On March 1st, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) sequestered $85 billion in Fiscal Year (FY) 2013 spending as mandated by the Budget Control Act. This across - the - board cut will slow job creation within the federal government.
If you still want to apply for government jobs, you need to be prepared now more than ever. We are happy that applying for federal jobs has gotten easier, you just need to know that there are just going to be less jobs to apply for.
FAA jobs - In March 1st, the Federal Aviation Administration ("FAA") instituted a complete hiring freeze which means that FAA will not be able to feed the pipeline of departing controllers, inspectors and technicians.
State Department and USAID jobs - USAID’s operating budget has been reduced by nearly $71.4 million. It is likely that USAID will implement a hiring freeze for both Civil and Foreign Service Officers.
Department of Defense jobs - The Army is the process of releasing about 1,300 temporary and term employees and implement an Army - wide hiring freeze. The Army is also planning for the furlough of up to 251,000 civilian employees.
The Navy will furlough most civilians for 22 work days. The Navy will cancel 23 ship maintenance actions affecting shipyards around the count ry. The Navy will also cancel emergency repairs to the USS MIAMI, the USS PORTER, and the USS MONTPELIER.
The Energy Department - Out of 4,500 employees at the Y-12 site, between 700 and 1,000 will be furlough for a period of up to 6 months. The Pantex Plant in Amarillo, Texas will furlough up to 2,500 employees for 3 weeks. Los Alamos National Lab in New Mexico will furlough over 500 for about 2 weeks. And Sandia National Labs will lay off up to 100 positions and forgo hiring staff to support the B61 bomb life extension program.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Continuing education can give employees an edge in the workplace
A volatile economy and tough job market have revived American workers' interest in continuing education. Now more than ever, adults are returning to educational environments to advance their skills, training and knowledge.
"Continuing education generally refers to any type of post-secondary education for the purpose of keeping current with changes in a particular field of study or for preparation to obtain a certification," says Dr. Marianne Greenfield, a program chair at Argosy University, Atlanta. "Some professions require that you earn continuing education credits in order to maintain a license. The goal of continuing education is to offer adults who already possess a college or university degree further opportunity for learning without having to enroll in a degree program."
"Now more than ever, it's important for employees and professionals to keep up with all the latest skills and relevant knowledge necessary to compete in today's workforce," says Dr. George Spagnola, chair of the College of Education at Argosy University, Sarasota. "While a traditional education is necessary in today's workforce, it is also a cornerstone upon which one can build a better future through continuing education."
Greenfield agrees. "As more and more people are obtaining academic degrees, the advantage lies with the candidate whose skills and knowledge are current and relevant in the workplace," she says. "Continuing education is especially important in areas such as human resources, engineering, technology, finance and health care, where rapid advances occur, leading to constantly evolving practices." For many professions, certifications and licenses are requirements for employment opportunities, so continuing education is important for job seekers and professionals in those fields.
And obtaining continuing education is more convenient for learners. "Advances in technology have made continuing education more accessible," says Spagnola. "Options are available to pursue continuing education online, at a physical location or in a combination of both. These technology breakthroughs help so many to continue their education and advance their professional knowledge while working and raising a family."
Given the number of people raising families and working, that flexibility of education can be key to continuing education success. Look for an institution or provider that can meet your educational needs while still allowing you to meet your personal and professional obligations. "Seek out a student-centered institution that meets your needs both academically and non-academically," says Spagnola.
"Although there are many course providers who cater to those seeking continuing education, it is important to find an accredited institution to ensure your efforts yield results," says Greenfield. "Look for programs that offer you access to and learning from quality instructors with real-life experience in the specific field of study." Make sure that the program you are considering is compatible with any requirements you will face for licensure.
And while there are costs associated with continuing education, many people can find financial assistance in the form of tuition assistance programs offered through their employers. "Tuition assistance programs are of huge benefit to employees and the company," says Spagnola. "As an employee, you receive financial assistance for your education and your employer, in turn, gets an employee advancing their knowledge and skills and applying them to the organizations."
