Houston Jobing Community Blogs

Ever feel like you are on the adventure of the Wizard of Oz? You are tying to follow the "yellow brick road of success" and all along the way you are faced with challenges that sometimes feel too big to handle. Considering the current employment situation, more and more people are telling me that they feel trapped in an increasingly hostile work environment.

What exactly is a hostile work environment? Well, recent law on hostile work environment harassment says that "bad behavior" can now constitute unlawful behavior, primarily to any protected class. So, it is now about "how" the behavior makes the victim "feel." What is important for both employees and employers to understand is that this is measured not by the intentions of the harasser or by the bias of the employee or employer. It is measured by the perception of the victim. So a hostile work environment is all about interpersonal behavior. Hence the sticky wicked.

Let's say that you feel that your boss is constantly questioning your work, leaving you out of meetings, screams at you in front of others and criticizing your every move? Is this a hostile work environment? Do you feel like a victim or is your boss an equal opportunity abuser? Hence the sticky wicked.

For me, I think the bottom line is that if you literally feel sick on Monday morning about going to work, something is wrong. If you get nauseated at the thought of having to communicate with your boss, something is wrong. Now, we have all had some creepy bosses (you may be a creepy boss. . .you know who you are) that just seem to be a pain from time to time. I am not talking about those. You can't expect to get along beautifully with everybody all of the time--we are people after all! I am talking about a work "atmosphere" that seriously effects your productivity, the ability to do your job well and enjoy the commodore of your colleagues.

In normal employment conditions, most people would simply start looking for another job and resign as soon as possible ( I hope), but this is not so easy in today's job market. So, I am asked "what can I do?" My advice would be to first try and have a conversation with your boss about your concerns and how you are feeling. Be prepared to provide some solutions and make sure your boss understands that you want to be as productive as you can. If that doesn't improve things somewhat (don't expect miracles) the next step would be to have a confidential conversation with someone in your Human Resources department. Perhaps they could look for another position within the company that you would be well suited for, or perhaps they can provide some guidance in dealing with a difficult boss, etc. My point being that you can and should do something! I can definitely advise you that now is a good time to be updating your resume, improving your skill sets, taking a class and networking. You will want to be "ready" when the job market improves to make a move.

You should let your Human Resource department know that you think you are working in a Hostile work environment as they need to know if this is a possibility. They will know what actions to take to investigate such an concern and will thank you for the 'heads up.'

Life is not fair, work is not usually a haven, and money doesn't grow on trees. Oh to be a kid again!!!

Doctor Bonnie

(This post is based on some of the principles included in my new book, Unlock the Hidden Job Market: 6 Steps to a Successful Job Search When Times Are Tough which I wrote with San Diego-based executive coach, Duncan Mathison. For a free sample chapter, visit the book's official site: www.unlockthehiddenjobmarket.com )

If you’ve been following my posts, you’ll know that I’ve been writing about networking a lot lately. Or at least it seems like it. Networking, networking, networking. Maybe it’s me but don’t you think that when you say it out loud enough, it begins to sound like earwax? Okay…it’s probably just me.

Networking doesn’t have much appeal, does it? It doesn’t sound nearly as much fun as going to your local Applebee’s with some friends for a beer and some wings. Now there’s a problem with even that Applebee’s scenario. Based on the emails I’ve been getting, a lot of you are feeling that you don’t have too many friends either. And the ones you do have are getting, like, really tired of hearing you talk about your struggles to land a job. And you’re getting really tired of talking about it too. In fact, you’d just wish they’d change the subject.

I don’t think my readers are social losers. (At least I hope not, but, then again, what are you doing reading this blog post when it’s such a pretty day outside?) When you’ve been out of work for any amount o time, it’s easy to feel that you have run aground in the contacts department – especially in recent years when we’ve all been so busy taking care of our jobs and our families. We’ve let outside friendships perhaps atrophy. Maybe all your friends were work-related. And now that you’re out of work, you’re also fresh out of buddies. Or you’ve moved to a new town where you really, really don’t know anyone.

Whatever the reason for your feelings of isolation, you know you have to mix it up a little bit, well, a lot. Get some fresh meat, I mean talent, into your tight circles of relationships. Get out of the house. So I thought I’d offer some tips in that direction.

Remember that one thing leads to another. The thing about circulating is that your first dip into big world probably won’t net you a job. It’s a cumulative kind of thing. So leave that desperate, graspy, over-eager feeling at home when you head out the door. Just be open to meeting who you meet. Maybe tonight you’re destined to actually help someone else. And you’ll come home feeling just a little better about yourself.

Look for opportunities where you can become a regular. And no, I don’t mean the Applebee’s bar. When your face starts becoming familiar, you will emerge from invisibility to someone who people will be glad to see. Maybe they’ll even shout out your name, like, “Norm!” (But don’t count on it.) If you try a business mixer or worship service or volunteer opportunity, and people completely ignore you, keep going. Week after week. Introduce yourself as often as you can. And just let the cumulative effects of time work their wonders.

Stay away from solitary pursuits, even if they’re out of the house. Going to a matinee movie doesn’t count as “getting out there.” Go to local economic development or chamber of commerce meetings, receptions, mixers. Your local bookstore probably offers booksignings, author lectures or special classes. A friend of mine who is a professional coach is part of a team who gives courses at Whole Foods! Go! The home improvement stores offer free courses. Go! The American Red Cross offers courses in first aid, cpr, etc. Go!

