JobSeekers of Peachtree City
Helping People Find Good Jobs, Close to Home, in Minimum Time
Get out and about. Come to JobSeekers this week. Bring a friend.
If you're not looking, forward this message to someone who needs it.
In This Issue
1. Inspiration: David Found Strength in the Lord His God
2. Success Story: Cuneo Wins in a Four-month Interview Process
3. This Week's Meeting: Seven Search Strategies and Their Relative Effectiveness
4. Networking: ABC from 10:15 to 11:30
5. Job Leads: Leads and Links in South Metro Atlanta
6. Contact: Chaplain and Ship's Crew
7. Donate: You Could Help Save a Career, a Home or Even a Marriage
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Inspiration: David Found Strength in the Lord His God
Hello JobSeekers and friends in our network!
I'm looking forward to 2011 with hope in my heart, optimism in my eyes, and faith in God that through Him, all things are possible! In recent weeks I've spoken to many of you who are feeling quite the opposite: you have lost hope, are feeling depressed, and don't believe much of anything good is possible.
King David had his ups and downs. If you don't believe me, read the Psalms. The difficult days of his life prepared him to lead a nation and write psalms that inspire us 3000 years later.
Sometimes the seasons of our life aren't always synched up with the seasons of the year. When many people are full of joy, you may be in the doldrums. Ecclesiastes says there's a time and a season for everything. It may be winter in your life now, but spring is just around the corner.
David had a rough winter in his life before he became King of Israel.
John Ortberg tells the story of how David hid in caves to escape Saul in "If You Want to Walk on Water, You've Got to Get Out of the Boat." Although I'd read the story about hiding in caves before, I didn't realize that David was on the run from Saul for about 10 years. In my mind he went from the youth who slew Goliath to King David in a short period of time.
Here's what really happened: after being a shepherd and slaying Goliath, he was a musician in King Saul's court. From there he became a warrior and rose to become the most successful officer in the army. At that point Saul became jealous (see 1 Samuel 18: 7-9). He tried various ways of killing David, including using his daughter Michal as a snare. The trap didn't work; in fact, David married Michal.
As the story progresses, David loses his job (here's our link), loses his wife (she was given to another man by her father), loses his best friend (Saul's son Jonathan), loses his mentor (Samuel, who had anointed him when he was just a shepherd boy, and had continued to give David advice over the years -- he died of old age), he lost his friend Ahimelech and 84 other priests who had sided with him (they were killed by Doeg the Edomite because they had protected David), and he had survived a few assassination attempts (Saul himself hurled a spear at him, 1 Samuel 20:33).
Are you getting the picture here? Things weren't going so well for David.
David hid in caves; he was constantly on the run from Saul's army, just like Saddam Hussein did when he was hiding from the U.S. armed forces. David found 600 loyal men and their families who stuck with him. Things got even worse when David and his men returned from some raids on nearby towns to find that their city, Ziklag, had been burned to the ground and all their wives, sons and daughters had been taken captive by the Amalakites. Now even his loyal men turned on him. Ortberg says what David did next was one of the great statements in scripture (1 Samuel 30:6): "David found strength in the Lord his God."
The story ends well. David and his men killed the Amalakites and got back their wives, children and all their possessions that had been taken as plunder. The Philistines killed Saul and his sons. David was anointed king, and he became the greatest king in the Bible, a man after God's own heart. And he was the father (many generations removed) of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Ortberg says the cave is a wonderful place to find that you are loved by God. He says, "The cave is where God does some of his best work in molding and shaping human lives. Sometimes when all the props and crutches in your life get stripped away and you find you have only God, you discover that God is enough." (p.139)
How many of you reading this message today are in a cave right now? I've spent quite a bit of time in caves myself these past few years, and I am a better man for it. Use this cave time to allow God to mold and shape you. Use this time for good. It has a purpose. God has a purpose. Like David, there are indeed brighter days ahead for you. It's God's promise to all of us. As we begin a new year, listen to Jesus' words to us, the sheep of his flock:
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." -- John 14:27
Let's all look forward to 2011 with hope in our hearts, optimism in our eyes, and faith in God that through Him, all things are possible! Amen!
Copyright © 2011 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
2. Success Story: Cuneo Wins in a Four-month Interview Process
We love to hear from you when you land a new position. Please write and let us know how you found your job, what you learned from the experience, and how JobSeekers helped you.
I've learned of several people who've landed jobs over the last couple of weeks. If you've landed too, please let me know. Mark called me a few days before Christmas and then sent this letter last week. Congratulations Mark!
Hey Dave,
I got a job. A full time job. I've been waiting a while to say that – 16 months to be precise. I never would have thought I would be out of a job for so long. It was a very challenging time and I really appreciate the advice and guidance you gave me.
I will be starting with XX in January. I started interviewing with them in August when I was contacted by an external recruiter. Yes that's right, a four-month plus interview process that included a face-to-face interview, several phone interviews, an online evaluation, and a three-week background check.
Dave, thanks again for your help, the ministry of JobSeekers was very meaningful to me. Just knowing that so many skilled and talented people were dealing with the same difficulty that I was dealing with really helped.
May the Lord continue to bless you!
Sincerely,
Mark
3. This Week's Meeting: Seven Search Strategies and Their Relative Effectiveness
The holidays are over. It's time to get off the sidelines and back in the game! It seems everyone I've spoken to is experiencing some serious inertia after the holidays. Come to JS this Friday and get your mojo back!
I'll teach you what works (and why) and what doesn't (and why not). I will share something that I've never seen on another career website, or seen in another book, or heard from another career coach. If you embrace this concept, prepare yourself thoroughly, and maintain a positive attitude you can and will land a job. See you Friday!
Who: All are welcome; the topics are targeted for professionals, managers and executives.
What: JobSeekers is a nondenominational career ministry.
When: Friday mornings from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Where: First Baptist Church in Peachtree City; 208 Willow Bend Road.
Why: We work with you to find a job, and we walk with you on your journey of faith.
Attire: Business casual.
Agenda: 7:30 coffee / 7:45 welcome and devotional / 8:10 introductions and announcements / 8:45 job search training module / 10:00 adjourn to the Atlanta Bread Company
We look forward to seeing you on Friday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Networking
Atlanta Bread Company
After the JobSeekers meeting, we go to the ABC from 10:15 to 11:30 for an informal gathering. There's no agenda; we just have fellowship and help each other out.
Newnan First UMC Job Networking Ministry
Come join us at our next meeting on Tuesday 11 January 6:00 PM.
Meetings are always held the second Tuesday of each month in the Parish Hall of Newnan First United Methodist Church. The church is located at 33 Greenville Street in Newnan. You may reach them by telephone at 770-253-7400 or go to "newnanfumc.org" and select "Job Network" under "Resources" on the left side of the home page. We look forward to seeing you there.
College Park Job Seekers
Have a family member, friend or neighbor concerned that they may lose their job, and they cannot take time off to attend a job seekers group? Attend the College Park Job Seekers Group which meets the first Saturday in every month from 9:00 am – 11:30 am. The next meeting is Saturday 5 February. This is a community service of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5885 Mallory Road, College Park, Georgia 770-306-9922.
Career Transition / Job Search Workshop
New Hope Baptist Church / North Campus Missions Center
Wednesdays, January 12 – 26 from 6-8 PM
* * * Must register for class and complete online assessment prior to class * * *
To register call or email Lesley Deyton, 770-461-4337 ext 884 / lesleyd@newhopebc.org
childcare is provided!
If you are looking for work or considering changing careers, this workshop is for you. Free gift assessment and workbook will help you discover how God has equipped you. Resume assistance and interview skills are also extensively covered. This workshop is designed to help you find the job(s) that you are gifted for and make the best first impression to land that job! Workshop led by Bruce King.
Showing posts with label Jobseekers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jobseekers. Show all posts
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Jobseekers of Peachtree City - a Christmas message
JobSeekers of Peachtree City -
Helping People Find Good Jobs, Close to Home, in Minimum Time
Get out and about. Come to JobSeekers this week. Bring a friend.
If you're not looking, forward this message to someone who needs it.
In This Issue:
1. Inspiration: He Will Be Called Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
– Isaiah 9:6
I realize many of you are experiencing a sense of loss, or loneliness, or hurt, or fear, or frustration, or even desperation on this Christmas Eve.
When the prophet Isaiah wrote the verse above 2700 years ago, he was addressing the concerns of the troubled nation of Israel. Five verses prior he writes: "Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress." He continues to write about those in the midst of darkness, death, burdens and oppression. Then he offers his message of hope.
Hope is available to all of us through the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Experience the hope of the Wonderful Counselor. Tap into the power of the Mighty God. Lie in the arms of the Everlasting Father. Feel the love of the Prince of Peace.
I encourage you to attend a Christmas Eve service on Friday night.
If you don't have a church home, or if you wish to attend a service with a friend, call me on my cell phone: 770-823-2710. I'm a member of Peachtree City United Methodist at 225 Robinson Road. Our services are at 5:00, 7:00 and 9:00. I'm attending the 9:00 service, but I'll meet you at any one of these services 20 minutes before it starts. Just call me on my cell and we'll make arrangements.
(GEN friends, we would also love to have you worship here with us at First Presbyterian. Our Christmas Eve services are at 5 pm for families with children, and then again at 7 pm and 11 pm on 12/24. We will also have our 3 regular services on the Sunday after Christmas, at 8:15 am, 9:30 am, and 11 am. We welcome you! Even if we don't know your name, please be sure that we are praying for those who read this blog and are looking for a job. God knows your situation and has a plan for your life!)
May the love of the Holy Child of Bethlehem abide in your heart, and may the Prince of Peace fill you with hope and joy in this Christmas season. Amen.
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2. Success Story: Car Wreck, Broken Bones Part of the Journey to a New Job
We love to hear from you when you land a new position. Please write and let us know how you found your job, what you learned from the experience, and how JobSeekers helped you.
There are many times when someone lands and job and we find out about it months later. Matthew Iffland wrote me a few weeks ago to comment on an article I wrote. He was referring to my writing about the faith of the widow at Zarephath from 1 Kings 17:7-16. And then he proceeded to tell me about the trials and tribulations that led up to his new job. Congratulations Matthew!
Hey Dave. That is one of my favorite chapters in the Bible. We think giving is associated with loss, and loss keeps us from receiving God's abundance. She did not give away anything; she sowed into the prophet's life and got that her eyes off of her own situation. And look at what that small seed of faith and act of obedience did for her and her son! Money and things are seed to be sown into other people's lives! We all need to have a farmer's mentality. God's system is perfect and never suffers economic downturns. We just need to sow more. And then hope will be alive and well!
I am catering and doing the 'private chef thing' for my pastor and his family. It's going very well. I did an event for 150 people today. The gig in Buckhead was just temporary until this came along. It is funny though, the Chef at the club where I was working offered me the Chef's job, but the offer with my pastor came available, so I took that.
It was weird, for a little while there was nothing, then all of a sudden, all kinds of calls.
Don't know if you heard this, but on September 1st I was involved in a really bad car wreck and broke my leg again. I am thankful to be alive. My truck flipped twice and my door was ripped off. It has been an interesting year, but we never lacked anything. My bones are healed, and I'm recovering and getting my movement back.
Not sure where I would be without God's word. That has been my anchor. I feel like Paul – broke my leg, lost my job, had a car wreck and broke my leg again. Out of all of this, God delivered me! There is no one on this planet that can tell me that there is no God! I have learned to know him by experience. So what I do is keep going. I cannot complain, because I am alive and well. I keep my mind on him and he keeps me in perfect peace – nothing missing, nothing broken; complete wholeness.
It was very weird when I was in that accident. I was so calm and now understand and have experienced the peace that passes all understanding – in a totally chaotic situation. Pretty amazing stuff! Getting a job seems easy compared to all of this!
Hope all is well. I definitely had and have a lot to be thankful for!
Matthew, Matthew's Personal Chef and Catering
"Five star food. Five star service."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3. This Week's Meeting: No Meeting This Week!
Merry Christmas! See you Friday 7 January 2011.
Who: All are welcome; the topics are targeted for professionals, managers and executives.
What: JobSeekers is a nondenominational career ministry.
When: Friday mornings from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Where: First Baptist Church in Peachtree City; 208 Willow Bend Road.
Why: We work with you to find a job, and we walk with you on your journey of faith.
Attire: Business casual.
Agenda: 7:30 coffee / 7:45 welcome and devotional / 8:10 introductions and announcements / 8:45 job search training module / 10:00 adjourn to the Atlanta Bread Company
We look forward to seeing you on Friday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Networking
Atlanta Bread Company
After the JobSeekers meeting, we go to the ABC from 10:15 to 11:30 for an informal gathering. There's no agenda; we just have fellowship and help each other out.
Newnan First UMC Job Networking Ministry
Come join us at our next meeting on Tuesday 11 January 6:00 PM.
Meetings are always held the second Tuesday of each month in the Parish Hall of Newnan First United Methodist Church. The church is located at 33 Greenville Street in Newnan. You may reach them by telephone at 770-253-7400 or go to "newnanfumc.org" and select "Job Network" under "Resources" on the left side of the home page. We look forward to seeing you there.
College Park Job Seekers
Have a family member, friend or neighbor concerned that they may lose their job, and they cannot take time off to attend a job seekers group? Attend the College Park Job Seekers Group which meets the first Saturday in every month from 9:00 am – 11:30 am. The next meeting is Saturday 5 February. This is a community service of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5885 Mallory Road, College Park, Georgia 770-306-9922.
Career Transition / Job Search Workshop
New Hope Baptist Church / North Campus Missions Center
Wednesdays, January 12 – 26 from 6-8 PM
* * * Must register for class and complete online assessment prior to class * * *
To register call or email Lesley Deyton, 770-461-4337 ext 884 / lesleyd@newhopebc.org
Childcare is provided!
If you are looking for work or considering changing careers, this workshop is for you. Free gift assessment and workbook will help you discover how God has equipped you. Resume assistance and interview skills are also extensively covered. This workshop is designed to help you find the job(s) that you are gifted for and make the best first impression to land that job! Workshop led by Bruce King.
Helping People Find Good Jobs, Close to Home, in Minimum Time
Get out and about. Come to JobSeekers this week. Bring a friend.
If you're not looking, forward this message to someone who needs it.
In This Issue:
1. Inspiration: He Will Be Called Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
– Isaiah 9:6
I realize many of you are experiencing a sense of loss, or loneliness, or hurt, or fear, or frustration, or even desperation on this Christmas Eve.
When the prophet Isaiah wrote the verse above 2700 years ago, he was addressing the concerns of the troubled nation of Israel. Five verses prior he writes: "Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress." He continues to write about those in the midst of darkness, death, burdens and oppression. Then he offers his message of hope.
Hope is available to all of us through the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Experience the hope of the Wonderful Counselor. Tap into the power of the Mighty God. Lie in the arms of the Everlasting Father. Feel the love of the Prince of Peace.
