“Make the most of yourself, for that is all there is of you.” Ralph Waldo Emersonhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
I had the opportunity to interview Dr. Mary Hawkins, President of Bellevue University, S. Bellevue, Nebraska and to talk to her about the new initiative Bellevue University has launched to address the real concerns of many in today’s market –the downward spiral of quality education and the ranking of US education in the world. Once number one, the US ranks 12th internationally – and we clearly need to change this to be competitive.
We hear the term “best of” each year. Publications survey to rank the Best Of for restaurants, sports, venues etc.But how can you be the “Best Of “ in your life, fulfilled in career and life? It all starts with a commitment (we will discuss the University’s Make It Happen Now initiative) and a pledge to be your best.
Dr. Hawkins – and I agree with her 100% - feels that students who started but did not complete their degree often get left behind as the job market and skill requirements change. “60 % of those who start a course of education, sadly, do not complete it”, stated Dr. Hawkins, a statistic that floored me. “College counselors struggle to understand the needs of today’s students. If we can motivate those students to return later in life, there could be a positive impact upon the nation”.
Dr. Hawkins – you study identified that 25% of workers don’t like their job. Was this surprising ?
“Yes Dan as I did not think the percentage would be that high. This high level of discontent with work, impacts productivity and morale and as well, since a job is so tightly aligned to an individual, their self-satisfaction, family and community. If one is unhappy in their job, it affects all parts of their life”.
Do you feel there is a shift in traditional thoughts about work – with work being a means to produce income and you needn’t be happy as long as you were making money to support the family?
“Absolutely. There is clearly a new thought process so unlike previous generations. Our parents and generations before worked in one industry, one company for their careers – even if they didn’t like their job. It was just the right thing to do. Today there are new opportunities to redirect one’s career, and people are more mobile offering even more opportunities. There are new options to continue education in a traditional or non-traditional way, opening new doors for those contemplating a change” .
You also found that 12% were opting for self-employment. Why do you feel this is happening?
“We are finding that people want more control over their lives and more flexibility. Younger students see what is possible as they have witnessed the founders of Facebook and Apple become rock stars and rich, and often their plan is to follow that path versus traditional employment. People also seem to want to create something of their own – to create their own work of art - and they have the means and resources to do so with technology and communication. Colleges are beginning to catch up to this wave. Here at Bellevue University, we established a Center of Entrepreneurship to specifically address this need and the emerging growth”.
To those readers reading this shaking their heads and saying, yup – this is me I need to restart – what advice do you have for them?
“The most important action – commit. You and I know Dan that the first step in redirecting ones career is that commitment to yourself. We ask people to take a pledge to them elves as part of the Make It Happen Now initiative. Next, if further education is your goal contact your college of choice and if you do not get the answers you need, call another. Make sure they understand your needs. We are always here at Bellevue to help. One should also look to their current employer to see if there are educational benefits available.
Fast forward five years from now – what do you hope we see in the next 5 years survey?
“I would love to see 50% of those who have started but not finished their education get to completion which will help them grow and provide their family. If we get this going, we will be in great shape”
Tell me more about MakeItHappenNow.org
“It was born here at the University and is part of our commitment to help the 38 million Americans who have some college credit but no degrees realize their dreams. Everyone is asked to make a personal pledge of commitment to their goals which is printable and can be shared with others. That is the start. From there, we provide, via our website, a host of resources, experts in the field of career and education which I know you are joining Dan, and information to inform and motivate those who make a commitment. It all starts with the pledge and one can do it right now: http://www.makeithappennow.org/pledge/”.
Dr. Hawkins leadership is inspiring to see and it isn’t just words – it is action! Take the first step – a critical step – commit to be the “Best“ in your life. Take the pledge and keep it in front of you.
And thank you for reading this. - Dan
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Job Market Report April 25, 2012
Sadly the numbers seem stuck .. market is flat, but do not let this deter you!
___________________________________________________________________________________________
For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
April 25, 2012
Job Postings Flat; Market Appears Stalled
(Albany, NY, April 25, 2012) – When the Regional job market should be seeing signs of growth, it appears that employers have put the brakes on hiring, and this is concerning. So states Dan Moran who tracks job activity daily. “This is the season where we historically see a significant increase in hiring activity for the Spring and early Summer and it is not happening. All signs now point to the fact that the job market has weakened in our Region – a Region that typically outpaces the State and nation just when it appeared a stronger recovery was on the horizon. This appears to be consistent with national reports that show that the unemployment rate is not changing or improving and new jobs have slowed,” stated Moran, of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie. “There is a concerning slow down in the job market and therefore economic recovery”.
