Since it's getting close to the holidays, I wanted to forward this article. I'd love to credit the author, but I don't know who wrote it. The information can be verified, however, if you google the story. I think it's worth sharing. Enjoy.
If you read a recent front page story of the SF Chronicle, you would have read
about a female humpback whale who had become entangled in a spider web of
crab traps and lines.
She was weighted down by hundreds of pounds of traps that caused her to
struggle to stay afloat. She also had hundreds of yards of line rope wrapped
around her body, her tail, her torso and a line tugging in her mouth.
A fisherman spotted her just east of the Farallon Islands (outside the
Golden Gate) and radioed an environmental group for help.
Within a few hours, the rescue team arrived and determined that she was
so bad off, the only way to save her was to dive in and untangle her.
They worked for hours with curved knives and eventually freed her.
When she was free, the divers say she swam in what seemed like joyous circles.
She then came back to each and every diver, one at a time, and nudged them, pushed them gently around -- she was thanking them. Some said it was the most incredibly beautiful experience of their lives.
The guy who cut the rope out of her mouth said her eyes were following him the whole time, and he will never be the same.
May you, and all those you love, be so blessed and fortunate to be surrounded by people who will help you get untangled from the things that are binding you. And, may you always know the joy of giving and receiving gratitude.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
An Advocate for Change
Several years ago I found myself at the local Michworks office completing the paperwork to receive unemployment benefits. I handed my resume over to the gentleman working at the front desk and after scanning it he reiterated that I had just been laid off from a recruiting role. Um, duh, that’s why I’m here. He reached into his desk drawer, pulled out a piece of paper, handed it to me and asked for my help. What I held in my hands was his resume. He was asking me to help him find a new job and I am the one standing in the unemployment line!
While the economy was slightly different back then, I still found it offensive that he was currently employed and asking me, an obviously unemployed person, for help in getting him another job. The bigger picture, however, was the overall lack of respect and commitment to his job and the people he was supposed to be helping. John (obviously not his real name) was an employee of the state, working in this Michworks office. Out of curiosity, I asked him why he was looking for a new job. He said he heard recruiting was easy and you can pick and choose who you work with. Unlike the unemployment office, where you HAVE to go in order to collect unemployment. Yup, most people are pretty grumpy, which doesn’t make for a good day for him. But you have good benefits? Yup, that’s why he hadn’t made the move yet.
So, here sits an employee, a representative of our state, if you will, who really doesn’t like his job, nor does he like the people he is supposed to be helping, and takes up company time to try to network himself into a new position. All the while, he is being paid to help those in front of him find new positions. Some people who have probably never put together a resume, never collected unemployment and don’t know where their next paycheck is coming from. Literally.
What really bothered me about this whole interaction was the lack of, well, effort. There was absolutely no energy in that office. No positive vibe, no upbeat attitude, no ‘team spirit’. Just the silence of people who are counting the minutes until they can leave. Not the most positive experience I’ve had, but as usual, I feel compelled to speak my mind and maybe, just maybe, help make it a better experience for the next guy.
In order to do that, I would like to propose some changes to our Michworks system. In theory I think the system is a great thing for employers as well as those looking for work. The ‘free’ aspect is a huge draw for employers and as a central point for all job seekers, it’s a phenomenal tool. It’s very user friendly and covers everything I need as a job seeker. Before I lay out my proposed changes, however, I do want to put the caveat out that not every employee in the Michworks offices are as I described John. There are some who love their jobs and are good at what they do. I’m afraid those are few and far between, however. So on with my changes.
As an Advocate for Michworks Reform, I would suggest:
1. All employees of the Michworks offices must apply for the positions and have the experience (either in recruiting or HR) required to best serve the job seekers (the Civil Service exams would not count).
2. Incentives (not necessarily monetary) should be placed on the amount of top notch resumes entered into the system with the employees’ initials on them. Incomplete or substandard resumes are subtracted from the total numbers.
3. Personal, one on one time with each job seeker discussing whatever they want to focus on. Whether it’s interviewing techniques, dress code, how to cold call for job openings, etc, the Michworks employee should be knowledgeable and ready with guidance. These meetings should be scheduled at the request of the job seeker and the availability of the employee. Not a mandated meeting with little or no benefit to either party.
4. As a Government Operated program there should be incentive (not necessarily monetary) to help the job seekers get back to work. The more people working in our state, the higher the tax base, the more money available for our state budget, etc. Instead of just processing people through the system, the Michworks employees should be held accountable for the people they see every day.
5. The overall culture/attitude of the Michworks offices need to be addressed. Yes, it is a rough time for people, we all get that. But what’s wrong with a smile and some compassion the job seekers? These positions should be coveted positions within the state system. The chance to really make a difference in someone’s life? These positions should be for people who are passionate about our great state and really want to do their part.
These are just a few to get started. A positive environment combined with the right amount of compassion and guidance can really make someone’s day. The more people start to feel good about themselves, the better they will do in their job search. Ultimately, the more people that are back to work and off unemployment, the more disposable income will be in our community and the more our local economy will benefit.
As a state, shouldn’t we hold each and every one of us accountable for doing our part? Shouldn’t we all do the right thing and do our part to move things forward? If we have provided the tools to be the best we can be, then we have done the right thing. Shame on us for doing anything less.
While the economy was slightly different back then, I still found it offensive that he was currently employed and asking me, an obviously unemployed person, for help in getting him another job. The bigger picture, however, was the overall lack of respect and commitment to his job and the people he was supposed to be helping. John (obviously not his real name) was an employee of the state, working in this Michworks office. Out of curiosity, I asked him why he was looking for a new job. He said he heard recruiting was easy and you can pick and choose who you work with. Unlike the unemployment office, where you HAVE to go in order to collect unemployment. Yup, most people are pretty grumpy, which doesn’t make for a good day for him. But you have good benefits? Yup, that’s why he hadn’t made the move yet.
So, here sits an employee, a representative of our state, if you will, who really doesn’t like his job, nor does he like the people he is supposed to be helping, and takes up company time to try to network himself into a new position. All the while, he is being paid to help those in front of him find new positions. Some people who have probably never put together a resume, never collected unemployment and don’t know where their next paycheck is coming from. Literally.
What really bothered me about this whole interaction was the lack of, well, effort. There was absolutely no energy in that office. No positive vibe, no upbeat attitude, no ‘team spirit’. Just the silence of people who are counting the minutes until they can leave. Not the most positive experience I’ve had, but as usual, I feel compelled to speak my mind and maybe, just maybe, help make it a better experience for the next guy.
In order to do that, I would like to propose some changes to our Michworks system. In theory I think the system is a great thing for employers as well as those looking for work. The ‘free’ aspect is a huge draw for employers and as a central point for all job seekers, it’s a phenomenal tool. It’s very user friendly and covers everything I need as a job seeker. Before I lay out my proposed changes, however, I do want to put the caveat out that not every employee in the Michworks offices are as I described John. There are some who love their jobs and are good at what they do. I’m afraid those are few and far between, however. So on with my changes.
As an Advocate for Michworks Reform, I would suggest:
1. All employees of the Michworks offices must apply for the positions and have the experience (either in recruiting or HR) required to best serve the job seekers (the Civil Service exams would not count).
2. Incentives (not necessarily monetary) should be placed on the amount of top notch resumes entered into the system with the employees’ initials on them. Incomplete or substandard resumes are subtracted from the total numbers.
3. Personal, one on one time with each job seeker discussing whatever they want to focus on. Whether it’s interviewing techniques, dress code, how to cold call for job openings, etc, the Michworks employee should be knowledgeable and ready with guidance. These meetings should be scheduled at the request of the job seeker and the availability of the employee. Not a mandated meeting with little or no benefit to either party.
4. As a Government Operated program there should be incentive (not necessarily monetary) to help the job seekers get back to work. The more people working in our state, the higher the tax base, the more money available for our state budget, etc. Instead of just processing people through the system, the Michworks employees should be held accountable for the people they see every day.
5. The overall culture/attitude of the Michworks offices need to be addressed. Yes, it is a rough time for people, we all get that. But what’s wrong with a smile and some compassion the job seekers? These positions should be coveted positions within the state system. The chance to really make a difference in someone’s life? These positions should be for people who are passionate about our great state and really want to do their part.
These are just a few to get started. A positive environment combined with the right amount of compassion and guidance can really make someone’s day. The more people start to feel good about themselves, the better they will do in their job search. Ultimately, the more people that are back to work and off unemployment, the more disposable income will be in our community and the more our local economy will benefit.
As a state, shouldn’t we hold each and every one of us accountable for doing our part? Shouldn’t we all do the right thing and do our part to move things forward? If we have provided the tools to be the best we can be, then we have done the right thing. Shame on us for doing anything less.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
‘If you won’t do something with your spouse/partner, they’ll find someone who will.’
Pretty simple statement, but also a very powerful one. In any relationship there has to be something, or a multiple of things that bring the two parties together. When this doesn’t happen often times one or both parties look elsewhere. Before we got to this point, however, we probably argued, yelled and screamed and went into counseling. We tried to work it out. There is a reason we came together in the first place, and if we can just remember what it was, we have a chance.
While that theory may be true in our personal lives, do we apply it our professional one? If we are not getting what we need from our current employment, do we think about why we came together in the first place or do we just assume we cannot change things and quit? What if we argued, yelled and screamed and went into counseling (metaphorically speaking)? Could we work out our differences? Have we tried?
A friend of mine, also a business owner, recently said that the key to retaining good employees is finding out if/why they are happy or unhappy and then doing something about it. Talking about wants, needs, expectations, long term goals and structuring a game plan to reach those goals is critical. It takes more than a simple conversation or an anonymous survey to get to the root of the matter. Working together to ensure the success of the organization, as well as the success of the employee is a critical piece some employers forget. ‘If you won’t do something with/for your employee, they’ll find someone who will.’
It’s been said that the ideal relationship is one where you, at your core, inspire and support each other to grow into your best possible selves. Whether personal or professional, having a partner who is supportive and encouraging of us can make all the difference in our decisions.
Take the time to talk to your employees. And listen to what they have to say. Not every relationship can be saved, but aren’t some worth a try?
While that theory may be true in our personal lives, do we apply it our professional one? If we are not getting what we need from our current employment, do we think about why we came together in the first place or do we just assume we cannot change things and quit? What if we argued, yelled and screamed and went into counseling (metaphorically speaking)? Could we work out our differences? Have we tried?
A friend of mine, also a business owner, recently said that the key to retaining good employees is finding out if/why they are happy or unhappy and then doing something about it. Talking about wants, needs, expectations, long term goals and structuring a game plan to reach those goals is critical. It takes more than a simple conversation or an anonymous survey to get to the root of the matter. Working together to ensure the success of the organization, as well as the success of the employee is a critical piece some employers forget. ‘If you won’t do something with/for your employee, they’ll find someone who will.’
It’s been said that the ideal relationship is one where you, at your core, inspire and support each other to grow into your best possible selves. Whether personal or professional, having a partner who is supportive and encouraging of us can make all the difference in our decisions.
Take the time to talk to your employees. And listen to what they have to say. Not every relationship can be saved, but aren’t some worth a try?
Monday, September 21, 2009
A Year of Your life in Detroit
Time Magazine bought a house in Detroit and has moved in. One of their reporters committed to spending a year here in Detroit and writing about it for several high profile magazines. His efforts will be relayed in the form of blogs and articles ‘branded’ Assignment: Detroit.
I think it’s great that someone from the outside has taken an interest in our city and wants to learn how we tick and what makes us the community we are. I am glad they bought a house in the city, in the heart of the city. To truly communicate what this city is made of they need to be smack in the middle of things. I applaud them for doing so. I am eager to read the articles as they are published and I want to stay up to date on the blogs.
Detroit will take on this challenge; the challenge of standing up to yet another ‘outsider’ and showing them what we’re all about. The challenge that what is published in the press does not represent the city as a whole. The challenge that while our former mayor has been in the press just about every day for the past few years, it does not define who we are and what we stand for. The challenge of not letting a down economy define our culture and our people. We’ll take on that challenge, and we’ll win. We have to.
So, Steven Gray moved into Detroit and is going to write about it. He’ll highlight the good and the bad. He’ll talk about the people, the music, the art and the food. He’ll talk about the burned out houses and the murders. He’ll talk about local neighborhoods banding together to rise above the bad. He’ll talk about our schools and our politicians.
And then, he’ll go back to his home. But we’re still here. We are still here amid all those things that Steven wrote about. And what happens then? We save the Time Magazine articles for our kids to read and say that we remember when?
Not this time. This time we take action. Perhaps we needed an outsider to come in and really let us see Detroit without the rose colored glasses that some of us are told we have on. Perhaps we needed Steven to buy a house here (did he have any trouble financing, or did Time buy it?). I’d really like him to try to live off unemployment benefits while he is living here. To go from what his current salary is to unemployment benefits? Now, that would be interesting to read about! Let’s see if he can manage like we had to.
So, welcome to our city. Enjoy our food and our music. Go to The Henry Ford (Dearborn) and Parmenter’s Mill & Winery (Northville) and Eastern Market and listen to music at St. Andrews or the Fillmore Detroit. Visit Slow’s BBQ and get a taste of the food we love. I hope you’re here in the summer to experience events at Hart Plaza (Fireworks, Arab and Chaldean Festival, Caribbean Festival, African World Festival, Detroit International Jazz Festival, Mega March for Animals, just to name a few) and in the winter to see the Wayne County Parks Lightfest. I hope you’re here in the spring to watch our Red Wings on parade. I hope you get to have the experiences that the rest of us have here in Detroit and that this city becomes the home to you that it is to us.
Welcome to Detroit, Steven. Welcome to our home.
I think it’s great that someone from the outside has taken an interest in our city and wants to learn how we tick and what makes us the community we are. I am glad they bought a house in the city, in the heart of the city. To truly communicate what this city is made of they need to be smack in the middle of things. I applaud them for doing so. I am eager to read the articles as they are published and I want to stay up to date on the blogs.
Detroit will take on this challenge; the challenge of standing up to yet another ‘outsider’ and showing them what we’re all about. The challenge that what is published in the press does not represent the city as a whole. The challenge that while our former mayor has been in the press just about every day for the past few years, it does not define who we are and what we stand for. The challenge of not letting a down economy define our culture and our people. We’ll take on that challenge, and we’ll win. We have to.
So, Steven Gray moved into Detroit and is going to write about it. He’ll highlight the good and the bad. He’ll talk about the people, the music, the art and the food. He’ll talk about the burned out houses and the murders. He’ll talk about local neighborhoods banding together to rise above the bad. He’ll talk about our schools and our politicians.
And then, he’ll go back to his home. But we’re still here. We are still here amid all those things that Steven wrote about. And what happens then? We save the Time Magazine articles for our kids to read and say that we remember when?
Not this time. This time we take action. Perhaps we needed an outsider to come in and really let us see Detroit without the rose colored glasses that some of us are told we have on. Perhaps we needed Steven to buy a house here (did he have any trouble financing, or did Time buy it?). I’d really like him to try to live off unemployment benefits while he is living here. To go from what his current salary is to unemployment benefits? Now, that would be interesting to read about! Let’s see if he can manage like we had to.
So, welcome to our city. Enjoy our food and our music. Go to The Henry Ford (Dearborn) and Parmenter’s Mill & Winery (Northville) and Eastern Market and listen to music at St. Andrews or the Fillmore Detroit. Visit Slow’s BBQ and get a taste of the food we love. I hope you’re here in the summer to experience events at Hart Plaza (Fireworks, Arab and Chaldean Festival, Caribbean Festival, African World Festival, Detroit International Jazz Festival, Mega March for Animals, just to name a few) and in the winter to see the Wayne County Parks Lightfest. I hope you’re here in the spring to watch our Red Wings on parade. I hope you get to have the experiences that the rest of us have here in Detroit and that this city becomes the home to you that it is to us.
Welcome to Detroit, Steven. Welcome to our home.
