Wednesday, October 20, 2010

The Miners

I’ve been thinking off & on about the big story from last week. The Miners. I know I'm behind in posting, but life for me has happily been busy and even hectic- but time to catch up!
They can teach us SOOOOOOOO much. Not only the broad lesson about living life (family and such), but also about us as coworkers- crisis, -and leadership. While a full analysis and commentary would take chapter upon chapter; I want to touch upon just a few points rumbling through my head.
*As coworkers- there are reports there was some fighting at first. Then came, however, the realization –the acceptance that they all had the same goal. With a common purpose they focused on the goal (surviving until rescued) and by doing so they became a team. The pride and courage they showed as a result was AMAZING. When I first heard the group was arguing about the order they would leave this underground prison, I NEVER would have imagined the details. They argued who should have the HONOR of leaving last. The leader who kept them going was bestowed with that. Not a ‘me first’ by ANY means. WOW!

*Leadership: Now here’s a rich source for this heading (but I’ll keep it to a minimum); stories of the shift leader’s efforts will continue to emerge, I think. Turning arguments into resolve has to be credited to him. Not only did he manage to unify his team in this extraordinary crisis, he motivated them to rally together. This guy is my hero. He organized specified areas and schedules to keep all focused (and sane). Gathering resources like the lights on equipment to simulate day & night as much as possible; setting up exercise regimens (that helped the mind as much as the body), and other examples that DEFINE leadership as well as heroism. The examples these men set for us are nearly endless! Talk about handling a stressful situation and overcoming a crisis!!

*Even above the ground efforts of teamwork shone through. Finger pointing was almost no existent- instead, a focus on THE GOAL (getting them out alive). Various industries (including the likes of NASA) from countries around the world come together with the vision defined.

I can’t speak for others, but I can say I will remember these examples for quite some time, and try to emulate- to live up to this high bar these men set.

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Business lessons and the new TV season:

No- really, I think there are some basic lessons here.

The Event……Hawaii 5-0…..The Mentalist…….and Lonestar:

The Event: Create interest and curiosity for the client or prospects. Make them want to know more. And give it to them, BUT leave more to answer…more opportunity to ….do business and provide more.

Hawaii 5-0: You remember something that was popular, that filled a need. This is something that you don’t see anymore, but you feel is still ‘needed’ –still somewhat relevant, and that would be popular if made available again. However, to make it truly relevant (current, you need to give it an update (makeover?) that brings it into “today.”

The Mentalist: You have a current ‘product.’ It’s popular, well liked – ‘used’ and talked about. As the saying goes- if it’s not broke, don’t fix it. But you want to continue your success and not grow stagnant. What to do? You build on the core of what brought you success (here= believable characters & solid stories) and bring newer ‘products’ (episodes) based on that core.

Lonestar: Simple= If you have all (or even just too much) hype to live up to—you will fail. Setting expectations is critical. There’s a lot to be said for under-promising and over delivering.

In general-- be aware of your competition (what else is on), and stand out (why watch one over another).

BOTTOM LINE—Never stop paying attention, and never stop learning—no matter the potential source.

Monday, September 6, 2010

Labor? Day

The first Labor Day in the United States was observed in New York City, 1882, by the Central Labor Union. It became a federal holiday in 1894.
Since then, this "salute to the working folk" has had many meanings to many people, stirring visions of time in the hammock- a cook out - or maybe watching the Jerry Lewis telethon.
HOWEVER- if you are among the millions out of work it probably means something entirely different.
It can mark a milestone of how long you are on the out, or perhaps it is a bitter reminder that while others are looking at a 'long weekend' and/or a shortened week ahead- your own time off to be remains unknown (and UNwanted). Maybe you are part of the statistics that are not counted in the 'mainstream' #s: maybe you ran out of unemployment $ or have taken part-time job(s) while still wanting/seeking a FT one (see the U6 # for more on that! = http://portalseven.com/employment/unemployment_rate_u6.jsp )
I heard a commentator on one show the other day suggest the unemployed look at it as a type of "New Years Day." He suggested a REnewed effort to find that elusive job. Not bad.
But for some like myself, the effort continues regardless of a "holiday." My focus continues to be trying to show employers WHAT I HAVE DONE and CAN DO-- and how that WILL WORK in their industry, that transferable skills are more valuable than ever (http://www.linkedin.com/pub/thomas-drake/b/264/545).
ANYWAY- Happy Labor Day (or job seeker New Years Day)!!
I'll ponder it some more over the grill myself no doubt.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Real life versus…

Did you ever wonder if your job were only like sports? I mean you have a great year and your ‘agent’ gets to negotiate a bigger contract. Or maybe you’re average and you get traded for someone ‘better’ --plus an accountant to be named later? I mean- just look at Manny Ramirez.