Make job-related networking events only a small percentage of your out-of-the-house activities. First of all, you’re so much more than unemployed. And you need to nurture those other parts of who you are. At the very least, this way you’ll lead with an opener that’s so much more interesting than, “Hi, gotta job?” But most importantly is that your self-definition has a chance to stay strong and defined beyond this immediate need of landing a gig. You will also stand a better chance of meeting people other than fellow job-seekers. You know…people who already have jobs? And who would be thrilled to help you get inside their companies or organizations.

Learn something. Go to local college courses – especially the ones at night, when employed people go to school. You don’t have to matriculate and take on the expense of a formal semester. Continuing ed courses can be inexpensive. The teachers are often professionals in the community (hint: employed people!). It’s probably best if you took a course that would help you be more qualified for the kind of job you’re looking for. But even taking a non-job related course will at least remind you that there’s more to life than your daily bread (although, it’s kind of hard to make that argument right now, I know).

Teach something. Surely you know something that will benefit others. How to read, for adult literacy programs, for instance. If you have a profession or skill that’s useful in the for-profit world, surely you can introduce at least the basics to young people. Convene a panel of other experts and put on a program! (You’ll be able to find a venue. A friend of mine hosted the annual meeting of his professional association – on the premises of the company that had just laid him off. Awkward.)

Volunteer. Those same skills you can teach you can donate. It will make you feel good about being who you are and what you can do. That boost in self-esteem will give you the added confidence that will send out the signal that you’re a valuable contributor to the world.

Call old friends – even if they haven’t heard from you in a long time. This is where Facebook comes in handy. The other day I heard from a dear friend for the first time in about 8 years. We’d been looking for each other off and on over recent years but, thanks to Facebook, she found me first! And we talked on the phone for a full three hours. A lot of it was catching up. But, she was also very candid about the fact that she needed some professional advice from me. Did I see this as a cheesy ulterior motive? Heck no! First off all, I owed her a gigantic favor from 10 years ago (I mean, huge). Secondly, I love her and I know she loves me. So whatever I have is hers. (Advice, I mean.)

Ask for introductions. Unless you’re a bitter whiner who needs to blow your nose and brush your teeth (and, uhm, a little roll-on?), the friends you have should be happy to give you introductions you need to move your job search forward. If they’re reluctant to help you, find out why. Wouldn’t you want to know the truth, especially if it was something you could fix? And, if they’re possessive with or protective of their contacts to the point where they’re keeping you from helping yourself, or making you feel judged, it’s best that you should know that now. You might have just discovered a brand new opening in your group of friends to fill.

They say that once you achieve a certain age, it gets harder and harder to make new friends. Everyone is set in their habits, patterns, commuting routine, relationships. Well, one of the upshots of these economic times is that everyone is thrown higgledy-piggledy into a big pile of confusion and some flavor of disconnectedness. Now is a fantastic time to build new circles of friends and business contacts.

And vow to take better care of them in the future. Like, don’t wait 8 years before picking up the phone.

 

In recent weeks I’ve been watching events unfold in Sedona  -- that whole James Arthur Ray thing and how people died in an ersatz sweat lodge.  I suppose for many people, a terrible event such as this (where people paid $9,000 for the privilege of dying a horrible death, surrounded in the gloom by their vomiting and fainting companions) is so exotic to most people that “that could never happen to me” is a thought that briefly passes through our minds.  And that would probably be true.

 

However, this whole clutch of motivation and self-help teachers has been bugging me over recent years. While a multitude of programs are offered every year that don't involve ambulances and homicide investigations, many of them are damaging in the way they take advantage of intelligent, open-minded individuals looking for a better way out of frustration and despair.  And the cumulative effect of little damages everywhere can also be very destructive indeed. And I’m worried that the general public might be even more at risk as the economy continues its stagger, stagger, crawl mode.  These are emotional frontiers we’re in, folks, and the woods are lousy with snake oil salesmen – people who promise to give you a breakthrough secret to life in a week or a weekend, for the price of a semester of college or a small car.

 I have had in my bookshelf for a couple of years now the book, SHAM, by Steven Salerno. And I’ve been really reluctant to read it. Primarily because I knew he would blow the lid off of the mechanics behind self-help gurus and their business models. And at the time I was also reading Martin Seligman (the very legitimate founder of the very legitimate positive psychology movement), and I was also dabbling in more than a little Jack Canfield, Tony Robbins, Marianne Williamson and even Joel Osteen. And, frankly, I liked the way their messages made me feel.  And while I certainly didn’t buy The Secret’s promises hook, link and sucker (I mean, sinker), having grown up in a family whose mantra was mainly, “ain’t it awful, ain’t it tragic,”  I knew there is definitely something to be said for willfully focusing on the positive side of things. If you have read my earlier postings, you’ll know that I believe that a positive attitude is more conducive to creative thinking and endurance during a time where everything seems to be hitting the fan.  At least it makes the ride a little more tolerable.

 But I also know a manipulative head-game when I see one. (At least I hope I do.) I certainly learned to recognize the signs when I’ve bought into one, much to my ever-lasting regret pretty quickly thereafter.  So, I thought I’d lay out a list of danger signs for you – with the hopes of helping you keep your money in your pocket.  (I get the fact that this could mean that I might miss out on a few sales of my own books – but at the end of this post I’m actually going to offer you my first book for free. I won’t even ask you for your email address as one of those cheesy quid pro quo gambits.)

