Monday, May 31, 2010

Summertime … Summertime … Summertime – The “Unofficial Start” is Monday, Memorial Day …

The season where jobs don’t go away --- job seekers do!

We wait all year for the summer in the Capital Region. There is just so much to do and savor. Maybe too much!

Summer is also the time of the year (second only to the holidays in December) when job seekers defect for the summer, and just plain stop looking. Their assumption: The 3rd quarter is not a good time to be looking – after all, its summer and businesses slow.

Not so. No proof of this at all.

In fact, there is proof just to the opposite.

* The Summer months – June – July – August do not show any decline in the number of job postings week by week – the numbers are consistent.

* This year posting are up over 100% from last year – and the trend is continuing.

* Surveys are forecasting that hiring activity will continue to be strong the upcoming quarter. Local surveys on upcoming hiring plans are the strongest I have seen in 2 and one-half years.

So why is it job seekers just put their resume on the shelf for the summer.


They buy into the myth that jobs dry up in the summer. As of Wednesday May 26, there were over 6300 9 jobs posted online within a 50 mile radius of Albany and were posted within the prior seven days. Of course, not every posting is right for you, and there are all types of industries, skill sets and experience represented; however, the number is significant.

Were you going to put your resume on the shelf on the Summer – do just the opposite …

Consider these ideas:

* Many will still opt out for the summer – so the competition for jobs is not as strong – Take advantage of this and use it to your ben

* Use summer events as networking opportunities – Picnics, social gatherings, events all are excellent ways to connect with others. Networking is still the most effective and best way to land a job – use the summer to network, network, network (and have fun too!). You never know who you may meet that could help you in your search.

* Adjust your schedule a bit – You will find that on Fridays during the summer, many people take longer weekends or have alternative work schedules during the summer. You will find it difficult to get in touch with people on Fridays (I see this in my own business as well – so I take Fridays off).

* Be flexible – It is true that decisions on hiring during the summer months (and the holiday season as well) sometimes take longer as people are out on vacations. Don’t get frustrated if the call that was to be this week rolls into next week by an employer. Keep your schedule options open as well, and be flexible to meet an interviewer’s need.

* Be connected. Hiring managers complain they can’t get in touch with candidates. Candidates travel, vacation or just check out and don’t return emails or phone calls promptly, and that doesn’t look good. So – be connected.

And of course, enjoy the summer and have fun!


As always, thank you for reading this. - Dan

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Job Market Update: May 27, 2010

Just an update -- the job market indicators continue to be strong. Take advantage - keep aggressive -- win!

And thank you for reading this. - Dan
_______________________________________________________________________________
For Immediate Release
For Information, Dan Moran 518-641-8968

Albany, NY, May 27, 2010

Job Postings Down Slightly Last Seven Days – Close to 3000 higher than last year

(Albany, NY, May 27, 2010) – Job postings in the Capital Region were slightly lower this past seven days, a trend seen across New York State as well. However, while down less than 3%, postings were still close to 3000 higher than the same period last year. “This slight decrease is fully expected as we enter a long holiday weekend. Historically job market activity slows the week before and the week after a major holiday. Job postings the last seven days averaged 6250 and that is very good”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie. Moran assists individuals in identifying new careers and also those in the midst of a job search and needing direction. His firm also tracks the job market on a regional and statewide basis.

Other markets in New York State showed similar results. The Capital Region continues to outpace Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse for job postings. The Capital Region is the smallest of all these markets as well.

Job postings in the Region are normally in the baseline of 4000 – 4900 on a weekly basis and 7-day rolling average, consistent for this area. Monitoring job postings is a leading indicator of hiring within the following 30-45 days. This methodology is utilized by reading research houses nationally and is employed in the Region by Moran’s firm. For the purpose of reporting, the Region is defined as a 50 mile radius of Albany.

## End##

About Next-Act

Next-Act, a division of DVG, Inc. is a career management & transition firm directed by Dan Moran, the Founder & President of the firm. Moran contributes over thirty years experience in career consulting, business and human resources management. Moran is noted for his expertise in helping today’s “boomers” move on to fulfilling second careers, while helping executives and professionals achieve their career goals. The firm also provides human resources consulting and corporate services to companies. Moran is also a certified facilitator for C.J. Hayden’s Get Clients Now! & Get Hired Now! programs.

For further press information: http://www.next-act.com/press_room.


