I had a second interview this morning and I think it went pretty well. They have another candidate they are seeing (for a second time) on Thursday afternoon, so I won't hear anything until next week. Bummer, I was really hoping to get a job for Christmas. Oh well, I guess I'll get another drop on my unemployment debit card for Christmas -- a job -- money on my card, I won't be greedy. I'll take what I can get.
If you didn't see yesterday's post, then you won't understand my frustration with this search process. I was so discouraged after learning that I won't know until next week whether I have a job or not, and especially after yesterday's search turned up a whole lotta nuttin, I just didn't search at all today. I wrapped gifts and watched Christmas movies all day.
Too bad that doesn't pay better. I've said, if searching for a job paid better, I do this for a living. Unfortunately, it doesn't so I can't.
I'll let you know tomorrow if there are any decent opportunities out there, although I doubt it. The closer to Christmas, the slimmer the pickins. Maybe after the 1st of the year. I'll keep you posted. In the meantime, remember -- better me than you!!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Dec. 20th Another OMG Moment!
Okay, okay! I haven't posted in a while. I do have a "second" interview tomorrow, so at least one company was impressed enough to call me back. Not my typical "thanks but no thanks" email response -- and that is even before they meet me. After the interview --- silence! I guess companies are afraid to contact a candidate because they might catch whatever disease the candidate has that have put them on unemployment.
HELLO FOLKS ... unemployment is not a contagious disease. Well, hmmm, maybe it is contagious. I mean, really, where there is one case you'll usually find five more ready to follow quickly.
Anyway, I digress. Even though I have a second interview scheduled, I still need to continue my active job search in order to keep my unemployment benefits flowing....well, they are more like a trickle, but I still want to get the payments. I can't even say check because you are paid on a "prepaid debit card" basis. As long as you file your continued claim, they drop a little money on your card and you can use it pay for things anywhere VISA is accepted. Cool, huh? Not so cool I want to keep on it for the long term, but for now, it's kinda nice. Actually, I had a nurse at my daughter's pediatricians office say how much she liked the picture on the card. So much better than the ugly card her bank had given her. I told her, "lose your job; it's the unemployment card." She quickly retracted the comment and said she liked it but not enough to get her own. Agreed!
So, while searching the job posting today, I came across this doosey. It is for a Director of Marketing. Director mind you. I believe that is a pretty high level position, usually above manager. So, I was intrigued and read the entire post.
Wow, this is great ... they want 10+ years experience, so the competition won't be so bad. Plus they want all kinds of marketing program knowledge, so I won't be up against all the college grads for this one. Cool.
So, here is the entire posting direct from Craigslist:
HELLO FOLKS ... unemployment is not a contagious disease. Well, hmmm, maybe it is contagious. I mean, really, where there is one case you'll usually find five more ready to follow quickly.
Anyway, I digress. Even though I have a second interview scheduled, I still need to continue my active job search in order to keep my unemployment benefits flowing....well, they are more like a trickle, but I still want to get the payments. I can't even say check because you are paid on a "prepaid debit card" basis. As long as you file your continued claim, they drop a little money on your card and you can use it pay for things anywhere VISA is accepted. Cool, huh? Not so cool I want to keep on it for the long term, but for now, it's kinda nice. Actually, I had a nurse at my daughter's pediatricians office say how much she liked the picture on the card. So much better than the ugly card her bank had given her. I told her, "lose your job; it's the unemployment card." She quickly retracted the comment and said she liked it but not enough to get her own. Agreed!
So, while searching the job posting today, I came across this doosey. It is for a Director of Marketing. Director mind you. I believe that is a pretty high level position, usually above manager. So, I was intrigued and read the entire post.
Wow, this is great ... they want 10+ years experience, so the competition won't be so bad. Plus they want all kinds of marketing program knowledge, so I won't be up against all the college grads for this one. Cool.
