Making a career change can be tricky on a resume. If your work history strongly suggests to an employer that you want to remain in your old field, you need work extra hard on your resume to convince him otherwise.
Here are a few tricks Continue reading...
Showing posts with label job search - career change. Show all posts
Showing posts with label job search - career change. Show all posts
Monday, April 25, 2011
Monday, February 21, 2011
"Mom Job" Discussion Group… Right Here in Susan Ireland's Job Lounge
Are you a mom with a career? A mom who wants a career but can't find the time to squeeze it into your life? Or a mom who needs to earn a paycheck and stay at home with the kids?
Meet Garla Smith, creator of Smart Moms and Smart Moms Online. Garla is going to lead a discussion group here in Susan Ireland's Job Lounge. She'll answer your questions, and from time to time post a short article. So get ready to post your comments and follow the thread as moms discuss "mom jobs," the art of juggling employment and motherhood.
There was a time when it was a given that a woman, once married, would stay home and care for her husband, home and children. At some point we women realized we also were bright, intelligent beings with amazing capabilities to contribute to “real” careers, and we began entering the work force in droves. Who said we couldn’t have it all?
The reality, as many women today are discovering, is that while you can have “both” a career and a family, “all” is an overstatement. Working a traditional full-time job means handing the care and raising of your child to someone else (and often being too exhausted and harried to enjoy the times when you are together.)
The alternative – staying at home full-time with the children — is often unrealistic financially. Even for those women lucky enough to have the funds to do so, the subsequent loss of intellectual stimulation, the independence of a paycheck and daily social interaction can be surprisingly devastating.
What then is the happy medium? The Holy Grail of modern motherhood: A “mom job.” What is a mom job? It can be different things to different people, but common denominators include workplace and scheduling flexibility, part-time hours, the option to work from home part or all of the time, and leeway to take time off for sick children or school activities.
This blog will address the pursuit of the mom job, how to search for one, how to secure one, even how to convert your existing job into a mom job.
Post your questions here and let’s see how we can help each other find that infamous mom job.
Meet Garla Smith, creator of Smart Moms and Smart Moms Online. Garla is going to lead a discussion group here in Susan Ireland's Job Lounge. She'll answer your questions, and from time to time post a short article. So get ready to post your comments and follow the thread as moms discuss "mom jobs," the art of juggling employment and motherhood.
The Desperate Need for a "Mom Job"
by Garla Smith
There was a time when it was a given that a woman, once married, would stay home and care for her husband, home and children. At some point we women realized we also were bright, intelligent beings with amazing capabilities to contribute to “real” careers, and we began entering the work force in droves. Who said we couldn’t have it all?
The reality, as many women today are discovering, is that while you can have “both” a career and a family, “all” is an overstatement. Working a traditional full-time job means handing the care and raising of your child to someone else (and often being too exhausted and harried to enjoy the times when you are together.)
The alternative – staying at home full-time with the children — is often unrealistic financially. Even for those women lucky enough to have the funds to do so, the subsequent loss of intellectual stimulation, the independence of a paycheck and daily social interaction can be surprisingly devastating.
What then is the happy medium? The Holy Grail of modern motherhood: A “mom job.” What is a mom job? It can be different things to different people, but common denominators include workplace and scheduling flexibility, part-time hours, the option to work from home part or all of the time, and leeway to take time off for sick children or school activities.
This blog will address the pursuit of the mom job, how to search for one, how to secure one, even how to convert your existing job into a mom job.
Post your questions here and let’s see how we can help each other find that infamous mom job.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
How to Translate Your Military Experience for a Civilian Job Search
Transitioning from the military to the civilian world is a little like moving to a new country where a different language is spoken. Most civilian employers don't understand military terminology. That means you have to do some translating if you're making a military-to-civilian career change.
In this video, Patra Frame suggests four ways to learn job-related civilian terminology. Notice these activities are also excellent ways to find a civilian job!
How to Translate Military Terminology to Civilian Speak
On your resume and in job interviews, it's your job to convey the value you offer a civilian employer -- and you need to do that in civilian-speak, not military lingo.In this video, Patra Frame suggests four ways to learn job-related civilian terminology. Notice these activities are also excellent ways to find a civilian job!
- Search for common civilian terminology. Read through 10-20 job posts in your line of work to see what terms are commonly used.
- Read industry-specific articles, both in print and online, to get up to date on what's happening and how to articulate it.
- Attend professional events such as job fairs and civilian classes in your line of work. Listen to how others are describing their civilian work functions. Join in the conversation using those terms.
- Participate in social networking sites such as LinkedIn where you can discuss work-related topics with civilian professionals.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Latin PhD to High-Tech Career
We hear stories of people who found success by following their passions. But what if your passion is in a non-commercial field such as... Latin? In the following interview, Jed explains how he pursued his passion for Latin and landed his current job in high-tech.
Susan: I understand that you got your degree in Latin. Did you chose that major with a career in mind that was related to Latin?
Jed: BA in classics (Greek/Latin), and then MA and PhD in Latin. So yes, it's a bit of a swerve. When I started college, I took some computer science courses that I greatly enjoyed, and I also took Homer. When it came to choosing between debugging code for 12 hours a day under fluorescent lights vs. reading Homer with my feet up on the fender, so to speak, I decided on the latter. What followed was 12 years of focus on Greek and Latin, with a passion for linguistics (particularly metrics and pragmatics), and a love of being in the classroom. When I went to graduate school, I didn't have the sense that I was going for a career in research/teaching ancient languages; but I did have that sense after I got my Master's.
Susan: After you graduated, did you try to get a job in a field that was related to your degree?
Jed: Since I went straight to grad school after college, I didn't really interact with the job market outside of my university until I was working on my dissertation. I taught quite a bit as a grad student, and there's a certain amount of competition there, but it's not the same.
Susan: When you applied for the technical job you now hold, how did you list your degree on your resume? Did you try to make your degree relevant to your job objective, or did you lean solely on non-academic experience to support your application?
Jed: I applied and was accepted to be a Technical Assistant at a company that provides visual effects for the entertainment industry (we'll call it ABC), while finishing my dissertation. During the first three months on the job here, I spent my nights editing and tweaking. So I managed to file for my dissertation while ramping up at a job in a completely different career. When I applied at ABC, I was frank about my experience (near zero) and my educational background (almost completely inappropriate). My only hope was, as you said, pointing to my non-academic experience, to which I had devoted a fair bit of my time -- writing collaborative textbook software, educational software for the blind, my own research tools for searching the corpus of Greek and Latin texts on digital media, etc.
Susan: What advice do you have for job seekers with degrees that are unrelated to their job search?
Jed: I think in retrospect one thing I did right was to be frank and open about why I changed my mind about the career I wanted to follow. Now, when I interview job applicants for openings at ABC, I look for the story that comes out of the resume (and better, the cover letter, if they've written one), explaining the course of the applicant's interests and how he or she approaches new problems.
If people have been sincere about their passions, and done things that they like, I'm interested and I want to know more. What I don't want is for us to bring people in who just do things because they think they will look good on their resumes. That makes me feel like our company might just be a resume builder as well!
I want someone who is smart, intellectually flexible, able to learn new things on his or her feet quickly, good at working with people, articulate, and passionate. People with non-computer science backgrounds are shy about applying here, and strong computer science is certainly important; but by the same token, there are people with a formidable checklist of computer science credentials that I think are completely unhirable because they lack the broader qualities that we need in the talent we want to work with.
Also, if you're interested in working somewhere, and you don't think the published job description lines up perfectly with your skills or experience because they're asking for N years of something and you have N-2 or whatever, apply anyway. Do this for three reasons:
Susan: I understand that you got your degree in Latin. Did you chose that major with a career in mind that was related to Latin?
Jed: BA in classics (Greek/Latin), and then MA and PhD in Latin. So yes, it's a bit of a swerve. When I started college, I took some computer science courses that I greatly enjoyed, and I also took Homer. When it came to choosing between debugging code for 12 hours a day under fluorescent lights vs. reading Homer with my feet up on the fender, so to speak, I decided on the latter. What followed was 12 years of focus on Greek and Latin, with a passion for linguistics (particularly metrics and pragmatics), and a love of being in the classroom. When I went to graduate school, I didn't have the sense that I was going for a career in research/teaching ancient languages; but I did have that sense after I got my Master's.
Susan: After you graduated, did you try to get a job in a field that was related to your degree?
Jed: Since I went straight to grad school after college, I didn't really interact with the job market outside of my university until I was working on my dissertation. I taught quite a bit as a grad student, and there's a certain amount of competition there, but it's not the same.
Susan: When you applied for the technical job you now hold, how did you list your degree on your resume? Did you try to make your degree relevant to your job objective, or did you lean solely on non-academic experience to support your application?
Jed: I applied and was accepted to be a Technical Assistant at a company that provides visual effects for the entertainment industry (we'll call it ABC), while finishing my dissertation. During the first three months on the job here, I spent my nights editing and tweaking. So I managed to file for my dissertation while ramping up at a job in a completely different career. When I applied at ABC, I was frank about my experience (near zero) and my educational background (almost completely inappropriate). My only hope was, as you said, pointing to my non-academic experience, to which I had devoted a fair bit of my time -- writing collaborative textbook software, educational software for the blind, my own research tools for searching the corpus of Greek and Latin texts on digital media, etc.
Susan: What advice do you have for job seekers with degrees that are unrelated to their job search?
Jed: I think in retrospect one thing I did right was to be frank and open about why I changed my mind about the career I wanted to follow. Now, when I interview job applicants for openings at ABC, I look for the story that comes out of the resume (and better, the cover letter, if they've written one), explaining the course of the applicant's interests and how he or she approaches new problems.
If people have been sincere about their passions, and done things that they like, I'm interested and I want to know more. What I don't want is for us to bring people in who just do things because they think they will look good on their resumes. That makes me feel like our company might just be a resume builder as well!
I want someone who is smart, intellectually flexible, able to learn new things on his or her feet quickly, good at working with people, articulate, and passionate. People with non-computer science backgrounds are shy about applying here, and strong computer science is certainly important; but by the same token, there are people with a formidable checklist of computer science credentials that I think are completely unhirable because they lack the broader qualities that we need in the talent we want to work with.
Also, if you're interested in working somewhere, and you don't think the published job description lines up perfectly with your skills or experience because they're asking for N years of something and you have N-2 or whatever, apply anyway. Do this for three reasons:
- You want to work there, so apply!