-Or how about if life was like the movies. You could have a theme song to play when you enter the room- or maybe you walk in on coworkers talking about you, or a boss about to reprimand you and you’d hear that warning music--- and that perfect exit walk out of a room WOULD be perfect.
…I’m just saying.

Friday, August 13, 2010

CUSTOMER SERVICE: Internal And External

This week’s top story seems to center on a certain airline employee – It made me think of some past customers & clients I have dealt with in the past. I have used my best diplomacy and negotiating skills in more instances than I could count (and held my frustration in check many times).

The reasons are far too varied to list them all here, but the thing most had in common was something was out of my hands and in a lot of cases out of the hands of subordinates. Coming to mind: -Service from 2 layers downWrong SHADE of a color in an ad—an Unasked request not filled (“they SHOULD have know”)—and on. The two most extreme I think would be a request—um demand—that my boss NOT visit him anymore (AWKWARD!!) and the call accusing my company of FRAUD (that case resulted in A~ the firing of an employee and B~ UPselling of the customer by me).

But the other thing I thought of was INTERNAL customers. Interesting term. Sometimes it is very apt- $ traveled form one department to another, but most times it is different parts of a company that rely on each other to accomplish the end goal= producing a product, satisfying a customer, ETC. In this arena I only had one-for lack of another word- conflict. Another dept was crucial to ME providing the client’s needs, and the manager was – resistant- to taking responsibility for his team’s errors. Well, we had an internal survey, and I spoke my mind. He called my boss and complained- it hurt his bonus. The problems his dept caused cost me bonus money. My boss said that while true “we don’t put it in the survey."
Well- the result was the other manager and myself meeting and going over standards, memos and types of communication available. Longer story shorter (you’re welcome)- We got to the point where he still protected his people, but when it was on his end- he admitted it, fixed it and we moved on. I cemented this by spending an entire day with his team. Them seeing I cared and wanted to understand only added to the improvements seen. My Boss? He publicly gave me credit for building a level of communication between departments the company had not seen before.
Now while it may SEEM I got off track from my opening statement, let me tie it all together. In certain position you have to develop a thicker skin. How many of us have vented once we left the building or hung up the phone? How many have wanted to start singing Johnny Paycheck’s “take this job and shove it?” Now I’m not condemning this guy, Heck- its good escapism and venting by proxy. The thing is, it’s not me

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Unemployment: the sad truth

Anyone who recently has glanced at a newspaper, watched TV or listened to the news on the radio (I hope these #s of informed are LARGE) must know that unemployment is high and hiring is – to put it simply – S-L-O-W.
Now, while the causes for the lay-offs and shutdowns are many, and the arguments over continuing high numbers are a topic for debate, there are other aspects that should be well known, but sadly seem rare in the collective knowledge of people today.

“There are plenty of jobs out there” Well, there ARE jobs listed online and in the classified, sure. But not everyone has an engineering degree, has a history of selling pharmaceuticals to physicians, has 5+ years of multi unit retail management experience, is an RN, has a CDL, ETC -ETC. FURTHERMORE-There is the specter of competition to contend with. In today’s market, you need to match a job description 110% just to GET the interview. It is a buyer’s market without dispute. I just met a plumber who has been out of work for years- finally getting a job driving a truck.

“Some people want to just collect unemployment/aren’t willing to take ‘any’ job.” Oh boy- where to start on this one?! First it can be agreed that there are SOME who will just take what they can get from the system. I need to again refer to the above, however, in that there are so many unemployed that competition for EACH AND EVERY job CANNOT be ignored. There are hundreds of applicants for an average posting. In this, it is understandable for a hiring manager to whittle away at those without experience matching the company or perhaps even industry. In addition, there is SOME credibility to those turned away because they have far surpassed the level of the position advertised. I will debate some points of this however:

“Sorry- you’re overqualified.” As I have repeated- Competition is the chief villain for the unemployed today. Having said, I would argue there are various levels to debate. If say, you are looking to hire a sales re, and a former company Vice President applies, - you may move on to other resumes. But I would argue (as a former hiring manager) if the position previously held is, say, but one level above that advertised, an interview would tell you if a ‘bargain’ could be had. Sadly, I would have to state today’s recruiters & HR managers are short sighted, looking at the “He/she won’t stay” angle despite the harsh reality of the economy and job market we are in.

