Hello there -- I am gainfully employed, have been for 3 months, and I feel like I really lucked out with this job! I haven't been updating this blog, since I HAVE a job, but recently, people have been mentioning to me that they actually found this blog INSPIRING!
That's quite a compliment. The first time someone mentioned that to me, I didn't think too much of it -- I mean, I was appreciative. But I figured it was a one-off. However, when the comments kept being made (not by just that one person!) I started to wonder how many other people felt that way.
So, it might be amazingly arrogant of me to think that people might find this blog useful, but hey -- some people already have, so I figured I would update it.
This is going to be a rather stream-of-consciousness post, as I woke up feeling inspired (oh, and I had a dream about an old friend I haven't seen in a long time, and that was nice, too!)
Topic? Let's see... the Top Three Things That Come To Mind Right Now Regarding Your Job Search:
1. Give up on the idea of your dream job.
Whoa. That sounds harsh -- give up on your dreams? Well... yes... er... no. If you HAVE a dream, go for it, full-throttle. However, if you're not quite sure what it is, exactly, that you were put here to do, you're probably open to a lot of different kinds of jobs. If that's the case, you're probably capable of being fulfilled (and, conversely, disappointed) by a variety of different jobs. So, check out Positive Psychology and figure out what spins your propeller -- and then make that happen in any job you have or get!
To put it another way, "giving up on your dream job" also means not fantasizing about what it would be like to work at a specific company or in a certain city/state/country. So you applied for a job at Google, and then you start thinking about how you could bring your dog to work, and drop off your dry cleaning in the morning, and they give you free vegan pulled pork sandwiches on Mondays, and on and on and on... your start fantasizing about how wonderful it would be if only you got that job... and then you don't get it (or worse, you never hear back from Google), and then you're crushed.
Well, there is only so long this can continue. Not to be negative about it, but give up on your hopes, enthusiasm, and excitement for a job you only applied for: you don't have it yet, and spending time looking at rental prices in that area is a waste of time.
On a side, but related, note: I have studied in Mexico and Italy, and I have lived in Ecuador, Germany, and Northern Ireland. While it sounds romantic, and it is amazingly life-changing and profound to live and work abroad, at the end of the day, you get up, go to work, and then go home just to do it all again the next day. All this is to say that you don't have to go abroad (or to another state, or another coast) to experience life. It can help sometimes, but really, you're not missing that much by sticking around your hometown.
Finally, in the words of some Zen master whose name I forget, "If you can't find the truth right where you are, where else do you expect to find it?"
2. A dream without a plan is just a wish...
Okay, it's true, I just said to give up on your dreams. But what #2 means is that it's not good enough to just wish that you had a job/had a better job. You gotta get off your duff and do something about it. (Actually, in today's world, you might have to actually sit down on your duff and get working, but you get my meaning.)
If working on a computer is too distracting, turn off the Internets. Set a goal: mine was one application a day. Granted, I didn't always hit that goal, but I made up for it on other days when I did two or three applications in one day.
3. Make a list of reasons why you are awesome...
Applying for jobs (and the subsequent rejections) is amazingly depressing; I often wonder if one of the reasons why people don't leave bad relationships/jobs/apartments is because the process of finding a new one is often so horrible. Regardless, if you're looking for a new job (and actually applying for positions) your ego is about to take a huge hit. So, if you have a list of Reasons Why Your Are Awesome to review from time to time, kinda like your own life's version of a Greatest Hits album, it's gonna boost your ego. Also, if you review it regularly, you'll start to memorize it and have plenty of "golden moments" to share during/work into an interview. Bonus!
So -- get out there and get that better job!
Monday, September 3, 2012
Monday, May 7, 2012
Prison
I am eligible to teach in a federal prison, but was not among the eligibles selected to move on. I'm not sure "eligible" is a noun, but i suppose one can wordify anything one wants.
Saturday, May 5, 2012
Nope
Job# 13502 - Student Services Advisor 3 #13502 (Job Code 4575U - Student Services Advisor 3) in the School of Public Health department.
Friday, May 4, 2012
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
passing up an interview
I was just offered a final interview for the 50% position. I hemmed and hawed, but ultimately, it's a bad match: I don't need 50%, I need 100%! I said no thanks.
Nope
Thank you again for your interest in applying for the position of Customer Service Specialist at Mills College. We appreciate the time, energy and effort involved in your application for this position. However, we regret to inform you that we are unable to pursue your candidacy further on this occasion.
Interview at los medanos cc
Interview was fine, but this is a 50% position at 50% benefits. Not exactly what I am looking for, but I figured i should at least talk to them-- you never know if they will have another opening in mind that you're a good match for.
Interview with Stanford
Just a first round, but I think it went well. Cool job, working with undergrads who are doing research. Hope they call me back!
Legal temp
A friend of mine suggested that i get in touch with a legal temp agency in order to get some experience in the field. Brilliant! I set up a meeting with them after work and things went very well: i have a feeling that during the breaks between semesters, I'll be able to make a little money and get some experience. Thanks, T!
Job 227
Program Assistant IV, ESL and Intensive English Programs position at the University of San Francisco.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
job 221: operations assistant @ ucsc extension
this would be great -- it's at uc santa cruz's extension in santa clara. sign me up!
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
update: major rejection
"Thank you for your interest in University of Phoenix. We have received your application for the associate faculty position. Unfortunately we are not able to extend an invitation for you to move forward in the hiring process at this time. Please know that your excellent qualifications were thoroughly considered against the needs of the position."
The worst part: it was a pool. As in, a group of people that we might ask to teach for us at some vague point in the future. Ouch.
The worst part: it was a pool. As in, a group of people that we might ask to teach for us at some vague point in the future. Ouch.
update: program assistant at usf social justice dept
nope. quick turnaround time, though! one day?! I wish all HR departments were that fast! course... makes you wonder why the job was still posted, if it had already been filled...
job 214: program associate @ stanford
THis is a cool job -- it requires the lucky winner to coordinate and facilitate the arts in dorms and with undergrads. Sounds great to me! I decided that since it was all about the arts, I might as well go all out and cite a Stanford professor in the cover letter, and I did -- I referenced Eavan Boland's "That the science of cartography is limited."
Oh, and I also emailed her a copy of it!
Here's to hoping!
Oh, and I also emailed her a copy of it!
Here's to hoping!
Monday, April 16, 2012
job 212: Public Information Officer for Science, Stanford News Service
I was excited about this position just reading about it!
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Saturday, April 14, 2012
job 203: security guard @ camp parks
"this job requires excessive standing, for 12 hours at a time."
perfect. I love standing.
perfect. I love standing.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Thursday, April 12, 2012
they want me! they really want me!
Got a call from a recruiter for a position that pays 13 bucks an hour. Tempting, but not exactly what I am looking for.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
job 201: administrative assistant @ driscoll's
Driscoll's produces berries. I love berries. Put me to work!
Monday, April 9, 2012
job 200: Program Assistant IV, Graduate Admissions and Asian Studies @ university of san francisco
What a milestone! I am up to job #200! Of course, I am not sure that this really is such a wonderful milestone, since what I'd really like is to simply land something full-time with benefits, and I feel like I've been treading water for a while now. But still -- "200" is a milestone, and darnit, I'm going to celebrate it, despite the fact that, there are certainly strong arguments to be made that it's actually quite pathetic.
But here's what I am going to celebrate:
1. I've stuck with this Pandora Approach plan through 200 job applications now! That is impressive in a certain sense... kinda like the artist who nails 1,000 bags of dirt to the wall. A bag of dirt is just a bag of dirt. But 1,000 bags of dirt? That's something. And so I can take some small degree of pleasure in the fact that despite the repeated negativity of being rejected time and time and time again, I ain't giving up. (I know, I wrote, "ain't." That's to indicate my toughness and doggedness.")
2. I also want to celebrate all those who have been so supportive of this humiliating quest; from comments, to suggestions, to resume revisions, to lending me job hunting books, to asking around on my behalf, and more, I am deeply and profoundly appreciative of all that support. Thank you.
