to find them. I also came geared with my thousands of coupons that were cut out and expired. I don't know if you are aware that you can basically get a discount on every item - BBB have no limits. So get over your embarrassment and bring them all in... I saved $25 from an original bill of $93. I throw those coupons out there with pride.
I need to be an inventor. I have noticed a little trend that I will be looking for something specific such as the proper under vanity storage system, the perfect knit dress or even at one point a corner desk and it is know where to be found. I then figure out a solution after much research. Then wouldn't you know it, two years later it is introduced all over the place. Happens all the time. I killed myself on finding a corner desk and had to settle for something else... now everywhere.. totally overexposed.
My current dilemma is that I have very deep cabinets in the bathroom and it is a struggle to find stuff. Therefore, we overbuy shampoo, shaving cream and saline solution only to discover a ton in the back of the vanity. I thought if I bought either a bin that rolls out or bins that are mesh, that would solve our problem. The problem is that none of these organizing bins are deep enough. It gives you enough space to organize like 2 things. These highly organized devices never can handle bulk and are a complete disappointment. There is no need to organize a small amount of stuff.. very frustrating.
I went to the register and the cashier looked like my papa. I never actually had one that was alive during my life but, he looked so sweet with his bright orange sweater, toupee, and cataract eyes. I instantly become sweet because I would have loved my papa and senior citizens tend to like to work in social atmospheres.
My dreams were shattered when papa did not return the love. He scolded me about the way I laid the items on the register and basically he had no time for me. He was not thrilled with all my coupons either. Papa reprimanded me and sent me packing....
REALIZATION
As I stated before, networking for positions is the key. I need to spend more time and effort on talking to people and getting leads that way. I better come prepared tomorrow to learn how to creatively network and spend the majority of my time on this activity as I will get a better return on time.
Realization 2 - Don't judge a book by it's cover, not all papas are happy to be working at Bed, Bath and Beyond.... poor papa.
I think I know every job that is out there. They continue to resurface like a bad penny. I get so excited when my search agents identify new opportunities only to find out that these jobs are the same uninspiring circulation.
One of the criteria for unemployment payments are to make the job seeker fill out a sheet documenting three companies where contact was made for employment. I was embarrassed that I had already run out of my old standbys to put on this sheet. So, I began the on line application frenzy. I figured I never hear from them anyways.. Also it is an experiment to see if I get contacted about any of the roles.
As a Talent Acquisition professional, I am truly getting a very valuable perspective. I am so annoyed with websites that cannot parse my resume. So I upload it and then have to proceed in filing out all the same information in the boxes as contained in my resume. I think it is the company's cruel initiation trick to see how bad I want the position. I convince myself of this conspiracy - even though I know it is really a poorly designed applicant tracking system. I have to admit a secret, sometimes I play games and put bogus history or requirements in... as I said ... this is an experiment and it is my way of getting back in a non threatening way. I am so evil.... not really just ruining my chances at some companies. I only do it to those who have the continued recycled jobs.
JOB SUPPORT GROUP
Tomorrow I meet with my job support group and I received an agenda today. The team is getting serious about being prepared and attending meetings. I guess quite a few members blew it off last week. We are going to talk about creative networking.. I can only imagine what people are going to say. Hm mm... what is mine - I can't think of anything and I need a really good story - it is expected of me coming from human resources and talent acquisition ... yikes. I will let everyone know what I come up with when I think of something - mind is blank blank blank.... Buehler
BED,BATH AND BEYOND
As I discussed in my last blog post, I have started the DEEP CLEAN. Also as predicted, I am behind schedule as I was not motivated to clean room number two yet. I need to work on my long term commitment but that is another blog.
I did go to Bed,Bath and Beyond to find some organizing containers for the bathroom. I figured if they were anywhere, this was the store to find them. I also came geared with my thousands of coupons that were cut out and expired. I don't know if you are aware that you can basically get a discount on every item - BBB have no limits. So get over your embarrassment and bring them all in... I saved $25 from an original bill of $93. I throw those coupons out there with pride.
I need to be an inventor. I have noticed a little trend that I will be looking for something specific such as the proper under vanity storage system, the perfect knit dress or even at one point a corner desk and it is know where to be found. I then figure out a solution after much research. Then wouldn't you know it, two years later it is introduced all over the place. Happens all the time. I killed myself on finding a corner desk and had to settle for something else... now everywhere.. totally overexposed.
My current dilemma is that I have very deep cabinets in the bathroom and it is a struggle to find stuff. Therefore, we overbuy shampoo, shaving cream and saline solution only to discover a ton in the back of the vanity. I thought if I bought either a bin that rolls out or bins that are mesh, that would solve our problem. The problem is that none of these organizing bins are deep enough. It gives you enough space to organize like 2 things. These highly organized devices never can handle bulk and are a complete disappointment. There is no need to organize a small amount of stuff.. very frustrating.
I went to the register and the cashier looked like my papa. I never actually had one that was alive during my life but, he looked so sweet with his bright orange sweater, toupee, and cataract eyes. I instantly become sweet because I would have loved my papa and senior citizens tend to like to work in social atmospheres.
My dreams were shattered when papa did not return the love. He scolded me about the way I laid the items on the register and basically he had no time for me. He was not thrilled with all my coupons either. Papa reprimanded me and sent me packing....
REALIZATION
As I stated before, networking for positions is the key. I need to spend more time and effort on talking to people and getting leads that way. I better come prepared tomorrow to learn how to creatively network and spend the majority of my time on this activity as I will get a better return on time.
Realization 2 - Don't judge a book by it's cover, not all papas are happy to be working at Bed, Bath and Beyond.... poor papa.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Day 41 - Heloise that's me
MY OFFICE
As I have been home, I am starting to notice that my house is surface clean but not really clean. For the last three weeks, every morning I am noticing a few dead ants on the floor. I also catch a few live ones here and there. I have this vision that there is a village of ants living in a corner of the house that I have not bothered to clean in a few years - Yikes. I believe the dead ones in the middle of the floor were the warriors that dared to venture out and take a risk. This image has consumed me so "conveniently" I have decided to go on the deep clean this week.
Now I was a Psychology major and I know exactly what I am doing --- that is avoiding finding a position. The thing is - it is so boring surfing the web for open positions. Noone ever replies to these submitals. Also, talking to people about finding a job is an equal drag. This element of not having control is manifesting this week into the DEEP CLEAN.
I started in my master bathroom. I turned on the dance pulsing music with hard pounding and went at years of scum. I washed the walls, cleaned the medicine cabinet, wiped the blinds, scrubbed the drawers and cabinets etc... It was so invigorating and also disgusting. When I go to a hotel, I get so grossed out with anything that looks like dirt and yet I live within it. It is funny how you don't notice things when they are right in front of your face.
Back to the psychology of this matter. I am clearly using cleaning as a way to control a situation and finish a project. I am hanging in limbo on three positions and there is nothing I can do to move them until next week... so I clean... I am so obvious - case book example of Psychology 101
REALIZATION<
I am sure I will get sick of cleaning in a day or two and will be back into the job search. Also, if I have to sell the house - at least it is clean. I can twist this into a proactive job search move. Realization - we all need to feel proud of our accomplishments and if it means to clean then so be it!!
As I have been home, I am starting to notice that my house is surface clean but not really clean. For the last three weeks, every morning I am noticing a few dead ants on the floor. I also catch a few live ones here and there. I have this vision that there is a village of ants living in a corner of the house that I have not bothered to clean in a few years - Yikes. I believe the dead ones in the middle of the floor were the warriors that dared to venture out and take a risk. This image has consumed me so "conveniently" I have decided to go on the deep clean this week.
Now I was a Psychology major and I know exactly what I am doing --- that is avoiding finding a position. The thing is - it is so boring surfing the web for open positions. Noone ever replies to these submitals. Also, talking to people about finding a job is an equal drag. This element of not having control is manifesting this week into the DEEP CLEAN.
I started in my master bathroom. I turned on the dance pulsing music with hard pounding and went at years of scum. I washed the walls, cleaned the medicine cabinet, wiped the blinds, scrubbed the drawers and cabinets etc... It was so invigorating and also disgusting. When I go to a hotel, I get so grossed out with anything that looks like dirt and yet I live within it. It is funny how you don't notice things when they are right in front of your face.
Back to the psychology of this matter. I am clearly using cleaning as a way to control a situation and finish a project. I am hanging in limbo on three positions and there is nothing I can do to move them until next week... so I clean... I am so obvious - case book example of Psychology 101
REALIZATION<
I am sure I will get sick of cleaning in a day or two and will be back into the job search. Also, if I have to sell the house - at least it is clean. I can twist this into a proactive job search move. Realization - we all need to feel proud of our accomplishments and if it means to clean then so be it!!
Friday, February 19, 2010
Day 40 - Me Day
I am embarrassed to admit that allow myself too many "me" days. It seems like I have some luck with the interviews and then I feel it is OK to reward myself. Today, I did nothing... nothing.. in regards to my job search. I went back into my vacationing mode.
I worked out at the club and scoped out what every one's story was that was there. I mean it was a work day yet men, women, old and young were working out. The funny thing was that the local news was in the club interviewing people on their reaction to Tiger Woods new conference.
