I know I have listed a couple of ways to make money here. It seems to me that making a few extra dollars, or more than a few dollars, is important to surviving unemployment.
I apologize that I did not start this sooner.
Every few days I will be posting another way for you to make extra income - whether you are unemployed or you need a few extra dollars, it doesn't matter. Not every idea will work for every person. Who knows - maybe one of the ideas you read here will spark an idea for you. If that happens, great!
It's hard to have hope or courage if you don't have a few dollars coming in.
I have started a second blog just about making extra money now. I got so tired of seeing spam and reading articles about making money right now. Just seemed like scams preying on those who are in a tough place in their lives. So, I decided to start offering ideas on how to make extra money right now and not ask for anything. Think of my blog as the anti-scam.
The other blog is located at: http://makemoneynownoscam.blogspot.com/
Sometimes I will list the same posting in both places; and sometimes the entries will be unique to the blog.
Good Luck and God Bless.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Anyone Can Do It - Garage Sale 101
I suppose I should have listed having a garage sale as the first way to make money. Everyone seems to have extra 'stuff' they are willing to part with for a price. And, when times are tight, you might even part with more stuff to make some extra money.
How much am I talking about? Well, that all depends on what you have for sale, your neighborhood, if you do a bit of advertising, how you display your items, and whether or not you know your market. Lots to know to have a successful garage sale, huh?
Here are a couple of books about having a garage sale:
Everything You Need to Know...
Garage Sale Magic
And there is information available on the Internet:
About Garage Sales
Plus a whole lot more.
The Basics
Decide what you want to sell.
Decide when you want to sell it - weekends work best.
Post signage where it will be seen. don't be afraid to post signs on streets that get enough traffic so you will let people know you are having a sale. Post signs at least one day, and two days are better, before you have your sale.
If you have valuable items for sale, or prices on them that seem high for a garage sale, think about posting to Craigslist.com (it's free) or putting flyers up where people will see them. The more people that know about your sale, the more people will come by.
Watch the weather as the day gets closer. If it gets bad, at least post a sign that the garage sale was postponed and let people know the re-scheduled date. That's just being courteous.
Decide the prices ahead of time. And, decide on a pricing strategy - what offers will you take? What if people buy several items - will you provide a discount?
Price items before you put them out - several days in advance of your sale. There will be enough to do just setting up your items - don't think you can set-up and price on the same morning.
Be set-up on time. Remember, it's your store and you posted hours of operation. Be ready to go on time which means everything is out and displayed.
Speaking of display. Take a bit of time to think about how you want to display your items. I have seen items neatly displayed - almost as if it were a display in a store. And, I have seen items that seemed to have been thrown out there in piles. Both methods can be successful depending on what you have for sale and who you attract as customers. If you have time, take a look at several garage sales and see how they are displaying items, hang around long enough to see if they are selling items, and talk with the people having the sale.
The Big Day
It's here. Your big sale day. The signs are out. You have even posted some flyers. You have some great stuff for sale. And, you are ready to make several hundred dollars, or more. Just do one thing - Show Up. It's kind of important that you are out to greet potential customers and are available to take their money. Don't laugh. I don't know how many garage sales I have driven by and seen a lot of stuff, but nobody around to take money. Show Up.
Be ready to sell. Know where you will deal and how you are going to deal to make sure you make money. Have a few dollars in your pocket for change - $1's, $5's and maybe a $10. If you can't make change, maybe you can offer something extra to sell you don't have to make change.
Have fun. Be kind. Smile. Don't bother people as they look. If an item has a story that might influence a sale, tell them the story, but keep it short.
Make money.
It might sound a bit more involved and take a bit extra planning, but that is the difference between a successful garage sale and just sitting in your driveway for an entire day and have nothing to show for it.
Good Luck and God Bless. Let me know how you do.
Next: Super Sizing the Garage Sale.
How much am I talking about? Well, that all depends on what you have for sale, your neighborhood, if you do a bit of advertising, how you display your items, and whether or not you know your market. Lots to know to have a successful garage sale, huh?
Here are a couple of books about having a garage sale:
Everything You Need to Know...
Garage Sale Magic
And there is information available on the Internet:
About Garage Sales
Plus a whole lot more.
The Basics
Decide what you want to sell.
Decide when you want to sell it - weekends work best.
Post signage where it will be seen. don't be afraid to post signs on streets that get enough traffic so you will let people know you are having a sale. Post signs at least one day, and two days are better, before you have your sale.
If you have valuable items for sale, or prices on them that seem high for a garage sale, think about posting to Craigslist.com (it's free) or putting flyers up where people will see them. The more people that know about your sale, the more people will come by.
Watch the weather as the day gets closer. If it gets bad, at least post a sign that the garage sale was postponed and let people know the re-scheduled date. That's just being courteous.
Decide the prices ahead of time. And, decide on a pricing strategy - what offers will you take? What if people buy several items - will you provide a discount?
Price items before you put them out - several days in advance of your sale. There will be enough to do just setting up your items - don't think you can set-up and price on the same morning.
Be set-up on time. Remember, it's your store and you posted hours of operation. Be ready to go on time which means everything is out and displayed.
Speaking of display. Take a bit of time to think about how you want to display your items. I have seen items neatly displayed - almost as if it were a display in a store. And, I have seen items that seemed to have been thrown out there in piles. Both methods can be successful depending on what you have for sale and who you attract as customers. If you have time, take a look at several garage sales and see how they are displaying items, hang around long enough to see if they are selling items, and talk with the people having the sale.