"The benefits far outweigh the expense and many private sector employers will pay for or reimburse the expense if a compelling case is made for the added competitive advantage for the organization," agrees Greenfield. "And if your employer isn't able to assist you with the costs, the Internal Revenue Service allows you to deduct a portion of qualifying continuing education expenses on your federal tax return. If you pay the expense on behalf of a spouse or a dependent child, you can also claim the deduction."
"Continuing education generally refers to any type of post-secondary education for the purpose of keeping current with changes in a particular field of study or for preparation to obtain a certification," says Dr. Marianne Greenfield, a program chair at Argosy University, Atlanta. "Some professions require that you earn continuing education credits in order to maintain a license. The goal of continuing education is to offer adults who already possess a college or university degree further opportunity for learning without having to enroll in a degree program."
"Now more than ever, it's important for employees and professionals to keep up with all the latest skills and relevant knowledge necessary to compete in today's workforce," says Dr. George Spagnola, chair of the College of Education at Argosy University, Sarasota. "While a traditional education is necessary in today's workforce, it is also a cornerstone upon which one can build a better future through continuing education."
Greenfield agrees. "As more and more people are obtaining academic degrees, the advantage lies with the candidate whose skills and knowledge are current and relevant in the workplace," she says. "Continuing education is especially important in areas such as human resources, engineering, technology, finance and health care, where rapid advances occur, leading to constantly evolving practices." For many professions, certifications and licenses are requirements for employment opportunities, so continuing education is important for job seekers and professionals in those fields.
And obtaining continuing education is more convenient for learners. "Advances in technology have made continuing education more accessible," says Spagnola. "Options are available to pursue continuing education online, at a physical location or in a combination of both. These technology breakthroughs help so many to continue their education and advance their professional knowledge while working and raising a family."
Given the number of people raising families and working, that flexibility of education can be key to continuing education success. Look for an institution or provider that can meet your educational needs while still allowing you to meet your personal and professional obligations. "Seek out a student-centered institution that meets your needs both academically and non-academically," says Spagnola.
"Although there are many course providers who cater to those seeking continuing education, it is important to find an accredited institution to ensure your efforts yield results," says Greenfield. "Look for programs that offer you access to and learning from quality instructors with real-life experience in the specific field of study." Make sure that the program you are considering is compatible with any requirements you will face for licensure.
And while there are costs associated with continuing education, many people can find financial assistance in the form of tuition assistance programs offered through their employers. "Tuition assistance programs are of huge benefit to employees and the company," says Spagnola. "As an employee, you receive financial assistance for your education and your employer, in turn, gets an employee advancing their knowledge and skills and applying them to the organizations."
"The benefits far outweigh the expense and many private sector employers will pay for or reimburse the expense if a compelling case is made for the added competitive advantage for the organization," agrees Greenfield. "And if your employer isn't able to assist you with the costs, the Internal Revenue Service allows you to deduct a portion of qualifying continuing education expenses on your federal tax return. If you pay the expense on behalf of a spouse or a dependent child, you can also claim the deduction."
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Tips for beating workplace stress by taking charge of your career
Whether it's low pay, a heavy workload, fear of being laid off or simply that annoying co-worker in the cube next to you, there's a variety of reasons why you might feel stressed at work. If you think of yourself as someone who's consistently stressed at work, it's important to know that you're not alone, and there are things you can do reduce the stress of your job.
Workplace stress is common in America, as a recent survey by Harris Interactive on behalf of Everest College found that 73 percent of Americans are stressed by at least one thing at work. Reasons for workplace stress varied, from lacking opportunities for advancement, working a job outside of your chosen career, long commutes and poor work-life balance.
While reasons for workplace stress vary, the most important thing you can do is take control of your career, says John Swartz, regional director of career services at Everest College. "It's easy to get stressed if you're working a job you weren't particularly excited about in the first place," says Swartz.
Swartz offers the following tips for taking control of your career, which in turn should help reduce the amount of stress you face at work:
* Stay on top of current trends in your field. One of the best ways to improve your situation at work is to give yourself room to grow by becoming an expert in your field. Employees who demonstrate the ability to adapt and learn are a valuable commodity, which will help ensure your advancement at your current place of employment or elsewhere.