 Avoid any course with titles containing such words as “breakthrough,” “success,” “transform,” “dream,” and whose tuition includes a comma.  Speaking from personal experience here.  These kinds of courses are mostly warmed over material drawn directly from the texts of books that you can purchase for $20 to $30.  There will be much playing of John Denver and hugging of total strangers  -- most who look like they either haven’t been hugged in decades or they’re really really really looking forward to hugging you. The break times are dedicated to urging you to sign up for the advanced course at twice the price (but today – and only today – slashed to the same amount you just paid for the basic course). My memories of those break times involve softly trance-inducing singing from the stage and a certain zombie-ness of the people moving to the back of the room where tables are conveniently set up, where staffers cheerfully accepted credit cards. Did I get anything of value from that basic week? Yes…my mastermind group is still intact after almost five years. We meet on the phone every other week and have become supportive friends. But have our circumstances changed significantly since we met that that “breakthrough” week?  Nope.  (As you can imagine, I’m usually the cranky one on our phone calls.)

 If you go to any course with a title that includes the words “spirit,” “warrior,” “vision quest,” make sure there is an EMT on call at all times before laying your money down. Most spiritual quests are flat-out scary. Who are these people to say they know the way, and will lead us there through a regimen of fasting, meditation and bodily deprivation? The way people refer to spirituality as Spirit, as if Spirit is their next door neighbor with handy cable piracy skills, is revolting. And the way white Americans romanticize the mysteries of Native American life and traditions is deeply hypocritical or willfully shallow. If they’re so enchanted by the Native American way, how about coming out to the Southwest, don't stop at the spas or casinos, and spend that week teaching Native American children to say no to crystal meth addiction and alcoholism? Share the inspiring benefits of your own education, skills and privilege, rather than trying to siphon off a few sips of mysticism from authentic traditions that you will never get anyway?

 If someone wants to teach you how to be rich (for whatever price), first find out how he got rich himself.  Look at the frequent fliers of this particular line of work, and you’ll find out that most of them got rich by sticking their hands into pockets of people just like you (and me). And they’re getting richer.  Did he ever grow a company, other than the staff of eager minions he has working for him now? Did he turn around a major corporation? Did he emerge from his own family of alcoholics and desperados to blaze his own trail by making something or contributing something useful to society (that is other than an ultra-expensive retreat)?  Is he an unimpeachable researcher who has the gift of translating esoteric, hard-to-understand information into immediately useful ideas that anyone can have for the price of a book?  That might be someone worth paying some attention to.

 When someone tells you that you’re nowhere without his secrets or gift, laugh and walk away. Need I say more? Okay, I will. I know of one so-called Buddhist guru (she’s American) who actually replaced the words “Higher Power” in the 12 Step Program with her own name.  That’s amazing. But what’s even more amazing is that hundreds of otherwise intelligent people said, “Duh, okay.”

 Just say no to any product marketed to you via email by someone you’ve never heard of but endorsed by someone you have. These people exchange mailing lists, knowing full well that purchasers of self-help products are the most likely to come back for more and more. The cynicism is mind-blowing.

 Avoid self-help books that were Number 1 on Amazon for, like, three hours one day.  Again, it’s the lists at work. These people know how to game the system and they use each others’ lists to snag that coveted spot, even for an instant. This way they can call themselves “bestselling authors.”  Big whup.

 Don’t give up your own dreams.  Life is full of true mysteries. My personal favorite one is the mystery of synchronicity. I’m a total sucker for those stories, and I have true, first-hand stories of my own that would curl your hair. But I wouldn’t bet the ranch on a synchronicity that I perceive to be an omen. (Even though, in my heart of hearts, I kind of hope it is.)

We all need fresh infusions of inspiration now and then. And  personal growth does involve keeping your mind open and venturing into uncomfortable zones now and then. But no breakthrough experience should necessitate group puking or even close bodily contact with strangers to the strains of “Sunshine On My Shoulders.”

 Keep your wallet in your pants. Or purse.

 (Now for the free offer:  I will give you a free copy of my very first book, Find Your Calling, Love Your Life. For absolutely nothing. Not even your email address.  Just go to www.unlockthehiddenjobmarket.com and click the green button that will lead you to free downloads. You can also have a free sample chapter of my new book, Unlock the Hidden Job Market.  Naturally, my coauthor and I would love it if you also purchased that book. But you know what? You don’t have to.)

 

 

 

More and more people are utilizing social media websites to reconnect with friends and family, get and report on real-time events, share information, and look for jobs. Whether you send tweets, update your FaceBook status, check your MySpace, or watch YouTube videos, social media is here to stay.

Digital Identity

Along with the advent of social media, the concept of your 'digital identity' has emerged.  It is the impression given on a person from the combined content on the Internet about you.  Since all of the information you (or others) post is readily accessible by nearly everyone, it is important to know exactly what is out there.. waiting to make that all-important first impression for you.

Take a moment to assess your digital identity and adjust the privacy settings that many of the social networking sites have available.  Here’s how see what is out there in cyberspace about YOU:

Jobing on Twitter

Twitter came out of nowhere to become the place to post short, targeted blurbs on pretty much any subject.  You choose people you want to “follow” (no permission required) and stay connected to.  The posts from those you are following stream to your Twitter page.  Many updates come from mobile devices, allowing for a ‘real-time’ feel. 