The Big Day
It's here. Your big sale day. The signs are out. You have even posted some flyers. You have some great stuff for sale. And, you are ready to make several hundred dollars, or more. Just do one thing - Show Up. It's kind of important that you are out to greet potential customers and are available to take their money. Don't laugh. I don't know how many garage sales I have driven by and seen a lot of stuff, but nobody around to take money. Show Up.
Be ready to sell. Know where you will deal and how you are going to deal to make sure you make money. Have a few dollars in your pocket for change - $1's, $5's and maybe a $10. If you can't make change, maybe you can offer something extra to sell you don't have to make change.
Have fun. Be kind. Smile. Don't bother people as they look. If an item has a story that might influence a sale, tell them the story, but keep it short.
Make money.
It might sound a bit more involved and take a bit extra planning, but that is the difference between a successful garage sale and just sitting in your driveway for an entire day and have nothing to show for it.
Good Luck and God Bless. Let me know how you do.
Next: Super Sizing the Garage Sale.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Sticking With The Dogs
I started with Doggy Day Care as a way to make money. Well, I thought I'd just stay with the dogs for this one, too.
People love their dogs - that is just a fact. And, they want them to be cared for and cared about.
What else can you do with dogs? Walk them.
Walking dogs is a big business in some major cities like New York. We've all seen pictures of a person walking what looks like 12 dogs at once. It does not have to be that way. You can walk fewer dogs and still make decent money.
Why walk dogs? Because, like people, dogs need exercise on a daily basis. They need to get out and see what's going on in the neighborhood. And, people's work days are getting longer so the time to walk their dog is really limited. Enter a dog walker.
What will you need? A love of dogs - all kinds of dogs. A few strong leashes, unless the leash is provided my the dog's guardian. Decent shoes - you will be walking a lot. A sense of adventure - because like mail delivery you will be walking dogs in all sorts of weather. And, be a good neighbor - pick up after the dogs. Oh, yes, don't forget to keep dog treats with you at all times in your pocket or a bag - but remember to keep your hands free.
Figure out how much you want to charge. Start a bit low so you can get some first clients. You will probably know your first clients, so start by calling friends and neighbors, let them know you are going to walk dogs.
Remember to meet the dogs you will walk - literally interview them. Make sure you get along with the dog before committing to walking it. Also, find out what training the dog has had and what words they respond to. You can walk dogs in the morning and in the afternoon.
Again, I found a book you might want to consider if you want to walk dogs. Click here
to see it. It's titled The Dog Walker's Startup Guide: Create Your Own Lucrative Dog Walking Business. There are also articles available on the internet that have valuable information.
The money? Figure about $7.50 to $10.00 per dog per walk. I'd think about giving a discount if you take the same dogs out twice per day, but that's up to you. However you price your service, be very careful not to price it too high.
Be selective in the dogs you choose to walk. Make sure you get along with the dog and the dog likes you. If you think there will be a problem - don't take the dog. Being selective can be a very good thing for your business.
If you take two or three dogs out - make sure they get along!
Think about add-on services you can offer clients. Training is a natural if you know what you are doing and have experience. Grooming is another - even just bathing a dog is an add-on service.
You can live in the city. In a suburb. Almost anywhere people have dogs as pets.
Good luck and God Bless.
People love their dogs - that is just a fact. And, they want them to be cared for and cared about.
What else can you do with dogs? Walk them.
Walking dogs is a big business in some major cities like New York. We've all seen pictures of a person walking what looks like 12 dogs at once. It does not have to be that way. You can walk fewer dogs and still make decent money.
Why walk dogs? Because, like people, dogs need exercise on a daily basis. They need to get out and see what's going on in the neighborhood. And, people's work days are getting longer so the time to walk their dog is really limited. Enter a dog walker.
What will you need? A love of dogs - all kinds of dogs. A few strong leashes, unless the leash is provided my the dog's guardian. Decent shoes - you will be walking a lot. A sense of adventure - because like mail delivery you will be walking dogs in all sorts of weather. And, be a good neighbor - pick up after the dogs. Oh, yes, don't forget to keep dog treats with you at all times in your pocket or a bag - but remember to keep your hands free.
Figure out how much you want to charge. Start a bit low so you can get some first clients. You will probably know your first clients, so start by calling friends and neighbors, let them know you are going to walk dogs.
Remember to meet the dogs you will walk - literally interview them. Make sure you get along with the dog before committing to walking it. Also, find out what training the dog has had and what words they respond to. You can walk dogs in the morning and in the afternoon.
Again, I found a book you might want to consider if you want to walk dogs. Click here
to see it. It's titled The Dog Walker's Startup Guide: Create Your Own Lucrative Dog Walking Business. There are also articles available on the internet that have valuable information.The money? Figure about $7.50 to $10.00 per dog per walk. I'd think about giving a discount if you take the same dogs out twice per day, but that's up to you. However you price your service, be very careful not to price it too high.
Be selective in the dogs you choose to walk. Make sure you get along with the dog and the dog likes you. If you think there will be a problem - don't take the dog. Being selective can be a very good thing for your business.
If you take two or three dogs out - make sure they get along!
Think about add-on services you can offer clients. Training is a natural if you know what you are doing and have experience. Grooming is another - even just bathing a dog is an add-on service.
You can live in the city. In a suburb. Almost anywhere people have dogs as pets.
Good luck and God Bless.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Number 1 - Doggy Day Care
I didn't think I was going to start with this one - but I found an article today about doggy day care.
Read the article here.
Do you love dogs? Enjoy having them around? Do you need some extra money coming in as you find your new life and job? Start a small doggy day care at home in your yard. Won't work if you live in an apartment or condo. But, if you have a yard, a place where you can make the dogs comfortable, some shade or shelter, and love to see happy dogs, this one could be for you.