The Little Things
As you might remember, the head of a company survived 9/11 because his son started kindergarten.
Another fellow was alive because it was his turn to bring donuts.
One woman was late because her alarm clock didn’t go off in time.
One was late because of being stuck on the JN Turnpike because of an auto accident.
One of them missed his bus.
One spilled food on her clothes and had to take time to change.
One’s car wouldn’t start.
One couldn’t get a taxi.
One wore new shoes to work and got blisters, so he stopped for band-aids.
So, the next time the children are slow getting dressed, you can’t find the car keys, you hit every traffic light, don’t get frustrated or mad, just take a deep breath and recognize that it may be for the best. There are things that happen and are just simply beyond our control. If there is a reason that everything happens, and that reason just saved your life, or the life of someone you love, then embrace it. Focus on what you can control and let go of things you cannot. Life is too short to not count our blessings, no matter how small.
Another fellow was alive because it was his turn to bring donuts.
One woman was late because her alarm clock didn’t go off in time.
One was late because of being stuck on the JN Turnpike because of an auto accident.
One of them missed his bus.
One spilled food on her clothes and had to take time to change.
One’s car wouldn’t start.
One couldn’t get a taxi.
One wore new shoes to work and got blisters, so he stopped for band-aids.
So, the next time the children are slow getting dressed, you can’t find the car keys, you hit every traffic light, don’t get frustrated or mad, just take a deep breath and recognize that it may be for the best. There are things that happen and are just simply beyond our control. If there is a reason that everything happens, and that reason just saved your life, or the life of someone you love, then embrace it. Focus on what you can control and let go of things you cannot. Life is too short to not count our blessings, no matter how small.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Seven Tips to Effectively Recognize Employees
What's the number one reason that employees stay with an organization? Usually, it is simply because they enjoy working with their supervisors, according to numerous studies.
Building good relationships between staff members and their bosses can pay off handsomely for your company. In fact, some experts estimate that the cost of replacing an employee ranges from 29 to 46 percent of the person's salary.
The key to lowering your turnover rate is to tell employees when they've done a good job and let them know the company values them. While there are many ways to encourage a company culture that appreciates talent, here are seven effective suggestions:
Run profiles. Use your company newsletter to run brief stories about key employees. Make sure you include the people in the mail room to top management. Outline their accomplishments at work, as well as their personal interests or hobbies. Include a photo so everyone can recognize them.
Send memos. If someone from another department pitched in on an important project, thank the employee in a memo or e-mail and send a copy to his or her supervisor.
Put it in writing. Urge managers and supervisors to send hand-written thank you notes to individual staff members at least once a year. The notes should be thoughtful, with details of the employee's contributions to the company and the department. A hand-written thank you makes a bigger impression than e-mail or typed letters.
Give praise in public. Acknowledge your staff members' achievements in a public forum, such as a staff meeting. Or hold semi-annual ceremonies to publicly reward employees for their achievements. Be sure to recognize all kinds of excellence, from the receptionist who is complimented by customers to the janitor who goes the extra mile.
Take them to lunch. Provide a budget that supervisors can tap into once a month to take an outstanding employee to lunch. This helps develop relationships and a $20 lunch goes a long way toward making employees feel appreciated.
Tailor your appreciation. There's no one way to pay tribute to your best employees. You can recognize outstanding staff members with a formal "Employee of the Month" program or use a less formal system such as a face-to-face compliment.
Promote two-way communication. Good managers spend more time listening than talking. Maintain an open-door policy. Employees who feel comfortable communicating with you will feel valued and be more inspired to deliver their best work. Get to know your team. Frequent interaction with your staff allows you to get to know each employee on a personal level.
Many thanks to Woronoff, Hyman, Levenson and Sweet PC for the article.
30600 Northwestern Hwy, Ste 302; Farmington Hills, MI 48334-3172
248-487-2600
Building good relationships between staff members and their bosses can pay off handsomely for your company. In fact, some experts estimate that the cost of replacing an employee ranges from 29 to 46 percent of the person's salary.
The key to lowering your turnover rate is to tell employees when they've done a good job and let them know the company values them. While there are many ways to encourage a company culture that appreciates talent, here are seven effective suggestions:
Run profiles. Use your company newsletter to run brief stories about key employees. Make sure you include the people in the mail room to top management. Outline their accomplishments at work, as well as their personal interests or hobbies. Include a photo so everyone can recognize them.
Send memos. If someone from another department pitched in on an important project, thank the employee in a memo or e-mail and send a copy to his or her supervisor.
Put it in writing. Urge managers and supervisors to send hand-written thank you notes to individual staff members at least once a year. The notes should be thoughtful, with details of the employee's contributions to the company and the department. A hand-written thank you makes a bigger impression than e-mail or typed letters.
Give praise in public. Acknowledge your staff members' achievements in a public forum, such as a staff meeting. Or hold semi-annual ceremonies to publicly reward employees for their achievements. Be sure to recognize all kinds of excellence, from the receptionist who is complimented by customers to the janitor who goes the extra mile.
Take them to lunch. Provide a budget that supervisors can tap into once a month to take an outstanding employee to lunch. This helps develop relationships and a $20 lunch goes a long way toward making employees feel appreciated.
Tailor your appreciation. There's no one way to pay tribute to your best employees. You can recognize outstanding staff members with a formal "Employee of the Month" program or use a less formal system such as a face-to-face compliment.
Promote two-way communication. Good managers spend more time listening than talking. Maintain an open-door policy. Employees who feel comfortable communicating with you will feel valued and be more inspired to deliver their best work. Get to know your team. Frequent interaction with your staff allows you to get to know each employee on a personal level.
Many thanks to Woronoff, Hyman, Levenson and Sweet PC for the article.
30600 Northwestern Hwy, Ste 302; Farmington Hills, MI 48334-3172
248-487-2600
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Favorite Metro Detroit Restaurants
Many, many thanks to those who helped compile this list! I've learned a lot about the different restaurants (not to mention driving directions!) while working on this list. Although I have not eaten at all, or even most, of them, I am looking forward to trying some! In my request to put this list together, I mentioned that we were going to try one new restaurant a month and write about it on this blog. I still am planning on doing that and (fortunately, it's after lunch today, otherwise I may have been tempted to venture out for some good Thai food) am looking forward to which restaurant we should go to first.
The information was gathered using LinkedIn and Facebook, as well as our friends and family and own personal network. All information is relayed directly from their own websites, or comments made from those who recommended the restaurants. I cannot take credit, nor criticism, for any of the information listed. I am willing, however, to post your comments if you've had a chance to visit any of these restaurants. I would love to hear feedback, and I'll add to the list if you have any restaurants that didn't make the list!
In no particular order:
Restaurant: Big Rock
City: Birmingham
Type: Chop House/Brewery
Comments: Excellent food and consistent service, atmosphere is incredible.
Website: www.bigrockchophouse.com
Restaurant: Mon Jin Lau
City: Troy
Type: Asian/Sushi
Comments: Great food (website not up yet, but menus are available online)
Website: www.monjinlau.com
Restaurant: Cheli's Chili
City: Dearborn/Detroit
Type: Sports/Entertainment
Comments: Owned by former Red Wings, Chris Chelios; eat first, then take shuttle to a game!
Website: www.chelischilibar.com
Restaurant: Pizza Papalis
City: Various
Type: Pizza
Comments: Great spinach pizza, some of the locations are connected to RioWraps, too!
Website: www.pizzapapalis.com
Restaurant: Peking House
City: Royal Oak
Type: Chinese
Comments: Easy online ordering menu
Website: www.pekinghousero.com
Restaurant: Anita's Kitchen
City: Troy/Ferndale
Type: Lebanese Café & Marketplace
Comments: The freshest, most flavorful Lebanese cuisine, friendly staff, and reasonable prices, too. On W. Maple Rd. just west of Livernois in Troy.
Website: www.anitaskitchenonline.com
Restaurant: Lake Street Tavern
City: South Lyon
Type: Tavern Fare
Comments: Non-smoking, closed on Sundays
Website: www.lakestreettavern.com
Restaurant: Louis Chop House
City: Chesterfield
Type: Chop House/Brewery
Comments: Family owned and the food is excellent. The menu varies but the steaks are always top notch! It is a 'treat' to dine there. I highly recommend it.
Website: www.louischophouse.com
Restaurant: Kruse & Muer
City: Northern Oakland County
Type: Chop House
Comments: Main St in downtown Rochester. Nice venue & excellent food @ good service. Wish I could stop in there this afternoon.
Website: www.kruseandmuerrestaurants.com
Restaurant: George's Coney Island
City: Auburn Hills
Type: Coney Island
Comments: Only about 10 tables and the line goes out the door at lunch. Best coney's in the D.
Website:
Restaurant: Slow's BBQ
City: Detroit
Type: BBQ
Comments: The best BBQ in the city. Excellent beer list. Mac and cheese, chicken wings and baby back are a must! Great space, excellent design.
Website: www.slowsbarbq.com
Restaurant: Cadieux Café
City: Detroit
Type: Belgian fare
Comments: Mussels by the bucket, and the best beer list around; live entertainment, family owned and operated since the '60's
Website: www.cadieuxcafe.com
Restaurant: Sheesh
City: Clawson
Type: Meditteranean
Comments: Owners are former employees of LaShish, so you know you're getting the best food, service and experience!
Website: www.sheeshonline.com
Restaurant: What Crepe
City: Royal Oak
Type: Crepes
Comments: Newly opened Crepe restaurant; many changes (for the better) since their opening in spring of 2009. Remember the Magic Pan restaurant? Similar to that. Yum.
Website: www.whatcrepe.com
Restaurant: Happy Sushi
City: Novi
Type: Sushi
Comments: Almost hate to tell people about it! Great food, large quantity for small prices.
Website:
Restaurant: Bread Basket Deli
City: Southfield
Type: Deli
Comments: ONLY uses Michigan made products, specifically those from Detroit. Check out the letter from the owner on their website. Good call on recommending this one!
Website: www.breadbasketdelis.com
Restaurant: Library Pub
City: Commerce/Novi
Type: Burgers/Bar
Comments: Sports bar, great food, outdoor seating for summer, friendly atmosphere.
Website:
Restaurant: Ninja Sushi
City: West Bloomfield
Type: Sushi
Comments: Great presentation and unusual selection..$1 sushi on Tues. Edible art after the meal.
Website:
Restaurant: Ventimiglia's Italian Deli
City: Sterling Heights
Type: Italian
Comments: Top notch sandwiches and italian specialties just like Grandma used to make. Worth the drive from anywhere in Metro Detroit!
Website:
Restaurant: Giorgio's
City: Oak Park
Type: Gourmet Diner'
Comments: HUGE portions, reasonable prices and a fantastic Chicken Marsala, Pistachio Pie.
Website:
Restaurant: Red Coat Tavern
City: Royal Oak
Type: Bar fare
Comments: Cedar plank salmon is tasty; known for their burgers and beer. Call ahead to put your name on the list; there is always a wait (means they are always busy, the best sign in a restaurant!)
Website:
Restaurant: Lelli's
City: Auburn Hills/Detroit
Type: Steaks/Italian/Upscale
Comments: Filet Mignon w/ zip sauce!!!! Mmmmmmm. Still owned by the Lelli family. Expensive, but worth it!
Website: www.lellisrestaurant.com
Restaurant: House of Reuben
City: Sterling Heights
Type: Sandwiches
Comments: Soups and sandwiches; converted from an old Taco Bell!
Website:
Restaurant: Mr. Pita
City: Various
Type: Roll Up sandwiches
Comments: Cheap, fresh, tasty, Schedule the Pita Truck to come to your work at lunchtime!
Website: www.mrpita.net
Restaurant: Sala Thai
City: Rochester
Type: Thai
Comments: Don't forget the soup. Great food or have a cocktail if you'd like!
Website:
Restaurant: Thang Long
City: Madison Heights
Type: Thai/Vietnamese
Comments: Don't let the appearance of the strip mall prevent you from trying out this 'gem' of Metro Detroit. One of the best Vietnamese restaurants in the area!
Website:
Restaurant: Union Street
City: Detroit
Type: Full Menu
Comments: Very influential in the Detroit 'see and be seen' scene. Evolved into the place to be in Detroit. Shame not to see it at least once, although it'll soon become .your favorite downtown restaurant!
Website: www.unionstreetdetroit.com
Restaurant: Buffalo Wild Wings
City: Various
Type: Buffalo Wild Wings (duh!)
Comments: Family favorite, everyone can order to their liking!
Website: www.buffalowildwings.com
Restaurant: Sweet Lorraine's
City: Detroit/Southfield
Type: Creative ethnic cuisine
Comments: Great fresh menu with daily/weekly/seasonal rotations
Website: www.sweetlorraines.com
Restaurant: Fishbone's
City: Detroit/Southfield/St. Clair Shores
Type: Steak, seafood, sushi
Comments: Wonderful sushi and also a full Steak and Seafood menu
Website: www.fishbonesusa.com
Restaurant: Boodles
City: Madison Heights
Type: Bar fare
Comments: They offer gourmet food at affordable prices, including tableside preparation, great wait staff, very good wine and liquor selections and live piano player almost every night. It is a real treat!
Website:
Restaurant: Pi's Thai
City: Madison Heights, maybe? 10 Mile and John R
Type: Thai
Comments: It is the craziest little hole in the wall Thai place. Mostly take out, but they have two tables inside to dine in. The ratings for spicyness are misleading - hot is "will burn your mouth and incinerate all of your internal organs". Mild is actually quite hot. Since it is such a small place, we became quite friendly with the owners and employees there and they began to remember us and get our orders set as soon as we walked in. Since moving to Georgia I haven't found another Thai place that is quite as good.
Mangi bene!!
The information was gathered using LinkedIn and Facebook, as well as our friends and family and own personal network. All information is relayed directly from their own websites, or comments made from those who recommended the restaurants. I cannot take credit, nor criticism, for any of the information listed. I am willing, however, to post your comments if you've had a chance to visit any of these restaurants. I would love to hear feedback, and I'll add to the list if you have any restaurants that didn't make the list!
In no particular order:
Restaurant: Big Rock
City: Birmingham
Type: Chop House/Brewery
Comments: Excellent food and consistent service, atmosphere is incredible.
Website: www.bigrockchophouse.com
Restaurant: Mon Jin Lau
City: Troy
Type: Asian/Sushi
Comments: Great food (website not up yet, but menus are available online)
Website: www.monjinlau.com
Restaurant: Cheli's Chili
City: Dearborn/Detroit
Type: Sports/Entertainment
Comments: Owned by former Red Wings, Chris Chelios; eat first, then take shuttle to a game!
Website: www.chelischilibar.com
Restaurant: Pizza Papalis
City: Various
Type: Pizza
Comments: Great spinach pizza, some of the locations are connected to RioWraps, too!
Website: www.pizzapapalis.com
Restaurant: Peking House
City: Royal Oak
Type: Chinese
Comments: Easy online ordering menu
Website: www.pekinghousero.com
Restaurant: Anita's Kitchen
City: Troy/Ferndale
Type: Lebanese Café & Marketplace
Comments: The freshest, most flavorful Lebanese cuisine, friendly staff, and reasonable prices, too. On W. Maple Rd. just west of Livernois in Troy.
Website: www.anitaskitchenonline.com
Restaurant: Lake Street Tavern
City: South Lyon
Type: Tavern Fare
Comments: Non-smoking, closed on Sundays
Website: www.lakestreettavern.com
Restaurant: Louis Chop House
City: Chesterfield
Type: Chop House/Brewery
Comments: Family owned and the food is excellent. The menu varies but the steaks are always top notch! It is a 'treat' to dine there. I highly recommend it.
Website: www.louischophouse.com
Restaurant: Kruse & Muer
City: Northern Oakland County
Type: Chop House
Comments: Main St in downtown Rochester. Nice venue & excellent food @ good service. Wish I could stop in there this afternoon.