What’s great is that organizations and companies now utilize Twitter to disseminate information about them to followers.  This can include company news, events, and jobs.  We created a Jobing.com Twitter account and, over the last few months, it has proven to be quite successful.  I tweet (yes, I’ve finally learned how to conjugate the word Twitter) several times per day – including where the hot jobs and career events are, news on our local employment economy, where I’ll be in the city, and ways to get involved with professional organizations and networking groups. 

Follow @JobingHouston to get plugged in.  If you do not have a Twitter account, it is very simple: here’s the page to get started.

Jobing on FaceBook

Time to play catch up - if you're don't have a FaceBook page, you should (even my mother does!).  FaceBook is becoming the preeminent social networking site – a place to find long lost friends, share photos, post your thoughts, share links, and so much more.

We recently launched the Jobing Houston “Fan” page.  Once you become a fan of Jobing Houston, you’ll periodically receive updates from us – job search tip of the week, exciting career opportunities, articles to help in your search, events happening around town, etc.  I encourage you to comment on my posts - let's make it a conversation.

The Time is Now

The social media revolution is here – don’t get left behind.  If you are looking for a new career, opportunities to network, ask me questions, or get advice on your job search, keep up with Jobing.com on Twitter and FaceBook.

I’m looking forward to seeing you there…

Looking for real job opportunities for Hispanic and bilingual professionals?

Employers, are you looking to tap into this rich talent pool?

The Houston chapter of the National Hispanic Professional Organization (NHPO) is delivering the best solutions to help you find the right employers here in Houston. The 2009 NHPO Career & Business Expo gives you a unique opportunity to meet face to face with employers seeking Hispanics and bilingual professionals. The event will be held Tuesday, November 12, 2009 from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Ripley House, 4410 Navigation, Houston TX 77011. This event includes two workshops for job seekers --presented by Jobing.com, and it ends with a two-hour mixer, hosted by NHPO, where you can network with employers and other professionals to increase your job seeking opportunities. The goal of the NHPO Career and Business Expo is to provide a unique opportunity to learn about the resources for employment with public and private organizations in Houston and surrounding areas. 50 employers are expected at this event.  Jobing.com's Fritz Lawson and Peter Difilippantonio will present workshops at the event. Bring plenty of resumes! The 2009 NHPO Career & Business Expo is on November 12, from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Ripley House 4410 Navigation Ave Houston, TX 77011.

Booth space is still available!

For additional information, please visit www.NHPOexpo.us, contact Jorge
Maisonet or Daysla Cancel at events@mizonettcompanies.com or 713-225-1668

Do you work with global HR in either a large or small capacity?  Whether you work as a generalist, in global tax, compensation, benefits, finance, or manage international assignments you must attend Texas State Council’s “Global HR: Survival of the Fittest” Global HR Conference in Houston on January 14th , 2010 at the DoubleTree Hotel at Houston Intercontinental Airport. Attendees will have a chance to learn from experienced HR practitioners, attend an engaging keynote presentation and network with peers.  The conference is designed for all size companies that deal with questions regarding hiring foreign nationals or sending employees to work in other countries for short-term or long- term projects. 

Many attendees will have responsibilities for HR outside of the US , requiring knowledge of HR functions in several countries. Their challenges and concerns vary from one corporation to another.  Some are concerned with the concept of "Think Global, Act Local", while others are more concerned with other countries employment practices and cultural differences. No matter which of these areas are of greatest focus for the prospective attendee, their organizations must develop globally experienced employees trained to take advantage of expanding global markets.
 
There will be something for everyone at the "Global HR: Survival of The Fittest" conference so plan to attend and register now at www.tscglobalconference.org

For updates, follow the Texas State Council of SHRM on Twitter @TXStateCouncil

During the course of a given week or month, I speak and meet with employers of all different sizes and types.  While they differ in numerous ways - size, industry, product suite, locations, etc - they all have one thing in common: they have people working for them.  And those employees have something in common as well: they are just aching to quit.

That's right - a sizable chunk of your employees are showing up to work every day, doing their jobs, then going home and polishing up their resume, connecting with friends, clients (your clients), and other contacts to figure out the best time and method of making their exit.  Many are going to school at night or online in order to set themselves up for their departure from your organization.

Why?  It's pretty simple - they've been held hostage by the economy.  We've seen turnover rates drop to record lows over the last two years.  Every organization has a natural or "normal" turnover rate; it's just different from company to company.  And the chances are that your current turnover rate is less than half what it was just two years ago.  That's a dream scenario for owners, managers, and HR professionals, but it represents a potential nightmare for employees.

Look back at my previous blog about the lessons I've learned in the past nine years here at Jobing.com and you'll see why.  Many of your employees get up and come to work because they must.  That is, they need to eat and working for you is better than whatever else is available out there right now - or unemployment.  So they show up dutifully, do their jobs well, and go home to wait it out.

More specifically answering the "why do my people want to quit?" question is this: there are always people in your organization who want to leave but, in today's economy, they have nowhere to go but the unemployment office.  So the ones who would normally leave are staying...at least until they can find the bigger, better deal.  Then they will be gone.

I present you with this statistic from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): the "quit rate" - that is, the number of people voluntarily resigning their positions - has dropped by nearly 30% in the year from August 2008 to August 2009, from 1.8% per month to 1.3% per month.  Measure that against the quit rate in 2005 through 2007 (about 2.2% per month) and you get a 41% decrease in the raw number of voluntary resignations. 