Furthermore are other disturbing trends (and frustrating ones if you are among the unemployed). Recent news stories not only reveal scams such as pay for job leads, but other work at home or ‘franchise’ type schemes. But even worse is the list of articles revealing that some hiring managers have a policy of “the unemployed need not apply.” The numerous reports of this not only cede credibility, but reinforce the older practice of ‘the longer you are out, the less we want to hire you.’

One other area of comment and facts about information I find not widely known: The numbers counted in the unemployment figures do not tell the whole story. Left out are people not collecting because their compensation has run out or because they (luckily?) have multiple part time jobs while seeking a FT one. Still others are left out because they have temporary (contracted) jobs despite the length or lack of benefits many offer. Sometimes reported as the “underemployed number,” it can be as much as double the unemployment rate.

Monday, July 12, 2010

You pick the best title: “Timing is everything" -OR-“The right tool for the right job”

There have been many notable (famous) people who have faltered in one industry or another, - maybe a start up business even- only to move on to a different area in order to find success.

For instance before entering politics, Harry Truman had opened a haberdashery but it went bankrupt during the recession of 1921. In addition, Truman didn’t even earn a college degree.

I think the best example in Ulysses S. Grant. Having been in the army, he left to support his family in civilian endeavors. He labored on a family farm near St. Louis, Missouri, but it did not prosper. He was a bill collector in St. Louis. In 1860, after many failed business pursuits, he was given a job as an assistant in his father's tannery in Illinois. Ultimately, He returned to the military, where his legacy of leadership is best known. Even more than his actions as president, Grant is recognized for being the right man to lead the Union Army in the Civil War.

Some I have talked to say there are conflicting lessons, but I disagree. While figures such as Edison and Disney kept battling in the same “industry” (for lack of another term), others may not be as lucky to hit the right target for them.

So, while the obvious lesson is perseverance, the second is the one debated. I say it is about judgment, discretion, and even self honesty. The examples I noted above certainly did NOT give up. They DID however realize what was NOT working from them, and looked to where they COULD succeed.

Edison said “I have not failed. I've just found 10000 ways that won't work.” The thing is, Edison was where he should be. He knew WHAT he was working toward was for him. Even Walt Disney knew HE was on the right path already when he said “All the adversity I've had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles have strengthened me... You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.”

Looking at people like Disney & Edison – When my employer closed, I looked at my lay-off as the chance to be my own boss. I took a semi-hobby and worked to create a business. I took talent and experience to put into it: relationship building skills, promotions, time management, an entrepreneurial spirit Etc, Etc. Whether it’s the economy or the market itself, I now look to Truman and Grant as I look to move on from ‘self-employed’ to re-employed. To not recognize this would be a challenge to Einstein’s definition of insanity: “doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.”

I will admit that my timing may have been off TWICE: Once in my start up, once in my seeking a new full time position given the economy and some hiring managers’ view of those who are unemployed. So be it.

Looking back at successes I have had, I know I can, like Grant, return and prosper. With an open mind that Truman inspires, I even look to a new industry that matches my skills. In that thinking, I do not have the arrogance of stepping in at the same level of my previous industry, but rather would expect and welcome a step back to prove myself, and my worth.
With all that in mind, I refer to a quote from Abraham Lincoln, for employers to consider: “If there is anything that a man can do well, I say let him do it. Give him a chance.”
That’s all I need.
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/b/264/545

Friday, June 25, 2010

Customer Service - Building Relationships and Business

"Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it." -Dwight Eisenhower
There is a phrase in business - "internal & external customers (clients)". I have been building these internal relationships before I had even heard the phrase. To me it just made sense. These folks (sometimes department managers) Have their part in the company's overall operation as much as mine. I treat them like I want them to treat me. I don't bark at them- I have always tried to make them understand MY side, and the impact of the situation. In many cases, I became the 'go-to' even if I had a senior manager overseeing a project. This was simply because I could get things done. I earned the respect of these 'internal customers' because I respected them and worked with them. I have worked along side their people quiet often to learn THEIR side, and procedures. This has shown me how they interpret what WE do, and likewise how we can communicate better.