* Learn practical skills. Don't wait to be asked by your boss to learn something now. Seek out ways you can increase your value within your company. While it may seem like a lot of work at the time, acquiring more skills will open more doors for you in the long run.
* If necessary, increase your level of education. If you're having trouble getting the job you want because you don't have the required amount of education, it's time to think about going back to school. If you're not happy at your job, it will be worth the sacrifice to get a degree that puts you in a better position to succeed.
* Choose a career in a field where growth is projected, if possible. If you are exploring going back to school, it makes sense to first take a look at the job prospects in the fields you are considering. Recent projections by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics note that health care, personal care and social assistance, and construction are projected to have the fastest job growth between 2010 and 2020.
Finding a college that's focused on providing the necessary practical skills specific to your career is also important, especially if you've already been to school and received a broader education in the liberal arts. Your college of choice should also help you tailor your training to areas within your chosen field that are expected to see growth.
"All government labor projections continue to show that health care is and will continue to be one of the fastest-growing industries in the U.S.," says Swartz. "The overwhelming majority of Everest's programs are in this sector and we have worked very hard to make sure our curriculum is relevant to the industries our students are interested in."
The best way to avoid workplace stress is to put yourself in a position to get the types of job that you know you'll enjoy. For more information on career-specific degree programs, visit www.everest.edu.
Workplace stress is common in America, as a recent survey by Harris Interactive on behalf of Everest College found that 73 percent of Americans are stressed by at least one thing at work. Reasons for workplace stress varied, from lacking opportunities for advancement, working a job outside of your chosen career, long commutes and poor work-life balance.
While reasons for workplace stress vary, the most important thing you can do is take control of your career, says John Swartz, regional director of career services at Everest College. "It's easy to get stressed if you're working a job you weren't particularly excited about in the first place," says Swartz.
Swartz offers the following tips for taking control of your career, which in turn should help reduce the amount of stress you face at work:
* Stay on top of current trends in your field. One of the best ways to improve your situation at work is to give yourself room to grow by becoming an expert in your field. Employees who demonstrate the ability to adapt and learn are a valuable commodity, which will help ensure your advancement at your current place of employment or elsewhere.
* Learn practical skills. Don't wait to be asked by your boss to learn something now. Seek out ways you can increase your value within your company. While it may seem like a lot of work at the time, acquiring more skills will open more doors for you in the long run.
* If necessary, increase your level of education. If you're having trouble getting the job you want because you don't have the required amount of education, it's time to think about going back to school. If you're not happy at your job, it will be worth the sacrifice to get a degree that puts you in a better position to succeed.
* Choose a career in a field where growth is projected, if possible. If you are exploring going back to school, it makes sense to first take a look at the job prospects in the fields you are considering. Recent projections by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics note that health care, personal care and social assistance, and construction are projected to have the fastest job growth between 2010 and 2020.
Finding a college that's focused on providing the necessary practical skills specific to your career is also important, especially if you've already been to school and received a broader education in the liberal arts. Your college of choice should also help you tailor your training to areas within your chosen field that are expected to see growth.
"All government labor projections continue to show that health care is and will continue to be one of the fastest-growing industries in the U.S.," says Swartz. "The overwhelming majority of Everest's programs are in this sector and we have worked very hard to make sure our curriculum is relevant to the industries our students are interested in."
The best way to avoid workplace stress is to put yourself in a position to get the types of job that you know you'll enjoy. For more information on career-specific degree programs, visit www.everest.edu.
Friday, February 15, 2013
Are You a Team Oriented Employee?
Dreamfedjob.com
by Amin Huffington
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| Download Now! |
Dreamfedjob - Turning unemployed into employed.
Found yourself suddenly assigned to a team? Wondering what that might mean with regard to your role, performance expectations or how your work gets evaluated? All good questions! The definition of a "team" can vary greatly, as does how teams operate, their purpose, even how long they stay together. Provided here is basic information on what teams are and the qualities of effective teams, as well as guidance on how to thrive as a new member of a team.
While there is a great deal you can intuit or "pick up" about how you're supposed to behave as a member of a team, just by close observation, it is often best to check out your assumptions with open, direct discussion. If you're uncertain about performance expectations, ask. Inquire as to whether a "team charter" has been created (as well as whether or not it is followed, and why). Ask your supervisor or team leader how individual performance as well as team success is evaluated.