- I know from first-hand experience how hard it is for an employer to craft a job listing that will draw the perfect applicant. The listings are a clear but general picture, and they rarely describe the best applicant perfectly. That's because the best applicant brings to the table his or her own best qualities and these may ultimately outweigh any deficiencies. In particular, if an employer asks for "Quality X or Equivalent," this opens the door wide for you to define "equivalent."
- Even if you're not quite right for the listed job, a recruiter might see a good fit somewhere else in the organization, perhaps for a job that hasn't even been listed yet.
I'm not saying apply for things you are clearly unqualified for - that's annoying, and nobody likes to have their time wasted - but do apply for things you want to do and think you could be good at, and look forward to the chance to make your case in an interview.
Thank you very much for your insight, Jed. I wish you much success in your career! -- Susan
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
He Got the Job Through LinkedIn
This is a testimonial video about a guy who moved from his private consulting practise to full-time corporate employment. Especially helpful are the screen shots that show how a recruiter might have viewed his LinkedIn profile and then emailed him about the career opportunity.
Friday, August 01, 2008
Informational Interviewing
There may be job openings of interest to you that are not listed online or in newspapers, so reach beyond your keyboard for your job search. Ask friends and colleagues for in-person informational interviews. An informational interview is not a job interview -- it's a meeting with someone to ask them questions about their line of work to see if their occupation is one you might like to pursue. You could also conduct an informational interview with someone to ask if they know of job openings in your current line of work. Unlike a job interview, you are the one asking the questions. If informational interviewing is new to you, read What's an Informational Interview? to learn how to prepare for one.
Informational interviews help you explore new career options and job opportunities, while building your professional network.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Green Collar Jobs
Is green collar the new blue collar? It is for some, according to Fast Magazine's article, I'm Bad! I'm Slick!, by Linda Baker. In her article, Baker tells how "Oakland activist Van Jones is on a mission to bring green-collar jobs to the urban poor."
Since the dawn of the "green revolution," we've seen green collar jobs expand from scientists, engineers, and other R&D folks to contractors and home supply retailers. Van Jones is looking ahead to the labor force who will put the green technology and resources to use. He's organized training programs for low-income blue collar workers so they can be hired for specialized jobs in the sustainable construction industry. "Say a bunch of guys in the carpenter's union don't know how to work with bamboo. Well, here are some young people who have been trained to work with bamboo. Suddenly, rather than them being in the back of the blue collar line for the less-skilled blue-collar jobs, these kids have the advantage." (quote from Van Jones lifted from the article)
Here's my favorite quote from Van Jones (again, from the Fast Magazine article) about who's involved in our green economy: "Ph.Ds to Ph.Dudes." Are you a green Ph.D, Ph.Dude, or somewhere in between? If so, you might have a career opportunity waiting for you.
Since the dawn of the "green revolution," we've seen green collar jobs expand from scientists, engineers, and other R&D folks to contractors and home supply retailers. Van Jones is looking ahead to the labor force who will put the green technology and resources to use. He's organized training programs for low-income blue collar workers so they can be hired for specialized jobs in the sustainable construction industry. "Say a bunch of guys in the carpenter's union don't know how to work with bamboo. Well, here are some young people who have been trained to work with bamboo. Suddenly, rather than them being in the back of the blue collar line for the less-skilled blue-collar jobs, these kids have the advantage." (quote from Van Jones lifted from the article)
Here's my favorite quote from Van Jones (again, from the Fast Magazine article) about who's involved in our green economy: "Ph.Ds to Ph.Dudes." Are you a green Ph.D, Ph.Dude, or somewhere in between? If so, you might have a career opportunity waiting for you.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
A New Career at 52
Question
I've been a software developer for 13 years and just got laid off after only 3 months with the company. I am getting older (52) and don't have the energy I once had to work 50-60 hours a week. I would like to try a different career path and do something a little less stressful. Continue reading...
I've been a software developer for 13 years and just got laid off after only 3 months with the company. I am getting older (52) and don't have the energy I once had to work 50-60 hours a week. I would like to try a different career path and do something a little less stressful. Continue reading...
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Checkered Work History
Question
I have a checkered work history. I recently have been working in my assigned career field involving PC and LAN installations in major hotel chains and other chain stores, but this is only for a temporary installation. For 10 years I have mostly worked in the IT technical services field, but because of the nature of IT services, if you do not work directly for the employer you are working through one of their contract companies such as Volt. The reason why I am mentioning this is the fact that I have gaps in employment, and most recently had to take a low paying security job lasting four years because I could not find an IT job after September 11th and feel these contract companies will frown on it. I feel that as a male the gaps in my employment history are working against me.
Because of my low pay I could not afford to pay my wife’s living expenses and go to school to update my skills in IT services (such as obtaining my MCSE). I have worked in a low paying security position because my wife threatened to kick me out of the door unless I bring in some income. I have been chastised by at least one employer during the interview because of the security job, for not doing enough to elevate my job experience.
How can I explain in the cover letter that my work in security was necessary to pay the bills? Does it show a sense of desperation? It’s very depressing, and because of my security work my wife had to subsidize me to pay the bills, which put her into credit card debt on the order of $30k. The IT market is now rebounding here in Vancouver, BC but credentials from other countries are not recognized. For example, there are pilots, doctors, chemical engineers, and nurses who immigrated here and ended up working as vacuum salesmen, taxi cab drivers and in other low paying positions. So I could not go back into my former line of work as an automotive mechanic or aviation. How do I explain my work history in my cover letter or is that just shooting myself in the foot?
Sincerely,
Frustrated
Answer
by John West Hadley, Career Search Counselor, “Helping Job Seekers Who Are Frustrated With Their Search”
Before you even think about your cover letter, I would advise you to take a step back and carefully examine:
1. What is your career goal? Don’t think just about the job you want right now, imagine where you want it to lead, and what you want to be doing in 5-10 years.
2. What do you need to achieve your goal? What skills, type and depth of experience, and qualities will you need to demonstrate to be able to get there?
3. What would be a good next step in your career that would put you on the road to developing the package you will need?
4. How does the package you have today align with that next step? This is your ‘reality check’ where you take a good hard look at whether this is an achievable next step.
5. Network with others in the field and see what they think. Come up with your strongest marketing message, and results-oriented description of your package, and test-market yourself to those in your network. If you consistently hear that your chosen next step isn’t going to be achievable, find out from them what you would need to do to get there – is there a smaller next step you can take, or critical certifications or training that would make you marketable?
6. Given the multiple-year gap, seriously consider pursuing additional training or certifications anyway – these will show that you haven’t just been doing something unrelated, but have done some work to keep yourself fresh and marketable.
7. What is your set of past accomplishments that will help sell you for this role? Spend a lot of time turning those into compelling, concise results-oriented stories.
8. Does your resume perform its intended role as a strong sales brochure for your candidacy? Given the checkered history, you will probably need to take a ‘functional’ approach to your resume instead of the standard chronological format.
9. Now you can start to think about your cover letter.
Your cover letter needs to show your passion for the particular job, company and operation, so you will need to do a lot of research before composing it. Find people you can network with who work for the company now, or who used to work for the company, or who know something about the operation (e.g., vendors who provided the company services or consultants who have done work for them).
Your letter needs to make a convincing case for why you would be a great addition to their operation. Think about the issues they face that you can help them deal with. Include bullet points that describe related accomplishments and the results you produced for past employers.
The cover letter also needs to describe briefly the package of skills, qualities and experience that you bring to the table, as it is relevant to this role and company. It doesn’t need to repeat everything in your resume, but should highlight the critical pieces that would make a hiring manage sit up and take notice of you.
Finally, it needs to close with confidence. It shouldn’t just express your hope that they will agree to meet with you. The strongest letters assume they will want to bring you in, present dates you are available, and state a specific date and time you will follow up.
Now, to your question about what to reveal about your checkered work history: You need to admit to it, because otherwise you will lose any credibility when it is noticed. The trick is to state it simply, matter-of-factly, without dwelling on it, and then to move on to why the potential employer shouldn’t be concerned about it. Your message is, in effect, “Because of the economic downturn after 9/11, I took a stopgap position in security. In the interim, I have done x, y and z to stay abreast of the market. I’m now ready to return to (your target role), and here is why I believe I would be an outstanding candidate.”
I have a Career Tips email newsletter that each month presents valuable advice on marketing yourself for a career search. I invite you to check out the contents of past issues and then sign up at www.JHACareers.com/Newsletter.htm.
Good luck!
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
How about trying to slide back over into the high-tech field? Maybe you could identify a high-tech firm in Vancouver that you’d love to work in. Apply to that company for a position in security. Once you have that job, network within the company, learn about IT openings, and maybe you’ll have a better chance at winning the job as a company insider.
I have a checkered work history. I recently have been working in my assigned career field involving PC and LAN installations in major hotel chains and other chain stores, but this is only for a temporary installation. For 10 years I have mostly worked in the IT technical services field, but because of the nature of IT services, if you do not work directly for the employer you are working through one of their contract companies such as Volt. The reason why I am mentioning this is the fact that I have gaps in employment, and most recently had to take a low paying security job lasting four years because I could not find an IT job after September 11th and feel these contract companies will frown on it. I feel that as a male the gaps in my employment history are working against me.
Because of my low pay I could not afford to pay my wife’s living expenses and go to school to update my skills in IT services (such as obtaining my MCSE). I have worked in a low paying security position because my wife threatened to kick me out of the door unless I bring in some income. I have been chastised by at least one employer during the interview because of the security job, for not doing enough to elevate my job experience.
How can I explain in the cover letter that my work in security was necessary to pay the bills? Does it show a sense of desperation? It’s very depressing, and because of my security work my wife had to subsidize me to pay the bills, which put her into credit card debt on the order of $30k. The IT market is now rebounding here in Vancouver, BC but credentials from other countries are not recognized. For example, there are pilots, doctors, chemical engineers, and nurses who immigrated here and ended up working as vacuum salesmen, taxi cab drivers and in other low paying positions. So I could not go back into my former line of work as an automotive mechanic or aviation. How do I explain my work history in my cover letter or is that just shooting myself in the foot?
Sincerely,
Frustrated
Answer
by John West Hadley, Career Search Counselor, “Helping Job Seekers Who Are Frustrated With Their Search”
Before you even think about your cover letter, I would advise you to take a step back and carefully examine:
1. What is your career goal? Don’t think just about the job you want right now, imagine where you want it to lead, and what you want to be doing in 5-10 years.