Website: www.kruseandmuerrestaurants.com
Restaurant: George's Coney Island
City: Auburn Hills
Type: Coney Island
Comments: Only about 10 tables and the line goes out the door at lunch. Best coney's in the D.
Website:
Restaurant: Slow's BBQ
City: Detroit
Type: BBQ
Comments: The best BBQ in the city. Excellent beer list. Mac and cheese, chicken wings and baby back are a must! Great space, excellent design.
Website: www.slowsbarbq.com
Restaurant: Cadieux Café
City: Detroit
Type: Belgian fare
Comments: Mussels by the bucket, and the best beer list around; live entertainment, family owned and operated since the '60's
Website: www.cadieuxcafe.com
Restaurant: Sheesh
City: Clawson
Type: Meditteranean
Comments: Owners are former employees of LaShish, so you know you're getting the best food, service and experience!
Website: www.sheeshonline.com
Restaurant: What Crepe
City: Royal Oak
Type: Crepes
Comments: Newly opened Crepe restaurant; many changes (for the better) since their opening in spring of 2009. Remember the Magic Pan restaurant? Similar to that. Yum.
Website: www.whatcrepe.com
Restaurant: Happy Sushi
City: Novi
Type: Sushi
Comments: Almost hate to tell people about it! Great food, large quantity for small prices.
Website:
Restaurant: Bread Basket Deli
City: Southfield
Type: Deli
Comments: ONLY uses Michigan made products, specifically those from Detroit. Check out the letter from the owner on their website. Good call on recommending this one!
Website: www.breadbasketdelis.com
Restaurant: Library Pub
City: Commerce/Novi
Type: Burgers/Bar
Comments: Sports bar, great food, outdoor seating for summer, friendly atmosphere.
Website:
Restaurant: Ninja Sushi
City: West Bloomfield
Type: Sushi
Comments: Great presentation and unusual selection..$1 sushi on Tues. Edible art after the meal.
Website:
Restaurant: Ventimiglia's Italian Deli
City: Sterling Heights
Type: Italian
Comments: Top notch sandwiches and italian specialties just like Grandma used to make. Worth the drive from anywhere in Metro Detroit!
Website:
Restaurant: Giorgio's
City: Oak Park
Type: Gourmet Diner'
Comments: HUGE portions, reasonable prices and a fantastic Chicken Marsala, Pistachio Pie.
Website:
Restaurant: Red Coat Tavern
City: Royal Oak
Type: Bar fare
Comments: Cedar plank salmon is tasty; known for their burgers and beer. Call ahead to put your name on the list; there is always a wait (means they are always busy, the best sign in a restaurant!)
Website:
Restaurant: Lelli's
City: Auburn Hills/Detroit
Type: Steaks/Italian/Upscale
Comments: Filet Mignon w/ zip sauce!!!! Mmmmmmm. Still owned by the Lelli family. Expensive, but worth it!
Website: www.lellisrestaurant.com
Restaurant: House of Reuben
City: Sterling Heights
Type: Sandwiches
Comments: Soups and sandwiches; converted from an old Taco Bell!
Website:
Restaurant: Mr. Pita
City: Various
Type: Roll Up sandwiches
Comments: Cheap, fresh, tasty, Schedule the Pita Truck to come to your work at lunchtime!
Website: www.mrpita.net
Restaurant: Sala Thai
City: Rochester
Type: Thai
Comments: Don't forget the soup. Great food or have a cocktail if you'd like!
Website:
Restaurant: Thang Long
City: Madison Heights
Type: Thai/Vietnamese
Comments: Don't let the appearance of the strip mall prevent you from trying out this 'gem' of Metro Detroit. One of the best Vietnamese restaurants in the area!
Website:
Restaurant: Union Street
City: Detroit
Type: Full Menu
Comments: Very influential in the Detroit 'see and be seen' scene. Evolved into the place to be in Detroit. Shame not to see it at least once, although it'll soon become .your favorite downtown restaurant!
Website: www.unionstreetdetroit.com
Restaurant: Buffalo Wild Wings
City: Various
Type: Buffalo Wild Wings (duh!)
Comments: Family favorite, everyone can order to their liking!
Website: www.buffalowildwings.com
Restaurant: Sweet Lorraine's
City: Detroit/Southfield
Type: Creative ethnic cuisine
Comments: Great fresh menu with daily/weekly/seasonal rotations
Website: www.sweetlorraines.com
Restaurant: Fishbone's
City: Detroit/Southfield/St. Clair Shores
Type: Steak, seafood, sushi
Comments: Wonderful sushi and also a full Steak and Seafood menu
Website: www.fishbonesusa.com
Restaurant: Boodles
City: Madison Heights
Type: Bar fare
Comments: They offer gourmet food at affordable prices, including tableside preparation, great wait staff, very good wine and liquor selections and live piano player almost every night. It is a real treat!
Website:
Restaurant: Pi's Thai
City: Madison Heights, maybe? 10 Mile and John R
Type: Thai
Comments: It is the craziest little hole in the wall Thai place. Mostly take out, but they have two tables inside to dine in. The ratings for spicyness are misleading - hot is "will burn your mouth and incinerate all of your internal organs". Mild is actually quite hot. Since it is such a small place, we became quite friendly with the owners and employees there and they began to remember us and get our orders set as soon as we walked in. Since moving to Georgia I haven't found another Thai place that is quite as good.
Mangi bene!!
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Scams, Shticks or Sure Things?
These days we cannot be careful enough in our job search. We put out resumes, complete profiles, create cover letters and when we get a response, we don’t want to let it go. But are there times when we should back away from the phone? How do we know? I mean, really know? While some people will take advantage in times like this, it’s really up to you to decide what opportunities sound like good ones and which ones you should hang up quickly. Human nature is to believe the good, right? What if there are some people who would take advantage of that? Would you be able to spot them?
Take a look at these three scenarios and you decide:
You get a call from a recruiter with a great job for you: the location is great, doing what you love and the money is more than you’ve ever made. They love you for the position (you haven’t met them, or even phone interviewed yet) and for $25 in cash or money order, you will be guaranteed to be in the top three candidates. No, you don’t need to meet them, they’ve done their research and they really think you are the best candidate. Just send the money and we’ll get back to you.
Scam? Shtick? Sure thing?
Standard call from a recruiter with an OK opportunity (they seem to think it’s great, but I’m not all that excited about selling . . . I’m not sure what, they haven’t quite been very clear on that). I’m not sure what I’d be doing, or where I’d be working. I didn’t catch the name of the company, either, but I’m sure I’ll get their website and check them out. Hmm. Really generic looking website with no direct contact information, nor any mention of who owns the company. You really feel their sense of urgency and they keep saying that if you aren’t interested, there is someone else who would love the job. Am I in or out? Can I think about it? No? OK, I’m in! Yeah, I got a job! Or did I?
Scam? Shtick? Sure thing?
Recruiter calls, talks about my resume, tells me about a job. It’s close to my home, but the dollars are not quite what I want, but I am interested in the work. He wants to set an interview and gives me website info so I can research their company beforehand. I ask a couple of questions, which I get answers to, and am getting excited about the position. I’ve been excited before, however, so I’m a little skeptical right now. I don’t want to blow it. Now I need to get a good nights’ sleep so I’m well rested. And I’ll practice my interview questions while I’m making dinner. I’m getting more and more excited the more I think about it!
Scam? Shtick? Sure thing?
I know things are tough out there right now. I’ve talked to people who say I’m the first call about a job they’ve had in weeks. I get that when someone calls with an opportunity, we want, so bad, for it to be real and certain and mine. But, please be careful. Remember, ‘if it sounds too good to be true, it probably it’ or, ‘if it walks like a duck, and talks like a duck, then it’s probably a duck’? There’s a reason that ‘sayings’ have become ‘sayings’. They’ve been proven to be true way too many times.
Be smart about your decisions, your contacts and your money. Make connections with people who you know have your best interests in mind and follow those leads. The right position will come along, and when it does, you’ll know you made the right decisions.
Take a look at these three scenarios and you decide:
You get a call from a recruiter with a great job for you: the location is great, doing what you love and the money is more than you’ve ever made. They love you for the position (you haven’t met them, or even phone interviewed yet) and for $25 in cash or money order, you will be guaranteed to be in the top three candidates. No, you don’t need to meet them, they’ve done their research and they really think you are the best candidate. Just send the money and we’ll get back to you.
Scam? Shtick? Sure thing?
Standard call from a recruiter with an OK opportunity (they seem to think it’s great, but I’m not all that excited about selling . . . I’m not sure what, they haven’t quite been very clear on that). I’m not sure what I’d be doing, or where I’d be working. I didn’t catch the name of the company, either, but I’m sure I’ll get their website and check them out. Hmm. Really generic looking website with no direct contact information, nor any mention of who owns the company. You really feel their sense of urgency and they keep saying that if you aren’t interested, there is someone else who would love the job. Am I in or out? Can I think about it? No? OK, I’m in! Yeah, I got a job! Or did I?
Scam? Shtick? Sure thing?
Recruiter calls, talks about my resume, tells me about a job. It’s close to my home, but the dollars are not quite what I want, but I am interested in the work. He wants to set an interview and gives me website info so I can research their company beforehand. I ask a couple of questions, which I get answers to, and am getting excited about the position. I’ve been excited before, however, so I’m a little skeptical right now. I don’t want to blow it. Now I need to get a good nights’ sleep so I’m well rested. And I’ll practice my interview questions while I’m making dinner. I’m getting more and more excited the more I think about it!
Scam? Shtick? Sure thing?
I know things are tough out there right now. I’ve talked to people who say I’m the first call about a job they’ve had in weeks. I get that when someone calls with an opportunity, we want, so bad, for it to be real and certain and mine. But, please be careful. Remember, ‘if it sounds too good to be true, it probably it’ or, ‘if it walks like a duck, and talks like a duck, then it’s probably a duck’? There’s a reason that ‘sayings’ have become ‘sayings’. They’ve been proven to be true way too many times.
Be smart about your decisions, your contacts and your money. Make connections with people who you know have your best interests in mind and follow those leads. The right position will come along, and when it does, you’ll know you made the right decisions.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Buy Michigan Now Festival
Judy and I made a field trip over to the festival in Northville today, interested in meeting fellow Michigan based business owners and seeing what products/services they had to offer. Since it was almost lunchtime, we got sidetracked by the vendors that had food products, and boy, are we glad we did!
Two vendors of note: Global Warming Salsa Co. and Chef Zachary Gourmet Blended Spices.
Global Warming Salsa Co.: Made in Michigan, featuring gourmet ingredients from around the world. ‘Global Warming’ takes their name from a play on global (as in flavors), including featuring the flavors of Africa, China, Brazil, Spain, Italy, Japan and Mexico. Global Warming Salsa Co. is also very philanthropic minded; proceeds from the salsa are going to an illustrated children’s exercise and nutrition book. For those that love their salsa, they offer fundraising activities as well. Judy and I tried the Japanese inspired salsa. While we differed in our appreciation of the salsa, we both agreed that to treat this just as a salsa would do it an injustice. Their salsa would be great on/with steak, fish, pasta, baked potatoes, in addition to tortilla chips. It has a full bodied taste and a smooth consistency, perfect for an accessory to a main dish. You can reach them at www.globalwarmingsalsa.com
Chef Zachary claims that once you taste his spices your taste buds will be spoiled. Know what? He’s right. We each bought a jar of his Chelsea Spice and headed over to Joseph’s Coney Island (in downtown Northville) for lunch. A little of his Chelsea Spice sprinkled on a greek salad did wonders for it. The traditional taste of the salad was instantly enhanced with the addition of the spice. Boy, is Chef Zachary right, your taste buds get spoiled. He suggests you try it on seafood, meet, eggs and BBQ, and I will. I’m especially excited to try it on grilled veggies. We’ve so many zucchini from our garden and this spice, with a little onion and garlic, should be awesome. We also liked the fact that there was no MSG, salt or sugar in the spice. Just the goodness of herbs, spices and peppers, all expertly combined by Chef Zachary. His spices are available online at www.chefzachary.com
Joseph’s Coney Island, by the way, deserves a mention too. We stopped in at noon, and while the place was crowded, we were able to get a table relatively quickly. We knew we were on a tight schedule, so we ordered quickly and tried to relax, almost accepting in advance that a sit down restaurant wasn’t the best way to go when you’re running against the clock. Our lunch was served in less than 10 minutes; the food and service were excellent and our waitress was humorous, friendly and efficient. My drink never sat empty, even for a minute (good thing on a really humid day like today). If only Northville wasn’t so far away from our office, we’d make Joseph’s a regular lunchtime place.
Check out the Buy Michigan Now festival. Spend Thursday at Northville Farmers Market (Northville Downs), where they will have 100 stalls featuring Michigan made products and Michigan grown produce. Festivities continue through the weekend.
Enjoy, and Buy Michigan! www.buymichigannow.com
Two vendors of note: Global Warming Salsa Co. and Chef Zachary Gourmet Blended Spices.
Global Warming Salsa Co.: Made in Michigan, featuring gourmet ingredients from around the world. ‘Global Warming’ takes their name from a play on global (as in flavors), including featuring the flavors of Africa, China, Brazil, Spain, Italy, Japan and Mexico. Global Warming Salsa Co. is also very philanthropic minded; proceeds from the salsa are going to an illustrated children’s exercise and nutrition book. For those that love their salsa, they offer fundraising activities as well. Judy and I tried the Japanese inspired salsa. While we differed in our appreciation of the salsa, we both agreed that to treat this just as a salsa would do it an injustice. Their salsa would be great on/with steak, fish, pasta, baked potatoes, in addition to tortilla chips. It has a full bodied taste and a smooth consistency, perfect for an accessory to a main dish. You can reach them at www.globalwarmingsalsa.com
Chef Zachary claims that once you taste his spices your taste buds will be spoiled. Know what? He’s right. We each bought a jar of his Chelsea Spice and headed over to Joseph’s Coney Island (in downtown Northville) for lunch. A little of his Chelsea Spice sprinkled on a greek salad did wonders for it. The traditional taste of the salad was instantly enhanced with the addition of the spice. Boy, is Chef Zachary right, your taste buds get spoiled. He suggests you try it on seafood, meet, eggs and BBQ, and I will. I’m especially excited to try it on grilled veggies. We’ve so many zucchini from our garden and this spice, with a little onion and garlic, should be awesome. We also liked the fact that there was no MSG, salt or sugar in the spice. Just the goodness of herbs, spices and peppers, all expertly combined by Chef Zachary. His spices are available online at www.chefzachary.com
Joseph’s Coney Island, by the way, deserves a mention too. We stopped in at noon, and while the place was crowded, we were able to get a table relatively quickly. We knew we were on a tight schedule, so we ordered quickly and tried to relax, almost accepting in advance that a sit down restaurant wasn’t the best way to go when you’re running against the clock. Our lunch was served in less than 10 minutes; the food and service were excellent and our waitress was humorous, friendly and efficient. My drink never sat empty, even for a minute (good thing on a really humid day like today). If only Northville wasn’t so far away from our office, we’d make Joseph’s a regular lunchtime place.
Check out the Buy Michigan Now festival. Spend Thursday at Northville Farmers Market (Northville Downs), where they will have 100 stalls featuring Michigan made products and Michigan grown produce. Festivities continue through the weekend.
Enjoy, and Buy Michigan! www.buymichigannow.com
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Eating Our Way Across Detroit
Not literally, if we get enough of a response, we may be!
Earlier in the week, Judy and I knew we wanted to go out for lunch and couldn't figure out where to go. We googled some things, tried to look up some restaurants, but nothing was hitting us. What we really wanted was someone to tell us where to go that day. Normally, we have no problem making decisions, but when it came to lunch on that day, we just couldn't come up with anything.
So, we decided to compile a list of locally owned and operated restaurants in Metro Detroit. Why not take advantage of the great local cuisine and support our local businesses as well?