Remember too, for many people, being part of a team can at first feel uncomfortable. Americans value rugged individualism and personal success. Tying one's professional future to the performance of a team; having one's value assessed according to how one functions as a team member as opposed to an independent employee, can seem like a risky proposition. Some would argue that only with great risk comes the opportunity for great success, and great rewards. There's no denying very successful teams work hard at working well together. If you're not interested in that kind of labor, working in a team environment may not be a good fit for you. However, if you thrive on the support of others, if you problem-solve best by bouncing ideas off someone else, if your creativity is fueled by open debate and dialogue, a team environment might suit you well.
Professionally written resumes now available through dreamfedjob.com. For inquiries email us at resumes@dreamfedjob.com
People don't become a team because someone tells them they are. They must be striving together to attain something. Here's one definition of a team-a small group of people committed to accomplishing a common goal. Teams often operate best if they have a shared set of values. The following list are some attributes of highly successful teams:
- We are customer focused. Meaning, we are driven to do things that make our service more valuable to the customer, whether internal or external.
- We trust each other's intentions. Meaning we believe that everyone else on the team is working together to find the best possible solution to each problem or conflict encountered.
- We are truthful in our communications. Meaning we are open and honest with one another.
- We are interdependent. Meaning we rely on one another to get the whole job done.
- We are all accountable. Meaning we each take responsibility for the results of what we do and what the department does.
- We support one another. Meaning we are committed to helping and encouraging one another to grow professionally.
- We respect our diversity. Meaning we respect other's on the team who have values and points of view that are different from our own.
- We have a common purpose. Meaning we are all working towards attaining similar outcomes.
- We have a shared vision. Meaning we all have a common understanding of what we are trying to accomplish as we move into the future.
- We are always playing to win. Meaning we are trying to get as far as we can get each day by putting everything we can into our work.
While there is a great deal you can intuit or "pick up" about how you're supposed to behave as a member of a team, just by close observation, it is often best to check out your assumptions with open, direct discussion. If you're uncertain about performance expectations, ask. Inquire as to whether a "team charter" has been created (as well as whether or not it is followed, and why). Ask your supervisor or team leader how individual performance as well as team success is evaluated.
Remember too, for many people, being part of a team can at first feel uncomfortable. Americans value rugged individualism and personal success. Tying one's professional future to the performance of a team; having one's value assessed according to how one functions as a team member as opposed to an independent employee, can seem like a risky proposition. Some would argue that only with great risk comes the opportunity for great success, and great rewards. There's no denying very successful teams work hard at working well together. If you're not interested in that kind of labor, working in a team environment may not be a good fit for you. However, if you thrive on the support of others, if you problem-solve best by bouncing ideas off someone else, if your creativity is fueled by open debate and dialogue, a team environment might suit you well.
Professionally written resumes now available through dreamfedjob.com. For inquiries email us at resumes@dreamfedjob.com
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Seven things employers must provide reservists returning from military service
Since Sept. 11, 2001, more than 800,000 reservists and national guardsmen have been called to leave their civilian life to serve the military full-time, with more than 250,000 pressed into active duty more than once.
A federal law, The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), is intended to give reservists and others in the U.S. Armed Forces employment protections when they return to their civilian jobs.
But confusion about the federal law runs rampant. Without the proper knowledge, reservists are denied their rights to re-employment. Those adversely impacted include reservists in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard, as well as the National Guard.
To bring clarity, the Washington-based Reserve Officers Association (ROA) is offering a free report titled "Seven Things Your Civilian Employer Must Provide When You Return From Military Service." Reservists who are not a current member of ROA will also receive a free six-month trial ROA membership, with their free report.
To get the report, visit www.discoverroa.org/roasevenwpconplac.