At first I did not notice them and went on my tread mill and started running. Then I saw many people trying to get noticed so that the newscaster would come over their way to be interviewed. I had an especially aggressive guy next to me who was trying to talk loud to get noticed. Now I am in a weird spot cause I am next to him and did not even see Tiger's conference. I mean - "who cares really?" Why does he have to do a press conference. He lived the high life and got caught - enough said. The only horrible crime against the public is that he branded himself as squeaky clean and companies purchased this image. He owes an apology to them for messing up their campaign.
Anyways back to the story - the reporter ignored my treadmill mate and he left to take a non urgent call (what a tool. I hate when people come to the club just to be seen - pet peeve.
So I am watching the news and what do I see - the back of my head and shoulders running on the treadmill watching their news show. Thank g-d the butt was not in the television frame. If you watch Channel 4 news and you see a girl in a pink top with light brown hair running - it is me. I am a star!!!
SAN ANTONIO
As I said I had a good interview with a company in San Antonio so I decided to go look at real estate and the Jewish day school over there. My daughter happened to notice what I was doing and came over. We started to look at videos of kids from the school. I have to admit they put some dorky videos on their website. Once she saw the first graders skating on paper plates for 3 minutes in their classroom, she was convinced public school was in her future. She was turned off with the old computers and lack of Smart boards in the pictures. She is so funny ... I have to admit she had a pretty good read on the situation.
REALIZATION
I have none today... just trying to fill the page. Talk to you Monday. This was not a productive day.
I worked out at the club and scoped out what every one's story was that was there. I mean it was a work day yet men, women, old and young were working out. The funny thing was that the local news was in the club interviewing people on their reaction to Tiger Woods new conference.
At first I did not notice them and went on my tread mill and started running. Then I saw many people trying to get noticed so that the newscaster would come over their way to be interviewed. I had an especially aggressive guy next to me who was trying to talk loud to get noticed. Now I am in a weird spot cause I am next to him and did not even see Tiger's conference. I mean - "who cares really?" Why does he have to do a press conference. He lived the high life and got caught - enough said. The only horrible crime against the public is that he branded himself as squeaky clean and companies purchased this image. He owes an apology to them for messing up their campaign.
Anyways back to the story - the reporter ignored my treadmill mate and he left to take a non urgent call (what a tool. I hate when people come to the club just to be seen - pet peeve.
So I am watching the news and what do I see - the back of my head and shoulders running on the treadmill watching their news show. Thank g-d the butt was not in the television frame. If you watch Channel 4 news and you see a girl in a pink top with light brown hair running - it is me. I am a star!!!
SAN ANTONIO
As I said I had a good interview with a company in San Antonio so I decided to go look at real estate and the Jewish day school over there. My daughter happened to notice what I was doing and came over. We started to look at videos of kids from the school. I have to admit they put some dorky videos on their website. Once she saw the first graders skating on paper plates for 3 minutes in their classroom, she was convinced public school was in her future. She was turned off with the old computers and lack of Smart boards in the pictures. She is so funny ... I have to admit she had a pretty good read on the situation.
REALIZATION
I have none today... just trying to fill the page. Talk to you Monday. This was not a productive day.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Day 39 - I CAN'T SPELL
First of all I would like to apologize for the numerous typos in my blogs. This always happens to me. I think I have checked my work and then... there it is the next day as blatant as if it smacked me in the face.
The worst thing that has happened to me twice was realizing I had subtle typos on my resume. The problem is when I noticed them, I was sitting in an interview. That is the most mortifying realization. You want to be cool and hope that the interviewer did not notice it but it really throws you off your confidence game. Mine have all been small like I spelled out Michigan and then one item I abbreviate it to MI. Here I am preaching to my attention to the details and there are issues with my resume. Nothing makes you lose credibility faster than that. The worst is when you have dreams that you may have made a goof in your thank you letter. I have woken up several times in the middle of the night to review letters sent... phew so far so good. But it does freak me out.
Needless to say, I noticed in my last entry that I can't spell miracle (even though there is a spell check). So I am apologizing now for any grammatical and spelling errors. I am a girl of content not of form sometiems.
FEEDBACK
I had a phone interview a few days ago and felt like I really clicked with the VP, Human Resources. I was supposed to get his thoughts in a few days from now. It is funny, once you are done with the interview, your desperation increases. I find myself neurotically checking my e-mails and voice mails for that reassurance that things went well. It is so lame but I keep doing it. You know the interviewer forms an immediate opinion about the candidate and then does not give you a second thought. He or she is off doing their work, picking their kids up from school and time seems to be on their side. However, on an interviewee's side - time is ticking second by second looking for that approval- even if the job is not at all of interest to you. It is kind of - the I don't want to get rejected thing. Not sure if this is a girl thing or not.
I had a message today from the recruiter who hooked me up with this phone screen. This man has really been very noncommittal with me. I barely know him and have probably spent about 3 minutes on the phone tops. He outsourced the pre screen to a junior team member. So the message started out... sorry it has taken so long for me to get back with you... I have some feedback (very low energy). I thought oh boy this is not going to be good. He then affirmed that the VP liked me too. There would be more follow-up about next steps in about a week as he is flying to Europe for the week. What a relief... my recruiter is not the most motivating person in the world.
REALIZATION
I need to pause and check my work. I am one of those people that need to step away and come back to ensure no errors (although don't count on it for this blog - I am shocked with my commitment so far to it). Realization 2 - My gut on how people have received me has been totally accurate so far. I need to trust my instincts and not be a phone and e-mail puppy, waiting for a bone and immediate approval.
The worst thing that has happened to me twice was realizing I had subtle typos on my resume. The problem is when I noticed them, I was sitting in an interview. That is the most mortifying realization. You want to be cool and hope that the interviewer did not notice it but it really throws you off your confidence game. Mine have all been small like I spelled out Michigan and then one item I abbreviate it to MI. Here I am preaching to my attention to the details and there are issues with my resume. Nothing makes you lose credibility faster than that. The worst is when you have dreams that you may have made a goof in your thank you letter. I have woken up several times in the middle of the night to review letters sent... phew so far so good. But it does freak me out.
Needless to say, I noticed in my last entry that I can't spell miracle (even though there is a spell check). So I am apologizing now for any grammatical and spelling errors. I am a girl of content not of form sometiems.
FEEDBACK
I had a phone interview a few days ago and felt like I really clicked with the VP, Human Resources. I was supposed to get his thoughts in a few days from now. It is funny, once you are done with the interview, your desperation increases. I find myself neurotically checking my e-mails and voice mails for that reassurance that things went well. It is so lame but I keep doing it. You know the interviewer forms an immediate opinion about the candidate and then does not give you a second thought. He or she is off doing their work, picking their kids up from school and time seems to be on their side. However, on an interviewee's side - time is ticking second by second looking for that approval- even if the job is not at all of interest to you. It is kind of - the I don't want to get rejected thing. Not sure if this is a girl thing or not.
I had a message today from the recruiter who hooked me up with this phone screen. This man has really been very noncommittal with me. I barely know him and have probably spent about 3 minutes on the phone tops. He outsourced the pre screen to a junior team member. So the message started out... sorry it has taken so long for me to get back with you... I have some feedback (very low energy). I thought oh boy this is not going to be good. He then affirmed that the VP liked me too. There would be more follow-up about next steps in about a week as he is flying to Europe for the week. What a relief... my recruiter is not the most motivating person in the world.
REALIZATION
I need to pause and check my work. I am one of those people that need to step away and come back to ensure no errors (although don't count on it for this blog - I am shocked with my commitment so far to it). Realization 2 - My gut on how people have received me has been totally accurate so far. I need to trust my instincts and not be a phone and e-mail puppy, waiting for a bone and immediate approval.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Day 38 - THE SUPPORT GROUP
I can't believe it has been 38 days... ahhh.. but so it is, still having learning lessons and carrying on. It is just weird...
MY INTERVIEW
I am happy to say I was not asked "Tell me about yourself?" I was ready though .. I practiced and practiced. I was determined not to fling my arms around and go into a biography on myself. It was a pleasant interview with a great job content so I am excited that there may be something tangible there. However, the route to the interview did take me down the famous 8 mile (home of Eminem- and his movie). What an ugly part of town. I passed by burnt out businesses, strip clubs, cash checking places and stopped at every red light. It became comical that as soon as one light turned green the other perfectly timed turned red. I can see a postal situation during rush hour with that programming of lights. I will need to consider a new route if I get the job.
THE JOB SUPPORT GROUP
In my commitment to fully use my outplacement services, I joined a job support group. It meets every Wednesday and is facilitated by an outplacement specialist. I thought what the heck, it is not like I have anything better going on. So I attended my first meeting with 4 other men. I thought we were all starting at the same time but I quickly realized that all these folks have been meeting for several months and I was the new kid of the block.
It was like an AA meeting (not that I have been to one - but have seen it on TV - disclaimer). The first person named Brock kicked off and introduced himself with his position statement and how long he has been out of work. He said he was an audit and tax specialist laid off from Delphi. He had been out of work since October. He then began to get us up to speed on how his job search was going. Now this is a weekly thing so I figured he would recap the highlights of the week. Instead he told us EVERYTHING for 30 minutes. He was very sweet and funny but I sensed I could figure out what his issue was that he was not landing a job. He also told a story how he met someone for a top secret position. The meeting was at the hotel and this person could not tell him the specifics of the position or any other detail. The interviewer said that the position could last as short as 6 months to 7 years. He then asked Brock what his plans were for the next 3-5 years. Brock replied working for your doing undefined work. It was funny...