Job postings were 1650 this past seven days, down from 1700 the week prior. “The increases we saw a few weeks ago have evaporated”.
To those in the market today looking for a new job Moran recommends, “Don’t get hung up on the numbers. While the market is softer there are still great jobs in the market so don’t let the ups and downs of the numbers concern you”.
Other markets in NYS posted similar results, up or down slightly. Metro NYC has been languishing as of late with the overall market being down some 40-50-% signaling a regional issue, and consistent with national reports.
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
Celebrating 24-years of helping others in 2012!
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, April 22, 2012
Your public information (no not just Facebook) may be wrong – and this will cost you in business …
It is the first responsibility of every citizen to question authority. – Ben Franklin
A few weeks ago, the hot topic was employers asking for personal passwords and logins for Facebook and other social media tools to snoop on an applicant.
This past few weeks more – Reports are surfacing of job seekers being denied or being disqualified from jobs because of information obtained by an employer through a background check, perhaps provided through a third-party service, that contains faulty information. It is happening frequently and job seekers need to protect themselves from this as much as possible.
It appears that the problems is with public records that are provided, for a fee, to services and employers conducting background checks on potential employers as well as credit reports may contain incorrect information. Services and employers can purchase this information from public sources – State criminal records systems, municipalities etc. – and as we understand there are inaccuracies which may be detrimental to an applicant.
This is nothing new. Background checks have been conducted for many, many years. Oftentimes they were limited to positions in law enforcement, protective & child services or other roles where people may be placed in roles in contact with others such as these. This was expanded to include credit checks to determine certain characteristics and then expended to include educational verification.
It now is expanding to most any position in any industry as employers are required, under the fear of liability, to fully vet new employees and uncover any potential issues beforehand and before an incident, which has been happening. The information that is being request and viewed can be extensive and include:
• Driving records
• Vehicle registration
• Credit records
• Criminal records
• Social Security no.
• Education records
• Court records
• Workers' compensation
• Bankruptcy
• Character references
• Neighbor interviews
• Medical records
• Property ownership
• Military records
• State licensing records
• Drug test records
• Past employers
• Personal references
• Incarceration records
• Sex offender lists
… and given the position, maybe more.
So what can you do to protect yourself?
Five suggestions:
• If you have or suspect there may be a criminal history of some sort in your record, request a copy of it and be sure it is accurate.
• Check your credit record and monitor it. You can request a free copy of your credit record from the major providers. Question inaccuracies.
• Be absolutely certain that you provide the right data when requested to do so for a background check. Be sure education dates are right, addresses etc.
• Monitor what is posted about you on the Internet and especially through social media (Facebook etc.) services.
• Protect your identity at all times as there are cases where those with similar sounding or spelled names are mistakenly identified, or of course, cases of identity theft.
Can you see what is reported?
Sadly likely not with the exception of a credit record report. Employers are not obligated to share this info and for liability likely would not do so upon request. So, your personal due diligence is paramount.
Will this go away?
Likely not as well. The laws are so conflicting, and the stakes high to an employer charged with a negligent hiring lawsuit. So, better clean up your house and keep it tidy.
Honesty – always the best policy. And thank you for reading this. - Dan
Dan Moran
President & Founder
Next-Act
Career Management & Transition Specialists
Celebrating 24 years providing career management services in 2012!
125 Wolf Road, Suite #128
Albany, NY 12205
Office: 518-261-4212
Cell: 518-641-8968
eFax: 586-279-4212
dmoran@next-act.com
A few weeks ago, the hot topic was employers asking for personal passwords and logins for Facebook and other social media tools to snoop on an applicant.
This past few weeks more – Reports are surfacing of job seekers being denied or being disqualified from jobs because of information obtained by an employer through a background check, perhaps provided through a third-party service, that contains faulty information. It is happening frequently and job seekers need to protect themselves from this as much as possible.
It appears that the problems is with public records that are provided, for a fee, to services and employers conducting background checks on potential employers as well as credit reports may contain incorrect information. Services and employers can purchase this information from public sources – State criminal records systems, municipalities etc. – and as we understand there are inaccuracies which may be detrimental to an applicant.
This is nothing new. Background checks have been conducted for many, many years. Oftentimes they were limited to positions in law enforcement, protective & child services or other roles where people may be placed in roles in contact with others such as these. This was expanded to include credit checks to determine certain characteristics and then expended to include educational verification.
It now is expanding to most any position in any industry as employers are required, under the fear of liability, to fully vet new employees and uncover any potential issues beforehand and before an incident, which has been happening. The information that is being request and viewed can be extensive and include:
• Driving records
• Vehicle registration
• Credit records
• Criminal records
• Social Security no.