The report outlines how employers are required to provide reservists with the following:
1. Prompt re-employment
2. A job of similar status
3. Rate of pay as if continuously employed
4. Reinstatement of civilian health insurance and vacation
5. Pension as if continuously employed
6. Accommodations for disability
7. One-year protection from discharge
"Reservists know that duty never takes a day off and sacrifice is part of the job description," says Captain Samuel F. Wright, director of the Reserve Officers Association's Service Members Law Center and a former U.S. Department of Labor attorney who helped draft the legislation that became federal law.- "In exchange for that sacrifice, USERRA gives certain employment rights when they return to their civilian jobs."
"Unfortunately, too many employers don't understand what they legally must provide to returning reservists. Our association is fighting to make sure those who serve their country get everything they are entitled to."
Ironically, the federal government was the employer with the most USERRA complaints in 2011, according to U.S. Labor Department statistics. The director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management was so concerned he issued a statement to federal agencies reminding them that there is "zero tolerance" for USERRA violations.
When a 42-year-old Army reservist recently found herself in a job dispute with the federal agency that employed her, she turned to the Reserve Officers Association and its Service Members Law Center.-
"Without ROA I would have been lost," says the reservist, who asked not to be identified. "I would have been fired. I wouldn't have had any hope."
When the reservist left the federal agency for active duty, her supervisor told her there would be "no problem" getting her job back when she returned. But that supervisor was replaced by someone who sent her a terse letter saying she might be fired.
"I was worried sick," says the reservist.
She sent an email to ROA and received a reply within minutes from Wright. While ROA does not retain clients in formal legal counsel, its Service Members Law Center is the nation's only entity exclusively dedicated to the support of reserve service members facing legal difficulties. ROA helped this reservist find the information that she needed and guided her toward resolving her issue in a friendly manner.
"I couldn't believe it," says the reservist. "Now I want everybody out there to know about USERRA and the resources provided by ROA."
A federal law, The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), is intended to give reservists and others in the U.S. Armed Forces employment protections when they return to their civilian jobs.
But confusion about the federal law runs rampant. Without the proper knowledge, reservists are denied their rights to re-employment. Those adversely impacted include reservists in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard, as well as the National Guard.
To bring clarity, the Washington-based Reserve Officers Association (ROA) is offering a free report titled "Seven Things Your Civilian Employer Must Provide When You Return From Military Service." Reservists who are not a current member of ROA will also receive a free six-month trial ROA membership, with their free report.
To get the report, visit www.discoverroa.org/roasevenwpconplac.
The report outlines how employers are required to provide reservists with the following:
1. Prompt re-employment
2. A job of similar status
3. Rate of pay as if continuously employed
4. Reinstatement of civilian health insurance and vacation
5. Pension as if continuously employed
6. Accommodations for disability
7. One-year protection from discharge
"Reservists know that duty never takes a day off and sacrifice is part of the job description," says Captain Samuel F. Wright, director of the Reserve Officers Association's Service Members Law Center and a former U.S. Department of Labor attorney who helped draft the legislation that became federal law.- "In exchange for that sacrifice, USERRA gives certain employment rights when they return to their civilian jobs."
"Unfortunately, too many employers don't understand what they legally must provide to returning reservists. Our association is fighting to make sure those who serve their country get everything they are entitled to."
Ironically, the federal government was the employer with the most USERRA complaints in 2011, according to U.S. Labor Department statistics. The director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management was so concerned he issued a statement to federal agencies reminding them that there is "zero tolerance" for USERRA violations.
When a 42-year-old Army reservist recently found herself in a job dispute with the federal agency that employed her, she turned to the Reserve Officers Association and its Service Members Law Center.-
"Without ROA I would have been lost," says the reservist, who asked not to be identified. "I would have been fired. I wouldn't have had any hope."
When the reservist left the federal agency for active duty, her supervisor told her there would be "no problem" getting her job back when she returned. But that supervisor was replaced by someone who sent her a terse letter saying she might be fired.
"I was worried sick," says the reservist.
She sent an email to ROA and received a reply within minutes from Wright. While ROA does not retain clients in formal legal counsel, its Service Members Law Center is the nation's only entity exclusively dedicated to the support of reserve service members facing legal difficulties. ROA helped this reservist find the information that she needed and guided her toward resolving her issue in a friendly manner.
"I couldn't believe it," says the reservist. "Now I want everybody out there to know about USERRA and the resources provided by ROA."