The second guy - let's call him Jim because honestly I don't remember was laid off after 31 years with this company. He began explaining his job about cultivating media. I had no idea what he was talking about since the only media I knew was print or web. He was a micro biologist so I asked. He actually cultivates bacteria. Hell I do that on a daily basis in the kitchen, bathroom, door knob etc... I felt bad for him because I felt like he was never going to find another job. He talked this lingo that was not understandable to the common person. Poor guy - I provided some feedback to his outplacement specialist as this guy was doomed without some immediate intervention.
The other folks were nice and talked about their job search too. It was fine and sad. I walked away thinking I can't end up like these people. I have to land a role and land it quick. I committed to sticking with the group as they were excited to get fresh blood on the team. I sensed they were sick of one another.
REALIZATION
You can prepare for interviews, get everything rehearsed and organized but in the end of the day, a job offer comes with chemistry. I felt I did not have to prove myself today because I was a known entity with some of the team. Realization 2 just like milk, unemployed workers have a shelf life. Stay out too long - you start sitting in addiction support groups looking forward to new members. PEACE OUT
MY INTERVIEW
I am happy to say I was not asked "Tell me about yourself?" I was ready though .. I practiced and practiced. I was determined not to fling my arms around and go into a biography on myself. It was a pleasant interview with a great job content so I am excited that there may be something tangible there. However, the route to the interview did take me down the famous 8 mile (home of Eminem- and his movie). What an ugly part of town. I passed by burnt out businesses, strip clubs, cash checking places and stopped at every red light. It became comical that as soon as one light turned green the other perfectly timed turned red. I can see a postal situation during rush hour with that programming of lights. I will need to consider a new route if I get the job.
THE JOB SUPPORT GROUP
In my commitment to fully use my outplacement services, I joined a job support group. It meets every Wednesday and is facilitated by an outplacement specialist. I thought what the heck, it is not like I have anything better going on. So I attended my first meeting with 4 other men. I thought we were all starting at the same time but I quickly realized that all these folks have been meeting for several months and I was the new kid of the block.
It was like an AA meeting (not that I have been to one - but have seen it on TV - disclaimer). The first person named Brock kicked off and introduced himself with his position statement and how long he has been out of work. He said he was an audit and tax specialist laid off from Delphi. He had been out of work since October. He then began to get us up to speed on how his job search was going. Now this is a weekly thing so I figured he would recap the highlights of the week. Instead he told us EVERYTHING for 30 minutes. He was very sweet and funny but I sensed I could figure out what his issue was that he was not landing a job. He also told a story how he met someone for a top secret position. The meeting was at the hotel and this person could not tell him the specifics of the position or any other detail. The interviewer said that the position could last as short as 6 months to 7 years. He then asked Brock what his plans were for the next 3-5 years. Brock replied working for your doing undefined work. It was funny...
The second guy - let's call him Jim because honestly I don't remember was laid off after 31 years with this company. He began explaining his job about cultivating media. I had no idea what he was talking about since the only media I knew was print or web. He was a micro biologist so I asked. He actually cultivates bacteria. Hell I do that on a daily basis in the kitchen, bathroom, door knob etc... I felt bad for him because I felt like he was never going to find another job. He talked this lingo that was not understandable to the common person. Poor guy - I provided some feedback to his outplacement specialist as this guy was doomed without some immediate intervention.
The other folks were nice and talked about their job search too. It was fine and sad. I walked away thinking I can't end up like these people. I have to land a role and land it quick. I committed to sticking with the group as they were excited to get fresh blood on the team. I sensed they were sick of one another.
REALIZATION
You can prepare for interviews, get everything rehearsed and organized but in the end of the day, a job offer comes with chemistry. I felt I did not have to prove myself today because I was a known entity with some of the team. Realization 2 just like milk, unemployed workers have a shelf life. Stay out too long - you start sitting in addiction support groups looking forward to new members. PEACE OUT
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Day 37 - TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF
Today I sat through a "how to interview" course since I have not really been knocking it out of the park lightly. I have interviewed with a few companies but still hanging out there with no status. I thought brushing up on my skills may not be a bad idea.
I think I am fairly good at fielding questions but the one I think I screw up every time is the TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF? I have seen a few instances where my interviewers eyes start rolling in the back of their head. When they ask me about myself - they really do not want the play by play. I have found myself going into the dreaded... I was born a poor black child (a reference from THE JERK)... I struggle with an edited version of my uneventful life.
The interview course suggested that I provide my positioning statement which provides this canned overview that I am a HR professional with over 15 years of experience in delivering continuous improvement in HR processes.
I guess the thing I struggle with is that I go from very detailed to this vague overview that sounds a bit staged. I have an interview tomorrow so I am going to try the abridged version and see if I do better. Wish me luck. It is hard not to be authentic and just cut to the chase and say - JUST GIVE ME THE JOB.
ADULT ACNE
As I stated, I have an interview tomorrow and wouldn't you know a flair up of adult acne has set in. I especially love the one on my nose that makes me look like Broom Hilda. My husband does not understand why I just don't pop it. He doesn't realize it is like an underground tumor that if pushed may cause me brain damage. I know the experts say that chocolate does not cause pimples but I know they are wrong. I think the number of pimples on my face symbolically represent the amount of chocolate I ate for Valentine's Day. Even though I look like a cyclopes ... it is totally worth the extreme pleasure derived from vanilla creams.
REALIZATION
Interviewing really involves preparation and practice. Being prepared with some one liners takes you further than the epilogue of your life story. Realization 2 - I need to get my rest so I can create makeup miracules on my face.. Nothing says "Do you want a apple pie with your fries" like a forty-something woman with acne.
I think I am fairly good at fielding questions but the one I think I screw up every time is the TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF? I have seen a few instances where my interviewers eyes start rolling in the back of their head. When they ask me about myself - they really do not want the play by play. I have found myself going into the dreaded... I was born a poor black child (a reference from THE JERK)... I struggle with an edited version of my uneventful life.
The interview course suggested that I provide my positioning statement which provides this canned overview that I am a HR professional with over 15 years of experience in delivering continuous improvement in HR processes.
I guess the thing I struggle with is that I go from very detailed to this vague overview that sounds a bit staged. I have an interview tomorrow so I am going to try the abridged version and see if I do better. Wish me luck. It is hard not to be authentic and just cut to the chase and say - JUST GIVE ME THE JOB.
ADULT ACNE
As I stated, I have an interview tomorrow and wouldn't you know a flair up of adult acne has set in. I especially love the one on my nose that makes me look like Broom Hilda. My husband does not understand why I just don't pop it. He doesn't realize it is like an underground tumor that if pushed may cause me brain damage. I know the experts say that chocolate does not cause pimples but I know they are wrong. I think the number of pimples on my face symbolically represent the amount of chocolate I ate for Valentine's Day. Even though I look like a cyclopes ... it is totally worth the extreme pleasure derived from vanilla creams.
REALIZATION
Interviewing really involves preparation and practice. Being prepared with some one liners takes you further than the epilogue of your life story. Realization 2 - I need to get my rest so I can create makeup miracules on my face.. Nothing says "Do you want a apple pie with your fries" like a forty-something woman with acne.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Day 36 - Monday Again
Well it is Monday again and back to the same old grind. First I review all my job alerts with mediocre opportunities that sound as inspiring as tackling mildew in a neglected shower. And then ... one stood out so I decided to JUST DO IT ... ha ha .. Nike is hiring so what the heck. I like their products (except their running shoes), image and branding. Plus my husband says Portland is nice... so I DID IT. I imagine I will hear nothing but I got caught up in the excitement.. I guess also because the Olympics are on this week.
THE OLYMPICS
I am so impressed with these athletes that dedicate years of intense training for the hopes of a medal. I have to admit that I get caught up in it too. I noticed as I have gotten older I am a crying fool. I cry because of the happy moment, I am proud of them (don't even know them) and I cry as a parent of a Olympian. Oh and don't get me started when they dedicate their medal because of a disabled or dead sibling. It is a beautiful and scary thing. I try to imagine if I had to be in the Olympics which winter sport would I choose. I start ruling out the different options. Downhill or jumping looks terrifying and sure way to become paralyzed. Speed skating would get on my nerves because everyone skates so close - I get annoyed when someone gets in my personal space. Due to the unfortunate luge accident, although it looks kind of fun - nothing good every happens from flying down a tunnel at 90 miles an hour with just a helmet and a tightly fitting spandex outfit. Skating and all the pressure to land the triple salchow or avoid a skate blade from piercing your face sound horrifying too. Due to the process of elimination, I have decided on the biathlon.
My daughter got me interested because she is doing a research paper on it. She chose this event because everyone else went with figure or speed skating. That's my girl. The sport basically involves cross country skiing and then target shooting. If you miss the target you get a speed penalty. This sport, although kind of dumb, in concept sounds like the best event for me. I have kind of been in a shooting mood lightly anyways - that whole angry at the world and unemployed thing -- just kidding - I wrote that for effect.
