Thursday, December 29, 2011

Job Market Report 12/28/11 - Plus a tip for you ...

Good bye 2011 - and on to 2012 with hopefully better job results in the region!
_______________________________________________________________________________

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
December 28, 2011

Job Postings in Region Drop During Holiday Week as Expected … What should Job Seekers do? -

(Albany, NY, December 28, 2011) – Job postings in the Region slumped considerably this past week given the downturn of business activity associated with the holiday period. Postings came in at just over 1850 – a new low for the year – but no unexpected. “We see this every holiday week at the end of the year as business activity is way below normal and people take time off as well. As a result there is little new jobs posted for the period and it will not pick up again, if history proves right, until after the 1st week in January”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie.

Similar results were posted in other NYS market. The Albany Region continues to outpace Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse, which are larger markets, with more job opportunities.

Next-Act’s Tip of the Week to Job Seekers

So what does one do this week and next when activity will likely be low? “Focus on finding out once and for all what you really want to do in your career. Many simply continue to look for the same type of job over and over again, when they really do not enjoy what they do. Take this down time to reflect and consider – what do I really want to do in my career that will make me happy, fulfilled and productive. Being in the wrong job or career I like trying to dance with shoes that do not fit – you may look good, but you are hurting. 80% of your waking life is focused on working or thinking about it – should you not enjoy that time?”, continued Moran.

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. In 2012, his firm will celebrate 24 years in business. 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

Saturday, December 24, 2011

Give a gift – the gift of The Positive …

“Once you replace negative thoughts with positive ones, you’ll start having positive results.” – Willie Nelson

It is Christmas morning perhaps when you are reading this – or sometime thereafter. I thought I would repeat a blog I wrote last year around the holidays that generated a number of emails and phone calls. The blog challenged each and all to find their way through the “noise” we live in at this time of the year, and find and accept the gift of The Positive.

Our best wishes to you and yours this holiday season as we close out the year. Up next – a great 2012!

I hope you enjoy – Dan
_____________________________________________________________________________________

One of the greatest gifts you can give is The Positive. The state of mind and being that many long for, but sometimes do not get. The aura that others see and admire when around The Positive.

So just what is The Positive …

It is an acceptance and commitment in life to look at the positive side, to accept the good in others and to put aside mind-sucking thoughts of negativity. It is then living a positive life – and demonstrating this to others.

In short, it is, for some, a new behavior. It is taking the difficulties once might be having on-the-job or looking for a job and focusing on the small “wins” – the interview, finding a job that might be good for you, or handling something at work that you knew you did well. It might be a thank you from someone or a smile from a patient or their family. Small but important in life.

It is the way you go about your life and the connections you make. It isn’t just you being positive – it is a gift to show others that anxiety has no place in celebration and really, no value.

We are bombarded with negative messages each and every day – in broadcast, online, from others around us and sometimes from ourselves. It is hard to escape from. It can be easy to accept negativity – and look at life and situations as half-empty vs. half-full at times. For many, while it is difficult to understand, it is the “easy” way in life.

To be in The Positive you must accept a new behavior and vow to practice it – everyday and consistently. It is framing your mind through affirmations, reading, being around those of like mind and letting go of the small stuff:

* Rather than focus on why your family guest was late for a holiday celebration, embrace that they are there and enjoy their company.
* When looking back on the year, why focus on the jobs you didn’t qualify for – rather focus on those you know will come in the very near future and visualize your success. Focusing on history is a total waste of mind matter – you can’t change history so why try!
* Don’t think about the connections you haven’t heard from – take steps to make connections. Use social networking tools or the tried-and-true note or card in the mail.

How do you begin to change your behavior and accept The Positive? …

It is like learning a new language – you have to practice – practice – practice Maybe start by reading and experiencing the changes others have made or experienced — perhaps it will “rub” off. Some recommended reading (and these would be great gifts too) from my “source” – my wife Vikki, the most positive person I have ever met:

* The Alchemist, Paulo Coelho, Harper One, Division of HarperCollins Publishers (www.amazon.com/Alchemist-Fable-About-Following-Dream/dp/0062502182)
* There is a Spiritual Solution to Every Problem, Wayne W. Dyer, HarperCollins Publishers www.amazon.com/Theres-Spiritual-Solution-Every-Problem/dp/0060192305
* Earth’s Elders: Wisdom of the World’s Oldest People, Jerry Friedman, www.earthselders.org

Please note: These are not how-to or get-your-head-on-straight books – these are stories of others who have learned from others, experienced life-change and demonstrate the power of being positive. If you feel you need to visualize the power of positive thoughts and messaging, consider The Secret, Rhonda Bryne, www.thesecret.tv — a bit more spiritual in nature, but a mind-opener. If you want to give the gift of positive thinking and time’s running out, you will find most of these at a local bookseller.

When you accept and adopt the behavior, your world changes. Your outlook is brighter. You feel better – and think clearer.

In whatever manner you celebrate this festive season , my greetings to you and your family.

And thank you for reading this — Dan

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Job Market Report 12/21/11

To you and yours - a safe and enjoyable holiday - and some good news here!
__________________________________________________________________________________

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
December 21, 2011

Job Postings in Region Continue to Remain Steady -

(Albany, NY, December 21, 2011) – Job postings in the Region continued to remain steady, when normally they would drop given the upcoming holiday. “Postings remained approximately 2600 – the same as last week – in a time when job postings usually drop sharply which is good news to those in the job market”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie.

Job opportunities usually get much weaker the week before and right after a major holiday period. Postings are down significantly from one year ago but have been holding steady showing consistency. “To date, 2010 was a much stronger year than 2011. We have slid back to 2009 levels and can’t seem to get out of that trend. However, polls are showing that the early part of 2012 may be stronger in our region than forecasted for the nation”, continued Moran.

Dropping Unemployment Rate a Good Sign as Well

The unemployment rate in our Region again dropped for the fourth month in a role signaling a steadily but slowly improving job market. “In the Capital Region, private sector employers have been consistently adding jobs which is excellent., However, the gains have been offset by decreases in public sector employment as municipalities and government in general deals with shrinking fiscal resources and this will likely continue”, stated Moran.

“Some surveys are showing that the first quarter of 2012 may be better than expected and certainly better than this year. For those in the job market or contemplating looking for a new job, the key work is preparation – preparation now to be ready to take advantage of improving market conditions. It will be difficult to connect to people over the next week so use this time to gear up”.

In other NYS markets, postings were down. Our Region continues to outpace other NYS markets, with the exception of metro NYC, and our Region is much smaller.

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. In 2012, his firm will celebrate 24 years in business. 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

Sunday, December 18, 2011

"Life is never made unbearable by circumstances, but only by lack of meaning and purpose." - Viktor Frankl

Everyone on earth has a purpose - a purpose you must understand to reach your potential. Everyone has passion too - passion for what they do and what they want to be.

A simple formula: (Purpose + Passion) = Performance.

Not knowing what your purpose & passion is leads to aimlessly walking through life & career - taking the wrong job for the wrong reason (likely money, ego), not fulfilling your inner dreams, not truly doing what you are passionate about, but rather doing the "comfortable" and "easy" thing.

However when you discover your true and intended purpose & passion - the world opens up. When you make this discovery, you are rocket-ship-forward - reaching your peak performance - which leads to satisfaction in all aspects of life.