2. What do you need to achieve your goal? What skills, type and depth of experience, and qualities will you need to demonstrate to be able to get there?
3. What would be a good next step in your career that would put you on the road to developing the package you will need?
4. How does the package you have today align with that next step? This is your ‘reality check’ where you take a good hard look at whether this is an achievable next step.
5. Network with others in the field and see what they think. Come up with your strongest marketing message, and results-oriented description of your package, and test-market yourself to those in your network. If you consistently hear that your chosen next step isn’t going to be achievable, find out from them what you would need to do to get there – is there a smaller next step you can take, or critical certifications or training that would make you marketable?
6. Given the multiple-year gap, seriously consider pursuing additional training or certifications anyway – these will show that you haven’t just been doing something unrelated, but have done some work to keep yourself fresh and marketable.
7. What is your set of past accomplishments that will help sell you for this role? Spend a lot of time turning those into compelling, concise results-oriented stories.
8. Does your resume perform its intended role as a strong sales brochure for your candidacy? Given the checkered history, you will probably need to take a ‘functional’ approach to your resume instead of the standard chronological format.
9. Now you can start to think about your cover letter.
Your cover letter needs to show your passion for the particular job, company and operation, so you will need to do a lot of research before composing it. Find people you can network with who work for the company now, or who used to work for the company, or who know something about the operation (e.g., vendors who provided the company services or consultants who have done work for them).
Your letter needs to make a convincing case for why you would be a great addition to their operation. Think about the issues they face that you can help them deal with. Include bullet points that describe related accomplishments and the results you produced for past employers.
The cover letter also needs to describe briefly the package of skills, qualities and experience that you bring to the table, as it is relevant to this role and company. It doesn’t need to repeat everything in your resume, but should highlight the critical pieces that would make a hiring manage sit up and take notice of you.
Finally, it needs to close with confidence. It shouldn’t just express your hope that they will agree to meet with you. The strongest letters assume they will want to bring you in, present dates you are available, and state a specific date and time you will follow up.
Now, to your question about what to reveal about your checkered work history: You need to admit to it, because otherwise you will lose any credibility when it is noticed. The trick is to state it simply, matter-of-factly, without dwelling on it, and then to move on to why the potential employer shouldn’t be concerned about it. Your message is, in effect, “Because of the economic downturn after 9/11, I took a stopgap position in security. In the interim, I have done x, y and z to stay abreast of the market. I’m now ready to return to (your target role), and here is why I believe I would be an outstanding candidate.”
I have a Career Tips email newsletter that each month presents valuable advice on marketing yourself for a career search. I invite you to check out the contents of past issues and then sign up at www.JHACareers.com/Newsletter.htm.
Good luck!
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
How about trying to slide back over into the high-tech field? Maybe you could identify a high-tech firm in Vancouver that you’d love to work in. Apply to that company for a position in security. Once you have that job, network within the company, learn about IT openings, and maybe you’ll have a better chance at winning the job as a company insider.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Not Addicted to Full-time Work
Question
I am getting ready to retire next year from addiction counseling in New York City. I would like to work flexible hours to supplement my income maybe outside of the field. What should I be doing now to prepare for next year and my new life?
Answer
by Steve Roesler, CEO, Steve Roesler Group
Let’s start with next year.
From a purely practical viewpoint, do take time now to complete the administrative parts of the retirement process: completing forms for pension, social security, and Medicare (if applicable). You’ll want to be sure that the checks begin arriving when your employment ends.
Your profession has given you a broad range of skills, not just in counseling but in administration. (Think intake and the related documentation processes).
1. Does the image of teaching captivate you? With your experience, you have the tools to educate others. There are colleges of all types in New York City, including Metropolitan College of New York, that offer certification programs for those wanting to become addiction counselors. Teaching in one of these schools might fulfill your desire for part-time work and give you some ongoing professional contact without the emotional demands of face-to-face counseling.
2. If the administrative part of your job was satisfying, most clinics look for staffers on a part-time basis. You probably have access to the list of clinics in New York City.
3. You mentioned the possibility of looking outside of your field. My experience has been that after many years in a profession, we sometimes lose track of all the possibilities that have cropped up out there while we’ve been working! Take a little time to go online and explore the opportunities and resources at RetirementJobs.com and the Senior Living section of about.com. These may stimulate your thinking and help you work through important questions related to your desired part-time situation.
Best wishes for a wonderful second half of life!
I am getting ready to retire next year from addiction counseling in New York City. I would like to work flexible hours to supplement my income maybe outside of the field. What should I be doing now to prepare for next year and my new life?
Answer
by Steve Roesler, CEO, Steve Roesler Group
Let’s start with next year.
From a purely practical viewpoint, do take time now to complete the administrative parts of the retirement process: completing forms for pension, social security, and Medicare (if applicable). You’ll want to be sure that the checks begin arriving when your employment ends.
Your profession has given you a broad range of skills, not just in counseling but in administration. (Think intake and the related documentation processes).
1. Does the image of teaching captivate you? With your experience, you have the tools to educate others. There are colleges of all types in New York City, including Metropolitan College of New York, that offer certification programs for those wanting to become addiction counselors. Teaching in one of these schools might fulfill your desire for part-time work and give you some ongoing professional contact without the emotional demands of face-to-face counseling.
2. If the administrative part of your job was satisfying, most clinics look for staffers on a part-time basis. You probably have access to the list of clinics in New York City.
3. You mentioned the possibility of looking outside of your field. My experience has been that after many years in a profession, we sometimes lose track of all the possibilities that have cropped up out there while we’ve been working! Take a little time to go online and explore the opportunities and resources at RetirementJobs.com and the Senior Living section of about.com. These may stimulate your thinking and help you work through important questions related to your desired part-time situation.
Best wishes for a wonderful second half of life!
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Too Old to Change Careers?
Questions
I am considering enrollment in a paralegal program close to my home. My past experience has been in the tech field and I am looking for a change. My question is: Am I too old to pursue a career as a paralegal where I could use my fluency in Spanish and some real estate experience? Do you think it is feasible or should I consider other alternatives?
I truly appreciate you candor on the subject and thank you in advance for your "needed" kind advice.
Answer
by Steve Roesler, CEO, Roesler Group
It seems as if you have both the energy and desire to continue (or change) your career. Both of those trump chronological age every time. So let’s look at the situation:
Why are you moving from the tech field to paralegal? And why paralegal?
It’s fine to do so. Just be sure that you have thought through the implications of a different kind of working atmosphere and whether it suits your personality and working style. Penelope Trunk’s blog, Brazen Careerist, will give you some interesting insights regarding career changes.
Employers in all industries value bi-lingual skills. Your background in real estate would give you an edge with a firm that specializes in Real Estate law, a field that has and is looking to increase its Spanish-speaking clientele.
How will you find the best match? I would suggest that you ask about job placement at the paralegal school you are considering. Many, if not most certification schools, help with the placement process. It would also be a good idea to explore a couple of other institutions to get a more complete sense of who might have a track record that would be most helpful in your ultimate job search. And, there are certificate programs available online at such places as Kaplan University and AIPS (American Institute for Paralegal Studies).
I wish you all the best with your decision!
Steve Roesler is President/CEO of Roesler Group, a consulting firm with a 30-year history of building individual and organizational growth and performance.
I am considering enrollment in a paralegal program close to my home. My past experience has been in the tech field and I am looking for a change. My question is: Am I too old to pursue a career as a paralegal where I could use my fluency in Spanish and some real estate experience? Do you think it is feasible or should I consider other alternatives?
I truly appreciate you candor on the subject and thank you in advance for your "needed" kind advice.
Answer
by Steve Roesler, CEO, Roesler Group
It seems as if you have both the energy and desire to continue (or change) your career. Both of those trump chronological age every time. So let’s look at the situation:
Why are you moving from the tech field to paralegal? And why paralegal?
It’s fine to do so. Just be sure that you have thought through the implications of a different kind of working atmosphere and whether it suits your personality and working style. Penelope Trunk’s blog, Brazen Careerist, will give you some interesting insights regarding career changes.
Employers in all industries value bi-lingual skills. Your background in real estate would give you an edge with a firm that specializes in Real Estate law, a field that has and is looking to increase its Spanish-speaking clientele.
How will you find the best match? I would suggest that you ask about job placement at the paralegal school you are considering. Many, if not most certification schools, help with the placement process. It would also be a good idea to explore a couple of other institutions to get a more complete sense of who might have a track record that would be most helpful in your ultimate job search. And, there are certificate programs available online at such places as Kaplan University and AIPS (American Institute for Paralegal Studies).
I wish you all the best with your decision!
Steve Roesler is President/CEO of Roesler Group, a consulting firm with a 30-year history of building individual and organizational growth and performance.
Friday, May 11, 2007
Making Ends Meet in a Tight Job Market
Question
My husband, age 59, lost his job 6 months ago and seems to have exhausted the job market here (a small western city), trying to find any work, let alone work that uses his skills, abilities and experience (he has a masters degree and some work toward a doctorate, is an experienced adjunct university teacher and published writer).
I've had the same management-level job for 15 years at a small non-profit agency (I'm 52). The pay is not great, but the job provides health insurance and retirement -- for me. But my job doesn’t pay quite enough to meet our monthly bills, even though we live very frugally. We'd have to move to a small apartment to live within my income, unless I could find a better paying job here, which, when I've looked, hasn't been that promising with the skills I have.
We are debt-free, own our cars. We have no children or elderly relatives to support. We have savings of about $35,000, which we are now starting to tap into for monthly living expenses.
Question: Keeping our ages in mind, do we give up my steady income and move to a larger city, which would hopefully have better job opportunities for us? Risk that we could find decent jobs with benefits before the $35,000 runs out? Or do we stay here, downgrade our housing, and hope one or both of us can eventually find something better?
Thanks for the input.
MZ
Answer
by Richard Yadon, CPC, President/CEO, Health Career Professionals
There isn't a simple answer to your question. It has as much to do with your personal preference and preferred lifestyle as it does with employment. Only you can answer this question, but let me give you some personal perspective that might help you reach a conclusion.