DEDICATION
Alright I went off on a tangent but watching the Olympics and hearing the athletes back story really made me feel like.. is it such a stress to dedicate 5 hours a day to a job search. Here I am whining and carrying on about this short time commitment when there are people who dedicate their lives to one moment in time for a medal. I am weak...
WE ARE THE WORLD
I was very excited to hear the new "We Are The World" song. This is when all the top artists, celebrities and family friends (there were alot of people in the video that were singing and had no right being there)recorded this song for donations to Haiti. Now don't get me wrong, this is a really nice gesture as Haiti is in bad shape, but am I the only one that thought the song sucked...
What a disappointment, as it kicked off with Justin Bieber (are you serious). It was sloppy, mixed poorly and cuts the greats off like Barbara Streisand, Jennifer Hudson and Celine Dion. And then, there was this cheesy side by side of Janet Jackson singing with Michael Jackson's original video. It was funny - as they were not in sync... I will donate money but that song is a train wreck.
REALIZATION
Looking for a job and the Olympics have many parallels. The gold metal winners are the one that go the distance, put the hours in and have great luck. Realization 2 - sometimes remaking an old classic with all the current greats can lead to a disastrous outcome. Give money to Haiti because they have tough times ahead of them.
THE OLYMPICS
I am so impressed with these athletes that dedicate years of intense training for the hopes of a medal. I have to admit that I get caught up in it too. I noticed as I have gotten older I am a crying fool. I cry because of the happy moment, I am proud of them (don't even know them) and I cry as a parent of a Olympian. Oh and don't get me started when they dedicate their medal because of a disabled or dead sibling. It is a beautiful and scary thing. I try to imagine if I had to be in the Olympics which winter sport would I choose. I start ruling out the different options. Downhill or jumping looks terrifying and sure way to become paralyzed. Speed skating would get on my nerves because everyone skates so close - I get annoyed when someone gets in my personal space. Due to the unfortunate luge accident, although it looks kind of fun - nothing good every happens from flying down a tunnel at 90 miles an hour with just a helmet and a tightly fitting spandex outfit. Skating and all the pressure to land the triple salchow or avoid a skate blade from piercing your face sound horrifying too. Due to the process of elimination, I have decided on the biathlon.
My daughter got me interested because she is doing a research paper on it. She chose this event because everyone else went with figure or speed skating. That's my girl. The sport basically involves cross country skiing and then target shooting. If you miss the target you get a speed penalty. This sport, although kind of dumb, in concept sounds like the best event for me. I have kind of been in a shooting mood lightly anyways - that whole angry at the world and unemployed thing -- just kidding - I wrote that for effect.
DEDICATION
Alright I went off on a tangent but watching the Olympics and hearing the athletes back story really made me feel like.. is it such a stress to dedicate 5 hours a day to a job search. Here I am whining and carrying on about this short time commitment when there are people who dedicate their lives to one moment in time for a medal. I am weak...
WE ARE THE WORLD
I was very excited to hear the new "We Are The World" song. This is when all the top artists, celebrities and family friends (there were alot of people in the video that were singing and had no right being there)recorded this song for donations to Haiti. Now don't get me wrong, this is a really nice gesture as Haiti is in bad shape, but am I the only one that thought the song sucked...
What a disappointment, as it kicked off with Justin Bieber (are you serious). It was sloppy, mixed poorly and cuts the greats off like Barbara Streisand, Jennifer Hudson and Celine Dion. And then, there was this cheesy side by side of Janet Jackson singing with Michael Jackson's original video. It was funny - as they were not in sync... I will donate money but that song is a train wreck.
REALIZATION
Looking for a job and the Olympics have many parallels. The gold metal winners are the one that go the distance, put the hours in and have great luck. Realization 2 - sometimes remaking an old classic with all the current greats can lead to a disastrous outcome. Give money to Haiti because they have tough times ahead of them.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Day 34 & 35 - RESEARCH AND CHICOS
Yesterday I learned how to use databases to develop a target market strategy. Basically through Hoovers database, I can pinpoint companies by geography, type of industry, size etc.. My initial thought was great... I can target Michigan companies and really go after them with a vengeance. As I looked at the list, really my only options are businesses that are automotive related. It is great to be in the motor city and I believe in our town, but I also know that these industries are not big on progressive human resources. My experiences have been just getting HR done on a shoe string budget. Not that I think a business needs to spend a ton of money in the function but some would be nice.
Now I am wondering if it makes sense for me really to open up and explore the United States. It just seems like the passion is with the under dogs. The up and coming companies. I feel more inspired with companies that talk about best in class; continuous improvement or world class. A lot of the larger companies are slow to move, wishy washy, lack enthusiasm... maybe my target is off ... I WANT THE DREAM - PUPPY DOGS, FLOWERS, SANTA CLAUS, WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORIES CANDY ROOM (remember the chocolate stream and all the flowers made of gummy drops - yum) However, I do not want to be like Veruka Salt who wanted her own golden goose (she was a brat)but you got the picture.
VALENTINE'S DAY
Everywhere I go the stores barely have customers. Even when ordering on line, packages that normally take 8 days to deliver are coming in 2 - it is wonderful and sad. So today, I needed to go get some valentine's gifts and I decided to get my mother in law a present. Of course the perfect store, CHICO's. I entered it thinking it would be like the other stores, where the sales people are just excited to see someone. Instead the store is packed with overly tan, blond grandmas. I thought they were giving something away. This was definitely the place to be. It is easy to get sucked in as you begin playing Jewish geography and realize that half these ladies are your friends bubbies. I am actually having a good time chatting and getting into the scene. I have an urge to invite them over to my house for a game of Canasta. I am getting lonely and misplaced trying to figure out how to socialize during the day. I am a fish out of water. Maybe I should go blond and get a spray tan.
REFERENCES
I reached out to former colleagues as part of my job search project. The guidelines were to ask for a personal reference and share my marketing plan. I am happy to report so far that everyone has been very nice about doing anything they can do to help me out. The funny thing is that no one is reading the marketing plan. It seemed a little much to me too... Luckily, I did get one response from my former employee who is also going through outplacement... thanks Ken.
REALIZATION
Maybe I am meant to be in Texas, Georgia, New York somewhere else...I think it is time to open up my mind to a nationwide search and see what happens. Not just say it but believe it. Realization 2 - I need to get a hobby before I find myself beginning to look forward to the early bird special. I need to work ... I am getting lost with too much time on my hands.
Now I am wondering if it makes sense for me really to open up and explore the United States. It just seems like the passion is with the under dogs. The up and coming companies. I feel more inspired with companies that talk about best in class; continuous improvement or world class. A lot of the larger companies are slow to move, wishy washy, lack enthusiasm... maybe my target is off ... I WANT THE DREAM - PUPPY DOGS, FLOWERS, SANTA CLAUS, WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORIES CANDY ROOM (remember the chocolate stream and all the flowers made of gummy drops - yum) However, I do not want to be like Veruka Salt who wanted her own golden goose (she was a brat)but you got the picture.
VALENTINE'S DAY
Everywhere I go the stores barely have customers. Even when ordering on line, packages that normally take 8 days to deliver are coming in 2 - it is wonderful and sad. So today, I needed to go get some valentine's gifts and I decided to get my mother in law a present. Of course the perfect store, CHICO's. I entered it thinking it would be like the other stores, where the sales people are just excited to see someone. Instead the store is packed with overly tan, blond grandmas. I thought they were giving something away. This was definitely the place to be. It is easy to get sucked in as you begin playing Jewish geography and realize that half these ladies are your friends bubbies. I am actually having a good time chatting and getting into the scene. I have an urge to invite them over to my house for a game of Canasta. I am getting lonely and misplaced trying to figure out how to socialize during the day. I am a fish out of water. Maybe I should go blond and get a spray tan.
REFERENCES
I reached out to former colleagues as part of my job search project. The guidelines were to ask for a personal reference and share my marketing plan. I am happy to report so far that everyone has been very nice about doing anything they can do to help me out. The funny thing is that no one is reading the marketing plan. It seemed a little much to me too... Luckily, I did get one response from my former employee who is also going through outplacement... thanks Ken.
REALIZATION
Maybe I am meant to be in Texas, Georgia, New York somewhere else...I think it is time to open up my mind to a nationwide search and see what happens. Not just say it but believe it. Realization 2 - I need to get a hobby before I find myself beginning to look forward to the early bird special. I need to work ... I am getting lost with too much time on my hands.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
DAY 33 - SICK OF ME
Today I spent the entire day putting together more SOAR - Situation, Obstacle, Action Plan and Result scenarios covering all areas such as Talent Acquisition, Labor Relations, Organization Design and HR Business Partner experience. It is suggested we have about 25 of these stories completed. I am on story 20 and I am so bored with myself.
Do you ever get sick of yourself? My stories are OK but dissecting my work life is so painful.... I dig back in the memory banks of accomplishments and try to put it in the right format with some compelling twist. In the end, these stories are starting to sound like Charlie Brown's teacher .. wawa wa wa wa... (you never actually heard her voice just that wawa sound). Oh by the way, Charlie Brown Valentine is on tonight - a classic.
I also am solidifying my target company list so I can send it to people that I will ask to give me references if I so happen to actually get further than an interview. I am still really hoping that I can escape this faster than the average bear and just go back to work.