3. I am going to celebrate the THREE call-backs/interviews I have gone through so far. I 1.5% phone call/interview success rate is not particularly impressive, but I'll take what I can get. One was a solar power company that wanted me to do sales. But after talking to the guy, I realized that this was NOT a good fit -- for them or me. Panera sounded promising, but I don't think I can raise a family on $22,000/year. And finally, the after-school program -- it's not much money, but it is good benefits. So that's something to consider. Of course, they're still reviewing candidates, but I had two interviews with them -- that's a good sign, right?!
And so, it is with a celebratory attitude that I announce my 200th job application since starting this blog. "Program Assistant IV" doesn't sound like a sexy title, but you know what? The University of San Francisco does good work, pays a good wage, offers excellent benefits, and a job there would allow me to pursue a doctorate in Education or go to law school and work to further human rights around the world. If I were lucky enough to land this position, I would be over the moon! So here's to hoping, and here's to you, dear reader, who has been so supportive, and here's to you, job seeker, if you and I have that in common: don't give up!
Finally, this: Thank you.
But here's what I am going to celebrate:
1. I've stuck with this Pandora Approach plan through 200 job applications now! That is impressive in a certain sense... kinda like the artist who nails 1,000 bags of dirt to the wall. A bag of dirt is just a bag of dirt. But 1,000 bags of dirt? That's something. And so I can take some small degree of pleasure in the fact that despite the repeated negativity of being rejected time and time and time again, I ain't giving up. (I know, I wrote, "ain't." That's to indicate my toughness and doggedness.")
2. I also want to celebrate all those who have been so supportive of this humiliating quest; from comments, to suggestions, to resume revisions, to lending me job hunting books, to asking around on my behalf, and more, I am deeply and profoundly appreciative of all that support. Thank you.
3. I am going to celebrate the THREE call-backs/interviews I have gone through so far. I 1.5% phone call/interview success rate is not particularly impressive, but I'll take what I can get. One was a solar power company that wanted me to do sales. But after talking to the guy, I realized that this was NOT a good fit -- for them or me. Panera sounded promising, but I don't think I can raise a family on $22,000/year. And finally, the after-school program -- it's not much money, but it is good benefits. So that's something to consider. Of course, they're still reviewing candidates, but I had two interviews with them -- that's a good sign, right?!
And so, it is with a celebratory attitude that I announce my 200th job application since starting this blog. "Program Assistant IV" doesn't sound like a sexy title, but you know what? The University of San Francisco does good work, pays a good wage, offers excellent benefits, and a job there would allow me to pursue a doctorate in Education or go to law school and work to further human rights around the world. If I were lucky enough to land this position, I would be over the moon! So here's to hoping, and here's to you, dear reader, who has been so supportive, and here's to you, job seeker, if you and I have that in common: don't give up!
Finally, this: Thank you.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
job 198: writer/editor @ us navy
This is perfect. It's even in Monterey, and I love Monterey. Here's to hoping!
job 197: administrative associate @ stanford
the division of pediatric cardiology needs an aa. that should be me!
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
job 191: graduate admissions specialist @ stanford school of electrical engineering
awesome! i love engineers!
job 189: editorial assistant @ Inkling
Okay, this job is way cool. Inkling does interactive textbooks for the iPad. Sounds pretty straightforward, but when you think about all the amazing opportunities that technology would allow, well, I'm pretty much bouncing around in my chair thinking about all that could be. This would be a great place to work -- they do good work that I both have a background in and am excited about. What more could I want?! Here's to hoping!
Monday, April 2, 2012
job 188: administrative associate @ stanford dept. of psychiatry
it's only a 50% position, but who knows -- it might turn into something full-time.
job 181: student services coordinator @ stanford
Working with students? At Stanford? Sweet! Go Cardinal! Those sisters are amazing!
Sunday, April 1, 2012
job 180: park guide @ National Park Service
Martinez. That mean's John Muir's house. I've been there. It's great. It's on an orchard. I love fruit. My kid's been there too. Ranger Daniel was outstanding -- very engaging with kids.
the job that never was
apparently to be an IRS agent, you have to have had some accounting classes. dang.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Friday, March 30, 2012
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
job 174: associate director, enrollment and recruitment @ usf
This is a long shot. But I could do it!
job 173: Instructional Laboratory Technician - Writing Center @ West Valley-Mission Community College
Developmental writing? Community college experience? yes.
just plain stupid
My application contains errors. After way too long of searching and trying to figure it out, and trying weird stuff, it appears that under "Minor" one must enter "na" if they do not have one. There aren't any instructions, you're just supposed to figure that out on your own. Sigh.
department of redundancy department
Why, oh why do organizations require you to submit a resume AND manually enter all your past work history?!?!?!?!? It makes the most sense to require a resume. It makes less sense to require all info to be entered manually. It makes NO sense to require both. Sheesh.
job 172: editorial assistant @ stanford university press
Yes! Editing! Academia! Full-time with benefits! Going to grad school for free! Yes! Hire me!
Monday, March 26, 2012
job 171: project coordinator @ reasoning mind
This could be a very cool job -- coordinating an innovative approach to teaching and learning math throughout the Bay Area. Way cool!
Friday, March 23, 2012
update on job 116: field merchandiser @ safeway
No go. I told them I loved pie, but I guess it wasn't enough.
good news!
Okay, so it's not as though I finally landed a full-time gig with benefits. But I do have good news! It's an update to one of the jobs I applied for before I started this blog. (What, you thought that I had only applied to 169 jobs?!) I made it to the next round for the position of HR specialist with the Forest Service.
If you have any experience with government jobs, it's not easy to get one -- I'm not a vet, I'm not the spouse of a vet, I'm not former Peace Corps, I'm not disabled, and I'm not a displaced person. I have zero preference. So for me, just making the first cut is huge. It's still a long way to go to actually working for the Forest Service, but it's an important step. And for someone like myself who gets rejection letters and emails on a daily basis, this is a very welcome piece of good news -- and I like it! Here's to hoping!
If you have any experience with government jobs, it's not easy to get one -- I'm not a vet, I'm not the spouse of a vet, I'm not former Peace Corps, I'm not disabled, and I'm not a displaced person. I have zero preference. So for me, just making the first cut is huge. It's still a long way to go to actually working for the Forest Service, but it's an important step. And for someone like myself who gets rejection letters and emails on a daily basis, this is a very welcome piece of good news -- and I like it! Here's to hoping!
job 168: legal assistant for a lawyer in pleasanton
yes! this could be the break I have been looking for -- the chance to work in the legal field! sign me up!
job 164: financial aid counselor @ mills college
Yes. Helping people go to college? very noble. sign me up.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
job 163: customer support specialist @ mills college
sweet. you even supervise a student assistant. excellent.
job 161: coordinator, early start program @ csueb
I like kids. I ran an after-school program. Hook me up!
update on job 4: secretary for irs
position cancelled. wtf, government?! you don't put on a condom unless... you know the rest.
update to job 133: curriculum designer @ tivo
What, were you pissed at my Janet Jackson reference? Sheesh. Denied.
update on job 160: opower
I gotta hand it to opower -- they are pretty quick on the draw. yesterday, applied. yesterday, rejected. none of this stringing you along bs. I like that.
update on job 136: night baker @ panera
I was happy to get a call for this job. But I was unhappy to learn that it's the 10 pm to 6 am shift, and it pays 11 bucks an hour. Ouch. As much as I think I actually would enjoy baking bread and making pastries, I don't think I can raise a family on that. C'est la pain.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
job 158: coordinator, international student recruitment @ sjsu
This job is out of my league. But they but they can't reject me if I don't apply, right?
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
update to some workday job
Apparently workday doesn't get a lot of people applying for multiple positions with them, because they said no. I assume they mean in response to a specific position, but it could be that they just mean "no," across the board. The email didn't make that clear. Anyway, I don't expect to be working for Workday any time soon.
Job 151: International Student Coordinator @ St. Mary's
This is the one, folks. This would be perfect for me! It's in my field and St. Mary's has all these questions about their mission, truth, and social justice. It's hard not to get too excited about this, because anything could happen, but I have a good feeling about this. And I want it. Badly!
Monday, March 19, 2012
update on job 125: marketing copywriter @ patelco
"Patelco doesn't suck! Patelco can save you a buck!"
See what they're missing out on by not hiring me? Sheesh.