So, here is the entire posting direct from Craigslist:
Due to tremendous and dynamic growth, EDGAR Online, Inc. is currently searching for a Director of Marketing/Communications. The ideal individual will possess a high level of energy, hands-on marketing and communications experience with at least 10 years of experience. This position is responsible for the execution of EDGAR Online marketing programs including online and traditional marketing campaigns, external presence including website, social media and sales collateral, and online and physical events. This position requires experience with both direct and partner marketing programs. The individual in this role will be responsible for the following:
* Develop and manage all external aspects of EDGAR Online brand - website, collateral, social media, campaigns and events
* Manage marketing activities with partners
* Develop and execute marketing programs and campaigns that drive awareness and revenue from conception through reporting and analysis
* Optimize campaign and program performance through continuous testing and monitoring
* Work closely with product groups to develop collateral and presentation materials
* Work closely with sales to define revenue-generating campaigns and programs
* Manage outside vendor relationships
* Work within defined budgets
Job Requirements:
The ideal candidate will possess the following background and skill-set: * 10+ years experience, preferably in one of the following areas: financial services; data products; or enterprise software
* Minimum Bachelor's degree or equivalent
* Experience in managing partner marketing programs
* Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
* Experience in online marketing including social media
* Experience working in collaborative sales processes and product development
* Experience managing a diverse set of vendors
* Collaborative nature, customer-service-oriented, can-do attitude, sense of both urgency and humor
* Comfort working across a diverse organization and on cross-disciplinary teams
* Ability to adapt to changing dynamics in the marketplace
* Proficiency in Microsoft suite, including Excel and Power Point
We offer a competitive salary and excellent benefits including matching 401(k), medical, dental and life insurance, both short and long term disability, and many more.
* Develop and manage all external aspects of EDGAR Online brand - website, collateral, social media, campaigns and events
* Manage marketing activities with partners
* Develop and execute marketing programs and campaigns that drive awareness and revenue from conception through reporting and analysis
* Optimize campaign and program performance through continuous testing and monitoring
* Work closely with product groups to develop collateral and presentation materials
* Work closely with sales to define revenue-generating campaigns and programs
* Manage outside vendor relationships
* Work within defined budgets
Job Requirements:
The ideal candidate will possess the following background and skill-set: * 10+ years experience, preferably in one of the following areas: financial services; data products; or enterprise software
* Minimum Bachelor's degree or equivalent
* Experience in managing partner marketing programs
* Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
* Experience in online marketing including social media
* Experience working in collaborative sales processes and product development
* Experience managing a diverse set of vendors
* Collaborative nature, customer-service-oriented, can-do attitude, sense of both urgency and humor
* Comfort working across a diverse organization and on cross-disciplinary teams
* Ability to adapt to changing dynamics in the marketplace
* Proficiency in Microsoft suite, including Excel and Power Point
We offer a competitive salary and excellent benefits including matching 401(k), medical, dental and life insurance, both short and long term disability, and many more.
AND NOW FOR THE OMG MOMENT YOU'VE ALL BEEN WAITING FOR ....
· Location: Baltimore
· Compensation: 12.50 hour
· Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.
· Please, no phone calls about this job!
· Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests.
THAT'S RIGHT $12.50 AN HOUR FOR 10+ YEARS EXPERIENCE! THAT'S A WHOPPING $1.25 AN HOUR FOR EACH YEAR OF EXPERIENCE -- IF YOU ONLY HAVE 10 YEARS. IF YOU HAVE 12-1/2 YEARS EXPERIENCE -- THAT'S $1 FOR EACH YEAR!!!!!
You'd be better of asking, "Do you want fries with that?" because it will be a lot less headaches and you won't be held responsible for sales fall.
Remember, as I always say, "better me that you" especially in this crazy job market. Yikes, $12.50- for 10 years experience, I can't hardly believe it. I actually read and reread the posting to make sure I wasn't seeing things. I looks like companies are using the economy as an excuse to rip off employees!
Alert!!! Company owners and hiring managers, just because the economy is bad doesn't mean that prospective employees don't need to make a decent living. PLEASE, PLEASE STOP TRYING TO GET SOMETHING FOR NOTHING. It is totally frustrating to those of us willing to put in an honest day's work. In exchange, we would like an honest day's pay. Not what you would pay the 14 year old down he street to babysit your dog while you go have an expensive dinner!!