That means if you had an average turnover rate of 23.4% (the average across all industries in 2006) then your turn rate is now less than 10% - a very favorable condition for an employer.  But that also means that over half the people who normally would have left are sticking around. 

That may or may not be good for your company, but for the sake of this blog, I will argue specifically that the possibility of mass exodus of top talent when things improve is more dangerous than the risk of keeping a few "wrong people" on the payroll today.  That's an entirely different blog, as is the "but I only keep them on because I need someone to do the work or I'd fire them" blog.

To put this all in raw numbers, if you employ 50 people and have an average turnover of 23.4%, you generally lose/replace 12 people a year voluntarily.  It's been two years, so you would have lost 24 people by now (in a "normal" world).  If this economic mess starts to clear up - and there are growing indications that it already is - you could be in a world of hurt with nearly HALF your workforce walking at the first chance they get.  Even if you only had a 5% turnover rate, you would have lost 6 people by now...and that's over 10% of your total headcount - still a potentially devastating number if you're already bare-bones like many companies are these days!

So what is an employer to do about it?  Here are a few ideas for you:

1) Start by identifying those you definitely wish to keep for the long term and make sure you connect and communicate with them regularly.  Find out where they are at, what they want and need, and do your best to meet those needs as an employer within the constraints of your resources. (Disclaimer: this is not to say you shouldn't be doing this with ALL your employees ALL the time.  I'm merely suggesting that you take protecting your top talent seriously and make it a priority.)

2) Consider soliciting and accepting genuine feedback from employees.  An anonymous survey including questions/statements like "I intend to stay here for the next 5 or more years" will give you a nice gauge.

3) Make sure you are treating ALL your employees with respect and creating a fun, challenging place to work.  "Fun" doesn't have to mean all play and no work.  However, studies show that putting a little effort into engaging your employees yields exponential results in the turnover and productivity realms. 

4) Make sure all your efforts are genuine.  If you've been an ogre of a boss for the last 18 months (privately laughing to yourself as you look at the P&L and thinking "AWESOME! Payroll costs haven't grown in almost 2 years!"), an all-of-a-sudden effort at employee engagement and retention will be seen as insincere and, most likely, will fail.

5) Begin to build a pipeline of potential replacements.  Yep, I said it.  Now is the time to re-start your recruiting machine.  While I will reserve the bulk of my reasoning for another article, I will share this:  talent has been so plentiful, at such depressed rates for so long that once the rush for talent starts there will be a talent vacuum unlike anything seen in decades.  Be prepared for it, because regardless of the efforts you make now, you will surely lose some of the "a" players you kept through this recession, and you will need to replace them before everyone else scoops up the best talent.  I know of a great, cost-effective recruiting resource if you are interested. 

I will leave you with the answer to a very important question that I am sure many of you have asked: "Why should I care about this?"  The answer is simple: economics and profitability.  Turnover is expensive, disruptive, generally unproductive, and often demoralizing.  Again, while I could (and do) argue that certain types and amounts of turnover are good for your organization, the turnover I'm referring to here is the mass loss of talented employees who have felt hostage to their jobs for the past two years.

All companies are built on human capital - people.  Without people, your business is nothing but a storefront with some product on shelves, a truck parked in a lot, or a website that never gets updated and eventually crashes.  Make sure you invest the proper resources so when the tide shifts - and it will - your best talent doesn't desert you en masse when you need it most.

Do you feel like you need to be an archeological scholar to understand text messages that look like Egyptian hieroglyphics? Hopefully Instant Messages and Text Messaging will not replace Spanish and French as the second language course of choice. But parents with children (is there another kind) and those who have friends that type more than they talk, take heart. Our studies have a produced a tutorial to help interpret your kids early warning systems (pir-parents in the room) or when reading friends emails seem like breaking CIA codes.

 

Here is a cheat sheet for your fingers to help you appear to be on top of today’s techno language.

 

AWD: away from desk
AYT: are you there
BBL: be back later
BFN: bye for now
BG: big grin
BRB: be right back
CUL: see you later
CYRMA: call your Mother
DK: don't know
EM?: excuse me?
EMA: email address
F2F: face to face
FYEO: for your eyes only
GAL: get a life
GBH: great big hug
GIGH giggling hysterically
GL: good luck
GMO: gross me out
GMTA: great minds think alike
H&K hugs and kisses
ILU: I love you
IMHO: in my humble opinion
IMS: I am sorry
IRL: in real life
JK: just kidding
JW: just wondering
K: okay
KKHH: kiss kiss hug hug
KPC: keeping parents clueless
LMAO: laughing my a** off
LOL: laughing out loud, or lots of love
LUF: love you forever
NP: no problem
NW: no way
OF: old fart
OMG: oh my God
PIR: parent in room
PITA: pain in the a**
PRW: parents are watching
QT: cutie
RME: rolling my eyes
ROFL: rolling on floor laughing
RUOK: are you OK?
SO: significant other
TBH: to be honest
TMI: too much information
WEG: wicked evil grin
WU: what's up?
YT?: you there?

 

Send us any that we’ve missed and we’ll add it to the dictionary. THX 4 UR HELP!