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Three tips for mastering new media and multimedia
New technology and digital media like Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest and Twitter are changing the way people communicate both at home and in the workplace. They're also contributing to a generation gap. For example, users under age 30 are significantly more likely to use social-networking sites when compared to other adult age groups, according to research from the Pew Internet Project.-
"For older adults, this means there's a great opportunity to learn more about using new digital technology and social media to advance their careers, change careers or simply stay connected with people and information that's important to them," says Don-French,-owner of graphic design firm French & Associates-and program director of graphic design-at-Brooks Institute, a leading provider of higher education for-film, graphic design, visual journalism and photography. "It's important to continue seeking knowledge about the latest trends, tools and technology, and there are easy ways to get started without feeling overwhelmed with all the changes."
To take advantage of career opportunities, for example, French notes that graphic design professionals must learn and stay ahead of trends in multimedia - which is the art of integrating multiple forms of communication, including images, text, audio, interactive content, animation and video.-
No matter your professional or personal goals, French offers three tips for better understanding and applying the latest digital media, multimedia and technology tools:
1. Experiment with multimedia. Many people feel that the best way to master a new skill is through experience. With cost-effective digital cameras and built-in cameras on smartphones, it's easier to start exploring the world of photography, including uploading, sharing and editing your images. Many of these same devices also have video capabilities, allowing you to give video shooting and editing a try. In doing so, you will not only develop new skills, but may also find a new hobby in photography or film. If you're looking for a place to share your new skills, consider starting a blog to showcase your work and act as an online portfolio. While no one can be an expert in every aspect of multimedia, you can discover areas you enjoy.
2. Embrace social media. Whether you're a digital native who was born with a cellphone in hand or a digital novice trying to figure out when Myspace stopped being cool, social media is revolutionizing how we communicate and get information. If you're just dipping your toes into the social media world, online resources like PCMag's Social Media 101 can teach you the basics of online interaction. You don't have to tweet hourly updates, but developing and maintaining a presence on the most popular social media sites will not only help you communicate on a personal level, but also give you an advantage in job hunting by making you more visible online.
3. Keep learning. It seems like we hear about a new technology or social media site every day. Since it's nearly impossible to stay abreast of every trend, identify a few ways to stay connected. For example, find several publications or blogs to follow that provide relevant information to help you learn about new tools for both personal and professional use. Don't forget the importance of face-to-face interaction as you're networking and learning online. You can seek a mentor or colleague who understands the ins and outs of multimedia and is willing to share advice, or even a friend or family member who is more comfortable with new digital trends. Many colleges, like Brooks Institute, have workshops and continuing education classes on relevant topics for those looking to further their skills.
"For older adults, this means there's a great opportunity to learn more about using new digital technology and social media to advance their careers, change careers or simply stay connected with people and information that's important to them," says Don-French,-owner of graphic design firm French & Associates-and program director of graphic design-at-Brooks Institute, a leading provider of higher education for-film, graphic design, visual journalism and photography. "It's important to continue seeking knowledge about the latest trends, tools and technology, and there are easy ways to get started without feeling overwhelmed with all the changes."
To take advantage of career opportunities, for example, French notes that graphic design professionals must learn and stay ahead of trends in multimedia - which is the art of integrating multiple forms of communication, including images, text, audio, interactive content, animation and video.-
No matter your professional or personal goals, French offers three tips for better understanding and applying the latest digital media, multimedia and technology tools:
1. Experiment with multimedia. Many people feel that the best way to master a new skill is through experience. With cost-effective digital cameras and built-in cameras on smartphones, it's easier to start exploring the world of photography, including uploading, sharing and editing your images. Many of these same devices also have video capabilities, allowing you to give video shooting and editing a try. In doing so, you will not only develop new skills, but may also find a new hobby in photography or film. If you're looking for a place to share your new skills, consider starting a blog to showcase your work and act as an online portfolio. While no one can be an expert in every aspect of multimedia, you can discover areas you enjoy.