• Education records
• Court records
• Workers' compensation
• Bankruptcy
• Character references
• Neighbor interviews
• Medical records
• Property ownership
• Military records
• State licensing records
• Drug test records
• Past employers
• Personal references
• Incarceration records
• Sex offender lists
… and given the position, maybe more.
So what can you do to protect yourself?
Five suggestions:
• If you have or suspect there may be a criminal history of some sort in your record, request a copy of it and be sure it is accurate.
• Check your credit record and monitor it. You can request a free copy of your credit record from the major providers. Question inaccuracies.
• Be absolutely certain that you provide the right data when requested to do so for a background check. Be sure education dates are right, addresses etc.
• Monitor what is posted about you on the Internet and especially through social media (Facebook etc.) services.
• Protect your identity at all times as there are cases where those with similar sounding or spelled names are mistakenly identified, or of course, cases of identity theft.
Can you see what is reported?
Sadly likely not with the exception of a credit record report. Employers are not obligated to share this info and for liability likely would not do so upon request. So, your personal due diligence is paramount.
Will this go away?
Likely not as well. The laws are so conflicting, and the stakes high to an employer charged with a negligent hiring lawsuit. So, better clean up your house and keep it tidy.
Honesty – always the best policy. And thank you for reading this. - Dan
Dan Moran
President & Founder
Next-Act
Career Management & Transition Specialists
Celebrating 24 years providing career management services in 2012!
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, April 18, 2012
Job Market Report April 18 2012
A bit down --- but within a good range ...
______________________________________________________________
For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
April 18, 2012
Job Postings Down Slightly after strong up tick
(Albany, NY, April 18, 2012) – After a strong increase of 21% last week, job postings pull back a bit to just over 1700 down from 1940 the week prior. “It is not unusual to see a slight pull back after a strong increase one week as we have seen. Staying up in the 1700-2000 range is good for the market at this point and we are in that range signaling a better prospect for jobs in the short term, meaning the second quarter”, stated Moran, of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie.
Other markets in NYS posted similar results, up or down slightly. Metro NYC has been languishing as of late with the overall market being down some 40-50-% signaling a regional issue, and consistent with national reports.
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
Celebrating 24-years of helping others in 2012!
125 Wolf Road, Suite #128
Albany, NY 12205
Office: 518-261-4212
Cell: 518-641-8968
eFax: 586-279-4212
dmoran@next-act.com
______________________________________________________________
For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
April 18, 2012
Job Postings Down Slightly after strong up tick
(Albany, NY, April 18, 2012) – After a strong increase of 21% last week, job postings pull back a bit to just over 1700 down from 1940 the week prior. “It is not unusual to see a slight pull back after a strong increase one week as we have seen. Staying up in the 1700-2000 range is good for the market at this point and we are in that range signaling a better prospect for jobs in the short term, meaning the second quarter”, stated Moran, of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie.
Other markets in NYS posted similar results, up or down slightly. Metro NYC has been languishing as of late with the overall market being down some 40-50-% signaling a regional issue, and consistent with national reports.
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
Celebrating 24-years of helping others in 2012!
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, April 15, 2012
Just what gives with jobs – and should you care?
“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
Job market up ... down … up … stuck. And it goes on and on.
So very confusing . Just when we see light at the end of the tunnel, the tunnel shuts and jobs in the market go down. I report his each week in our region and I have to admit, confusing – but real.
So what gives?
Good question. We ended 2011 on a high with stronger job market and posting activity, a leading indicator of hiring (companies post jobs, interview and hire 30-45 day out). The strong end to 2011 was a flip from the late 2nd quarter and 3rd quarter results that just fizzled as DC lawmakers were stuck and unable to agree on anything, the European markets began to raise a concern and gas prices began to creep up. So, the very strong start of 2011 fizzled in the middle and then ended strong.
Fast forward 2012 …
Here we are in mid-April 2012 and to date, the job market hasn’t caught steam and has been flat. Employers seem to be holding back and waiting more positive signs. Recent stock market performance and renewed European economic concerns are not helping. We should see stronger job growth in March - June – the time of the year when hiring is typically best. As you read this, I have just reported a very good prior seven-day period when job postings jumped 20% in one week for our Region. Also, postings on some days exceeded 2000 – haven’t see that for four months.
And what is ahead?
There are stronger forecasts for the 2nd quarter for the job market. The Business Roundtable CEO Survey found that 42% were planning to hire in the 2nd quarter, up from 35% (that’s 20% higher and the survey can be found at businessroundtable.org/blog/ceo-survey-the-coverage- ). Local forecasts mirror this.