Dan Moran
President & Founder
Next-Act
Career Management & Transition Specialists
125 Wolf Road, Suite #128
Albany, NY 12205
Office: 518-261-4212
Cell: 518-641-8968
eFax: 586-279-4212
dmoran@next-act.com

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Career & Life 2.0: Live Young -- In Mind ...

Nobody grows old by merely living a number of years. People grow old by deserting their ideals. You are as young as your faith, as old as your doubt; as young as your self-confidence, as old as your fear; as young as your hope, as old as your despair." - General Douglas MacArthur

The General's quote is so true. People grow old when they desert their ideals. When they just let go. When they give up on their hopes, and dreams. It is how you look at the life you lead that defines how you will live, prosper and grow -- and what your life age is.

Life isn't measured in the number of years one has on this great planet. It is measured in what one does, how they conduct their life and the difference they make - the mark they leave.

Let go of age. Let go of the "norms" one is supposed to do. Do what you want, do what you love. Define your age in your actions, confidence and your hope. Live large.

And thank you for reading this - Dan
Dan Moran
President & Founder, Next-Act
Career Management & Transition Specialists
125 Wolf Road, Suite #128
Albany, NY 12205
Cell: 518-641-8968
Office: 518-261-4212 Fax: (586) 279-4212
dmoran@next-act.com
www.next-act.com

Monday, May 24, 2010

There sizzle in the numbers - job numbers that is ...

On Thursday, the NYS Department of Labor reported that the unemployment percentage in the area plummeted (they didn’t say that – I did) from 7.2% in March to 6.5% in April. It may not look like it at first glance, but that is a huge drop in one month – a drop I haven’t seen in many, many months. Further it was reported that we had real job growth in our region as well --- and that is very important.

To add fuel to this fire, there has been and continues to be a significant rise in the number of job postings in our region, defined as a 50 mile radius of Albany. This past seven days we averaged 6600 job postings on a day-to-day basis, and that are a leading indicator of jobs to come (employers post opportunities, screen, interview, select and hire – and that takes generally 30-60 days). This is over 100% higher then last year at this time – yes over 100%.

See the full details below in my job market update. Been sitting on the sidelines waiting to get back into the jobs game – time to jump in!

And thank you for reading this. – Dan

_________________________________________

For Immediate Release

For Information, Dan Moran 518-641-8968

Albany, NY, May 19, 2010

Job Postings Up Past Seven Days

(Albany, NY, May 19, 2010) – Job postings in the Capital Region increased by close to 500 over the previous seven day period, topping close to 6600, up from 6150. This is yet another high this year and is signaling a very positive trend for our Region. Last year, job postings for the same period were just slightly over 3250.

“What a difference a year makes. Last year, we were seeing job postings in the low three thousands and this year, better than double that showing a sharp recovery in the market. This is also being more people back into the job market fueled by renewed confidence, so the market for jobs is ever more competitive”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie. Moran assists individuals in identifying new careers and also those in the midst of a job search and needing direction. His firm also tracks the job market on a regional and statewide basis.

Other markets in New York State didn’t fare as well, with decreases noted with the exception of metro NYC which saw a sharp increase after a few weeks of being down. The Capital Region continues to outpace Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse for job postings. The Capital Region is the smallest of all these markets as well.

Dan Moran

President & Founder

Next-Act

Career Management & Transition Specialists

125 Wolf Road, Suite #128

Albany, NY 12205

Office: 518-261-4212

Cell: 518-641-8968

eFax: 586-279-4212

dmoran@next-act.com

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Take Chances – or just "live" still …

“When you stop taking chances You'll stay where you sit
You won't live any longer But it'll feel like it” -- Bono (1960 – ) Irish music artist

There are two ways to proceed in your career and work life – or your life in general:

The safe and easy way – take no chances, don’t go out on a limb, be content where you are …

Or …

Take chances and risks --- not as safe for sure, but more exciting for many …

I have heard, over and over again in my practice “… if I had only…””



* “If I had only taken that chance at that new opportunity at work …”
* “If I had only been a bit more risky and took that other job …”
* “If I had only invested in that business when the opportunity arose …”
* “If I had only been more open-minded … listened to others …followed my instinct … took a chance.

And the list could go on and on.

As Bono says above, you’ll live just as long if you don’t take chances in your life – but it will be a life perhaps devoid of excitement, opportunity to excel and live your dreams or be all you can be. It is comfortable to do the same-old, same-old day-after-day – but that comfort likely will not bring you further achievement, if that is what you want.

