Thursday, September 30, 2010

Job Market Report - September 29, 2010

Not much change -- but no big drops so that is good. Also - tips on holiday jobs ---
______________________________________________________________________________________

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

Albany, NY, September 29, 2010

Job Postings Dip Slightly Past Seven Days – Holiday hiring looking better

(Albany, NY, September 29, 2010) – After climbing last week, job postings over the past seven days dipped slightly from 5500 to just about 5250 showing that employer confidence in hiring is still on the fence with no forward, sustained positive movement. “It seems clear that the economy and concerns over looming taxes, election and other events is causing employers to be cautious in hiring plans. Still however, the market is much better than last year at this time when job postings were in the 3300 range”, 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.

“We are still far off the mark set this past Spring when job postings were in the 6000-7000 range “. Moran added that markets across New York State saw similar results this past week, with some strong growth in Metro NYC. While a smaller market, the Capital Region still outpaces other NYS markets (with the exception of metro NYC).

Holiday Hiring Up – But Not to Pre-Recession Levels
Some good news in the market is that holiday hiring, which was anemic the past few years isn’t flat, isn’t booming, but better than last year. 20% of employers plan to hire more seasonal help this year and the huge layoffs in the retail sector – with 65% of retailers reporting that they had cut staff – appears to be subsiding. Giant Toys-R-Us plans to put 45,000 on the payroll for the holiday season. They also plan to open 600 temporary location stores to be staffed by 10,000 people employees.

Don’t Wait to Apply … And don’t think just retail …

Moran added, “Those interested in holiday employment should begin to apply now. Store managers and human resource staff will begin interviewing and building their list of potential workers now to be ready. A few tips:

• Above all, stress that you can be flexible. Don’t go in with demands for certain hour that appear to indicate that you can’t met their changing needs. Also, be flexible in the jobs you would do.
• Research the employer before applying ; know what they do, their products, hours etc. Show you are interested in being part of their team.
• Be prepared with your resume – yes even for a part-time seasonal position; it makes a difference,

Moran also suggested not just looking at retailers but as well, other businesses that are known to hire many holiday works like shipping companies, hospitality businesses, catering, restaurant and others. “Around the holiday, companies like FedEx and UPS hire thousands to help with the volume – and they pay 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.

## 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

Monday, September 27, 2010

Seeking a new job opportunity in your Boomer years?

Updating your skills is essential for success …

Over 33% of today’s workforce are classified as “boomers (born between 1946 and 1964). Unlike years past, there are endless opportunities for boomers in the workforce, so different than not too many years ago. If this is you, it is very important that you perform a “check-up” of your skills and tools you need to compete in today’s workforce:

1. Check-up and assess skills
Keep your skills current – and brush-up on those you feel you need to acquire. Make a list of your skills you can contribute – as well as those personal attributes – drive, focus, etc. Make a list of the skills you feel you need to learn or further develop – then take action to acquire.

2. Embrace Technology – be tech “savy”

Nothing will “date” you more than a lack of technology skills. You can have the best experience, personality and shine in the interview but without, you will find it difficult to beat any other candidate to a new opportunity. Get a good command of the Microsoft Office Suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint at the minimum.

If you find you are in need of training or tuning-up on one or more of these programs you can consider online tutorials, classroom training (usually one to two days) or a computer skills coach.

What should you never say that is a clear give away that you have not embraced technology?

Can you fax that to me --- it is easier than email …
I have an email address – but never check it …
What’s Windows …

Have a “professional” email address to use to communicate with others on a professional level. A email address like 2hot2handle@XXXX.com isn’t going to make the best impression!

3. Look in the mirror

Your appearance makes your first impression and formulates a person’s opinion before you open your mouth. Now is the time to update your wardrobe and look the part. Beyond your wardrobe, be mindful of your hair and personal grooming. Think sharp always – and look sharp always.

4. Make your best impression – on paper

You have likely amassed a number of experiences and skills that are transferable to a new career or job. Many make the mistake of presenting an older format chronological resume (in the “biz” we refer to as tombstones) rather that a document that “sells” your skills, qualifications and experience. Remember, you have 5 to 15 seconds to grab the reader’s attention – do so with your best impression. If you have difficulty writing about yourself, seek a professional to help – it make the world of difference.