Then again, we are the Capital Region …
We cannot ignore that our area is a bit insulated as we do have a strong base of jobs in the public sector (about 24% of the workforce) and plenty happening of a positive growth note – Global Foundries, Albany Nanotech and much, much more. Forbes ranked this Region as #4 in the nation for growth and opportunities – number four – that is huge. Other markets around the country have been hit harder and recovering slower – they don’t have this insulation.
So – what does all this mean to you – the individual seeking a new job or redirecting your career?
Nothing. Absolutely nothing.
If you get wrapped up in the numbers (like me!), you will get confused and frustrated. No matter if the market is up or down, your singular focus to say the hell with the numbers, and seek out that one opportunity – that one role you want to play in the career you desire – and stay focused on that.
Others will tell you how “bad” things are but don’t listen to them. Be annoying to them – be positive. In the 24 + years I have been in this business, I have seen people advance, grow and prosper under the most dire of conditions and situations.
It just takes being positive, focused, directed and in control.
You can do that.
And thank you for reading this. - Dan
Job market up ... down … up … stuck. And it goes on and on.
So very confusing . Just when we see light at the end of the tunnel, the tunnel shuts and jobs in the market go down. I report his each week in our region and I have to admit, confusing – but real.
So what gives?
Good question. We ended 2011 on a high with stronger job market and posting activity, a leading indicator of hiring (companies post jobs, interview and hire 30-45 day out). The strong end to 2011 was a flip from the late 2nd quarter and 3rd quarter results that just fizzled as DC lawmakers were stuck and unable to agree on anything, the European markets began to raise a concern and gas prices began to creep up. So, the very strong start of 2011 fizzled in the middle and then ended strong.
Fast forward 2012 …
Here we are in mid-April 2012 and to date, the job market hasn’t caught steam and has been flat. Employers seem to be holding back and waiting more positive signs. Recent stock market performance and renewed European economic concerns are not helping. We should see stronger job growth in March - June – the time of the year when hiring is typically best. As you read this, I have just reported a very good prior seven-day period when job postings jumped 20% in one week for our Region. Also, postings on some days exceeded 2000 – haven’t see that for four months.
And what is ahead?
There are stronger forecasts for the 2nd quarter for the job market. The Business Roundtable CEO Survey found that 42% were planning to hire in the 2nd quarter, up from 35% (that’s 20% higher and the survey can be found at businessroundtable.org/blog/ceo-survey-the-coverage- ). Local forecasts mirror this.
Then again, we are the Capital Region …
We cannot ignore that our area is a bit insulated as we do have a strong base of jobs in the public sector (about 24% of the workforce) and plenty happening of a positive growth note – Global Foundries, Albany Nanotech and much, much more. Forbes ranked this Region as #4 in the nation for growth and opportunities – number four – that is huge. Other markets around the country have been hit harder and recovering slower – they don’t have this insulation.
So – what does all this mean to you – the individual seeking a new job or redirecting your career?
Nothing. Absolutely nothing.
If you get wrapped up in the numbers (like me!), you will get confused and frustrated. No matter if the market is up or down, your singular focus to say the hell with the numbers, and seek out that one opportunity – that one role you want to play in the career you desire – and stay focused on that.
Others will tell you how “bad” things are but don’t listen to them. Be annoying to them – be positive. In the 24 + years I have been in this business, I have seen people advance, grow and prosper under the most dire of conditions and situations.
It just takes being positive, focused, directed and in control.
You can do that.
And thank you for reading this. - Dan
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Job Market Report 4 12 12
A VERY NICE increase ...
_______________________________________________________________________________________
For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
April 11, 2012
Job Postings Up Over 20% --- One Day Numbers Best Since December
(Albany, NY, April 11, 2012) – Has the job market finally shaken off its doldrums the past month or so? Maybe so says and hopes Dan Moran, President & Founder of Next-Act. “This past week we saw a 20% increase in the number of job postings on a seven day average and more important, job postings topped 2000 for a day at a time, the first time since last December. This is the time we need to see renewed strength in available jobs given that March – June is the most active period of the year for hiring so let’s hope this holds”, stated Moran, of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie. Postings for the 7 day period grew to 1941, up from 1610 the prior seven day period. prior.
“We are still below the last quarter of 2011 when we saw a jump in hiring that seems to fizzle in the first quarter of 2012 but this number shows that there is some renewed confidence in the employer market. We can hope that the past few days of tougher economic news – lower national job growth and an unsure stock market – won’t affect this confidence”. Moran stated that lower expectations in market results historically has eroded employer confidence for a period of time.