Now that is not to say I don't hold them accountable. In one specific situation, I would push when need be. But it was done with KNOWLEDGE. The other Dept head was defending his employee (as a good manager will), but when I pointed out some facts from what I learned, he had to concede that I was more right than wrong. A fix would be put in place and we would move forward.

Call it leadership or call it teamwork- I call it good business and just plain common sense.
Looking forward to putting that back to work.
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/thomas-drake/b/264/545

Friday, June 4, 2010

Bad Call

I can remember always being told “write what you know about.” Well in this case, what I know about is me- my experience recruiting, interviewing, hiring in this case. Please stick with me.
The situation up for discussion below, is prompted by the Blown Call that stole a perfect game form the Tiger’s Armando Galarraga. It seems most agree that the call was wrong, and the runner was out at first. Those same folks also think Armando showed the talent to earn the perfect game. That’s where consensus ends. Some say it should be corrected, while others say no (it’s past- “that’s life”). I’m in the camp that with an obvious error that was seen right away (not days or weeks later) the commissioner has the opportunity to right the wrong. This is a life changing decision. Look past the box what was done to what happened.
NOW ONTO THE PART ABOUT ME- I am (like many other Americans) seeking my next FT opportunity. I was once a hiring manager and had to pour over applications and determine who to interview and (ultimately) who to hire. My feeling was ‘can they do the job’ not necessarily ‘HAVE they done the job.’ Those would be brought in for an interview and sized up further (Can they fit in with the team? how will I manage this person? What will they add to the organization?) If they progressed forward, the job (and compensation) would be described further. Finally decisions would be made.
MY POINT (I AM getting there)—As part of my job search I have posted my resume on the job sites. Well, a recruiter emailed me a job description (and $) saying he saw my resume, and asked, if I was interested to send a current resume. I sent the SAME resume and expressed my interest in moving my matching experience to the field (giving multiple examples of said matches) He replied back- sorry you’re overqualified, I won’t submit you.
HUHHH?
I get (generally) “overqualified.” HOWEVER- This would be one step back from my prior position but in a DIFFERENT industry- I replied back again telling him I feel this step back as part of an industry transfer is EXPECTED by me, ESPECIALLY in this economy. His answer: The company only wants someone doing it- I’m just following orders.
Uh-huh. I have heard others tell similar stories about being “overqualified.” I wonder if some see the #s- 10% unemployed, and over 50% over a year out. When competition for jobs is so fierce, I am surprised any company would not see the reality and –at least- talk to talent they could add. Of course in this case, the recruiter ‘protected’ them from that.
Bad call.

Monday, May 17, 2010

One step back, two steps forward.

This “quote” has numerous versions. The order shifting sometimes – reversed- to emphasize a positive or negative feel to give the point of view its power.
As stated above, it represents some in the job market (myself included). There is a time for some where the need or desire to move to a different industry comes to the forefront. The reason why are too many to list or go into here, so I will speak to me and my own thoughts.
My last employer was hit by the economic woes seen across the country bad enough to close EVERY LOCATION in the U.S! Job searching for me has had some aspects of evolution over the course of time. Compiling the top lines for job descriptions has made me REALLY look back at each position I had to see what I enjoyed and what I excelled at.
Targeting these positions means (mostly) looking to a new industry. As a result of looking to transfer skills – I am willing-expecting to take a step back in position level in order to accomplish this. It is something I am willing to do to re-establish myself in an area I can not only succeed or thrive in, but offer skills to the employer.
Easier said than done.
Example: a recruiter contacts me, having seen my resume on a job website. He says he likes what he sees. He gives the job description (and pay). He asks IF I’m interested; please send a current resume and availability to speak with me.
I reply~ YES, Emphasize a couple of points that match my experience, give a time to speak, and send a resume (the SAME resume that was on said website).
His response- “you’re obviously overqualified …what do you think?” Despite my explanation of transferring skills and acknowledging all the above….NOTHING.
Ironically my daughter (early in the job market) is also a job seeker and recently said to me about an entry level position she was declined for – “How do you GET the experience if they won’t hire you to GET it?”
As a former hiring manager, I can only imagine the landslide of applications that could come in. It is disappointing; however, I DO think of all the talent that I could speak with and possibly add to my team. It seems many employers (&/or recruiters?) are wearing blinders, not willing to mine for the gems thru an interview.
When I send an application, my letter makes it clear why and how I can bring benefits to the company. All I ask is for the chance to speak about the details and take 2 steps forward.