Julia Child fumbled about for sometime before finding her purpose and passion in life - and she didn't find it until well into her 40's and she is one of many famous examples. Andrea Bocelli, Tenor, went to university and graduated from law school before he discovered and applied his beautiful voice later in life.

I worked with a client recently who was clearly caught up in the "money chase" - didn't matter what he did, as long as he made gobs of money. Truth of the matter - he was miserable, and it was affecting his family. He hadn’t yet discovered his purpose. He wasn't focused on doing what he was truly passionate about. Through a process I have used successfully for years, he "got" the answers – he discovered his passions and then felt he had true purpose. His life changed in positive ways and he reconnected with his family which was so important but often neglected.

You too may be in the same place.


• In a job that isn't giving back to you in more ways than money?
• In a life situation that isn't aligned with who you are, and who you want to be?

In one big word – you are disconnected.

Recall the moment in work or in a life situation when you were in your groove/zone, had your mojo. The time(s) when you were rocket-ship-ahead. What were you doing? Try to recall the circumstances. The answer should help you better your purpose & passion.

Still stuck?

Time to take control of your situation. Without an understanding of your purpose & passion in life, you cannot launch. Assessments can help; discussion with a professional always helps. Talk to your spouse or significant other. Talk to someone who knows you very well and can be brutally honest in their opinion. Visualize how you will feel and act - pursing your true purpose and passion.

Commit to be happy. Commit to having purpose. Follow your passions and you will succeed like never before.

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

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Job Market Report 12 14 11

Still holding steady which is good for this time of the year
_______________________________________________________________________

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
December 14, 2011

Job Postings in Region Remain Steady -

(Albany, NY, December 14, 2011) – Job postings in the Region remained steady, further evidence that holiday hiring continues at this late date. History shows a normal drop this week; it did not happen this year. “ The holiday hiring spurt appears to have been delayed for a few weeks but is continuing well into the holiday season which is good news for those seeking to secure a holiday job into January, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie.

Similar results were posted in other NYS markets. Our region continues to outpace other NYS markets, with the exception of metro NYC, and our Region is much smaller.

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

Sunday, December 11, 2011

It isn’t just fit to the job – but to the culture as well …

Take control of your consistent emotions and begin to consciously and deliberately reshape your daily experience of life.
Tony Robbins


You often hear people talk about finding the right fit to a job and how critically important this is. At times, people find themselves in jobs that just do not align to their personality, interests, temperament – and the results are usually poor and sadly predicable. They end of leaving the job or the company asks them to leave the job. Normally not a pleasant experience.

That is why career consultants inform – no preach – to those who will listen that you need to be certain of your fit to a job or career before jumping in. At times the grass seems greener on the “other” side – but it may not be if the role isn’t right for one. Assuring that you fit to a job or career brings satisfaction on all levels of life as your job – where you spend 80% of your waking time working at or thinking about – can often define your level of life satisfaction and happiness.

But it goes beyond fit to the job … Fit to culture is as well critical

Finding the right fit to a job or career is critical as I have said. As critical in many cases, is finding the right fit to the culture of your employer or prospective employer. I have met so many people who loved what they do every day and are happy and connected in their career, but disconnected from the culture of the organization they work for.

Defining Company Culture

There are several descriptions but I feel this one sums it up:

A blend of the values, beliefs, taboos, symbols, rituals and myths all companies develop over time.
(www.entrapreneur.com)

Culture is, as you can see, an interesting mix of factors – some real; others perceived. The best way to evaluate the culture of the company – the real culture and not the one that is posted on the web site or in the mission statement - is to talk to employees, current and former. That is where you really learn how the company operates (values, beliefs, taboos, symbols, rituals) versus what is said on how they operate, treat employees and service the customer (the myths). Of course, you need to temper what you learn – the person conveying the info to you may be tainted or have an agenda but nevertheless, you will learn.

It is also important to know thyself – and understand the culture that you best work in as well as the constructs of a job that fits your cultural needs in order to be truly successful.

So you love your job – but not your company?

Very common. Some find themselves in a situation where they just love the job they do, but they don’t have the same feeling for the organization they work for. Perhaps they did at one time, but then the company changed. This is so true after new management or after mergers & acquisitions. When faced with this the decision is usually clear – time to move on and do what you love to do in another organization. It is sad yes and difficult, but the right thing for you to do for yourself and the company. If you are not engaged with the company, your commitment and performance will eventually suffer, and that hurts all.

Taking control is the most important step

You cannot move forward, grow, prosper or get yourself into a better situation if you do not take control and be personally responsible for your own career. Your employer isn’t going to manage your career for you – you must. One step – pledge to make 2012 the year you put yourself in the driver seat of your career and navigate your own way.

Only you can define your own destiny. Only you control how high you grow. 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, December 8, 2011

Job Report December 6 2011

A bit better - good holiday hiring seen!
_____________________________________________________________________

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
December 6, 2011

Job Postings in Region Increase – Stronger Holiday Season ahead

(Albany, NY, December 6, 2011) – Job postings in the region increased a few hundred, a welcome sign that holiday hiring has kicked in and employers are seeking some glimmers of hope in a difficult and concerning economy. Postings were up to 2650, up 5% over the previous week, a holiday week, when little improvement was expected. “ This is welcomed news as it appears that holiday hiring – which many people count upon – is finally occurring – if not rather late - and this is positive for those in the job market today”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie.

Similar results were posted in other NYS markets. Our region continues to outpace other NYS markets, with the exception of metro NYC, and our Region is much smaller. Postings in the Buffalo – Rochester- Syracuse are were just over 2200 again this week.

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

Sunday, December 4, 2011

Holiday Job Search: Jobs don’t go away – job seekers do.

"Magic is believing in yourself, if you can do that, you can make anything happen." Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

It is here - the "official" holiday season. . The time of the year when parties abound, there are presents to buy and the time of the year when no one finds a job – an often repeated mantra or myth.

Wrong!

I wrote about this a few years back and after listening to people over the past week or so, think it is time to revisit this again.

Diffusing the Myth


The true fact is this: Companies continue to hire during the holiday season but job hunters quit looking. As a recruiter and corporate human resources executive job openings continue during December just when many job seekers put their resume on the shelf for the holiday season. There is no statistical proof that there are fewer new job openings in the month of December versus other time of the year. In fact, many say it is just the opposite. Hiring isn’t driven by a calendar, it is driven by need.
Many companies want to tie up loose ends – and that means hiring
In many companies, hiring actually heats up in December as managers and business owners have money left in their budgets and want to spend their budget rather than potentially losing it. Still others want to tie up loose ends before the end of the year – and this includes filling open positions.
Many are also surprised to learn that the holiday season is also a popular time for people to give their notice and move on, to get a fresh start in a new job for the New Year. The result – more job opportunities for others.