See what they're missing out on by not hiring me? Sheesh.
update on job 120: copyeditor for laser beauty device
TRIA makes some groovy hand-held blemish-destroying lasers. Don't stick it in your eye. Ain't that great copy? Alas, it'll never see the light of day, since they don't want me. Moving on.
Hunger
It's been a week since I found out that I didn't get the promotion I was hoping for. Since then, i haven't been hungry. At all. I have eaten-- I know when meal times are and that it would be unhealthy to simply not eat, but the fact remains: my appetite is gone. In its place is a kind of sick feeling, like when you drink too much coffee. I am hoping that I will get over it soon.
Update to Job # ?
Ross doesn't want me as a secretary. I don't know if that email was in response to all the Ross jobs I applied for, or just one. Either way, it's a no-go.
update on job 4: secretary with IRS
The IRS has decided not to select any of the applications for this position. Including me.
A shot out to my Russian readers...
What's up, Russia! Why the heck are so many Russians interested in this blog? Is it the desperate tone? Do you know that I love Dostoyevsky? It's true, I do -- TWO Dostoyevsky books are on my list of my favorite books of all time.
They are, in no particular order:
1. Brothers Karamazov
One: Crime and Punishment
Uno: The Prophet
Eins: Siddhartha
They are, in no particular order:
1. Brothers Karamazov
One: Crime and Punishment
Uno: The Prophet
Eins: Siddhartha
Один: Faust
There you have it. What are yours?
There you have it. What are yours?
jobs 149-50: student services advisor I and III @ uc berkeley
I'm Mr. Helpful! Let me help! Hire me!
Job 148: public information specialist 2 @ uc berkeley
working with the international diploma program is right up my alley. sweet!
job 146: admission counselor @ usf
Yes! University setting. Interacting with the public. Law school! Travel! Sweet! Let's do it!
Let me eat cake.
I'm home alone looking for jobs. There are two pieces of cake left. What are the odds they will still be there by the end of the day? Slim to none, pardon the pun.
Job 145: Claims Professional Trainee - IAP @ Sedgwick
I've been told before that I could be a good Claims person. Super.
But Sedgwick! Why you gotta ask me about my degree if the first box doesn't even have EITHER of the Universities I went to, and the second box doesn't even have the field of study in which I engaged!? Tip: most places have an "other" category.
But Sedgwick! Why you gotta ask me about my degree if the first box doesn't even have EITHER of the Universities I went to, and the second box doesn't even have the field of study in which I engaged!? Tip: most places have an "other" category.
another job that never was...
The California DMV is looking for a good person in Walnut Creek. Unfortunately, I don't think they're going to be getting too many applications, since there is no way to apply for the job. D'oh!
http://jobs.spb.ca.gov/wvpos/more_info.cfm?recno=478305
http://jobs.spb.ca.gov/wvpos/more_info.cfm?recno=478305
the job that never was: exec assistant @ coca cola
Their computer system is messed up. The job's in California, but their system doesn't understand "CA," "California," or "US-CA."
job 141: clerk @ safeway
So far so good. One question: are you willing to shop at safeway and encourage your friends and family to shop at safeway?
Safeway also does something that I think is particularly smart: they have you fill out all these tax credit questions -- apparently if you hire certain categories of people, you get a tax break. This can be pretty substantial -- vets, people on food stamps, etc. -- you can see how a company would like to get a few thousand dollars back/off just for hiring the right kind of person. Unfortunately, for as smart as Safeway is to ask these kinds of questions, their computer system is about as dumb as a brick: if you are applying to just one position, no problem. But if you are applying to two? You have to fill out the questionnaire twice. Ten positions? Ten times. SFWY -- my answers are gonna be the same every time!
Safeway also does something that I think is particularly smart: they have you fill out all these tax credit questions -- apparently if you hire certain categories of people, you get a tax break. This can be pretty substantial -- vets, people on food stamps, etc. -- you can see how a company would like to get a few thousand dollars back/off just for hiring the right kind of person. Unfortunately, for as smart as Safeway is to ask these kinds of questions, their computer system is about as dumb as a brick: if you are applying to just one position, no problem. But if you are applying to two? You have to fill out the questionnaire twice. Ten positions? Ten times. SFWY -- my answers are gonna be the same every time!
job 140: military recruiter @ safeway
No, they're not militarizing your local safeway. they wanna hire vets. I like safeway. I like vets. I think it's a perfect match.
job 139: executive assist @ ross corporate
| If you are satisfied with your answers, submit now to Executive Assistant - Corporate. Yes, I will submit. |
job 138: secretarial executive @ the plus group
Yes, I want to be a Secretarial Executive. But something tells me that the title is more impressive than the actual job.
job 137: day baker @ panera
pretty much the same job as the night baker... but during the day. I still love their napa chix sammy. I guess since they have day and night bakers, that helps to explain how their bread is so fresh. yummy.
job 136: night baker @ panera
Wow. That was the most extensive application and questionnaire I have ever filled out for a food-service job. over 100 questions about your personality. wow. I do love their napa chicken sammy.
Sunday, March 18, 2012
job 134: instructor and curriculum designer at Datastax
Job Description
Do you enjoy working with others? Do you enjoy teaching? Can you distill highly technical knowledge into a simple idea that anyone can understand? Do you like to travel?
Yes, Yes, Yes, and Yes! So... Yes!
To the Passionate Chili Salesmen of the World, or "In Response to Despair."
Last week I had an initial phone interview with a solar panel / solar energy company. While the person I spoke with was pleasant enough, and I actually enjoyed talking with him and learning more about his company, one of the questions he asked really threw me for a loop: "Why are you passionate about sales?"
Well, I'm not. And most people are not. So I can understand the desire to find that certain someone who really is passionate about selling. But here's the thing: if you really do get your jollies from selling product, you're sick. There's something wrong with you. Don't get me wrong -- there are worse hobbies to enjoy. Can you imagine asking a candidate for an administrative assistant position, "Why are you passionate about being a secretary?" "Why are you passionate about being a Financial Analyst I?" How do you answer that? That it's your dream to become an Financial Analyst II? That you lack the skill and/or ambition to become the kind of person who has a secretary, and that being someone else's secretary is deeply fulfilling to you?
If you are among the lucky few who really are passionate about selling chili, I commend you and even envy your charmed and blessed life. In an ideal world, we would all do work that we found deeply fulfilling and we would all be compensated at a rate that allowed us to live a comfortable life. But this is not an ideal world, and we do have to work at jobs that are not ideal, and we get bored, and we have to deal with unpleasant co-workers, and the lettuce-pickers of the world make far less per hour than the chili salesmen of the world.
I suspect that the question, "Why are you passionate about sales?" is best answered from virtually any other perspective than existential. "Why am I passionate about sales? It's the reason why I was born, why I was put on this earth; before I discovered sales, my life was empty and meaningless, but now that I sell product, everything is illuminated; when I sell chili, I am the chili; when solar panels, I am the solar panels; when premium tweezers, I am the tweezers. Why am I passionate about sales? Why ISN'T everyone else?"
The point here is that asking someone to describe their passion for the mundane is like begging people to lie to you. Let's be honest: anyone who is applying for the job of chili salesman is not doing it out of their passion for chili; they need a job, and they're probably good at selling chili. Either that, of they have the skills it takes to sell chili well. Or they are able to find satisfaction in some aspect(s) of the selling of chili that they find fulfilling.
Which leads us to John Updike and Positive Psychology, but not necessarily in that order.
The other day I listened to a Terry Gross interview of John Updike. He was hilarious! I had never read any JU (and still have not), but I want to now. One of the points he made in response to something that I totally forget is that there was a time in history that work was the sort of activity that people did in private, like taking care of one's natural bodily functions. It was a necessary unpleasantness, and that real life took place outside of work. JU went on to explain that real life took place when people's social lives took them to Julia-Child-esque dinner parties, where you took your wife and looked at other mens' wives. This understanding of work make sense to me, and I need to find an employer that understands this, too: life may require us to engage in certain activities in order to live, strive, thrive, and survive, but that isn't what life is all about. The sale of chili is not what life is all about, and a profound interest in the buying and selling of product demonstrates misplaced priorities.