I’ve been one to blog about starting your own business while you have a job or need a job. It’s a soul searching of your talents. You have talents, natural gifts you were born with. You may have ignored them all your life until one day they explode out of you. You can’t run! You can’t hide! You must follow your talents and give it a try. Yep, and that’s what I’m doing. My career has been working with numbers; bookkeeping, accounting, payroll, taxes. Ok, yawn when I say that but just remember as long as businesses are required to file tax returns, they need a numbers person. Ha! And now I am to the point I want to share my passion teaching others. Do you have an exceptional skill at something? Is it needed? Yes? I’ll share my marketing on a shoe string method with you. It’s not running with the big boys but always remember that little pigs get fat and hogs get slaughtered (a blog for another time, just bare with me). I live in a community that has a monthly newsletter. For $50 I can have a flyer I designed and printed included in the newsletter and delivered to 650 homes. First reach to my neighbors and my community. I asked my church if I could use a room to hold workshops. Yep, at no charge (but I will be faithful and tithe). Second reach to my friends and family. Then the Yellow pages and Internet provides unlimited information. Yes fax numbers that I can fax flyers to! Third reach delusional maybe a stalker. By now you’re laughing at the primitive style of my advertising. Maybe, maybe not. What I am saying is it doesn’t cost much to advertise yourself in your community. All you have to do is take that first step. Believe in yourself. Connect with your community. Connect with family and friends. Small steps lead to big leaps. I’ll let you know how my marketing on a shoe string method turns out.

http://pampruitt.homestead.com/

I can’t stop thinking about her….and my wife understands.

We had just returned from a trip to the Phoenician Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona for a much needed getaway weekend. For weeks we had run from one project to another at the office, the most recent a company party hosted at our house where we served 250 lbs of boiled crawfish (I’m a Cajun boy from south Louisiana) and entertained about 50 people. Needless to say we were totally spent and our weekend was much needed.

We talked about Emily all weekend….. 

The facilities were impressive, the grounds immaculate, the food exceptional, but we talked about Emily all weekend…..

 

Emily Cortez was charged with taking care of our room, not exactly what some would consider the most high profile position at the hotel. When she came to our room the first morning, within minutes you could easily tell that her heart was in her work. It was very important to her that she had prepared the room properly for us, that our needs were fulfilled and expectations exceeded. As my wife and I are both highly allergic to feathers and down, we always call ahead to request that any down pillows or comforters would be removed from the room before we check in. Even though we have done this countless times, I have always been amazed that never (not ONCE) had those accommodations been taken care of.

 

Emily was different. It was not only important to her that our request was taken care of, that we were cared for, not just have our room cleaned. She went to great length to explain to my wife how she was able to get the glass shower door to shine and sparkle, which is no easy task. There was even an offer to help us find the cleaning supplies she used, even to the extent of volunteering to stop off on the way to work and pick some up for us. The pride she took in how well she did her work was evident. We found ourselves looking for her as we walked in and out of our room, hoping for another opportunity to get infused with her vibrancy, her joy.

  

 

How many times do we get caught up in our daily frustrations, in the interruptions, griping about the sometime mundane tasks that must be done but give back minimal satisfaction? Do we lose sight of opportunities that are presented daily to infuse someone with a smile, a helpful hand, a moment of thanks or encouragement, the chance to express to someone that signal that they are important to you. Are we putting energy into those we interact with throughout the day or are we taking energy from them?

 

 

 

 

Was our time at the Phoenician special, memorable? Yes, for the beauty of the facility, the phenomenal food, and exceptional service. What I find amazing is that my favorite memory of our trip was a smiling face, a gentle heart. Emily made us feel special, that we were her favorite guests (as I am sure she does with all of the guests she cares for) by the small steps she takes each day, consistently and with purpose. 

 

Emily has become an important part of my memory….and my wife is glad.

 

Martha Finney's new book, Unlock the Hidden Job Market:  6 Steps to a Successful Job Search When Times Are Tough, is available online and in bookstores everywhere. Follow her on www.twitter.com/hiddenjobmarket.

Last night I received an email from a reader who had this to say:

"What if I'm not shy? What if I'm just not good at the art of shameless self-promotion and have difficulty identifying my value proposition? Then what?"

Hmmmm. Hate networking as shameless self-promotion? AND you're having trouble identifying your value proposition?  If you had one of those two problems, I'd take you at face value. But put the two of them together, and I'm hearing code for "shy."  But, whatever, call it what you want.

I think you might have missed one of the core points of my earlier post on networking shyness.  To wit: Even though you're networking to find and land a good job, if you hate networking, don't make it about yourself. Make it about discovering how you can contribute your gifts, skills and energy out there in the big wide world.

You can set the tone of how your networking activities come off. Networking is not about shameless self-promotion (unless you're a shameless self-promoting kinda guy, which evidently you're not). If you want a real, authentic, interaction with a full calendar of people who you hope will ultimately lead you to your next job, have a real, authentic interaction. You're out there trying to figure out how and where you fit in. If anyone criticizes you for that, well, that's their problem. Move along to the next appointment on your calendar.

Moving to your next issue about not knowing what your value proposition is, that's not an issue to take lightly. It goes straight to one of the main pieces of your place in the world. And with the marketplace changing as rapidly as it is, it's practically impossible to keep up with how your place in the world changes in relation to the world itself.  I think three generations of working adults are going through a mid-life crisis at the same time, right now.

The good news here, for you especially, is that if you're struggling with "who am I" questions, you're going to come off authentically humble in networking meetings. So instead of worrying about "shamelessly" promoting a self when you don't even know who that self is (at least vis a vis your working life), approach your networking from the point of view of gathering data about how you might fit into the changed world now.