Please forward your suggestions including name, type of cuisine, general location and why it's your favorite! Also, we want as broad a range as possible. Please forward the request to anyone who lives here now, or just happens to have a favorite restaurant here. We are looking for a wide variety of restaurants to promote. If you are the owner, or know the owner, please pass on that info as well. I would much rather spend my money locally!
We will be posting some of the info on our website and will be featuring restaurants (as we visit them) here on our blog. Great opportunity to promote your own business!
Enjoy! And if you'd like to 'Eat your way across Detroit', we'd love to hear your feedback too!
Earlier in the week, Judy and I knew we wanted to go out for lunch and couldn't figure out where to go. We googled some things, tried to look up some restaurants, but nothing was hitting us. What we really wanted was someone to tell us where to go that day. Normally, we have no problem making decisions, but when it came to lunch on that day, we just couldn't come up with anything.
So, we decided to compile a list of locally owned and operated restaurants in Metro Detroit. Why not take advantage of the great local cuisine and support our local businesses as well?
Please forward your suggestions including name, type of cuisine, general location and why it's your favorite! Also, we want as broad a range as possible. Please forward the request to anyone who lives here now, or just happens to have a favorite restaurant here. We are looking for a wide variety of restaurants to promote. If you are the owner, or know the owner, please pass on that info as well. I would much rather spend my money locally!
We will be posting some of the info on our website and will be featuring restaurants (as we visit them) here on our blog. Great opportunity to promote your own business!
Enjoy! And if you'd like to 'Eat your way across Detroit', we'd love to hear your feedback too!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Sometimes it does take a Village
I know this story has been passed around over the internet for years, but it still says a lot about who we are. Every one of us see ourselves in this story, in one form or another. Next time, which one will you be?
'Some people!' snorted a man standing some distance behind me in the long line at the grocery store.
'You would think the manager would pay attention and open another line,' said a woman.
I looked to the front of the line to see what the holdup was and saw a well dressed, young woman trying to get the machine to accept her credit card. No matter how many times she swiped it, the machine kept rejecting it.
'It's one of them welfare card things.'
'Damn people need to get a job like everyone else,' said the man standing behind me.
The young woman turned around to see who had made the comment.
'It was me,' he said, pointing to himself.
The young lady's face began to change expression. Almost in tears, she dropped the welfare card onto the counter and quickly walked out of the store. Everyone in the checkout line watched as she began running to her car. Never looking back, she got in and drove away.
Several minutes later a young man walked into the store. He went up to the cashier and asked if she had seen the woman.
After describing her, the cashier told him that she had run out of the store, got into her car, and drove away.
'Why would she do that?' asked the man.
Everyone in the line looked around at the fellow who had made the statement.
'I made a stupid comment about the welfare card she was using. Something I shouldn't have said. I'm sorry,' said the man.
'Well, that's bad, real bad. In fact, her brother was killed in Afghanistan two years ago.
He had three young children and she has taken on that responsibility. She's twenty years old, single, and now has three children to support,' he said in a very firm voice.
'I'm really truly sorry. I didn't know,' he replied, shaking both his hands about.
The young man asked, 'Are these paid for?' pointing to the shopping cart full of groceries.
'It wouldn't take her card,' the clerk told him.
'Do you know where she lives?' asked the man who had made the comment.
'Yes, she goes to our church.'
'Excuse me,' he said as he made his way to the front of the line.
He pulled out his wallet, took out his credit card and told the cashier, 'Please use my card, PLEASE!' The clerk took his credit card and began to ring up the young woman's groceries.
'Hold on,' said the gentleman.
He walked back to his shopping cart and began loading his own groceries onto the belt to be included. 'Come on people.'
We got three kids to help raise!' he told everyone in line.
Everyone began to place their groceries onto the fast moving belt.
A few customers began bagging the food and placing it into separate carts.
'Go back and get two big turkeys,' yelled a heavyset woman, as she looked at the man. 'NO,' yelled the man.
Everyone stopped dead in their tracks. The entire store became quiet for several seconds.
'Four turkeys,' yelled the man. Everyone began laughing and went back to work.
When all was said and done, the man paid a total of $1,646.57 for the groceries.
He then walked over to the side, pulled out his check book, and began writing a check using the bags of dog food piled near the front of the store for a writing surface. He turned around and handed the check to the young man.
'She will need a freezer and a few other things as well,' he told the man.
The young man looked at the check and said, 'This is really very generous of you.'
'No,' said the man. 'Her brother was the generous one.'
Everyone in the store had been observing the odd commotion and began to clap.
'Some people!' snorted a man standing some distance behind me in the long line at the grocery store.
'You would think the manager would pay attention and open another line,' said a woman.
I looked to the front of the line to see what the holdup was and saw a well dressed, young woman trying to get the machine to accept her credit card. No matter how many times she swiped it, the machine kept rejecting it.
'It's one of them welfare card things.'
'Damn people need to get a job like everyone else,' said the man standing behind me.
The young woman turned around to see who had made the comment.
'It was me,' he said, pointing to himself.
The young lady's face began to change expression. Almost in tears, she dropped the welfare card onto the counter and quickly walked out of the store. Everyone in the checkout line watched as she began running to her car. Never looking back, she got in and drove away.
Several minutes later a young man walked into the store. He went up to the cashier and asked if she had seen the woman.
After describing her, the cashier told him that she had run out of the store, got into her car, and drove away.
'Why would she do that?' asked the man.
Everyone in the line looked around at the fellow who had made the statement.
'I made a stupid comment about the welfare card she was using. Something I shouldn't have said. I'm sorry,' said the man.
'Well, that's bad, real bad. In fact, her brother was killed in Afghanistan two years ago.
He had three young children and she has taken on that responsibility. She's twenty years old, single, and now has three children to support,' he said in a very firm voice.
'I'm really truly sorry. I didn't know,' he replied, shaking both his hands about.
The young man asked, 'Are these paid for?' pointing to the shopping cart full of groceries.
'It wouldn't take her card,' the clerk told him.
'Do you know where she lives?' asked the man who had made the comment.
'Yes, she goes to our church.'
'Excuse me,' he said as he made his way to the front of the line.
He pulled out his wallet, took out his credit card and told the cashier, 'Please use my card, PLEASE!' The clerk took his credit card and began to ring up the young woman's groceries.
'Hold on,' said the gentleman.
He walked back to his shopping cart and began loading his own groceries onto the belt to be included. 'Come on people.'
We got three kids to help raise!' he told everyone in line.
Everyone began to place their groceries onto the fast moving belt.
A few customers began bagging the food and placing it into separate carts.
'Go back and get two big turkeys,' yelled a heavyset woman, as she looked at the man. 'NO,' yelled the man.
Everyone stopped dead in their tracks. The entire store became quiet for several seconds.
'Four turkeys,' yelled the man. Everyone began laughing and went back to work.
When all was said and done, the man paid a total of $1,646.57 for the groceries.
He then walked over to the side, pulled out his check book, and began writing a check using the bags of dog food piled near the front of the store for a writing surface. He turned around and handed the check to the young man.
'She will need a freezer and a few other things as well,' he told the man.
The young man looked at the check and said, 'This is really very generous of you.'
'No,' said the man. 'Her brother was the generous one.'
Everyone in the store had been observing the odd commotion and began to clap.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Are You 'Funemployed'?
Twice last week I read articles about ‘funemployment’. At first I wasn’t sure what to make of it, and the more I thought about it, the angrier I became (I even sent an email to one of the ‘journalists’, but I haven’t heard back yet).
Apparently ‘funemployment’ is a term used for someone who is unemployed and instead of spending their days looking for work they are having the time of their lives: golfing, surfing, camping, traveling, reading and going to the beach. How can they afford this, you ask? Well, maybe they have saved some money and are using that, or maybe they are tapping into their 401(k), or maybe they accepted a lucrative buyout, or maybe their parents have a little (OK, lot) of extra spending cash, or as one of the articles suggest: they are using their unemployment checks.
Excuse me, but did you just say ‘unemployment checks?’
So, let me get this straight. You, as a reporter/journalist, just interviewed several people who have recently been laid off and they told you this? They volunteered that they are having the time of their lives, travelling, playing golf, going to movies, etc., instead of looking for work? And that they are ‘entitled’ to the unemployment checks? Hmph. I need to think about this again.
I think I understand the arguments for why you say these people are doing it:
“I’ve been working a long time and all my past employers have paid into the unemployment fund, and since I’m not unemployed by my own doing, I’m going to sit back and collect the money. Technically, I earned it and now I’m going to take it. The economy isn’t picking up yet anyway, so why not enjoy the time off while I have it? Things will turn around soon enough and I’ll have to go back to a cube-farm and spend all my days indoors again. Then, if I want to take some time off, I’ll have to use my vacation time and that’s not fair. I’ve worked so hard for the past few years and now I want a break. I want to enjoy all the things I didn’t do when I was working. It’s only $450 (in CA and WA, apparently) per week anyway, it’s only paying the bills, I’m not getting rich off it.”
Let’s break this down:
‘I’ve been working a long time and all my past employers have paid into the unemployment fund’ – That is true, all employers pay a percentage of taxes on their employees wages. Only a small percentage, however, and the balance comes from your state’s budget. I could be wrong, but I think California has been in the news lately for being close to bankrupt as a state. I wouldn’t consider it a good thing for someone to keep drawing unemployment checks off the state in that case. Where is your responsibility to your community and the well being of the great state you live in?
‘Since I’m not unemployed by my own doing, I’m going to sit back and collect the money’ – Partly true. Many times arrogance is coupled with entitlement. Meaning, that yes, you are unemployed, and while you don’t think it is because of anything you did, you could be wrong. It’s a lot easier to tell people, even yourself, that you are now unemployed due to the ‘economy’ or bad business decisions by your former employer. It’s a lot harder to be introspective and admit perhaps this had something to do with you. Set the ego aside and take a real good look at the situation. You can’t make any personal improvements if you don’t admit that you need them. Not to mention, if you are collecting unemployment, but not looking for a job, isn’t that constituted as fraud?
‘The economy isn’t picking up yet anyway, so why not enjoy the time off while I have it?’ – The economy may not be picking up yet, but people are still getting hired. Some estimates are that even during an economic downturn there is a 20 – 25% turnover in employees. If you don’t take advantage of even that small percentage, you may be missing out in the long run. If your dream job is something that comes around only in a blue moon, then you had better be on the lookout every day to see of one has come available. If you choose to spend your time golfing, you may miss this great opportunity. It’ll be a lot harder to explain an extended absence from the workforce when you do run out of savings and unemployment. Recruiters and HR staff know what the markets look like and can probably spot someone who has been taking advantage of their ‘paid leave’.
‘Things will turn around soon enough and I’ll have to go back to a cube-farm and spend all my days indoors again.’ - Who says you have to go back to the same thing you came from? If you are going to take advantage of anything, let it be the opportunity to explore other industries and careers. Instead of going back into a cube-farm, take a look at what you love to do and explore that. Love the outdoors? Work in Parks & Rec. Love working with/helping people? Work in retail or at your library. Think outside the box to find something that you will love and pursue that. If you have to call it a cube-farm, it’s not the place for you. Chances are you won’t excel in that environment anyway. Your spirit will be better in an environment where it can grow and thrive.
‘I’ve worked so hard for the past few years and now I want a break. I want to enjoy all the things I didn’t do when I was working.’ – Don’t we all. Seriously, use your time wisely and you can still spend a week hiking or camping or golfing. Plan accordingly and you may even be able to take two weeks off together and travel to Europe. Who knows? If your employer knows you are a committed, happy and enthusiastic employee they may make allowances. If you grump about you all the time and about all the things you are missing out on because you are working, your boss may not be so inclined to work with you. One more point, if you maintain a good work/life balance, you will not feel the need to give things up when you are working. There are many ways to create this balance, and what constitutes a balance can vary from one person to another. The important thing is to figure out what is important to you and to plan for it. And, yup, that is what vacation time is for.
‘It’s only $450 (in CA and WA, apparently) per week anyway, it’s only paying the bills, I’m not getting rich off it.’ – Only $450? That’s a lot of money. For some people, that is all they would have made in the week, not on unemployment. Unemployment is only meant to help you get by until a job. It should, in no way, take the place of a real paycheck. It should also, in no way, be enough money to pay all your bills and then some.
Where would the incentive be to get a job if you could live off unemployment? I’ll take the job over the ‘funemployment’ any day. While I do enjoy a vacation or simply time on my own, I still value a job and my contributions to my community. To quote Aaron Tippin: “If you'll check out my paycheck; Well, you'll see that there ain't that much on it; But ev'ry single penny I'm paid, I got it honest.”
Apparently ‘funemployment’ is a term used for someone who is unemployed and instead of spending their days looking for work they are having the time of their lives: golfing, surfing, camping, traveling, reading and going to the beach. How can they afford this, you ask? Well, maybe they have saved some money and are using that, or maybe they are tapping into their 401(k), or maybe they accepted a lucrative buyout, or maybe their parents have a little (OK, lot) of extra spending cash, or as one of the articles suggest: they are using their unemployment checks.
Excuse me, but did you just say ‘unemployment checks?’
So, let me get this straight. You, as a reporter/journalist, just interviewed several people who have recently been laid off and they told you this? They volunteered that they are having the time of their lives, travelling, playing golf, going to movies, etc., instead of looking for work? And that they are ‘entitled’ to the unemployment checks? Hmph. I need to think about this again.
I think I understand the arguments for why you say these people are doing it:
“I’ve been working a long time and all my past employers have paid into the unemployment fund, and since I’m not unemployed by my own doing, I’m going to sit back and collect the money. Technically, I earned it and now I’m going to take it. The economy isn’t picking up yet anyway, so why not enjoy the time off while I have it? Things will turn around soon enough and I’ll have to go back to a cube-farm and spend all my days indoors again. Then, if I want to take some time off, I’ll have to use my vacation time and that’s not fair. I’ve worked so hard for the past few years and now I want a break. I want to enjoy all the things I didn’t do when I was working. It’s only $450 (in CA and WA, apparently) per week anyway, it’s only paying the bills, I’m not getting rich off it.”
Let’s break this down:
‘I’ve been working a long time and all my past employers have paid into the unemployment fund’ – That is true, all employers pay a percentage of taxes on their employees wages. Only a small percentage, however, and the balance comes from your state’s budget. I could be wrong, but I think California has been in the news lately for being close to bankrupt as a state. I wouldn’t consider it a good thing for someone to keep drawing unemployment checks off the state in that case. Where is your responsibility to your community and the well being of the great state you live in?
‘Since I’m not unemployed by my own doing, I’m going to sit back and collect the money’ – Partly true. Many times arrogance is coupled with entitlement. Meaning, that yes, you are unemployed, and while you don’t think it is because of anything you did, you could be wrong. It’s a lot easier to tell people, even yourself, that you are now unemployed due to the ‘economy’ or bad business decisions by your former employer. It’s a lot harder to be introspective and admit perhaps this had something to do with you. Set the ego aside and take a real good look at the situation. You can’t make any personal improvements if you don’t admit that you need them. Not to mention, if you are collecting unemployment, but not looking for a job, isn’t that constituted as fraud?
‘The economy isn’t picking up yet anyway, so why not enjoy the time off while I have it?’ – The economy may not be picking up yet, but people are still getting hired. Some estimates are that even during an economic downturn there is a 20 – 25% turnover in employees. If you don’t take advantage of even that small percentage, you may be missing out in the long run. If your dream job is something that comes around only in a blue moon, then you had better be on the lookout every day to see of one has come available. If you choose to spend your time golfing, you may miss this great opportunity. It’ll be a lot harder to explain an extended absence from the workforce when you do run out of savings and unemployment. Recruiters and HR staff know what the markets look like and can probably spot someone who has been taking advantage of their ‘paid leave’.