Six Tips for Your Holiday Job Search


So, before you buy into the myth, put your resume on the shelf and don your dancing shoes, consider the following actions:
• Use holiday events as networking opportunities – Every event, party, children’s school function, gathering etc. is an opportunity for you to network, make a new contact. During the holidays there are generally more events – and more opportunities!
• Volunteer and make new contacts – Get involved with a charity or group during the holiday season. Often the pillars of the community either attend or help at these events and for you, which means an opportunity to make great contacts – and give back to the community at the same time.
• Rather than holding back on search activities – heat up your actions – While I hope I have enlightened you to keep the search activities going, others still won’t and there will be less competition and fewer candidates giving you a better competitive opportunity.
• Close down loose ends – contacts, follow-ups, applications – What better time of the year to close down your “to do” list of contacts and follow-ups and tie up you own loose ends.
• Make yourself flexible & available and keep in contact – What is miserably frustrating to a recruiter is the inability to get in touch with potential candidates who “check-out” during holiday weeks. They just don’t check their email and messages go unreturned. Stay connected!
• Set goals – celebrate wins – visualize success - You may have heard the expression “You cannot manage what you cannot manage”. In career & job search, it is critical that you set goals, and set daily actions to achieve your goals, especially when outside factors – like holiday activities – can be distracting. I utilize the Get Hired NOW!methodology with my clients which focuses on goal setting, drives results through doing simple and planned actions everyday, and celebrates the achievement of goals. As an idea, set a goal for making X-number of networking contacts this holiday season --- and celebrate when you hit your goal!

Keep the pressure on and take advantage of less competition in the market as some will just not take advice and hang it up for the season.

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

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Job Market Report November 30 2011

The effects of the holiday hangover - market down, not unexpected ...
_____________________________________________________________________

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
November 30, 2011

Job Postings in Region Drop Significantly on Heels of Holiday

(Albany, NY, November 30, 2011) – Job postings in the region dropped significantly from 3880 to just over 2500 on the heels of the long Thanksgiving holiday, which was expected. However, analyst caution that the overall number is well below 2010. “The market dropped this past seven days as we have seen in the history and this was expected. However, the region’s job postings are hitting some all time lows, which is concerning. There appears to be a malaise in the market – employers are just holding back on hiring looking for some sign of improvement” stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie.

“For job seekers, not great news but if history proves right, the market will be stronger next week – so keep your efforts strong. Do not get caught up in the holiday myth – jobs do not go away during the holiday period – jobs are fueled by demand so keep your efforts strong”.

Similar results were posted in other NYS markets. Our region continues to outpace other NYS markets, with the exception of metro NYC, and our Region is much smaller. Postings in the Buffalo – Rochester- Syracuse are were just over 2000 again this week.

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

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Give thanks and be grateful ...

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” – John F. Kennedy, 35th President of the United States

As we end the Thanksgiving weekend, one which I hope was enjoyable for you. It is important to look back and think for moment.

Life is hectic. The demands of one’s job, life and all that revolves around us can be a whirlwind at times. And at times, very nerve wracking and unsettling.

That is why, at this time of the year, one just needs to stop dead in your tracks – pause, reflect, give thanks and be grateful for what you have and who you know. It is important, and gives a new and fresh perspective.

Perhaps it is the boss you have that you like – sometimes and not others. The special group of co-workers you spend your day with. Your friends and business associates. Great clients. The folks who work in your favorite stores. Your doctor and the medical professionals who work to keep you healthy. The list can go one.

A few ideas:

• Remember that mentor – the person you go to for advice and feedback with a phone call or personal visit just to say thanks.

• Think about the special person who helped you solve a problem at work or at home. Maybe it was advice they gave; maybe an action of some type. It happened in the past – bring it to the present by acknowledging and showing your gratitude.

• Give back to your network of contacts – reach out, say thanks and ask how you can help them. In Harvey Mackay’s book, Dig Your Well Before You Are Thirsty (http://store.harveymackay.com/product_p/48543-3.htm), a highly recommended book on networking, he makes a very strong point: don’t just take from your network of contacts, always see how you can help them and then do so.

• In the hectic world of healthcare, where there never seems to be a break, think about those who help you give care to a patient or attend to a families need. The ones that perhaps are not recognized, or work in the shadows so to speak – but are still ever so important. Perhaps it is the contact who is helping you along in your healthcare career.

Giving thanks and showing your gratitude will bring rewards back to you as well. You will be remembered and thought of when a new opportunity opens up for a job or in business, community or socially. And – you will feel good too.

That feel good feeling is truly motivating and will take you to new heights.

And thank you for reading this. - Dan

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Job Market Update 11 23 11 - Some good news

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
November 23, 2011

Job Postings in Region Continue Little Growth … Good Unemployment News

(Albany, NY, November 23, 2011) – Job postings in the region were up 100 over the previous week, indicating that the market is flat yet again. Postings came in at 3880, up about 100 from the previous week but below the baseline of 4000 postings which we would normally expect to see at a minimum. “Last year, at this time, postings were up to 5300; the market continues to be flat in 2011 and the trend is continuing. While this is not good news, those in the job market need to continue to be aggressive in searching as there are many very good opportunities today, and employers will continue to hire right through the holiday season. The myth has been that hiring stops during the holidays; there is no truth or study supporting this. In fact, company recruiters complain that job seekers don’t respond to opportunities during this hiring time. So – don’t put your resume on the shelf – keep looking and use the holidays to network more”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie.

“There is some good news as well. The unemployment rate in the Region has dropped yet again. This means the competition for jobs will be less for those in the market”. The unemployment rate in the region is now 6.5%, well under the NYS and national average. “We just need consistent hiring activity in the private sector at a higher clip to turn this around”, continued Moran.

Similar results were posted in other NYS markets. Our region continues to outpace other NYS markets, with the exception of metro NYC, and our Region is much smaller. Postings in the Buffalo – Rochester- Syracuse are were just over 2000.
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

Sunday, November 20, 2011

There is a fine line between dreams and reality, it's up to you to draw it. ~B. Quilliam

As you likely know if you have read my writings for a period of time, I am all about doing what you love – what drives your passion – in your career and life for that matter. Those engaged in work or life situation where they are fulfilled, motivated and enjoy, prosper, grow and lead happier lives.

But there is another element to consider – reality.

I was just reading about one of the Occupiers in NYC who had a good job teaching in the NYC school system but felt unfulfilled. He quit his job and embarked to complete his Master’s degree in Puppetry (the art – not the new technology). Obviously he enjoyed this. The reality was that now over a year later hounded by school loans he could not find a job in his chosen field.

I did a scan of the national job market. With over 4 million job postings, there were two that were looking for those with experience and interest in the field of puppetry. Only two – not very promising for sure. A sure case for doing a reality check before launching in a new direction.

One of the critical processes I bring my clients through is the reality check. We could identify a direction that in no way would be feasible from an economic, market or other perspective. It can be a damper but critical to know. This gentleman in this article likely didn’t do that and he will need to, in his mind, “settle” in his next job.

So – what do you do when facing seeking a new direction?

Be sure you do a reality check. Analyze and determine:

… What is the current job market for a person seeking this career direction?
… What are the future prospects for the chosen field?
… What technology or other advances may change the market opportunities in the future?
… What skill set will this career demand in the future that I will need to invest in?

You may not like the answers, but the answers will be your reality check and this is very important. Occupations and industries are changing and will continue to change. Remember the Travel Agent – the Typewriter Repairperson - The Stenographer? All fell and continue to fall victim to a changing market and technology.

Do what you love yes – but be sure there is enough “love” to make it viable. Put the odds in your favor. And thank you for reading this. – Dan

PS: May you and your family have a peaceful and restful Thanksgiving.

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, November 16, 2011

Job Market Report 11 16 11

Market still flat - but good opportunities out there!
___________________________________________________________

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
November 15, 2011

Job Postings in Region Again Flat when Numbers Should Be Increasing

(Albany, NY, November 15, 2011) – Job postings in the region remained flat, coming in at just over 3750, below the expected baseline of 4000 to 4900 and again signaling a flat job market which has been the case for several weeks. “We expected to see an uptick based on history, but that hasn’t occurred, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie.