Use your early networking meetings to ask questions. And be sincerely interested in the answers. Then ask more questions. And be sincerely interested in those answers. (Remember, we're talking questions about work, not "how're the kids?")  Eventually you'll start seeing how you fit into the world as you're coming to understand it because of those questions. And your value proposition will make itself known to you.

It's about questioning, not crowing.

(There are a lot of books out there that help you discover what your value proposition is. If you'd like to read a collection of inspiring stories of people on that journey, email me and I'll send you a free copy of my book Find Your Calling, Love Your Life.)

The 2009 HR Southwest Conference has been an exciting event this week with great keynote speakers and fantastic breakout sessions.  With this year’s theme, “HR Rocks!” our community of Texas HR Professionals are wrapping up the conference with not only new concepts and ideas to build upon but also with great solutions that can be implemented effectively in our workplaces.

The pre-conference sessions on Tuesday were jam packed with HRCI credits to get the conference rolling.  We had engaging breakout sessions from the “The ‘Cutting Edge’ Employment Law Update” and “A Slice of Life” with over 6 credits in the morning sessions, to “How to be Ready for the IRS” and “Why Did We Hire That Guy” in the afternoon.  And of course, they held the PHR/SPHR Study Crash Course along with two other full-day pre-conference sessions.  Tuesday evening was followed up with a celebration at the “Rockin’ Around the Jukebox” reception that encouraged attendees and exhibitors to network and enjoy yummy treats.

Kicking off the general conference on Wednesday was opening keynote, Victoria Labalme, with her entertaining presentation of “Crazy, Busy, Nuts: Getting off the Conveyor Belt of Life” that provided practical advice to help us to manage the many responsibilities, and sometimes bit chaotic, aspects of our lives.  The day continued with her book signing in the bookstore, the grand opening of the Exhibit Hall and many educational sessions throughout the day.  Wednesday evening attendees enjoyed a night out in Sundance Square and the restaurants and fun the area has to offer. 

Keynote Mike Rayburn sparked our Thursday with the engaging question of ‘What If and Why Not?” as he kicked off the second morning of the conference.  Thursday was a wrap up in the Exhibitor Hall with great vendors such as O.C. Tanner, Zerorisk HR, HRSmart, TrainUp.com, Jobing.com, TheMIGroup and Outplacing.com just to name a few of the many vendors that exhibited at this year’s conference.  The SHRM Shack was also located in the exhibit hall and a great place for HR Professionals to learn about the Texas State Council, SHRM and the 37 SHRM chapters across Texas. Check out the "rockin" time they had in the SHRM Shack and if you had your picture taken you can find it here. The day concluded with a fun and relaxing “Disco Fever” reception for all attendees to enjoy!

Closing out the HR Southwest Conference on Friday morning will be keynote “The Fonz”, a.k.a Henry Winkler as he provides insights from an expert on a life richly lived.  If you did not get an opportunity to join us this year at the HR Southwest  Conference, be sure to mark your calendar to attend next year’s 2010 conference, October 10th – 13th “ Super Heroes of HR”  for another great conference!

Want a lesson on current IM lingo or want to know what your kids are texting about you? Try this on- “Oh my gosh, what’ up with your face to face, too much information?”*

 

As I meet more young adults trying to break into corporate America, I have recently been reflecting on my own personal experiences transforming from the college being into a professional, young adult. I have replaced my college t-shirt and jeans uniform with a professional suit.  Looking back at my drastic transformation, I have noticed several things that I did back then that now make me cringe. These mistakes I now see are becoming trends.  From casual appearance to casual conversations, young adults and sometimes people of all ages need to transition from Collegiate to Corporate to kick open career doors.

 

            It is how you look that counts, unfortunately.  What you wear and how you present yourself gives off the first impression.  The first step to breaking free from the college stereotype is getting someone to take you seriously.  How can that be if you show up to your interview in something less than professional? Is your definition of corporate attire constricting your amazing personality, individualism and creativity? My suggestion is to sit in your closet and get a grip. You are trapped by your need to showcase who you are through clothing.  Your appearance is the first impression and can also be the last.  Sometimes, we can not get the short skirt, facial bling, or t-shirts with beer slogans out of our minds long enough to take in who you truly are. The question before you walk out the door…are you trying to impress the interviewer or yourself.

 

            The Power of the Pen….LOL.To be taken seriously you need to give off the aura that you are serious.  Sending cover letters, thank you notes and emails using short-hand text lingo does not give off that impression. The person considering you for a job needs to know that you are capable and can communicate with individuals on all levels.  Sending an email instead of a hand-written thank you is modern enough but when you fill that email with verbiage such as “thnk u 4 ur time. I am interested n ur company,” you are not actually showing interest. You are showing that you may not have what it takes.

 

            Open mouth, insert foot? Social networking is an art that young adults have mastered.  I recently interviewed someone however who told me that she has been having a hard time getting a job because her language is “rough” and she “talks like a sailor.” She blamed this on the fact that she is straight out of college and has been working only in restaurants for years to support herself during school. This raised on automatic red flag to me as the employer. Her candor was appreciated but it did little to sell me on her capability to express herself in a corporate environment. Instead of making excuses she would have been better off burning energy on thinking before speaking.  Today’s technologically infused society thinks and speaks in sound bites.  All it takes is one comment that was not thoroughly thought through to infuse doubt in your interviewer’s mind.