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Job Hunting and The Lottery

I was flipping channels and came across the movie “DAVE.” It’s about a “down to earth guy that looks like the President & is put into place when the President is incapacitated.” (Fun movie- catch it if you can). ANYWAY; He’s giving a speech and says (paraphrasing-something to the effect) ‘Have you ever seen the face of someone when they get a job… a purpose... they can look themselves in the mirror knowing they’ve accomplished a day’s work…they look like they could fly.’
It made me think about myself and friends, ex coworkers who are (still) searching for work; searching online, networking, making calls and knocking on doors. Playing our numbers as it were.
Here’s the thing- have you ever known someone who played the lottery? They kept playing their ‘lucky number’ because they ‘knew’ they would win soon? WHY? “They were due.” Or because- “it was going to be their turn.’
Yeah…Uh--huh.
Well, you see, it doesn’t work like that in real life. Neither does job hunting.
It is like a lottery in that you keep on ‘playing’ – crossing your fingers that today’s your day. But- you only win when the stars align, - “the numbers match” (i.e. your skills outmatches the other guy or gal’s in regard to the needs of the company).
Not because it’s your turn. Not because you’re due. The Wall St Journal says that 59% of those unemployed have been so over a year.
So wish me luck, I’ll keep playing until my numbers come in.

Monday, April 19, 2010

With Apologies to the Rolling Stones.

You can’t always get what you want.
Over the last week or so I’ve been reminded of this wisdom in more than one way. Is it frustrating? YOU BET! We have all had a disappointment of the kind that made us feel ‘cheated’ or ‘robbed’ I’m sure.
Some are obviously harder to get over than others but, there is normally little choice- Time passes and drags us with it. Now, I have no magic spell to ease that pain- (Boy do I wish I did!!), we all have to find our own way through it. Sometimes it feels like you’re trudging through molasses, sometimes it’s a sprint. While some of my recent experiences are more like the former, one over the weekend reminded me of another line from the same song “you get what you need.”
Over the weekend I made a choice based on not only ‘gut instinct’ but on principles. Some others made a choice swayed by what it would look like to others (I feel -knowing what they’ve told me prior). I am in no position to criticize or condemn, by ANY means. I just had to do what I felt was the right thing, for ME.
One more quote to sum up my decision (not musical, but literaryinstead this time): “to thine own self be true.” With thanks to Shakespeare.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Hidden job market?

My opinion on finding the "hidden job market" is it's about luck. Luck of the "right" contacts who know before a job is posted or a need that could be solved by your hire/position creation. The other possibility is a cold call or well timed 'application'.
I had these happen twice. The 1st was when I applied to a job posting, and was called for an interview. At the end of the interview, I was told the job I applied for was filled, but there was just an opening created when someone quit. "Would you be interested?" led to a 2nd interview and hire. No ad was ever placed.
The Second instance was because of the fact I had stayed in touch with a former boss. He was aware I was looking at a possible move and asked to meet with me. He recruited me back- creating a new position in order to bring me on board. Sadly that company is now no longer with us. Closed up. Gone.
Man would I LOVE to recreate EITHER of those now
!!!! So far I haven’t timed the cold call right, and friends either tell me there’s NOTHING on the horizon or worse, they are just trying to hang on to their own jobs!
But, I’ll keep plugging- keep trying. Polls, reports, and news stories show I’m far from alone.
hiredrake@yahoo.com or http://www.linkedin.com/pub/b/264/545

Saturday, April 3, 2010

Hoppy Easter!

To many this Sunday is a religious milestone. A time of renewed faith. To others it is another step toward (actual) Spring. A rebirth of the outdoors. To sports fans it’s also the start of a new season. A time to ‘Play Ball!’ To still others it means chocolate bunnies and marshmallow ‘Peeps.’
Well, call me an “everyman” I guess. I vote for all of the above.
Happy Easter.
Happy Spring.
SWING Batta!
And brush your teeth when you’re done.