Getting out of your comfort zone, looking at opportunities in a different manner and taking chances (calculated – do your homework), will open new options for you, create a new buzz in your life and career and make others look at you in a different manner.

So --- ready to get out of your comfort zone? Tips to guide you:

* Take calculated risks – only – There is taking risks, and there is taking foolish risks without doing your homework, due diligence and research first. It is critical to fully understand an opportunity or situation that presents itself before you jump in with both feet. Ask others for their opinion. Research on the internet. Find whatever information you can to help you evaluate the chance you are about to take.



* Think about the what if --- What if you are 100% wrong and make the wrong decision – ask yourself this question: What is the worst that can happen? You take the risk on a new job and it doesn’t work out – you move on to another job backed by yet another learning experience. You find yourself in a career that you just don’t care for – find your happiness and change your direction (most just starting their job life will change careers between 2 and 5 times during their working life). Take a chance on a relationship that isn’t working – that’s an easy one; change it up. Invest in a business that seems to be going nowhere – cut your losses before you get too deep and again learn.

When you ask yourself the question what is the worst that can happen and you are true to yourself in looking at the answers you will likely find that a mistake won’t be devastating for life. Perhaps a bit uncomfortable for awhile, but not life-ending.



* When you know that the answer is yes take the risk – do it with gusto, don’t look back, don’t second guess yourself – You need to be either all in, or not in at all. When you make your decision to embark and get out of your comfort zone, that needs to be top-of-mind and the center of all your actions and plans. You need to believe in yourself and what you are doing. If you don’t, you can’t expect others to believe in you.

Get in the game. Go for the shot – take a chance to score big time and excel. Enjoy the trip!

Dan Moran

President & Founder

Next-Act

Career Management & Transition Specialists

125 Wolf Road, Suite #128

Albany, NY 12205

Office: 518-261-4212

Cell: 518-641-8968

eFax: 586-279-4212

dmoran@next-act.com

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Job Market Update - May 13, 2010

Just an update and my latest job market report for the week. Plus .. beware of the scammers -- see below. - Dan
_____________________________________________________________________________________

For Immediate Release
For Information, Dan Moran 518-641-8968

Albany, NY, May 12, 2010

Job Postings Up Past Seven Days

(Albany, NY, May 12, 2010) – Job postings in the Capital Region increased slightly over the previous seven day period, coming in at just about 6150 up from just over 6000 the week prior.

“We are continuing to see consistency in the number of job postings and that number is in the 5000 – 6000 – and sometimes over 7000 range supporting recent local surveys that reported significant hiring activity in our Region, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie. Moran assists individuals in identifying new careers and also those in the midst of a job search and needing direction. His firm also tracks the job market on a regional and statewide basis.

Moran quotes a CBS6/Capital Region Human Resources Association (CRHRA) survey that reported 52% of employers in the region are hiring with over 35% adding to their workforce, not just replacing employees that left or were laid off. “I conducted the survey on behalf of CBS6 and CRHRA and frankly was amazed at the activity myself. I knew the number was higher than the forecasted 27 – 35% -- but 52% is very strong”.

For the first time in several weeks, other markets in NYS showed strong increases in job posting activity, consistent in Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Metro NYC. The largest increase was in Rochester which had been quite through the Spring. Metro NYC show significant growth as well, after falling back for a period of time. The Capital Region continues to outpace Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse for job postings. The Capital Region is the smallest of all these markets as well.

Job Seekers Beware
Identify theft. Bogus business opportunities. Schemes to defraud you. “The unfortunate truth is that the internet job boards are loaded with these types of postings and job seekers need to be aware – now more than ever”, stated Dan Moran. “There are those who prey on the job seeker who may just be desperate, so one needs to be cautions – always”.

Moran provides these 6-tips:

• NEVER give your Social security number to anyone or include in any application on the job boards. This has been the source of many identify theft cases, and there is no reason a potential employer needs your social security number at any point until they ask to do a background check.

• NEVER send any money for an “application fee”. This is a true sign of a scam.

• NEVER pay for information on how you can make money stuffing envelopes or making phone calls or other type of home-based opportunity. Again, a scam to avoid.

• ASK questions if you cannot determine what a company who has contacted you does in their business. If they are evasive, be cautious. If you cannot find information on the company by searching on the internet, that is a sign that you might want to stay away.