It only takes a few dogs - you don't want a whole herd of them on hand. Say four or five which can translate to the equivilant of $15 per hour. Price will depend on where you live, what other locations charge, the services you provide, etc. If you train dogs, great - you can charge more if you really train them. You can charge extra for dog washing and grooming. If you don't know how to groom a dog, find someone who does and who will come to your home.
Remember, though, if you do decide to run a doggy day care, you have to be at home with them at all times - they become your responsibility and do not take that lightly.
Start by finding more articles on the web.
Visit other people who have doggy day care centers to see what they have done - don't be afraid to steal ideas to make your operation better.
Make a list of who you know who has dogs. Let them know you are starting an exclusive doggy day care center.
Make sure you like the dog and have the dog and owner over to see how the dog interacts with others - make sure they all get along. If the new dog does not get along with the existing dogs - don't care for the dog.
Make sure the dog has had all shots and they are current.
Lunch for the dog should be packed by their 'guardian.' You should not have to purchase food, but do make sure each dog has an area they can think of as their own.
Keep your yard clean and free of fleas. Make sure the guardians are using something on their dog to control fleas.
Have emergency contact information for every dog including vet's name, number and location. Make sure you know the shortest way to get to the vet's office - just in case.
A book might help you: Doggy Day Care (Frankly, Frannie)
Or, maybe this one:All About Dog Daycare...A Blueprint for Success
This is not intended to be a full list of what to do to start a doggy day care. Do the research and know that you can start to make money very soon - target about $15.00 per hour, or whatever your area will support comfortably. You could easily be earning $600+ per week by taking care of animals you love.
Good luck.
Read the article here.
Do you love dogs? Enjoy having them around? Do you need some extra money coming in as you find your new life and job? Start a small doggy day care at home in your yard. Won't work if you live in an apartment or condo. But, if you have a yard, a place where you can make the dogs comfortable, some shade or shelter, and love to see happy dogs, this one could be for you.
It only takes a few dogs - you don't want a whole herd of them on hand. Say four or five which can translate to the equivilant of $15 per hour. Price will depend on where you live, what other locations charge, the services you provide, etc. If you train dogs, great - you can charge more if you really train them. You can charge extra for dog washing and grooming. If you don't know how to groom a dog, find someone who does and who will come to your home.
Remember, though, if you do decide to run a doggy day care, you have to be at home with them at all times - they become your responsibility and do not take that lightly.
Start by finding more articles on the web.
Visit other people who have doggy day care centers to see what they have done - don't be afraid to steal ideas to make your operation better.
Make a list of who you know who has dogs. Let them know you are starting an exclusive doggy day care center.
Make sure you like the dog and have the dog and owner over to see how the dog interacts with others - make sure they all get along. If the new dog does not get along with the existing dogs - don't care for the dog.
Make sure the dog has had all shots and they are current.
Lunch for the dog should be packed by their 'guardian.' You should not have to purchase food, but do make sure each dog has an area they can think of as their own.
Keep your yard clean and free of fleas. Make sure the guardians are using something on their dog to control fleas.
Have emergency contact information for every dog including vet's name, number and location. Make sure you know the shortest way to get to the vet's office - just in case.
A book might help you: Doggy Day Care (Frankly, Frannie)
Or, maybe this one:All About Dog Daycare...A Blueprint for Success
This is not intended to be a full list of what to do to start a doggy day care. Do the research and know that you can start to make money very soon - target about $15.00 per hour, or whatever your area will support comfortably. You could easily be earning $600+ per week by taking care of animals you love.
Good luck.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Bad News Can Bring Good Things to Survive Unemployment
Starting with my next post, I am going to begin to offer ideas for ways folks - you - can earn money right now. Every idea I offer will take some work, but will show you money in your pocket sooner rather than later. Some ideas might sound corny, but it might spark an idea in your mind that you can follow.
There are so many scams out there; so many ways people can get sucked in and sucked dry when they feel hopeless. People are standing by to take your money and deliver nothing!
Please do not be a victim to these get-money-without-working schemes. Please do not send money to anyone or any organization that promises you a job - unless you check them out several times. Be very, very careful. I don't want you to lose any money you might have.
What got me started on this?
Last week the government announced that unemployment was reduced by .3%. The unemployment rate fell from 10% to 9.7%, but there was no job growth. So, what does that mean?
It might mean a couple of things. One, the people who went to work took existing jobs - jobs that had been held by another person and were for some reason now open. That's one reason, and it's the reason I would like to believe.
But another reason could be that .3% just ran out of unemployment benefits and are still without a job. That is not good news - and one that I would not like to believe. But, my time being unemployed certainly made me look at things realistically, and I sometimes saw things that I did not want to see.
More than ever, it's survival time for some people - and I want to help.
There are so many scams out there; so many ways people can get sucked in and sucked dry when they feel hopeless. People are standing by to take your money and deliver nothing!
Please do not be a victim to these get-money-without-working schemes. Please do not send money to anyone or any organization that promises you a job - unless you check them out several times. Be very, very careful. I don't want you to lose any money you might have.
What got me started on this?
Last week the government announced that unemployment was reduced by .3%. The unemployment rate fell from 10% to 9.7%, but there was no job growth. So, what does that mean?
It might mean a couple of things. One, the people who went to work took existing jobs - jobs that had been held by another person and were for some reason now open. That's one reason, and it's the reason I would like to believe.