I encourage you to attend a Christmas Eve service on Friday night.
If you don't have a church home, or if you wish to attend a service with a friend, call me on my cell phone: 770-823-2710. I'm a member of Peachtree City United Methodist at 225 Robinson Road. Our services are at 5:00, 7:00 and 9:00. I'm attending the 9:00 service, but I'll meet you at any one of these services 20 minutes before it starts. Just call me on my cell and we'll make arrangements.
(GEN friends, we would also love to have you worship here with us at First Presbyterian. Our Christmas Eve services are at 5 pm for families with children, and then again at 7 pm and 11 pm on 12/24. We will also have our 3 regular services on the Sunday after Christmas, at 8:15 am, 9:30 am, and 11 am. We welcome you! Even if we don't know your name, please be sure that we are praying for those who read this blog and are looking for a job. God knows your situation and has a plan for your life!)
May the love of the Holy Child of Bethlehem abide in your heart, and may the Prince of Peace fill you with hope and joy in this Christmas season. Amen.
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2. Success Story: Car Wreck, Broken Bones Part of the Journey to a New Job
We love to hear from you when you land a new position. Please write and let us know how you found your job, what you learned from the experience, and how JobSeekers helped you.
There are many times when someone lands and job and we find out about it months later. Matthew Iffland wrote me a few weeks ago to comment on an article I wrote. He was referring to my writing about the faith of the widow at Zarephath from 1 Kings 17:7-16. And then he proceeded to tell me about the trials and tribulations that led up to his new job. Congratulations Matthew!
Hey Dave. That is one of my favorite chapters in the Bible. We think giving is associated with loss, and loss keeps us from receiving God's abundance. She did not give away anything; she sowed into the prophet's life and got that her eyes off of her own situation. And look at what that small seed of faith and act of obedience did for her and her son! Money and things are seed to be sown into other people's lives! We all need to have a farmer's mentality. God's system is perfect and never suffers economic downturns. We just need to sow more. And then hope will be alive and well!
I am catering and doing the 'private chef thing' for my pastor and his family. It's going very well. I did an event for 150 people today. The gig in Buckhead was just temporary until this came along. It is funny though, the Chef at the club where I was working offered me the Chef's job, but the offer with my pastor came available, so I took that.
It was weird, for a little while there was nothing, then all of a sudden, all kinds of calls.
Don't know if you heard this, but on September 1st I was involved in a really bad car wreck and broke my leg again. I am thankful to be alive. My truck flipped twice and my door was ripped off. It has been an interesting year, but we never lacked anything. My bones are healed, and I'm recovering and getting my movement back.
Not sure where I would be without God's word. That has been my anchor. I feel like Paul – broke my leg, lost my job, had a car wreck and broke my leg again. Out of all of this, God delivered me! There is no one on this planet that can tell me that there is no God! I have learned to know him by experience. So what I do is keep going. I cannot complain, because I am alive and well. I keep my mind on him and he keeps me in perfect peace – nothing missing, nothing broken; complete wholeness.
It was very weird when I was in that accident. I was so calm and now understand and have experienced the peace that passes all understanding – in a totally chaotic situation. Pretty amazing stuff! Getting a job seems easy compared to all of this!
Hope all is well. I definitely had and have a lot to be thankful for!
Matthew, Matthew's Personal Chef and Catering
"Five star food. Five star service."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3. This Week's Meeting: No Meeting This Week!
Merry Christmas! See you Friday 7 January 2011.
Who: All are welcome; the topics are targeted for professionals, managers and executives.
What: JobSeekers is a nondenominational career ministry.
When: Friday mornings from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Where: First Baptist Church in Peachtree City; 208 Willow Bend Road.
Why: We work with you to find a job, and we walk with you on your journey of faith.
Attire: Business casual.
Agenda: 7:30 coffee / 7:45 welcome and devotional / 8:10 introductions and announcements / 8:45 job search training module / 10:00 adjourn to the Atlanta Bread Company
We look forward to seeing you on Friday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Networking
Atlanta Bread Company
After the JobSeekers meeting, we go to the ABC from 10:15 to 11:30 for an informal gathering. There's no agenda; we just have fellowship and help each other out.
Newnan First UMC Job Networking Ministry
Come join us at our next meeting on Tuesday 11 January 6:00 PM.
Meetings are always held the second Tuesday of each month in the Parish Hall of Newnan First United Methodist Church. The church is located at 33 Greenville Street in Newnan. You may reach them by telephone at 770-253-7400 or go to "newnanfumc.org" and select "Job Network" under "Resources" on the left side of the home page. We look forward to seeing you there.
College Park Job Seekers
Have a family member, friend or neighbor concerned that they may lose their job, and they cannot take time off to attend a job seekers group? Attend the College Park Job Seekers Group which meets the first Saturday in every month from 9:00 am – 11:30 am. The next meeting is Saturday 5 February. This is a community service of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5885 Mallory Road, College Park, Georgia 770-306-9922.
Career Transition / Job Search Workshop
New Hope Baptist Church / North Campus Missions Center
Wednesdays, January 12 – 26 from 6-8 PM
* * * Must register for class and complete online assessment prior to class * * *
To register call or email Lesley Deyton, 770-461-4337 ext 884 / lesleyd@newhopebc.org
Childcare is provided!
If you are looking for work or considering changing careers, this workshop is for you. Free gift assessment and workbook will help you discover how God has equipped you. Resume assistance and interview skills are also extensively covered. This workshop is designed to help you find the job(s) that you are gifted for and make the best first impression to land that job! Workshop led by Bruce King.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Would you go through a tornado for a new job??
This post is from our friend Dave O'Farrell and the good people of JobSeekers in Peachtree City. Read down to the testimonial from the Jobseeker who braved tornado weather to interview for--and land--a new job!
Helping People Find Good Jobs, Close to Home, in Minimum Time
Get out and about. Come to JobSeekers this week. Bring a friend.
If you're not looking, forward this message to someone who needs it.
In This Issue
1. Inspiration: Christmas from a New Perspective
2. Success Story: Tornado Warnings Don't Deter Scholarship Recipient
3. This Week's Meeting: Using Testimonials to Build Your Brand
4. Networking: ABC from 10:15 to 11:30
5. Job Leads: Leads and Links in South Metro Atlanta
6. Contact: Chaplain and Ship's Crew
7. Donate: You Could Help Save a Career, a Home or Even a Marriage
JobSeekers of PTC Website | JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Inspiration: Christmas from a New Perspective
If you are unemployed at Christmas for the first time this year -- or for the first time in many years -- I suppose you're looking at Christmas from a new perspective. (If you've had any other major life events this past year, you're probably looking at Christmas from a new perspective too.)
When your life and career are rockin' and rollin' along it's easy to say something like, "Money is nice, but it's not what makes me happy; I could live on a lot less." Or maybe something more like this: "Being a manager in a well-known company and having over 20 years of service is nice, but it's not what makes me happy; I would be content no matter what my circumstances."
Now that you've hit an inevitable bump in your life and career, maybe those words don't ring so true anymore. If they don't, I encourage you to listen to the disquiet spirit within you to figure out what your spirit saying. The message is important; it's up to you whether you listen and take heed.
When I hit a rough spot in my life and career, I had my prideful self-talk dashed against the rocks and pounded by the waves. Now I am learning not only to look at Christmas from a new perspective, but at all of life from a new perspective as well. I am being transformed by the renewing of my mind. (Notice the present tense here; I have a long way to go.)
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what's God's will is -- his good, pleasing and perfect will." -- Romans 12:2
The pattern of this world is "success." The world measures success in titles, degrees, income, houses, cars, toys, vacations, children and spouses. In Joy That Lasts, Gary Smalley describes how his life changed when he hit a rough spot: "For the first time I began to realize my major mistake: I was expecting to find fulfillment in people, places, possessions and position."
The pattern of the kingdom is "significance." Life is about moving from success to significance. It's about moving from the sinful, human nature that is within all of us toward a higher, Godlier nature. I wrote this a few years ago when I was struggling with this issue:
Christmas isn't about the money we spend; it's about the time we spend with God.
It's not about the gifts we give; it's about the love we give to one another.
It's not about preparing our homes for guests; it's about preparing our hearts for Christ.
- - - - - - -
Arriving at Christmas without a job is one more mile on your journey of faith, one more step in your sanctification process, one more call from God asking you to allow him into your heart -- or into the deeper recesses of your heart. In Ephesians 4:22-24 Paul said, "Put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."
Here are three quick points from Paul's words above:
1. Put off your old self.
He lists deceitful desires elsewhere in his letters; they include: anger, greed (which he says is idolatry), selfish ambition, lust and envy. (These five desires are selected from Galatians 5:19-21 and Colossians 3:5.) Referring to these desires in his song, "The Change," Steven Curtis Chapman sings, "I got this way of living that I have to die to every single day." Chapman says that even though he's a Christian, he still has to suppress his human nature every single day.
2. Adopt a new attitude.
You might have to fake it 'til you make it, but put on the best attitude you possibly can (except with God and about three close confidants). Nobody wants to hire Eeyore, so stop acting like him and start acting a little more like Tigger. Follow Paul's instruction in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
3. Put on the new self.
Here's where the growth occurs. God speaks to us through our feelings. If we are experiencing negative feelings, he is showing us an area for growth. As we grow we become more like Christ, as Paul explains in 2 Corinthians 3:18, "And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." As we grow we are transformed in Christ's likeness.
Christmas is about God's presence in our lives. He sent his Son, born a lowly birth, to live and die as one of us, a perfect example for all mankind. Take the three steps above; you will begin to experience God's peace and feel his presence in this Christmas season. Here are two final words for this week from Paul:
"Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace." -- Romans 8:5-8
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." -- Romans 15:13
See you tomorrow at JobSeekers, where life and joy and hope and peace and power abound.
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2. Success Story: Tornado Warnings Don't Deter Scholarship Recipient
We love to hear from you when you land a new position. Please write and let us know how you found your job, what you learned from the experience, and how JobSeekers helped you.
Last Thursday morning I made an appeal for donations to our scholarship fund. Last Thursday evening I received this message from a recent scholarship recipient, Bert J. For the first time ever, I am publishing a letter from a recipient who mentions this gift in his or her message. Thanks Bert!
You don't realize it, but you've read messages from other scholarship recipients. This is the fourth letter this year. Other scholarship recipients have spoken at JS when they landed their jobs, and three have done the devotional this year. It's really cool to see God's hand at work as their lives are transformed in the midst of the fire.
» Rekindle a career. Save a home. Transform a life.
» Donate to JobSeekers.
If your life has been positively influenced by the JobSeekers ministry, please make a financial contribution before the end of the year. Any amount will help, and the donation is tax-deductible. Please send it to: JobSeekers of PTC, P.O. Box 2124, Peachtree City, GA 30269. Thanks to the generous people who have donated in the past week; bless you all.
- - - - -
By the way, this job is perfect for Bert. He spent his early career at Marriott and his recent career in entrepreneurship. At Marriott, he was a Sous Chef, Banquet Manager, and Food and Beverage Director, among other things. You may be familiar with The Plumyumi Day Spa; he founded it in 1997 and sold it in 2004.
- - - - -
Hi Dave,
On Tuesday, November 23, I sat down at my PC and decided I'd look under some rocks; I went online with Craigslist to search postings for every Craigslist city in a 500-mile radius from Atlanta. I knew beforehand that only 5-8% of all jobs are found through newspapers and job boards. Additionally, this search put me way out of my target geography.
I sent my resume and appropriate cover letter from my communications plan to four CL postings. Six days later, on Monday, November 29, I had a phone interview with the owner of a bed and breakfast inn at Hotel Defuniak in Defuniak Springs Florida. He had already filled the position; however, three days earlier, the person he hired backed out for personal reasons. They wanted me to come the next day for an interview in Defuniak Springs.
I left at noon on Tuesday in the middle of tornado warnings and a torrential downpour. Concerned that my truck might not make the drive, I went in a borrowed sub-compact. In the severe weather, the usual five-hour drive took over seven hours. A mile away from the hotel, I pulled into an abandoned gas station, still in a downpour, and changed into a pressed dress shirt and dress shoes. I walked into the hotel lobby with my best-ever first impression smile across my face, eye contact and firm handshake. The only thing I could hear was seven hours of the windshield wiper's "SHWISH-SHWISH-SHWISH-SHWISH" going through my head as I introduced myself.
I got a one-hour interview, a two-hour three-course dinner, an overnight B&B suite, breakfast the next morning, another two hour conversation, and a job offer on the spot. I just signed my offer letter.
My package includes half of my target income, however I will receive a furnished innkeeper's suite, all utilities, cable and phone provided plus breakfast every morning and my suite cleaned for $10 a week.
I will live a half hour from the beach.
OK, I can do this job!
A nice bonus package was also included.
I got major points for:
§ Leaving some old but very relevant work history in my résumé.
§ Offering that a trip to Florida the very next day was no problem.
§ Driving seven hours through tornado warnings to get there.
§ Initially they asked if I could start on Sunday, 12/5 and I told them, "absolutely no problem" (when it really was a huge problem).
There is nothing about finding this job lead or the immediacy of the interview or the borrowed car or the tornado warnings or changing in an abandoned gas station in a downpour or having to endure a really nice dinner and deluxe suite that was orthodox.
Everything about this process was so totally off the wall, but hey Dave, I got the job!
My word to other job seekers is to expect the unexpected and GET OUT OF THE BOX and out of your comfort zone – and something that seems really weird and requires you to do really weird things (like changing in an abandoned gas station) might end up being a job.
I got this job only because of the generosity of others.
The generous love, support and encouragement of my fellow JS and small support group members. The generous support and encouragement of ALL the Ship's Crew. The generous financial contributions of others to the scholarship fund made your workshop a reality. So please, get a jar and put a "Scholarship Fund" label on it and stick it at the end of the doughnut table.
I shared my season of loss and sorrow with you and the Ship's Crew. I did not know, when I found my new job, how I could possibly afford appropriate clothes or how I would be able to afford new housing or utility deposits or if I did find something out of Georgia how could I afford moving my stuff. Enter God, stage right. All handled. Just like that. All I had to do was drive seven hours through a tornado warning.
Thanks for everything Dave.
Bert J.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3. This Week's Meeting: Using Testimonials to Build Your Brand
This week you will learn (or learn more about) how to use testimonials to build your brand. I've had several clients credit this specific process and the accompanying tool as the key to landing a new job.
To be better prepared for the meeting, bring letters of recommendation, performance evaluations with strong praise in them, and hand-written "thank you" notes that you have received. Come Friday to learn the secrets of creating a truly powerful, brand-building set of references!
Who: All are welcome; the topics are targeted for professionals, managers and executives.
What: JobSeekers is a nondenominational career ministry.
When: Friday mornings from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Where: First Baptist Church in Peachtree City; 208 Willow Bend Road.