Similar results were posted in other NYS markets, singling that this isn’t just a Regional issue. “The is occurring nationally as well”, continued Moran. “We will need to see what occurs this coming week with the impending holiday which usually leads to a drop in job activity”.

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

Sunday, November 13, 2011

The only way to control your destiny – be in for yourself …

"Always bear in mind that your own resolution to success is more important than any other one thing." --Abraham Lincoln


Working for the man? Fed up with your boss? Just had it with the work rat race?
Fire Yourself – and be in business for your self – a little bit at a time.

Huh? Yes, that’s the reaction of a group I spoke to recently when I brought this topic up. I got those looks like …
"… okay Moran, what do you mean a little bit at a time? Have you lost it...?"

No not really. There is a whole new movement in the marketplace today – a movement that is being fueled by individuals just saying to hell with traditional work. They want to be in their own business, but can’t jump in right away at 100%.

They are the new Employedpreneur: The ambitious professional who undertakes launching and running a business while working full-time.

Some may, in the past, called this moonlighting – but that often meant a second job – for the “man”. This is different. This is setting your sights on being in full control of your destiny, driving your income, controlling your fate and building your gifts and fortune for the future – but doing so little steps at a time. I am seeing this more and more in my practice and have advocated to many a client that this is their way to launch their own business or to test if their business idea or passion is economically viable.

Given the state of the economy and the anemic job market, self-employment is becoming an increasingly viable option for many. More businesses have been born in the midst of recessions than any other period. Think Microsoft, Starbucks, PetSmart - yes, all born in recessions. Also, the reality is that you don't need boatloads of money to invest in a business today - there are many opportunities that can be launched on very low budgets, if you are open-minded to new ideas.

Think of the possibilities:
• Like to cook and thinking about being a caterer? Rather than jump in with two feet and be all in – try catering a few holiday gatherings this year, see how you like it and see if you can make a go of it.
• Handy with a trade? Try a few projects (paid please) for others and gain, see if it “fits” you and if you can turn a profit.
• Like to write? Publish a blog – market it – and see how it is received and read in the market.http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

… and the list can go on and on.

There is even a web site dedicated to this new movement: .

But what does it take to be successful in your enterprise?
No matter what scale you are at, one must:

Listen to Advice
… Trust your instincts
… Have the ability and drive to take action
… Be willing to take risks – measured risks


The first step however – answer the big question: Is your own business right for you?
This is critical. Being in business for some is in perfect alignment to their personality and interests. For others, it is not a match. Get this answer first. If you can’t get the answer yourself, get professional assistance. I have used an assessment tool – the EA: Entrepreneurial Assessment – to help guide (or not) clients to their own business. There are other tools as well on the market; just be sure there is validity and experience to back them up.

Be in control. Drive your destiny. Break the shackles of traditional work and you will grow and prosper – and you will work hard!

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

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Job Market Report November 8 2011

Flat but not down!
_________________________________________

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
November 9, 2011

After slight uptick last week, job postings flat in the Region and Statewide

(Albany, NY, November 9, 2011) – After a slight uptick in activity, postings were flat this past seven days in the Region as well as the State. “The good news – we are not seeing the huge swings of a few weeks past – one week up, next week way down, so that is good. This could also be the leveling effect of holiday hiring which is forecasted to be up this season over last year”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie.

Postings came in at just about 3700, down minimally from the week before, less than 100 which indicates flatness. Other NYS markets posted similar results, with the exception of NYC which saw a healthy increase after dropping the prior two weeks.

Postings nationally were reported to be up in September. However, the Capital Region was generally down for the month compared to the prior few months, bucking the national trend. “Our Region normally is ahead of the national trend – our job opportunities usually increase before the nation; this time we have lagged a bit. Overall however, job opportunities nationally and Regionally are below 2010 levels and can be expected to continue that trend. The bright spots – high demand for talent in healthcare, sales, marketing, customer service/call centers and engineering”. Moran also suggested that job seekers should not get caught up in the numbers. “There are some very good jobs in the market and as of today, the market is less competitive as unemployment comes down – that is a bright spot”.

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

Job Market Report 11 18 2011

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
November 9, 2011

After slight uptick last week, job postings flat in the Region and Statewide

(Albany, NY, November 9, 2011) – After a slight uptick in activity, postings were flat this past seven days in the Region as well as the State. “The good news – we are not seeing the huge swings of a few weeks past – one week up, next week way down, so that is good. This could also be the leveling effect of holiday hiring which is forcasted to be up this season over last year”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie.

Postings came in at just about 3700, down minimally from the week before, less than 100 which indicates flatness. Other NYS markets posted similar results, with the exception of NYC which saw a healthy increase after dropping the prior two weeks.

Postings nationally were reported to be up in September. However, the Capital Region was generally down for the month compared to the prior few months, bucking the national trend. “Our Region normally is ahead of the national trend – our job opportunities usually increase before the nation; this time we have lagged a bit. Overall however, job opportunities nationally and Regionally are below 2010 levels and can be expected to continue that trend. The bright spots – high demand for talent in healthcare, sales, marketing, customer service/call centers and engineering”. Moran also suggested that job seekers should not get caught up in the numbers. “There are some very good jobs in the market and as of today, the market is less competitive as unemployment comes down – that is a bright spot”.

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

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Values - they are changing - for the good?

Personal leadership is the process of keeping your vision and values before you and aligning your life to be congruent with them. - Stephen Covey,

It is hard not to notice that our values have changed over the past few years or so. In many cases, what was important to those in career and life have changed - really changed - and what was important before isn't as important any longer.

Case in point. I meet with many clients who tell me that the values they seek to pursue in their next career or their life isn't what we generally have thought about in the past. In the past, it was all about the money, status and prestige as well as winning over others that drove career development and life choices.

That isn't the case today. People are thinking more about the real values that are important to them in their life and career, and turning back to those values that we learned from our elders. .

Value such as:
… community
… giving back to others
… helping others
… providing value in many a way
… being good to others - especially those in need
… protecting work-life balance
… being close to family

… all have taken the forefront.

Over the past few years, I believe --- and countless people tell me - that it isn’t all about the money. Yes - money plays a role, but it is less important. People are willing to sacrifice money for quality in their life and they are changing their lives to accommodate this.

Some have said that a good recession molds people.

And certainly this recession that we all went through ( and many think we are still in) has done the same. It has caused people to think what's really important in their or career in and what they want to get out life. People have new focus - new goals - and new direction. They are in more control - and that is good.

On the treadmill?

If you've been caught on the treadmill of chasing money, chasing fame and fortune in your career and life it's time to reflect and think about what's really important. If you can get off the treadmill and really figure what's important to you, you will be in a better place. If this resonates with you, I would like to offer a few tips you to consider:

Do a budget of budget - This will help you really know what you think you need to make in $$$ vs. reality. I do this often with clients and find that the delta - the difference between the need to make versus the want to make is around 15- 20% - lower. if you can think how to cut expenses and to trim those things just are not as important, maybe you'll find yourself able to take a job or at the minimum be open to more jobs that didn't have the compensation that you thought you needed. One client told me he would be able to save 3% of his paycheck by skipping Starbucks twice a day - that’s a win! He thought before he could not save anything. A bit of a sacrifice yes, but well work it (and likely better for his health too).