But another reason could be that .3% just ran out of unemployment benefits and are still without a job. That is not good news - and one that I would not like to believe. But, my time being unemployed certainly made me look at things realistically, and I sometimes saw things that I did not want to see.
More than ever, it's survival time for some people - and I want to help.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
The Rumor is True
I read an article this morning about the way recruiters talk and sometimes share information. This is something you must know as you look for your new life - very important to know that what happens with one recruiter can become almost common knowledge.
Please read the article in the Wall Street Journal.
The big news is that now that you know, you can guard against it - there might even be ways to turn it to your advantage. Remember, not only will they share negative impressions, they are going to share positive impressions - especially at a job fair. Be friendly. Smile. Show your best side. Remember, you new life can come from anywhere!
Please read the article in the Wall Street Journal.
The big news is that now that you know, you can guard against it - there might even be ways to turn it to your advantage. Remember, not only will they share negative impressions, they are going to share positive impressions - especially at a job fair. Be friendly. Smile. Show your best side. Remember, you new life can come from anywhere!
Sunday, January 31, 2010
The Power of Hope
I found this quote recently and I had to pass it along.
Orison Swett Marden
There is no medicine like hope, no incentive so great and no tonic so powerfulas expectation of something better tomorrow.
Great News About Jobs!
You are going to survive unemployment and have a great life - it's going to take a bit of work to find it. But, you can do it. One step at a time.
So, when was the last time you heard any good news about jobs? In the last 10 days we have all heard the unemployment numbers - and they went up. We all know people who have been unemployed for months - and some for years. The current economy is touching everyone, and I know its touch causes pain.
But - there is some great news out there. Some places are hiring, but they may not be places where you are looking or have considered. Did you know it's projected that there will be 600,000 openings for temporary or contract labor? These jobs can pay anywhere from $20 p/hr for clerical positions to $100+ p/hr for specialized skilled IT contractors, attorneys,and some financial professionals. There are jobs available in just about every field - go out and get yourself one!
Have you looked into federal government jobs? There are 1000's of them available right now! Look here - this is the official site for federal government jobs.
In the area or security it's projected there will be 60,000 jobs this year. This includes every job from hourly security officer for a private company to being an agent for the FBI and every position in-between.
It's great news for anyone looking for a job - there are 100,000's of jobs out there - one is waiting just for you.
To get a better idea, watch this video from Good Morning America.
You are going to survive unemployment and get a great new life!
So, when was the last time you heard any good news about jobs? In the last 10 days we have all heard the unemployment numbers - and they went up. We all know people who have been unemployed for months - and some for years. The current economy is touching everyone, and I know its touch causes pain.
But - there is some great news out there. Some places are hiring, but they may not be places where you are looking or have considered. Did you know it's projected that there will be 600,000 openings for temporary or contract labor? These jobs can pay anywhere from $20 p/hr for clerical positions to $100+ p/hr for specialized skilled IT contractors, attorneys,and some financial professionals. There are jobs available in just about every field - go out and get yourself one!
Have you looked into federal government jobs? There are 1000's of them available right now! Look here - this is the official site for federal government jobs.
In the area or security it's projected there will be 60,000 jobs this year. This includes every job from hourly security officer for a private company to being an agent for the FBI and every position in-between.
It's great news for anyone looking for a job - there are 100,000's of jobs out there - one is waiting just for you.
To get a better idea, watch this video from Good Morning America.
You are going to survive unemployment and get a great new life!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Prepare for The Future
If you are anything like me, as soon as an article appears about the "10 Best Jobs" or "10 Jobs That Pay $50+ per Hour," you read them. What do you find out? That the jobs require training and certifications. That the jobs might not be that plentiful. That the jobs are highly technical. And, mostly you find out that you don't qualify for any of them.
You are trying to survive unemployment and, from reading the lists, you find 10 more jobs for which you can't apply. Not good news.
But, there really is some good news hidden in some statistics published by the federal government. No, I am not referring to the unemployment figures. I am referring to some numbers put forth by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Department of Commerce. The numbers tell the story of where jobs are going to be and what kind of jobs will be the fastest growing.
From the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
In 2005, 8.3% of the labor force was employed as skilled contractors in management, science and technical fields. The need for these same people will increase by 87.9% by 2016. These folks are the consultants - the people who come in and work on a single project and then leave. There will be a huge need for them, and the need can already be seen growing.
The Dept. of Commerce tells us that the top 1,000 companies in America will have 35% fewer full-time people by 2020. The work will still need to be done. Who is going to do it? The consultants - the skilled contract labor will come in on a project by project basis, which means maximum flexibility for companies.
Now is the time to get the training you will need to find your new life. The old economy was based on full-time employees working for a company. We have seen that effects of that model when the economy goes south. The new economy will be based on consultants working for a company on a temporary basis providing a skill. So, get the skills companies will require which are going to be in IT, Project Managers and in the Health fields.
Don't know what you want to do? There are a number of books available starting with a classic in the field: What Color Is Your Parachute? 2010: A Practical Manual for Job-Hunters and Career-Changers
The world has changed and will continue to change. Look forward to the change - be a part of the change. Be ready to capitalize on the change.
You can do it. Your life is going to be better than ever! Check into local schools for training, if you need it. Look for sources of money to pay for the training; states and the federal government have programs that will pay for the training and pay you.
Your future is going to be so very bright.
You are trying to survive unemployment and, from reading the lists, you find 10 more jobs for which you can't apply. Not good news.
But, there really is some good news hidden in some statistics published by the federal government. No, I am not referring to the unemployment figures. I am referring to some numbers put forth by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Department of Commerce. The numbers tell the story of where jobs are going to be and what kind of jobs will be the fastest growing.