5. Be seen – and network, network, network …

Developing and maintaining a deep network of contacts is an excellent resource at any stage in one’s career. One tip: Have a profile on the business-to-business social networking site www.linkedin.com (it is free – and essential!)

6. Understand generational differences – and embrace change.

Understanding the generational differences as a boomer, and knowing how to work with those of different generations is important to your success and is a critical skill to master. Many companies are asking boomer employees to mentor younger staff members, which has been very successful as well. In other words, try to fit in, adapt to change, listen and learn.

It is never too late to be what you want to be” – this hangs in my office.

Friday, September 24, 2010

Job Market Update for September 24, 2010

Hope you find this helpful ... better news this week!
______________________________________________________

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

Albany, NY, September 22, 2010

Job Postings Halt Several Week Decline – Up Last Seven Days and Back to Summer Levels

(Albany, NY, September 22, 2010) – After several weeks of decline, job postings in the in the Capital Region rebounded the past seven days, coming in at just over 5500, up from 4400 the week prior after weeks of declining numbers. While better, job postings continued to down significantly from the 6000-7000 levels reported during the Spring of this year, news that aligns to national reports of stalled recovery.

“I have been watching for the decline to halt and some growth occur and it appears that this week, we have hopefully turned the corner with a nice increase. I watch the numbers on a day to day basis and late last week, started seeing robust posting activity – and that is 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.

Moran added that markets across New York State saw small increases or flat numbers the past week. While a smaller market, the Capital region still outpaces other NYS markets (with the exception of metro NYC).

# 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

Monday, September 20, 2010

Defining Real & True Success .. and then getting out of the rat’s maze …

"You have reached the pinnacle of success as soon as you become uninterested in money, compliments, or publicity". - Thomas Wolfe

How do you measure success?

This is a routine question I ask of all those I work with – just how do you measure success?

The answers I receive are lumped into two buckets:

1. Material Success
2. Authentic Success

There is a significant difference between these two – huge difference. One can be easily measured; the other is state of being that we all strive for. Material success is measured in the trappings – money, material things, robust social relationships, home, cars, and the list can go one. These are the things we can put on hands on and touch – feel – count. We can show others. We can show off. But at the end of the day, is that real success?

Authentic success is a higher level of spirit. It is reaching that level in life where you have the time, energy and resources to pursue personal pursuits that give you true pleasure. It is being able to truly devote to your family or those close to you. It is never having to say “maybe next year”. It is knowing that every day you have done your perfect best and if you were to die tomorrow, you would leave without regret. Yes it is about accumulating resources, but for and with a purpose – to pay your bills with some left over to save, to indulge in your wants and share your success with others. That makes you feel good. That is authentic success.

Those who have reached a level of authentic success are focused, serene and in-control in their work. They are not frazzled or fragmented. Above all, it is knowing and accepting that the best you can do is all you can do and that the best is always enough. We are so often trying to just beat someone else, to leg a leg up on a co-worker and always pushing, pushing and pushing. Don’t get me wrong – I am a true believer in pushing hard to achieve your goals and dreams --- but there is a point that one has to breath out and saw – well done Dan. Those who measure success materially usually don’t reach that plateau. Money breeds a need for more money; getting things means having to get more things. It is a vicious cycle.

Authentic success is also knowing that you have contributed in some way – to a person in need, an organization in need or lifted the spirit of a person through your words, smile or touch. I think one statement can sum it up: Achieving authentic success is reaching that defining point in life that being is as important as doing and pursing a dream is your every day activity and counting how abundant you life is today. It is not being ruled by fear.

Why is this important for matters of career? Too many chase the carrot without looking at an opportunity – or changing their situation – to reach a real level of success – authentic success. The money matters more, the prestige rules, the stress continues and the heart and mind never rest. Plan your moves to achieve success – the success that really make a difference.

Your viewpoint on life will change. You will be abundant. You will live each day and not just survive.