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Customer (Dis)Service:

I grew up in a small family business and was taught to take care of the customer- make them ‘happy campers.'
It seemed really simple- the “golden rule” approach. Treat customers with the courtesy, respect AND POLITENESS that you yourself would want to be treated. “Please”- “May I help you?”- “Thank You”
I was somewhat surprised a couple of years ago to find that others I knew were SO happy if the kid at McDonald’s (or wherever) actually said thank you when handing you your change. (Side note another pet peeve is when my change is slid across the counter=????)
Why should people have to be impressed like that, or satisfied if the service is neutral/non-offensive??
I say they shouldn’t!
Customers usually only speak up to complain (yeah, I do); to let management know if someone is rude, evasive about getting you an answer (“Let me speak to your supervisor!”) etc, etc. HOWEVER- I also speak up when I get good service! I let the manager know his employees are good workers, that I had a good experience in his establishment. If he has worked to accomplish that, GREAT- he and his employee can feel good. If he was not behind it- maybe give him an idea to see “why did the customer appreciate THAT employee?” Either way it can only grow and advance the process.
Going out to eat I have had good service and bad service. In more than one case, I have told the server not only through a tip, but also directly, that they had made the meal enjoyable with attentive service and a great personality (Heck- I even tried to hire one!).
My father-in-law taught me something while working for him: You can’t buy enough advertising to get you what GOOD word of mouth does- and- You can’t spend enough money to overcome BAD word of mouth! So true. I’ll be an ambassador for the business where I had a good experience. A bad experience = I am a company’s worst nightmare!
Too many companies don’t ‘fight the tide’ and TEACH customer service. I will go OUT OF MY WAY to not give them my business. Still others realize the simple- basic lesson, the one that has guided me as a manager WHEREVER I worked. I learned through asking myself and my team a question whose answer means success and growth. –
“How do YOU want to be treated?”

Friday, March 26, 2010

Ethics and Responsibility: Don't Leave Home Without Them

I was always taught that “if you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything” - meaning know what matters to you, what you stand for (what you know as right or wrong. ) I (we) were told to take those values- those beliefs, and speak them proudly. MORE than that – LIVE THEM in your life; DEMONSTRATE what you believe through your actions. In doing all those things, you also needed to have some defense of your position. Sometimes it may be based on religion (Thou shall not steal). Other times there may be based on experience (I manage & lead people as I would want my ‘boss’ to treat me). Maybe it’s more historical (‘…all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights…”). But NEVER was I told it was good to take a stand purely because ‘it was all about me’ and forget how it affects the rest.
To me the basis of my values- philosophies, was really about not doing harm to others, but rather how this position could help more than just you.
Sadly in my life, I have seen too many times where others either have ignored these teachings or were taught very differently. Too many people look at ‘what’s in it for me?’ Too many times have I seen those that care only about their outcome regardless even when others are harmed. Still worse is that with my own ears I have heard them justify rather than defend why they acted that way. The sounds of the two are most definitely different. Despite being confronted with this repeatedly in life- in school, at work, from celebrities or politicians; (are you nodding in agreement?); I still hold onto what makes me- well, me. So even when the odds are against me, I know I only have one choice.
Stand up.

Monday, March 22, 2010

Team Effort

In a recent interview, I -of course -talked about my career highlights. While there were ideas I came up with, plans I guided to completion, etc- a different thought came to mind.
What my mind flashed to was my teams -- yes teams, not employees. I could not talk about my successes without talking about them. First, because a good leader and manager is not an island. His team can make or break him in some cases. Picking the right people, setting expectations, providing opportunity, guidance, and recognition all make a difference. My second reason-- The actual developing of team members was an achievement itself. Seeing them as the individuals that they are, and motivating, coaching each with that focus. Through group meetings, one on ones and daily discussions, I could make a difference in their career growth. I was happy to offer them a chance for success of their own, and also because how I trained and developed my team ultimately says allot about me, and my abilities.

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

HAPPY SAINT PATRICK'S DAY!