‘Things will turn around soon enough and I’ll have to go back to a cube-farm and spend all my days indoors again.’ - Who says you have to go back to the same thing you came from? If you are going to take advantage of anything, let it be the opportunity to explore other industries and careers. Instead of going back into a cube-farm, take a look at what you love to do and explore that. Love the outdoors? Work in Parks & Rec. Love working with/helping people? Work in retail or at your library. Think outside the box to find something that you will love and pursue that. If you have to call it a cube-farm, it’s not the place for you. Chances are you won’t excel in that environment anyway. Your spirit will be better in an environment where it can grow and thrive.
‘I’ve worked so hard for the past few years and now I want a break. I want to enjoy all the things I didn’t do when I was working.’ – Don’t we all. Seriously, use your time wisely and you can still spend a week hiking or camping or golfing. Plan accordingly and you may even be able to take two weeks off together and travel to Europe. Who knows? If your employer knows you are a committed, happy and enthusiastic employee they may make allowances. If you grump about you all the time and about all the things you are missing out on because you are working, your boss may not be so inclined to work with you. One more point, if you maintain a good work/life balance, you will not feel the need to give things up when you are working. There are many ways to create this balance, and what constitutes a balance can vary from one person to another. The important thing is to figure out what is important to you and to plan for it. And, yup, that is what vacation time is for.
‘It’s only $450 (in CA and WA, apparently) per week anyway, it’s only paying the bills, I’m not getting rich off it.’ – Only $450? That’s a lot of money. For some people, that is all they would have made in the week, not on unemployment. Unemployment is only meant to help you get by until a job. It should, in no way, take the place of a real paycheck. It should also, in no way, be enough money to pay all your bills and then some.
Where would the incentive be to get a job if you could live off unemployment? I’ll take the job over the ‘funemployment’ any day. While I do enjoy a vacation or simply time on my own, I still value a job and my contributions to my community. To quote Aaron Tippin: “If you'll check out my paycheck; Well, you'll see that there ain't that much on it; But ev'ry single penny I'm paid, I got it honest.”
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Celebrate June as National Rose Month with Blumz
Recently, I contacted one of the owners of locally owned and operated Blumz, in Downtown Detroit and “Fashionable” Ferndale, requesting permission to write about his company on our blog. I’d love to highlight a local business for National Rose Month, so I did (very) little research and called a local florist we had just learned about. I asked him if there was anything special he would like me to mention about his company and his response was really very modest. He simply asked for us to mention that they are a full service floral and gift shop.
No problem . . .until I looked further into their website and discovered that they had achieved quite a bit in their seven years in business. So, I’ll mention their full range of services (floral arrangements, gift baskets, candle arrangements, funeral, wedding, corporate affairs) but I also want to highlight just a few of their other nods:
2006 – Received “Spirit of Detroit” award from Detroit City Council
2006 – Received “Beautification Award” from City of Ferndale
2007 – Selected as “Retailer of the Year 2007” by Michigan Florist Association, per the Detroit News
2007 - National Association of Catering Executives (NACE) Award for “Best Table Design”
2007 - NACE Award for Best Table Design
For those of us who are ‘florally challenged’, they even offer classes. Grab a couple of your girlfriends/coworkers/sisters/cousins and ask for a private class. Who wouldn’t love to learn from the best!
On a personal note, I love that Blumz gives back to the community. Not only do they support GLBT activities and organizations, but they also support their local community. We were turned on to Blumz through a networking event held in their Ferndale location. I’m glad we went, and I’m glad we learned about Blumz. Sometimes we get so caught up in our own lives that we forget about things going on to those around us. Give the gift of a personalized gift basket, or an arrangement of someone’s favorite flowers, or something simple, just because. Check out Blumz.com and be prepared to be impressed.
And for those of you, like me, always wondered the meanings of the rose colors:
Red - True Love
Blue - Mystery, attaining the impossible
White - Eternal love, silence or innocence, virtue, purity
Black – Death, hatred, farewell, rejuvenation or rebirth
Yellow – Friendship of dying love, jealousy or infidelity
Pink – Grace
Dark Pink – Gratitude
Light Pink – Desire, passion, joy of life, youth, energy
Coral/Orange – Desire, passion
Lavender – Love at first sight
Red/White together – Unity
Red/Yellow together – Joy, happiness, and excitement
Check out www.blumz.com or contact them directly at their Ferndale location 248-398-5130 or Downtown Detroit at 313-964-5777.
No problem . . .until I looked further into their website and discovered that they had achieved quite a bit in their seven years in business. So, I’ll mention their full range of services (floral arrangements, gift baskets, candle arrangements, funeral, wedding, corporate affairs) but I also want to highlight just a few of their other nods:
2006 – Received “Spirit of Detroit” award from Detroit City Council
2006 – Received “Beautification Award” from City of Ferndale
2007 – Selected as “Retailer of the Year 2007” by Michigan Florist Association, per the Detroit News
2007 - National Association of Catering Executives (NACE) Award for “Best Table Design”
2007 - NACE Award for Best Table Design
For those of us who are ‘florally challenged’, they even offer classes. Grab a couple of your girlfriends/coworkers/sisters/cousins and ask for a private class. Who wouldn’t love to learn from the best!
On a personal note, I love that Blumz gives back to the community. Not only do they support GLBT activities and organizations, but they also support their local community. We were turned on to Blumz through a networking event held in their Ferndale location. I’m glad we went, and I’m glad we learned about Blumz. Sometimes we get so caught up in our own lives that we forget about things going on to those around us. Give the gift of a personalized gift basket, or an arrangement of someone’s favorite flowers, or something simple, just because. Check out Blumz.com and be prepared to be impressed.
And for those of you, like me, always wondered the meanings of the rose colors:
Red - True Love
Blue - Mystery, attaining the impossible
White - Eternal love, silence or innocence, virtue, purity
Black – Death, hatred, farewell, rejuvenation or rebirth
Yellow – Friendship of dying love, jealousy or infidelity
Pink – Grace
Dark Pink – Gratitude
Light Pink – Desire, passion, joy of life, youth, energy
Coral/Orange – Desire, passion
Lavender – Love at first sight
Red/White together – Unity
Red/Yellow together – Joy, happiness, and excitement
Check out www.blumz.com or contact them directly at their Ferndale location 248-398-5130 or Downtown Detroit at 313-964-5777.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Job Loss and Grieving
In 1969 Elisabeth Kubler-Ross published “On Death and Dying”, bringing, for the first time, a mainstream awareness to the human side of terminal illnesses and the like. When she identified her ‘five stages’ of grief’, I’ll bet she had no idea that 40 years later they would become ‘mainstream’ when talking about job loss.
We’ve seen news reports, read articles, listened to others ask if it’s really that bad and wiped a few tears, unfortunately with increasing frequency, over the past few years. Every time a news reporter puts a microphone in someone’s face and asks ‘what is next for you?’ I just cringe! How can they possibly know? None of this information has processed yet! If we were aware of, and educated others, on how Kubler-Ross’ five stages of grief can be applied to just about any personal loss, we may have a better understanding and preparedness for such occurrences.
I first learned about Kubler-Ross back in college and this theory has stayed with me. On a personal level, they have given me a better understanding of how I was feeling at the time of loss and whether or not it was ‘normal’. Throughout the years, I’ve leaned on this theory to get through some tough times. Here are the five stages:
1. Denial – Usually the initial response. Temporary in nature. ‘Not me, you must be wrong’.
2. Anger – Strong feelings, albeit misplaced, of rage and envy. Often directed towards anyone/anything who symbolizes what was lost. Spouses/partners who are still working usually take the brunt of the anger.
3. Bargaining – Strong negotiation to somehow postpone or delay said activity. Most ‘negotiations’ are made with a ‘higher power’ in exchange for ‘one more chance’. Often puts into perspective the true value of someone/something compared to other, more materialistic, things.
4. Depression – The beginnings and comprehensions of what just happened and what lies ahead. In situations of job loss, we may distance ourselves from former co-workers and friends as the pain of ‘what we used to have’ is too great. Trying to cheer someone up during this stage robs them of the chance to come to terms with the situation on their own.
5. Acceptance – Fifth and final stage of grief. Understanding and peace with the situation. When relating to death, this is the stage where people have accepted they are dying. They often want to be alone and may seem emotionally detached. In terms of job loss, this stage often brings peace and acceptance, quickly followed by the desire to figure out ‘what’s next’. This is when words of wisdom and help in the job search will be welcome. Not before. You’ll be met with resistance and anger if you offer it too soon.
Things have come a long way since 1969. Some things, fortunately, haven’t changed so much. These stages are just as valid today as they were when Kubler-Ross first put her theory into words. Today, we need to acknowledge that there is a grieving process for any sort of loss. If we don’t , we are doing a great disservice to ourselves or others we know going through it. Take a minute and think about these stages and where one may be. Only then can we truly help ourselves and our neighbors.
We’ve seen news reports, read articles, listened to others ask if it’s really that bad and wiped a few tears, unfortunately with increasing frequency, over the past few years. Every time a news reporter puts a microphone in someone’s face and asks ‘what is next for you?’ I just cringe! How can they possibly know? None of this information has processed yet! If we were aware of, and educated others, on how Kubler-Ross’ five stages of grief can be applied to just about any personal loss, we may have a better understanding and preparedness for such occurrences.
I first learned about Kubler-Ross back in college and this theory has stayed with me. On a personal level, they have given me a better understanding of how I was feeling at the time of loss and whether or not it was ‘normal’. Throughout the years, I’ve leaned on this theory to get through some tough times. Here are the five stages:
1. Denial – Usually the initial response. Temporary in nature. ‘Not me, you must be wrong’.
2. Anger – Strong feelings, albeit misplaced, of rage and envy. Often directed towards anyone/anything who symbolizes what was lost. Spouses/partners who are still working usually take the brunt of the anger.
3. Bargaining – Strong negotiation to somehow postpone or delay said activity. Most ‘negotiations’ are made with a ‘higher power’ in exchange for ‘one more chance’. Often puts into perspective the true value of someone/something compared to other, more materialistic, things.
4. Depression – The beginnings and comprehensions of what just happened and what lies ahead. In situations of job loss, we may distance ourselves from former co-workers and friends as the pain of ‘what we used to have’ is too great. Trying to cheer someone up during this stage robs them of the chance to come to terms with the situation on their own.
5. Acceptance – Fifth and final stage of grief. Understanding and peace with the situation. When relating to death, this is the stage where people have accepted they are dying. They often want to be alone and may seem emotionally detached. In terms of job loss, this stage often brings peace and acceptance, quickly followed by the desire to figure out ‘what’s next’. This is when words of wisdom and help in the job search will be welcome. Not before. You’ll be met with resistance and anger if you offer it too soon.
Things have come a long way since 1969. Some things, fortunately, haven’t changed so much. These stages are just as valid today as they were when Kubler-Ross first put her theory into words. Today, we need to acknowledge that there is a grieving process for any sort of loss. If we don’t , we are doing a great disservice to ourselves or others we know going through it. Take a minute and think about these stages and where one may be. Only then can we truly help ourselves and our neighbors.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Facebook Faux Pas? Really?
Facebook has been a part of my vocabulary and my life for just about the past year. I’ve learned so much from it, many things I didn’t know I needed to know. I’ve learned how to ‘friend’. I’ve learned how to ‘ignore’. And I’ve learned what it feels like to be ‘unfriended’. According to my grammar check, I’m not using those words right, but have I got news for my grammar check! Not only am I using them correctly in this blog, I’ve learned how to do them correctly on Facebook! Well, almost . . .
I first heard of Facebook when my brother sent me an email that said, “I found Shelley on Facebook, you should reconnect with her!” I didn’t know what Facebook was but, since he’s my younger brother and technically I should be smarter than him, I pretended to know what he was talking about. So I googled Facebook and checked Snopes.com for the scam-factor, then signed up for it and off I went.
I read up on what you should and should not do on Facebook, especially if you have a public profile. I found webpage after webpage on what you shouldn’t post: underage drinking, where the next party is, inappropriate pictures or anything negative about my job or the people I work with or my in-laws. What I couldn’t find, however, is how you should do things. Had I found that, I might not have made some critical Facebook errors.
One of the first connections/mistakes I made was through a WMU alumni group. I found someone I went to college with and sent him a ‘friend’ request. He accepted, made pleasantries, then weeks went by and I hadn’t heard from him or get any more updates. That is when I learned that I had been ‘unfriended’. Initially, it hurt my feelings, but seriously, we hadn’t communicated in the past 20 years and had one class together in college, so what did I expect? It’s no different than running into someone you haven’t seen awhile and saying, ‘let’s get together soon’ and then he/she doesn’t call. My semi-faux pas? ‘Friending’ someone who I could have just sent a note to. That way, if he had an interest in ‘friending’ me, he could have done so. At least he would have known I was interested, right? Do I even really care? 20 years later? Not really, but I am still talking about it, so maybe?
Another possible faux pas I made on Facebook was deleting a comment that someone had made to my ‘status update’. Well, I didn’t think it was a ‘faux pas’, but apparently I should only delete if it’s offensive or bordering on illegal? I’m not a negative person and the comment was really negative and altered the whole tone of my status update. And since it is MY update, I can make that call, right?
I haven’t figured this one out yet, but do my husband and I have to ‘friend’ all the same people? Just because he is friends with someone we both know, does that mean I have to ‘friend’ them too? If I ‘ignore’ one of his relatives ‘friend’ requests, am I committing a major faux pas? In my world . . . well, I haven’t decided yet.
I’ll just sit on this one and continue to read other blogs until I find out.
I first heard of Facebook when my brother sent me an email that said, “I found Shelley on Facebook, you should reconnect with her!” I didn’t know what Facebook was but, since he’s my younger brother and technically I should be smarter than him, I pretended to know what he was talking about. So I googled Facebook and checked Snopes.com for the scam-factor, then signed up for it and off I went.
I read up on what you should and should not do on Facebook, especially if you have a public profile. I found webpage after webpage on what you shouldn’t post: underage drinking, where the next party is, inappropriate pictures or anything negative about my job or the people I work with or my in-laws. What I couldn’t find, however, is how you should do things. Had I found that, I might not have made some critical Facebook errors.
One of the first connections/mistakes I made was through a WMU alumni group. I found someone I went to college with and sent him a ‘friend’ request. He accepted, made pleasantries, then weeks went by and I hadn’t heard from him or get any more updates. That is when I learned that I had been ‘unfriended’. Initially, it hurt my feelings, but seriously, we hadn’t communicated in the past 20 years and had one class together in college, so what did I expect? It’s no different than running into someone you haven’t seen awhile and saying, ‘let’s get together soon’ and then he/she doesn’t call. My semi-faux pas? ‘Friending’ someone who I could have just sent a note to. That way, if he had an interest in ‘friending’ me, he could have done so. At least he would have known I was interested, right? Do I even really care? 20 years later? Not really, but I am still talking about it, so maybe?
Another possible faux pas I made on Facebook was deleting a comment that someone had made to my ‘status update’. Well, I didn’t think it was a ‘faux pas’, but apparently I should only delete if it’s offensive or bordering on illegal? I’m not a negative person and the comment was really negative and altered the whole tone of my status update. And since it is MY update, I can make that call, right?
I haven’t figured this one out yet, but do my husband and I have to ‘friend’ all the same people? Just because he is friends with someone we both know, does that mean I have to ‘friend’ them too? If I ‘ignore’ one of his relatives ‘friend’ requests, am I committing a major faux pas? In my world . . . well, I haven’t decided yet.
I’ll just sit on this one and continue to read other blogs until I find out.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Jumping to Conclusions
Every new job posting brings hundreds of new resumes. Having been the one to send my resume out in to cyberspace, I know how frustrating it can be, so we set up an automated response for every submittal. While we can’t do it personally, we still wanted to let candidates know their resume was received.
More often than not, we get a ‘thank you for the thank you’ type of email from candidates. For some reason, however, some people take offense to this. Last week alone, I received three negative emails in response to this. The opinion, in short, was that getting an automated response was worse than hearing nothing, figuring, apparently, that there is no ‘personal’ attention behind us or our positions. That we are, instead, just a ‘generic’, automated company that churns out one robotic position after another. Wow, at least they got to know us; who we are and what we are all about.