Evaluate your values - Understand your values and what your true purpose and calling in life is. This is absolutely critical as many people don’t know this answer and they go around rather lost and without purpose or direction. Sometimes it is not having the time to reflect; in other situations, it is the fear of making that discovery. If one has passion and purpose in life and career, they will feel stronger, more in control and focused in thinking forward and not looking behind. Having trouble figuring this out on your own? Get help for professional in defining your purpose in your passion; it will be eye-opening for sure and put you on a new path.


Be willing to accept the answers - This is most critical and I see it often times with clients who are afraid to admit the perhaps they were going in the wrong direction and they take some time to adjust and accept the fact that they need to redirect. Giving yourself permission to accept is actually critical. Once you do so, you free yourself from the past and, again, think forward.



If you are true to yourself, your family and to those things important to you, you will have passion and purpose and no one will stop you - no one will get in your way to trip you up; you just won’t let it happen!

And thank you for reading this … - Dan

Friday, November 4, 2011

Job Market Report 11/2/11

A bit better ---
____________________________

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
November 2, 2011

Job Postings Up Very Slightly – Reversing Recent Trends

(Albany, NY, November 2, 2011) – Job postings were up slightly to just about 3800, up from 3600 the week prior reversing a downward trend seen the past several weeks. “Has holiday hiring begun and affecting the local job market? It may be that holiday hiring has finally kicked in and retailers and other businesses are starting to staff up for the upcoming holiday season, which was expected to occur for the past few weeks, and that is good news in an otherwise down market”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie. “We have watched job opportunities diminish in the region and as of this week across the State as well; maybe we are seeing a turn for the better which would be a good sight for the market and certainly job seekers”.

Holiday hiring is expected to be up from last year based on information released to the market. Federal Express lone is looking to hire 20,000 seasonal workers, a full 20% more than last year. “This can be a great opportunity to get back into the market if unemployed”, Moran continued.

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

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Who should you blame for your career situation …. The answer is easy

“ Life is a series of near misses. But a lot of what we ascribe to luck is not luck at all. It's seizing the day and accepting responsibility for your future. ”

Howard Schultz (1953 – )
American entrepreneur, chairman of Starbucks


You.

Yup – you.

I often talk to people who tell me why their career or job situation has gone array. They blame just about everything:

… The economy
… The employer
… The lack of political leadership
… The weather
... and the list goes on and on.

We are seeing the level of discontent explode with the Occupy Wall Street movement spreading across the country and similar movements in Europe. The occupiers are demanding change in our banking system (one can agree or not agree) to reduce corporate greed, and yes there is greed. They are also demanding jobs.

On the flip side of this movement is another just developing – it is known as Occupy Yourself. The thought: demanding that the government or any other entity be responsible for finding one a job, creating jobs or changing one’s situation if the wrong approach. You are responsible for your situation – so occupy yourself and take responsibility. Most interesting for sure.

Those I talk to in my practice who blame everyone and everything for their situation are often shocked when I look straight into their eyes and tell them who takes responsibility for their situation, no matter what it is.

It is themselves. No one else.

We are each accountable for the actions we take and handling the situations we find ourselves in all facets of career and life. Sure external forces may make it more difficult, but at the end of the day, it is up to you to navigate your way in, out and around difficult situations. No one will do it for you. You will get old and gray waiting.

Unfortunately there is a prevailing attitude of entitlement or waiting for someone to change your situation for the better, and people just wait and wait with no resolve, no forward direction. They are, to a degree, enabled.

One of the best sayings I heard, from Jim Collin’s Book Good to Great (http://www.jimcollins.com/article_topics/articles/good-to-great.html) is the following: When something goes right in an organization, leaders look around them to heap praise upon someone for a job well done. When something goes wrong, they find the nearest mirror to find the person to blame. Leaders are accountable for the good and the bad; those destined for leadership in their career and life need to be able to do the same and know that they define their destiny, their ability to work through a situation and their prosperity. They are also 100% to blame when something goes wrong. It is easy to deflect that responsibility to someone else and yes they may have played a part, but it you and you alone so accept it sooner than later and move on.

If you have been faced with a defining moment in your life or career, and need to sort it out to move on, may I suggest:

• Grieve – yes give yourself the time – short time – to grieve the situation, then bury it and move on.
• Reflect – Understand what happened and why – and commit not to let this occur again in your future.
• Regroup – Most critical – move on and don’t remain in history – because you cannot change history.

Life throws curve balls and it has the past few years. Rather than watch the curve balls go by, tee one up and out of the stadium. That is winning. That is accountability. That is taking responsibility for your situation.

And thank you for reading this

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, October 27, 2011

Job Market Report October 27, 2011

I wish I had better news - we are in a malaise ...
____________________________________________________________________

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
October 26, 2011

Job Postings Down 9% Past Seven Days – Down 23% Since September 1st

(Albany, NY, October 26, 2011) – Job postings dropped again this week after a 10% drop the week before last and being flat the past week. Overall, since September 1st of this year, postings have dropped a sharp 23% during a period when there should be strength in hiring. “This is indeed concerning. The job market specifically in our region is lagging behind and dropping during a normally strong hiring period. Clearly employers in the area have put the brakes on hiring. At this time last year, there were just over 6000 jobs posted in the region; we are down significantly from this with just about 3600 job postings. The recovery we saw last year has clearly fizzled”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie. “The good news - while way under last year’s numbers, we are still above 2009 when we were deep in the recession “.

What does this mean to job seekers? “Those in the market need to just keep pushing harder for fewer jobs. The good news is that the market is less competitive than in recent past. However, one must be on their A-game and follow-up, network and network more. Just relying on posted job opportunities in the internet will not work”.

Job postings were up in all other NYS markets. “The situation appears to be regional in nature which is very surprising”. For the first time ever in reporting, Syracuse eclipsed Albany with more job opportunities, 3900 vs. 3600. “In the years I have been reporting this, never before has another NYS market, with the exception of NYC, posting more job opportunities than the Albany Region”, continued Moran.

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

Sunday, October 23, 2011

The Value – of being candid …

“All faults may be forgiven of him who has perfect candor.” – Walt Whitman

“I can’t believe you just said that” …

“I wish he/she would just say what is on their mind and not dance around it …”

“I know what he/she said – but do they mean it – really mean it …?”

I sure you have heard this many a time in your life – I most certainly have. We could all save time, break down barriers and get things done if people would just state what is on their mind, with tact and diplomacy. Candor is critical in business, career and life. Hiding behind crafted words that diffuse what you think or mean isn’t being honest – it isn’t being a leader.

The best leaders are candid – always. They say what needs to be said, and they do not mince words. They motivate by their directness and candor – and their team knows what is expected of them. Oftentimes those on the receiving end don’t like what they are saying – but they believe in their leader and know it is the truth.

When communication breaks down in a job, a company or a relationship once it is often the absence of candor caused by the fear of hurting someone and making them upset in some manner. Communicating without candor does just the opposite – it causes fear, lack of trust and is even more upsetting.

How you communicate in life and career is part of this …

A few tips:
• When faced with having to communicate difficult news – in business, to a loved one or a colleague, be candid, direct and to the point. Your position will be known, and from this point you may move forward.
• Not happy where you are in your career – be candid – with yourself and others – and start the move forward with no surprises.
• Is your mate not being candid – explain how this can hurt – ask for directness (resolves huge problems too!).
• Demand candor from others. Listen carefully to what people say and how they say it. Those who do not speak with candor or are mincing words show it in their voice and in their eyes. If faced with this, with tact and diplomacy, ask pointed questions – politely and always with a smile. The person will get the message – you can be sure.