Positive Psychology: PP is concerned with, among other things, what some call "flow": when you get so into something you're working on that time seems to fly by and you forget to eat lunch. This is flow. PP says that the best that the most passionate chili salesman can hope for is to feel as though he or she is feeling the flow three to four time a day. More than that is simply not possible, and if you're experiencing the flow at a greater rate, you're either on drugs, the Dalai Lama, or schizophrenic. So how do we feel the flow and increase the frequency of our feeling of the flow? Two things to do: first, start noticing when we feel the flow. Are you doing the same kind of thing again and again when you're in the flow? Take notes, reflect on your life, and do those activities more often! Second step: take the online assessment that helps you figure out which qualities/characteristics (core strengths) you have. (Check it out here: http://www.authentichappiness.sas.upenn.edu/Default.aspx) Once you have your core strengths nailed down, work to exercise/exemplify/bring those core strengths to your daily work. From that perspective, it doesn't really matter if you are a florist or a luthier or a CEO or a dumpling maker. If one of your core strengths is "humility," you are going to be happiest when you can find ways to be humble. If one of your core strengths is "dedication," find ways to be dedicated in all that you do -- you'll be happier. And from the perspective of PP, it doesn't matter if I am an administrative assistant, or analyst I or II or chili salesman -- if I can find ways to bring humor and gratitude to my work, it's going to be fulfilling. And who doesn't want fulfilled employees?
Frankly, I'd rather have happy employees who were able to find elements of their work enjoyable rather than someone who is just going to lie to me about their lifelong passion for chili sales.
All this is to say, "Hire me."
Well, I'm not. And most people are not. So I can understand the desire to find that certain someone who really is passionate about selling. But here's the thing: if you really do get your jollies from selling product, you're sick. There's something wrong with you. Don't get me wrong -- there are worse hobbies to enjoy. Can you imagine asking a candidate for an administrative assistant position, "Why are you passionate about being a secretary?" "Why are you passionate about being a Financial Analyst I?" How do you answer that? That it's your dream to become an Financial Analyst II? That you lack the skill and/or ambition to become the kind of person who has a secretary, and that being someone else's secretary is deeply fulfilling to you?
If you are among the lucky few who really are passionate about selling chili, I commend you and even envy your charmed and blessed life. In an ideal world, we would all do work that we found deeply fulfilling and we would all be compensated at a rate that allowed us to live a comfortable life. But this is not an ideal world, and we do have to work at jobs that are not ideal, and we get bored, and we have to deal with unpleasant co-workers, and the lettuce-pickers of the world make far less per hour than the chili salesmen of the world.
I suspect that the question, "Why are you passionate about sales?" is best answered from virtually any other perspective than existential. "Why am I passionate about sales? It's the reason why I was born, why I was put on this earth; before I discovered sales, my life was empty and meaningless, but now that I sell product, everything is illuminated; when I sell chili, I am the chili; when solar panels, I am the solar panels; when premium tweezers, I am the tweezers. Why am I passionate about sales? Why ISN'T everyone else?"
The point here is that asking someone to describe their passion for the mundane is like begging people to lie to you. Let's be honest: anyone who is applying for the job of chili salesman is not doing it out of their passion for chili; they need a job, and they're probably good at selling chili. Either that, of they have the skills it takes to sell chili well. Or they are able to find satisfaction in some aspect(s) of the selling of chili that they find fulfilling.
Which leads us to John Updike and Positive Psychology, but not necessarily in that order.
The other day I listened to a Terry Gross interview of John Updike. He was hilarious! I had never read any JU (and still have not), but I want to now. One of the points he made in response to something that I totally forget is that there was a time in history that work was the sort of activity that people did in private, like taking care of one's natural bodily functions. It was a necessary unpleasantness, and that real life took place outside of work. JU went on to explain that real life took place when people's social lives took them to Julia-Child-esque dinner parties, where you took your wife and looked at other mens' wives. This understanding of work make sense to me, and I need to find an employer that understands this, too: life may require us to engage in certain activities in order to live, strive, thrive, and survive, but that isn't what life is all about. The sale of chili is not what life is all about, and a profound interest in the buying and selling of product demonstrates misplaced priorities.
Positive Psychology: PP is concerned with, among other things, what some call "flow": when you get so into something you're working on that time seems to fly by and you forget to eat lunch. This is flow. PP says that the best that the most passionate chili salesman can hope for is to feel as though he or she is feeling the flow three to four time a day. More than that is simply not possible, and if you're experiencing the flow at a greater rate, you're either on drugs, the Dalai Lama, or schizophrenic. So how do we feel the flow and increase the frequency of our feeling of the flow? Two things to do: first, start noticing when we feel the flow. Are you doing the same kind of thing again and again when you're in the flow? Take notes, reflect on your life, and do those activities more often! Second step: take the online assessment that helps you figure out which qualities/characteristics (core strengths) you have. (Check it out here: http://www.authentichappiness.sas.upenn.edu/Default.aspx) Once you have your core strengths nailed down, work to exercise/exemplify/bring those core strengths to your daily work. From that perspective, it doesn't really matter if you are a florist or a luthier or a CEO or a dumpling maker. If one of your core strengths is "humility," you are going to be happiest when you can find ways to be humble. If one of your core strengths is "dedication," find ways to be dedicated in all that you do -- you'll be happier. And from the perspective of PP, it doesn't matter if I am an administrative assistant, or analyst I or II or chili salesman -- if I can find ways to bring humor and gratitude to my work, it's going to be fulfilling. And who doesn't want fulfilled employees?
Frankly, I'd rather have happy employees who were able to find elements of their work enjoyable rather than someone who is just going to lie to me about their lifelong passion for chili sales.
All this is to say, "Hire me."
job 133: curriculum designer @ tivo
I'm cuckoo for curriculum design! And tivo -- who didn't tivo Janet Jackson's boob? When can I start?!
job 132: csr @ fremont bank
From the application:
"Please list any foreign languages in which you are fluent. Please indicate if the foreign language is written or verbal. "
Well, Spanish and German are both written and verbal. ASL is neither written nor verbal. But somehow I don't think that's what you really want to know.
"Please list any foreign languages in which you are fluent. Please indicate if the foreign language is written or verbal. "
Well, Spanish and German are both written and verbal. ASL is neither written nor verbal. But somehow I don't think that's what you really want to know.
Job 131: csr @ growing company
By "growing company" they mean a company that is growing. Not like a garden supply company. However, speaking of gardens, I did plant tomatoes and corn today. Here's to a productive summer!
job 126: administrative assistant to dd's @ ross
To dd's? I assume this does not refer to bra size.
Also, "
Also, "
| If you are satisfied with your answers, submit now to Administrative Assistant, dd's." Yes, I am ready to submit. Sign me up for submission, please. |
job 125: marketing copywriter @ patelco
I am a member. I can write. I'm funny. And succinct. Sign me up.
job 124: sales and support associate @ AAA
I have a car. I like it. I am a AAA member. I like their magazine. I like their maps. Sign me up!
Saturday, March 17, 2012
job 120: copyeditor at tria beauty
I have done copy editing, but this was a funny application for two reasons. well... perhaps "notable" is the better term. First, I know a dude who works there. Second, one of the questions they asked was as follows:
- 4.
- My current or most recent annual salary is:
job 118: software trainer at club sport
this could be cool. did you know they have a saline pool? this thing rocks. music is even piped in and you can totally hear it underwater while you're swimming.
oh, and I like hot tubs.
oh, and they supply soap and after-shave. nice.
oh, and I like hot tubs.
oh, and they supply soap and after-shave. nice.
job 110: college grad @ workday
yes, the really are advertising for a "college grad." as a college grade, I feel extremely qualified for the position of "college grad." where do I sign?
Jobs 94-105: Various positions at Workday
Workday is based right here in Pleasanton! So hire me!
| Position Title | Location |
| Application Support Analyst - Technical - 2nd Shift | (HQ) Pleasanton, CA |
| Associate Consultant, Solution Center | (HQ) Pleasanton, CA |
| Business Analyst | (HQ) Pleasanton, CA |
| College Recruiter | (HQ) Pleasanton, CA |
| Curriculum/Instructional Designer | (HQ) Pleasanton, CA |
| Customer Care Analyst | (HQ) Pleasanton, CA |
| Customer Support Operations Manager | (HQ) Pleasanton, CA |
| Customer Support Operations Specialist | (HQ) Pleasanton, CA |
| Influencer/Analyst Relations Manager | (HQ) Pleasanton, CA |
| On-Demand Education Designer | (HQ) Pleasanton, CA |
| Salesforce QA Analyst / Developer | (HQ) Pleasanton, CA |
| Technical Trainer |
Job 91: Financial Services Analyst I or II @ Astronomy Department @ UCB
I took Astronomy AND Astrophysics in college! Hook me up!