Job Seekers Need to Protect Themselves Against Faulty Background Checks
Reports are surfacing of job seekers being denied or being disqualified from jobs because of information obtained by an employer, perhaps through a third-party service, that contains faulty information. It is happening frequently and job seekers need to protect themselves from this as much as possible.
“It appears that the problems is with public records that are provided, for a fee, to services and employers conducting background checks on potential employers as well as credit reports that contain bad information”, stated Dan Moran. “ Services and employers can purchase this information from public sources – State criminal records systems, municipalities etc. – and as we understand there are inaccuracies which may be detrimental to an applicant”.
Moran continued, “To protect yourself to the degree that you can, five suggestions:
• If you have or suspect there may be a criminal history of some sort in your record, request a copy of it and be sure it is accurate.
• Check your credit record and monitor it. You can request a free copy of your credit record from the major providers. Question inaccuracies.
• Be absolutely certain that you provide the right data when requested to do so for a background check. Be sure education dates are right, addresses etc.
• Monitor what is posted about you on the Internet and especially through social media (Facebook etc.) services.
• Protect your identity at all times as there are cases where those with similar sounding or spelled names are mistakenly identified, or of course, cases of identity theft.
“Can you see what is being reported – sadly likely not with the exception of a credit record report. Employers are not obligated to share this info and for liability likely would not do so upon request. So, your personal due diligence is paramount”.
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
Celebrating 24-years of helping others in 2012!
125 Wolf Road, Suite #128
Albany, NY 12205
Office: 518-261-4212
Cell: 518-641-8968
eFax: 586-279-4212
dmoran@next-act.com
_______________________________________________________________________________________
For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
April 11, 2012
Job Postings Up Over 20% --- One Day Numbers Best Since December
(Albany, NY, April 11, 2012) – Has the job market finally shaken off its doldrums the past month or so? Maybe so says and hopes Dan Moran, President & Founder of Next-Act. “This past week we saw a 20% increase in the number of job postings on a seven day average and more important, job postings topped 2000 for a day at a time, the first time since last December. This is the time we need to see renewed strength in available jobs given that March – June is the most active period of the year for hiring so let’s hope this holds”, stated Moran, of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie. Postings for the 7 day period grew to 1941, up from 1610 the prior seven day period. prior.
“We are still below the last quarter of 2011 when we saw a jump in hiring that seems to fizzle in the first quarter of 2012 but this number shows that there is some renewed confidence in the employer market. We can hope that the past few days of tougher economic news – lower national job growth and an unsure stock market – won’t affect this confidence”. Moran stated that lower expectations in market results historically has eroded employer confidence for a period of time.
Job Seekers Need to Protect Themselves Against Faulty Background Checks
Reports are surfacing of job seekers being denied or being disqualified from jobs because of information obtained by an employer, perhaps through a third-party service, that contains faulty information. It is happening frequently and job seekers need to protect themselves from this as much as possible.
“It appears that the problems is with public records that are provided, for a fee, to services and employers conducting background checks on potential employers as well as credit reports that contain bad information”, stated Dan Moran. “ Services and employers can purchase this information from public sources – State criminal records systems, municipalities etc. – and as we understand there are inaccuracies which may be detrimental to an applicant”.
Moran continued, “To protect yourself to the degree that you can, five suggestions:
• If you have or suspect there may be a criminal history of some sort in your record, request a copy of it and be sure it is accurate.
• Check your credit record and monitor it. You can request a free copy of your credit record from the major providers. Question inaccuracies.
• Be absolutely certain that you provide the right data when requested to do so for a background check. Be sure education dates are right, addresses etc.
• Monitor what is posted about you on the Internet and especially through social media (Facebook etc.) services.
• Protect your identity at all times as there are cases where those with similar sounding or spelled names are mistakenly identified, or of course, cases of identity theft.
“Can you see what is being reported – sadly likely not with the exception of a credit record report. Employers are not obligated to share this info and for liability likely would not do so upon request. So, your personal due diligence is paramount”.
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
Celebrating 24-years of helping others in 2012!
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, April 8, 2012
Yes – employers behavior , as well, appalling too …
Treat others as you want them to treat you because what goes around comes around”. - Arthur Wing Pinero
Last week in my blog I shared stories about job applicants and their behavior when applying for jobs. The blog focused on how many applicants don’t return phone calls, call days later, are rude on the phone and generally don’t get it – they have contacted an employer for a potential job, and they blew it on their disrespectful, unprofessional and often sloppy way they handle a first contact – a first impression.
Got a huge response from readers. Most all agreed that the type of behavior I was describing from job applicants is just plain unacceptable – and they no longer wonder why some can’t find a job..