Why: We work with you to find a job, and we walk with you on your journey of faith.
Attire: Business casual.
Agenda: 7:30 coffee / 7:45 welcome and devotional / 8:10 introductions and announcements / 8:45 job search training module / 10:00 adjourn to the Atlanta Bread Company
We look forward to seeing you on Friday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Networking
Atlanta Bread Company
After the JobSeekers meeting, we go to the ABC from 10:15 to 11:30 for an informal gathering. There's no agenda; we just have fellowship and help each other out.
Newnan First UMC Job Networking Ministry
Come join us at our next meeting on Tuesday 14 December 6:00 PM.
Meetings are always held the second Tuesday of each month in the Parish Hall of Newnan First United Methodist Church. The church is located at 33 Greenville Street in Newnan. You may reach them by telephone at 770-253-7400 or go to "newnanfumc.org" and select "Job Network" under "Resources" on the left side of the home page. We look forward to seeing you there.
College Park Job Seekers
Have a family member, friend or neighbor concerned that they may lose their job, and they cannot take time off to attend a job seekers group? Attend the College Park Job Seekers Group which meets the first Saturday in every month from 9:00 am – 11:30 am. The next meeting is Saturday 8 January. This is a community service of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5885 Mallory Road, College Park, Georgia 770-306-9922.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Helping People Find Good Jobs, Close to Home, in Minimum Time
Get out and about. Come to JobSeekers this week. Bring a friend.
If you're not looking, forward this message to someone who needs it.
In This Issue
1. Inspiration: Christmas from a New Perspective
2. Success Story: Tornado Warnings Don't Deter Scholarship Recipient
3. This Week's Meeting: Using Testimonials to Build Your Brand
4. Networking: ABC from 10:15 to 11:30
5. Job Leads: Leads and Links in South Metro Atlanta
6. Contact: Chaplain and Ship's Crew
7. Donate: You Could Help Save a Career, a Home or Even a Marriage
JobSeekers of PTC Website | JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Inspiration: Christmas from a New Perspective
If you are unemployed at Christmas for the first time this year -- or for the first time in many years -- I suppose you're looking at Christmas from a new perspective. (If you've had any other major life events this past year, you're probably looking at Christmas from a new perspective too.)
When your life and career are rockin' and rollin' along it's easy to say something like, "Money is nice, but it's not what makes me happy; I could live on a lot less." Or maybe something more like this: "Being a manager in a well-known company and having over 20 years of service is nice, but it's not what makes me happy; I would be content no matter what my circumstances."
Now that you've hit an inevitable bump in your life and career, maybe those words don't ring so true anymore. If they don't, I encourage you to listen to the disquiet spirit within you to figure out what your spirit saying. The message is important; it's up to you whether you listen and take heed.
When I hit a rough spot in my life and career, I had my prideful self-talk dashed against the rocks and pounded by the waves. Now I am learning not only to look at Christmas from a new perspective, but at all of life from a new perspective as well. I am being transformed by the renewing of my mind. (Notice the present tense here; I have a long way to go.)
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what's God's will is -- his good, pleasing and perfect will." -- Romans 12:2
The pattern of this world is "success." The world measures success in titles, degrees, income, houses, cars, toys, vacations, children and spouses. In Joy That Lasts, Gary Smalley describes how his life changed when he hit a rough spot: "For the first time I began to realize my major mistake: I was expecting to find fulfillment in people, places, possessions and position."
The pattern of the kingdom is "significance." Life is about moving from success to significance. It's about moving from the sinful, human nature that is within all of us toward a higher, Godlier nature. I wrote this a few years ago when I was struggling with this issue:
Christmas isn't about the money we spend; it's about the time we spend with God.
It's not about the gifts we give; it's about the love we give to one another.
It's not about preparing our homes for guests; it's about preparing our hearts for Christ.
- - - - - - -
Arriving at Christmas without a job is one more mile on your journey of faith, one more step in your sanctification process, one more call from God asking you to allow him into your heart -- or into the deeper recesses of your heart. In Ephesians 4:22-24 Paul said, "Put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."
Here are three quick points from Paul's words above:
1. Put off your old self.
He lists deceitful desires elsewhere in his letters; they include: anger, greed (which he says is idolatry), selfish ambition, lust and envy. (These five desires are selected from Galatians 5:19-21 and Colossians 3:5.) Referring to these desires in his song, "The Change," Steven Curtis Chapman sings, "I got this way of living that I have to die to every single day." Chapman says that even though he's a Christian, he still has to suppress his human nature every single day.
2. Adopt a new attitude.
You might have to fake it 'til you make it, but put on the best attitude you possibly can (except with God and about three close confidants). Nobody wants to hire Eeyore, so stop acting like him and start acting a little more like Tigger. Follow Paul's instruction in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
3. Put on the new self.
Here's where the growth occurs. God speaks to us through our feelings. If we are experiencing negative feelings, he is showing us an area for growth. As we grow we become more like Christ, as Paul explains in 2 Corinthians 3:18, "And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." As we grow we are transformed in Christ's likeness.
Christmas is about God's presence in our lives. He sent his Son, born a lowly birth, to live and die as one of us, a perfect example for all mankind. Take the three steps above; you will begin to experience God's peace and feel his presence in this Christmas season. Here are two final words for this week from Paul:
"Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace." -- Romans 8:5-8
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." -- Romans 15:13
See you tomorrow at JobSeekers, where life and joy and hope and peace and power abound.
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2. Success Story: Tornado Warnings Don't Deter Scholarship Recipient
We love to hear from you when you land a new position. Please write and let us know how you found your job, what you learned from the experience, and how JobSeekers helped you.
Last Thursday morning I made an appeal for donations to our scholarship fund. Last Thursday evening I received this message from a recent scholarship recipient, Bert J. For the first time ever, I am publishing a letter from a recipient who mentions this gift in his or her message. Thanks Bert!
You don't realize it, but you've read messages from other scholarship recipients. This is the fourth letter this year. Other scholarship recipients have spoken at JS when they landed their jobs, and three have done the devotional this year. It's really cool to see God's hand at work as their lives are transformed in the midst of the fire.
» Rekindle a career. Save a home. Transform a life.
» Donate to JobSeekers.
If your life has been positively influenced by the JobSeekers ministry, please make a financial contribution before the end of the year. Any amount will help, and the donation is tax-deductible. Please send it to: JobSeekers of PTC, P.O. Box 2124, Peachtree City, GA 30269. Thanks to the generous people who have donated in the past week; bless you all.
- - - - -
By the way, this job is perfect for Bert. He spent his early career at Marriott and his recent career in entrepreneurship. At Marriott, he was a Sous Chef, Banquet Manager, and Food and Beverage Director, among other things. You may be familiar with The Plumyumi Day Spa; he founded it in 1997 and sold it in 2004.
- - - - -
Hi Dave,
On Tuesday, November 23, I sat down at my PC and decided I'd look under some rocks; I went online with Craigslist to search postings for every Craigslist city in a 500-mile radius from Atlanta. I knew beforehand that only 5-8% of all jobs are found through newspapers and job boards. Additionally, this search put me way out of my target geography.
I sent my resume and appropriate cover letter from my communications plan to four CL postings. Six days later, on Monday, November 29, I had a phone interview with the owner of a bed and breakfast inn at Hotel Defuniak in Defuniak Springs Florida. He had already filled the position; however, three days earlier, the person he hired backed out for personal reasons. They wanted me to come the next day for an interview in Defuniak Springs.
I left at noon on Tuesday in the middle of tornado warnings and a torrential downpour. Concerned that my truck might not make the drive, I went in a borrowed sub-compact. In the severe weather, the usual five-hour drive took over seven hours. A mile away from the hotel, I pulled into an abandoned gas station, still in a downpour, and changed into a pressed dress shirt and dress shoes. I walked into the hotel lobby with my best-ever first impression smile across my face, eye contact and firm handshake. The only thing I could hear was seven hours of the windshield wiper's "SHWISH-SHWISH-SHWISH-SHWISH" going through my head as I introduced myself.
I got a one-hour interview, a two-hour three-course dinner, an overnight B&B suite, breakfast the next morning, another two hour conversation, and a job offer on the spot. I just signed my offer letter.
My package includes half of my target income, however I will receive a furnished innkeeper's suite, all utilities, cable and phone provided plus breakfast every morning and my suite cleaned for $10 a week.
I will live a half hour from the beach.
OK, I can do this job!
A nice bonus package was also included.
I got major points for:
§ Leaving some old but very relevant work history in my résumé.
§ Offering that a trip to Florida the very next day was no problem.
§ Driving seven hours through tornado warnings to get there.
§ Initially they asked if I could start on Sunday, 12/5 and I told them, "absolutely no problem" (when it really was a huge problem).
There is nothing about finding this job lead or the immediacy of the interview or the borrowed car or the tornado warnings or changing in an abandoned gas station in a downpour or having to endure a really nice dinner and deluxe suite that was orthodox.
Everything about this process was so totally off the wall, but hey Dave, I got the job!
My word to other job seekers is to expect the unexpected and GET OUT OF THE BOX and out of your comfort zone – and something that seems really weird and requires you to do really weird things (like changing in an abandoned gas station) might end up being a job.
I got this job only because of the generosity of others.
The generous love, support and encouragement of my fellow JS and small support group members. The generous support and encouragement of ALL the Ship's Crew. The generous financial contributions of others to the scholarship fund made your workshop a reality. So please, get a jar and put a "Scholarship Fund" label on it and stick it at the end of the doughnut table.
I shared my season of loss and sorrow with you and the Ship's Crew. I did not know, when I found my new job, how I could possibly afford appropriate clothes or how I would be able to afford new housing or utility deposits or if I did find something out of Georgia how could I afford moving my stuff. Enter God, stage right. All handled. Just like that. All I had to do was drive seven hours through a tornado warning.
Thanks for everything Dave.
Bert J.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3. This Week's Meeting: Using Testimonials to Build Your Brand
This week you will learn (or learn more about) how to use testimonials to build your brand. I've had several clients credit this specific process and the accompanying tool as the key to landing a new job.
To be better prepared for the meeting, bring letters of recommendation, performance evaluations with strong praise in them, and hand-written "thank you" notes that you have received. Come Friday to learn the secrets of creating a truly powerful, brand-building set of references!
Who: All are welcome; the topics are targeted for professionals, managers and executives.
What: JobSeekers is a nondenominational career ministry.
When: Friday mornings from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Where: First Baptist Church in Peachtree City; 208 Willow Bend Road.
Why: We work with you to find a job, and we walk with you on your journey of faith.
Attire: Business casual.
Agenda: 7:30 coffee / 7:45 welcome and devotional / 8:10 introductions and announcements / 8:45 job search training module / 10:00 adjourn to the Atlanta Bread Company
We look forward to seeing you on Friday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Networking
Atlanta Bread Company
After the JobSeekers meeting, we go to the ABC from 10:15 to 11:30 for an informal gathering. There's no agenda; we just have fellowship and help each other out.
Newnan First UMC Job Networking Ministry
Come join us at our next meeting on Tuesday 14 December 6:00 PM.
Meetings are always held the second Tuesday of each month in the Parish Hall of Newnan First United Methodist Church. The church is located at 33 Greenville Street in Newnan. You may reach them by telephone at 770-253-7400 or go to "newnanfumc.org" and select "Job Network" under "Resources" on the left side of the home page. We look forward to seeing you there.
College Park Job Seekers
Have a family member, friend or neighbor concerned that they may lose their job, and they cannot take time off to attend a job seekers group? Attend the College Park Job Seekers Group which meets the first Saturday in every month from 9:00 am – 11:30 am. The next meeting is Saturday 8 January. This is a community service of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5885 Mallory Road, College Park, Georgia 770-306-9922.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thursday, December 2, 2010
JobSeekers of Peachtree City - Hope to Cheer You
JobSeekers of Peachtree City
Helping People Find Good Jobs, Close to Home, in Minimum Time
Get out and about. Come to JobSeekers this week. Bring a friend.
If you're not looking, forward this message to someone who needs it.
In This Issue
1. Inspiration: Are You Melancholy or Merry This Christmas?
2. Success Story: Barton Cites Knowledge from JobSeekers as Key to Success
3. This Week's Meeting: Articulating Past Achievements
4. Networking: ABC from 10:15 to 11:30
5. Job Leads: Leads and Links in South Metro Atlanta
6. Contact: Chaplain and Ship's Crew
7. Donate: You Could Help Save a Career, a Home or Even a Marriage
JobSeekers of PTC Website | JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
We need your help.
We don't talk about it a lot, but we have a scholarship program to help job seekers who are in a very difficult job search situation. There are three criteria for eligibility: the individual must have been out of work for at least 90 days, must have a demonstrable economic need, and must not have been offered outplacement services. On any given Friday, we have several people who would be eligible, but we don't have the money. In fact, we've only provided a scholarship to nine people in 2010.
This is my fault; I do a lousy job with fundraising.
The people who do receive a scholarship have typically been out of work for a year or more, and have been coming to JobSeekers regularly for many months. One gentleman had been out of work for three months when he first came to JobSeekers, and had come to 37 out of 45 meetings in the next 11 months before being awarded a scholarship. He landed a job five weeks later. The twist? He got a raise of about $7K after being out of work for 14 months. Seven months later his new company had a layoff; his job was impacted. He landed another job – at the same salary – one week later.
One recent recipient described this as a "transformational experience."
You can make a difference.
If your life has been positively influenced by the JobSeekers ministry, we ask you to consider making a financial contribution before the end of the year. Any amount will help, and the donation is tax-deductible. Please send it to: JobSeekers of PTC, P.O. Box 2124, Peachtree City, GA 30269. Thank you and bless you.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Inspiration: Are You Melancholy or Merry This Christmas?
Christmas is supposed to be a time of great joy; as the songs say, "It's the most wonderful time of the year." And, "City sidewalks, busy sidewalks, meeting smile after smile." And finally, "Joy to the world, the Lord is come." I remember a high school teacher who asked me if I'd gotten the Christmas "spirit" yet. I hadn't, and I wondered what was wrong with me. Maybe you haven't gotten the Christmas spirit this year, and you're wondering if there is something wrong with you.
Melancholy or merry? Many of us experience a profound sense of loss during this season of joy. We may find it harder to be cheerful when we don't have a job. In addition to being unemployed, many of us are more worried about making the mortgage payment than buying Christmas presents. On top of this, maybe we've lost our health, or we're coping with the poor health of a loved one; things seem overwhelming. Some marriages are at the breaking point; families teeter above the great chasm of divorce. Other marriages have failed. Some of us have relatives deployed overseas. Some will cope with our first Christmas after the death of a child, spouse, parent, sibling or close friend.
Some of us feel hurt, fear and frustration as the days drone on and on without a faint shadow of a job anywhere in sight. All these sensations are often more poignant at Christmas when everyone else seems so happy.