Monday, December 13, 2010
Dec. 13: Another interview today
It's terrible, I'm getting sick of interviewing. I think today is my 7th and I'm always "the first candidate." These companies need to screen the remaining prospective employees to determine who they want to bring back for a second interview. Unfortunately for me, that means I'm long forgotten once they complete round 1. I haven't had a since call back. Most, just seem to drop off the face of the earth. I either call or send a follow-up email and don't hear anything back. When I do, I'm just told, "we are still finishing our interviews and will need to decided who we are bringing back."
Yikes. Gas so so expensive now to trek all around town, only to be forgotten as soon as I walk out the door. Jeeze, I'm wearing my nice interview outfit, i.e. skirt, blouse, jacket, heels. Come on folks, I'm putting on hose and heels for goodness sake. Doesn't that count for something??? Plus, my sore arm as healed, so I don't have to wear my sandals anymore. I'm betting that made quite an impression. At least now I can move my right arm.
What does a prospective employee have to do to make a positive impression, cartwheels? Well, 20 years ago - maybe, but still never in a skirt and heels.
Oh well, I'm off to make myself presentable then out the door I go. Wish me luck and remember .. better me than you.
Yikes. Gas so so expensive now to trek all around town, only to be forgotten as soon as I walk out the door. Jeeze, I'm wearing my nice interview outfit, i.e. skirt, blouse, jacket, heels. Come on folks, I'm putting on hose and heels for goodness sake. Doesn't that count for something??? Plus, my sore arm as healed, so I don't have to wear my sandals anymore. I'm betting that made quite an impression. At least now I can move my right arm.
What does a prospective employee have to do to make a positive impression, cartwheels? Well, 20 years ago - maybe, but still never in a skirt and heels.
Oh well, I'm off to make myself presentable then out the door I go. Wish me luck and remember .. better me than you.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Fri., Dec. 10: Waiting is the hardest part ...
I had an interview yesterday morning. The job is perfect for me ... mostly administrative work with some marketing communications and desktop publishing thrown in for fun! Perfect. Except we are worlds apart on the salary ... exactly $10 per hour apart. I don't know why companies think they can get years of experience and expertise for peanuts? I just don't get it. You want to pay little money, then you get little experience and skill. You want extensive experience and skills, you have to pony up the money.
They old saying, "nothing in life comes free," applies to employees as well. "HELLO" people. If you want skills and experience, you have to pay for it!!!! Wake up and smell the coffee ... it's the high test stuff, too. Not the wimpy decaf ... let's get real here.
I have another interview scheduled for Monday afternoon. I hope it goes well and I hope we are on the same page as far as money is concerned. I was always taught that as a candidate, you don't bring up the monetary issue; you let the company's hiring manager bring that up. Well, I'm not so sure that is the right decision. I'm running myself all over town only to find out that I am miles apart on the salary issue. Wouldn't it be better for all concerned if we discussed that subject first so neither party wastes it's time?
And actually, speaking of Monday's interview ... I need to be upfront an honest, this company responded to my application by email. It was later in the evening when, I guess, the recruiter was reviewing resumes and he sent me an email asking when I would be available to interview. No credit check required, no click on the following link. Just a message from a real person. Wow! I can hardly believe it myself. In many prior posts, I warned you that if you receive an email in response to your application, it's probably a scam. Well, this time, I was wrong; and I'm glad to be wrong in this case. Now I have another interview.
But, please be wary of email responses to your application. I received at least 20 scam responses and only one legit. So, the odds aren't in your favor.
Anyway, have a great weekend and remember ... better me than you!
They old saying, "nothing in life comes free," applies to employees as well. "HELLO" people. If you want skills and experience, you have to pay for it!!!! Wake up and smell the coffee ... it's the high test stuff, too. Not the wimpy decaf ... let's get real here.
I have another interview scheduled for Monday afternoon. I hope it goes well and I hope we are on the same page as far as money is concerned. I was always taught that as a candidate, you don't bring up the monetary issue; you let the company's hiring manager bring that up. Well, I'm not so sure that is the right decision. I'm running myself all over town only to find out that I am miles apart on the salary issue. Wouldn't it be better for all concerned if we discussed that subject first so neither party wastes it's time?