You can never be faulted for being honest, and candor is the means to the end of better communication and success in career and life,

And thank you for reading this. - Dan

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Job Market Report, October 19, 2011

Still lackluster and flat --- but some good jobs in the market!
_____________________________________________________________________________

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
October 19, 2011

Job Postings Flat Past Seven Days after 10% Drop Week Before

(Albany, NY, October 19, 2011) – Job postings, a leading indicator of 30-45 day future hiring , were flat this past seven days coming in at just under 4000, definitely indicating a lackluster job market in the region during a period of normally strong activity. Last year at this time job postings were just over 5500, a drop of 27%. “Employers seem very reluctant to hire now and appear to be in a malaise – just hanging on with the staff they have until they see a positive sign like was seen in 2010 when it appeared there would be stronger and sustained growth, and that didn’t happen. While the number of posting are down, there are some very good job opportunities today so job seekers shouldn’t let the numbers hold them back. Opportunities are strong in healthcare, retail is returning stronger, sales & marketing as well as customer service continues to be strong”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie. “While way under last year’s numbers, we are still above 2009 when we were deep in the recession “.

Job postings were down in all other NYs markets as well. Albany is the smallest market in size when compared to the other markets outside of NYC and continues to outpace with more job postings. “For an area that is 25-35% smaller than other State markets (with the exception of NYC), we generally see postings in our region about 30-40% higher than Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse – although Syracuse has been much stringer as of late.


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

Sunday, October 16, 2011

The secret ---- the one element that defines success …

“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow”. – Albert Einstein

I meet with so many people each week from all walks of life and situations. Some are unemployed, others underemployed and the majority, seeking to improve their career and/or life situation. And I meet those as well that are struggling - mightily -- under this most difficult economy and job market that we are seeing right now. As a country, we appear to be in a malaise of sorts - there is a lame duck attitude that is prevailing in our government and that is affecting business, personal growth and success. It is so damaging as this attitude is holding people and companies back from growing, affecting our economy and then that affects jobs - a vicious cycle.

Many have asked me -- what is the secret that those who are successful in achieving their goals and dreams - a new job, career or situation in life? I have asked myself the same question. I know when the person across my desk, when asked what is the secret or success tool they have that keeps them going, they reach into themselves and pull it out and as their hands open up - it shines.

It is hope.

Those who are hopeful see promise and have a purpose in life, They who have hope look at situations differently from those who have sadly lost hope - they see the light, not the dark. And with hope, they move forward purposefully toward their goal, fueled by the power of hope. We have all seem despair and lack of hope - in our own area with the storms, and certainly in the media. Homes lost. Businesses washed away. Lives and livestock lost. That is despair.

But even in those situations, they have hope to keep them going. I talked with a gentlemen just this past Friday in our region who had lost all in the flood - he told me he will persevere, because he has hope, and I am sure he will.

If you are feeling hopeless in your career or life situation, may I suggest:

• Slow your mind down – One becomes overwhelmed with thoughts – good and more likely bad – and this “noise” clouds clear thinking.
• Set goals for yourself – There is a saying,” If you take your eye off the goals, all you see are obstacles”. So true – set goals – little ions that are attainable and celebrate when you achieve one and then move on.
• Be with those who will support you – not those who will drag you down – So important. Some people rather enjoy getting into the negative muck with someone and casting their sorrows and negativity upon someone else. Get away from these people in your life, align with those who know and understand you, and will support you.
• Do good for someone – In your toughest moments, find a way to help someone else in need. That glow you experience when you have done this will help. UI tell many who are in the pits of being unemployed to think not of themselves, but to think of others in need and help them through support or volunteering in the community.
• Seek help – If you feel that you are continuing to sink and cannot see your way out of this hopelessness, see professional help.

Hang on to the one secret to success - hope. Never let it go. Cherish it and nurture it. It is your key to your goals and dreams in all aspects of your life, career, relationships and more.

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

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Job Market Report 10 12 11

Market down this week - very anemic and rocky ...
___________________________________________________________________________________

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
October 12, 2011

Job Postings Drop Past Seven days – In Albany as well as across NYS

(Albany, NY, October 12, 2011) – Job postings, a leading indicator of 30-45 day future hiring , dropped just about 10% this pst week in the Albany region as well as in other New York State markets, continuing a lackluster fall hiring season during a period of normally strong hiring activity. “The market is flat – there are some very good jobs in the market but the numbers remain much lower that what the market needs to recoup from the recession. Job postings came in at just over 4000, compared to 5650 last year at this time – a big decline”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie.

“While down we are still much better than we were in 2009 in the depth of the recession when postings were under 3500 on a week-to-week basis, so there is a bright light. Employers appear to be stuck in an aura of uncertainty and when this happens, they usually curtail hiring activity until a picture is clearer – surely this is happening now as I have learned through discussions and surveys of employers”.

Albany is the smallest market in size when compared to the other markets outside of NYC and continues to outpace with more job postings.


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

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Early Bloomer – Late Bloomer –Boomer … It doesn’t really make a difference when – it is all about the if …

“As long as we are persistence in our pursuit of our deepest destiny, we will continue to grow. We cannot choose the day or time when we will fully bloom. It happens in its own time.” – Denis Waitley

I read a great article this past week which I have shared the link to. It is the story of a highly-successful New York woman who was at the top of her world – had it all, the material trappings, money and more – and it all came crashing down, no fault of her own. Gone was the job – her relationship – her material wealth.

What she determined to do was to bloom under a rather cloudy time in her life, and become a therapist. Chucked it all – put her “stuff” in storage, went home to her parents on the West Coast, enrolled in school and now is blooming in life with purpose and passion. As you will see, she takes offense in being called a “late bloomer” as her destiny was etched – she just had to discover it.

And it never would have happened if the sky didn’t - as it appeared to – fall in on her. She proved – you can bloom at any time in life – when you are 25 – 45 – 75 or 85 (if your health is with you). It just takes a push to a degree – or as I call it, a defining moment. Blooming in a newer term to the market to define taking a career and/or life situation that forces a change and determining to grow – or bloom from it.

Maybe every cloud does have a silver lining and the social, economic, political and what-ever-else-crisis we are living through today is, to a degree, forcing action and helping people realized underutilized potential they never knew they had. It is happening as their life and career changes and when change are forced upon them. This change forced upon many is not defined by age, gender, social class or other factors – it is touching all on an equal, non-discriminatory basis. The change can be motivating and forward-thinking – if you will accept it.

Are you an early bloomer – late bloomer – boomer bloomer – you name it? It doesn’t make a difference when – it is about the if you will allow yourself to bloom when the situation is presented.

Sound intriguing – how could it not! A few tips:

Keep an “idea” book handy always – Put it on the side of your bed, with you at work or other activity and as you think of an idea, do not commit it to memory – write it down. You memorialize the idea – and it is there for your recall (okay – let’s admit it too – some of us boomers have “memory deficiency” as I like to call it – others call it can’t remember crap).

Take your time – Many make snap and rush decisions when they are climbing and often times these decisions are hasty and poor. Don’t get caught up in a race with them – come from behind and nip them at the wire – on your own schedule, not the schedule of another.