Sometimes the seasons of the year aren't synched up with the seasons of our life. If you're melancholy this Christmas, that's okay! Hang in there! I have good news: you're going to get a job -- it's not a matter of "if" but "when." More good news: at JobSeekers, we love you and want to walk with you on your journey. Even more good news: God loves you in the midst of your melancholy mood.
If you're melancholy instead of merry this Christmas, here's what I recommend:
1. Be your authentic self.
Don't pretend you're happy when you're not. I know someone who took his own life on Christmas Eve; he was the "happiest" person you'd want to meet, or so we thought. Be your authentic self. Bottled up negative feelings are like a cancer inside your body; they will do their best to kill you. Be joyful with most people, but for a few, take your mask off. Tell God and three trusted advisors how you are really feeling. Healing power is on the way.
2. Never, never, never give up.
Don't give up; it only makes matters worse. Many JobSeekers talk about the emotional roller coaster of job search. On the roller coaster, at least, good days offset some of the bad days. Others, however, talk about the downward spiral. This is more troubling because life gets darker and darker; hope less and less. Fight back! Hope is to the soul what air is to the body; have hope in spite of your circumstances. Renewed hope is on the way.
3. Think RED For the Holidays.
Rest, exercise and diet form the three-legged stool of good physical and mental health. Articles on conquering the blues consistently list these three items as keys to success. Instead of backsliding during the holiday season, take steps today to make incremental improvements in your rest, exercise and diet patterns. Next month, take another step. Better health is on the way.
4. Volunteer.
Psychologist Joan Borysenko, PhD, says, "Deliver presents for Santa or help at a homeless shelter. This is really the top thing that people can do to turn their holiday blues around. Altruism and volunteerism make you feel better about yourself; they also get you out of your rut, your home and your isolation. This is a time of year where the spirit of helping and compassion is right there. If you can tap into it by helping others, that's great!" Fulfillment is on the way.
5. Have faith in God.
Hebrews 11:1 says, "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for, certain of what we do not see." You may not see a new job on the horizon or an end to your financial struggles. You may not see an end to other difficulties you are facing. God is at work in your life, even when you can't see the fruits of his work. Don't lose faith! A new job, better days and happier times are on the way.
6. Rejoice anyway.
God doesn't promise our lives will be easy, but he does promise to always be with us. "The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." (Deuteronomy 31:8) And in the last verse of Matthew's gospel, Jesus promises, "I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Rejoice in Immanuel -- God with us. Joy is on the way.
7. Remember the best news of all.
If you're melancholy instead of merry, know this: Christ was born to be with you, especially during the most difficult days of your life. When everything else you hold dear is gone, you still have the love of God. God's gift to you is his son Jesus. "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life." Christ is on the way.
Healing power, hope, better health, fulfillment, new jobs, better days, happier times and joy are on the way. Best of all, Christ is on the way. Ask God to have mercy on you. Lay your burdens at the foot of the cross; the cross where he died for you. Lift your eyes to him. Ask him to come into your heart so you can feel the warmth of his presence. Place your hope in him -- your strength and redeemer. Ask for his blessings so you may bless others. Thank him for loving you, and for reminding you of his love by sending the Light of the World in the form of an infant son.
See you tomorrow at JobSeekers, where we rejoice in Immanuel -- God with us.
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Helping People Find Good Jobs, Close to Home, in Minimum Time
Get out and about. Come to JobSeekers this week. Bring a friend.
If you're not looking, forward this message to someone who needs it.
In This Issue
1. Inspiration: Are You Melancholy or Merry This Christmas?
2. Success Story: Barton Cites Knowledge from JobSeekers as Key to Success
3. This Week's Meeting: Articulating Past Achievements
4. Networking: ABC from 10:15 to 11:30
5. Job Leads: Leads and Links in South Metro Atlanta
6. Contact: Chaplain and Ship's Crew
7. Donate: You Could Help Save a Career, a Home or Even a Marriage
JobSeekers of PTC Website | JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
We need your help.
We don't talk about it a lot, but we have a scholarship program to help job seekers who are in a very difficult job search situation. There are three criteria for eligibility: the individual must have been out of work for at least 90 days, must have a demonstrable economic need, and must not have been offered outplacement services. On any given Friday, we have several people who would be eligible, but we don't have the money. In fact, we've only provided a scholarship to nine people in 2010.
This is my fault; I do a lousy job with fundraising.
The people who do receive a scholarship have typically been out of work for a year or more, and have been coming to JobSeekers regularly for many months. One gentleman had been out of work for three months when he first came to JobSeekers, and had come to 37 out of 45 meetings in the next 11 months before being awarded a scholarship. He landed a job five weeks later. The twist? He got a raise of about $7K after being out of work for 14 months. Seven months later his new company had a layoff; his job was impacted. He landed another job – at the same salary – one week later.
One recent recipient described this as a "transformational experience."
You can make a difference.
If your life has been positively influenced by the JobSeekers ministry, we ask you to consider making a financial contribution before the end of the year. Any amount will help, and the donation is tax-deductible. Please send it to: JobSeekers of PTC, P.O. Box 2124, Peachtree City, GA 30269. Thank you and bless you.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Inspiration: Are You Melancholy or Merry This Christmas?
Christmas is supposed to be a time of great joy; as the songs say, "It's the most wonderful time of the year." And, "City sidewalks, busy sidewalks, meeting smile after smile." And finally, "Joy to the world, the Lord is come." I remember a high school teacher who asked me if I'd gotten the Christmas "spirit" yet. I hadn't, and I wondered what was wrong with me. Maybe you haven't gotten the Christmas spirit this year, and you're wondering if there is something wrong with you.
Melancholy or merry? Many of us experience a profound sense of loss during this season of joy. We may find it harder to be cheerful when we don't have a job. In addition to being unemployed, many of us are more worried about making the mortgage payment than buying Christmas presents. On top of this, maybe we've lost our health, or we're coping with the poor health of a loved one; things seem overwhelming. Some marriages are at the breaking point; families teeter above the great chasm of divorce. Other marriages have failed. Some of us have relatives deployed overseas. Some will cope with our first Christmas after the death of a child, spouse, parent, sibling or close friend.
Some of us feel hurt, fear and frustration as the days drone on and on without a faint shadow of a job anywhere in sight. All these sensations are often more poignant at Christmas when everyone else seems so happy.
Sometimes the seasons of the year aren't synched up with the seasons of our life. If you're melancholy this Christmas, that's okay! Hang in there! I have good news: you're going to get a job -- it's not a matter of "if" but "when." More good news: at JobSeekers, we love you and want to walk with you on your journey. Even more good news: God loves you in the midst of your melancholy mood.
If you're melancholy instead of merry this Christmas, here's what I recommend:
1. Be your authentic self.
Don't pretend you're happy when you're not. I know someone who took his own life on Christmas Eve; he was the "happiest" person you'd want to meet, or so we thought. Be your authentic self. Bottled up negative feelings are like a cancer inside your body; they will do their best to kill you. Be joyful with most people, but for a few, take your mask off. Tell God and three trusted advisors how you are really feeling. Healing power is on the way.
2. Never, never, never give up.
Don't give up; it only makes matters worse. Many JobSeekers talk about the emotional roller coaster of job search. On the roller coaster, at least, good days offset some of the bad days. Others, however, talk about the downward spiral. This is more troubling because life gets darker and darker; hope less and less. Fight back! Hope is to the soul what air is to the body; have hope in spite of your circumstances. Renewed hope is on the way.
3. Think RED For the Holidays.
Rest, exercise and diet form the three-legged stool of good physical and mental health. Articles on conquering the blues consistently list these three items as keys to success. Instead of backsliding during the holiday season, take steps today to make incremental improvements in your rest, exercise and diet patterns. Next month, take another step. Better health is on the way.
4. Volunteer.
Psychologist Joan Borysenko, PhD, says, "Deliver presents for Santa or help at a homeless shelter. This is really the top thing that people can do to turn their holiday blues around. Altruism and volunteerism make you feel better about yourself; they also get you out of your rut, your home and your isolation. This is a time of year where the spirit of helping and compassion is right there. If you can tap into it by helping others, that's great!" Fulfillment is on the way.
5. Have faith in God.
Hebrews 11:1 says, "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for, certain of what we do not see." You may not see a new job on the horizon or an end to your financial struggles. You may not see an end to other difficulties you are facing. God is at work in your life, even when you can't see the fruits of his work. Don't lose faith! A new job, better days and happier times are on the way.
6. Rejoice anyway.
God doesn't promise our lives will be easy, but he does promise to always be with us. "The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." (Deuteronomy 31:8) And in the last verse of Matthew's gospel, Jesus promises, "I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Rejoice in Immanuel -- God with us. Joy is on the way.
7. Remember the best news of all.
If you're melancholy instead of merry, know this: Christ was born to be with you, especially during the most difficult days of your life. When everything else you hold dear is gone, you still have the love of God. God's gift to you is his son Jesus. "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life." Christ is on the way.
Healing power, hope, better health, fulfillment, new jobs, better days, happier times and joy are on the way. Best of all, Christ is on the way. Ask God to have mercy on you. Lay your burdens at the foot of the cross; the cross where he died for you. Lift your eyes to him. Ask him to come into your heart so you can feel the warmth of his presence. Place your hope in him -- your strength and redeemer. Ask for his blessings so you may bless others. Thank him for loving you, and for reminding you of his love by sending the Light of the World in the form of an infant son.
See you tomorrow at JobSeekers, where we rejoice in Immanuel -- God with us.
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
JobSeekers of Peachtree City
JobSeekers of Peachtree City
Helping People Find Good Jobs, Close to Home, in Minimum Time
Get out and about. Come to JobSeekers this week. Bring a friend.
If you're not looking, forward this message to someone who needs it.
In This Issue
1. Inspiration: God Provides to Those Who Are Faithful. Amen!
2. Success Story: JobSeekers Was "The Wind Beneath My Wings"
3. This Week's Meeting: No Meeting this Week; Happy Thanksgiving!
4. Networking: ABC from 10:15 to 11:30
5. Job Leads: Leads and Links in South Metro Atlanta
6. Contact: Chaplain and Ship's Crew
7. Donate: You Could Help Save a Career, a Home or Even a Marriage
JobSeekers of PTC Website | JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Inspiration: God Provides to Those Who Are Faithful. Amen!
I hope all of you will take some time this week to give thanks for the many blessings our Lord has given you. Even during the cold and dreary periods of our lives, we still have more blessings than we realize. I acknowledge that finding warmth and sunshine in the midst of a job search and other challenges is more difficult for some of us than for others; and more difficult during particular times than others.
On Sunday 11 November 2002 -- during a cold and dreary period of my life -- I spent the day sightseeing around Los Angeles. I was in the middle of a two-week training assignment in Rancho Cucamonga. In the morning I went to Mission San Juan Capistrano. You may have heard of this place because it's where the swallows come around March 19 each year.
Mission San Juan Capistrano is named for St. John of Capistrano, Italy, who was a theologian in the 14th century. It was established 234 years ago, on 1 November 1776. It was the seventh mission founded by Father Junipero Serra. The Mission has the distinction of being home to the oldest building in California still in use -- a chapel built in 1782, and now known as "Serra's Chapel."
The peace of God was in that beautiful place. I took my Bible and did my daily reading for the Bible study class I was taking at church. The story I read was in 1 Kings 17; the story of the widow in Zarephath, who was down to her very last meal. The scene took place near the end of a three-year drought in Israel and Judah. God sent Elijah to her town, and in a separate message, God commanded her to supply Elijah with food, which she obediently did. Why would someone give away his or her very last meal? Here's the story:
The Widow at Zarephath (1 Kings 17:7-16)
Some time later the brook dried up because there had been no rain in the land. Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah: "Go at once to Zarephath of Sidon and stay there. I have commanded a widow in that place to supply you with food." So he went to Zarephath. When he came to the town gate, a widow was there gathering sticks. He called to her and asked, "Would you bring me a little water in a jar so I may have a drink?" As she was going to get it, he called, "And bring me, please, a piece of bread."
"As surely as the LORD your God lives," she replied, "I don't have any bread -- only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and make a meal for myself and my son, that we may eat it -- and die."
Elijah said to her, "Don't be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small cake of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son. For this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the LORD gives rain on the land.'"
She went away and did as Elijah had told her. So there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her family. For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the LORD spoken by Elijah.
# # #
What struck me about this story was the powerful faith of the widow. She gave Elijah some food before she fed her son and herself. Even when it seemed she had nothing left to give, she gave. Her faith was rewarded. It was just the message I needed to hear that day, because it was during a time in my life where my tank was empty. I wrote in the margin of my Bible: "11 Nov 02 -- God provides to those who are faithful. Amen!"
I know some of you feel that you are down to your very last meal. I'm amazed at how some of you have hung in there in the face of many, many disappointments. My message to you is this: be strong in the Lord, have faith in God, lay your cares at Jesus' feet; and you will experience God's peace, presence, power and protection.
Have faith that your jar of flour will not be used up and your jug of oil will not run dry until the day the LORD gives rain on your land.
See you on Friday 3 December at JobSeekers, where we live in the abundance of God's grace!
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2. Success Story: JobSeekers Was "The Wind Beneath My Wings"
We love to hear from you when you land a new position. Please write and let us know how you found your job, what you learned from the experience, and how JobSeekers helped you.
Pat was at JS last week to say 'good luck and farewell.' Here's her letter. Congratulations Pat!
- - - - -
Hi Dave,
For the past four months, I have introduced myself at JobSeekers each week as an administrative professional. This week, I can say I am (withheld for privacy). I received and accepted the job offer on Monday and I start next week.
This opportunity came about as a result of networking -- my son's networking on my behalf. He made the initial contact to put me in touch with the right person, but I was able to close the deal due to the skills and techniques that you teach us each Friday at JobSeekers. If I had not attended Linda's résumé booster class and revised my résumé, I don't think I would have been called for the first interview. Had I not prepared stories and practiced my responses for behavioral interview questions [from "Acing the Behavioral Interview" at JS on 10/29], I would not have been called back for the second interview.
In this season of Thanksgiving, I am extremely grateful for all your help and that of all the Ship's Crew. The JobSeekers ministry was truly the "wind beneath my wings," giving me knowledge, encouragement, support and fellowship to help rebuild my confidence.
Thank you!
May God bless you,
Pat
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3. This Week's Meeting: No Meeting this Week; Happy Thanksgiving
But network while you are out and about with family and friends!
Who: All are welcome; the topics are targeted for professionals, managers and executives.
What: JobSeekers is a nondenominational career ministry.
When: Friday mornings from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Where: First Baptist Church in Peachtree City; 208 Willow Bend Road.
Why: We work with you to find a job, and we walk with you on your journey of faith.
Attire: Business casual.