And actually, speaking of Monday's interview ... I need to be upfront an honest, this company responded to my application by email. It was later in the evening when, I guess, the recruiter was reviewing resumes and he sent me an email asking when I would be available to interview. No credit check required, no click on the following link. Just a message from a real person. Wow! I can hardly believe it myself. In many prior posts, I warned you that if you receive an email in response to your application, it's probably a scam. Well, this time, I was wrong; and I'm glad to be wrong in this case. Now I have another interview.
But, please be wary of email responses to your application. I received at least 20 scam responses and only one legit. So, the odds aren't in your favor.
Anyway, have a great weekend and remember ... better me than you!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Dec. 8: Imagine that ...
Last week, I responded to an employment ad and received an email message about being qualified, but I had to bring my driver's license and a current credit score with me to any interview that was scheduled. As usual, I could simply "click on the link" to get a current credit score. Instead, I responded by email stating that I had a current credit score through my bank so I was all prepared for my interview. I received a second email inquiring whether I was certain that I had all required information. I assured the "potential employer" that I did have everything required and I was anxious to schedule the interview.
Well, imagine that ... no response to my second message. I guess there is no real job available. Only the opportunity to get suckered into giving out your personal information. As I've stated before, if someone responds to your application by email -- LOOK OUT! It is probably a scam.
As for my current job prospects, um, nothing. Last week I received two rejects. One to a telephone interview and the second was to an application I submitted to a local hospital. Both said I had excellent experience, but they found a candidate with a better fit. I've also been applying for civilian jobs with the military. I checked the status of those as well. I put in four applications, three were not even submitted to the recruiter because my experience didn't match those needed for the positions, the fourth was under review.
It is so hard to determine whether I qualify for a military/civilian job. They call everything by different names and they have a particular grade/pay structure that I can't seem to get a good grasp of. I thought I was only applying for things that met my qualifications and experience. Jeeze, what a pain! I'm no rocket scientist but I darn near have to be just to weed through all the military positions.
I have an interview tomorrow. Wish me luck!!! And remember, better me than you!
Well, imagine that ... no response to my second message. I guess there is no real job available. Only the opportunity to get suckered into giving out your personal information. As I've stated before, if someone responds to your application by email -- LOOK OUT! It is probably a scam.
As for my current job prospects, um, nothing. Last week I received two rejects. One to a telephone interview and the second was to an application I submitted to a local hospital. Both said I had excellent experience, but they found a candidate with a better fit. I've also been applying for civilian jobs with the military. I checked the status of those as well. I put in four applications, three were not even submitted to the recruiter because my experience didn't match those needed for the positions, the fourth was under review.
It is so hard to determine whether I qualify for a military/civilian job. They call everything by different names and they have a particular grade/pay structure that I can't seem to get a good grasp of. I thought I was only applying for things that met my qualifications and experience. Jeeze, what a pain! I'm no rocket scientist but I darn near have to be just to weed through all the military positions.
I have an interview tomorrow. Wish me luck!!! And remember, better me than you!
Friday, December 3, 2010
Dec. 2: Ready for a interview
Today I had a telephone interview and it seemed to go pretty well. I won't get my hopes up though, because I thought the two (2) prior face-to-face interviews went well, but I never head back from either. My one (1) other telephone interview went great, but again I never heard back from the organization.
I'm hoping this is typical and not exclusive to me. It is sort of disheartening to feel that you have put your best foot foward and then all you get is your foot crushed under the wheels of a dump truck.
I'm beginning to wonder what is wrong with me. It may be my appearance, but that doesn't account for the telephone interviewers dismissing me. Maybe its my voice? I don't know, but I certainly can't change my voice, at least not for the long term.
Yesterday, I received another email response to a resume I submitted. They were, of course asking me to get certain information ready before I could be interviewed:
1) Driver's license
2) Credit report (click link)
3) A printed resume (if I have it available)
Now, I submitted my resume to this supposed "company" via email, so he should not that I have a copy. The opportunity looked legit; it was or an Administrative Assistant and it spelled out certain duties and responsibilities for which I am qualified.
This time, instead of hitting the delete button, I responded to the guy telling him that I have all the information he requested. I mentioned that I have monthly credit monitoring through my bank, so I already have a copy of my credit report.
His response to me ... are you sure you have all the information required? I am about to respond back assuring him that I have all the information necessary to be invited for an interview. We'll see what the "next step" is? I was actually surprised that he responded at all.