And I got an earful too …
… and well deserved.
Many commented, through my blog or privately by email or phone, how unprofessional and disrespectful many in Human Resources or other parts of companies have become. I heard stories about people going through three interviews, being promised a call about the companies decision, and never hearing anything. Other stories about never getting a call back, no response to emails and of course, sending resumes to never hear anything from a company at all. In my practice, I hear these stories all the time and it is a pity. Companies perhaps don’t realize how much of a negative impression they leave behind, and that costs them reputation and longer term business (see my story below).
I say it often – technology has made it easier to find job opportunities but at the same time, it makes finding a job so much more difficult. There is no protocol, no contact, no follow-up and no connection. You have one shot to sell yourself through your application or resume and it is tough to make that next impression through an interview or even phone conversation if you cannot make a “human” connection.
A few suggestions …
• To make a connection, find someone in a company through LinkedIn or other networking, and make a connection to get past just the automated application system.
• Send a follow-up note in the mail – yes snail mail – letting the company know of your interest and the fact that you applied per their instructions.
• Above all, try to get beyond (no you cannot get around) applicant tracking processing systems.
Think about your first impression …
It is important to measure and gauge a company by the impression they make on you. If you are treated without respect, rudely or feel that people at that company just don’t care, then it is likely rooted in the culture of the company. So ask yourself: Do I really want to work in a company like that? The answer is likely no.
Treating job applicants poorly does cost a company …
Okay, my story to share. A client of mine told me about her experience in applying for a job at a local car dealership, the name which I will keep to myself. Her family and extended family had purchased 18 vehicles from this dealership – and they were not cheap cars – over the past 5 years or so. That’s quite a bit of business!
She followed instructions to apply for a position, sent her resume and then stopped by to follow-up. She was treated so rudely by a person in the office that she turned on her heels and walked out. As she told me the story, she related how she told all her family members and friends too – they vowed never to buy a car there or recommend that dealership.
With her permission, I called the owner, who I know, and told him the story. He was appalled and as well thankful that I shared this with him. And yes – he made a few changes in the office – get the drift?
Treat others with the respect that you expect. Never stand for being disrespected. First impressions counts, and if your gut tells you that the culture isn’t right for you, go with your gut.
Thank you to all for your comments.
And thank you for reading this. - Dan
Dan Moran
President & Founder
Next-Act
Career Management & Transition Specialists
Celebrating 24 years providing career management services in 2012!
125 Wolf Road, Suite #128
Albany, NY 12205
Office: 518-261-4212
Cell: 518-641-8968
eFax: 586-279-4212
Last week in my blog I shared stories about job applicants and their behavior when applying for jobs. The blog focused on how many applicants don’t return phone calls, call days later, are rude on the phone and generally don’t get it – they have contacted an employer for a potential job, and they blew it on their disrespectful, unprofessional and often sloppy way they handle a first contact – a first impression.
Got a huge response from readers. Most all agreed that the type of behavior I was describing from job applicants is just plain unacceptable – and they no longer wonder why some can’t find a job..
And I got an earful too …
… and well deserved.
Many commented, through my blog or privately by email or phone, how unprofessional and disrespectful many in Human Resources or other parts of companies have become. I heard stories about people going through three interviews, being promised a call about the companies decision, and never hearing anything. Other stories about never getting a call back, no response to emails and of course, sending resumes to never hear anything from a company at all. In my practice, I hear these stories all the time and it is a pity. Companies perhaps don’t realize how much of a negative impression they leave behind, and that costs them reputation and longer term business (see my story below).
I say it often – technology has made it easier to find job opportunities but at the same time, it makes finding a job so much more difficult. There is no protocol, no contact, no follow-up and no connection. You have one shot to sell yourself through your application or resume and it is tough to make that next impression through an interview or even phone conversation if you cannot make a “human” connection.
A few suggestions …
• To make a connection, find someone in a company through LinkedIn or other networking, and make a connection to get past just the automated application system.
• Send a follow-up note in the mail – yes snail mail – letting the company know of your interest and the fact that you applied per their instructions.
• Above all, try to get beyond (no you cannot get around) applicant tracking processing systems.
Think about your first impression …
It is important to measure and gauge a company by the impression they make on you. If you are treated without respect, rudely or feel that people at that company just don’t care, then it is likely rooted in the culture of the company. So ask yourself: Do I really want to work in a company like that? The answer is likely no.
Treating job applicants poorly does cost a company …
Okay, my story to share. A client of mine told me about her experience in applying for a job at a local car dealership, the name which I will keep to myself. Her family and extended family had purchased 18 vehicles from this dealership – and they were not cheap cars – over the past 5 years or so. That’s quite a bit of business!