Agenda: 7:30 coffee / 7:45 welcome and devotional / 8:10 introductions and announcements / 8:45 job search training module / 10:00 adjourn to the Atlanta Bread Company
We look forward to seeing you on Friday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Networking
Atlanta Bread Company
After the JobSeekers meeting, we go to the ABC from 10:15 to 11:30 for an informal gathering. There's no agenda; we just have fellowship and help each other out.
Newnan First UMC Job Networking Ministry
Come join us at our next meeting on Tuesday 14 December 6:00 PM.
Meetings are always held the second Tuesday of each month in the Parish Hall of Newnan First United Methodist Church. The church is located at 33 Greenville Street in Newnan. You may reach them by telephone at 770-253-7400 or go to "newnanfumc.org" and select "Job Network" under "Resources" on the left side of the home page. We look forward to seeing you there.
College Park Job Seekers
Have a family member, friend or neighbor concerned that they may lose their job, and they cannot take time off to attend a job seekers group? Attend the College Park Job Seekers Group which meets the first Saturday in every month from 9:00 am – 11:30 am. The next meeting is Saturday 4 December. This is a community service of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5885 Mallory Road, College Park, Georgia 770-306-9922.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
For JobSeekers
Leads are updated each week, or when I get a chance! Please forgive me if they are a little out of date. Go to "jobseekers-ptc.org" and navigate to the job leads page.
Helping People Find Good Jobs, Close to Home, in Minimum Time
Get out and about. Come to JobSeekers this week. Bring a friend.
If you're not looking, forward this message to someone who needs it.
In This Issue
1. Inspiration: God Provides to Those Who Are Faithful. Amen!
2. Success Story: JobSeekers Was "The Wind Beneath My Wings"
3. This Week's Meeting: No Meeting this Week; Happy Thanksgiving!
4. Networking: ABC from 10:15 to 11:30
5. Job Leads: Leads and Links in South Metro Atlanta
6. Contact: Chaplain and Ship's Crew
7. Donate: You Could Help Save a Career, a Home or Even a Marriage
JobSeekers of PTC Website | JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Inspiration: God Provides to Those Who Are Faithful. Amen!
I hope all of you will take some time this week to give thanks for the many blessings our Lord has given you. Even during the cold and dreary periods of our lives, we still have more blessings than we realize. I acknowledge that finding warmth and sunshine in the midst of a job search and other challenges is more difficult for some of us than for others; and more difficult during particular times than others.
On Sunday 11 November 2002 -- during a cold and dreary period of my life -- I spent the day sightseeing around Los Angeles. I was in the middle of a two-week training assignment in Rancho Cucamonga. In the morning I went to Mission San Juan Capistrano. You may have heard of this place because it's where the swallows come around March 19 each year.
Mission San Juan Capistrano is named for St. John of Capistrano, Italy, who was a theologian in the 14th century. It was established 234 years ago, on 1 November 1776. It was the seventh mission founded by Father Junipero Serra. The Mission has the distinction of being home to the oldest building in California still in use -- a chapel built in 1782, and now known as "Serra's Chapel."
The peace of God was in that beautiful place. I took my Bible and did my daily reading for the Bible study class I was taking at church. The story I read was in 1 Kings 17; the story of the widow in Zarephath, who was down to her very last meal. The scene took place near the end of a three-year drought in Israel and Judah. God sent Elijah to her town, and in a separate message, God commanded her to supply Elijah with food, which she obediently did. Why would someone give away his or her very last meal? Here's the story:
The Widow at Zarephath (1 Kings 17:7-16)
Some time later the brook dried up because there had been no rain in the land. Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah: "Go at once to Zarephath of Sidon and stay there. I have commanded a widow in that place to supply you with food." So he went to Zarephath. When he came to the town gate, a widow was there gathering sticks. He called to her and asked, "Would you bring me a little water in a jar so I may have a drink?" As she was going to get it, he called, "And bring me, please, a piece of bread."
"As surely as the LORD your God lives," she replied, "I don't have any bread -- only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and make a meal for myself and my son, that we may eat it -- and die."
Elijah said to her, "Don't be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small cake of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son. For this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the LORD gives rain on the land.'"
She went away and did as Elijah had told her. So there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her family. For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the LORD spoken by Elijah.
# # #
What struck me about this story was the powerful faith of the widow. She gave Elijah some food before she fed her son and herself. Even when it seemed she had nothing left to give, she gave. Her faith was rewarded. It was just the message I needed to hear that day, because it was during a time in my life where my tank was empty. I wrote in the margin of my Bible: "11 Nov 02 -- God provides to those who are faithful. Amen!"
I know some of you feel that you are down to your very last meal. I'm amazed at how some of you have hung in there in the face of many, many disappointments. My message to you is this: be strong in the Lord, have faith in God, lay your cares at Jesus' feet; and you will experience God's peace, presence, power and protection.
Have faith that your jar of flour will not be used up and your jug of oil will not run dry until the day the LORD gives rain on your land.
See you on Friday 3 December at JobSeekers, where we live in the abundance of God's grace!
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2. Success Story: JobSeekers Was "The Wind Beneath My Wings"
We love to hear from you when you land a new position. Please write and let us know how you found your job, what you learned from the experience, and how JobSeekers helped you.
Pat was at JS last week to say 'good luck and farewell.' Here's her letter. Congratulations Pat!
- - - - -
Hi Dave,
For the past four months, I have introduced myself at JobSeekers each week as an administrative professional. This week, I can say I am (withheld for privacy). I received and accepted the job offer on Monday and I start next week.
This opportunity came about as a result of networking -- my son's networking on my behalf. He made the initial contact to put me in touch with the right person, but I was able to close the deal due to the skills and techniques that you teach us each Friday at JobSeekers. If I had not attended Linda's résumé booster class and revised my résumé, I don't think I would have been called for the first interview. Had I not prepared stories and practiced my responses for behavioral interview questions [from "Acing the Behavioral Interview" at JS on 10/29], I would not have been called back for the second interview.
In this season of Thanksgiving, I am extremely grateful for all your help and that of all the Ship's Crew. The JobSeekers ministry was truly the "wind beneath my wings," giving me knowledge, encouragement, support and fellowship to help rebuild my confidence.
Thank you!
May God bless you,
Pat
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3. This Week's Meeting: No Meeting this Week; Happy Thanksgiving
But network while you are out and about with family and friends!
Who: All are welcome; the topics are targeted for professionals, managers and executives.
What: JobSeekers is a nondenominational career ministry.
When: Friday mornings from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Where: First Baptist Church in Peachtree City; 208 Willow Bend Road.
Why: We work with you to find a job, and we walk with you on your journey of faith.
Attire: Business casual.
Agenda: 7:30 coffee / 7:45 welcome and devotional / 8:10 introductions and announcements / 8:45 job search training module / 10:00 adjourn to the Atlanta Bread Company
We look forward to seeing you on Friday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Networking
Atlanta Bread Company
After the JobSeekers meeting, we go to the ABC from 10:15 to 11:30 for an informal gathering. There's no agenda; we just have fellowship and help each other out.
Newnan First UMC Job Networking Ministry
Come join us at our next meeting on Tuesday 14 December 6:00 PM.
Meetings are always held the second Tuesday of each month in the Parish Hall of Newnan First United Methodist Church. The church is located at 33 Greenville Street in Newnan. You may reach them by telephone at 770-253-7400 or go to "newnanfumc.org" and select "Job Network" under "Resources" on the left side of the home page. We look forward to seeing you there.
College Park Job Seekers
Have a family member, friend or neighbor concerned that they may lose their job, and they cannot take time off to attend a job seekers group? Attend the College Park Job Seekers Group which meets the first Saturday in every month from 9:00 am – 11:30 am. The next meeting is Saturday 4 December. This is a community service of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5885 Mallory Road, College Park, Georgia 770-306-9922.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
For JobSeekers
Leads are updated each week, or when I get a chance! Please forgive me if they are a little out of date. Go to "jobseekers-ptc.org" and navigate to the job leads page.
Friday, November 12, 2010
from JobSeekers of Peachtree City (Dave O'Farrell)
Thanks to Jobseekers of Peachtree City and Dave O'Farrell for the newsletter quoted below:
1. Inspiration: This is Job Hunting Season
Every year I find out that some of you are less active -- or not active at all -- in your job search between Thanksgiving and New Year's. If I get a chance to hear from you, it goes something like this, "Dave, I've been looking for a while and I'm kind of burned out on job search, so I need a break; besides, no one's hiring around the holidays anyway."
Have you had thoughts and feelings similar to this?
No one is hiring around the holidays? In the battlefield of the mind, the devil wants to you to think this way. Friends, NOTHING COULD BE FURTHER FROM THE TRUTH! On the contrary, some executive recruiters have a higher quota in December than in any other month.
If a company's fiscal year is the same as the calendar year, budgets are formulated and approved in September and October. Imagine a plant manager finally getting approval for a much-needed new position for a plant engineer funded for FY2011. Candidates are screened, interviewed and offered jobs in November and December. They start their new jobs on the first business day of January.
Satan would love it if you put your search on hold for eight weeks!
Is your competition interviewing for jobs that you're qualified for while you're out spending money you don't have? Will they be starting a new job on Monday 3 January 2011 (60 days from now) because you were out shopping, or doing projects around the house, or unwinding because of all the stress of your job search?
Companies are hiring right now. Every year several JobSeekers start new jobs in January because they didn't sit on the sidelines in November and December. Get in the game now. Today is a workday. You have a full-time job right now -- with deferred compensation!
Seven years ago, for instance, Dave T. went home to Kansas for Thanksgiving. He came back with a job offer. Andy Whitlock, leader of the job ministry in Newnan, interviewed for a job the week before Christmas and again on New Year's Eve; he got the offer within a week. He said, "And I thought the holidays were going to be quiet."
Six years ago H.G. went to a company Christmas party; he seized the opportunity to do some job networking and made a great impression on a gentleman who called a couple of weeks later to see if he was still looking. He was, and the gentleman offered him a job....
Three years ago, between 11/15/2007 and 1/17/2008 (64 days) I received 26 "I got a job" emails, plus some others verbally – one every other day. In fact, eight of the emails arrived between January 3rd and 7th. Wes H. received three offers in one week. Mike F. received a job offer while we were at the Atlanta Bread Company; he'd been unemployed less than five weeks. Aaron R. interviewed for a job on December 26th; yes, the day after Christmas! He started on January 14th. Don't sit on the sidelines this season.
Two years ago, we had about 20 people get jobs in October. Phil K.landed a job on November 3rd. This was followed closely by John T, Adrian N, Don M, Cynthia S, Gordon B, Pete W, Kelly S, Donald A and Matt D.
Matt wrote, "staying in the hunt during the holiday season does pay off. I found this job through an evening newsletter that I get through The FENG (Financial Executive's Networking Group). I happened to see the posting in the job leads section that appeared on the last newsletter that I would get for 2008. I applied to the position on Christmas Eve, had a phone interview on the 26th and an in-person interview on New Year's Eve. Before I had left the office on the 31st, I was offered the position and, of course, gladly accepted. I started here on January 5th."
Last year, 17 people...accepted jobs in this timeframe.
This year we had about 37 people get jobs in October. Good month. Praise the Lord.
One key concern I have is that you think you have good tools to fight this battle. No you don't. I've seen your résumés. You're good at what you do but you've got a lousy résumé. You're going onto the battlefield with a butter knife. You think you have a B-1 bomber; you don't even have a bazooka – or even a bayonet. If you'd like me to rate your résumé as a butter knife, bayonet, bazooka, or B-1 bomber, just email your résumé to me and I'll offer my professional opinion.
And one more piece of good news: as the number of open positions increases during the holiday season, the number of job seekers who are actively looking decreases – because of the false assumption mentioned in the first paragraph above.
Yes, you can get a job if you use the strategy, tools and skills we teach – and top it off with a positive attitude. Is it tougher out there? Yes, but with God's help you can do it. All you need is ONE job. Don't sit on the sidelines this season.
Here are three things I challenge you to do as the holidays approach:
1. Work on your search 24/7.
Work hard. Work smart. Always be on the lookout for networking opportunities. Don't make a mistake that will cost you a month's pay. What would God want you to do this month? Sit on the sidelines or look for a job? Look again at Proverbs 3:5-6 from The Message: "Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track." Notice the phrase, "in everything you do." It implies action, not passivity.
2. Be joyful always, even when money it tight.
Don't spend beyond your means. Set a good example for your kids and others. What better time to show that your happiness is not rooted in what you have or in what great (expensive) presents you can give? Your happiness comes from the spirit of the living God. I think of Paul's words in Philippians 4:10-12: "I rejoice greatly in the Lord ... I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
3. Bring joy to others, especially those who are not connected to you.
God desires a sacrifice of our time, talents and treasure. When money is tight, you can still give of your time and talents. We are God's hands and feet, so put them to work. Back to Paul's words; this time in Philippians 2:3-4: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."
I close with this blessing from Paul: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." -- Romans 15:13
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
from a jobseeker:
I know that the job market has been tough and I have not been attending here in Peachtree City for some time now, however, I have been networking with contacts and professionals in the Atlanta area and from here to the New York area.
I have utilized Linkedin to network and I have attended job networking events in Alpharetta (C3G Healthcare Group), Roswell (Roswell United Methodist Church), Newnan (First United Methodist Church), Peachtree Road UMC in Buckhead, among a few others. The support has been wonderful.
I have traveled to the New York area five times to interview and network with a number of strong contacts. The resources weren't there for a few to hire me and those looking to hire had a number of applicants and the salary level was not good for me to relocate. This seemed to make sense to consider New York since I worked there for 14 years. Since we have a home here in Peachtree City, working here was great for me and my family.
My avenue for landing the position was/is the Georgia Works program with the Georgia Department of Labor. Jeff Weronick who you know, works in the Dunwoody agency/office for MassMutual and offered me an unpaid internship so this was the start there.
Their established financial advisor(s) were looking for an assistant. I started this past Monday – October 25th – after working with Jeff for four weeks. So, I support two advisors in a full-time position.
Thanks for your help and support.
George B.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Who: All are welcome; the topics are targeted for professionals, managers and executives.
What: JobSeekers is a nondenominational career ministry.
When: Friday mornings from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Where: First Baptist Church in Peachtree City; 208 Willow Bend Road.
Why: We work with you to find a job, and we walk with you on your journey of faith.
Attire: Business casual.
Agenda: 7:30 coffee / 7:45 welcome and devotional / 8:10 introductions and announcements / 8:45 job search training module / 10:00 adjourn to the Atlanta Bread Company
We look forward to seeing you on Friday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Networking
Atlanta Bread Company
After the JobSeekers meeting, we go to the ABC from 10:15 to 11:30 for an informal gathering. There's no agenda; we just have fellowship and help each other out.
College Park Job Seekers
Have a family member, friend or neighbor concerned that they may lose their job, and they cannot take time off to attend a job seekers group? Attend the College Park Job Seekers Group which meets the first Saturday in every month from 9:00 am – 11:30 am. This is a community service of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5885 Mallory Road, College Park, Georgia 770-306-9922.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
5This service is FREE!