Don’t be envious of other who appear to find their niche earlier in life – Understand that it sometimes takes longer and it is useless to compare yourself to others – that will get you nowhere, faster. Establish your pace to bloom – and stay at it; don’t let others push you forward if you are not ready. Then again – if you are stalled for perhaps no real reason – take the shove from someone else you respect – they are trying to help.

Trust in yourself – This is critical. You must state and believe – I know what I am doing is right – I know … and repeat it over and over again.

Read the article if you wish: http://thechart.blogs.cnn.com/2011/09/22/never-too-late-to-find-your-path-in-life/?iref=allsearch

And thank you for reading this – bloomer! - 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

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Job Market Report October 5 2011

Still sluggish - but better than other areas!
_________________________________________________________________________________

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
October 5, 2011

Job Postings Continue Flat – Effect of State Layoffs Appear to have an impact

(Albany, NY, October 5, 2011, 2011) – Job postings, a leading indicator of 30-45 day future hiring , continued to be flat this past week during a period when job postings are expected to, and have, grown over the past few years. Other markets in NYS followed suit with flat results. Postings came in at just about 4400, up 100 from the week before, a very slight change.

“The area was hit with good news and bad news in literally one day – with new Nanotech jobs coming and a threat of 3500 layoffs from the failed PEF State contract that will amount to 1250 layoffs in our Region as the pick slips are counted. Employers reacted as I thought they would – they put the brakes on hiring activity until this sorts out, consistent with past market performance. This comes on the heels of a rather anemic market so the one – two punch isn’t what we want to see right now when we need to see job growth in the region”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie.

While the news was a bit dim, Moran added, “We, as a region, are doing much better than other parts of the State and most certainly the country. We have been the shining star but we are now feeling the effects of a slower recovering economy. Our unemployment rate is well under the State and national average and that is good. Job seekers need to put the number behind then and keep pushing – while fewer, there are some great jobs in the market right today”.

Albany is the smallest market in size when compared to the other markets outside of NYC and continues to outpace with more job postings.


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

Sunday, October 2, 2011

You can’t go forward looking at your behind ...

“ When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us. ”

Helen Keller (1880–1968)
American humanitarian
Advocate for the deaf and blind

Helen Keller says it well. Many people who are destined for greatness and success never get through the open door because they are continually looking back, revisiting history, wondering if “it” will happen again.

As a result, they go nowhere. They are paralyzed. They are controlled by others and their past. In life and in career – on all levels – that effectively halts growth and achievement, and we see it so often.

There are life defining moments that are difficult to shake off and eat at one’s core. They are ones that we never forget – the loss of a loved one, a relationship gone bad, a job that disappears – your choice or not. They are tough ones to shake, but they too become history and need to be looked at as life experiences to learn from and move on from.

So often I meet individuals who have lost their job – they quit, company closed or they were fired for some reason. Their core is certainly shaken in a significant way. And at times, fear sets in – what happen if this occurs again? It may – and one needs to be resilient, shake it off, and go through the next open door. In Harvey MacKay’s book Fired Up! (http://www.harveymackay.com/books), he recounts the experiences of high-achievers who achieved success who once faced the ax and lost their job – they were fired, replaced, didn’t leave on their own term – but they dusted off and grew. A partial list:

Larry King, Joachim de Posada, Mark Victor Hansen, Muhammad Ali, Robert Redford, Lee Iacocca, Michael Bloomberg, Billie Jean King, Larry King, Lou Holtz, Walt Disney

They didn’t look back at that closed door – they went for the next open door and grew, succeeded and prospered.

Are you or have you been faced with one of “these moments” that have been difficult to shake?

A few suggestions:

• Grieve – yes grieve. You deserve it and it will help as long as you make grieving time short and with an end in mind. This is critical. There is a point – a critical point – where grieving ends and opportunity starts.

• Seek support – be with others and do not hide or squirrel away in “shame”. Connect with friends, family and your network. Be open and honest about what occurred as make these connections part of your support team – and they will support you (if one does not, leave them in your dust!).

• Journal your experience – identify what went wrong, when and with you and write this down to revisit in the future when in a difficult situation perhaps happens again. You will have a roadmap based on experience to draw from, and it may be helpful.

• Think opportunity. I hear so often – “I was paralyzed at first but as I look back it was the best thing that happened to me”. How true, a closed door may be just what one needs to move forward – and go through the next open door of opportunity.

As I have said over and over – you cannot change history. Don’t try -- you will die trying. Move on. Grow. Prosper. Be one of greatness in whatever manner you measure that. And keep Helen Keller in your mind …

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 29, 2011

Job Market Report 9/28/11

Flat - at least not down!!!!
___________________________________________________________________

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
September 28, 2011

Job Postings Flat – Effect of State Layoffs Loom

(Albany, NY, September 28, 2011) – Job postings, a leading indicator of 30-45 day future hiring , were flat this past week in the Region after a slight increase the week before. Other markets in NYS except Albany were up this week. Postings came in at just over 4300, up from 4280 the week prior.

“The compounded effect of the Governor’s announcement of new nanotech jobs to the Region and the PEF down vote of the State contract all happened within a few hours and we have not seen the effect on the local numbers but we will see shortly as this all shakes out. The Region’s postings have been somewhat anemic in the recent past and the up and down news will likely result in a cooling of local hiring as the market tends to react in that manner if history is any indicator, “stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie.

Job postings were up slightly in other NYS markets. Albany is the smallest market in size when compared to the other markets outside of NYC and continues to outpace with more job postings.


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

Sunday, September 25, 2011

Focus on what you can control – and not what you cannot ...

“It makes no sense to worry about things you have no control over because there's nothing you can do about them, and why worry about things you do control? The activity of worrying keeps you immobilized”. - Wayne Dyer

I am so lucky. I meet so many fine folks who are determined to grow and prosper. I wonder who else has the opportunity to spend their day helping others achieve their goals and dreams. Kind of nice to say the least.

I do hear often, however, the concern and sometimes paralyzing fixation on things in their life and in our culture that they cannot control, and it stops them dead in their tracks. They don’t change; they don’t grow; they become miserable and so disenchanted.

Of late – it’s the economy, the politics of our nation, the changing culture of workers who have become either disengaged or feel entitled, taxes or other significant challenges we are facing as a culture and nation – as well as residents of our region. These are big issues – huge issues – that we cannot control but have a say in – when you visit the voting booth or contact your legislative leader.
But in the meantime – don’t be halted in your positive plans to move forward by those things you cannot control – focus on what you can control:

• The quality of life you ,and if appropriate, your family enjoys – and protect it.
• The job or career you are in – make it the best experience possible and don’t be held back by the big issues – they are relevant but not paralyzing
• Your relationships – personal, in the community and in your “extended” community – protect and nurture these and continue to grow.
• Your attitude – paramount among all. Your outlook on your future, your life and the achievement of your dreams & goals will define the control you will have on your future. Think rich and be rich; think positive and live a positive life.

Commit to identifying the factors that may be holding you back and with each one ask the question – and give an honest answer:

Can I control this outcome ?

What you can control, change and focus on; let the others drop to the bottom of the list.

Only one person can control you – and that is you yourself. If you can’t control other factors that influence you, let them go, move on and prosper.