I ran a search of companies in Michigan and the list is pretty short and sad. Maybe I need to run for Governor and draw in more business. I mean I could do better than that Nerd who is running. He sounds like such a geek - ha ha. I don't know that other states actually have better companies, or they sound better because they are not here. The grass is always greener syndrome. Who knows..
I got contacted today from a company in San Antonio, TX that makes medical devices. The position sounds interesting but I have to admit - anything medical kind of makes me queezy. I read through their website and they discuss their dedication to active healing solutions like vacuum assisted closures that help to heal wounds. The visual is kind of gross. Then, regenerative medicine that helps with soft tissue defects and procedures. Procedures is another word that makes me want to vomit. I remember having to listen to my older aunts and uncles talk about having a procedure done the other day. They sit there looking very uncomfortable down yonder and your mind wanders to a bad place...
The last focus is therapeutic support systems that help those immobilized from complications. If I get this job, I am not sure I am going to jump on the visit your customer band wagon. Maybe medical is not the right direction for me.
OPRAH
I was watching a taped Oprah today and she did a story on convent in Michigan. They suggested that there is a lot of young girls and the demand to be a nun is high at this point. I have to say it sounded intriguing. They seemed to have a very peaceful life and certainly were not worrying about a job. There was some spiritual time but many hours were spent playing scrabble and floor hockey. Just for a moment I thought, maybe I should become the first Jewish nun. The peace and quiet and the easy life did not sound bad. By the way, Oprah also did a story on Geisha's and let's just say that is not a position I am interested in pursuing.
REALIZATION
I should continue to do this work because preparation will payoff when I get those great interviews. It is a good refresher and helps you become crystal clear in communicating with future employers and your network. Realization 2 - I could never be a nun, those outfits are really unflattering and I am happily married with a child. Just would not work for my situation. But I give the nuns props for their dedication - they seemed really happy.
Do you ever get sick of yourself? My stories are OK but dissecting my work life is so painful.... I dig back in the memory banks of accomplishments and try to put it in the right format with some compelling twist. In the end, these stories are starting to sound like Charlie Brown's teacher .. wawa wa wa wa... (you never actually heard her voice just that wawa sound). Oh by the way, Charlie Brown Valentine is on tonight - a classic.
I also am solidifying my target company list so I can send it to people that I will ask to give me references if I so happen to actually get further than an interview. I am still really hoping that I can escape this faster than the average bear and just go back to work.
I ran a search of companies in Michigan and the list is pretty short and sad. Maybe I need to run for Governor and draw in more business. I mean I could do better than that Nerd who is running. He sounds like such a geek - ha ha. I don't know that other states actually have better companies, or they sound better because they are not here. The grass is always greener syndrome. Who knows..
I got contacted today from a company in San Antonio, TX that makes medical devices. The position sounds interesting but I have to admit - anything medical kind of makes me queezy. I read through their website and they discuss their dedication to active healing solutions like vacuum assisted closures that help to heal wounds. The visual is kind of gross. Then, regenerative medicine that helps with soft tissue defects and procedures. Procedures is another word that makes me want to vomit. I remember having to listen to my older aunts and uncles talk about having a procedure done the other day. They sit there looking very uncomfortable down yonder and your mind wanders to a bad place...
The last focus is therapeutic support systems that help those immobilized from complications. If I get this job, I am not sure I am going to jump on the visit your customer band wagon. Maybe medical is not the right direction for me.
OPRAH
I was watching a taped Oprah today and she did a story on convent in Michigan. They suggested that there is a lot of young girls and the demand to be a nun is high at this point. I have to say it sounded intriguing. They seemed to have a very peaceful life and certainly were not worrying about a job. There was some spiritual time but many hours were spent playing scrabble and floor hockey. Just for a moment I thought, maybe I should become the first Jewish nun. The peace and quiet and the easy life did not sound bad. By the way, Oprah also did a story on Geisha's and let's just say that is not a position I am interested in pursuing.
REALIZATION
I should continue to do this work because preparation will payoff when I get those great interviews. It is a good refresher and helps you become crystal clear in communicating with future employers and your network. Realization 2 - I could never be a nun, those outfits are really unflattering and I am happily married with a child. Just would not work for my situation. But I give the nuns props for their dedication - they seemed really happy.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Day 32 - The Secret
I have been trying to follow all the advice of the outplacement and continue with these exercises of writing marketing plans of myself, putting together answers for interview questions and networking. All these activities are well and good... but there is definitely an element of control that is out of my hands. I can have the best elevator speech, great resume but in the end of the day, I can't make people want to offer me a job. Most of all, many of the types of jobs that I want don't quite exist at the right level, or responsibilities etc... There is an element of spirituality that we as job seekers need to relinquish to the higher powers that be... I know this sounds crazy but it is true.
THE SECRET
I felt it was time to dust off my old CD and look at it again. I have to say that although there is a cheese factor in this, I think there is some validity to it. Basically the secret (shh don't tell anyone I told you) is the power of attraction. The basic element is that the vibes that you but in the world is what is returned to you. Therefore by being very clear with the universe of what you want it will turn into reality. It also states that if you obsess about what you don't want - that too comes back to haunt you too.
I have to say that I have experienced this positive phenomenon on occasions. Typically these are small requests but there is something to it. I kind of fell out of this line of thinking for a few weeks. I went back to my vision board to focus my energies once again. I have some great things on it - including my happy family, abundance of health, opportunities, money, joy, vacations, Detroit and Michigan and of course a hot black dress.
I mean if the guy on the CD could survive a plane crash, crush his spinal cord with no hope of getting off a ventilator and then live to tell us that he walked out of the hospital within 7 months because he willed it ... than who can argue. I will let all of you know how this works. I am going to spend time focusing on raising my vibrations in the world. Please send goodness my way.
THE UNEMPLOYMENT POSSE
It has been really helpful having a network of unemployed friends and colleagues that you can express your inner most feelings of inadequacies too. Somehow being on the same team allows us to open up in a safe environment. I find myself talking to really talented and successful colleagues that are actually going through the same thoughts and feelings as me. Maybe this is a business opportunity??? I could facilitate virtual mental health sessions where we could talk about things "like how does it make you feel when the regret letter from a generic job posting said that you did not meet the minimum qualifications?" Or how to deal with the general lack of substance in your daily unemployed life?... hmm I may be onto something. All and all, it is a weird space to have all this time on your hand when your mind wanders into the great beyond.
REALIZATION
I should do everything to position myself into finding all those great opportunities. Yes it involves a project plan, networking and discipline but there is room for some good old fashion praying, begging and meditation to help move the abundance my way. Realization 2 - It is good to lean on friends during these times - keeps one from going crazy. Can I get an AMEN???
THE SECRET
I felt it was time to dust off my old CD and look at it again. I have to say that although there is a cheese factor in this, I think there is some validity to it. Basically the secret (shh don't tell anyone I told you) is the power of attraction. The basic element is that the vibes that you but in the world is what is returned to you. Therefore by being very clear with the universe of what you want it will turn into reality. It also states that if you obsess about what you don't want - that too comes back to haunt you too.
I have to say that I have experienced this positive phenomenon on occasions. Typically these are small requests but there is something to it. I kind of fell out of this line of thinking for a few weeks. I went back to my vision board to focus my energies once again. I have some great things on it - including my happy family, abundance of health, opportunities, money, joy, vacations, Detroit and Michigan and of course a hot black dress.
I mean if the guy on the CD could survive a plane crash, crush his spinal cord with no hope of getting off a ventilator and then live to tell us that he walked out of the hospital within 7 months because he willed it ... than who can argue. I will let all of you know how this works. I am going to spend time focusing on raising my vibrations in the world. Please send goodness my way.
THE UNEMPLOYMENT POSSE
It has been really helpful having a network of unemployed friends and colleagues that you can express your inner most feelings of inadequacies too. Somehow being on the same team allows us to open up in a safe environment. I find myself talking to really talented and successful colleagues that are actually going through the same thoughts and feelings as me. Maybe this is a business opportunity??? I could facilitate virtual mental health sessions where we could talk about things "like how does it make you feel when the regret letter from a generic job posting said that you did not meet the minimum qualifications?" Or how to deal with the general lack of substance in your daily unemployed life?... hmm I may be onto something. All and all, it is a weird space to have all this time on your hand when your mind wanders into the great beyond.
REALIZATION
I should do everything to position myself into finding all those great opportunities. Yes it involves a project plan, networking and discipline but there is room for some good old fashion praying, begging and meditation to help move the abundance my way. Realization 2 - It is good to lean on friends during these times - keeps one from going crazy. Can I get an AMEN???
Monday, February 8, 2010
Day 31 - Monday Blahs
I woke up today feeling a little blah.. It actually started on the weekend when I pretty much slept the majority of the weekend. I had no energy.. I am not sure if it was the head cold that is looming around me or depression. I didn't actually feel blue, I just was tired. Moving on, I am doing this new thing that is totally annoying. I walk around questioning if anyone has job satisfaction.
Generally these thoughts are fleeting. When I get waited on by the waitress, or the seamstress or the salesperson, I just subtly think - are they happy? But where it starts to get aggravating is when it interrupts my entertainment.