From the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
In 2005, 8.3% of the labor force was employed as skilled contractors in management, science and technical fields. The need for these same people will increase by 87.9% by 2016. These folks are the consultants - the people who come in and work on a single project and then leave. There will be a huge need for them, and the need can already be seen growing.
The Dept. of Commerce tells us that the top 1,000 companies in America will have 35% fewer full-time people by 2020. The work will still need to be done. Who is going to do it? The consultants - the skilled contract labor will come in on a project by project basis, which means maximum flexibility for companies.
Now is the time to get the training you will need to find your new life. The old economy was based on full-time employees working for a company. We have seen that effects of that model when the economy goes south. The new economy will be based on consultants working for a company on a temporary basis providing a skill. So, get the skills companies will require which are going to be in IT, Project Managers and in the Health fields.
Don't know what you want to do? There are a number of books available starting with a classic in the field: What Color Is Your Parachute? 2010: A Practical Manual for Job-Hunters and Career-Changers
The world has changed and will continue to change. Look forward to the change - be a part of the change. Be ready to capitalize on the change.
You can do it. Your life is going to be better than ever! Check into local schools for training, if you need it. Look for sources of money to pay for the training; states and the federal government have programs that will pay for the training and pay you.
Your future is going to be so very bright.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Posted Earllier on Twitter
I mentioned in the last blog that I had signed up on Twitter, and if nothing else, it requires me to think in shorter sentences, which I will occasionally expand upon here.
My 'tweet' from earlier today:
Do unto others - you will feel, and perhaps even be better for it. "Those who give, give twice - once to others, once to themselves." Anon.
It really is true. By now, you know that I am a big believer in giving back - giving to others and of oneself as a great way to grow personal hope and courage - and to just get outside of yourself. It works. And there are so many places where you can do that close - very close to home.
My 'tweet' from earlier today:
Do unto others - you will feel, and perhaps even be better for it. "Those who give, give twice - once to others, once to themselves." Anon.
It really is true. By now, you know that I am a big believer in giving back - giving to others and of oneself as a great way to grow personal hope and courage - and to just get outside of yourself. It works. And there are so many places where you can do that close - very close to home.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Twitter for Surviving Unemployment
I don't know very much about Twitter - yet, but I signed up and can be found at here. I will try to make daily tweets (that's what they are called, right?) that stress hope and courage, how to maintain them, inspirational quotes, and the occasional fun fact - as I find them. It's just another way I can try and assist as you seek your new life.
The best times of your life are just ahead.
The best times of your life are just ahead.
Coincidence - I Don't Think So
I was not planning on making a blog entry today, but I came across a blog entry that struck me as one I should pass on.
I was looking at Twitter - trying to understand it, and I still don't. But, as a result, I came across this blog entry and thought it important to provide the link.
40plusRocks
Here is someone who is over 35, has owned businesses, and in her own words succeeded, failed and got up again. She knows what it's like to be laid-off and is using it as a time to plan the next steps in her life.
It's the very same thing you should be doing. Plan what you are going to do. If you don't know, or don't have a direction, complete an inventory of your knowledge, skills, experiences and abilities. If you need a form to do that, email me, and I will send you a form that will help the process. Please put KSA in the subject line.
Once you have completed the form, and identified your talents and interests, you can begin to develop a plan that will lead you to your new life.
"One's best success comes after their greatest disappointments." Henry Ward Beecher
I was looking at Twitter - trying to understand it, and I still don't. But, as a result, I came across this blog entry and thought it important to provide the link.
40plusRocks
Here is someone who is over 35, has owned businesses, and in her own words succeeded, failed and got up again. She knows what it's like to be laid-off and is using it as a time to plan the next steps in her life.
It's the very same thing you should be doing. Plan what you are going to do. If you don't know, or don't have a direction, complete an inventory of your knowledge, skills, experiences and abilities. If you need a form to do that, email me, and I will send you a form that will help the process. Please put KSA in the subject line.
Once you have completed the form, and identified your talents and interests, you can begin to develop a plan that will lead you to your new life.
"One's best success comes after their greatest disappointments." Henry Ward Beecher
Monday, January 18, 2010
Thank You & Help Others Survive Unemployment
It just struck me that I should thank anyone and everyone who reads my words. My hope is that you gain a bit of hope and courage because that is all you need sometimes to face a day - just a bit of hope and courage to send out that resume, or make that call, or try something new. I hope I am helping in some fashion.
If I am helping; if I have written anything that has assisted you, caused you to think about things differently, or just caused you to smile, please give another person the link to this blog. There are millions who are unemployed and I just want to help.
Again, thank you for your time and interest.
In doing some research I came across some numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics that I will be sharing in the next few blogs. I will not only share the numbers, but what they mean to those who are searching for their new life.
Remember, you do have a new life out there and it's going to be great.
If I am helping; if I have written anything that has assisted you, caused you to think about things differently, or just caused you to smile, please give another person the link to this blog. There are millions who are unemployed and I just want to help.
Again, thank you for your time and interest.
In doing some research I came across some numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics that I will be sharing in the next few blogs. I will not only share the numbers, but what they mean to those who are searching for their new life.
Remember, you do have a new life out there and it's going to be great.
Survivng Unemployment Put Into Perspective
I know from first hand experience that your whole world can be consumed by doing what you have to do to just survive being unemployed. It's all you think about from the time you get up, every time the phone rings (is it another creditor?), until you go to bed and sleep, if you can. But, you are alive and working to survive.