Job 84: Miscellaneous Clerk @ TSA
Yes, I want to be a Miscellaneous Clerk. It's one step above "Other."
Job 82: Secretary, FDIC
Asked about my experience using an automated tickler system. WTF?!
Ah, here we go:
http://www.americanbar.org/newsletter/publications/law_trends_news_practice_area_e_newsletter_home/practice_scott.html
Ah, here we go:
http://www.americanbar.org/newsletter/publications/law_trends_news_practice_area_e_newsletter_home/practice_scott.html
Job 75: Assistant Director, Student Support Services @ SJSU
This is a long-shot, but I am still confident that I could do it and be useful. Just gimme an interview!
Job 74: Senior Access Services Coordinator @ SJSU
This is a job in the library. I've worked in a library. I like them. Sign me up!
Update on Job 62: I said no.
This would have been a great opportunity for someone who is a cutthroat door-to-door salesperson. But I am not that. I spoke with Jeremy on the phone; he was a nice guy, but I don't think that this is for me.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Update on Job 62: The Solar Startup: Gen110
Looks like a sales position with a base salary plus commission and bonuses.
But I wouldn't really know all the details because Jeremy, who was supposed to call me at 130, did not. I left a message for him. We'll see.
But I wouldn't really know all the details because Jeremy, who was supposed to call me at 130, did not. I left a message for him. We'll see.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Update on Job 50: working for the Social Security Administration
Apparently I am eligible, but was not referred to the next round. Back to the drawing board.
Update on Job 62: The Solar Startup
Well, either I have that special something they're interested in, or they'll take anyone, 'cause they emailed back already to set up an interview tomorrow! That feels good!
I shall find out if this is a full-time gig with benefits, or a free-lance sales job. I suspect the latter, but you never know. Here's to hoping!
I shall find out if this is a full-time gig with benefits, or a free-lance sales job. I suspect the latter, but you never know. Here's to hoping!
Job 68: Executive Assistant to Sales at Steelwedge Software, Inc.
First day on the job, I will rewrite the job descriptions to specify that it's not "Sales," but "the Sales Department." Unless we're talking about being the Executive Assistant to Ms. Sales, in which case I'll be pronouncing it as two syllables, not one. Regardless, hire me, please.
Job 67: Executive Administrative Assistant at University HealthCare Alliance
But is there healthcare? I would imagine so. Sign me up!
Job 63: Documentation Specialist at Stanford Federal Credit Union
Documenting things? Sure. When can I start?
Job 62: Solar Sales with startup
This company's ad explicitly asked for non-traditional candidates, like those who had done volunteer work abroad or were addicted to Triathalons. I don't know about specifically advertising for people with addictions, but I guess they know what they're doing. On the other hand, the job is so vaguely defined, and the description so out there that it's entirely possible that the reason it is so is because they don't really know what they want.
But I still think they should call me.
But I still think they should call me.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Job 59: Staff Operations Specialist, FBI
This is some high-level law-enforcement stuff! The application was all about the ability to analyze data, identify trends, and draw conclusions from occasionally murky information. Sounds like a job for a liberal arts major to me!
Job 58: Cook for the Veterans Administration
As a certified Coast Guard Chef, I think I can handle this!
Job 57: Deckhand with the National Park Service
Okay, this one is a long-shot. But working on restoring historical boats? Cool!
But with questions like this:
* Required
* Required
But with questions like this:
* Required
* Required
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Job 54: Assistant to Dean of Inclusion, Diversity, and Special Programs at USF
Working with people with disabilities? Law school? yes, please.
Job 53: Program Assistant IV / Graduate Recruiting and Admissions Coordinator
I could totally do this! It's at USF, which means I could go to law school in the evenings! Here's to hoping!
The job that never was: Program Assistant at USF
Wrote cover letter. Perfected CV. Found out it was internal only. Shucks.
Monday, March 12, 2012
A rough day.
It's been a rough day, and it's only 11 am.
Rejected from a teaching position at College of Marin.
Rejected from a different teaching position at College of Marin.
Rejected from promotion at current place of employment; job given to someone who's only been here for three semesters. Considering that the four people on the interview panel are all people I work with, it sort of sends a message. Lots of staring into space today. Crap.
Rejected from a teaching position at College of Marin.
Rejected from a different teaching position at College of Marin.
Rejected from promotion at current place of employment; job given to someone who's only been here for three semesters. Considering that the four people on the interview panel are all people I work with, it sort of sends a message. Lots of staring into space today. Crap.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
They want me! They really want me!
Somebody apparently wants me to open up a franchise of something! Woo-hoo!
Hello Kevin,
I’d love the opportunity to talk to you about your CV! Your credentials are very impressive, your background and track record closely resemble some other highly successful individuals. We have worked with many such professionals and helped them realize their dreams to become successful entrepreneurs. Based on your CV, I can see that you are quite accomplished in your field and may welcome the chance to apply your expertise in a more entrepreneurial setting.
Recession has touched us all, but some industries have turned it into a business growth opportunity. Franchising is one industry where success, profitability and economic stability have actually made incremental strides. My role is to carefully select and invite qualified individuals to explore franchising in all its potential and you fit the profile.
With your background in management and leadership positions adding weight to your credentials, I am confident that you are likely a great fit. We know you have the initiative, skills and educational qualifications that are the building blocks of a successful business. Finding the missing link - the right franchise opportunity - will be a breeze with our help and advice. The research, qualification and application services I provide costs you absolutely nothing.
Imagine the possibility of applying your experience in a business of your own, increasing your earning potential, gaining the flexibility of working your own hours in a career you enjoy and more importantly never having to worry about losing your job again. It doesn’t have to be a pipe dream anymore! Here’s a chance at work-life balance like never before!
Please visit www.franrecruiting.eu and find out more information about my services. Once you are there, fill out the “Get Started Today” form and I’ll give you a call within 48 hours to discuss the next steps.
Best regards,
Rachel Taylor
Franchising Coordinator
rachel@franrecruiting.eu
www.franrecruiting.eu
30 Osmond Drive,
Wells, Somerset
BA5 2JX (UK)
Franchising Coordinator
rachel@franrecruiting.eu
www.franrecruiting.eu
30 Osmond Drive,
Wells, Somerset
BA5 2JX (UK)
Today's rejection: Santa Rosa Junior College
Generally I appreciate it when those who are rejecting me give reasons. In this case, however, I dunno.
These criteria, ostensibly, are, in order, the most important factors they considered:
1. education
2. experience
3. composition experience, education, and professional commitment
4. other language proficiency / cross-cultural experience
5. administrative/professional potential
6. overall quality of application packet.
On 1, education: I have an MA in the subject. I sure hope the person you picked has a PhD in Applied Linguistics.
2: Experience: eight years of ESL experience, including 8 consecutive semesters at a community college isn't enough? Sheesh.
3: Again, 8 and 8 doesn't fly? Again, the MA thing. Professional commitment... What, presenting at the state-wide conference wasn't commitment enough? Would a photo of my ESL tattoo have helped?
4: I sure hope the person you picked speaks four or more languages, has visited over three dozen countries, and lived in seven or more.
5: Ouch. Denied.
6: Quality of application packet: darn.
I have to say, the last two seem pretty... vague.
Here's what I suspect: either they already had some part-timer picked out for this position, but they still had to open it up to the general public anyway, OR someone with a PhD applied. That's what I'll tell myself, and simply gear up for my interview tomorrow!
These criteria, ostensibly, are, in order, the most important factors they considered:
1. education
2. experience
3. composition experience, education, and professional commitment
4. other language proficiency / cross-cultural experience
5. administrative/professional potential
6. overall quality of application packet.
On 1, education: I have an MA in the subject. I sure hope the person you picked has a PhD in Applied Linguistics.