On Sunday, I spent $60 a ticket to go see Allegria with my daughter and her friend. This is the probably the fifth rendition of Cirque De Sole. It reminds me of when River Dance continued to come back with some different title but the dancing and songs were exactly the same. I digress again. My daughter's friend wanted to go and I thought what the heck, it is something different. I was a little embarrassed to tell my husband because he swears that Allegria sounds like a fake word that was made up to sound like a fancy production. It is hard to say it without laughing.
We went to this acrobatic circus and the stunts the entertainers did were mind boggling. There were people who twirled and twisted through the air, did incredible things with hula hoops and juggling and the most disturbing bends one has ever seen. Instead of being taken to the magical place, I started pondering if these folks had job satisfaction? Did the clowns who provided comic relief get sick of doing the same shtick in every city over and over again?? Did the tumblers wish for a better life than being circus monkeys??? I could not get these thoughts out of my head. How could these entertainers get inspired city after city? They are probably staying at cheap motels with a $50 a day stipend - how could that be fun? So instead of just enjoying my $120 worth of a 2 hour production, I let my stupid mind run rampant....
MONDAY GRIND
I started the typical search by reviewing the job boards and have come to a realization. All the same stupid jobs that I have applied to are still being advertised for over a month now. It is so irritating to see them out in full force on every job board. You know you have been unemployed when you see the cycle repeat itself.
It is like when my first fashion repeat circled around and I realized I was getting old. When I was about 14 the double belt was really in style. I thought I was the coolest girl with this belt that wrapped around my long shirt twice. Then 10 years ago, the double belt was back again... Probably did not last as long as one would hope.. but the fashion magazines were definitely showing them. So getting back to the topic at hand, it occurred to me that there most likely are those perma jobs always open. The same ones that tease us newly unemployed and entice us to apply. But in the end of the day, there is no hope that anyone will actually ever get hired.
BABYFACE
I decided to end my day, when my 18 year old pug came up to visit me in the office. He first tried to see if there was a food opportunity. When there were no cookies for him, He went into the hall and looked me straight in the eye. He proceeded to pee a river on my cream carpet. Yeah I felt the same - Piss on this day!!
REALIZATION
I will get inspiration back and the colors will fall into place. I had job satisfaction when I was employed and I am sure the acrobats love what they do too. They get a rush from the applause and acknowledgement of their unique talents. Realization two - Babyface had a good day!! We just forgot to let him out and he just had to urinate. Sometimes a cigar is just a cigar
Generally these thoughts are fleeting. When I get waited on by the waitress, or the seamstress or the salesperson, I just subtly think - are they happy? But where it starts to get aggravating is when it interrupts my entertainment.
On Sunday, I spent $60 a ticket to go see Allegria with my daughter and her friend. This is the probably the fifth rendition of Cirque De Sole. It reminds me of when River Dance continued to come back with some different title but the dancing and songs were exactly the same. I digress again. My daughter's friend wanted to go and I thought what the heck, it is something different. I was a little embarrassed to tell my husband because he swears that Allegria sounds like a fake word that was made up to sound like a fancy production. It is hard to say it without laughing.
We went to this acrobatic circus and the stunts the entertainers did were mind boggling. There were people who twirled and twisted through the air, did incredible things with hula hoops and juggling and the most disturbing bends one has ever seen. Instead of being taken to the magical place, I started pondering if these folks had job satisfaction? Did the clowns who provided comic relief get sick of doing the same shtick in every city over and over again?? Did the tumblers wish for a better life than being circus monkeys??? I could not get these thoughts out of my head. How could these entertainers get inspired city after city? They are probably staying at cheap motels with a $50 a day stipend - how could that be fun? So instead of just enjoying my $120 worth of a 2 hour production, I let my stupid mind run rampant....
MONDAY GRIND
I started the typical search by reviewing the job boards and have come to a realization. All the same stupid jobs that I have applied to are still being advertised for over a month now. It is so irritating to see them out in full force on every job board. You know you have been unemployed when you see the cycle repeat itself.
It is like when my first fashion repeat circled around and I realized I was getting old. When I was about 14 the double belt was really in style. I thought I was the coolest girl with this belt that wrapped around my long shirt twice. Then 10 years ago, the double belt was back again... Probably did not last as long as one would hope.. but the fashion magazines were definitely showing them. So getting back to the topic at hand, it occurred to me that there most likely are those perma jobs always open. The same ones that tease us newly unemployed and entice us to apply. But in the end of the day, there is no hope that anyone will actually ever get hired.
BABYFACE
I decided to end my day, when my 18 year old pug came up to visit me in the office. He first tried to see if there was a food opportunity. When there were no cookies for him, He went into the hall and looked me straight in the eye. He proceeded to pee a river on my cream carpet. Yeah I felt the same - Piss on this day!!
REALIZATION
I will get inspiration back and the colors will fall into place. I had job satisfaction when I was employed and I am sure the acrobats love what they do too. They get a rush from the applause and acknowledgement of their unique talents. Realization two - Babyface had a good day!! We just forgot to let him out and he just had to urinate. Sometimes a cigar is just a cigar
Friday, February 5, 2010
Day 30 - The Prescription Scramble
As you know we have opted for continuation of health care benefits through my former company. There have been some administrative gaps that have just given us the opportunity to purchase retro coverage for January and then moving forward. Before the year was over, my husband and I made sure all our prescriptions were refilled the last day of 2009 to save a month of refills. Now it is time for us to refill our prescriptions. Unfortunately our health care program puts the majority of the cost up front on us. Therefore, we had to get creative in saving any unnecessary cost. My poor husband had to do the majority of scrambling since most of the drugs are for him. I have to give him kudos. He prepared spreadsheets and cost comparisons, he clipped coupons and then made the call of shame to our doctors, friends who are doctors and family members who are doctors - asking for free samples. With clever thinking and balls of steel, we were able to save about $500 this month - not bad. So..more cash in our pocket and less pride in our heart (you do what you gotta do). Actually the thought of my husband having to present coupons to the pharmacist at Costco is kind of an uncomfortable image.
FREAKS COME OUT DURING THE DAY
I really love where I live but now that I am out and about during the day, there are a lot of weird people in my radius. It is frightening to drive in local strip malls. I can't tell you how many times that I have almost been hit in both my car and on foot. I never imagined myself having to use my most defensive driving techniques in the parking lot of Trader Joes.
I also have to give Weight Watchers a new found respect. They have to deal with the weirdest freaks. Today, I was waiting behind a couple. The woman could not stand on the scale for 5 seconds to get her weight accurate. Either she acted like she was balancing on a high wire flinging her hands up and down or she kept on holding on to the ledge in front of her to throw off her weight. You just knew that she was not going to last more than 3 meetings before she gives up on this program. The man was next and he definitely looked a little off. At first I thought they were a couple until she introduced him as her son... or was he??? Maybe he was a sonband (son+husband - It was an odd situation).
It is encouraging that at least I am in a better situation than them. It gives me hope in the world that my issues are very minor. At least I have my balance and sense of humor.
Realization -
Even though unemployment is hard on your ego, bank account and family, it is a great learning experience. I see myself growing and giving me a better sense of self. I appreciated the true meaning of life which is family, health and the ability to get one good laugh a day... and I am.. even if it is at my own expense.... 30 days down the hatch and I am fine.. Hallelujah
FREAKS COME OUT DURING THE DAY
I really love where I live but now that I am out and about during the day, there are a lot of weird people in my radius. It is frightening to drive in local strip malls. I can't tell you how many times that I have almost been hit in both my car and on foot. I never imagined myself having to use my most defensive driving techniques in the parking lot of Trader Joes.
I also have to give Weight Watchers a new found respect. They have to deal with the weirdest freaks. Today, I was waiting behind a couple. The woman could not stand on the scale for 5 seconds to get her weight accurate. Either she acted like she was balancing on a high wire flinging her hands up and down or she kept on holding on to the ledge in front of her to throw off her weight. You just knew that she was not going to last more than 3 meetings before she gives up on this program. The man was next and he definitely looked a little off. At first I thought they were a couple until she introduced him as her son... or was he??? Maybe he was a sonband (son+husband - It was an odd situation).
It is encouraging that at least I am in a better situation than them. It gives me hope in the world that my issues are very minor. At least I have my balance and sense of humor.
Realization -
Even though unemployment is hard on your ego, bank account and family, it is a great learning experience. I see myself growing and giving me a better sense of self. I appreciated the true meaning of life which is family, health and the ability to get one good laugh a day... and I am.. even if it is at my own expense.... 30 days down the hatch and I am fine.. Hallelujah
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Day 29 - Getting Focused
Today I went to my outplacement firm for back to back training in Stage 1 and Stage 2. The outplacement group is located in a building that houses some good companies like SAP, GE etc.. So riding up the elevator I tried to act like I was just going to work or visiting a client. There were 2 guys in the elevator. We spaced ourselves out as we entered the booth. One guy went to left, I went to the right and then the third person stayed in the middle. I felt like I was wearing my cover well as the elevator started moving up the floors. The first guy got off and the second guy moves to my side. So now there are two of us on the left side (it was kind of weird). In these situations, the middle person had the obligation to move to the right and balance the elevator space. No he moves to my side and then asks the dreaded question "What company is on Floor 15?" Aah... I thought I pulled this off. I quickly replied the name of the outplacement firm. He said "oh" and the conversation was over. Back to reality for me - I was going to floor 15 with all the other unemployed to desperately learn how to find a job.