• DO NOT accept an interview at someone’s home. There are many home-based businesses that hire people; ask to meet at a coffee shop or other public spot. It just isn’t safe, and best to avoid.

• FOLLOW your instincts. If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is just that. Many will make outlandish promises to lure you in and then ask you to “invest” in your job by making an investment in a business. If this isn’t clear up front, be very cautious.

## Background ##

Job postings in the Region are normally in the baseline of 4000 – 4900 on a weekly basis and 7-day rolling average, consistent for this area. Monitoring job postings is a leading indicator of hiring within the following 30-45 days. This methodology is utilized by reading research houses nationally and is employed in the Region by Moran’s firm. For the purpose of reporting, the Region is defined as a 50 mile radius of Albany.

## End##

About Next-Act

Next-Act, a division of DVG, Inc. is a career management & transition firm directed by Dan Moran, the Founder & President of the firm. Moran contributes over thirty years experience in career consulting, business and human resources management. Moran is noted for his expertise in helping today’s “boomers” move on to fulfilling second careers, while helping executives and professionals achieve their career goals. The firm also provides human resources consulting and corporate services to companies. Moran is also a certified facilitator for C.J. Hayden’s Get Clients Now! & Get Hired Now! programs.

For further press information: http://www.next-act.com/press_room.


Dan Moran
President & Founder
Next-Act
Career Management & Transition Specialists
125 Wolf Road, Suite #128
Albany, NY 12205
Office: 518-261-4212
Cell: 518-641-8968
eFax: 586-279-4212
dmoran@next-act.com

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Career Mistakes that can sink you ....

Everyone makes mistakes. The real key to success is making good on a mistake you made, or being watchful to the pitfalls you can avoid. With a number of new recent college graduates beginning new jobs and others wondering how to avoid career mistakes, I thought these tips would be helpful:

Not accepting responsibility
When you make a mistake in your work, fess up to it – accept responsibility. In his book on leadership Good to Great, Jim Collins identifies a key traits: When in the face of crisis when a mistake has been made, followers look for someone to blame; leaders look in the mirror and accept responsibility.

Not being a team player
No one likes a prima donna who is just focused on me – me – me. Being a team player, and contributing to joint efforts will help one define their success. Demonstrate that you've got the greater good of the organization at heart.

Working with a fear of failure
Many work every day doing the same thing over and over. They appear not to believe in themselves. If you don't believe in yourself, no one else will. Instead of saying, "I've never done that try "I'll learn how." Find learning opportunities in every situation. Consistently being risk-averse can be more hazardous to your career than making mistakes and learning from them.

Undermining people or the company
Talking behind the backs of others, undermining managers or the company. Discussing a confidential matter; spreading gossip. Not only will you find yourself isolated, but others will not trust you and when not trusted, your growth stops. Don’t engage others in inappropriate discussions. While there is such a thing as free speech, it's not so free if it costs you your job!

Being disrespectful
Being disrespectful to others – treating everyone as you would expect to be treated – is important. Being condescending to others, pretentious or making someone feel like they aren't good enough is so damaging to all. There is no place in a job for yelling or calling someone out in front of others.

Being one of the “walking dead”, without goals
You know them – the people who just come to work every day, do the bare minimum and simply collect a paycheck. They get by for awhile, but when business conditions require cost cutting, guess who’s the first to go. Always work with a set of goals – long and short term. Talk your goals over with your manager.

Checking your people skills at the door
Researchers found that if employees are disliked, it's almost irrelevant whether they're good at what they do, because other workers will avoid them. Go out of your way to communicate, establish strong working relationship with others, smile and be engaging with others, it will work wonders for you.

Sunday, May 9, 2010

CBS 6 Jobs Report - Are employers hiring?

I am part of the CBS 6 team developing the monthly job index for the Region. The results, just released, are impressive. See the press release below! - Dan
_____________________________________________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 6, 2010

New Employment Survey Uncovers Capital Region is Hiring
Employers also dismiss education as a primary qualification

Albany, Schenectady, Troy – CBS 6 News Anchor Jerry Gretzinger has released the first round of results from the station’s “CBS 6 Jobs Index”. The index is fueled by over 100 local businesses, big and small, that have agreed to complete a survey every month regarding their staffing levels as well as their general thoughts and feelings about the local employment climate.