2: Experience: eight years of ESL experience, including 8 consecutive semesters at a community college isn't enough? Sheesh.
3: Again, 8 and 8 doesn't fly? Again, the MA thing. Professional commitment... What, presenting at the state-wide conference wasn't commitment enough? Would a photo of my ESL tattoo have helped?
4: I sure hope the person you picked speaks four or more languages, has visited over three dozen countries, and lived in seven or more.
5: Ouch. Denied.
6: Quality of application packet: darn.
I have to say, the last two seem pretty... vague.
Here's what I suspect: either they already had some part-timer picked out for this position, but they still had to open it up to the general public anyway, OR someone with a PhD applied. That's what I'll tell myself, and simply gear up for my interview tomorrow!
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
After school program update
No word yet. I wonder if they're interviewing other candidates. Hmm. Guess I'll just wait. But at what point do I check in again? A week?
This time, I said no.
Run an ESL program at one of the SUNYs? Yes, please!
Surprise... it's only part-time. Back to the drawing board.
Surprise... it's only part-time. Back to the drawing board.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Update: after school program
I've had two interviews there so far, and they both went really well! The benefits are great, but the money is bad... gotta see what happens if they make an offer.
Rejected: NovoNordisk
Apparently Novo isn't interested in people who don't have any experience in their field. Imagine that!
Monday, February 27, 2012
Update: Bilingual ESL content specialist
Despite having a MA in TESL, being trilingual, and being an expert in curriculum design, I apparently do not meet their needs. Crap.
Update: Sales Director for Higher Education: online learning co
Apparently you have to actually have some sales experience in order to be the sales director. Makes sense to me, and I have to say, John Zwieg wrote me one of the nicest rejection emails ever. Of course, I am pretty sure I searched for "entry level" positions, so I am not sure why it turned out to be a Director-level position. C'est la vie. I am impressed, though -- John somehow managed to make me feel good about getting rejected. Wow!
Job 51: Internal Promotion at current employer
So they're creating a half and half position -- half teaching, half administrative work. It's a great opportunity to learn all about the field I'm currently in, and if they offered it to me, I would take it in a heartbeat! Unfortunately, all of us have to compete for it, and I don't feel good about competing with people I like. But not to the point that I wouldn't do it. I want it!
Update: After-school program
Had the interview today. I think I really nailed it. The good: really nice people, really nice facility, and very fulfilling work. Oh, and great benefits! The bad: low pay. Sigh. We'll see what they say, though. Aside from the money, it would really be a great place to work.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Update: Chartis Insurance
Chartis Insurance doesn't want me as a file clerk. Dang. I like to think that I'm qualified and that they just had someone else already picked out.
Statistics? Who needs 'em?
I talked with the boss. She told me that they have a 78% success rate with the WIA program. Sweet!
Job 50: Contact Representative, SSA
Working with angry people to clarify why their Social Security benefits have been cut? Yes, please!
East Bay Works / Federal WIA Program
I went to the Tri-Cities Career Center to see what they could do for me jobwise. They wanted me to sign up for a federally-funded program called WIA -- they do workshops about job hunting. And if you ever want to get one-on-one job counseling, you have to go through this program. Here's my conversation with the receptionist:
Receptionist: "So would you like to sign up for the WIA program?"
Me: "Well, how successful is it?"
R: "Oh, very successful!"
Me: "So... like... 50% of the participants find jobs?"
R: "We have to reapply for the grant every year, and we keep getting it, so I'd say it's pretty successful!"
Me: "Okay, so... 90% of the people get jobs?"
R: "I don't think they would keep renewing our grant unless we helped people find jobs!"
Me: "I see. So you don't actually keep statistics on how many people in the program actually find jobs?"
R: "Of course we keep statistics! It's a federal requirement!"
Me: "Okay, so what percentage of participants find jobs?"
R: "Well, that number changes every year. You see, we have to report yearly data."
Me: "Okay. So in 2011, what percentage of participants found jobs?"
R: "A lot!"
Me: "Like... 25%? 75%?"
R: "I dont' have that data right in front of me."
Me: "Okay, does someone in the office have that data?"
R: "My boss."
Me: "Can I talk to your boss?"
R: "I can give you her email address."
Me: "Okay, thanks."
R: So would you like to sign up for the WIA program?"
Me: "I think I'd like to find out how successful it is, first."
R: "Okay. Are there any other questions I can help you with today?"
Me: "Thanks, but I'm good for now."
Receptionist: "So would you like to sign up for the WIA program?"
Me: "Well, how successful is it?"
R: "Oh, very successful!"
Me: "So... like... 50% of the participants find jobs?"
R: "We have to reapply for the grant every year, and we keep getting it, so I'd say it's pretty successful!"
Me: "Okay, so... 90% of the people get jobs?"
R: "I don't think they would keep renewing our grant unless we helped people find jobs!"
Me: "I see. So you don't actually keep statistics on how many people in the program actually find jobs?"
R: "Of course we keep statistics! It's a federal requirement!"
Me: "Okay, so what percentage of participants find jobs?"
R: "Well, that number changes every year. You see, we have to report yearly data."
Me: "Okay. So in 2011, what percentage of participants found jobs?"
R: "A lot!"
Me: "Like... 25%? 75%?"
R: "I dont' have that data right in front of me."
Me: "Okay, does someone in the office have that data?"
R: "My boss."
Me: "Can I talk to your boss?"
R: "I can give you her email address."
Me: "Okay, thanks."
R: So would you like to sign up for the WIA program?"
Me: "I think I'd like to find out how successful it is, first."
R: "Okay. Are there any other questions I can help you with today?"
Me: "Thanks, but I'm good for now."
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Another call from Brilliant Advertising
They called again. Why can't you just answer my question!?!?! Is it or is it not a full-time, salaried, benefited position? The fact that you're being so secretive about it suggests very strongly that it's not. And you're wasting my time!
Check out this blog:
http://entryleveljobscamsblog.blogspot.com/2011/08/brilliant-advertising-inc-san-jose-ca.html
Check out this blog:
http://entryleveljobscamsblog.blogspot.com/2011/08/brilliant-advertising-inc-san-jose-ca.html
Chartis Insurance Update: weird.
"Thank you for your voluntary cooperation."
Weird. They wanted another form regarding my ethnicity. Even though I had already done it once online. Who designs these HR departments!?
Weird. They wanted another form regarding my ethnicity. Even though I had already done it once online. Who designs these HR departments!?
Update to 14 jobs in one day: OFJCC
Got a call back for an interview to run an after-school program with the OFJCC. I would love this -- I had a blast doing this in Ecuador, and it's important work! Wish me luck!
Update on Job 42: Brilliant Advertising
Apparently it's a scam. There are websites out there detailing how Brilliant gets you to come in for an interview, then explains that you're basically going to be doing door-to-door cold calls, working on straight commission. Please. Just because you could work full-time if you wanted to doesn't mean that's a "full-time" job. Deceptive!
Monday, February 20, 2012
Job 48: Administrative Assistant at BioRad
Come on -- it has "Rad" in its name.
This is a temp job. I used to not apply to temp jobs, but then someone told me that if you do a good job, they can often turn into permanent positions. Or perhaps lead to lateral transfers. And for benefits, I'll take that risk.
This is a temp job. I used to not apply to temp jobs, but then someone told me that if you do a good job, they can often turn into permanent positions. Or perhaps lead to lateral transfers. And for benefits, I'll take that risk.
Job 47: Management Trainee at Cintas
Sweet, management! A foot in the door!
I never understand why they request a resume AND make you fill in all those fields, though. Sheesh.
I never understand why they request a resume AND make you fill in all those fields, though. Sheesh.
Job 43: Administrative Assistant with Manpower.
I don't know if this is with Manpower itself, or if Manpower is looking for an AA for another company. Regardless, the application process was easy. We'll see!
Job 42: CSR with Brilliant Advertising
Their job description is what got me: creative thinking, willing to go outside of comfort zone, and a few other things that were... unusual. I like the unusual angle.
Job 41: Program Specialist with the VA, specializing in PTSD
I had totally done about 95% of the things in the questionnaire! Plus, have dealt with PTSD myself, I know a little bit about just how much it can mess up your life!
Hope I get it!