 

            Social Networking Sites…TMI?  To me, cleaning up your Facebook page should be common sense.  Recently, several employers have implemented clauses into their handbooks requiring their employees to have professional Facebook pages.  Posting pictures of your wild weekend at Padre Island will not make a good impression to potential employers.

 

            Overall, when preparing to start the process of applying and interviewing in corporate America, you need to remember to be corporate.  This should expand into your appearance, communication styles and overall demeanor.  The competition is high and employers are looking for the “perfect fit.”  Don’t take yourself out of the running by using emoticons, wearing non-professional attire and sharing all your secrets. Let employers know from the start that you are taking this opportunity seriously.

The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (HHCC) has been honored with the 2009 National Large Hispanic Chamber of the Year Award by the U.S. Hispanic Chamber organization.

The HHCC was awarded for outstanding regional leadership and growth over the past year at this year’s U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s 30th Annual National Convention & Business Expo in Denver on September 19th.

“This is a significant milestone for us,” said HHCC President and CEO, Dr. Laura Murillo. “To be recognized as the ‘National Large Hispanic Chamber of the Year’ means that we are successfully cultivating the Hispanic business community and having a positive impact on the region’s economic development.” 

Over the past year, the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has experienced substantial growth, including increased membership – which has risen from 500 to approximately 3,000 members. Additionally, corporate sponsorships have increased six times over compared to previous years and has increased its staff from three to 12 full-time employees. 

“We are proud of the award because it is a symbol of our success and dedication to ensuring a prosperous future for our city,” said Dr. Murillo.

Jobing.com is a proud partner of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.  Congratulations to all of our friends at the HHCC!

Market definition of state of the economy depending on your situation

Depression      you are someone who has been laid off

Recession        afraid it might happen

Sluggish          cut the summer vacation from a week in the Caymans to a weekend in    Galveston at the San Luis Hotel

All three definitions are a reality in Houston. So as managers, employers or business owners what is the most important thing that we can do right now to navigate this economic corner we are trying to turn? While interviewing one of our local business leaders about current strategies, he commented “waiting to see what happens is not a strategy I ever studied in grad school. I need to make sure I’m positioned where I want to be with the resources I have and the resources I will need”.

This drives to the heart of navigating today’s market condition with the teams we need intact and ready for the economic rebound that is finally in the horizon. Unemployment figures for Houston are maintaining levels below National averages (see enclosed local unemployment report). Now is the time to make sure you have carefully evaluated a process for building and maintaining high performance teams.

RETAINING YOUR KEY TALENT. Yes the media continues to harp on the dire shape of the economy, convinced we are a step away from Economic Armageddon. The greatest loss we could be faced with is not having to lay someone off but rather losing one of the key members of our team. While cutbacks hurt morale and are difficult to manage, usually this does not affect the better performers but rather the bottom quartile of our operations. Many companies today are relying on a false sense of security caused by the misconception that since there are not many jobs today it is difficult for their better people to make a move. Today’s market is not as robust as it was three or four quarters ago but jobs do exist for highly skilled accounting, office administration, IT and engineering professionals. We can not let the challenges caused by decreased sales or budget constraints draw our attention away from anchoring our best people. So, to increase what I call CONNECTIVITY,  here are 5 check points to consider:

Strengthen communication-one of the greatest causes of turnover is the disconnect between employee and the job. Notice I did not say the manager or boss. Today’s workforce wants to understand 2 things: what is expected of me in this role and why does it matter.  The more time we invest in helping people see their roles from the eyes of management, the customer or both the greater chance there is in meeting expectations or better yet, surpassing them.

Assign special projects-special projects right now generate energy in the office and break the norm. By getting our focus on to improving work flow, generating special studies and reports there is an increased sense of contribution to the group and a strong sense of importance.

Performance evaluations-don’t wait for the annual review to meet with the team and discuss how they are performing. The uncertainty you might be trying to handle is an emotion all of your employees are also wrestling with. They watch television, surf the net and are filled with the same anxiety we are. There is a great possibility that if they are not part of the management team it affects them even more so. Doubt and worry get magnified by any obstacle or shortfall the company might experience inflamed by constant droning of the perilous times being reported. Short term performance evaluations offers time for affirmation and redirection which could actually increase performance levels.

Compensation expectations-don’t steer away from discussions on compensation adjustments. If increases can be awarded, let them know. If not, spell out the situation you are managing, their role in the success and what you hope to do in the future. Promise to readdress the issue in a prescribed period of time. The state of unknown causes more harm than the uncertainty of speculation.

Connect personally-The more someone knows about us, the more we feel connected to them, not the reverse. In the heat of battle we sometimes don’t slow down to get to know our team as well as we would like. If we want to retain our top talent, it is critical for us to invest time in finding out more about them personally as well as the professional goals they have. A few minutes each week becomes glue and sends a signal that you care.

Connectivity is not a place we strive for as managers; it is an action word requiring proactive steps and forethought. Now is the time to anchor our teams to be the base from which we will build. Don’t let your guard down and be caught blind-sided by losing someone important in which you have invested time and financial resources.

Mike Lejeune, CPC, CTS, CERS is the Executive Vice President of Steverson Staffing. With 30 years of experience in the Staffing industry he has been published in national trade journals as well as co-author of the Texas Association of Personnel Consultants Training and Accreditation Program. Mike recently completed the National Association of Personnel Services certification program on employee retention (Certified Employee Retention Specialist). He has helped to build high performance teams and customized leadership, retention and selection strategy initiatives for clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to rapidly expanding business enterprises.