1. The position is salaried; or it is a higher-level hourly position
2. The job is located on this side of Atlanta, especially in Fayette or Coweta County
3. The compensation is not 100% commission-based; this includes MLM's
If your job lead meets these criteria, please submit it before noon on Wednesday.
For JobSeekers
Leads are updated each week, or when I get a chance! Please forgive me if they are a little out of date. Go to www.jobseekers-ptc.org and navigate to the job leads pages.
For more leads go to: JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn; go to the 'jobs' tab.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Inspiration: This is Job Hunting Season
Every year I find out that some of you are less active -- or not active at all -- in your job search between Thanksgiving and New Year's. If I get a chance to hear from you, it goes something like this, "Dave, I've been looking for a while and I'm kind of burned out on job search, so I need a break; besides, no one's hiring around the holidays anyway."
Have you had thoughts and feelings similar to this?
No one is hiring around the holidays? In the battlefield of the mind, the devil wants to you to think this way. Friends, NOTHING COULD BE FURTHER FROM THE TRUTH! On the contrary, some executive recruiters have a higher quota in December than in any other month.
If a company's fiscal year is the same as the calendar year, budgets are formulated and approved in September and October. Imagine a plant manager finally getting approval for a much-needed new position for a plant engineer funded for FY2011. Candidates are screened, interviewed and offered jobs in November and December. They start their new jobs on the first business day of January.
Satan would love it if you put your search on hold for eight weeks!
Is your competition interviewing for jobs that you're qualified for while you're out spending money you don't have? Will they be starting a new job on Monday 3 January 2011 (60 days from now) because you were out shopping, or doing projects around the house, or unwinding because of all the stress of your job search?
Companies are hiring right now. Every year several JobSeekers start new jobs in January because they didn't sit on the sidelines in November and December. Get in the game now. Today is a workday. You have a full-time job right now -- with deferred compensation!
Seven years ago, for instance, Dave T. went home to Kansas for Thanksgiving. He came back with a job offer. Andy Whitlock, leader of the job ministry in Newnan, interviewed for a job the week before Christmas and again on New Year's Eve; he got the offer within a week. He said, "And I thought the holidays were going to be quiet."
Six years ago H.G. went to a company Christmas party; he seized the opportunity to do some job networking and made a great impression on a gentleman who called a couple of weeks later to see if he was still looking. He was, and the gentleman offered him a job....
Three years ago, between 11/15/2007 and 1/17/2008 (64 days) I received 26 "I got a job" emails, plus some others verbally – one every other day. In fact, eight of the emails arrived between January 3rd and 7th. Wes H. received three offers in one week. Mike F. received a job offer while we were at the Atlanta Bread Company; he'd been unemployed less than five weeks. Aaron R. interviewed for a job on December 26th; yes, the day after Christmas! He started on January 14th. Don't sit on the sidelines this season.
Two years ago, we had about 20 people get jobs in October. Phil K.landed a job on November 3rd. This was followed closely by John T, Adrian N, Don M, Cynthia S, Gordon B, Pete W, Kelly S, Donald A and Matt D.
Matt wrote, "staying in the hunt during the holiday season does pay off. I found this job through an evening newsletter that I get through The FENG (Financial Executive's Networking Group). I happened to see the posting in the job leads section that appeared on the last newsletter that I would get for 2008. I applied to the position on Christmas Eve, had a phone interview on the 26th and an in-person interview on New Year's Eve. Before I had left the office on the 31st, I was offered the position and, of course, gladly accepted. I started here on January 5th."
Last year, 17 people...accepted jobs in this timeframe.
This year we had about 37 people get jobs in October. Good month. Praise the Lord.
One key concern I have is that you think you have good tools to fight this battle. No you don't. I've seen your résumés. You're good at what you do but you've got a lousy résumé. You're going onto the battlefield with a butter knife. You think you have a B-1 bomber; you don't even have a bazooka – or even a bayonet. If you'd like me to rate your résumé as a butter knife, bayonet, bazooka, or B-1 bomber, just email your résumé to me and I'll offer my professional opinion.
And one more piece of good news: as the number of open positions increases during the holiday season, the number of job seekers who are actively looking decreases – because of the false assumption mentioned in the first paragraph above.
Yes, you can get a job if you use the strategy, tools and skills we teach – and top it off with a positive attitude. Is it tougher out there? Yes, but with God's help you can do it. All you need is ONE job. Don't sit on the sidelines this season.
Here are three things I challenge you to do as the holidays approach:
1. Work on your search 24/7.
Work hard. Work smart. Always be on the lookout for networking opportunities. Don't make a mistake that will cost you a month's pay. What would God want you to do this month? Sit on the sidelines or look for a job? Look again at Proverbs 3:5-6 from The Message: "Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track." Notice the phrase, "in everything you do." It implies action, not passivity.
2. Be joyful always, even when money it tight.
Don't spend beyond your means. Set a good example for your kids and others. What better time to show that your happiness is not rooted in what you have or in what great (expensive) presents you can give? Your happiness comes from the spirit of the living God. I think of Paul's words in Philippians 4:10-12: "I rejoice greatly in the Lord ... I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
3. Bring joy to others, especially those who are not connected to you.
God desires a sacrifice of our time, talents and treasure. When money is tight, you can still give of your time and talents. We are God's hands and feet, so put them to work. Back to Paul's words; this time in Philippians 2:3-4: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."
I close with this blessing from Paul: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." -- Romans 15:13
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
from a jobseeker:
I know that the job market has been tough and I have not been attending here in Peachtree City for some time now, however, I have been networking with contacts and professionals in the Atlanta area and from here to the New York area.
I have utilized Linkedin to network and I have attended job networking events in Alpharetta (C3G Healthcare Group), Roswell (Roswell United Methodist Church), Newnan (First United Methodist Church), Peachtree Road UMC in Buckhead, among a few others. The support has been wonderful.
I have traveled to the New York area five times to interview and network with a number of strong contacts. The resources weren't there for a few to hire me and those looking to hire had a number of applicants and the salary level was not good for me to relocate. This seemed to make sense to consider New York since I worked there for 14 years. Since we have a home here in Peachtree City, working here was great for me and my family.
My avenue for landing the position was/is the Georgia Works program with the Georgia Department of Labor. Jeff Weronick who you know, works in the Dunwoody agency/office for MassMutual and offered me an unpaid internship so this was the start there.
Their established financial advisor(s) were looking for an assistant. I started this past Monday – October 25th – after working with Jeff for four weeks. So, I support two advisors in a full-time position.
Thanks for your help and support.
George B.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Who: All are welcome; the topics are targeted for professionals, managers and executives.
What: JobSeekers is a nondenominational career ministry.
When: Friday mornings from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Where: First Baptist Church in Peachtree City; 208 Willow Bend Road.
Why: We work with you to find a job, and we walk with you on your journey of faith.
Attire: Business casual.
Agenda: 7:30 coffee / 7:45 welcome and devotional / 8:10 introductions and announcements / 8:45 job search training module / 10:00 adjourn to the Atlanta Bread Company
We look forward to seeing you on Friday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Networking
Atlanta Bread Company
After the JobSeekers meeting, we go to the ABC from 10:15 to 11:30 for an informal gathering. There's no agenda; we just have fellowship and help each other out.
College Park Job Seekers
Have a family member, friend or neighbor concerned that they may lose their job, and they cannot take time off to attend a job seekers group? Attend the College Park Job Seekers Group which meets the first Saturday in every month from 9:00 am – 11:30 am. This is a community service of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5885 Mallory Road, College Park, Georgia 770-306-9922.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
5This service is FREE!
1. The position is salaried; or it is a higher-level hourly position
2. The job is located on this side of Atlanta, especially in Fayette or Coweta County
3. The compensation is not 100% commission-based; this includes MLM's
If your job lead meets these criteria, please submit it before noon on Wednesday.
For JobSeekers
Leads are updated each week, or when I get a chance! Please forgive me if they are a little out of date. Go to www.jobseekers-ptc.org and navigate to the job leads pages.
For more leads go to: JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn; go to the 'jobs' tab.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Friday, October 29, 2010
JobSeekers of Peachtree City
Thanks to Dave O'Farrell, of JobSeekers of Peachtree City, for allowing us to re-post his weekly e-newsletter.
Helping People Find Good Jobs, Close to Home, in Minimum Time
Get out and about. Come to JobSeekers this week. Bring a friend.
If you're not looking, forward this message to someone who needs it.
In This Issue
1. Inspiration: The #2 Thing Every Job Seeker Must Have
2. Success Story: 32 Members Land Jobs in October
3. This Week's Meeting: Acing the Behavioral Interview
4. Networking: ABC from 10:15 to 11:30
5. Job Leads: Leads and Links in South Metro Atlanta
6. Contact: Chaplain and Ship's Crew
7. Donate: You Could Help Save a Career, a Home or Even a Marriage
JobSeekers of PTC Website | JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
JobSeekers of PTC was featured on 11Alive, the NBC affiliate here in Atlanta, four weeks ago. Thanks to Chris Sweigert for putting this story together. Click here to view the article and video, and then go get your one job!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Inspiration: The #2 Thing Every Job Seeker Must Have
Many of you have heard me talk and have seen articles I've written about the #1 thing every JobSeeker must have. Your chances of finding a job without having the #1 thing are pretty slim -- as in "slim and none." After working with thousands of people over the past 16 years I've concluded your chances aren't a whole lot better unless you have the #2 thing too. The #1 thing every JobSeeker must have is a positive attitude; the #2 thing every JobSeeker must have is great follow-up and follow through.
For example, I'll call or email a troubled JobSeeker (or O'Farrell client) to see how his or her search was going. When I don't hear back, I call and leave a message that goes something like this: "Jim, this is Dave O'Farrell. I have some good news for you; give me a call." When Jim calls to hear the good news, I say, "Jim, the good news is that I know what's standing between you and a new job: YOU DON'T FOLLOW U-U-U-P-P-P-P-P!!!"
Here are some other examples of things I see from time to time:
1. I hear through the grapevine that someone has missed an interview.
2. One of my clients misses an appointment.
3. Someone has a hot lead for someone else at JobSeekers; the other person fails to follow through. In one specific instance that I know of, the fellow had been looking for a job for over a year.
Follow-up and follow through are vitally important not just for success in search, but in most areas of our lives. JobSeekers' board member and management consultant J.B. Kirk says that poor follow-up and follow through behaviors are epidemic in the management ranks throughout corporate America. The implications for the job seeker are obvious: demonstrate good behavior in this area, and you will certainly stand out.
My first indicator of good follow up behavior (and therefore, job search success) with a new member of JobSeekers is when he or she responds to the welcome message I send to each new person. I ask them to respond to three questions. I also ask them to email a resume. People who honor these two requests honor themselves. Their response not only helps us to help them; it also indicates the behavior that will lead to success in search, on the new job, and in many other areas of life.
Another key indicator happens on Fridays. I'll have some advice, information or a referral (AIR) that can help someone and I'll ask him or her to send me an email with a reminder of what I promised. Guess how many people follow through? About one in five. Amazing.
Some indicators of good follow through behavior (and therefore, job search success) with one of my clients is whether or not he or she completes the exercises that I assign before, during and after the workshop. I assign a lot more work than can be accomplished on the first day of the workshop, so I give clients four days (Friday through Monday) in between the first and second day to follow through on their assignments. Many times clients come in with a list of excuses of why they couldn't devote any time to completing their assignments over the weekend. I wonder, was that an aberration, or was that a fairly typical four days of job search at your house?
A few years ago a client wrote to tell me about her new job. Julie wrote: "I had four companies interested in me all at once: a couple of contract positions near closure and one permanent position here in Atlanta that I was just waiting on the offer. Then another offer came in. It started when I received a call from the CFO. We interviewed over the phone, and then I went in for an interview (five people in five hours!). Within 48 hours I sent all five people a thank you note that was unique to the interview we had. Within two weeks they had finalized the offer. The use of the materials we developed in your workshop were critical, Dave. When the CEO called to offer me the job, he said that I did an excellent job of follow-up."
Hiring managers are busy; sometimes the job goes to the one who has the best follow-up -- someone who is persistent without being a pest -- someone who is finding a way to make it happen instead of finding a reason why it didn't.
The bottom line is: to improve your job search results, improve your follow-up and follow through behaviors. The solution is simple. Make a decision to follow-up and follow through. Manage your time. Set priorities and stick to them. Here are three relevant verses:
1. Proverbs 13:18 -- He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored.
2. Proverbs 24:32-33 -- A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest -- and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man.
3. Titus 1:8 -- Rather he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined.
You've got to be disciplined. You've got to follow up on every networking or job lead just like a criminal investigator does. You never know which clue may be the one that cracks the case.
If you have an anecdote about follow-up and follow though from your job search (either a good or bad), please send it to me. I'd love to hear it. Thanks.
See you tomorrow at JobSeekers, the place where we learn self-discipline.
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2. Success Story: 32 Members Land Jobs in October
We love to hear from you when you land a new position. Please write and let us know how you found your job, what you learned from the experience, and how JobSeekers helped you.
Praise the Lord, we are averaging one person per day landing a job in the month of October. The total includes 16 O'Farrell clients, four former clients and 12 other members of JobSeekers. I was asked if it centered around certain functions or industries – or if the economy was picking up, or what. I can't see a pattern in function or industry. The job statistics have not shown any improvement.
The common denominator is faith in action. These people know how to find a job, they have great tools, they have learned good networking and interviewing skills, and they have remained faithful even when they were discouraged. Here's a letter that sums it up pretty well; congratulations (name withheld)!
- - - - -
Hey Dave!
I got a job!!! All praises go to God. On Monday, October 18th, I will be starting at the ___through the "Mahone Group" staffing agency.
I learned about JobSeekers through a notice on the board at the Clayton County Resource Center in Morrow.... Attending JobSeekers truly helped me to be motivated and even more encouraged. I looked forward to going to JobSeekers; being at JobSeekers, I enjoyed the fellowshipping, weekly topics, and especially learning about the use of LinkedIn. A friend had told to put my profile out on LinkedIn, however, going to JobSeekers is where learned the true value of LinkedIn. I became more proactive, I learned to set goals; and how to truly network with former employers, co-workers and friends.
...Several recruiters located me on LinkedIn and contacted me about an interview or presenting my résumé for opportunities in state and a few out of state. Looking for a job was a job by itself. I changed my résumé over 100 times. One day I answered an Internet ad on Indeed.com from The Mahone Group; this stored my résumé in their directory. At least once a week, I received an email about a job opportunity with them; all I had to do was answer the requested questions, which led to this position. I prayerfully believe that working with The Mahone Group will lead to a permanent and long term career with some corporation.
