5/27/09

Greetings!

I have been reading about professionals that have "dumb ed down" their resumes and are targeting lower level opportunities. Is this a good strategy? It depends. If you're in your 30's or perhaps early 40's, maybe, as you have "enough time on the clock" left to recover. If you've been looking for some time and resources have expired, any port in the storm will do. If you are beginning your job search, if you are in your final decade before retirement, it is wise to think twice. Looking at this from another perspective, employers may be reluctant to hire, as their thinking would go something like this...that as soon as the highly skilled, dumb-ed down professional finds a better opportunity when the economy improves, they will not continue their employment with that company. I look at it like this...why should I discount all the time and effort that I have put into acquiring an education and certification only to fail to leverage on these positives for a better lot in life.

There is no compassion for the hard working! I spent some time at the Public Aid office. Most of the people that they give assistance to are young, unwed mothers. These people and their significant others get rewarded for their mistakes. The other issue is that the financial standards that Public Aid uses to access eligibility are so antiquated that most of us with some income stream will not qualify. It is sad what this nation has come to.

When we are working, it's like we are enjoying a nice warm bubble bath. Most of us are oblivious to change at this time, even if it is not for the better. Warning signs such as co-workers getting laid off may be present, but as we focus on our day to day lives, it's easy to forget the big picture. Then one day, someone drains the water on our bubble bath and we are left with an icy chill and plenty of regret for our inaction. Some of the regret comes from ingrained tapes that we repeatedly heard from our parents and teachers...DON'T QUIT! There are times in our lives when we need to create new tapes based on new business models.

Till next time, pray for all of your friends, relatives and former co-workers who are in need of gainful work with dignity.

God Bless,

Bill Mokrzycki