Be thankful that you don't live in Haiti. They are only interested in just what they need to survive. A roof. Food. Water. Things get pretty basic. And, trying to get any kind of emergency health care that so many need is next to impossible - so the death toll is going to rise.
If you can, call the Red Cross, or go to their website, and give them a donation - just a small one of $5 - you will never know how even an amount like that can make things a bit better for a person - it can give them the hope to move forward. And, if you can't give a few dollars, give an organization who is helping Haiti your time.
If you don't like the Red Cross, Google 'Aid for Haiti.' You get a lot of hits.
You can make a difference to one who has lost everything!
Be thankful that you don't live in Haiti. They are only interested in just what they need to survive. A roof. Food. Water. Things get pretty basic. And, trying to get any kind of emergency health care that so many need is next to impossible - so the death toll is going to rise.
If you can, call the Red Cross, or go to their website, and give them a donation - just a small one of $5 - you will never know how even an amount like that can make things a bit better for a person - it can give them the hope to move forward. And, if you can't give a few dollars, give an organization who is helping Haiti your time.
If you don't like the Red Cross, Google 'Aid for Haiti.' You get a lot of hits.
You can make a difference to one who has lost everything!
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Just Found for Surviving Unemployment
I have just discovered a blog and wanted to pass it along.
The Unemployed Nation
The writer tells of her experience as she looks for employment. It seems to be very thoughtful and might provide some great tips.
A new life waits for you - a new great life - be persistent in seeking it.
The Unemployed Nation
The writer tells of her experience as she looks for employment. It seems to be very thoughtful and might provide some great tips.
A new life waits for you - a new great life - be persistent in seeking it.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Good News! Hope to Survive Unemployment
Recently I have been reading a lot of articles that are uninspiring and do not provide any hope of a better future. What trash! So far, I have not heard anyone reliably predict the future. I am just plain tired of reading news that does not provide hope - and we could all use a little more hope while surviving unemployment!
Here are a few links for good news: positive news; news that builds instead of tear down:
Good News
More Good News
Even More Good News
Read and enjoy - there is good stuff going on in the world and it's only a matter of time until it happens to you. Meanwhile, as the saying goes, count your blessings because I KNOW you have them.
Here are a few links for good news: positive news; news that builds instead of tear down:
Good News
More Good News
Even More Good News
Read and enjoy - there is good stuff going on in the world and it's only a matter of time until it happens to you. Meanwhile, as the saying goes, count your blessings because I KNOW you have them.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
The Need to Re-invent
Re-employment is coming back - but ever so slowly. And, there are some jobs that are not going to return at all. Read the article in the Wall Street Journal:
So, don't be discouraged if you don't find your new job or new life in a few weeks, or even months. Take the time to gain a new skill by going to school - get the training you need to be successful. Volunteer a day a week for your favorite organization. Get involved. Why? Because you never know where your new life is going to be found.
You can survive unemployment. Take the time to re-invent yourself and find your new life!
So, don't be discouraged if you don't find your new job or new life in a few weeks, or even months. Take the time to gain a new skill by going to school - get the training you need to be successful. Volunteer a day a week for your favorite organization. Get involved. Why? Because you never know where your new life is going to be found.
You can survive unemployment. Take the time to re-invent yourself and find your new life!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Reality Check About Unemployment - What does it really mean?
I just finished reading a blog about the current state of unemployment - which does nothing to help you survive being unemployed. Sure, it's no secret that it's at 10%; that when the underemployed are counted, it jumps to 17+%; and that there is no way to count the number of people who are no longer eligible for unemployment benefits are not even counted - there is no real idea how many people are not employed.
I got angry reading the blog because it did nothing to help anyone do anything. I got depressed reading it!
So, what does knowing all of that do for you? Not a thing. Not a darn thing unless you start thinking about how you are going to survive your current condition of being unemployed. There is only one real statistic that matters to you and that is are you working or not, right? At some level, it all comes down to you and how you treat not having a job. You have a choice.
You can choose to either give in, give up, take it on the chin and be out for the count, or you can get your butt up off of the mat and work to make things better. Yes, you can make it better. And, the first step to making it better is approaching each day with optimism.
It takes courage to get up and face the day. It takes hope to send out that resume or start contacting your network. Sometimes it just takes getting up and doing it - taking one step; putting one foot in front of another. Some days you just don't feel like it, I know because I have been there. But, if you are ever to start your new life, you are going to have to find it. You are going to have to find it because chances are it will not find you, But, the good news is that you can do it. You can find your new life, your new job, starting right now by taking one step, by not sleeping late tomorrow. It's a whole new day and can be a new start for you.
The first step is getting up and facing it - which you can do.
I got angry reading the blog because it did nothing to help anyone do anything. I got depressed reading it!
So, what does knowing all of that do for you? Not a thing. Not a darn thing unless you start thinking about how you are going to survive your current condition of being unemployed. There is only one real statistic that matters to you and that is are you working or not, right? At some level, it all comes down to you and how you treat not having a job. You have a choice.
You can choose to either give in, give up, take it on the chin and be out for the count, or you can get your butt up off of the mat and work to make things better. Yes, you can make it better. And, the first step to making it better is approaching each day with optimism.
It takes courage to get up and face the day. It takes hope to send out that resume or start contacting your network. Sometimes it just takes getting up and doing it - taking one step; putting one foot in front of another. Some days you just don't feel like it, I know because I have been there. But, if you are ever to start your new life, you are going to have to find it. You are going to have to find it because chances are it will not find you, But, the good news is that you can do it. You can find your new life, your new job, starting right now by taking one step, by not sleeping late tomorrow. It's a whole new day and can be a new start for you.
