Reference Check

An article on Page 2D in The Dallas Morning News September 29, 2010, edition by Diane Stafford of The Kansas City Star, “Reference Check” provides some important suggestions concerning one’s references. References are very important particularly for individuals who have been out of the workplace for some time. Here are the suggestions:

1. Don’t list references from more than 10 years ago. What these people say may not be relevant today.


2. A good reference doesn’t have to be a boss. A peer who has a good reputation or high profile in the profession is good.


3. If past bosses aren’t available, consider using vendors or clients.


4. Have you been an active volunteer? The executive director of the nonprofit could comment on your energy, dependability and attitude.


5. Professors and teachers can vouch for communication skills, the ability to meet deadlines and overall intelligence.


6. Religious leaders can speak to character.


It is important to obtain approval from your references. In addition, I think that you should discuss what they would comment about you to an inquiring party. Your references should be current and be well-informed about the kind of job you are seeking and be able to speak accurately about your credentials.

You should assume that your references will be contacted. Once I interviewed an individual for a computer programming position. He gave me the contact information for his previous boss as his reference. I called the reference who immediately informed me that applicant was not dependable and should not be hired. Needless to say, I wished the applicant Godspeed.

Please share with readers of this blog your ideas about references.

Thanks! Glyn

Help with Resumes?

This week I was one of the group discussion leaders at the Resume Writers Conference held in Fort Worth, Texas. The conference was attended by self-employed resume writers and placement counselors from universities throughout the US and Europe. Discussions with the group have convinced me that many individuals seeking employment may be greatly assisted by such professionals.

One person I spoke with specializes in developing resumes for individuals seeking government employment. Based on the successes shared by the conference participants, I think that a relative small investment could pay significant dividends – like getting a job!

Please share with readers of this blog your experience in receiving assistance in developing your resume.

Thanks. Glyn

Overseas Jobs for Americans

An article on Page 33a by Norimitsu Onishi of The New York Times in the September 19, 2010, edition of The Dallas Morning News in Section 1 discusses OFWs – “overseas Filipinos workers” got me thinking about possible jobs for Americans overseas.

I did a Google search on “overseas jobs for Americans” and was frankly surprised at the number of job postings for Americans to work overseas.  For example, you might check-out these websites:

http://www.jobmonkey.com/europejobs/us-government-jobs.html, http://www.jobline.net/jobiraq1.htm,

http://www.jobsabroad.com,

http://www.anamericanabroad.com/jobs.html,

http://philfaqs.com/live-there/jobs-for-americans-overseas-in-the-philippines.

Overseas work may require sacrifices and hardships; however, the compensation may be sufficient for you to pursue the opportunities. Please share with readers of this blog your thinking concerning overseas employment opportunities.   

Thanks!    Glyn    

Why Did Jesse James Rob Banks?

Why Did Jesse James Rob Banks?

During my wife and my visit to Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick, we frequently heard locals say the reason why the population in their provinces is declining is the lack of opportunities for young people.  Such conversations remind me of the old saying about Jesse James: “Why do you rob banks, Jesse? – It is because there is where the money is!”

I do not blame anyone for moving west to find meaningfully and productive work.  Such moves frequently require sacrifices by individuals seeking opportunities; however, reluctance to make changes may deprive individuals of a better life.

Horace Greeley is often credited with a famous quote actually made by John B. L. Soule. The quote first appeared as the title to the 1851, Terre Haute Express editorial written by Mr. Soule. Along with being wrongly credited to Mr. Greeley, it has also often been misquoted. It was originally written as:

"Go West, young man, and grow up with the country." 

This information is quoted from an editorial by David Chuhran posted on the Internet

Please share with readers of this blog your thinking about relocating to find employment.   Have you ever moved to get job?   

Thanks!    Glyn    

Fishing Jobs!

While waiting for the ferry to go to Prince Edward Island, I visited with several fisherman waiting for midnight to go fishing for herring.  There is a separate season with the various types of fish here, and when the quota for a given fish is reached by all fishing boatings, the fishing is over for the season. 

I asked the fishman if there were jobs available.  They suggested that I go speak with the captain.  Since my experience in fishing is limited,  I decided to catch the ferry to Prince Edward Island where I am today.

Thanks.  Glyn

Nova Scotia Jobs

My wife and I are on holiday in Nova Scotia.  The main excitement has been Hurricane Earl which is having quite a blow here with no major damage.

While visiting with several citizens on Cheticamp, I have found this location to be very tourist dependent during the season from May to early October. Otherwise, there are not many jobs available. 

We have enjoyed learning about Acadians who settled here in the 1700's.  Many relocated to Louisiana. Whale watching was very exciting as well.  We look forward to visiting Alexander Grahm Bell Museum.

Thanks.

Glyn