I'll let you know what comes of it (like I expect anything to come of it.)
I'm hoping this is typical and not exclusive to me. It is sort of disheartening to feel that you have put your best foot foward and then all you get is your foot crushed under the wheels of a dump truck.
I'm beginning to wonder what is wrong with me. It may be my appearance, but that doesn't account for the telephone interviewers dismissing me. Maybe its my voice? I don't know, but I certainly can't change my voice, at least not for the long term.
Yesterday, I received another email response to a resume I submitted. They were, of course asking me to get certain information ready before I could be interviewed:
1) Driver's license
2) Credit report (click link)
3) A printed resume (if I have it available)
Now, I submitted my resume to this supposed "company" via email, so he should not that I have a copy. The opportunity looked legit; it was or an Administrative Assistant and it spelled out certain duties and responsibilities for which I am qualified.
This time, instead of hitting the delete button, I responded to the guy telling him that I have all the information he requested. I mentioned that I have monthly credit monitoring through my bank, so I already have a copy of my credit report.
His response to me ... are you sure you have all the information required? I am about to respond back assuring him that I have all the information necessary to be invited for an interview. We'll see what the "next step" is? I was actually surprised that he responded at all.
I'll let you know what comes of it (like I expect anything to come of it.)
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Dec. 1: Have I got an opportunity 4 U ...
Yes folks, this is a great opportunity for an experienced Marketing Specialist. Remember, this is a "specialist" not an entry level position. This organization wants the moon and the stars from their candidates. Below are the highlights of the posting from Craigslist.
Marketing Specialist (Baltimore, MD 21220)
Date: 2010-11-30, 1:29PM EST
Marketing Specialist Position (30 hours a week)
Responsibilities:
Providing strategic marketing support to the Marketing and Sales Teams
Expanding lead generation, branding and awareness
Search engine optimizations
Event management, promoting and planning for trade shows and events
Designing and implementing classical marketing projects
Managing layout and design of communications according to branding guidelines such as presentations, newsletters, event support materials, research papers and brochures
Assisting with market and policy research
Assisting marketing management with advertising materials and communication
Responsibilities:
Providing strategic marketing support to the Marketing and Sales Teams
Expanding lead generation, branding and awareness
Search engine optimizations
Event management, promoting and planning for trade shows and events
Designing and implementing classical marketing projects
Managing layout and design of communications according to branding guidelines such as presentations, newsletters, event support materials, research papers and brochures
Assisting with market and policy research
Assisting marketing management with advertising materials and communication
Qualifications:
Experience with or are eager to learn about event management, project management, integrated campaign management, marketing operations, database management, and collateral library management
Comfortable with social media outlets and related content and messaging creation
Excellent analytical and presentation skills including demonstrated ability to handle many assignments and tasks simultaneously
Exhibit creativity and resourcefulness
Exceptional communication skills
A bonus, Experience with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) · Location: Baltimore, MD
Experience with or are eager to learn about event management, project management, integrated campaign management, marketing operations, database management, and collateral library management
Comfortable with social media outlets and related content and messaging creation
Excellent analytical and presentation skills including demonstrated ability to handle many assignments and tasks simultaneously
Exhibit creativity and resourcefulness
Exceptional communication skills
A bonus, Experience with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) · Location: Baltimore, MD
AND NOW FOR THE REAL KICKER ...
Compensation: $10 per Hour
· Yes, you read that right ... 10 bucks an hour for an educated, experienced marketing specialist with proven experience and tons of software knowledge. Please tell me ... have I gone into the time machine and wound up in 1960???
Can you believe this?? They want someone who can design marketing programs, plan and execute events, and perform market research and analysis for $10 an hour.
As I've said repeatedly ... gimme a break people - get a clue. This is 2010 we are talking about. An education alone costs $200,000. At $10 an hour, the employee will be dead before he/she has earned enough to recoup their investment in education.
Okay, let's get real here. That much experience and expertise should pay no less than $20 per hour and probably more because of the extensive knowledge base the organization is requiring.
For all you marketing majors out there ... good luck. If this is what I'm finding, you've got a long road ahead of you.
Oh well, better me than you!!
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