Hope I get it!
Job 40: Claims Adjuster with Progressive
I have insurance experience already. I have a critical, problem-solving, answer-seeking mind. And I might just get to travel with this position!
a simple question...
If you're looking for someone who has a proven record of exceeding goals, wouldn't that mean that the goals are set too low to begin with?
Job 38: Social Services Program Assistant
Another one for the county. Yeah, I'd have to learn some new programs, but I can do that!
Idea: the application party
Sure, there are some logistical hurdles to... hurdle. But one, what an opportunity for job seekers! And two, what a great PR move on the company's part. And three, who knows -- they might just find some talent they can use themselves right there!
Job 37: Medi-Cal Program Assistant.
Nobody ever says to themselves, "When I grow up, I want to be a Medi-Cal Program Assistant for the county." But you know what? I would do that, and do it well.
Job 36: Innovation Advisor with Kaiser
This is a kind of "out there" job, but it might be a good match for me. The Innovation Advisor works with innovators who are trying out new ideas and approaches and helps them plan and think through their ideas at whatever stage in the process they're at. It's a kind of amorphous role that requires a great deal of ad-libbing and on-the-spot decision making. But I do that every day already. Here's to hoping!
Job 34: Corporate Trainer at RingCentral
I've been doing training and corporate training for years. No, they don't sell wedding rings.
Job 33: Administrative Assistant to Confidential Company in San Mateo
Google? Facebook? Other? I may never know.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Jobs 29, 30, and 31: Cake Decorator, Cake Decorator, and Meat Cutter
Whole Foods has great benefits. I'm sure they would want to hire a cake decorator with no experience, right?
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Jobs 22-28: Stanford.
From Administrative Assistant to the Grounds Department to Research Assistant for a Law Professor, I applied for a bunch. Will something hit? I dunno. But I sure hope so.
Plus, the chance to do a Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics?! The chance to go to Law School? Awesome!
My Indeed.com Day: 14 jobs in one sitting.
Indeed.com has a nifty feature whereby you can upload your resume and then send it to selected positions that accept resumes via indeed.com. Were they personalized? No. Were they long-shots anyway? Yes. But it was so easy to send them out, why not throw them all to the wall and see what sticks? I know the odds are low of landing a job like this, but the odds would be lower if I never tried in the first place.
It's kind of a balancing act -- if it's a job that is a really good match, I'll certainly take the time to craft the perfect resume and cover letter. If, on the other hand, it's not a perfect match, I'm happy to throw my hat into the ring, but I don't necessarily expect a call.
It's kind of a balancing act -- if it's a job that is a really good match, I'll certainly take the time to craft the perfect resume and cover letter. If, on the other hand, it's not a perfect match, I'm happy to throw my hat into the ring, but I don't necessarily expect a call.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Letting Go of Power and Control: When “Chaotic Trust” is the Best Choice
“So what do you guys think?”
No response.
“Seriously, folks – do you think that pollution is really as bad as the author makes it sound?”
Nothing.
The lesson was a disaster. You can’t have an interactive classroom if there’s no interaction. I had tried prodding with this class. I had tried pleading. I had tried anger, scare tactics, and even tossing a basketball around to get whoever was holding the ball to participate. I had tried every trick in the book. Except one.
“Okay. I’m going to step outside for five minutes. Discuss the questions. When I come back, I want you to have all the answers.”
They stared at me as if I were insane, and I wondered if I was as I strode to the door. I closed the door behind me and listened.
Silence.
And then a voice. And another. And before ten seconds had passed, it sounded like an argument was getting started. Yes! They were arguing about pollution!
When I came back into the classroom, they fell silent again – but they looked… proud. “Well,” I asked, “Did you come up with some answers?”
“Yes,” one of them said with a smile.
“Great! Let’s hear ‘em!” and the rest of the lesson went swimmingly.
The empty vessel model of education is dead; we now know that when students interact with each other, the teacher, and the material, they learn it a whole lot better than when they simply sit and listen to a lecture. Yes, it’s more work for students to do something active and take initiative and responsibility for their own learning, but that’s where we’re headed – because it works. And so, part of our job as educators is to come up with creative lesson plans that force students to manipulate the target material themselves. My students were so used to teachers simply feeding them the answers that they had stopped trying to figure them out. My attitude is this: I already know the answers, and I don’t impress myself by showing my students that I know the answers. Instead, I want them to figure it out for themselves.
My class and a friend’s class were collaborating on performing a play and creating the sets. I was watching from a distance as one group struggled to figure out how best to use their limited supply of cardboard and paint. My friend saw their confusion and started giving them instructions. I stepped in and asked her to just wait and let them figure it out on their own. They did, and in the end, the sets looked like they had been made by third-graders, not adults. But they sure were proud of what they had done, and I was, too. Years later, my friend told me that that was a formative experience in her teaching career, and that she always goes back to it when she finds herself wanting to intervene in the spirit of helpfulness. Sometimes the best thing we can do for our students is to leave them alone!
I overheard a student complaining to another student: “Mr. Heller doesn’t even teach; he makes us do all the work ourselves.”
Exactly. I create scenarios in class that make students learn. That’s a whole lot more effective and rewarding than lecturing for an hour. Sometimes, the best thing a teacher can do is to let students struggle through the process of learning. Don’t get me wrong – I’m not at my desk checking the stock market; I’m circulating through the classroom the entire time, keeping an eye on students’ progress. I might ask an occasional leading question or mildly suggest a different approach, but it is essential to me that students are not simply passive receivers of information, and instead are active participants in control of their own education. Sometimes the best thing we can do for our students is to let go of our need to control.
Job 6: Product Analyst: Math and Language Arts: Applied
San Mateo-based company. Design educational programs. Sound groovy!
A dangerous strategy?
Some people have been asking me, "Kevin, don't you think it's a bad plan to be so public with your job search? Won't your boss get mad?"
No. My boss is awesome! He's told me from the beginning that he knows that my current position is less than ideal. I want full-time work, and due to the crummy economy and budget cuts, there just is no realistic way that my current position is ever going to turn into a full-time job. And, I am 100% confident that he is doing everything he can to change that. However, the reality is that he's not God -- while he can do a lot, he can't do the impossible.
Actually, if there was a way to turn my job into full-time, I would sign on in a heartbeat! I love my job, I get along really well with my boss, my colleagues are super, my students are great, and the location is ideal. The only two downsides are the lack of full-time-ness and the lack of benefits. Other than that, I would want to stay forever! Here's to hoping for a miracle -- that it DOES become full-time!
No. My boss is awesome! He's told me from the beginning that he knows that my current position is less than ideal. I want full-time work, and due to the crummy economy and budget cuts, there just is no realistic way that my current position is ever going to turn into a full-time job. And, I am 100% confident that he is doing everything he can to change that. However, the reality is that he's not God -- while he can do a lot, he can't do the impossible.
Actually, if there was a way to turn my job into full-time, I would sign on in a heartbeat! I love my job, I get along really well with my boss, my colleagues are super, my students are great, and the location is ideal. The only two downsides are the lack of full-time-ness and the lack of benefits. Other than that, I would want to stay forever! Here's to hoping for a miracle -- that it DOES become full-time!
Job 5: Applied for.
I'd be great at this job! It is somewhat annoying, however, when the application process requires you to cut-and-paste your resume, then upload your resume, and then complete one of those 300-fields-of-text forms for each job you've had -- especially when they already have your resume! Sheesh!
Ah well --here's to hoping!
Ah well --here's to hoping!
Job 5: NWEA is seeking a Content Specialist with expertise in English Language Arts and ESL/ELL
Oh yeah! This has my name written all over it! BA in English? MA in TESL? Interest in curriculum design? Experience in curriculum design? Experience in teaching? Experience in web editing? Experience in working remotely? This is all me, baby!
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Job 4: Secretary for the IRS
I could totally do this. It's stable, it's honest, and I would make my boss look good.
I doubt I'll get it, though -- I have no Vets Preference!
I doubt I'll get it, though -- I have no Vets Preference!
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Job 3: Legal Assistant with the Social Security Administration: APPLIED!
Back on track with a job a day!
Have a taken a college course on oral communication? Shoot, I've TAUGHT that course!