2. Embrace social media. Whether you're a digital native who was born with a cellphone in hand or a digital novice trying to figure out when Myspace stopped being cool, social media is revolutionizing how we communicate and get information. If you're just dipping your toes into the social media world, online resources like PCMag's Social Media 101 can teach you the basics of online interaction. You don't have to tweet hourly updates, but developing and maintaining a presence on the most popular social media sites will not only help you communicate on a personal level, but also give you an advantage in job hunting by making you more visible online.
3. Keep learning. It seems like we hear about a new technology or social media site every day. Since it's nearly impossible to stay abreast of every trend, identify a few ways to stay connected. For example, find several publications or blogs to follow that provide relevant information to help you learn about new tools for both personal and professional use. Don't forget the importance of face-to-face interaction as you're networking and learning online. You can seek a mentor or colleague who understands the ins and outs of multimedia and is willing to share advice, or even a friend or family member who is more comfortable with new digital trends. Many colleges, like Brooks Institute, have workshops and continuing education classes on relevant topics for those looking to further their skills.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Things Happen for a Reason...
Have you ever heard advice like this?
- "Make a career decision and stick with it."
- "Finish your education."
- "Don’t let chance events disrupt your plan."
- "Take action only when you’re sure of the outcome."
Statements like this make things sound as though you should know the exact path you will take in your life and career. But what if you’re less than completely certain about what path you want to take? What if you are still wrestling with several competing interests? How can you move forward when you’re not sure of your direction?
Well, to start, don’t be too alarmed – you’re in the majority. There are very few people who know exactly what they want to do in their careers; much less how to achieve their goals. Instead, many of us are unsure. Luckily, there is a job searching approach that acknowledges this uncertainty and views it as an asset. It’s called Happenstance.
What is Happenstance?
The premise of this theory is that people can take unplanned events and transform them into career opportunities. Both planned and chance events are involved. Most people are taught that they should overcome indecision quickly and minimize any chance events that can interrupt their plans. Happenstance adopts a different view where people welcome indecision as a sensible approach to a complex and unpredictable future, and also actively look to capitalize on chance events.
The key to this approach is an attitude shift that embraces the fact that uncertainty is normal. Unplanned events are a normal and necessary component of every career. Similarly, anxiety about the future is normal but can be replaced with a sense of adventure.
We’ve all been through unexpected changes in life, some good and some bad. However, even some of our negative changes have resulted in new opportunities. Here are a few examples:
- You may have been laid off from a job, but this event was the spark you needed to focus on starting a home-based business;
- You weren’t selected for the job you wanted, but instead you decided to explore a new career area you previously knew nothing about; and/or
- You have to go to a party you’re dreading, and while there you end up meeting someone who becomes an important business contact.
In each of these examples, something positive takes places in what first appeared to be a negative and/or unplanned situation. Paraphrasing Louis Pasteur, “Chance favors the prepared mind.” It is not enough to wait for good things to happen to you. While you may not actively seek out new opportunities or situations, you must be prepared for the ones that you encounter. Remember that your career development is a life-long learning process that requires you to make decisions in response to unexpected events.
There are lots of things that you can do to prepare yourself for Happenstance. These include:
- Get more education – Enroll in workshops, seminars, online learning courses, as well as college classes
- Build and maintain a professional network of contacts
- Volunteer for different projects and assignments at work to increase your skills and knowledge as well as your visibility among coworkers and managers
- Join a professional association and become active on various committees
- Volunteer with community and civic groups to increase your network of social and professional contacts
- Work with a career coach to update your resume
In addition, here are some specific mindsets you can cultivate to make the most of unplanned events:
- Optimism – viewing new opportunities as possible and attainable
- Curiosity – exploring new learning and opportunities
- Risk Taking – taking action in the face of uncertain outcomes
- Persistence – trying to succee in spite of setbacks
- Flexibility – changing beliefs, ideas, attitudes and behaviors
And finally, remember that Happenstance helps broaden your horizons. You can move forward with an expansive spirit, taking actions to discover new outcomes and learning from your mistakes. Within this new way of thinking, you are not indecisive…you are open minded!
For more on Happenstance, see the book Luck is No Accident: Making the Most of Happenstance in Your Life and Career by John D. Krumboltz and Al S. Levin (2004).
Dreamfedjob - Turning unemployed into employed.
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