I would avoid tapping into your savings. You've done a great job by staying out of debt and living on a budget. Whatever you should decide to do, be sure you stay out of debt, preserve your savings, and live within your means. You might want to check into attending a Financial Peace course near your home. This will give you more financial planning tools, ideas, and resources. You can go to daveramsey.com for more financial advice and locations of the course.
As for employment you seem to only have two choices – stay and hope something turns up or move to where you can be hired. Unless your skills and industry experience are very specialized, it is unlikely that the job market for you will change drastically in the short-term. That means if you are having trouble finding work now, you will continue to have a hard time in the near future.
Checking Monster or Career Builder for jobs that match your skill and experience will help you determine where people like you are finding work. You might also talk with a recruiter that places people with your backgrounds. The recruiter can give you insight into your employment possibilities.
Richard Yadon is President/CEO of Health Career Professionals, an executive search and employee development company focused in the healthcare industry.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Your husband might find some consulting or employment ideas through his university career center, through his trade publications, online newsletters, or relevant websites. Perhaps he can work from home, writing for a publication or website that specializes in his field. Or, if he’s even a little web savvy, he could start his own website or blog, and learn how to use online advertising (like Google Adsense) to earn a little extra income.
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
My husband, age 59, lost his job 6 months ago and seems to have exhausted the job market here (a small western city), trying to find any work, let alone work that uses his skills, abilities and experience (he has a masters degree and some work toward a doctorate, is an experienced adjunct university teacher and published writer).
I've had the same management-level job for 15 years at a small non-profit agency (I'm 52). The pay is not great, but the job provides health insurance and retirement -- for me. But my job doesn’t pay quite enough to meet our monthly bills, even though we live very frugally. We'd have to move to a small apartment to live within my income, unless I could find a better paying job here, which, when I've looked, hasn't been that promising with the skills I have.
We are debt-free, own our cars. We have no children or elderly relatives to support. We have savings of about $35,000, which we are now starting to tap into for monthly living expenses.
Question: Keeping our ages in mind, do we give up my steady income and move to a larger city, which would hopefully have better job opportunities for us? Risk that we could find decent jobs with benefits before the $35,000 runs out? Or do we stay here, downgrade our housing, and hope one or both of us can eventually find something better?
Thanks for the input.
MZ
Answer
by Richard Yadon, CPC, President/CEO, Health Career Professionals
There isn't a simple answer to your question. It has as much to do with your personal preference and preferred lifestyle as it does with employment. Only you can answer this question, but let me give you some personal perspective that might help you reach a conclusion.
I would avoid tapping into your savings. You've done a great job by staying out of debt and living on a budget. Whatever you should decide to do, be sure you stay out of debt, preserve your savings, and live within your means. You might want to check into attending a Financial Peace course near your home. This will give you more financial planning tools, ideas, and resources. You can go to daveramsey.com for more financial advice and locations of the course.
As for employment you seem to only have two choices – stay and hope something turns up or move to where you can be hired. Unless your skills and industry experience are very specialized, it is unlikely that the job market for you will change drastically in the short-term. That means if you are having trouble finding work now, you will continue to have a hard time in the near future.
Checking Monster or Career Builder for jobs that match your skill and experience will help you determine where people like you are finding work. You might also talk with a recruiter that places people with your backgrounds. The recruiter can give you insight into your employment possibilities.
Richard Yadon is President/CEO of Health Career Professionals, an executive search and employee development company focused in the healthcare industry.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Your husband might find some consulting or employment ideas through his university career center, through his trade publications, online newsletters, or relevant websites. Perhaps he can work from home, writing for a publication or website that specializes in his field. Or, if he’s even a little web savvy, he could start his own website or blog, and learn how to use online advertising (like Google Adsense) to earn a little extra income.
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Switching Careers Again at 46
Question
My situation concerns several areas. The first is that as a 46 year old male I am aware of and concerned about age discrimination. I have been employed in the human services field for the last five years and our site has recently lost its funding. This was anticipated; during the end of the last quarter of 2006 we were informed about the eventual closing of our site but not offered any transitional positions or assistance.
That’s ok; I’ve learned to look forward. I would like to remain in the human services field because I really enjoy the work. It’s very satisfying although, unfortunately, the salary is not.
I have thirteen years experience in the medical claims processing field prior to this at various health insurers (three). In between I decided to make a change of career and left the insurance field in 1999 and studied pastry. I quickly learned that 12 hour shifts in a small pastry station did not go well with a forty year old back.
The most experience I was able to get was from my externship which went well but I wound up taking a job as a career sales agent for a major life insurer after obtaining the required state license. This wound up being the hardest job of my life and lasted only 8-9 months. During this period 9/11 occurred and I could not re-enter the medical insurance field no matter what I tried. I was hurt because I always left my previous jobs in insurance (health/medical) on good terms. I then spent another 5 months selling food service equipment.
Throughout all this I never finished my college education. My course study was public administration which I have honestly lost interest in (80 credits) and I am now studying on-line in the IT field. I do know that I am paying the cost for years of poor study habits but am concerned that my resume will look like I am unable to finish what I start. I am also trained as a paralegal.
How can I effectively reintroduce myself to the health insurance field? My experience ranges from: subscriber relations, correspondence assistant, quality assurance analyst, claims examiner.
Thank you,
Joseph
Answer
by Bridget Oakes, Senior Search Consultant
Joseph, thanks for the question. I think this is something that many people have struggled with recently, when they’ve transitioned out of a troubled industry, taken “what’s available” and are now finding it difficult to make their way back into their field of choice.
From your email, it appears as though you left the health insurance field about 8 years ago and since then have worked as a pastry chef, a food equipment sales person, life insurance sales person and most recently in human services. I’m guessing you have about 5 years experience in human services.
If I were evaluating you for an opportunity with my organization, it’s likely I could come away with the impression that either you don’t finish what you start or you can’t decide what you want to be when you “grow up,” neither of which are good things for a hiring manager, HR representative, or recruiter to think about you.
So, how do you address this? First we need to clarify and cement your objective.
From your email, I’m confused as to your career objective. Either you would like to remain in the human services field because you really enjoy the work or you are trying to find out how to effectively reintroduce yourself to the health insurance field.
If we assume that you’re looking to get back into the health insurance field, you’re going to have an uphill battle.
But here are the basics (which actually apply to any job search):
Structure your Resume for Greatest Impact:
I would suggest that you write your resume in a functional format. This format groups experience and accomplishments by functional area, and allows you to bring relevant information of past positions to the top of your resume.
An exceptionally strong summary statement will be necessary as well. This should state your objective, clarify your career goals, and provide an overview of what you can bring to an organization or company.
I suggest this because, to be absolutely honest, if, as a recruiter, I don’t see what I’m looking for in the first page of a resume, I usually don’t bother to turn the page.
I’m sure that the professional resume writers that contribute to the Job Lounge would have better advice on this topic.
Don’t Rely on Your Resume:
You need to market yourself aggressively. This is my best piece of advice for anyone looking to make a career change. Make a list of target companies and call them, find out who manages the group you’d be interested in joining and call that person. Introduce yourself, explain that you are exploring a return to the industry and “pitch” your experience and qualifications. (This is “recruiting in reverse” and can be a great way to get your foot in the door.) The goal here is to get your name and information to the decision maker. If that decision maker likes you, the objections that Human Resources will likely have regarding your background will be minimized.
Bridget Oakes is a Senior Search Consultant with Partners in Technology. With nearly 10 years experience in executive search and recruiting, she is well equipped to provide advice and guidance to candidates searching for new careers, and welcomes the opportunity to do so through Job Lounge.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
I love this post: I’m a Damn Happy Jack by Lisa, who had a 15-year stint in the healthcare industry before changing “jobs” again to become an entrepreneur. Her entire post is worth reading but here are a few excerpts:
Lisa goes on to talk about why she thinks most job seekers change jobs and careers so often:
She then lists the 18 (count them!) jobs she’s held in her 25-year worklife.
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
My situation concerns several areas. The first is that as a 46 year old male I am aware of and concerned about age discrimination. I have been employed in the human services field for the last five years and our site has recently lost its funding. This was anticipated; during the end of the last quarter of 2006 we were informed about the eventual closing of our site but not offered any transitional positions or assistance.
That’s ok; I’ve learned to look forward. I would like to remain in the human services field because I really enjoy the work. It’s very satisfying although, unfortunately, the salary is not.
I have thirteen years experience in the medical claims processing field prior to this at various health insurers (three). In between I decided to make a change of career and left the insurance field in 1999 and studied pastry. I quickly learned that 12 hour shifts in a small pastry station did not go well with a forty year old back.
The most experience I was able to get was from my externship which went well but I wound up taking a job as a career sales agent for a major life insurer after obtaining the required state license. This wound up being the hardest job of my life and lasted only 8-9 months. During this period 9/11 occurred and I could not re-enter the medical insurance field no matter what I tried. I was hurt because I always left my previous jobs in insurance (health/medical) on good terms. I then spent another 5 months selling food service equipment.
Throughout all this I never finished my college education. My course study was public administration which I have honestly lost interest in (80 credits) and I am now studying on-line in the IT field. I do know that I am paying the cost for years of poor study habits but am concerned that my resume will look like I am unable to finish what I start. I am also trained as a paralegal.
How can I effectively reintroduce myself to the health insurance field? My experience ranges from: subscriber relations, correspondence assistant, quality assurance analyst, claims examiner.
Thank you,
Joseph
Answer
by Bridget Oakes, Senior Search Consultant
Joseph, thanks for the question. I think this is something that many people have struggled with recently, when they’ve transitioned out of a troubled industry, taken “what’s available” and are now finding it difficult to make their way back into their field of choice.
From your email, it appears as though you left the health insurance field about 8 years ago and since then have worked as a pastry chef, a food equipment sales person, life insurance sales person and most recently in human services. I’m guessing you have about 5 years experience in human services.
If I were evaluating you for an opportunity with my organization, it’s likely I could come away with the impression that either you don’t finish what you start or you can’t decide what you want to be when you “grow up,” neither of which are good things for a hiring manager, HR representative, or recruiter to think about you.
So, how do you address this? First we need to clarify and cement your objective.
From your email, I’m confused as to your career objective. Either you would like to remain in the human services field because you really enjoy the work or you are trying to find out how to effectively reintroduce yourself to the health insurance field.
If we assume that you’re looking to get back into the health insurance field, you’re going to have an uphill battle.