I thank God for patience, faith, knowledge and understanding because many times I felt discouraged; those were the times when I drew my strength from Jesus. I was reminded he would never leave me nor forsake and he would supply all my needs. I have always been faithful in tithing; and the belief that all my needs will be met if I did not waiver. I can honestly say that all bills were paid as if I worked and nothing was ever disconnected for non-payment. Thank you Lord.
Thanks to all of you at JobSeekers: Dave, Linda, all the Ship's Crew and volunteers. Keep up the good work. I pray our economy begins to turn for the better in all things.
Thank you JobSeekers!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3. This Week's Meeting: Acing the Behavioral Interview
This week's topic focuses on one of the most common types of interviews. If you don't understand the employer's strategy, you may not do well in the interview, even if you are a well-qualified candidate. Come tomorrow for this important topic -- and for a great learning experience.
Who: All are welcome; the topics are targeted for professionals, managers and executives.
What: JobSeekers is a nondenominational career ministry.
When: Friday mornings from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Where: First Baptist Church in Peachtree City; 208 Willow Bend Road.
Why: We work with you to find a job, and we walk with you on your journey of faith.
Attire: Business casual.
Agenda: 7:30 coffee / 7:45 welcome and devotional / 8:10 introductions and announcements / 8:45 job search training module / 10:00 adjourn to the Atlanta Bread Company
We look forward to seeing you on Friday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Networking
Atlanta Bread Company
After the JobSeekers meeting, we go to the ABC from 10:15 to 11:30 for an informal gathering. There's no agenda; we just have fellowship and help each other out.
Newnan First UMC Job Networking Ministry
Come join us at our next meeting on Tuesday 9 November 6:00 PM.
Meetings are always held the second Tuesday of each month in the Parish Hall of Newnan First United Methodist Church. The church is located at 33 Greenville Street in Newnan. You may reach them by telephone at 770-253-7400 or click here and select "Job Network" under "Resources" on the left side of the home page. We look forward to seeing you there.
College Park Job Seekers
Have a family member, friend or neighbor concerned that they may lose their job, and they cannot take time off to attend a job seekers group? Attend the College Park Job Seekers Group which meets the first Saturday in every month from 9:00 am – 11:30 am. The next meeting is Saturday 6 November. This is a community service of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5885 Mallory Road, College Park, Georgia 770-306-9922.
For JobSeekers
Leads are updated each week, or when I get a chance! Please forgive me if they are a little out of date. Click on this link (or copy-and-paste the following one into your browser) to view this week's jobs:
http://jobseekers-ptc.org/js/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=49&Itemid=71
For more leads go to: JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn; go to the 'jobs' tab.
Helping People Find Good Jobs, Close to Home, in Minimum Time
Get out and about. Come to JobSeekers this week. Bring a friend.
If you're not looking, forward this message to someone who needs it.
In This Issue
1. Inspiration: The #2 Thing Every Job Seeker Must Have
2. Success Story: 32 Members Land Jobs in October
3. This Week's Meeting: Acing the Behavioral Interview
4. Networking: ABC from 10:15 to 11:30
5. Job Leads: Leads and Links in South Metro Atlanta
6. Contact: Chaplain and Ship's Crew
7. Donate: You Could Help Save a Career, a Home or Even a Marriage
JobSeekers of PTC Website | JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
JobSeekers of PTC was featured on 11Alive, the NBC affiliate here in Atlanta, four weeks ago. Thanks to Chris Sweigert for putting this story together. Click here to view the article and video, and then go get your one job!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Inspiration: The #2 Thing Every Job Seeker Must Have
Many of you have heard me talk and have seen articles I've written about the #1 thing every JobSeeker must have. Your chances of finding a job without having the #1 thing are pretty slim -- as in "slim and none." After working with thousands of people over the past 16 years I've concluded your chances aren't a whole lot better unless you have the #2 thing too. The #1 thing every JobSeeker must have is a positive attitude; the #2 thing every JobSeeker must have is great follow-up and follow through.
For example, I'll call or email a troubled JobSeeker (or O'Farrell client) to see how his or her search was going. When I don't hear back, I call and leave a message that goes something like this: "Jim, this is Dave O'Farrell. I have some good news for you; give me a call." When Jim calls to hear the good news, I say, "Jim, the good news is that I know what's standing between you and a new job: YOU DON'T FOLLOW U-U-U-P-P-P-P-P!!!"
Here are some other examples of things I see from time to time:
1. I hear through the grapevine that someone has missed an interview.
2. One of my clients misses an appointment.
3. Someone has a hot lead for someone else at JobSeekers; the other person fails to follow through. In one specific instance that I know of, the fellow had been looking for a job for over a year.
Follow-up and follow through are vitally important not just for success in search, but in most areas of our lives. JobSeekers' board member and management consultant J.B. Kirk says that poor follow-up and follow through behaviors are epidemic in the management ranks throughout corporate America. The implications for the job seeker are obvious: demonstrate good behavior in this area, and you will certainly stand out.
My first indicator of good follow up behavior (and therefore, job search success) with a new member of JobSeekers is when he or she responds to the welcome message I send to each new person. I ask them to respond to three questions. I also ask them to email a resume. People who honor these two requests honor themselves. Their response not only helps us to help them; it also indicates the behavior that will lead to success in search, on the new job, and in many other areas of life.
Another key indicator happens on Fridays. I'll have some advice, information or a referral (AIR) that can help someone and I'll ask him or her to send me an email with a reminder of what I promised. Guess how many people follow through? About one in five. Amazing.
Some indicators of good follow through behavior (and therefore, job search success) with one of my clients is whether or not he or she completes the exercises that I assign before, during and after the workshop. I assign a lot more work than can be accomplished on the first day of the workshop, so I give clients four days (Friday through Monday) in between the first and second day to follow through on their assignments. Many times clients come in with a list of excuses of why they couldn't devote any time to completing their assignments over the weekend. I wonder, was that an aberration, or was that a fairly typical four days of job search at your house?
A few years ago a client wrote to tell me about her new job. Julie wrote: "I had four companies interested in me all at once: a couple of contract positions near closure and one permanent position here in Atlanta that I was just waiting on the offer. Then another offer came in. It started when I received a call from the CFO. We interviewed over the phone, and then I went in for an interview (five people in five hours!). Within 48 hours I sent all five people a thank you note that was unique to the interview we had. Within two weeks they had finalized the offer. The use of the materials we developed in your workshop were critical, Dave. When the CEO called to offer me the job, he said that I did an excellent job of follow-up."
Hiring managers are busy; sometimes the job goes to the one who has the best follow-up -- someone who is persistent without being a pest -- someone who is finding a way to make it happen instead of finding a reason why it didn't.
The bottom line is: to improve your job search results, improve your follow-up and follow through behaviors. The solution is simple. Make a decision to follow-up and follow through. Manage your time. Set priorities and stick to them. Here are three relevant verses:
1. Proverbs 13:18 -- He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored.
2. Proverbs 24:32-33 -- A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest -- and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man.
3. Titus 1:8 -- Rather he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined.
You've got to be disciplined. You've got to follow up on every networking or job lead just like a criminal investigator does. You never know which clue may be the one that cracks the case.
If you have an anecdote about follow-up and follow though from your job search (either a good or bad), please send it to me. I'd love to hear it. Thanks.
See you tomorrow at JobSeekers, the place where we learn self-discipline.
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2. Success Story: 32 Members Land Jobs in October
We love to hear from you when you land a new position. Please write and let us know how you found your job, what you learned from the experience, and how JobSeekers helped you.
Praise the Lord, we are averaging one person per day landing a job in the month of October. The total includes 16 O'Farrell clients, four former clients and 12 other members of JobSeekers. I was asked if it centered around certain functions or industries – or if the economy was picking up, or what. I can't see a pattern in function or industry. The job statistics have not shown any improvement.
The common denominator is faith in action. These people know how to find a job, they have great tools, they have learned good networking and interviewing skills, and they have remained faithful even when they were discouraged. Here's a letter that sums it up pretty well; congratulations (name withheld)!
- - - - -
Hey Dave!
I got a job!!! All praises go to God. On Monday, October 18th, I will be starting at the ___through the "Mahone Group" staffing agency.
I learned about JobSeekers through a notice on the board at the Clayton County Resource Center in Morrow.... Attending JobSeekers truly helped me to be motivated and even more encouraged. I looked forward to going to JobSeekers; being at JobSeekers, I enjoyed the fellowshipping, weekly topics, and especially learning about the use of LinkedIn. A friend had told to put my profile out on LinkedIn, however, going to JobSeekers is where learned the true value of LinkedIn. I became more proactive, I learned to set goals; and how to truly network with former employers, co-workers and friends.
...Several recruiters located me on LinkedIn and contacted me about an interview or presenting my résumé for opportunities in state and a few out of state. Looking for a job was a job by itself. I changed my résumé over 100 times. One day I answered an Internet ad on Indeed.com from The Mahone Group; this stored my résumé in their directory. At least once a week, I received an email about a job opportunity with them; all I had to do was answer the requested questions, which led to this position. I prayerfully believe that working with The Mahone Group will lead to a permanent and long term career with some corporation.
I thank God for patience, faith, knowledge and understanding because many times I felt discouraged; those were the times when I drew my strength from Jesus. I was reminded he would never leave me nor forsake and he would supply all my needs. I have always been faithful in tithing; and the belief that all my needs will be met if I did not waiver. I can honestly say that all bills were paid as if I worked and nothing was ever disconnected for non-payment. Thank you Lord.
Thanks to all of you at JobSeekers: Dave, Linda, all the Ship's Crew and volunteers. Keep up the good work. I pray our economy begins to turn for the better in all things.
Thank you JobSeekers!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3. This Week's Meeting: Acing the Behavioral Interview
This week's topic focuses on one of the most common types of interviews. If you don't understand the employer's strategy, you may not do well in the interview, even if you are a well-qualified candidate. Come tomorrow for this important topic -- and for a great learning experience.
Who: All are welcome; the topics are targeted for professionals, managers and executives.
What: JobSeekers is a nondenominational career ministry.
When: Friday mornings from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Where: First Baptist Church in Peachtree City; 208 Willow Bend Road.
Why: We work with you to find a job, and we walk with you on your journey of faith.
Attire: Business casual.
Agenda: 7:30 coffee / 7:45 welcome and devotional / 8:10 introductions and announcements / 8:45 job search training module / 10:00 adjourn to the Atlanta Bread Company
We look forward to seeing you on Friday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Networking
Atlanta Bread Company
After the JobSeekers meeting, we go to the ABC from 10:15 to 11:30 for an informal gathering. There's no agenda; we just have fellowship and help each other out.
Newnan First UMC Job Networking Ministry
Come join us at our next meeting on Tuesday 9 November 6:00 PM.
Meetings are always held the second Tuesday of each month in the Parish Hall of Newnan First United Methodist Church. The church is located at 33 Greenville Street in Newnan. You may reach them by telephone at 770-253-7400 or click here and select "Job Network" under "Resources" on the left side of the home page. We look forward to seeing you there.
College Park Job Seekers
Have a family member, friend or neighbor concerned that they may lose their job, and they cannot take time off to attend a job seekers group? Attend the College Park Job Seekers Group which meets the first Saturday in every month from 9:00 am – 11:30 am. The next meeting is Saturday 6 November. This is a community service of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5885 Mallory Road, College Park, Georgia 770-306-9922.
For JobSeekers
Leads are updated each week, or when I get a chance! Please forgive me if they are a little out of date. Click on this link (or copy-and-paste the following one into your browser) to view this week's jobs:
http://jobseekers-ptc.org/js/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=49&Itemid=71
For more leads go to: JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn; go to the 'jobs' tab.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Newsletter from Jobseekers of Peachtree City
Thanks to Dave O'Farrell and the leaders of JobSeekers of Peachtree City for today's newsletter. Read on:
Jobseekers of Peachtree City
Helping People Find Good Jobs, Close to Home, in Minimum Time
Get out and about. Come to JobSeekers this week. Bring a friend.
If you're not looking, forward this message to someone who needs it.
In This Issue
1. Inspiration: God is at Work in Our Careers
2. Success Story: Proactive, Positive and Prayerful – Roach Lands a Job
3. This Week's Meeting: Improving Your P&L (Probing and Listening) Skills
4. Networking: ABC from 10:15 to 11:30
5. Job Leads: Leads and Links in South Metro Atlanta
6. Contact: Chaplain and Ship's Crew
7. Donate: You Could Help Save a Career, a Home or Even a Marriage
JobSeekers of PTC Website | JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
JobSeekers of PTC was featured on 11Alive, the NBC affiliate here in Atlanta, three weeks ago. Thanks to Chris Sweigert for putting this story together. Click here to view the article and video, and then go get your one job!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Inspiration: God is at Work in Our Careers
This week I will share my testimony of how God was orchestrating a wonderful series of events that led to where I am today: running my own business and leading the JobSeekers ministry. Throughout it all, God was at work in my career.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." -- Jeremiah 29:11
Starting my search. Someone quoted this scripture at my first JobSeekers meeting on 11 February 2000. I'd read it before, but when you have a good job, you tend to gloss over a passage like this. When your world gets turned upside down, it takes on a whole new meaning!
Actually, I missed an important word that Ward Hunter, the speaker, said. What I heard was, "For know the plans I have for you …" Notice that I missed the personal pronoun "I." This was key to the lesson I was to learn that year: God knew his plan for me and was at work in my career, even when I couldn't see what he was doing.
I came to JobSeekers of PTC as a participant; two months later I moved into a leadership role. When Ernie Childs announced he had to step down, the other leaders turned their heads in unison and looked at me. For several months I held the dual role of participant and facilitator. Like the guy who runs The Hair Club for Men, "I'm not just the president, I'm also a client." Late that year (November) I won a great contract assignment that allowed me to continue in the leadership role.
A season of disappointments. Leading the group was a great experience, but I suffered many disappointments in my own job search along the way. The first one came a few days after the NASDAQ crashed on 10 March 2000. My former boss was looking to hire me into his new company; I was to be a key player in developing a new division of a dot-com. He called me on 13 March to say they were going to have to delay my written job offer. It never came, and by the end of the year he was forced to leave this once red-hot company.
The rest of the spring and summer brought many other disappointments. One gentleman, the managing director of the Atlanta office of a well-known training and consulting company, said I was the most polished and professional person he had ever interviewed, then he gave the job to someone else! It was one test of faith after another.
JobSeekers gave me the spiritual lift I needed to face another week. No matter how bad I felt, I could count on JobSeekers to pick me up. As the facilitator of the meetings, I admit that I feigned cheerfulness and enthusiasm more than once, but by the time the meeting was over, I never left JobSeekers feeling down.
After that first disappointment six weeks into my search, I spent the rest of the time looking for what I believed was right for me: another job selling training and consulting services to HR or sales executives. What I didn't realize -- and couldn't see -- was that God was working in the background all along. I teach folks to ask God for what they want, but to be willing to take what God gives them; it will be better than what they asked for.