STAGE 1
This session was focused on some of the work I had already completed. The training included practicing our elevator speeches and learning how to look for a job through the Internet, external recruiters and job databases. I walked in a few minutes late (my usual subliminal rebellion I think) to the most awkward situation. This poor guy is asked point blank by our aggressive teacher why he left his company? He began rattling his speech which included that his company was purchased and his departments back office work was being moved to another state. So far he is doing well.. then he is asked "were you asked to move with the work?" then the himming and hawing began. It was a good exercise to reinforce that we need to have this speech down and not to let the interviewer see you sweat it out.
I was totally dreading the time he was going to make me an example. Luckily he asked me about my positioning statement. I replied with false confidence - I am a Human Resources Leader with a focus in talent acquisition, development and employee relations. My speciality is to improve the cost, quality and delivery of HR processes. Phew... he did not even heckle me. But you know what... it sounds so stupid really!!!!
THE SPIDER
As I am writing this blog, I see kind of a gross spider on my printer. I thought I will just take care of it with a Kleenex and get rid of it with no drama. Wouldn't you know as soon as I get it in the tissue a few baby spiders fell from it and they got mushed on my paper tray. Now I am scrapping off legs and it is green. Gross... I may burn in hell.. I just took out a mom and her babies. Sorry g-d, did not know...
STAGE 2
The second half of the day was dedicated to developing our market plan and how to track our productivity. This was actually really good. There is a little chart that tells us we should spend 20 hours a week filling our job pipeline, 10 hours closing the deal (interviewing etc) and 5 hours managing the process. We were then given about 8 hours to screw around and do what we want otherwise called maintaining balance. I took a look at my last few weeks and I think I have spent about 30 hours on me time and 8 hours looking for a job. Yikes... I think I have this whole thing in reverse.
REALIZATION
I still am struggling with my identity as an unemployed person - not sure I am ever going to be comfortable accepting this new reality - I hope it is temporary. Realization 2 - I need to start tracking my activities and spend 8 hours on me time and 30 hours on finding a job. I am hoping this blog will be coming to an end soon. Then I can start the working girl blog..
STAGE 1
This session was focused on some of the work I had already completed. The training included practicing our elevator speeches and learning how to look for a job through the Internet, external recruiters and job databases. I walked in a few minutes late (my usual subliminal rebellion I think) to the most awkward situation. This poor guy is asked point blank by our aggressive teacher why he left his company? He began rattling his speech which included that his company was purchased and his departments back office work was being moved to another state. So far he is doing well.. then he is asked "were you asked to move with the work?" then the himming and hawing began. It was a good exercise to reinforce that we need to have this speech down and not to let the interviewer see you sweat it out.
I was totally dreading the time he was going to make me an example. Luckily he asked me about my positioning statement. I replied with false confidence - I am a Human Resources Leader with a focus in talent acquisition, development and employee relations. My speciality is to improve the cost, quality and delivery of HR processes. Phew... he did not even heckle me. But you know what... it sounds so stupid really!!!!
THE SPIDER
As I am writing this blog, I see kind of a gross spider on my printer. I thought I will just take care of it with a Kleenex and get rid of it with no drama. Wouldn't you know as soon as I get it in the tissue a few baby spiders fell from it and they got mushed on my paper tray. Now I am scrapping off legs and it is green. Gross... I may burn in hell.. I just took out a mom and her babies. Sorry g-d, did not know...
STAGE 2
The second half of the day was dedicated to developing our market plan and how to track our productivity. This was actually really good. There is a little chart that tells us we should spend 20 hours a week filling our job pipeline, 10 hours closing the deal (interviewing etc) and 5 hours managing the process. We were then given about 8 hours to screw around and do what we want otherwise called maintaining balance. I took a look at my last few weeks and I think I have spent about 30 hours on me time and 8 hours looking for a job. Yikes... I think I have this whole thing in reverse.
REALIZATION
I still am struggling with my identity as an unemployed person - not sure I am ever going to be comfortable accepting this new reality - I hope it is temporary. Realization 2 - I need to start tracking my activities and spend 8 hours on me time and 30 hours on finding a job. I am hoping this blog will be coming to an end soon. Then I can start the working girl blog..
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Day 28 - A Slow Day
I had the best intentions to get a lot of things done today but let's here it for poor execution. I woke up to help get my daughter off to school and then planned on hitting the job search but a soft bed won out. It was just the right temperature and the pillow was so fluffy - I got pulled in - what can I say.
Finally when I was well rested, I needed to write my thank you notes for the interview. I looked through my stash and realized sending a card with a pug or a caricature of me on the front of it was not appropriate for the occasion. I ran out to the store where I bumped into a neighbor and got stuck in a conversation that had no content and went way too long. It is hard to escape from that situation. It was especially awkward because she asked if I landed a job? and then gave me the canned "you are talented and I am sure something will work out."
Now it is about one hour later and this errand should have taken 15 minutes. Then, I went for my mandatory 32 ounce diet coke at Burger King. Finally I am on my way home and decide to return my sister in law's call. She wants to meet for a quick lunch. I tell her no and then change my mind - what the heck, I was hungry.
OK, now it is 1:30 p.m. and I am finally home. I write my first card and it is going on and on and on. I realize it is better to send a thank you e-mail since it would be faster and neater. I finish my second thank you e-mail and hear my husband screaming at a rude customer service rep on the phone. He then yells up that he needs me to pick up carpool at school. I could not argue because I had about 5 minutes to get over there as school was being let out.
I picked up two screaming boys and my daughter and had to listen to their self made skit song. They sing at the top of their lungs "don't tease the ladies or they will die!" I then interject that their message was disturbing and did they want to discuss any repressed anger (I was a Psychology major). I suggested they change the words to "don't tease the ladies cause it is not nice!" they did not buy it.
Now it is 3:15 p.m. and I have to finish the last thank you e-mail. I then straighten out my COBRA. I have been waiting a month for an invoice to pay for medical coverage. All our medication we filled in 2009 are down to the last pills. We are kind of desperate to have this firmed up. Not having health insurance is a scary proposition. I tried to avoid any situations in January where any of us could get injured.
I then realize that I owed a call to a recruiter who is looking for a Talent Acquisition Director for a Pharmaceutical Company. As I spoke with her, the role started to sound really interesting. Next thing I know, I am in a full blown telephone interview having to provide examples of my out of the box thinking. It was not the most inspiring day so I really had to dig deep inside. This company had a big ramp up to release a cancer drug to the public. I have no idea what that takes and the type of talent involved in a project like a drug release. I start improvising - throwing out ideas (which I am sure were totally lame). Maybe we can reach out to doctors, cancer victims, project managers... I had no idea. All I know is that I hope I never have to use that drug.
Something must of stuck as she was going to present me to the VP. She told me he was looking for someone from a different industry. I thought I sounded kind of insane but who knows maybe I met the job specification "Looking for a crazy chick with stupid ideas."
Realization - I need to schedule myself a day in advance so I don't get off track. I need to complete my tasks and if it means skipping lunch or sleep in time, so be it. Realization 2 - I need to develop an elevator speech that I can use when I get stopped on the street and someone asks have you found work yet? My first thought should just be a simple no and it cut off the discussion - just kidding.
Finally when I was well rested, I needed to write my thank you notes for the interview. I looked through my stash and realized sending a card with a pug or a caricature of me on the front of it was not appropriate for the occasion. I ran out to the store where I bumped into a neighbor and got stuck in a conversation that had no content and went way too long. It is hard to escape from that situation. It was especially awkward because she asked if I landed a job? and then gave me the canned "you are talented and I am sure something will work out."
Now it is about one hour later and this errand should have taken 15 minutes. Then, I went for my mandatory 32 ounce diet coke at Burger King. Finally I am on my way home and decide to return my sister in law's call. She wants to meet for a quick lunch. I tell her no and then change my mind - what the heck, I was hungry.
OK, now it is 1:30 p.m. and I am finally home. I write my first card and it is going on and on and on. I realize it is better to send a thank you e-mail since it would be faster and neater. I finish my second thank you e-mail and hear my husband screaming at a rude customer service rep on the phone. He then yells up that he needs me to pick up carpool at school. I could not argue because I had about 5 minutes to get over there as school was being let out.
I picked up two screaming boys and my daughter and had to listen to their self made skit song. They sing at the top of their lungs "don't tease the ladies or they will die!" I then interject that their message was disturbing and did they want to discuss any repressed anger (I was a Psychology major). I suggested they change the words to "don't tease the ladies cause it is not nice!" they did not buy it.
Now it is 3:15 p.m. and I have to finish the last thank you e-mail. I then straighten out my COBRA. I have been waiting a month for an invoice to pay for medical coverage. All our medication we filled in 2009 are down to the last pills. We are kind of desperate to have this firmed up. Not having health insurance is a scary proposition. I tried to avoid any situations in January where any of us could get injured.
I then realize that I owed a call to a recruiter who is looking for a Talent Acquisition Director for a Pharmaceutical Company. As I spoke with her, the role started to sound really interesting. Next thing I know, I am in a full blown telephone interview having to provide examples of my out of the box thinking. It was not the most inspiring day so I really had to dig deep inside. This company had a big ramp up to release a cancer drug to the public. I have no idea what that takes and the type of talent involved in a project like a drug release. I start improvising - throwing out ideas (which I am sure were totally lame). Maybe we can reach out to doctors, cancer victims, project managers... I had no idea. All I know is that I hope I never have to use that drug.