Each month, respondents will be asked the same 5 questions, as well as 1 ‘Question of the Month’. The survey is conducted with the assistance of the Capital Region Human Resources Association and Dan Moran of Next-Act.

Questions and results for May, 2010 (based on 105 respondents)

1. Over the next calendar month, do you expect your company’s staffing level to:

Increase (hiring)? 52.5%
Decrease (reducing staff)? 3.8%
Stay the same? 43.8%

2. If you plan to grow your staffing level, by what amount will it change?

0-25 86.5%
26-50 8.1%
51-75 5.4%

3. If you are adding personnel, what is the reason behind it?

Replacing those left voluntarily 48.5%
Reinstating downsized positions 8.1%
Expanding/New positions 36.8%
Other 8.8%

4. *If reducing personnel, are the reductions:

Permanent
Temporary
Unknown at this time

5. How do you feel about the current employment climate in the Capital Region?

Very encouraged 2.9%
Somewhat encouraged 43.8%
Neutral 30.5%
Somewhat discouraged 19.0%
Very discouraged 3.8%

QOTM: Given your experience in hiring, what do you feel is the most important factor you look for in a job candidate?

Experience 18.3%
Education 0.0%
Industry experience 14.4%
“Fit” to job and corporate culture 77.3%


Dan Moran
President & Founder
Next-Act
Career Management & Transition Specialists
125 Wolf Road, Suite #128
Albany, NY 12205
Office: 518-261-4212
Cell: 518-641-8968
eFax: 586-279-4212
dmoran@next-act.com

Friday, May 7, 2010

Job Market Update - May 7, 2010

It has been a great eek for jobs in the region. See the latest press release on job posting activity - and get in the game!

Good Luck - Dan
___________________________________________________________________________________

For Immediate Release
For Information, Dan Moran 518-641-8968

Albany, NY, May 5, 2010

Job Postings Up Past Seven Days

(Albany, NY, May 5, 2010) – Job postings in the Capital Region increased the past seven days after a drop the week before, coming in at just over 6060, up from 5500 the week prior showing continued strength in the job market and employer confidence.

“We are seeing consistency in the number of job postings and that number is in the 5000 – 6000 range which is very good and comes on the heels of reported strength in job postings and hiring activity nationwide. This is good news for job seekers for sure and as ell, to those who have been waiting for the right time to jump into the job market and find a new and better opportunity”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie. Moran assists individuals in identifying new careers and also those in the midst of a job search and needing direction. His firm also tracks the job market on a regional and statewide basis.


Other markets in NYS didn’t fare as well, with decreases across all markets. “Metro NYC, after showing some strong gains, fell back this past week”. The Capital Region continues to outpace Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse for job postings. The Capital Region is the smallest of all these markets as well.



## Background ##

Job postings in the Region are normally in the baseline of 4000 – 4900 on a weekly basis and 7-day rolling average, consistent for this area. Monitoring job postings is a leading indicator of hiring within the following 30-45 days. This methodology is utilized by reading research houses nationally and is employed in the Region by Moran’s firm. For the purpose of reporting, the Region is defined as a 50 mile radius of Albany.

Monday, May 3, 2010

Celebrate Wins …

“Celebrate what you want to see more of.” – Thomas J. Peters

Often in life and business, good things happen:

• A big sale that you have been working on …
• A step forward in your family …
• A new job …
• A new career …
• An interview ….
• A call back from a resume (now wouldn’t that be nice!) …
• A defining moment in your life, relationship, business or career …

That good thing is just something that has an impact on your future, your career or your business that was “win” for you. An accomplishment --- a “stretch” for you and maybe a bit uncomfortable.

It happens, and then it’s on to the next thing – with no real celebration. No special acknowledgment. No atta-boy. No WOW. No party! Sounds familiar?

Athletes get metals when they win. Performers bask in applause. When you win, you need to stop in your tracks – and celebrate it. Give yourself something special. Recognize others. Take or give reward. Even the smallest of “wins” is cause for a celebration or reward for you.

There is a reason athletes, performers and others get recognition – it drive them to do better in their next endeavor, and celebrating wins for yourself will do the same. Set goals for yourself – and then create a set of actions (smaller goals) to achieve on the way to your bigger goal. As you accomplish and complete an action – celebrate and reward yourself. You will have the fuel and power to go on, and you will feel good about yourself.

Win – Celebrate – Win Again – and bask in the glory.