And thank you for reading this. - Dan

Thursday, September 22, 2011

Job Market report, 9 2 11

Some good news - from two sources ....
_______________________________________________________________________________

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
September 21, 2011

Job Postings End Slide – Up Slightly Past Seven Days

(Albany, NY, September 21, 2011) – After a series of weeks where job postings, a leading indicator of hiring, were flat or down, this past week saw a gain if albeit a small gain. Job postings came in at just about 4300, up from 3800 the week before. This is after a slide last week of about 5% on the heels of a 15% drop the week prior.

“The region’s postings have been somewhat anemic in the recent past and it appears that the impact of Hurricane Irene along with concerns over the economy gave the area a one-two punch. This is the first piece of bright news in a bit and let’s hope it is the beginning of a more positive trend that job seekers want to see”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie.

Moran offered this advice. “The news of late hasn’t been positive on a national basis and sometimes it is difficult to see the forest through the trees. However, just yesterday we saw the unemployment rate in NYS dip to 6.7%, a full 2+% less than the national rate and good private sector job growth was reported. As a State and Region, we are doing much better that other parts of the country and while fewer, there are some excellent jobs in the market today which is why job seekers should not tone down their efforts but ramp them up to get a job. Unemployment is down so the competition is a bit less – that is a good combination”.

Job postings were down slightly in Buffalo and Rochester and up in metro NY and Syracuse. Albany is the smallest market in size when compared to the other markets outside of NYC and continues to outpace with more job postings.


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

Sunday, September 18, 2011

Focus on what really counts ...

“Don't dwell on what went wrong. Instead, focus on what to do next. Spend your energies on moving forward toward finding the answer.” Denis Waitley

So often people focus on the things that really don't make a difference in their life and career, and they let the important things go by.

They focus and harp on the little things. Things that really don't, at the end of the day, make a difference. Things like putting something in the wrong place or forgetting a detail that doesn't make a difference when one should focus on how they serve their customer or family or community -- the big things.

It is like the expression "chasing a nickel while dollars fly away ...." You lose big while thinking small. Like passing up a promotion because it might mean an hour or so a day of extra work ... or demanding that your way is the one and only way to do something and being closed minded (you never win at this for sure and you will not grow or be promoted in your career if the mind is closed).

Take Mario who I met on a river cruise in Europe this past summer (I never stop working!). (www.uniworld.com/riverbeatrice). He commands a staff responsible for providing impeccable. --- and I mean impeccable - service to 150 passengers who expect the best -- always.

Mario's theory about managing is getting his team to focus on what is important:

... Smile always
... Acknowledge the customer/guest
....Do what the customer asks and then go one step beyond

"I don't overreact if the fork isn't perfectly placed but I will provide a reminder and firm coaching if one of the staff does not respond to the customer or the very worst, is curt. These are the big things that the customer will never forget. I work as a member of the team and pitch in and always with a watchful eye. When I see something array, I wait until the customer is gone and I coach the staff member, with respect always.

Mario leads by example , respect and a focus on what is important and his staff knows it. Being honored by CondeNast as the top river cruise ship in the world for 2010 is surely a reflection of this, and it shows.

"To my team I am Mario, one of the team and not their boss. When they mess up and don't focus on what important, they know I will become Mario the boss and our goal is simple - don't let this happen.

Focus on what is important – let the other things go. You will achieve more and be fulfilled. And thank you for reading this. - Dan

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Weekly Jobs Report, September 15, 2011

Still tough out there -- Irene raised havoc too ...
_______________________________________________________________________________

For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
September 4, 2011

Job Postings Drop Again Past Seven Days

(Albany, NY, September 14, 2011) – Job postings continued to drop this past week by about 5% on the heels of a 15% drop just after the Labor Day holiday signaling continued concern. Postings came in at just about 3850 compared to just about 4000 the week prior. This is the first time the market dipped below 4000 in a few months.

“The region should have seen a shot of increased job postings right after the holiday and this has not materialized signaling a continuing concern among employers in terms of future hiring. In addition, the effects of Hurricane Irene seems to have taken a toll on the business community to a larger extent than first imagined as a significant percentage of businesses report that their business was impacted by the effects of the storm”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie. “ What we are seeing in our region isn’t unusual – the rest of the country is seeking the same – strong demand in June and early July that then just fell off the table and has stayed that way. What is unusual is that our region has been impacted in the same manner – it hasn’t in the most recent history in the past. What is unique – the effects of the Hurricane”. Job posting last year at this time were 4400.

Job postings were up in all other markets again pointing to the effects of the hurricane on our region as part of the answer. “New York City saw a huge bump in job activity after a few lower weeks”, stated Moran. Albany is the smallest market in size when compared to the other markets outside of NYC and continues to outpace with more job postings.


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.

Sunday, September 11, 2011

Happy New Year … think I am crazy?

“If every day is an awakening, you will never grow old. You will just keep growing’. - Gail Sheehy


Not so. Many believe that there are two New Years of the year – those days when you set your new goals and intentions – January 1st, and Labor Day. We realize summer is behind us, the kids go back to school, the weather cools and it is time to get back into action. Summer is behind us – time to move on.


It is the time of the year that we put our summer intentions into high gear, when the “… I will do it after Labor Day …” becomes timely. The time of the year when we are energized and poised to make the end of the year truly memorable. The malaise of summer seems to put forward progress on hold. We savor every day – especially the days of sunshine!


I find that as we pass that big day on the calendar, I hear from more and more professionals who have been on the sidelines for the summer and are now ready to engage to change their situation and begin their move. And I often ask the question:


Are you just “working” – or achieving leadership in your career?

Makes them feel uncomfortable in many situations. This is a tough question to answer. The day-to-day of your job or your business consumes you and often doesn’t provide the time for you to pause and reflect on where you have been, and most important, where one are going in career. In today’s employment market, it is critical that you put yourself first and not just work – but actively manage your career. Think of yourself as the CEO of your own company – You, Inc. This is the reality of today. It is about managing your career, not simply working.

To better understand what career management is, the following description accurately describes what career management is and is not. The last line is so important:


"The ability to actively manage one’s work life, make choices and career decisions in a rapidly changing environment. It is accepting responsibility for the strategic and proactive management of your career and being career-resilient and in control your own career actions and satisfaction. Career management is not job hunting – job hunting results when one does not manage their career.


Over the past few years, I have seen a significant increase in the number of professionals & executives who are not looking for a job, but rather seeking help with outlining and managing a career plan. I have also met more people than ever before seeking to take control of their destiny and consider starting their on business or as I call it, firing themselves from their jobs and hiring themselves into their passion. Now – that is exciting!

Developing a career management plan is an essential tool as you navigate your way through opportunities and challenges. The key – it must be specific, measurable and hold you accountable. The plan outlines your goals and establishes planned and measured actions. For example, it could be as simple as:

* Work with specialist to update resume 1/1/00 and 7/1/00 and update career journal
* Determine, with a professional, if I am right to be in my own business and drive my own destiny by 10/31/11.
* Attend one networking event and establish three contacts monthly
* Meet with career specialists twice yearly to discuss plan, strategy and opportunities.
* Passively monitor job activity in my chosen profession

Some of my clients will not be pursuing a new job or business opportunity for 1 – 2 – 3 or more years, but they are planning now, creating a career journal (accomplishments, successes, what you learned and of course, what didn’t work) and using me as their guide and face to the market, so to speak. They are truly in control of their greatest personal economic resource – their business or their job.

Determine to take control and be in control of your career. It is truly a life change you will never forget. 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