Something must of stuck as she was going to present me to the VP. She told me he was looking for someone from a different industry. I thought I sounded kind of insane but who knows maybe I met the job specification "Looking for a crazy chick with stupid ideas."
Realization - I need to schedule myself a day in advance so I don't get off track. I need to complete my tasks and if it means skipping lunch or sleep in time, so be it. Realization 2 - I need to develop an elevator speech that I can use when I get stopped on the street and someone asks have you found work yet? My first thought should just be a simple no and it cut off the discussion - just kidding.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Day 27 - Exploring
Today was my big exploration meeting and I wanted the day to go smoothly. First, I went for a long treadmill run while listening to inspirational kick ass and you shall overcome music trying to get myself in the mode of positive thinking. It was actually a pretty good run. Then, I had a high protein brunch to ensure I would have energy and mental crispness at the interview.
I took my shower and decided for a wardrobe change. My new suit looked good but I could not seem to find the right top to go underneath it. Either I was rocking the priest look, or the washed out look or the she man feeling, it was not working for me. I felt guilty after all the trauma and time that was involved with the suit, but I was not feeling it. It is important to feel confident in your appearance so I quickly changed to a nice dress and sweater and felt better.
I then sat with my husband and asked him for continuous affirmations of my worth. I would say "I am smart - aren't I? " "I am employable - right?" I give him a lot of credit since I get in these moods and he just feeds my ego and builds my confidence to send me on my way.
THE MEETING/INTERVIEW
Everything seemed to moving well and I met with three HR leaders and the Executive Vice President. Everyone was very nice and asked probing questions and shared their views on the business. The only problem is that we all were at a loss of what I was interviewing for since there was not a defined position. I tried to sell my flexibility, capacity for work blah blah blah... I walked away feeling like I did as well as I could do but it was unclear if the next step would actually turn into an employment offer.
I called my husband on the way home and talked about my disappointment that this opportunity may not in fact turn into the great Director role I had hoped for. He then listened to the story and told me that I was being irrational. He talked me off the ledge of hopelessness.
It is weird how you can go from such a high - knowing I had this great exploratory interview to such lows of postpartum depression. It is like I was so excited about the event that I did not think of the outcome. All in all, I think I performed as well as possible but feel completely lost about the future of this opportunity.
MY SUNSHINE
I came home and felt sort of null and void. Thank goodness for my daughter, who is my ray of sunshine. She cheered me up by turning on music and entertaining me with her dancing such as a bad rendition of the running man, a fast pace rock and a little Bolshevik kick thing.
REALIZATION - As long as you are prepared and present yourself the best you can, the rest of the decision falls into the company hiring - it is out of your control. Realization 2 - I am the luckiest girl in the world cause I have a great family and a cute daughter that is funny, positive and what really matters in life.
I took my shower and decided for a wardrobe change. My new suit looked good but I could not seem to find the right top to go underneath it. Either I was rocking the priest look, or the washed out look or the she man feeling, it was not working for me. I felt guilty after all the trauma and time that was involved with the suit, but I was not feeling it. It is important to feel confident in your appearance so I quickly changed to a nice dress and sweater and felt better.
I then sat with my husband and asked him for continuous affirmations of my worth. I would say "I am smart - aren't I? " "I am employable - right?" I give him a lot of credit since I get in these moods and he just feeds my ego and builds my confidence to send me on my way.
THE MEETING/INTERVIEW
Everything seemed to moving well and I met with three HR leaders and the Executive Vice President. Everyone was very nice and asked probing questions and shared their views on the business. The only problem is that we all were at a loss of what I was interviewing for since there was not a defined position. I tried to sell my flexibility, capacity for work blah blah blah... I walked away feeling like I did as well as I could do but it was unclear if the next step would actually turn into an employment offer.
I called my husband on the way home and talked about my disappointment that this opportunity may not in fact turn into the great Director role I had hoped for. He then listened to the story and told me that I was being irrational. He talked me off the ledge of hopelessness.
It is weird how you can go from such a high - knowing I had this great exploratory interview to such lows of postpartum depression. It is like I was so excited about the event that I did not think of the outcome. All in all, I think I performed as well as possible but feel completely lost about the future of this opportunity.
MY SUNSHINE
I came home and felt sort of null and void. Thank goodness for my daughter, who is my ray of sunshine. She cheered me up by turning on music and entertaining me with her dancing such as a bad rendition of the running man, a fast pace rock and a little Bolshevik kick thing.
REALIZATION - As long as you are prepared and present yourself the best you can, the rest of the decision falls into the company hiring - it is out of your control. Realization 2 - I am the luckiest girl in the world cause I have a great family and a cute daughter that is funny, positive and what really matters in life.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Day 26 - Getting Ready - Round Two
BINGO WAS HIS NAME-0
Everywhere I go I always am wearing my HR hat. How can a process be streamlined? How can employees be more engaged at their work and on and on and on. So it was no exception when our family went to my daughter's school last night for BINGO. It was an event to bring the community together and also raise money for the school. I reluctantly went (I am not always the biggest fan of extracurricular school activities).
The night was actually a pleasant surprise accept the actual BINGO calling process. First of all, I was informed that this event has been done for several years so it amazed me that there was a total breakdown when it came to calling out the numbers.
The first issue was the initial bingo caller had a major speech impediment. He would call JEE fiftween, Bwee twee. This was coupled with the bad audio system which made for a funny and frustrating time. If this volunteer had good HR guidance he would be a great at distributing the prizes, checking the cards for winning accuracy - not to call out the numbers.
Then we moved onto the fancy card configuration like 4 corners. That would be numbers in B and O columns only. However, the callers did not figure this out and continued to call out N 42 and I 23 etc. The crowd would yell and they could not figure out why.
All and all it was funny but I wanted to run up on stage and organize the event. Have my mother-in-law, a seasoned BINGO player, call the numbers at the right speed and accuracy. On a positive note, my daughter won a lighted make-up mirror and a battery operated manicure tool as new clutter for the house.
ROUND TWO
I am going in for my exploratory meeting tomorrow with a local great company. I am trying to keep my expectations in line but it is hard. I spent the day preparing, practicing interview answers, putting packets about me together and generally doing all the research I could to make sure I was in the know. I am trying to come off cool, calm and collected but I can't help feel like the unloved girlfriend. Am I trying too hard? Preparing too much? I hope I do not have the scent of desperation oozing from my body. Everyone ... Ignore my ranting.. I do this to myself all the time.
I have decided to step away and go enjoy the rest of my evening with intelligent programming such as the Bachelor - On The Wings of Love. How lame is that.. I hope I am not asked in the interview what magazines I read or television I watch. I am not sure they would be impressed with Lucky, In Style and The Biggest Loser.
Realization - I need to relax and be myself in the interview because I have no way of predicting what will be asked or what they are thinking. Realization 2 - I am shallow but very employable... taking yourself too seriously is not a good thing all the time.
Everywhere I go I always am wearing my HR hat. How can a process be streamlined? How can employees be more engaged at their work and on and on and on. So it was no exception when our family went to my daughter's school last night for BINGO. It was an event to bring the community together and also raise money for the school. I reluctantly went (I am not always the biggest fan of extracurricular school activities).
The night was actually a pleasant surprise accept the actual BINGO calling process. First of all, I was informed that this event has been done for several years so it amazed me that there was a total breakdown when it came to calling out the numbers.
The first issue was the initial bingo caller had a major speech impediment. He would call JEE fiftween, Bwee twee. This was coupled with the bad audio system which made for a funny and frustrating time. If this volunteer had good HR guidance he would be a great at distributing the prizes, checking the cards for winning accuracy - not to call out the numbers.
Then we moved onto the fancy card configuration like 4 corners. That would be numbers in B and O columns only. However, the callers did not figure this out and continued to call out N 42 and I 23 etc. The crowd would yell and they could not figure out why.
All and all it was funny but I wanted to run up on stage and organize the event. Have my mother-in-law, a seasoned BINGO player, call the numbers at the right speed and accuracy. On a positive note, my daughter won a lighted make-up mirror and a battery operated manicure tool as new clutter for the house.
ROUND TWO
I am going in for my exploratory meeting tomorrow with a local great company. I am trying to keep my expectations in line but it is hard. I spent the day preparing, practicing interview answers, putting packets about me together and generally doing all the research I could to make sure I was in the know. I am trying to come off cool, calm and collected but I can't help feel like the unloved girlfriend. Am I trying too hard? Preparing too much? I hope I do not have the scent of desperation oozing from my body. Everyone ... Ignore my ranting.. I do this to myself all the time.
I have decided to step away and go enjoy the rest of my evening with intelligent programming such as the Bachelor - On The Wings of Love. How lame is that.. I hope I am not asked in the interview what magazines I read or television I watch. I am not sure they would be impressed with Lucky, In Style and The Biggest Loser.
Realization - I need to relax and be myself in the interview because I have no way of predicting what will be asked or what they are thinking. Realization 2 - I am shallow but very employable... taking yourself too seriously is not a good thing all the time.
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