But here are the basics (which actually apply to any job search):
Structure your Resume for Greatest Impact:
I would suggest that you write your resume in a functional format. This format groups experience and accomplishments by functional area, and allows you to bring relevant information of past positions to the top of your resume.
An exceptionally strong summary statement will be necessary as well. This should state your objective, clarify your career goals, and provide an overview of what you can bring to an organization or company.
I suggest this because, to be absolutely honest, if, as a recruiter, I don’t see what I’m looking for in the first page of a resume, I usually don’t bother to turn the page.
I’m sure that the professional resume writers that contribute to the Job Lounge would have better advice on this topic.
Don’t Rely on Your Resume:
You need to market yourself aggressively. This is my best piece of advice for anyone looking to make a career change. Make a list of target companies and call them, find out who manages the group you’d be interested in joining and call that person. Introduce yourself, explain that you are exploring a return to the industry and “pitch” your experience and qualifications. (This is “recruiting in reverse” and can be a great way to get your foot in the door.) The goal here is to get your name and information to the decision maker. If that decision maker likes you, the objections that Human Resources will likely have regarding your background will be minimized.
Bridget Oakes is a Senior Search Consultant with Partners in Technology. With nearly 10 years experience in executive search and recruiting, she is well equipped to provide advice and guidance to candidates searching for new careers, and welcomes the opportunity to do so through Job Lounge.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
I love this post: I’m a Damn Happy Jack by Lisa, who had a 15-year stint in the healthcare industry before changing “jobs” again to become an entrepreneur. Her entire post is worth reading but here are a few excerpts:
I don't know who it was that said that "the average person will change careers at least seven times," but they were wrong. I think the number is more like twenty. How many jobs does it take us to really get that it's not the job that defines the man? Our jobs may change and so might the title on our business card. People might respond to us differently depending on the profession we claim ourselves to be a part of. All of this doesn't matter. What matters is whether or not we enjoy the work we do.
Lisa goes on to talk about why she thinks most job seekers change jobs and careers so often:
Many of us have had so many jobs or have held several jobs at the same time because we're passionate about a lot of things.
She then lists the 18 (count them!) jobs she’s held in her 25-year worklife.
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
Monday, April 02, 2007
A Job Where You Are Valued
Question
I would really appreciate some advice. I am 56 years old and am finding my age and inconsistent job history to be a definite factor when interviewing. The County Job Services people were kind enough to help me put my resume together but I am inept at cover letters. I have no idea how to start a cover letter and yet people tell me I write very well.
I can sell snowballs to Eskimos but cannot sell myself which is obvious by my unsuccessful job search for basically the last year. I don’t know what to do. Do you have any suggestions? God Bless You for Your Kindness
-- Diane.
Answer
by Honey Smith, Professional Life Coach
The job search in mid-life has unique joys and challenges. On one hand, you find yourself in the position of justifying the rich life you’ve led and the choices you’ve made; especially if they don’t fit into conventional patterns. On the other hand, this richness makes for a powerful cocktail of skills and perspectives that you bring to the table. The trick is to choose (or create) the table where your unique qualities are valued and not dismissed. Once you’ve figured this out, then it’s a matter of creating a resume that makes it obvious to all why you and the job are a perfect fit.
At 56, your work goals may be very different from what they were ten or twenty years ago – and understandably so! Forget for a moment about who will or won’t hire you. Focus on what is most important to you right now. Is it all about income and/or financial security? Do you want to learn a new skill, have an impact on others or contribute to a cause that matters to you? Are you seeking stability, appreciation, status, power, connection with other people?
Once you’re clear on what you want out of work, consider these questions:
What was consistent (and a noteworthy skill) throughout my “inconsistent” job history?
For example, you may be a project-oriented person who loves variety and the challenge of the new. You may excel at short-term, highly focused jobs that tend to have deadlines and a sense of completion. You might also be a person who has consistently chosen to value commitments outside of work – such as raising a family, or dealing with health matters over staying with one job or career. What does this tell you about your ability to commit and to follow through in your life? How would you communicate these strengths in a resume?
Ask yourself: What do I speak about with natural confidence? In what situations (work and non-work) have I been at my best?
You wrote that you can “sell snowballs to Eskimos”. So, what makes it hard to “sell” yourself? This is not to say that it’s all in your head. It is time consuming to create a resume and cover letter, especially given today’s increased expectations. You don’t have to do it alone. There are resources - such as Susan Ireland’s book The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Perfect Resume – which can help you choose the resume and cover format that’s right for you. You may also want to refer to increasing numbers of studies that show that older workers are great investments for companies and check out where older workers are getting those jobs.
Perhaps the most useful question you can ask yourself is: What kind of work environment do I want to be in? Organizations have different “cultures”. Some, especially start-ups, newly expanding or slightly out-of-the-way companies often prefer people who’ve lived life a little out of the box. They often have less need of stable managerial types who’ve stuck with one thing and instead value people who are creative, energetic, have broad experience and the flexibility to “go with the flow”. Moreover, these kinds of companies don’t always have the luxury to offer high salaries and fancy packages – so they’re more willing to gamble on less conventional employees.
One last thought, many people like you decide to start their own businesses. Entrepreneurship is not for everybody and has its own tradeoffs. But self-employment allows for a lot of creativity and freedom to be your own boss. If you haven’t found the “perfect job” so far, here’s your shot at seeing how close you can get.
Again, it goes back to what is most important to you right now.
Good Luck and remember to go where you are valued!
Honey Smith, Ed.M., is a Professional Life Coach who helps job seekers fast forward their careers, master life transitions and fulfill their potential.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
On his Dumb Little Man Tips on Life blog, Jay put together a list of his recommended resources on 100+ Ways to Write a Resume Cover Letter.
And take a look at the Cover Letter Guide and samples on my site: susanireland.com.
I would really appreciate some advice. I am 56 years old and am finding my age and inconsistent job history to be a definite factor when interviewing. The County Job Services people were kind enough to help me put my resume together but I am inept at cover letters. I have no idea how to start a cover letter and yet people tell me I write very well.
I can sell snowballs to Eskimos but cannot sell myself which is obvious by my unsuccessful job search for basically the last year. I don’t know what to do. Do you have any suggestions? God Bless You for Your Kindness
-- Diane.
Answer
by Honey Smith, Professional Life Coach
The job search in mid-life has unique joys and challenges. On one hand, you find yourself in the position of justifying the rich life you’ve led and the choices you’ve made; especially if they don’t fit into conventional patterns. On the other hand, this richness makes for a powerful cocktail of skills and perspectives that you bring to the table. The trick is to choose (or create) the table where your unique qualities are valued and not dismissed. Once you’ve figured this out, then it’s a matter of creating a resume that makes it obvious to all why you and the job are a perfect fit.
At 56, your work goals may be very different from what they were ten or twenty years ago – and understandably so! Forget for a moment about who will or won’t hire you. Focus on what is most important to you right now. Is it all about income and/or financial security? Do you want to learn a new skill, have an impact on others or contribute to a cause that matters to you? Are you seeking stability, appreciation, status, power, connection with other people?
Once you’re clear on what you want out of work, consider these questions:
What was consistent (and a noteworthy skill) throughout my “inconsistent” job history?
For example, you may be a project-oriented person who loves variety and the challenge of the new. You may excel at short-term, highly focused jobs that tend to have deadlines and a sense of completion. You might also be a person who has consistently chosen to value commitments outside of work – such as raising a family, or dealing with health matters over staying with one job or career. What does this tell you about your ability to commit and to follow through in your life? How would you communicate these strengths in a resume?
Ask yourself: What do I speak about with natural confidence? In what situations (work and non-work) have I been at my best?
You wrote that you can “sell snowballs to Eskimos”. So, what makes it hard to “sell” yourself? This is not to say that it’s all in your head. It is time consuming to create a resume and cover letter, especially given today’s increased expectations. You don’t have to do it alone. There are resources - such as Susan Ireland’s book The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Perfect Resume – which can help you choose the resume and cover format that’s right for you. You may also want to refer to increasing numbers of studies that show that older workers are great investments for companies and check out where older workers are getting those jobs.
Perhaps the most useful question you can ask yourself is: What kind of work environment do I want to be in? Organizations have different “cultures”. Some, especially start-ups, newly expanding or slightly out-of-the-way companies often prefer people who’ve lived life a little out of the box. They often have less need of stable managerial types who’ve stuck with one thing and instead value people who are creative, energetic, have broad experience and the flexibility to “go with the flow”. Moreover, these kinds of companies don’t always have the luxury to offer high salaries and fancy packages – so they’re more willing to gamble on less conventional employees.
One last thought, many people like you decide to start their own businesses. Entrepreneurship is not for everybody and has its own tradeoffs. But self-employment allows for a lot of creativity and freedom to be your own boss. If you haven’t found the “perfect job” so far, here’s your shot at seeing how close you can get.
Again, it goes back to what is most important to you right now.
Good Luck and remember to go where you are valued!
Honey Smith, Ed.M., is a Professional Life Coach who helps job seekers fast forward their careers, master life transitions and fulfill their potential.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
On his Dumb Little Man Tips on Life blog, Jay put together a list of his recommended resources on 100+ Ways to Write a Resume Cover Letter.
And take a look at the Cover Letter Guide and samples on my site: susanireland.com.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
New Career Horizons
Question
I'm 46 years old and have been working since the age of 14. Suddenly I find myself unemployed for the first time in my life!
My problem is that I've worked in several different areas of employment and I'm not sure how to approach the hiring market. I have 9 years in the jewelry industry and have certifications as a Graduate Gemologist from the GIA in NY. I also have worked in the medical field for almost 8 years and have a certificate as a registered medical assistant and x-ray license in Florida (not good anywhere else unfortunately). My experience in the corporate world is for almost the same length of time and I'm really torn as to how to approach each market.
Since I have 17 months before my last leaves for college (I'm a single mom), I want to make sure I'm available during nights and weekends for that time period. I'm also finding that many companies advertise or post positions that they fill from within the company, but are using the postings to meet the EOE requirements.... It gets crazy going to an interview only to follow up and find out that they hired someone from their own company for the spot.
Sorry there is so much to address here. I guess the most pressing question would be: Do you have any recommendations on how to approach the workforce with such a diversified resume???