When people reminisce about holidays, it's usually Christmas- Maybe Halloween or Thanksgiving. I'd say St Patrick's day isn't high on the list.
But to me it's special. When I was a kid is was about green decorations, colored cupcakes and (of course) Corn Beef! As a teen the cupcakes value rivaled the Corn Beef, but something new was added. I came upon a song by Paul McCartney - "Give Ireland back to the Irish." I heard it on the radio and special ordered a 45 (that's a small 'record'-- not a gun) at my local record store. The song was an odd reminder that my heritage came from Ireland on one side, and England on another.
Anyway. As a father, I tried to pass on the things that I thought were the most fun. I added the tradition of green pancakes as my own contribution to the legacy (ahh the magic of food coloring!).
Now as I look back, my children grown up (technically anyhow- in their 20's) -I find I miss alot of things on holidays. Including green pancakes.
Erin go braugh!

Friday, March 12, 2010

SPRING FORWARD?

Well I guess it makes sense....
I mean the changing of the clocks certainly applies here (move 'em forward). Then you DO have the idea that Spring is a time of 'renewal'- starting things- coming out of our fever run cabins. These are all things you would associate with moving FORWARD.
Considering the Winter we had (yes, yes, I know- it COULD HAVE BEEN worse!) I am all for moving forward!!
Onto warmer weather! On to more sunlight! on to BASEBALL!!
Then again- there's yard work and (I live on Cape Cod) tourists.
Oh well. Nothings perfect. ;-)

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Perception

Perception is reality... or so some say.
Have you ever reached into the back row when buying milk? Bypassing the front row- the still good - not nearly 'expired' carton or jug?
How about when you go to make a sandwich? Do you (George Carlin fans know) reach past the first few pieces to get to the "fresh stuff?"
Why is this? Perception?? Is there anything wrong with what's up front?? Of course not.
Now how about wine? Don't most pay more for the "aged?" When you prepare meat- do you sprinkle a little sauce or take time to marinate- to truly season it?
Now I'm sure there are so many more examples (and some that may seek to disprove my point). But for the point of THIS discussion I am simply trying to point out that "fresh" and "aged" can be looked at in some different ways.
My problem is NOT my age, here- it's the unfortunate length of time I have been out of work since my old company folded! There are many (not all -granted) hiring managers that look at you - or should I say WON'T look at you- based on the length of time you have been out of work. One recent online application had the question right under name/address!
What is REALLY happening is competition (too many applicants- too few jobs)! H/Ms and automated applications can afford to look at employment status as well as other factors. Having done hiring in my most recent postition, I tried to look at the quality-opportunity in each resume. Speaking to the person to get the best idea possible for a match (for the job, for my team).
If all the milk was the same date- would you not buy any? or is it because there is a day or 2 fresher available? All I can say is I have the experience and drive (seasoning)- I just need a chance. hiredrake@yahoo.com

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

On lighter note.. some thoughts that pop into your head before you realize it:
1. I think part of a best friend's job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.
2. I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was younger.
3. How the hell are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?
4. Was learning cursive really necessary?
5. Map Quest really needs to start their directions on #5. I'm pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.
6. Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.
7. I can't remember the last time I wasn't at least kind of tired.
8. Bad decisions make good stories.
9. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.
10. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue Ray? I don't want to have to restart my collection...again.
11. I hate when I just miss a call by the last ring (Hello? Hello? Damn it!), but when I immediately call back, it rings nine times and goes to voicemail. What'd you do after I didn't answer? Drop the phone and run away?
12. I hate leaving my house confident and looking good and then not seeing anyone of importance the entire day. What a waste.
13. I keep some people's phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.
14. I think the freezer deserves a light as well.
15. I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet on any given Friday or Saturday night more kisses begin with Miller Lite’s than Kay.

Monday, February 15, 2010

Just starting out

Well here it is, my first "official" (?) blog.
Hmmm.
I've posted numerous topics on various online groups and responded to a vastly higher number with my comments and - or opinions.
So looking forward to drafting and sharing something different in this forum.
Me? I'm part of the 17 to 20% who are fighting to get an interview and get re-established in the "New Economy"
While I have created promotional copy before, be it articles, News Realeases or brochures/flyers, I have to wonder how this experience will be different.
In most ways- I'm the product. Beyond that I will look to other things to write about: News? Events? Places I ave been- want to go? or more likely- Random thoughts.
Hang on- the ride starts here!
;-)