She followed instructions to apply for a position, sent her resume and then stopped by to follow-up. She was treated so rudely by a person in the office that she turned on her heels and walked out. As she told me the story, she related how she told all her family members and friends too – they vowed never to buy a car there or recommend that dealership.
With her permission, I called the owner, who I know, and told him the story. He was appalled and as well thankful that I shared this with him. And yes – he made a few changes in the office – get the drift?
Treat others with the respect that you expect. Never stand for being disrespected. First impressions counts, and if your gut tells you that the culture isn’t right for you, go with your gut.
Thank you to all for your comments.
And thank you for reading this. - Dan
Dan Moran
President & Founder
Next-Act
Career Management & Transition Specialists
Celebrating 24 years providing career management services in 2012!
125 Wolf Road, Suite #128
Albany, NY 12205
Office: 518-261-4212
Cell: 518-641-8968
eFax: 586-279-4212
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Job Market Report 4 4 12
Well - down a bit but good overall regional job growth year on year ...
__________________________________________________________________________________
For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
April 4, 2012
Job Postings Down Very Slightly --- Market appears stuck
(Albany, NY, April 4, 2012) – After a one week slight increase, job postings reversed the trend and dropped very slightly, demonstrating yet again the difficulty the job market has had to return to robust growth as we are in the prime hiring months of the year. “This is the time of the year when we want to see consistent growth and while we were seeing this the past two weeks, again this week, another drop however so slight. The job market doesn’t appear to be as strong as needed and this is on the heels of a pesky unemployment rate in the region that is holding at 8.1% and not going down, while in the State, unemployment increased this past month”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie. Postings for the 7 day period were 1610, down from 1727 the week prior.
“Overall job postings are trending about 40% lower than 2011 in 2012. While this isn’t good news, what is good news is that over the past year (Feb. to Feb.) the region added 5500 jobs as reported by the NYS Dept. of Labor. To the job seeker --- the numbers are confusing but the fact remains, there are good jobs in the market now – just not as many, so don’t let these numbers hold you back, keep your search activity strong as more and more people are finding jobs as evidenced by the growth of 5500 jobs over the past year”.
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
Celebrating 24-years of helping others in 2012!
125 Wolf Road, Suite #128
Albany, NY 12205
Office: 518-261-4212
Cell: 518-641-8968
eFax: 586-279-4212
dmoran@next-act.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
For Information: Dan Moran, 518-641-8968
April 4, 2012
Job Postings Down Very Slightly --- Market appears stuck
(Albany, NY, April 4, 2012) – After a one week slight increase, job postings reversed the trend and dropped very slightly, demonstrating yet again the difficulty the job market has had to return to robust growth as we are in the prime hiring months of the year. “This is the time of the year when we want to see consistent growth and while we were seeing this the past two weeks, again this week, another drop however so slight. The job market doesn’t appear to be as strong as needed and this is on the heels of a pesky unemployment rate in the region that is holding at 8.1% and not going down, while in the State, unemployment increased this past month”, stated Dan Moran, Founder & President of Next-Act (www.next-act.com), a career transition management firm located in Colonie. Postings for the 7 day period were 1610, down from 1727 the week prior.
“Overall job postings are trending about 40% lower than 2011 in 2012. While this isn’t good news, what is good news is that over the past year (Feb. to Feb.) the region added 5500 jobs as reported by the NYS Dept. of Labor. To the job seeker --- the numbers are confusing but the fact remains, there are good jobs in the market now – just not as many, so don’t let these numbers hold you back, keep your search activity strong as more and more people are finding jobs as evidenced by the growth of 5500 jobs over the past year”.
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
Celebrating 24-years of helping others in 2012!
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, April 1, 2012
Some job applicants – well, they are appalling …
There's a lot of blood, sweat, and guts between dreams and success.” – Paul Bryant
I got a dose of reality the past month or so.
I have been helping a company review resumes of job applicants, calling them to talk about their skills and qualifications and determining who should be moved to a phone interview. It is fun, interesting and as I have learned, so disturbing.
What is disturbing?
The attitude and behaviors of some job applicants .. it is – appalling.
Let me give you a few examples – and remember, they sent their resume in application for a position – they reached out to the company – no one was chasing them.
The behaviors:
• Call, leave a voice mail message clearly stating they are being considered a candidate for a job they applied for – never to hear back from them at all.
• Same as above, a return phone call 5 days later, “… I was busy…”. Really?
• Receiving a call back and the opening line is, “… What was that job I applied for?”.
• First question, “… How much does it pay?”