Thanks, Carabeth
Answer
by Townsend Belisle, former Professional Headhunter
Hello Carabeth,
I can hear the frustration in your words and the challenges you’ve faced given your situation. And I know you’re not alone. We’ve all found ourselves at an odd career crossroads at some point – especially because we find ourselves living in a time where, unlike our parents or grandparents, we don’t keep the same, tenured (and pensioned) job for 40+years, nor do we even stay in the same industry. Here are some thoughts based on your circumstances that I hope will shed some light - and will potentially change your perception and possibly inspire you to try a new approach.
First, perhaps you could find those companies who desire and celebrate your diverse background. Many companies are not just looking for worker bees but specifically seek talent with experience across many industries. The theory is that by bringing your best practices to their environment, you could create new and different ideas to the process (or products to the marketplace). For example, perhaps the manufacturer of the microscope you used (while a Gemologist) or x-ray machine you mastered (while a Medical Assistant) would welcome someone with “hands-on” or “in-market” experience like you, to tell them how to do what they’ve done, better.
Second, consider writing a resume that focuses more on your skills than your titles. For example, I could quickly guess that with some of your experience, you definitely have an exceptional eye for detail. You can catch the flaws, or spot perfection quickly. Then you could learn to speak of your experience not as a “Gemologist turned Medical Assistant” but as a “highly-detailed quality assurance expert.”
Third, use your connections. Tell everyone that you’re looking for new work – and speak of it matter-of-factly, because you’re confident that the next (ideal) job is out there. When speaking with friends, classmates, fellow moms or family, tell them you’re open to any of their ideas about what you could do. And ask your kid! Perhaps he or she will offer up a job scenario or a specific opening that you couldn’t have thought of yourself. You could also try some other means of networking: your school, your child’s school or daycare, the local café, your church… or you could check out the online networks through LinkedIn, MeetUp or those Associations from previous work.
Finally, try to connect with companies who’d hire you for you, and not you for your resume. Most smaller companies focus less on a resume and more on your personality. I’ve presented to clients some talent that were missing most of the requisite experience based on a job posting – only to find that the company quickly hired the talent, with a manager noting, “I just liked her and felt confident she could do the job.” Whenever you find yourself enticed by a nice friend or even a nice stranger, ask them where they work and if they like it.
Still having trouble figuring out that next career? See this Job Lounge post, where I list a few ideas about how to get inspired about what you really want to do.
But the best thing you’re doing right now is being a good mum. Of all things, concentrating enough on raising your kids is an investment that will pay you for years to come.
“I've learned that every working mom is a superwoman. For most of the world, it's really a necessity.” ~ Uma Thurman
Townsend Belisle’s favorite title is “dad.” While he’s held 12 other job titles throughout his 20-year career, his key expertise has remained: mediating between creative people and business people. He prefers to work with people who have diverse backgrounds and he is constantly trying to connect people to others with whom they would find synergy.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
I'm 46 years old and have been working since the age of 14. Suddenly I find myself unemployed for the first time in my life!
My problem is that I've worked in several different areas of employment and I'm not sure how to approach the hiring market. I have 9 years in the jewelry industry and have certifications as a Graduate Gemologist from the GIA in NY. I also have worked in the medical field for almost 8 years and have a certificate as a registered medical assistant and x-ray license in Florida (not good anywhere else unfortunately). My experience in the corporate world is for almost the same length of time and I'm really torn as to how to approach each market.
Since I have 17 months before my last leaves for college (I'm a single mom), I want to make sure I'm available during nights and weekends for that time period. I'm also finding that many companies advertise or post positions that they fill from within the company, but are using the postings to meet the EOE requirements.... It gets crazy going to an interview only to follow up and find out that they hired someone from their own company for the spot.
Sorry there is so much to address here. I guess the most pressing question would be: Do you have any recommendations on how to approach the workforce with such a diversified resume???
Thanks, Carabeth
Answer
by Townsend Belisle, former Professional Headhunter
Hello Carabeth,
I can hear the frustration in your words and the challenges you’ve faced given your situation. And I know you’re not alone. We’ve all found ourselves at an odd career crossroads at some point – especially because we find ourselves living in a time where, unlike our parents or grandparents, we don’t keep the same, tenured (and pensioned) job for 40+years, nor do we even stay in the same industry. Here are some thoughts based on your circumstances that I hope will shed some light - and will potentially change your perception and possibly inspire you to try a new approach.
First, perhaps you could find those companies who desire and celebrate your diverse background. Many companies are not just looking for worker bees but specifically seek talent with experience across many industries. The theory is that by bringing your best practices to their environment, you could create new and different ideas to the process (or products to the marketplace). For example, perhaps the manufacturer of the microscope you used (while a Gemologist) or x-ray machine you mastered (while a Medical Assistant) would welcome someone with “hands-on” or “in-market” experience like you, to tell them how to do what they’ve done, better.
Second, consider writing a resume that focuses more on your skills than your titles. For example, I could quickly guess that with some of your experience, you definitely have an exceptional eye for detail. You can catch the flaws, or spot perfection quickly. Then you could learn to speak of your experience not as a “Gemologist turned Medical Assistant” but as a “highly-detailed quality assurance expert.”
Third, use your connections. Tell everyone that you’re looking for new work – and speak of it matter-of-factly, because you’re confident that the next (ideal) job is out there. When speaking with friends, classmates, fellow moms or family, tell them you’re open to any of their ideas about what you could do. And ask your kid! Perhaps he or she will offer up a job scenario or a specific opening that you couldn’t have thought of yourself. You could also try some other means of networking: your school, your child’s school or daycare, the local café, your church… or you could check out the online networks through LinkedIn, MeetUp or those Associations from previous work.
Finally, try to connect with companies who’d hire you for you, and not you for your resume. Most smaller companies focus less on a resume and more on your personality. I’ve presented to clients some talent that were missing most of the requisite experience based on a job posting – only to find that the company quickly hired the talent, with a manager noting, “I just liked her and felt confident she could do the job.” Whenever you find yourself enticed by a nice friend or even a nice stranger, ask them where they work and if they like it.
Still having trouble figuring out that next career? See this Job Lounge post, where I list a few ideas about how to get inspired about what you really want to do.
But the best thing you’re doing right now is being a good mum. Of all things, concentrating enough on raising your kids is an investment that will pay you for years to come.
“I've learned that every working mom is a superwoman. For most of the world, it's really a necessity.” ~ Uma Thurman
Townsend Belisle’s favorite title is “dad.” While he’s held 12 other job titles throughout his 20-year career, his key expertise has remained: mediating between creative people and business people. He prefers to work with people who have diverse backgrounds and he is constantly trying to connect people to others with whom they would find synergy.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Career Change at 55
Question
My resume hasn't been updated for over 10 years. I've been in the newspaper business for about 15 years now and I just hate it. There's no room for advancement. The depression is unbelievable.
I will be almost 55 yrs old and I do not know how to change my resume. I have a degree in illustration and rendering. But I have not been able to use my talent. I would love to work at the field museum. But I don't know were to start. I'm sorry if I feel confused and frustrated. I just don't know were to start. I hate having to be stuck in a job just to say I have one. Can you help me?
-- Joan
Answer
by Catherine Sutton, Professional Resume Writer
Dear Joan,
No one should have to stay in a job they hate. There really are possibilities out there that would satisfy you and make you feel glad to get up in the morning. I suggest contacting a good career coach first of all.
There are probably some free resources at your local One Stop Center, your library, and, of course, online. You could ask people you know to recommend a coach or call the career coach on Susan Ireland’s team, Roberta Rosen at 415-885-4804. (Roberta works with clients by phone if they don’t live in her area, which is San Francisco.)
Another step to take you in the right direction would be to call the field museum (or anywhere else that you think you might like to work) and ask if you can come in and talk to someone to find out what positions people hold there and what skills and abilities those positions require. This is called an “informational interview.” This type of interview is just what it says – for gathering information – and you initiate the meeting. You don’t need a resume for this. In fact it’s better if you simply focus on gathering information at this stage.
The next step is to craft a resume that will catch the attention of your chosen target. By now you are in a much better position because you have an idea how your talents and abilities would fit that workplace.
One of the main mistakes people make is to think that a resume is all about their past. Oh no! A resume is about your future. A good resume shows how you could contribute to the position you have in mind. Isn’t it great to know you don’t have to repeat those tasks you hate to doing?!
When writing your resume, put yourself in your prospective new employer’s shoes (you could simply imagine your ideal new situation) and think of your relevant projects and accomplishments that you’re proud of. Those accomplishments don’t have to be at work and they don’t have to be recent.
Write a short description (two or three lines max) for each accomplishment you think of and make sure you say where you did it. Was it for the newspaper? Say so. Was it a drawing you did at home that caught the subject particularly well? Include details like numbers or dollar figures if you can, or focus on how you overcame challenges.
It’s much better to describe specific, accountable accomplishments of your own rather than copying boring and general statements that you see on other people’s resumes. And I suggest you start from scratch rather than trying to update your old resume. You’ll like the result much better.
Check out the Damn Good Resume website where you’ll get some great hot tips that really work. And you’ll get more excellent advice.
Good luck! I’m excited for you!
My resume hasn't been updated for over 10 years. I've been in the newspaper business for about 15 years now and I just hate it. There's no room for advancement. The depression is unbelievable.
I will be almost 55 yrs old and I do not know how to change my resume. I have a degree in illustration and rendering. But I have not been able to use my talent. I would love to work at the field museum. But I don't know were to start. I'm sorry if I feel confused and frustrated. I just don't know were to start. I hate having to be stuck in a job just to say I have one. Can you help me?
-- Joan
Answer
by Catherine Sutton, Professional Resume Writer
Dear Joan,
No one should have to stay in a job they hate. There really are possibilities out there that would satisfy you and make you feel glad to get up in the morning. I suggest contacting a good career coach first of all.
There are probably some free resources at your local One Stop Center, your library, and, of course, online. You could ask people you know to recommend a coach or call the career coach on Susan Ireland’s team, Roberta Rosen at 415-885-4804. (Roberta works with clients by phone if they don’t live in her area, which is San Francisco.)
Another step to take you in the right direction would be to call the field museum (or anywhere else that you think you might like to work) and ask if you can come in and talk to someone to find out what positions people hold there and what skills and abilities those positions require. This is called an “informational interview.” This type of interview is just what it says – for gathering information – and you initiate the meeting. You don’t need a resume for this. In fact it’s better if you simply focus on gathering information at this stage.
The next step is to craft a resume that will catch the attention of your chosen target. By now you are in a much better position because you have an idea how your talents and abilities would fit that workplace.