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
Office: 518-261-4212
Cell: 518-641-8968
eFax: 586-279-4212
dmoran@next-act.com

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Job Market report - September 16, 2010

This week's report -- and the news is not good, Big drop in job postings which will lead to a more competitive market with fewer jobs ...
___________________________________________

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

Albany, NY, September 15, 2010

Job Postings Drop 12% Last Seven Days on Top of 20% Drop Prior Seven Days

(Albany, NY, September 15, 2010) – Job postings in the Capital Region continued to slide lower this past seven days, falling 12%. This is on the heels of a 20% drop the week prior. Postings came in at just over 4400, down significantly from the 6000-7000 levels reported during the Spring of this year.

“This drop is very concerning as the downward slide appears to be continuing. We do expect some drop off around Labor Day, but the bounce back is usually quick; we haven’t see it this year signaling that the job market has become much tighter for the Fall, historically a prime hiring season. Of course this is not good news for job seekers”, 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 added that markets across New York State saw increases in job postings while the Capital Region saw a decrease. “It appears that, after a downward slide around the holiday, the level of job posting activity in other NYS markets returned to pre-holiday levels – plus some. The Metro NYC area saw a significant increase both within the city as well as in the surrounding market.”

Moran offered his advice to job seekers, “Yes, the market is tighter for sure but still significantly better than last year at this time when job postings were around 3100. Those looking for a job should be prepared to see more completion so it is imperative to be well prepared, ready to sell your skills and make a dynamic first impression.”

# 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

Monday, September 13, 2010

It’s not just getting a job – but keeping it too!

“Our attitude toward life determines life's attitude towards us.” – John N. Mitchell

I was rather shocked to say the least.

For the past five months, in conjunction with the Capital Region Human Resource Association (www.crhra.org) and WRGB CBS6 (www.wrgb.com) I have been conducting a monthly Employment Index survey of close to 150 local companies to measure hiring plans, last month’s activity etc.

Each month we pose a Question of the Month. This month’s question was this: Given the number of job candidates in the market not, have you, will you or are you considering replacing a current employee with someone in the market to save money, attract a skill or improve performance.

I knew the answer would be yes in many cases. I didn’t expect close to 50% said they would. Goes to show one – if you have a job, you need to work hard to keep it! There is someone out there willing and likely able to do what you do.
Given the high percentage, WRBG asked for an interview and to share some tips on how to keep your job in a competitive market. If you would like to see the interview and tips: http://www.cbs6albany.com/video/?videoId=605565894001&lineupId=1143371293
So what does this mean to you?

You need to work to keep your job and perhaps change your approach to your employer and co- workers. Three words:

Value
• Attitude
• Expectations


Value – What you did for your employer a year ago, a month ago or a week ago is history. It is what you do today and everyday to add value to yourself and your employer that counts. Perhaps going the extra step to take on a challenge others have shunned or taking on a new responsibility – find something you can do and let others know you are doing it. Yes that is self-promotion – but required.

Attitude – It doesn’t matter if you are the best at doing your job if you have a crappy and bad attitude, you will get chopped. People want to work with people that like. Few want to work with someone who has a bad attitude, dumps on co-workers or the company is just complains. If this is you, time for an attitude check – or time to move on.

Expectations – I remember so well just a few weeks ago someone in my office telling me they never expected to be fired – and it occurred because they did not know what was expected of them. This is a bad for both employee and employer – no one made the effort to find out what was expected of each other. Talk to your boss – be sure you clearly understand what is expected of you and how you will be measured. As Peter Drucker said: You cannot manage what you cannot measure.

BTW, if you would like to see the Employment Index Report for the period of 7/15 to 8/15, click here: http://www.cbs6albany.com/video/?videoId=605565819001&lineupId=1143371293. Fewer employers are planning to hire, but there are new jobs being created in the market – that is good!

I hope this is helpful, and thank you for reading this. - Dan

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Job Market report 9/8/10: Big drop in job posting activity ...

Hope you find these reports helpful ...

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

Albany, NY, September 8, 2010

Job Postings Drop 20% Last Seven Days

(Albany, NY, September 8, 2010) – On the heels of the long Labor Day holiday, job postings in the Capital Region fell 20% from last week, showing a continual slide and big drop. “We usually see a slide after a major holiday and it is normally in the 7-10% range. This drop was significant. Other markets in New York State saw similar drops in the number of job postings”, 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.