Have a taken a college course on oral communication? Shoot, I've TAUGHT that course!
Job 3: Silly Government Rules
"Check the box if you want to provide demographic information."
I left it unchecked.
"Sorry -- your application cannot be processed until you check all the boxes."
I checked the box.
Now I can proceed.
WEIRD.
I left it unchecked.
"Sorry -- your application cannot be processed until you check all the boxes."
I checked the box.
Now I can proceed.
WEIRD.
Job 3: Legal Assistant with the Social Security Administration
Right up my alley: it's law, it's government, it's important, it makes a difference, it's stable. Sign me up!
Job #2: Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein: APPLIED!
Application done. Cover letter done. CV done. Me: not done. I have another app to do.
Tomorrow: mail it.
Tomorrow: mail it.
Job #2: Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein FAIL
Got home at 9:30 last night. Made zero progress on this application. I guess I just need to do two jobs today to make up for it!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Job #1. Application: Delivered!
"Dude," you might be saying to yourself. "It's only an application. What are you so excited?"
To which I would reply, "There's enough negativity in the world already -- dropping off a completed application and having HR tell me it's complete is a good enough reason for me to celebrate!"
And speaking of HR, I can report that I interacted with three Ohlone HR people this morning -- and they were great! I have had some unpleasant encounters HR people in the past, and I know a lot of other people have, too (Dilbert, for example). But these folks? They're great!
To which I would reply, "There's enough negativity in the world already -- dropping off a completed application and having HR tell me it's complete is a good enough reason for me to celebrate!"
And speaking of HR, I can report that I interacted with three Ohlone HR people this morning -- and they were great! I have had some unpleasant encounters HR people in the past, and I know a lot of other people have, too (Dilbert, for example). But these folks? They're great!
Monday, February 13, 2012
Job #2: Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein
Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein: advocates for justice and NPR sponsors.
Okay, I admit it -- before I heard that they were sponsoring a challenge grant at my local NPR station, KQED, I had never heard of them. Oh, I had heard of justice. And I love me a good fight. I just never had heard of these folks. But I checked them out online, and they look like the real deal. I'm not a lawyer, but you can bet I can support a lawyer pretty well. And heck, if I'm lucky, maybe they'll even help me go to law school in the evenings! Is that too much to hope for? I don't think so. IF I get a job, and IF they turn out to be nice people to work with, I'm pretty sure that they'll want a hard-working and creative lawyer on their team.
Okay, I'm getting ahead of myself. First step: get the job. Heck, get A job.
Idea: Showing up to the interview with a dozen cupcakes. Unusual? Yes. Could backfire? Sure. But it's Valentine's Day Eve, I'm baking a pear cake right now, and I am reflecting upon baked goods and their power to win friend and influence people. I mean look -- nobody wants to be thought of as an ass-kisser. On the other hand, how many people show up to an interview with cupcakes for the office? You can bet they'll be talking about you for a long time after... I guess you do need to make sure that the cupcakes a good, though. And probably it's best if they're boutique, not homemade. Would you eat a stranger's cupcakes? Especially a stranger who brought a dozen cupcakes to a job interview? Me either.
Actually, perhaps I should put this cupcake plan on hold for a bit... the job application can go in, though.
Okay, I admit it -- before I heard that they were sponsoring a challenge grant at my local NPR station, KQED, I had never heard of them. Oh, I had heard of justice. And I love me a good fight. I just never had heard of these folks. But I checked them out online, and they look like the real deal. I'm not a lawyer, but you can bet I can support a lawyer pretty well. And heck, if I'm lucky, maybe they'll even help me go to law school in the evenings! Is that too much to hope for? I don't think so. IF I get a job, and IF they turn out to be nice people to work with, I'm pretty sure that they'll want a hard-working and creative lawyer on their team.
Okay, I'm getting ahead of myself. First step: get the job. Heck, get A job.
Idea: Showing up to the interview with a dozen cupcakes. Unusual? Yes. Could backfire? Sure. But it's Valentine's Day Eve, I'm baking a pear cake right now, and I am reflecting upon baked goods and their power to win friend and influence people. I mean look -- nobody wants to be thought of as an ass-kisser. On the other hand, how many people show up to an interview with cupcakes for the office? You can bet they'll be talking about you for a long time after... I guess you do need to make sure that the cupcakes a good, though. And probably it's best if they're boutique, not homemade. Would you eat a stranger's cupcakes? Especially a stranger who brought a dozen cupcakes to a job interview? Me either.
Actually, perhaps I should put this cupcake plan on hold for a bit... the job application can go in, though.
Job application #1: DONE!
Whew! Finally done! Transcripts, cover letter, list of references, list of courses taught and descriptions, miniscule writing on the official application, and a few other minor details.
The cover letter is always tricky -- do you say what you THINK they want to hear? Do you just be yourself? A blend of the two? In the end, I settled on sincerity -- just put myself out there, and they can either take me or leave me. But this I know: if they pick me, I'll do a darn good job for them!
The cover letter is always tricky -- do you say what you THINK they want to hear? Do you just be yourself? A blend of the two? In the end, I settled on sincerity -- just put myself out there, and they can either take me or leave me. But this I know: if they pick me, I'll do a darn good job for them!
This job hunt thing takes some serious time...
Four hours into this application, and I am reminded of how a job hunt is a full-time job. Couple that with a hungry five-year-old, and you've pretty much got to give up sleep. C'est la vie!
365 jobs
The goal: apply to 365 different jobs in a year and blog about it.
The other goal: have one of those applications turn into an offer of employment and accept it.
The method: using my powers of creative problem solving, unique perspectives, commitment to teamwork, sense of justice, inherent gratitude, and amusing sense of humor, I will land a job.
The mood: upbeat.
The weather: rainy.
The snack I just had: a tropical fruit cup, no sugar added.
The tie I'm wearing: black with orange squares.
The present I bought my wife: a cow-tipping coffee mug from Iowa.
The present I got my daughter: the hotel soap (in the shape of a seashell).
The other goal: have one of those applications turn into an offer of employment and accept it.
The method: using my powers of creative problem solving, unique perspectives, commitment to teamwork, sense of justice, inherent gratitude, and amusing sense of humor, I will land a job.
The mood: upbeat.
The weather: rainy.
The snack I just had: a tropical fruit cup, no sugar added.
The tie I'm wearing: black with orange squares.
The present I bought my wife: a cow-tipping coffee mug from Iowa.
The present I got my daughter: the hotel soap (in the shape of a seashell).
The First Post
I have applied for jobs in the past. But now I'm documenting them.
Today starts with Job #1: English Professor at Ohlone College.
I would love this job -- in one of my writing classes, a student asked me, "Mr. Heller, why didn't they teach us this stuff in high school?" It's a good question, but I didn't have a good answer. But that was some serious job satisfaction right there -- it was a little reminder about why I went into this field in the first place.
This job is somewhat unique in the field, because they don't require letters of recommendation right off the bat. This is a very good thing! Look at it this way: they're going to get hundreds of applications for this job. Let's keep the math simple and say 100. That means that 100 people are going to ask 300 other people to write them a letter of recommendation, just create fake letters, or some combination of both. When you require letters of rec in the first round, you're just BEGGING for people to lie to you. Sheesh.
Ohlone's approach makes far more sense -- get your applicants, pick the ones you think are the best candidates, and THEN ask for letters of recommendation. Saves hundreds of people time, money, and resources!
Today starts with Job #1: English Professor at Ohlone College.
I would love this job -- in one of my writing classes, a student asked me, "Mr. Heller, why didn't they teach us this stuff in high school?" It's a good question, but I didn't have a good answer. But that was some serious job satisfaction right there -- it was a little reminder about why I went into this field in the first place.
This job is somewhat unique in the field, because they don't require letters of recommendation right off the bat. This is a very good thing! Look at it this way: they're going to get hundreds of applications for this job. Let's keep the math simple and say 100. That means that 100 people are going to ask 300 other people to write them a letter of recommendation, just create fake letters, or some combination of both. When you require letters of rec in the first round, you're just BEGGING for people to lie to you. Sheesh.
Ohlone's approach makes far more sense -- get your applicants, pick the ones you think are the best candidates, and THEN ask for letters of recommendation. Saves hundreds of people time, money, and resources!
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