One of the main mistakes people make is to think that a resume is all about their past. Oh no! A resume is about your future. A good resume shows how you could contribute to the position you have in mind. Isn’t it great to know you don’t have to repeat those tasks you hate to doing?!
When writing your resume, put yourself in your prospective new employer’s shoes (you could simply imagine your ideal new situation) and think of your relevant projects and accomplishments that you’re proud of. Those accomplishments don’t have to be at work and they don’t have to be recent.
Write a short description (two or three lines max) for each accomplishment you think of and make sure you say where you did it. Was it for the newspaper? Say so. Was it a drawing you did at home that caught the subject particularly well? Include details like numbers or dollar figures if you can, or focus on how you overcame challenges.
It’s much better to describe specific, accountable accomplishments of your own rather than copying boring and general statements that you see on other people’s resumes. And I suggest you start from scratch rather than trying to update your old resume. You’ll like the result much better.
Check out the Damn Good Resume website where you’ll get some great hot tips that really work. And you’ll get more excellent advice.
Good luck! I’m excited for you!
Friday, March 16, 2007
Resume for Jack of All Trades
Question
I'm kind of a jack of all trades and have had jobs in different industries. I started out in Nursing 4 yrs (BA), then went to financial sales for about 16 yrs (Series 7,6,63 and Insurance licenses), had 1 yr Computer Software Sales, worked concurrently with the financial sales as a General Contractor, building spec homes, and now am running my own business (Curves Women’s Fitness Club) which is up for sale.
You see my problem: I've had many different experiences which could be interpreted as not being focused. Continue reading...
I'm kind of a jack of all trades and have had jobs in different industries. I started out in Nursing 4 yrs (BA), then went to financial sales for about 16 yrs (Series 7,6,63 and Insurance licenses), had 1 yr Computer Software Sales, worked concurrently with the financial sales as a General Contractor, building spec homes, and now am running my own business (Curves Women’s Fitness Club) which is up for sale.
You see my problem: I've had many different experiences which could be interpreted as not being focused. Continue reading...
Monday, March 12, 2007
New Horizons for an MBA
Question
I have been self employed for 20 years, I have an MBA in finance and management experience. I am looking for a change, but am having a difficult time finding anything that fits. Any suggestions?
Answer
by Townsend Belisle, former Professional Headhunter
First off, I’m envious of your experience. I believe that self-employment is one of the only ways to truly find that holy grail of work-life balance… though I know it takes enormous discipline.
I believe that the best way to find “something else that fits” is to “try on” as many things as possible. I would suggest you spend as much time as possible reading, traveling, and talking to people you respect or admire.
Read, read, read (yeah, I should practice what I preach). Here in New York, one steadfast way to find inspiration is to read The New York Times regularly. There are a number of times I’ve found a compelling article, an influential profile, or an engaging company or product in the “pages that fit.” Every week I hear the line, “did you see that article in the Times?”
I’ve also read two books that have helped many re-think their careers. The first is one by Richard Bolles called What Color Is Your Parachute? The premise is that you match your skills and passions to targeted industries and companies. I know nearly a dozen people who have found work this way.
Another popular book out there is Po Bronson’s What Should I Do With My Life? Many Gen Xers found it helpful post-internet bubble. This is a great read that gives permission to a generation to accept more meaning in their work, while giving them direction on how to find that meaning.
Travel can also inspire ideas on a career change. Go spend some time with those long-lost friends on the opposite coast, neighboring city or foreign country. A brief exposure to a different culture can give you ideas about what you like and don’t like – and can further drive decisions about those things you admire in a job.
Then go talk to people. One of the most marvelous things about people is that, when you openly and honestly ask for help, many willingly jump in to assist. Call those mavens and influencers in your life and ask them, “Can you help me? I’m trying to understand how my work experience and skills could apply to other industries and I believe you are someone who could offer sound advice. May we schedule time for coffee?”
Whether you find another means to be self-employed or you’re looking for the safe haven of “working for the man,” know that finding the new career is about knowing (and believing in) your expertise - and when considering something so new, you might try to focus on your skill-sets, and not your experience.
As an example, I’ve spent my career holding titles such as agent, producer, headhunter, recruiter, and business developer. But my expertise has remained the same – I am an expert at mediating between creative people and business people. In those roles, I’ve landed big contracts, built top-brand websites, targeted key executives, sourced for specific talent, and sold turnkey solutions… but my skill sets can be pared down to just a few.
Don’t be weighed down by how your “professional experience” limits your options. Instead of thinking of your career by the numerous titles you’ve maintained, think of it simply as the use of your skills over time and in many situations. And it is those skills that you take from job to job (and improve upon job to job), that become so valuable as an expertise, which can then be applied to many companies and careers. So think about what your actual skills are – and determine how you can apply those skills in other positions or within other industries.
"I honestly think it is better to be a failure at something you love than to be a success at something you hate.” ~ George Burns
Townsend Belisle gained listening and anthropology skills from his family, learned how to multi-task while waiting tables, and discovered the art of cold calling while championing friends into creative careers.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
I have been self employed for 20 years, I have an MBA in finance and management experience. I am looking for a change, but am having a difficult time finding anything that fits. Any suggestions?
Answer
by Townsend Belisle, former Professional Headhunter
First off, I’m envious of your experience. I believe that self-employment is one of the only ways to truly find that holy grail of work-life balance… though I know it takes enormous discipline.
I believe that the best way to find “something else that fits” is to “try on” as many things as possible. I would suggest you spend as much time as possible reading, traveling, and talking to people you respect or admire.
Read, read, read (yeah, I should practice what I preach). Here in New York, one steadfast way to find inspiration is to read The New York Times regularly. There are a number of times I’ve found a compelling article, an influential profile, or an engaging company or product in the “pages that fit.” Every week I hear the line, “did you see that article in the Times?”
I’ve also read two books that have helped many re-think their careers. The first is one by Richard Bolles called What Color Is Your Parachute? The premise is that you match your skills and passions to targeted industries and companies. I know nearly a dozen people who have found work this way.
Another popular book out there is Po Bronson’s What Should I Do With My Life? Many Gen Xers found it helpful post-internet bubble. This is a great read that gives permission to a generation to accept more meaning in their work, while giving them direction on how to find that meaning.
Travel can also inspire ideas on a career change. Go spend some time with those long-lost friends on the opposite coast, neighboring city or foreign country. A brief exposure to a different culture can give you ideas about what you like and don’t like – and can further drive decisions about those things you admire in a job.
Then go talk to people. One of the most marvelous things about people is that, when you openly and honestly ask for help, many willingly jump in to assist. Call those mavens and influencers in your life and ask them, “Can you help me? I’m trying to understand how my work experience and skills could apply to other industries and I believe you are someone who could offer sound advice. May we schedule time for coffee?”
Whether you find another means to be self-employed or you’re looking for the safe haven of “working for the man,” know that finding the new career is about knowing (and believing in) your expertise - and when considering something so new, you might try to focus on your skill-sets, and not your experience.
As an example, I’ve spent my career holding titles such as agent, producer, headhunter, recruiter, and business developer. But my expertise has remained the same – I am an expert at mediating between creative people and business people. In those roles, I’ve landed big contracts, built top-brand websites, targeted key executives, sourced for specific talent, and sold turnkey solutions… but my skill sets can be pared down to just a few.
Don’t be weighed down by how your “professional experience” limits your options. Instead of thinking of your career by the numerous titles you’ve maintained, think of it simply as the use of your skills over time and in many situations. And it is those skills that you take from job to job (and improve upon job to job), that become so valuable as an expertise, which can then be applied to many companies and careers. So think about what your actual skills are – and determine how you can apply those skills in other positions or within other industries.
"I honestly think it is better to be a failure at something you love than to be a success at something you hate.” ~ George Burns
Townsend Belisle gained listening and anthropology skills from his family, learned how to multi-task while waiting tables, and discovered the art of cold calling while championing friends into creative careers.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
Friday, March 09, 2007
Over 50 and Changing Careers in High-Tech
Question
I’m 52 and have been self-employed for over 20 years. During that time I have owned and managed two different boutique marketing services companies that specialize in creating, developing, and managing 3-D marketing environments and face-to-face marketing events. My client base has always been hi-tech/ telcom. My work has been project based, mostly large integrated B-to-B initiatives. My client contact level has always been VP or C level.
Within the next 5 – 7 years I would like to relocate to a new market, one where I currently have no presence, nor can gain it because of the geographic distance.
The market I’d like to move into is smaller and has a growing community of small/medium sized internet based advertising/marketing firms, primarily B-to-C. While I have the management and client interface skills that might be attractive to firms like these, I have no practical experience with web-based advertising/marketing.
My thoughts are this –
• In my current market, I could get a job working for a company similar to ones in my future market in account service/management, even if it’s an entry- or mid-level job.
• Due to my lack of specific experience I don’t think I’m hirable in any other area within my target companies, nor do I have the luxury of time to learn.
• Also dealing with clients, interpreting their needs, and communicating those needs to a creative/technical production team is one of my strong skill sets, though I would require additional OJT for the internet-based technical production.
• This would give me 3 – 5 years of specific practical experience before I make my move.
After this diatribe, here are my questions –
• Will anyone hire me in an entry level/mid-level position at age 52, specifically considering that the firms I would look to are populated with 25-35 year olds (though I do have the ability to engage and work well with that group)?
• How would I structure a resume to get considered? Moving into a new and smaller market, will I be employable with this addition to my resume at age 57-58?
Any other thoughts? Thanks for your time.
-- David
Answer
by Bridget Oakes, Senior Search Consultant
Monster has an interesting article, Career Change and the Seasoned Worker by Susan Bryant. While the advice in this article applies to your situation in a general sense, I’m sure it’s not the whole answer.
Let’s take your questions one by one:
Will anyone hire me into an entry level/mid-level position at age 52, specifically considering that the firms I would look to are populated with 25-35 year olds (though I do have the ability to engage and work well with that group)?
I want to be clear: Age discrimination is a very real problem, but I don’t think that’s the challenge you’ll be facing in your situation. Yes, many of these internet marketing firms are populated by the “wired” generation, but that doesn’t mean that relevant experience isn’t of value in these companies. However, you do have two huge disadvantages here:
How would I structure a resume to get considered?