Had they taken the time to investigate our company and our values, they would have seen that our ‘generic’ response is to let people know that their submittal was not in vain and that we do appreciate them. Our goal is to help as many people get back to work as possible and we are firm in our belief that, working together, we can really make a difference and put Detroit back on the map.
Had they taken the time to talk to us, they would have known that we started this business with all the passion and commitment needed to make a difference. They would have understood our matchmaking; finding that strong match between the culture of the company and the personality of the employee. We can teach computer skills but we can’t teach someone to be something they are not.
Had they taken the time to read our blog, they would have learned that we are committed to our clients, our employees and our community. We offer so much of ourselves to help things get back on track that sometimes there isn’t enough left for our families and friends. We encourage, we mentor and we give hope. We offer personal stories of how we are coping in these times, all in effort to say that ‘We get it’. We understand what things are like out there.
We also understand that in order to make things happen, sometimes we need a little extra ‘technical’ help. So, if that automated response, offends you, I am sorry. It is not intended to offend anyone. Instead, it’s an attempt to say that we feel your pain and we are glad you reached out to us. Sometimes you are right in jumping to conclusions and sometimes you aren’t. It’s a shame if you don’t get the chance to find out.
More often than not, we get a ‘thank you for the thank you’ type of email from candidates. For some reason, however, some people take offense to this. Last week alone, I received three negative emails in response to this. The opinion, in short, was that getting an automated response was worse than hearing nothing, figuring, apparently, that there is no ‘personal’ attention behind us or our positions. That we are, instead, just a ‘generic’, automated company that churns out one robotic position after another. Wow, at least they got to know us; who we are and what we are all about.
Had they taken the time to investigate our company and our values, they would have seen that our ‘generic’ response is to let people know that their submittal was not in vain and that we do appreciate them. Our goal is to help as many people get back to work as possible and we are firm in our belief that, working together, we can really make a difference and put Detroit back on the map.
Had they taken the time to talk to us, they would have known that we started this business with all the passion and commitment needed to make a difference. They would have understood our matchmaking; finding that strong match between the culture of the company and the personality of the employee. We can teach computer skills but we can’t teach someone to be something they are not.
Had they taken the time to read our blog, they would have learned that we are committed to our clients, our employees and our community. We offer so much of ourselves to help things get back on track that sometimes there isn’t enough left for our families and friends. We encourage, we mentor and we give hope. We offer personal stories of how we are coping in these times, all in effort to say that ‘We get it’. We understand what things are like out there.
We also understand that in order to make things happen, sometimes we need a little extra ‘technical’ help. So, if that automated response, offends you, I am sorry. It is not intended to offend anyone. Instead, it’s an attempt to say that we feel your pain and we are glad you reached out to us. Sometimes you are right in jumping to conclusions and sometimes you aren’t. It’s a shame if you don’t get the chance to find out.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Faces Not Numbers
Over the past couple of weeks, WCSXs’ Deminski & Doyle have been putting together a campaign of ‘faces’ of the auto industry here in Detroit. I believe they have over 3000 faces on this 100 foot long banner. Today they are unveiling it at the Chrysler Sterling Heights Assembly plant at 16 Mile and Van Dyke; then Thursday, Washington DC. Deminski & Doyle will be doing their show live from Washington. The theme song for this campaign is, quite appropriately, Bob Segers’ “Feel Like a Number”.
So, those are the facts to the campaign. Behind every great ‘campaign’ there is a great story. The story, in this case, is a story told by many thousands of families in the Metro Detroit area and across the country. Across our region are generations of families involved with the auto industry. Over the years their hard work ‘created’ the middle class, put kids through college that may not have otherwise had the opportunity and generously spent their disposable income in our community.
Fast forward to the present and our situation looks very different. Our middle class is slowly disappearing. We’ve seen housing values drop, and while we’d love to move to that house we’ve had our eye on and now we can ‘afford’, we can’t sell our house and we can’t get financing. We are driving 10 year old cars and have over 130,000 miles because we can’t get financing to buy a new vehicle.
Kids who had dreams of going away to college are now looking, at best, at local community colleges. Not that these colleges aren’t good, but living in a dorm room on a college campus is half of the experience. We learned how to make responsible decisions and live on our own. We learned how to manage our time, make new friends, and become the person we wanted to be. We can still do that, but now we are doing that while living with our parents, having dinner at 5:00, and a curfew of 11:00 (remember “our house, our rules”?).
The disposable income we used to have now goes to paying the rent, mortgage, utility bills and food. No more spending, other than the necessities, which unfortunately takes a toll on the businesses in the area. Eating out has been replaced by more home cooked meals. Nights out have been replaced by movie nights (ON DEMAND is a great option) at home. Popping pop corn is a great treat, but it just doesn’t compare to movie theatre popcorn.
This story, however, has an unknown ending. At this point, it’s up to us to do what we can to make a difference and bring back those ‘luxuries’ we once knew. We can buy America, we can buy local and we can reinvent ourselves to take advantage of the industries that are hiring. If that means going back to school and learning a new trade, then we must do it. We should utilize the programs that are coming available through this new administration to get ourselves, our families and our communities back on track. The warmer weather will allow us to spend less on our heat and more daylight hours will allow us to spend less on our electric bills. Maybe we’ll even do a weekend camping trip up north and enjoy what Michigan has to offer. If we’re feeling real crazy, we may have a 4th of July party and invite our family, friends and neighbors. We may even learn what other people are doing to make a difference during this time and it’ll give us some ideas on what we can do different.
While not an ending, it can be a new chapter in a new direction. Like those ‘create your own’ books from when we were kids, each choice we make opens new doors and new opportunities. The ‘ending’ may be unknown, but we can make choices along the way that can, and will, make a difference.
So, those are the facts to the campaign. Behind every great ‘campaign’ there is a great story. The story, in this case, is a story told by many thousands of families in the Metro Detroit area and across the country. Across our region are generations of families involved with the auto industry. Over the years their hard work ‘created’ the middle class, put kids through college that may not have otherwise had the opportunity and generously spent their disposable income in our community.
Fast forward to the present and our situation looks very different. Our middle class is slowly disappearing. We’ve seen housing values drop, and while we’d love to move to that house we’ve had our eye on and now we can ‘afford’, we can’t sell our house and we can’t get financing. We are driving 10 year old cars and have over 130,000 miles because we can’t get financing to buy a new vehicle.
Kids who had dreams of going away to college are now looking, at best, at local community colleges. Not that these colleges aren’t good, but living in a dorm room on a college campus is half of the experience. We learned how to make responsible decisions and live on our own. We learned how to manage our time, make new friends, and become the person we wanted to be. We can still do that, but now we are doing that while living with our parents, having dinner at 5:00, and a curfew of 11:00 (remember “our house, our rules”?).
The disposable income we used to have now goes to paying the rent, mortgage, utility bills and food. No more spending, other than the necessities, which unfortunately takes a toll on the businesses in the area. Eating out has been replaced by more home cooked meals. Nights out have been replaced by movie nights (ON DEMAND is a great option) at home. Popping pop corn is a great treat, but it just doesn’t compare to movie theatre popcorn.
This story, however, has an unknown ending. At this point, it’s up to us to do what we can to make a difference and bring back those ‘luxuries’ we once knew. We can buy America, we can buy local and we can reinvent ourselves to take advantage of the industries that are hiring. If that means going back to school and learning a new trade, then we must do it. We should utilize the programs that are coming available through this new administration to get ourselves, our families and our communities back on track. The warmer weather will allow us to spend less on our heat and more daylight hours will allow us to spend less on our electric bills. Maybe we’ll even do a weekend camping trip up north and enjoy what Michigan has to offer. If we’re feeling real crazy, we may have a 4th of July party and invite our family, friends and neighbors. We may even learn what other people are doing to make a difference during this time and it’ll give us some ideas on what we can do different.
While not an ending, it can be a new chapter in a new direction. Like those ‘create your own’ books from when we were kids, each choice we make opens new doors and new opportunities. The ‘ending’ may be unknown, but we can make choices along the way that can, and will, make a difference.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Breaking Bad Habits
My bad habit started last fall sometime and got worse through the cold, snowy winter (and spring) we had this year. After awhile I didn’t even think about it; I just did it. It just became a habit and now it’s a hard habit to break. But I do need to address it. Not just for me and my family, but for others out there who are going through the same thing. There should be support groups; that may have helped me a little. But instead, a sunny, warm spring day last week proved to be my breakthrough.
Up until last week, I had stopped shopping. Yup, I said it. I stopped shopping. Except for going to Meijer and getting occasional car maintenance stuff, I stopped shopping. I remember buying my son a new Transformer sheet and comforter set sometime last spring, and I vaguely remember Christmas shopping this past year, but other than that . . .nothing.
So, last week, Judy and I decided to get out and enjoy the sun and walk into downtown Birmingham. It’s only two blocks, so, why not? We crossed Woodward and started peeking in windows as we made our way further downtown. As we passed a store called ‘suhm.thing’, we stuck our heads in and took a look around. At first we did really good, just browsing, not really looking at anything to buy, then Judy picked up a very elegant book mark (she was looking for a gift for her aunt) and suddenly our whole outlook changed. For a very reasonable price (I don’t want to put the actual amount here in case her aunt reads our blog) she found a very beautiful gift. As we looked around the store a little more, their traffic started to pick up. Friday afternoon in Birmingham is usually a pretty good time for business and this day was no exception. I ended up getting a small birthday present for a friend and even a little gift for myself (I earned it!).
As silly as it sounds, I missed shopping. We have spent the past several months being so focused on saving money, cutting coupons, not eating out and asking ‘do we need this or just want it?’. I even hesitated to go to Sam’s Club with my husband because I didn’t want to see something I wanted and not be able to get it.
But, if I ease back into it, it might not be so bad. I think it’s a habit I can break, if I try hard enough. Maybe if I had loosened my wallet up just a little the coney island down the street wouldn’t have closed, or my favorite store for baby clothes (babystyle.com) may not have filed for Chapter 11 protection, nor the specialty shoe store that is so good for those with medical conditions. And if I loosen my wallet up and get out a little more maybe others are doing the same thing? Maybe if we all did it a little more (just a little more, don’t go crazy, that’s a bad habit of a whole different kind!) we could boost the economy in a little microcosm called our community.
Up until last week, I had stopped shopping. Yup, I said it. I stopped shopping. Except for going to Meijer and getting occasional car maintenance stuff, I stopped shopping. I remember buying my son a new Transformer sheet and comforter set sometime last spring, and I vaguely remember Christmas shopping this past year, but other than that . . .nothing.
So, last week, Judy and I decided to get out and enjoy the sun and walk into downtown Birmingham. It’s only two blocks, so, why not? We crossed Woodward and started peeking in windows as we made our way further downtown. As we passed a store called ‘suhm.thing’, we stuck our heads in and took a look around. At first we did really good, just browsing, not really looking at anything to buy, then Judy picked up a very elegant book mark (she was looking for a gift for her aunt) and suddenly our whole outlook changed. For a very reasonable price (I don’t want to put the actual amount here in case her aunt reads our blog) she found a very beautiful gift. As we looked around the store a little more, their traffic started to pick up. Friday afternoon in Birmingham is usually a pretty good time for business and this day was no exception. I ended up getting a small birthday present for a friend and even a little gift for myself (I earned it!).
As silly as it sounds, I missed shopping. We have spent the past several months being so focused on saving money, cutting coupons, not eating out and asking ‘do we need this or just want it?’. I even hesitated to go to Sam’s Club with my husband because I didn’t want to see something I wanted and not be able to get it.
But, if I ease back into it, it might not be so bad. I think it’s a habit I can break, if I try hard enough. Maybe if I had loosened my wallet up just a little the coney island down the street wouldn’t have closed, or my favorite store for baby clothes (babystyle.com) may not have filed for Chapter 11 protection, nor the specialty shoe store that is so good for those with medical conditions. And if I loosen my wallet up and get out a little more maybe others are doing the same thing? Maybe if we all did it a little more (just a little more, don’t go crazy, that’s a bad habit of a whole different kind!) we could boost the economy in a little microcosm called our community.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
The Case of the ‘Cisco Fatty’
Surprisingly, someone in California didn’t get the memo about potential employers checking out social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. The following ‘tweet’ was posted sometime last week:
“Cisco just offered me a job! Now I have to weigh the utility of a fatty paycheck against the daily commute to San Jose and hating the work.”
Apparently, a ‘Tim Levad’ from Cisco saw the tweet and responded, “Who is the hiring manager. I’m sure they would love to know that you will hate the work. We here at Cisco are versed in the web.”
The research I’ve done doesn’t say whether or not he/she got the job, and in all reality, it could turn out to be just an urban legend. Maybe The Case of the Cisco Fatty will never be solved . . . and, unfortunately, there will probably be a sequel sometime in the near future. Hopefully not by the same author.
“Cisco just offered me a job! Now I have to weigh the utility of a fatty paycheck against the daily commute to San Jose and hating the work.”
Apparently, a ‘Tim Levad’ from Cisco saw the tweet and responded, “Who is the hiring manager. I’m sure they would love to know that you will hate the work. We here at Cisco are versed in the web.”
The research I’ve done doesn’t say whether or not he/she got the job, and in all reality, it could turn out to be just an urban legend. Maybe The Case of the Cisco Fatty will never be solved . . . and, unfortunately, there will probably be a sequel sometime in the near future. Hopefully not by the same author.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
When it's OK to be stubborn . . .
I said I wasn't going to do it, and I'm not going to do it. I've made a commitment to not do it and even though it's hard not to, I'm not doing it. I am NOT doing it. I would encourage you to NOT do it either.
What am I talking about?
Buying in to all the media coverage about our economy. I'm not buying into it. Before I get a ton of emails telling me how tough things are out there I will say this: we've cut back our personal/professional spending too. I get that part (Seriously, I eat bologna sandwiches for lunch EVERY DAY. You can ask anyone I've worked with for the past year, I eat bologna sandwiches EVERY DAY.) We, at The Staffing Company, have decided to create our own economy, and we are doing just that. We are operating under the principle of "business as usual".
And guess what? We do have clients that are hiring. In every industry, including automotive. Our clients know that to stay competitive and productive in our current situation, we need to have the best of the best on our staff. Having employees on our payroll who contribute to the bottom line, and the overall success of the comapny, is what we strive for each day.
In the past couple of weeks it seems like things have opened up a little bit. I know it will continue and pretty soon we'll be adding more and more new positions.
I'm ready and committed. Are you?
What am I talking about?
Buying in to all the media coverage about our economy. I'm not buying into it. Before I get a ton of emails telling me how tough things are out there I will say this: we've cut back our personal/professional spending too. I get that part (Seriously, I eat bologna sandwiches for lunch EVERY DAY. You can ask anyone I've worked with for the past year, I eat bologna sandwiches EVERY DAY.) We, at The Staffing Company, have decided to create our own economy, and we are doing just that. We are operating under the principle of "business as usual".
And guess what? We do have clients that are hiring. In every industry, including automotive. Our clients know that to stay competitive and productive in our current situation, we need to have the best of the best on our staff. Having employees on our payroll who contribute to the bottom line, and the overall success of the comapny, is what we strive for each day.
In the past couple of weeks it seems like things have opened up a little bit. I know it will continue and pretty soon we'll be adding more and more new positions.
I'm ready and committed. Are you?
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
A Story for the Times
This story is adapted from a Q & A on LinkedIn (Saurabh Kumar). I've changed some of it, but the moral is the same.
"This story is about a man who was selling hotdogs by the roadside. He was illiterate. His ears and eyes had problems. He sold a lot of hotdogs. He was smart enough to offer some attractive schemes to increase his sales. His sales and profit went up. He ordered more and more raw materials and buns. He recruited more supporting staff to serve his increase in customers. He started offering home deliveries. Eventually he bought a bigger and better stove.