The first step is getting up and facing it - which you can do.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Surviving Unemployment Through Income Creation Programs
I have been recently thinking about job creation. For the last two years we have been reading about job loss. Sometimes as many as 400,000 to 500,000 jobs were lost during those months. And, we who are surviving unemployment have all been touched by the economic slowdown. Minds much sharper than mine will one day tell us why it happened. Right now, the why is not important - getting back to work is important, or at least finding ways to create income.
I just read this blog, http://themoderatevoice.com/58261/its-all-about-access-guest-voice/, and became frustrated with the author. He seems to be waiting for the President to do something about job creation. If you are like me, you can't wait. You have to get some income right now. Who can live on unemployment benefits?
Unfortunately, if there's not a lot of help coming from the government to create jobs, everyone of us has to start our own Income Creation Program - ICP. How do you create an ICP? Start by analyzing what you can do - your knowledge, skills, and experiences. Can you repair computers? Are you a techie who can set-up a wireless system? Can you mow grass? Paint a room or house trim? Do you take great photographs? Hold a garage sale, if nothing else. Or, become the neighborhood babysitter (not childcare). Maybe you can wash windows so they sparkle. What talent do you have that your friends and neighbors could use? Do not say none - everyone has at least one talent. Be inventive.
Once you have determined that talent, or talents, let people know you are available to provide them with that talent or service. Advertise by flyer, word or mouth or just knocking on doors. You will start slow, but remember, every dollar you make is a dollar you did not have.
You can do it. You can create your own ICP!
More on this in a later post - but don't wait, start now.
I just read this blog, http://themoderatevoice.com/58261/its-all-about-access-guest-voice/, and became frustrated with the author. He seems to be waiting for the President to do something about job creation. If you are like me, you can't wait. You have to get some income right now. Who can live on unemployment benefits?
Unfortunately, if there's not a lot of help coming from the government to create jobs, everyone of us has to start our own Income Creation Program - ICP. How do you create an ICP? Start by analyzing what you can do - your knowledge, skills, and experiences. Can you repair computers? Are you a techie who can set-up a wireless system? Can you mow grass? Paint a room or house trim? Do you take great photographs? Hold a garage sale, if nothing else. Or, become the neighborhood babysitter (not childcare). Maybe you can wash windows so they sparkle. What talent do you have that your friends and neighbors could use? Do not say none - everyone has at least one talent. Be inventive.
Once you have determined that talent, or talents, let people know you are available to provide them with that talent or service. Advertise by flyer, word or mouth or just knocking on doors. You will start slow, but remember, every dollar you make is a dollar you did not have.
You can do it. You can create your own ICP!
More on this in a later post - but don't wait, start now.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
You Are Not Alone!
I found surviving unemployment can be incredibly lonely. While there are a lot of us out there, it always comes down to the number one; it comes down to you. It doesn't matter if we are told the unemployment rate is 4% or 10%; your personal unemployment is the only one that matters to you - and it could well be 100%!
But, you are not alone as your work to survive unemployment - you are not the only one who might not have a job. The government says unemployment is about 10%. That is the number of people who have no employment at all, who are actively looking and who are receiving benefits. That represents millions of people with a lot of power to make the world a better place.
What would happen if each person of the 10% unemployed gave just 8 hours per week to volunteering for a non-profit? Can you even imagine the great things that could be done? Look, I have a pretty good imagination, but I can't even begin to picture millions of people giving 8 hours per week and what they could accomplish. That's going to be close to 80 million hours. That is the equivalent of ten million people working one eight hour day or 2,00,000 (two million!) people working full time for one week. What could they accomplish? I can't even begin to imagine harnessing the creativity and work of that many people and what they could accomplish. The result would be awe inspiring for the world.
Plus, by volunteering you would be getting outside of yourself and giving to your neighbor. I can tell you that personal problems become much smaller when you start helping others, and you feel so good about yourself.
Which is one of the first steps to regaining Hope and Courage.
But, you are not alone as your work to survive unemployment - you are not the only one who might not have a job. The government says unemployment is about 10%. That is the number of people who have no employment at all, who are actively looking and who are receiving benefits. That represents millions of people with a lot of power to make the world a better place.
What would happen if each person of the 10% unemployed gave just 8 hours per week to volunteering for a non-profit? Can you even imagine the great things that could be done? Look, I have a pretty good imagination, but I can't even begin to picture millions of people giving 8 hours per week and what they could accomplish. That's going to be close to 80 million hours. That is the equivalent of ten million people working one eight hour day or 2,00,000 (two million!) people working full time for one week. What could they accomplish? I can't even begin to imagine harnessing the creativity and work of that many people and what they could accomplish. The result would be awe inspiring for the world.
Plus, by volunteering you would be getting outside of yourself and giving to your neighbor. I can tell you that personal problems become much smaller when you start helping others, and you feel so good about yourself.
Which is one of the first steps to regaining Hope and Courage.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Where The Jobs Are
I was going to call it a night, but could not do that until after I added this post.
As I was reveiwing some email, I found my son, Ryan, had sent me a link a while back providing projections on where jobs will be - and where they exist right now in the government. Take a look, the numbers will surprise you! Folks, there is hope for the future!
http://data.wherethejobsare.org/wtja/home
And, here are links to books on how to get those jobs, if you are interested.
How to Land a Top-Paying Federal Job: Your Complete Guide to Opportunities, Internships, Resumes and Cover Letters, Application Essays (KSAs), Interviews, Salaries, Promotions and More!