Job postings for the seven day period averaged 5050, down from 5550 the previous seven days, down from the 6500 to 7000 which were being reported this Spring in the Region. “I can hope this is partly the effect of the holiday and if so, we should see come resurgence later this week”, continued Moran.

# 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, September 7, 2010

The Exodus begins …

Continuity gives us roots; change gives us branches, letting us stretch and grow and reach new heights. ~Pauline R. Kezer

A recent report in the Memphis Business Journal on a nationwide survey (http://memphis.bizjournals.com/memphis/stories/2010/08/16/daily6.html) reported that 40% of professionals want to quit their job and are planning to begin to change jobs after Labor Day – 40%! That is one of the highest numbers I have ever seen in my 22-years in this business.

So what does that mean to you?

Take a hint. It may be time for you too to move on if you have survived the layoffs, cut wages, changed work culture or other factors tht just don’t make your work – or employer – fulfilling any longer.
So as we celebrate Labor Day, I repeat the signs that it is time to move on in your career. Enjoy Labor Day – and then get ready to get back to a new, fresh season! Think about these situations, and if one is you, time to move on!
_____________________________________________

Know the difference: Bad Day/Week/Month or Really Time to Move On
We all have had a bad day, week or even a month in our job or business. It happens. It is important to evaluate any situation and carefully answer this question: Is this ongoing or just situational - driven by an internal business condition that will change? If the answer is yes it is situational, deal with that first. If it appears to be systemic (in the "grain" of the organization and not likely to change) or if you cannot answer the question, then it is likely time to move on.

Have you lost that "loving feeling" or Passion? Maybe Bored? Move On …
This is very common and a clear sign to move on. You enter the job or business full of enthusiasm and vigor, and it wears off. You are not challenged, you lose interest or you don't see growth, challenge, etc. It's not that there is anything wrong with you or the company, you have just outgrown each other; it is time to move on.

If your job affects your life -- health, family, relationships --- Move on
Job stress can kill you (take it from an "expert"). It can affect your health in many ways including sleep, eating, clarity of thoughts, etc. Excessive job demands will affect your family and relationships, and when this becomes an issue, move on.

Changes don't fit you … Move on
Change helps grow businesses and at times, changes just don't fit everyone. If you feel that company changes are not right for you, and you see no light at the end of the tunnel, time to move on.

You are marginalized --- or work for boss you do not respect? … Move on
Everything is going great and then there is a new player or a new strategy that results in you being marginalized - not included in meetings, or not involved as you were before. You become disconnected. Top that with a new boss who you just don't click with and you know it is time to move on.

You are not growing … Move on
This is the number one reason why people leave jobs - no growth or learning opportunities. Some companies "get it" and provide this environment; others do not. The result - you find you're "stuck" --- not growing, not learning, and not advancing. Talk to your management team and if there is no positive resolution, move on.
Change is good for all. When you are disconnected from your job, your performance suffers and that is not good for the company. It's best for both that you move on --- with a great experience under your belt and with a new set of skills and friends.

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Job Market report - 9/2/2010

This week's job market report - enjoy Labor Day!
_________________________________________________________
For Immediate Release
For Information, Dan Moran 518-641-8968

Albany, NY, September 1, 2010

Job Postings Flat Past Week – up 45% over last year…

(Albany, NY, September 1, 2010) – Job postings in the Capital Region remained flat this week at just about 5550, the same as the previous seven days indicating little activity change among employers, a trend that has been seen for a number of weeks. “The market has either been up so slightly or down the past few weeks indicating a softening in hiring activity in a time when we would expect to see just the opposite”, 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. “While down, the number of job postings is still much better than last year when at this time we saw just over 3660 job postings”.

For the past few weeks, Moran has been expressing caution over the job market numbers. “After a strong Spring, we have seen a lackluster Summer which is concerning as we look to the Fall, a traditionally strong hiring season. As I expressed last week, The real indicator will be the first few weeks following the Labor Day holiday when hiring and job posting activity has been historically brisk”, continued Moran.

# 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