His son, who had recently graduated from a prestigious college, joined his father in running the business. Then something strange happened. One day the son asked, "Dad, aren't you aware of the great recession that is coming our way?" The father replied, "No, but tell me about it." The son said, "The international situation is terrible. The domestic situation is even worse. We should be prepared for the coming bad times." The man thought that since his son had been to college, read the papers, listened to the radio and watched TV, he ought to know and his advice should not be taken lightly.
The next day, the father cut down his raw material order and buns, took down the colorful signboard, removed all of his specials and was no longer as enthusiastic. He reduced his staff by giving layoffs. Very soon, fewer and fewer people bothered to stop by his hotdog stand. His sales decreased rapidly, as did the profit.
The father said to his son, "Son, you were right". "We are in the middle of a recession and crisis. I am glad you warned me ahead of time."
How many times do we confuse intelligence with good judgment? Choose your advisors carefully, but use your own judgment. A person or an organization will survive forever, if they have the 5 Cs Character, Commitment, Conviction, Courtesy, Courage."
I've always operated under the belief that we create our own economy. Yes, I read the papers, listen to the news and watch the evening news channels. I hear what they are saying, but I'm choosing not to listen to it. I would perfer, instead, to (metaphorically speaking) keep selling hotdogs as I have done in the past. With continued good service, quality candidates and affordable pricing, we will continue to do business as we have done. Am I being unrealistic? Depends on who you ask. If I react as the business owner did in the story, I may as well pack it in. Or, I can continue to offer clients the same, if not better, service/employees as we have done.
I am going to do my part to keep things rolling forward. I'm done listening to the dismal reports, and instead, will focus on the future of our community. Hotdogs, anyone?
"This story is about a man who was selling hotdogs by the roadside. He was illiterate. His ears and eyes had problems. He sold a lot of hotdogs. He was smart enough to offer some attractive schemes to increase his sales. His sales and profit went up. He ordered more and more raw materials and buns. He recruited more supporting staff to serve his increase in customers. He started offering home deliveries. Eventually he bought a bigger and better stove.
His son, who had recently graduated from a prestigious college, joined his father in running the business. Then something strange happened. One day the son asked, "Dad, aren't you aware of the great recession that is coming our way?" The father replied, "No, but tell me about it." The son said, "The international situation is terrible. The domestic situation is even worse. We should be prepared for the coming bad times." The man thought that since his son had been to college, read the papers, listened to the radio and watched TV, he ought to know and his advice should not be taken lightly.
The next day, the father cut down his raw material order and buns, took down the colorful signboard, removed all of his specials and was no longer as enthusiastic. He reduced his staff by giving layoffs. Very soon, fewer and fewer people bothered to stop by his hotdog stand. His sales decreased rapidly, as did the profit.
The father said to his son, "Son, you were right". "We are in the middle of a recession and crisis. I am glad you warned me ahead of time."
How many times do we confuse intelligence with good judgment? Choose your advisors carefully, but use your own judgment. A person or an organization will survive forever, if they have the 5 Cs Character, Commitment, Conviction, Courtesy, Courage."
I've always operated under the belief that we create our own economy. Yes, I read the papers, listen to the news and watch the evening news channels. I hear what they are saying, but I'm choosing not to listen to it. I would perfer, instead, to (metaphorically speaking) keep selling hotdogs as I have done in the past. With continued good service, quality candidates and affordable pricing, we will continue to do business as we have done. Am I being unrealistic? Depends on who you ask. If I react as the business owner did in the story, I may as well pack it in. Or, I can continue to offer clients the same, if not better, service/employees as we have done.
I am going to do my part to keep things rolling forward. I'm done listening to the dismal reports, and instead, will focus on the future of our community. Hotdogs, anyone?
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Beware of SCAMS!!
I received an email at 2:21 am this morning, allegedly from one of my potential employees and in part it read, "I'm sorry I didn't tell you I was going to Europe . . . I've lost my purse (and money) and I need $950 wired to me to clear up the hotel bill so I can come home".
Obviously, we've been hearing about scams like this lately, so I wasn't surprised to get one of these. I was, however, surprised that the dollar amount ($950) was SO low that it was almost believeable. Obviously, I didn't send the money, and I notified this person of the email and its' contents.
The irony of that email, to me, is this: Do you think those that are still perpetuating these scams listen to the news or read the papers? For someone who is currently out of work, and desperately looking for something, to be traveling to Europe without letting everyone know is ridiculous. I may have believed it if the email had, instead, read something like, "please send me $45 for my electric/gas bill" or "please send me $30 for groceries". That would have been more realistic and may have, unfortunately, generated responses from some of the recipients.
I'm glad the scammers haven't figured that out yet, and maybe I just gave them the idea. I hope that if someone gets an 'email' from me that says "I'm in Europe and I'm sorry I didn't tell you", they immediately delete it.
If/when I have the wherewithal to go to Europe, believe me, everyone will know about it.
Obviously, we've been hearing about scams like this lately, so I wasn't surprised to get one of these. I was, however, surprised that the dollar amount ($950) was SO low that it was almost believeable. Obviously, I didn't send the money, and I notified this person of the email and its' contents.
The irony of that email, to me, is this: Do you think those that are still perpetuating these scams listen to the news or read the papers? For someone who is currently out of work, and desperately looking for something, to be traveling to Europe without letting everyone know is ridiculous. I may have believed it if the email had, instead, read something like, "please send me $45 for my electric/gas bill" or "please send me $30 for groceries". That would have been more realistic and may have, unfortunately, generated responses from some of the recipients.
I'm glad the scammers haven't figured that out yet, and maybe I just gave them the idea. I hope that if someone gets an 'email' from me that says "I'm in Europe and I'm sorry I didn't tell you", they immediately delete it.
If/when I have the wherewithal to go to Europe, believe me, everyone will know about it.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
The Six Human Needs of Customers
For inspiration on Customer Service, I turned to my personal favorites, Marilyn Suttle and Lori Jo Vest. I am reprinting an article from their blog, with permission, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
The Six Human Needs of Customers
By Marilyn Suttle
Since the start of mankind, self-help gurus have sought to define what it is that makes human beings tick. I was particularly struck with the list of “Six Human Needs” that Anthony Robbins discusses. Since customers are human beings too, I rewrote the six human needs specifically geared to customers. As you read each customer need, ask yourself – “Do I offer this to my customers?”
1. Certainty – Customers go where they are certain that a service will meet their expectations. When a customer feels certain that your service is predictably fast or friendly, the products will work, the food they order will taste good every time - it adds a level of comfort that puts your business at the top of their list.
2. Variety – It might seem a contradiction, but while customers want certainty, they also seek out variety. A certain amount of uncertainty or mystery adds excitement and adventure to the customer experience. Whether it’s wondering what the “soup of the day” might be, or selecting from an expanded variety of predictably excellent products, customers feel energized when their experience with you brings them a bit of unpredictable delight.
3. Significance – Customers prefer doing business with companies that value them. They can tell when you don’t treat them as if they are important. Offer authentic appreciation for your customers business. Seek out customer feedback to show that customer opinions matter to you. When you respond to their feedback it makes an even bigger positive impression that will keep customers coming back. What you focus on expands. Describe what your customer does that makes it a pleasure to work with them.
4. Connection – Do your customers feel like they are part of the community of your business? In other words, do they have a sense of belonging? Emotional connection drives decisions. Making eye contact and offering a greeting the moment your client walks through the door makes an instant connection. Taking a person down the aisle to find a product is more connecting that simply telling them – “It’s down aisle five.” Develop a professional relationship with your clients rather than an impersonal exchange. Customers want to feel cared for and cared about. People prefer to do business with people they like.
5. Growth – To improve and excel is an uplifting experience. Do you educate your customers and help them become better at using your products or services? Make it easy for your customers to gain competencies by offering an educational component to your business. Notice where it could be helpful to offer instruct or an in depth special report. Encourage your sales and training staff to offer added information that will help customers gain insights. This is the age of the educated consumer, when you contribute to their growth, you become a trusted resource.
6. Contribution – Customers are people, and people have a natural desire to make a difference. Thank your customers for getting their paperwork in on time, or for responding quickly to your follow-up email or phone calls. Put their contributing behaviors into words. Acknowledge their part in the process of a job successfully done. Let them know how much it helped you to do a good job for them by experiencing their accuracy, friendliness, or follow through.
What do you think? What will you do this week to apply one of the six human needs of customers? How might doing so improve your business?
Written by Marilyn Suttle on her customer service blog www.LoveThemUp.com. Marilyn Suttle and Lori Jo Vest coauthored: Who’s Your Gladys: How to Turn Even Your Most Difficult Customer into Your Biggest Fan – release date is projected September 2009. Email her at Marilyn@MarilynSuttle.com.
The Six Human Needs of Customers
By Marilyn Suttle
Since the start of mankind, self-help gurus have sought to define what it is that makes human beings tick. I was particularly struck with the list of “Six Human Needs” that Anthony Robbins discusses. Since customers are human beings too, I rewrote the six human needs specifically geared to customers. As you read each customer need, ask yourself – “Do I offer this to my customers?”
1. Certainty – Customers go where they are certain that a service will meet their expectations. When a customer feels certain that your service is predictably fast or friendly, the products will work, the food they order will taste good every time - it adds a level of comfort that puts your business at the top of their list.
2. Variety – It might seem a contradiction, but while customers want certainty, they also seek out variety. A certain amount of uncertainty or mystery adds excitement and adventure to the customer experience. Whether it’s wondering what the “soup of the day” might be, or selecting from an expanded variety of predictably excellent products, customers feel energized when their experience with you brings them a bit of unpredictable delight.
3. Significance – Customers prefer doing business with companies that value them. They can tell when you don’t treat them as if they are important. Offer authentic appreciation for your customers business. Seek out customer feedback to show that customer opinions matter to you. When you respond to their feedback it makes an even bigger positive impression that will keep customers coming back. What you focus on expands. Describe what your customer does that makes it a pleasure to work with them.
4. Connection – Do your customers feel like they are part of the community of your business? In other words, do they have a sense of belonging? Emotional connection drives decisions. Making eye contact and offering a greeting the moment your client walks through the door makes an instant connection. Taking a person down the aisle to find a product is more connecting that simply telling them – “It’s down aisle five.” Develop a professional relationship with your clients rather than an impersonal exchange. Customers want to feel cared for and cared about. People prefer to do business with people they like.
5. Growth – To improve and excel is an uplifting experience. Do you educate your customers and help them become better at using your products or services? Make it easy for your customers to gain competencies by offering an educational component to your business. Notice where it could be helpful to offer instruct or an in depth special report. Encourage your sales and training staff to offer added information that will help customers gain insights. This is the age of the educated consumer, when you contribute to their growth, you become a trusted resource.
6. Contribution – Customers are people, and people have a natural desire to make a difference. Thank your customers for getting their paperwork in on time, or for responding quickly to your follow-up email or phone calls. Put their contributing behaviors into words. Acknowledge their part in the process of a job successfully done. Let them know how much it helped you to do a good job for them by experiencing their accuracy, friendliness, or follow through.
What do you think? What will you do this week to apply one of the six human needs of customers? How might doing so improve your business?
Written by Marilyn Suttle on her customer service blog www.LoveThemUp.com. Marilyn Suttle and Lori Jo Vest coauthored: Who’s Your Gladys: How to Turn Even Your Most Difficult Customer into Your Biggest Fan – release date is projected September 2009. Email her at Marilyn@MarilynSuttle.com.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Responsible Job Searching
"Accountability breeds response-ability." – Stephen E. Covey
In this employers’ market, it is critical for those looking for positions to take responsibility for their actions. Being accountable for your submittal, your resume and the information in it is an immediate reflection of you, the potential employee.
Employers are receiving on average 400 – 700 resumes depending on the opening. Immediately discounted are those responses in which the candidate did not follow directions. Just an oversight on your part? Maybe, but that oversight may have cost you the position.
In talking with other recruiters, here are some of the most common ‘errors’ that may knock you out of the running:
1. Your cover letter, or introductory email, is addressed to the wrong person, wrong company and for the wrong position. Attention to detail is critical here. Some recruiters will even respond to you, letting you know you made the error. Acknowledging their response, and resubmitting the resume is a great idea. Doing nothing on your part is not the way to go.
2. Providing the information requested in the job posting. If the posting says to ‘respond with #28574 in the subject line’ then do so. Not putting that in may discount you immediately as you either did not read the posting clearly, or chose not to do it. Either way, it goes to ‘attention to detail’ and ‘ability to follow directions’.
3. Not providing salary requirements when asked to do so. While your salary requirements may or may not meet that of the available position, if you don’t provide them upon request, you will never know. There is another qualified candidate who did provide the information and may be moving on to the next level.
4. Cute or offensive email addresses. Create a new email address specifically for your job search if necessary. You are applying for a job here, not trying to hook up with someone. Some recruiters, or hiring managers, may bypass your resume based on this alone.
5. Submitting resumes with limited contact info. Omitting your name on a resume is a critical mistake on the part of the job seeker.
6. When returning a phone call and have to leave a message, make sure you speak slowly and clearly, including first and last name, as well as your phone number. If you just say, ‘this is Linda’, they could have called three other Linda’s that day and won’t be able to distinguish who you are. Don’t give them a reason not to call you back.
While the ultimate decision is up to the recruiter or hiring manager, you can help yourself make it through the initial phases by paying attention and following directions. By being responsible, you just may increase your ‘response-ability’.
In this employers’ market, it is critical for those looking for positions to take responsibility for their actions. Being accountable for your submittal, your resume and the information in it is an immediate reflection of you, the potential employee.
Employers are receiving on average 400 – 700 resumes depending on the opening. Immediately discounted are those responses in which the candidate did not follow directions. Just an oversight on your part? Maybe, but that oversight may have cost you the position.
In talking with other recruiters, here are some of the most common ‘errors’ that may knock you out of the running:
1. Your cover letter, or introductory email, is addressed to the wrong person, wrong company and for the wrong position. Attention to detail is critical here. Some recruiters will even respond to you, letting you know you made the error. Acknowledging their response, and resubmitting the resume is a great idea. Doing nothing on your part is not the way to go.
2. Providing the information requested in the job posting. If the posting says to ‘respond with #28574 in the subject line’ then do so. Not putting that in may discount you immediately as you either did not read the posting clearly, or chose not to do it. Either way, it goes to ‘attention to detail’ and ‘ability to follow directions’.
3. Not providing salary requirements when asked to do so. While your salary requirements may or may not meet that of the available position, if you don’t provide them upon request, you will never know. There is another qualified candidate who did provide the information and may be moving on to the next level.
4. Cute or offensive email addresses. Create a new email address specifically for your job search if necessary. You are applying for a job here, not trying to hook up with someone. Some recruiters, or hiring managers, may bypass your resume based on this alone.
5. Submitting resumes with limited contact info. Omitting your name on a resume is a critical mistake on the part of the job seeker.
6. When returning a phone call and have to leave a message, make sure you speak slowly and clearly, including first and last name, as well as your phone number. If you just say, ‘this is Linda’, they could have called three other Linda’s that day and won’t be able to distinguish who you are. Don’t give them a reason not to call you back.
While the ultimate decision is up to the recruiter or hiring manager, you can help yourself make it through the initial phases by paying attention and following directions. By being responsible, you just may increase your ‘response-ability’.
Friday, February 6, 2009
What is your style of dress?
Styles of dress can vary dramatically from one person to the next. Without realizing it we are sending a message to a prospective employer by our dress the second we walk into the office. Rule of thumb for an interview? Business Professional. The experts say there is NO exception to this rule if you want to work in the business world. But is your perception of "Business Professional" the same as those experts?
Below is a summary of some different styles of dress and whether or not they are appropriate for an interview. Please keep in mind the descriptions below are for interviews for office positions.
BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL - A business suit. NO exceptions. Either pants or skirt is acceptable as long as the jacket matches the other piece. For an interview, 'separates' are not considered business professional, no matter how good the outfit looks. Simple shoes, simple jewlery, simple makeup, simple hair are all the perfect compliment to the crisp, clean lines of a business suit. This type of dress should be mandatory for interviews. A dress, as opposed to a business suit, is NOT considered Business Professional and should never be worn to an office interview.
BUSINESS READY - One step below the Business Professional level. This would include the same hair, makeup, shoes (no open toes or sandals) and jewlery as the previous level, but it would allow for separates. This type of dress would be appropriate if the potential employer says 'we are business causual' or 'we don't dress up'. That is the only time dressing in anything less than a suit would be acceptable for an interview. This level, or Business Casual, is one in which wearing a dress with a jacket would be considered appropriate.
BUSINESS CASUAL - Dress shirt or sweater and slacks. No khakis or jeans in a business casual environment. This type of dress is NEVER acceptable for an interview.
CASUAL - Anything less than Business Casual is considered 'Casual'. This category would include whatever you would wear to the grocery store, running errands or on the weekends. This type of dress is NEVER acceptable for an interview.
WHAT NOT TO WEAR - Ripped jeans, anything that shows skin or undergarments, flip flops or other outdoor footwear, visible tattoos or piercings, sweat suits of any kinds, clothing with any sort of writing on it, incorrectly sized clothing, evening wear (bar or dressy) or clothing that your son/daughter would wear.
Your dress is a reflection of your work, at least in the minds of a prospective employer. How do you want to be perceived?
Below is a summary of some different styles of dress and whether or not they are appropriate for an interview. Please keep in mind the descriptions below are for interviews for office positions.
BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL - A business suit. NO exceptions. Either pants or skirt is acceptable as long as the jacket matches the other piece. For an interview, 'separates' are not considered business professional, no matter how good the outfit looks. Simple shoes, simple jewlery, simple makeup, simple hair are all the perfect compliment to the crisp, clean lines of a business suit. This type of dress should be mandatory for interviews. A dress, as opposed to a business suit, is NOT considered Business Professional and should never be worn to an office interview.
BUSINESS READY - One step below the Business Professional level. This would include the same hair, makeup, shoes (no open toes or sandals) and jewlery as the previous level, but it would allow for separates. This type of dress would be appropriate if the potential employer says 'we are business causual' or 'we don't dress up'. That is the only time dressing in anything less than a suit would be acceptable for an interview. This level, or Business Casual, is one in which wearing a dress with a jacket would be considered appropriate.
BUSINESS CASUAL - Dress shirt or sweater and slacks. No khakis or jeans in a business casual environment. This type of dress is NEVER acceptable for an interview.
CASUAL - Anything less than Business Casual is considered 'Casual'. This category would include whatever you would wear to the grocery store, running errands or on the weekends. This type of dress is NEVER acceptable for an interview.
WHAT NOT TO WEAR - Ripped jeans, anything that shows skin or undergarments, flip flops or other outdoor footwear, visible tattoos or piercings, sweat suits of any kinds, clothing with any sort of writing on it, incorrectly sized clothing, evening wear (bar or dressy) or clothing that your son/daughter would wear.
Your dress is a reflection of your work, at least in the minds of a prospective employer. How do you want to be perceived?
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Why Small Business Owners Make Bad Hiring Decisions
Why Small Business Owners Make Bad Hiring Decisions
By Minesh Baxi
If you are a small business owner, quite often you are the only person who is making the hiring decisions. It is up to you to define job descriptions, collect resumes, interview and then decide who will be the best fit for the positions you need filled.
Obviously, all of this is over and above the daily requirements that you face to gain clients, manage the resources and make sure you are profitable. Doesn't it sound like a daunting task?
You have to be superhuman!
Quite often hiring comes across as an activity that does not need as much attention as possibly, courting a new client. With the never-ending list of things to be done, it is understandable as well.
Here are 5 reasons why small business owners fail to make good hiring decisions:
Lack of time: The business owner is swamped as discussed above and is unable to take the time to make sure that he is making the best hiring decision.
Needs a body right now: Typically a small business owner does not have enough back-up staff to handles tasks within the organization if an employee leaves. This creates a crisis and the employer is forced to make decisions too quickly. As you know - haste makes waste.
Too emotionally close to the decision: Due to lack of enough people to help make a hiring decision, the employer is the key decision maker and maybe, the only decision maker. Unfortunately this puts the employer too close to the candidate and the process of hiring. Hence the employer may make decisions which are more based on emotion than information.
No formal training in hiring: Hiring seems to be almost like an additional, unwanted and unimportant task which befalls a manager. So very few employers go through enough training to understand the intricacies of hiring.
Lack of funds: The employer is usually working with a limited budget and sacrifices getting hiring support from a consultant, background checks, use of assessments and proper legal counsel and ends up hiring a candidate that may have shown up as a problem employee if a more detailed investigation had taken place.
About the Author: Minesh Baxi is the co-author of "Stop Hiring Losers" and you can download free one hour audio overview of the book at http://www.StopHiringLosers.com
By Minesh Baxi
If you are a small business owner, quite often you are the only person who is making the hiring decisions. It is up to you to define job descriptions, collect resumes, interview and then decide who will be the best fit for the positions you need filled.
Obviously, all of this is over and above the daily requirements that you face to gain clients, manage the resources and make sure you are profitable. Doesn't it sound like a daunting task?
You have to be superhuman!
Quite often hiring comes across as an activity that does not need as much attention as possibly, courting a new client. With the never-ending list of things to be done, it is understandable as well.
Here are 5 reasons why small business owners fail to make good hiring decisions:
Lack of time: The business owner is swamped as discussed above and is unable to take the time to make sure that he is making the best hiring decision.
Needs a body right now: Typically a small business owner does not have enough back-up staff to handles tasks within the organization if an employee leaves. This creates a crisis and the employer is forced to make decisions too quickly. As you know - haste makes waste.
Too emotionally close to the decision: Due to lack of enough people to help make a hiring decision, the employer is the key decision maker and maybe, the only decision maker. Unfortunately this puts the employer too close to the candidate and the process of hiring. Hence the employer may make decisions which are more based on emotion than information.
No formal training in hiring: Hiring seems to be almost like an additional, unwanted and unimportant task which befalls a manager. So very few employers go through enough training to understand the intricacies of hiring.
Lack of funds: The employer is usually working with a limited budget and sacrifices getting hiring support from a consultant, background checks, use of assessments and proper legal counsel and ends up hiring a candidate that may have shown up as a problem employee if a more detailed investigation had taken place.
About the Author: Minesh Baxi is the co-author of "Stop Hiring Losers" and you can download free one hour audio overview of the book at http://www.StopHiringLosers.com
Thursday, January 15, 2009
According to the Dalai Lama . . .
My page-a-day calendar, "Insight from the Dalai Lama", offers really good advice for last Tuesday:
Follow the three R's:
Respect for self
Respect for others
Responsibility for all your actions.
I think that says it all . . .
Follow the three R's:
Respect for self
Respect for others
Responsibility for all your actions.
I think that says it all . . .
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Hope and Faith
I had an interesting conversation this morning with a young man who used to work for us. He thanked me, initially, for believing in him; in placing him in a position, we gave him hope. He said that our finding him a position made him look at things a little differently; for the first time in a long time, he saw that people do care about others, and that he now had a way he could start to take care of his family again.
Then, he told me that he was downsized from his position last Friday and I couldn’t help but feel the devastation in his voice. He had spent the better part of the past year paying off bills, saving a little money, taking care of some personal issues, and preparing for his family’s future; and now this, effective immediately. Get your things and you’re done; leave now. What a terrible way to end something that you thought was so good? I understand the ‘safety and security’ reasoning behind it, don’t get me wrong, but where is the humanity in treating your employees like that?!?
I had no words of wisdom to offer; I don’t think he was looking for that. All I did for him was listen to his story and let him know I would do what I could to help him out. I tried to offer hope, but ‘hope’ won’t pay his bills right now. It could, however, help make things a little easier.
I’ve been working on (and off) this entry all day and have not come up with a good story or anecdote on how to lessen his pain, nor do I have a solution or resolution for him. I’ll still try to find him another position; I gave him my word I would do what I could for him. But, if I don’t find a position for him, I do hope he finds solid ground to land on. I know he will do well. He’s motivated, honest and hardworking. He knows who he is; he’ll continue to be true to himself. Maybe at the end of the day, that is what it is all about.
Then, he told me that he was downsized from his position last Friday and I couldn’t help but feel the devastation in his voice. He had spent the better part of the past year paying off bills, saving a little money, taking care of some personal issues, and preparing for his family’s future; and now this, effective immediately. Get your things and you’re done; leave now. What a terrible way to end something that you thought was so good? I understand the ‘safety and security’ reasoning behind it, don’t get me wrong, but where is the humanity in treating your employees like that?!?
I had no words of wisdom to offer; I don’t think he was looking for that. All I did for him was listen to his story and let him know I would do what I could to help him out. I tried to offer hope, but ‘hope’ won’t pay his bills right now. It could, however, help make things a little easier.
I’ve been working on (and off) this entry all day and have not come up with a good story or anecdote on how to lessen his pain, nor do I have a solution or resolution for him. I’ll still try to find him another position; I gave him my word I would do what I could for him. But, if I don’t find a position for him, I do hope he finds solid ground to land on. I know he will do well. He’s motivated, honest and hardworking. He knows who he is; he’ll continue to be true to himself. Maybe at the end of the day, that is what it is all about.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
'Dear Abby' on dress code
An interesting letter to 'Dear Abby', I hope she doesn't mind me posting it here!
Dear Abby,
I work for a large multinational company, and I am often shocked at the way people dress. Although there are clear business/casual guidelines, these lines are crossed by men and women alike. Talks behind closed doors have no effect. Sending out the corporate dress code to the staff has yielded no change in behavior.
I finally consulted the HR department and came up with an approved solution. The dress code was again sent out to all employees in my department, with the warning that the next violation would mean being sent home and deducting the time as a vacation day.
Sure enough, "Disco Dolly" showed up in a sheer, low-cut, sleeveless blouse with a micro-mini skirt and strappy sandals. When I sent her home, she complained that she was saving her vacation days. I told her she had violated the company's dress code -- again.
I also pointed out that her chances of promotion were now compromised thanks to the demonstration she had given that following simple instructions was beyond her capabilities. If you want to be regarded as a serious professional, dress like one! Some "suggestions":
1. DRESS FOR SUCCESS, not sex. Women should not dress like streetwalkers. Leave the sexy, short, filmy dresses, cleavage-baring blouses and spaghetti straps for your personal life. This is an office, not a cocktail party.
2. COVER UP. No sandals or designer flip-flops. We don't want to see your pedicure, your toe rings, the crust on your heels, or smell your feet.
3. MAKE IT FIT. Anything that hugs the body too tightly is not right for the office. We have a woman working here who looks like a sausage stuffed in a floral polyester casing. It's hard to take her seriously. The same goes for a man whose pants are so tight that you can tell his religion. Ditto for pants that are so loose and low-slung you can see his underwear or her thong.
4. DON'T POLLUTE. By this I mean go easy on the fragrance. Some people have breathing problems and allergies. Do not pollute the office with a scent that arrives 10 minutes before you do and lingers hours after you've gone. This applies to men as well as women.
5. BATHE. There seems to be a new "natural" cult popping up whose adherents believe that washing removes vital oils from the skin and should be avoided. This phenomenon is more often, but not always, a male habit. Anyone in close contact with others should bathe or shower DAILY. -- TRYING TO RUN A BUSINESS IN FLORIDA
DEAR TRYING: I'm willing to wager that your letter will be posted on millions of bulletin boards in the business world. Your "suggestions" make good sense. While many companies allow employees to dress down on "casual Fridays," any business that wants the people it hires to be taken seriously should impress upon them that they must present themselves in a professional manner. Some companies do this in the form of an employee manual that lays it out in black and white. Because your directive was ignored, you were right to let "Disco Dolly" know there would be a penalty for noncompliance.
Dear Abby,
I work for a large multinational company, and I am often shocked at the way people dress. Although there are clear business/casual guidelines, these lines are crossed by men and women alike. Talks behind closed doors have no effect. Sending out the corporate dress code to the staff has yielded no change in behavior.
I finally consulted the HR department and came up with an approved solution. The dress code was again sent out to all employees in my department, with the warning that the next violation would mean being sent home and deducting the time as a vacation day.
Sure enough, "Disco Dolly" showed up in a sheer, low-cut, sleeveless blouse with a micro-mini skirt and strappy sandals. When I sent her home, she complained that she was saving her vacation days. I told her she had violated the company's dress code -- again.
I also pointed out that her chances of promotion were now compromised thanks to the demonstration she had given that following simple instructions was beyond her capabilities. If you want to be regarded as a serious professional, dress like one! Some "suggestions":
1. DRESS FOR SUCCESS, not sex. Women should not dress like streetwalkers. Leave the sexy, short, filmy dresses, cleavage-baring blouses and spaghetti straps for your personal life. This is an office, not a cocktail party.
2. COVER UP. No sandals or designer flip-flops. We don't want to see your pedicure, your toe rings, the crust on your heels, or smell your feet.
3. MAKE IT FIT. Anything that hugs the body too tightly is not right for the office. We have a woman working here who looks like a sausage stuffed in a floral polyester casing. It's hard to take her seriously. The same goes for a man whose pants are so tight that you can tell his religion. Ditto for pants that are so loose and low-slung you can see his underwear or her thong.
4. DON'T POLLUTE. By this I mean go easy on the fragrance. Some people have breathing problems and allergies. Do not pollute the office with a scent that arrives 10 minutes before you do and lingers hours after you've gone. This applies to men as well as women.
5. BATHE. There seems to be a new "natural" cult popping up whose adherents believe that washing removes vital oils from the skin and should be avoided. This phenomenon is more often, but not always, a male habit. Anyone in close contact with others should bathe or shower DAILY. -- TRYING TO RUN A BUSINESS IN FLORIDA
DEAR TRYING: I'm willing to wager that your letter will be posted on millions of bulletin boards in the business world. Your "suggestions" make good sense. While many companies allow employees to dress down on "casual Fridays," any business that wants the people it hires to be taken seriously should impress upon them that they must present themselves in a professional manner. Some companies do this in the form of an employee manual that lays it out in black and white. Because your directive was ignored, you were right to let "Disco Dolly" know there would be a penalty for noncompliance.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
It's not what you know or who you know, it's who knows you
It used to be such a common saying; "It's not what you know, but who you know". In today's ever-changing marketplace, we have to add "it's who knows you' to make that statement legitimate.
True, most say you get your next job through referrals. To a point, anyway. Just because you know, or are thinking about someone, doesn't mean they are thinking about you.
When looking for a new position, it is important that YOU come to mind first for the person who will be hiring. When working with a staffing company, or several of them, it's important to stay in touch ON A REGULAR BASIS with your recruiter. Just because you met once doesn't mean you are guaranteed a job. It may take some time and the more you stay in touch with your recruiter; the more your recruiter gets to know you, the more likely they will be able to find a position for you. The better your recruiter knows you, the easier it will be to place you. That is the key in developing a successful relationship with a staffing company.
Discuss with your recruiter(s) how often to make contact. And then stick to the plan! Make sure you come to mind first with your recruiters; it could make all the difference!
True, most say you get your next job through referrals. To a point, anyway. Just because you know, or are thinking about someone, doesn't mean they are thinking about you.
When looking for a new position, it is important that YOU come to mind first for the person who will be hiring. When working with a staffing company, or several of them, it's important to stay in touch ON A REGULAR BASIS with your recruiter. Just because you met once doesn't mean you are guaranteed a job. It may take some time and the more you stay in touch with your recruiter; the more your recruiter gets to know you, the more likely they will be able to find a position for you. The better your recruiter knows you, the easier it will be to place you. That is the key in developing a successful relationship with a staffing company.
Discuss with your recruiter(s) how often to make contact. And then stick to the plan! Make sure you come to mind first with your recruiters; it could make all the difference!
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