Ten Steps to a Federal Job: How to Land a Job in the Obama Administration, 2nd Edition
Federal Resume Guidebook: Strategies for Writing a Winning Federal Electronic Resume, KSAs, and Essays, 4th Edition
Now, I can go to bed...good night.
As I was reveiwing some email, I found my son, Ryan, had sent me a link a while back providing projections on where jobs will be - and where they exist right now in the government. Take a look, the numbers will surprise you! Folks, there is hope for the future!
http://data.wherethejobsare.org/wtja/home
And, here are links to books on how to get those jobs, if you are interested.
How to Land a Top-Paying Federal Job: Your Complete Guide to Opportunities, Internships, Resumes and Cover Letters, Application Essays (KSAs), Interviews, Salaries, Promotions and More!
Ten Steps to a Federal Job: How to Land a Job in the Obama Administration, 2nd Edition
Federal Resume Guidebook: Strategies for Writing a Winning Federal Electronic Resume, KSAs, and Essays, 4th Edition
Now, I can go to bed...good night.
You Are Alive!
You know, quotes can be very inspiring and I have a few that have made a difference in the way I look at things which I will share from time to time. The difference they have made? They picked me up when I was a bit down, or caused me to smile.
For example: "When you get to the end of your rope...tie a knot in it." Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Now, there was a guy who had all of the reason in the world to want to hide - to turn his back on the entire world and crawl into a shell - and there were some who thought that was the right course of action to take. Think he was under any pressure? Think he had a few bad days? Try all of 1941, 1942 and 1943. There was no good news and people were dying. If it wasn't the depression, it was a war. Close allies were involved in fighting and dying while as a country, we had trouble standing up due to the economy.
You and I cannot know the pressure he was under everyday from all sides. There had to be days where he felt he was at the end of his rope - and all he could possible hope to do was to persevere - was to just hang on. Which is exactly what you must do when the really bad days hit - persevere - hang in there and things will get better.
Look, nobody I know, and I am fairly certain nobody you know is responsible for World Peace, or World War - sending Americans to die. However, I am certain the Sun will come up tomorrow. Grass will remain green, and the Sky will continue to be blue. And, if you are reading this, then you are on the right side of the grass - seeing it from the green side as opposed to be looking up and seeing roots. If you are seeing the green side, the major aspect of life has been taken care of - the rest is details. Be glad you are alive to find that new life. I know it sounds simplistic, but sometimes with the unemployment rate at 10%, you have to be grateful for the basics. After that, it's just details.
Take a moment to count your blessings - count the 'good stuff' that is happening for you. And, if you have trouble starting the count - start with you are alive. You will be amazed at how many good things are happening in your life if you look.
For example: "When you get to the end of your rope...tie a knot in it." Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Now, there was a guy who had all of the reason in the world to want to hide - to turn his back on the entire world and crawl into a shell - and there were some who thought that was the right course of action to take. Think he was under any pressure? Think he had a few bad days? Try all of 1941, 1942 and 1943. There was no good news and people were dying. If it wasn't the depression, it was a war. Close allies were involved in fighting and dying while as a country, we had trouble standing up due to the economy.
You and I cannot know the pressure he was under everyday from all sides. There had to be days where he felt he was at the end of his rope - and all he could possible hope to do was to persevere - was to just hang on. Which is exactly what you must do when the really bad days hit - persevere - hang in there and things will get better.
Look, nobody I know, and I am fairly certain nobody you know is responsible for World Peace, or World War - sending Americans to die. However, I am certain the Sun will come up tomorrow. Grass will remain green, and the Sky will continue to be blue. And, if you are reading this, then you are on the right side of the grass - seeing it from the green side as opposed to be looking up and seeing roots. If you are seeing the green side, the major aspect of life has been taken care of - the rest is details. Be glad you are alive to find that new life. I know it sounds simplistic, but sometimes with the unemployment rate at 10%, you have to be grateful for the basics. After that, it's just details.
Take a moment to count your blessings - count the 'good stuff' that is happening for you. And, if you have trouble starting the count - start with you are alive. You will be amazed at how many good things are happening in your life if you look.
I'm Back - And With More to Say
Hi, again. Wow, it's been a long time and a lot has happened. I can't let the lessons I have learned during the my period of unemployment be wasted. We have all heard that a person learns from their mistakes; a wise person learns from the mistakes of others. And, while I won't admit to all of the mistakes I have made, you will be able to deduce some of them.
During the last months I have let some down - and I have heard from you. I apologize and will do better - regular updates. Why this change? I have just posted a book to Amazon and it should be available in a couple of weeks. A friend told me that I would kick myself if I didn't use the time I had while not employed to write a book. Well, I wrote it and just let it lay there as I gathered rejection slips from agents and publishers. I just decided they were wrong - could not see the true need for the book, so I took it upon myself to publish it on Amazon.
The title of the book? Your Unemployment Survival Guide; Hope and Courage One Day At A Time. I will let you know when it's available on Amazon. Meanwhile, I will post here regularly.
Thank you for your patience.
During the last months I have let some down - and I have heard from you. I apologize and will do better - regular updates. Why this change? I have just posted a book to Amazon and it should be available in a couple of weeks. A friend told me that I would kick myself if I didn't use the time I had while not employed to write a book. Well, I wrote it and just let it lay there as I gathered rejection slips from agents and publishers. I just decided they were wrong - could not see the true need for the book, so I took it upon myself to publish it on Amazon.
The title of the book? Your Unemployment Survival Guide; Hope and Courage One Day At A Time. I will let you know when it's available on Amazon. Meanwhile, I will post here regularly.
Thank you for your patience.
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