In a situation like this, a resume is not your friend. This is not a situation where you can apply for positions in the local newspaper or online and expect to see results. Get off the internet and get on the phone. Talk to these people and give them your sales pitch. I’m sure you’ve made cold calls before, and that’s exactly what it’s going to take now.
Moving into a new and smaller market, will I be employable with this addition to my resume at age 57-58?
That will depend on your quality of experience, quality of results, and ability to apply that experience to the new market, all of which will be more relevant than your date of birth.
However you approach the situation, this is going to be a challenge and I make no guarantees it will work.
Some General Thoughts:
David, I wish you the best of luck with this challenging transition.
Bridget Oakes is a Senior Search Consultant with Partners in Technology. With nearly 10 years experience in executive search and recruiting, she is well equipped to provide advice and guidance to candidates searching for new careers, and welcomes the opportunity to do so through The Job Lounge.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
I’m 52 and have been self-employed for over 20 years. During that time I have owned and managed two different boutique marketing services companies that specialize in creating, developing, and managing 3-D marketing environments and face-to-face marketing events. My client base has always been hi-tech/ telcom. My work has been project based, mostly large integrated B-to-B initiatives. My client contact level has always been VP or C level.
Within the next 5 – 7 years I would like to relocate to a new market, one where I currently have no presence, nor can gain it because of the geographic distance.
The market I’d like to move into is smaller and has a growing community of small/medium sized internet based advertising/marketing firms, primarily B-to-C. While I have the management and client interface skills that might be attractive to firms like these, I have no practical experience with web-based advertising/marketing.
My thoughts are this –
• In my current market, I could get a job working for a company similar to ones in my future market in account service/management, even if it’s an entry- or mid-level job.
• Due to my lack of specific experience I don’t think I’m hirable in any other area within my target companies, nor do I have the luxury of time to learn.
• Also dealing with clients, interpreting their needs, and communicating those needs to a creative/technical production team is one of my strong skill sets, though I would require additional OJT for the internet-based technical production.
• This would give me 3 – 5 years of specific practical experience before I make my move.
After this diatribe, here are my questions –
• Will anyone hire me in an entry level/mid-level position at age 52, specifically considering that the firms I would look to are populated with 25-35 year olds (though I do have the ability to engage and work well with that group)?
• How would I structure a resume to get considered? Moving into a new and smaller market, will I be employable with this addition to my resume at age 57-58?
Any other thoughts? Thanks for your time.
-- David
Answer
by Bridget Oakes, Senior Search Consultant
Monster has an interesting article, Career Change and the Seasoned Worker by Susan Bryant. While the advice in this article applies to your situation in a general sense, I’m sure it’s not the whole answer.
Let’s take your questions one by one:
Will anyone hire me into an entry level/mid-level position at age 52, specifically considering that the firms I would look to are populated with 25-35 year olds (though I do have the ability to engage and work well with that group)?
I want to be clear: Age discrimination is a very real problem, but I don’t think that’s the challenge you’ll be facing in your situation. Yes, many of these internet marketing firms are populated by the “wired” generation, but that doesn’t mean that relevant experience isn’t of value in these companies. However, you do have two huge disadvantages here:
#1 – You are competing for jobs for which there are many qualified candidates.
If I was reviewing resumes for entry- to mid-level positions, and I came across someone with your level of experience, I would think, “Not the right experience and way too expensive” and promptly move on to the next resume. Many employers have also had bad experiences with the recently “self-employed”, as they can be unwilling to take direction from others. I’m not saying this is the case with you, I’m saying it’s another hurdle you’ll have to face in the process.
To overcome this, you are going to have to aggressively market yourself to companies in this field, and address these concerns directly. Sell your skills that directly apply to the position (like client interface and management) and your willingness to consider lower level positions to learn this new business. You must be absolutely clear that salary, benefits, management status, title, etc., are your secondary considerations. You are in this to gain experience on the cutting edge of this technology.
#2 – Your motives may not appeal to employers. You are looking to gain experience in your current region with the long-term goal of relocating to a new area in the next couple of years. Many companies will see your attempt to use them as “stepping stones”, which might raise some big red flags.
This is going to be more difficult to overcome, and with the exception of not mentioning your long-term goals, I can’t think of a way around the issue. However, your long-term goals will likely be discussed in any interview, so it’s best to face it head on and honestly, and let the potential employer decide if this is a relationship they are willing to pursue.
How would I structure a resume to get considered?
In a situation like this, a resume is not your friend. This is not a situation where you can apply for positions in the local newspaper or online and expect to see results. Get off the internet and get on the phone. Talk to these people and give them your sales pitch. I’m sure you’ve made cold calls before, and that’s exactly what it’s going to take now.
Moving into a new and smaller market, will I be employable with this addition to my resume at age 57-58?
That will depend on your quality of experience, quality of results, and ability to apply that experience to the new market, all of which will be more relevant than your date of birth.
However you approach the situation, this is going to be a challenge and I make no guarantees it will work.
Some General Thoughts:
Evaluate your plan.
What specifically is holding you back from making forays into your target market now? Geography has never been less of an issue! Along the same lines, what is prohibiting you from maintaining your current client base and business model from a new location?
Get serious about the change.
Make the time to learn these new skills; taking the time to do this is critical to any business let alone a job search. You need to make a commitment to learn about these new technical skills. You cannot expect that someone will be willing to take the time to teach and train you. Making an honest effort to learn these things on your own will be a giant leap in the right direction and will serve you well when you discuss potential employment.
Enlist help.
You may want to try to locate a search firm that specializes in your targeted field, and talk to them about how to approach this career change. You will face challenges here as well because the search firm will have to face these same issues when marketing you to companies.
Examine other possibilities.
Do you have existing clients that could benefit from working with an internet-based advertising/marketing firm? Is this a way to build a relationship with a firm in your desired geographic area and partner with them to expand the services you currently offer?
David, I wish you the best of luck with this challenging transition.
Bridget Oakes is a Senior Search Consultant with Partners in Technology. With nearly 10 years experience in executive search and recruiting, she is well equipped to provide advice and guidance to candidates searching for new careers, and welcomes the opportunity to do so through The Job Lounge.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
Friday, February 23, 2007
From Self-Employment to Employment
Question
I have had a sporadic and unproductive work life. At 43 I have no children or a marriage as an excuse.
I have worked independently as a massage therapist and yoga instructor for the past seven years. Now, I want very much to do something else.
I am working on a resume to submit to Stony Brook University to do something managerial. Considering I had my own business [massage/yoga] what would I head that work experience as?
-- Valerie
Answer
by Richard Yadon, Health Career Professionals, President/CEO
Your question is as much about resume writing as it is managing your career. Let’s tackle the resume question for now.
Keep in mind that your resume is really nothing more than your marketing brochure. You are the product and the salesperson. Your resume has to quickly, very quickly, grab the attention of the hiring manager or human resources representative. If they can’t readily find a connection between what they need and what you offer they will move on to the next resume in their stack. How you head and describe your past business experience is dependent upon what the University is looking for.
For instance:
If they are looking for someone to manage clerical people you might want to list the heading like this:
Manager/Owner, Massage & Yoga Business
If they want someone to manage a specific program, you might list the heading like this:
Program Manager/Owner, Yoga Therapy Programs
I recommend you take the following steps:
1) Try to find out to whom the position reports.
2) Call this person, tell them you are interested in the position, but you’d like to know more about the duties and responsibilities. Listen carefully because you will learn the needs of this hiring manager. If you can’t talk with the hiring manager, see if Human Resources can give you this information.
3) Make a list of your business ownership responsibilities and compare it to the duties of the job to which you are applying.
4) Find the correlations between the two lists and construct a heading that will grab the attention of the hiring manager or HR representative. Your heading must demonstrate experience with the kind of management they need.
Richard Yardon's firm, Health Career Professionals, is an executive search and employee development company focused in the healthcare industry. If you'd like Richard to help with your job search, email him.
Susan Ireland's Two Cents
Valerie, I searched online to find some good posts/articles about entrepreneurs switching to employment. They were hard to find! There were a gazillion articles about transitioning from employment to self-employment but very few on the reverse. Yet, I know you are not alone. Many consultants and other self-employed folks are moving back into employment because self-employment simply isn’t the right thing for them.
Here’s a comment by Repique to a post on Ask the Readers: Find the Right Career?, which I think says it well.
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
I have had a sporadic and unproductive work life. At 43 I have no children or a marriage as an excuse.
I have worked independently as a massage therapist and yoga instructor for the past seven years. Now, I want very much to do something else.
I am working on a resume to submit to Stony Brook University to do something managerial. Considering I had my own business [massage/yoga] what would I head that work experience as?
-- Valerie
Answer
by Richard Yadon, Health Career Professionals, President/CEO
Your question is as much about resume writing as it is managing your career. Let’s tackle the resume question for now.
Keep in mind that your resume is really nothing more than your marketing brochure. You are the product and the salesperson. Your resume has to quickly, very quickly, grab the attention of the hiring manager or human resources representative. If they can’t readily find a connection between what they need and what you offer they will move on to the next resume in their stack. How you head and describe your past business experience is dependent upon what the University is looking for.
For instance:
If they are looking for someone to manage clerical people you might want to list the heading like this:
Manager/Owner, Massage & Yoga Business
If they want someone to manage a specific program, you might list the heading like this:
Program Manager/Owner, Yoga Therapy Programs
I recommend you take the following steps:
1) Try to find out to whom the position reports.
2) Call this person, tell them you are interested in the position, but you’d like to know more about the duties and responsibilities. Listen carefully because you will learn the needs of this hiring manager. If you can’t talk with the hiring manager, see if Human Resources can give you this information.
3) Make a list of your business ownership responsibilities and compare it to the duties of the job to which you are applying.
4) Find the correlations between the two lists and construct a heading that will grab the attention of the hiring manager or HR representative. Your heading must demonstrate experience with the kind of management they need.
Richard Yardon's firm, Health Career Professionals, is an executive search and employee development company focused in the healthcare industry. If you'd like Richard to help with your job search, email him.
Susan Ireland's Two Cents
Valerie, I searched online to find some good posts/articles about entrepreneurs switching to employment. They were hard to find! There were a gazillion articles about transitioning from employment to self-employment but very few on the reverse. Yet, I know you are not alone. Many consultants and other self-employed folks are moving back into employment because self-employment simply isn’t the right thing for them.
Here’s a comment by Repique to a post on Ask the Readers: Find the Right Career?, which I think says it well.
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