• Next question, “… so let me tell you what I will do and not do…”.
• Person hangs up – yup – hangs up.
• Schedule a phone interview with specific instruction of what they are to do (call this person at this time) and they blow it – forget who to call and when or don’t call at all. That’s just rude.
… and the list could go on and on. I wish I was making this stuff up, but I am not.
Remember – it is you – I am sorry do not mean to personalize – it is the person who was seeking the job who made the initial contact and they blow it up after. Try showing you are interested – and polite and not rude. You will get so much further.
If you are as appalled as I have been, need this advice please:
• Every phone call should be returned acknowledged within the same day received. That is respect.
• If you say you are going to do something at a specific time, do it – no excuses. Period. There are no second chances when looking for a job.You have only one shot to make a great impression – don’t blow it – do it.
• Treat others as you want to be treated – with respect.
It is so important in this competitive market to be on top of one’s game, follow-through, be assessable etc.
You can win if you sweat the details.
And thank you for reading this. – Dan
PS: I followed up my blog a few weeks ago with an interview on CBS6 about employers asking for job candidate’s FaceBook log-in and passwords. My message was clear: Do you really want to work for a company that would require this?
Getting some strong response on LinkedIn (http://www.linkedin.com/groupItem?view=&gid=153859&type=member&item=103777385&qid=47e675cc-fe0a-4089-b6b7-68037c4efb57&trk=group_most_popular-0-b-ttl&goback=.gmp_153859) you may be interested in support of my recommendation. Want to see the interview? (http://www.cbs6albany.com/news/top-stories/stories/vid_320.shtml?goback=.gmp_153859.gde_153859_member_103777385).
Dan Moran
President & Founder
Next-Act
Career Management & Transition Specialists
Celebrating 24 years providing career management services in 2012!
125 Wolf Road, Suite #128
Albany, NY 12205
Office: 518-261-4212
Cell: 518-641-8968
eFax: 586-279-4212
dmoran@next-act.com
I got a dose of reality the past month or so.
I have been helping a company review resumes of job applicants, calling them to talk about their skills and qualifications and determining who should be moved to a phone interview. It is fun, interesting and as I have learned, so disturbing.
What is disturbing?
The attitude and behaviors of some job applicants .. it is – appalling.
Let me give you a few examples – and remember, they sent their resume in application for a position – they reached out to the company – no one was chasing them.
The behaviors:
• Call, leave a voice mail message clearly stating they are being considered a candidate for a job they applied for – never to hear back from them at all.
• Same as above, a return phone call 5 days later, “… I was busy…”. Really?
• Receiving a call back and the opening line is, “… What was that job I applied for?”.
• First question, “… How much does it pay?”
• Next question, “… so let me tell you what I will do and not do…”.
• Person hangs up – yup – hangs up.
• Schedule a phone interview with specific instruction of what they are to do (call this person at this time) and they blow it – forget who to call and when or don’t call at all. That’s just rude.
… and the list could go on and on. I wish I was making this stuff up, but I am not.
Remember – it is you – I am sorry do not mean to personalize – it is the person who was seeking the job who made the initial contact and they blow it up after. Try showing you are interested – and polite and not rude. You will get so much further.
If you are as appalled as I have been, need this advice please:
• Every phone call should be returned acknowledged within the same day received. That is respect.
• If you say you are going to do something at a specific time, do it – no excuses. Period. There are no second chances when looking for a job.You have only one shot to make a great impression – don’t blow it – do it.
• Treat others as you want to be treated – with respect.
It is so important in this competitive market to be on top of one’s game, follow-through, be assessable etc.
You can win if you sweat the details.
And thank you for reading this. – Dan
PS: I followed up my blog a few weeks ago with an interview on CBS6 about employers asking for job candidate’s FaceBook log-in and passwords. My message was clear: Do you really want to work for a company that would require this?
Getting some strong response on LinkedIn (http://www.linkedin.com/groupItem?view=&gid=153859&type=member&item=103777385&qid=47e675cc-fe0a-4089-b6b7-68037c4efb57&trk=group_most_popular-0-b-ttl&goback=.gmp_153859) you may be interested in support of my recommendation. Want to see the interview? (http://www.cbs6albany.com/news/top-stories/stories/vid_320.shtml?goback=.gmp_153859.gde_153859_member_103777385).
Dan Moran
President & Founder
Next-Act
Career Management & Transition Specialists
Celebrating 24 years providing career management services in 2012!
125 Wolf Road, Suite #128
Albany, NY 12205
Office: 518-261-4212
Cell: 518-641-8968
eFax: 586-279-4212
dmoran@next-act.com
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