A gentle nudge.
In October (10/12/2000) I called a friend to do some networking. Debbie said they had a position with her company that was just what I was looking for. The only problem was that the person needed to be located in Portland or Seattle. I ditched that right away. After pausing for a few seconds, Debbie said I would be perfect for another position that was open: senior training consultant. I interviewed in Philadelphia on the day Bush and Gore tied. The interview included an "audition" for Linda Richardson, the CEO. It was, at that point, the most frightening experience of my life.
The key to Debbie recommending me for the position was the fact that she had seen me present many times at the local ASTD meetings -- an association of trainers. The lesson here is to get involved in professional associations; but don't just go -- take on a leadership role!
God was at work in my career.
The key to me winning that job was the fact that I'd been leading the JobSeeker meetings for about six months. Each week, I had an audience of about 20 professionals, which happens to be the same size and level of group that Richardson works with. I didn't realize it, but God was giving me a rehearsal each week in preparation for that audition. When the Linda Richardson walked out of the room after my audition, the COO said, "Oh she loved you!" She went on to explain that Linda had interviewed thousands of trainers and only a handful had ever been hired. Upon reflection, I doubt I would have made it if I'd interviewed even six weeks sooner. As I led those JobSeeker meetings in the summer of 2000, God was at work in my career.
My time with Richardson made me a much stronger career coach and outplacement consultant; I wouldn't trade the experience for anything. I've taught consultative selling skills at companies like Dell, Bank of America, Sears, GlaxoSmithKline and KPMG Consulting. I have incorporated what I learned at Richardson into my ministry and my business. As I traveled all over the country in 2001, 2002 and 2003, God was at work in my career.
The contract job was a stepping-stone to something better.
Little did I realize that working for Richardson was merely preparation for running my own business. I led a lot of role-plays at Richardson, and one thing that was sorely lacking at my previous outplacement company was rehearsals for networking and interviewing. The sales and communications skills I taught at Richardson are very easily transferred to job search. Turns out it was ideal training for me and my new business.
As I mentioned, the job allowed me to be in town more Friday's than not. Without any effort on my part, I often found myself flying back to Atlanta on a Thursday night. The contract work also allowed me to do career coaching on an ad hoc basis; nothing dangerous here, the majority of my income was coming from Richardson. But I was developing my own strategy, tools and skills to start my own business.
Five clear signals.
Five things happened in quick succession that proved to me beyond a reasonable doubt that God wanted me to take the plunge into my own full-time business. (1) In the post 9/11 economy Richardson's business changed; their instructor-led training business began to taper off. They had the class to call me and the other consultants to let us know that less work was on the horizon. (2) Dave Rottschafer, who leads the devotional at JobSeekers three or four times a year, asked me if I wanted to look for office space with him. (3) My brother-in-law gave me a bunch of office furniture when his company upgraded. (4) More people approached me and asked if I could help with their job search (or the search of a departing employee). And (5) A friend gave me a book, "If You Want to Walk on Water, You've Got to Get Out of the Boat" by John Ortberg. It's about doing something bold; it's about responding to the call that God places on our hearts. Another friend gave me "Halftime: Moving from Success to Significance" by Bob Buford. With God orchestrating these five things, I had little choice but to do something bold. I rented an office and incorporated my business.
God was -- and is -- at work in my career. By God's grace, it's been a very rewarding few years. The reward comes when someone says I made a difference in their journey of faith, or when they say they found a job that is ideal for them, or simply that they have received hope and encouragement from the JobSeeker ministry. This has happened 20 times in the past 15 days – no joke, no exaggeration – clients (9), former clients (3) and JobSeekers (8) are finding jobs. I told some friends recently that I serve at God's pleasure -- and I hope he wants me to do this for a long time to come!
Here are three key lessons I've learned and want to share with you:
1. Pray. Pray for wisdom and discernment. God will speak to you through others, through assessments, during times of quite reflection, or in the middle of a parade (this really happened to a JobSeeker in July 2004 at the PTC Independence Day parade).
2. Work hard. Work hard at what you believe God wants you to pursue. Ecclesiastes 9:10a says, "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might."
3. Be open when God leads you in a different destination. If you are on the wrong path, he will lead you where he wants you to go -- as long as you seek him with all your heart.
God is at work in your career.
Friends, I can assure you that God is at work in your career. He has a plan and a purpose for your life and career; plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you a future with hope. I know that no matter where you are now, no matter where you think you are going, he can lead you to where he wants you to be. Whatever he has in mind for you is better than what you've asked for.
See you tomorrow at the place where we experience God's abundant grace!
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2. Success Story: Proactive, Positive and Prayerful – Roach Lands a Job
We love to hear from you when you land a new position. Please write and let us know how you found your job, what you learned from the experience, and how JobSeekers helped you.
Last week five of our 48 members came to JobSeekers to say "farewell and good luck." Linda was one of them. For those of you who couldn't be there last week, here is her story. Congratulations, good luck and God bless you Linda!
- - - - -
Hello Dave!
Good news, yes, the torch has passed to me – I received, and accepted, a job offer...Work begins Monday...
I lost my job on July 29th and the very next morning I attended my first JobSeekers meeting, based on a recommendation from two people I knew. It made the difference from spiraling downward to remaining positive. Little did I know that I'd also become friends with some very cool people, and that we'd form a small accountability group; accountable for meeting goals that we set each week. Thank you for encouraging everyone at JobSeekers, Dave, and for all you and the Ship's Crew do to help job seekers. You have an outstanding program, an outstanding crew, and the messages and exercises are always very meaningful. Linda Wells is also to be thanked for her continued presence, and willingness to provide free classes. Everyone needs to attend them!
Above all, God was with me, and I praise and thank him for being able to even share this news. I received a text message from a friend the first few days after the loss of my job. She knew I was feeling down and she confirmed that the King of all Kings had a plan for me and was on my side and that His plan would be revealed when He was ready. I believed it and read it whenever I was tempted to feel "down." I was diligent, daily, in my job search for two solid months, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM. Every Monday through Friday, I got up, showered, dressed for work and went upstairs to the home office. I kept a positive attitude...I was busy networking, researching, responding to some ads, networking some more, and learning more about LinkedIn – an invaluable tool, by the way! I didn't rest much outside of job searching. I started volunteering more at my church and met some awesome people who have been praying for me as well.
God rewarded me for my diligence, my faith in Him, and my servant heart. Yesterday I sat down to have my lunch, and before I asked for the blessing of the food, I said the Lord's Prayer and prayed about my job search and asked God to forgive me for starting to feel some frustration again. I said I knew that He had a plan and only He knew when and where this job would happen to be. I had interviewed with two companies almost two weeks ago and had not heard back from them, even though I had left email and voice messages. I needed to hear something – if I was being considered, or if I should cross them off my list. I prayed that God would send me some message today, if one of these jobs was meant to be. You know the rest. God is good.
My best to you and JobSeekers,
(name withheld)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3. This Week's Meeting: Improving Your P&L (Probing and Listening) Skills
This week's session will make you more effective in your networking and interviewing of course, but it will also make you more effective in all your communications – as a parent, spouse, salesperson, entrepreneur or whatever. Come to JobSeekers tomorrow to become more effective at building rapport, questioning and listening. You'll be glad you did!
Who: All are welcome; the topics are targeted for professionals, managers and executives.
What: JobSeekers is a nondenominational career ministry.
When: Friday mornings from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Where: First Baptist Church in Peachtree City; 208 Willow Bend Road.
Why: We work with you to find a job, and we walk with you on your journey of faith.
Attire: Business casual.
Agenda: 7:30 coffee / 7:45 welcome and devotional / 8:10 introductions and announcements / 8:45 job search training module / 10:00 adjourn to the Atlanta Bread Company
We look forward to seeing you on Friday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Networking
Atlanta Bread Company
After the JobSeekers meeting, we go to the ABC from 10:15 to 11:30 for an informal gathering. There's no agenda; we just have fellowship and help each other out.
Newnan First UMC Job Networking Ministry
Come join us at our next meeting on Tuesday 9 November 6:00 PM.
Meetings are always held the second Tuesday of each month in the Parish Hall of Newnan First United Methodist Church. The church is located at 33 Greenville Street in Newnan. You may reach them by telephone at 770-253-7400 or click here and select "Job Network" under "Resources" on the left side of the home page. We look forward to seeing you there.
College Park Job Seekers
Have a family member, friend or neighbor concerned that they may lose their job, and they cannot take time off to attend a job seekers group? Attend the College Park Job Seekers Group which meets the first Saturday in every month from 9:00 am – 11:30 am. The next meeting is Saturday 6 November. This is a community service of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5885 Mallory Road, College Park, Georgia 770-306-9922.
New Hope Baptist Church
Career Transition Workshop at North Campus Missions Center
Wednesdays, October 13-27 6-8PM
***Must register for class and complete online assessment prior to class***
To register call or email Lesley Deyton at 770-461-4337 x884 / lesleyd@newhopebc.org.
If you are looking for work or considering changing careers, this workshop is for you. Free gift assessment and workbook will help you discover how God has equipped you. Résumé assistance and interview skills are also extensively covered. This workshop is designed to help you find the job(s) that you are gifted for and make the best first impression to land that job! Workshop led by Bruce King.
Jobseekers of Peachtree City
Helping People Find Good Jobs, Close to Home, in Minimum Time
Get out and about. Come to JobSeekers this week. Bring a friend.
If you're not looking, forward this message to someone who needs it.
In This Issue
1. Inspiration: God is at Work in Our Careers
2. Success Story: Proactive, Positive and Prayerful – Roach Lands a Job
3. This Week's Meeting: Improving Your P&L (Probing and Listening) Skills
4. Networking: ABC from 10:15 to 11:30
5. Job Leads: Leads and Links in South Metro Atlanta
6. Contact: Chaplain and Ship's Crew
7. Donate: You Could Help Save a Career, a Home or Even a Marriage
JobSeekers of PTC Website | JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
JobSeekers of PTC was featured on 11Alive, the NBC affiliate here in Atlanta, three weeks ago. Thanks to Chris Sweigert for putting this story together. Click here to view the article and video, and then go get your one job!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Inspiration: God is at Work in Our Careers
This week I will share my testimony of how God was orchestrating a wonderful series of events that led to where I am today: running my own business and leading the JobSeekers ministry. Throughout it all, God was at work in my career.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." -- Jeremiah 29:11
Starting my search. Someone quoted this scripture at my first JobSeekers meeting on 11 February 2000. I'd read it before, but when you have a good job, you tend to gloss over a passage like this. When your world gets turned upside down, it takes on a whole new meaning!
Actually, I missed an important word that Ward Hunter, the speaker, said. What I heard was, "For know the plans I have for you …" Notice that I missed the personal pronoun "I." This was key to the lesson I was to learn that year: God knew his plan for me and was at work in my career, even when I couldn't see what he was doing.
I came to JobSeekers of PTC as a participant; two months later I moved into a leadership role. When Ernie Childs announced he had to step down, the other leaders turned their heads in unison and looked at me. For several months I held the dual role of participant and facilitator. Like the guy who runs The Hair Club for Men, "I'm not just the president, I'm also a client." Late that year (November) I won a great contract assignment that allowed me to continue in the leadership role.
A season of disappointments. Leading the group was a great experience, but I suffered many disappointments in my own job search along the way. The first one came a few days after the NASDAQ crashed on 10 March 2000. My former boss was looking to hire me into his new company; I was to be a key player in developing a new division of a dot-com. He called me on 13 March to say they were going to have to delay my written job offer. It never came, and by the end of the year he was forced to leave this once red-hot company.
The rest of the spring and summer brought many other disappointments. One gentleman, the managing director of the Atlanta office of a well-known training and consulting company, said I was the most polished and professional person he had ever interviewed, then he gave the job to someone else! It was one test of faith after another.
JobSeekers gave me the spiritual lift I needed to face another week. No matter how bad I felt, I could count on JobSeekers to pick me up. As the facilitator of the meetings, I admit that I feigned cheerfulness and enthusiasm more than once, but by the time the meeting was over, I never left JobSeekers feeling down.
After that first disappointment six weeks into my search, I spent the rest of the time looking for what I believed was right for me: another job selling training and consulting services to HR or sales executives. What I didn't realize -- and couldn't see -- was that God was working in the background all along. I teach folks to ask God for what they want, but to be willing to take what God gives them; it will be better than what they asked for.
A gentle nudge.
In October (10/12/2000) I called a friend to do some networking. Debbie said they had a position with her company that was just what I was looking for. The only problem was that the person needed to be located in Portland or Seattle. I ditched that right away. After pausing for a few seconds, Debbie said I would be perfect for another position that was open: senior training consultant. I interviewed in Philadelphia on the day Bush and Gore tied. The interview included an "audition" for Linda Richardson, the CEO. It was, at that point, the most frightening experience of my life.
The key to Debbie recommending me for the position was the fact that she had seen me present many times at the local ASTD meetings -- an association of trainers. The lesson here is to get involved in professional associations; but don't just go -- take on a leadership role!
God was at work in my career.
The key to me winning that job was the fact that I'd been leading the JobSeeker meetings for about six months. Each week, I had an audience of about 20 professionals, which happens to be the same size and level of group that Richardson works with. I didn't realize it, but God was giving me a rehearsal each week in preparation for that audition. When the Linda Richardson walked out of the room after my audition, the COO said, "Oh she loved you!" She went on to explain that Linda had interviewed thousands of trainers and only a handful had ever been hired. Upon reflection, I doubt I would have made it if I'd interviewed even six weeks sooner. As I led those JobSeeker meetings in the summer of 2000, God was at work in my career.
My time with Richardson made me a much stronger career coach and outplacement consultant; I wouldn't trade the experience for anything. I've taught consultative selling skills at companies like Dell, Bank of America, Sears, GlaxoSmithKline and KPMG Consulting. I have incorporated what I learned at Richardson into my ministry and my business. As I traveled all over the country in 2001, 2002 and 2003, God was at work in my career.
The contract job was a stepping-stone to something better.
Little did I realize that working for Richardson was merely preparation for running my own business. I led a lot of role-plays at Richardson, and one thing that was sorely lacking at my previous outplacement company was rehearsals for networking and interviewing. The sales and communications skills I taught at Richardson are very easily transferred to job search. Turns out it was ideal training for me and my new business.
As I mentioned, the job allowed me to be in town more Friday's than not. Without any effort on my part, I often found myself flying back to Atlanta on a Thursday night. The contract work also allowed me to do career coaching on an ad hoc basis; nothing dangerous here, the majority of my income was coming from Richardson. But I was developing my own strategy, tools and skills to start my own business.
Five clear signals.
Five things happened in quick succession that proved to me beyond a reasonable doubt that God wanted me to take the plunge into my own full-time business. (1) In the post 9/11 economy Richardson's business changed; their instructor-led training business began to taper off. They had the class to call me and the other consultants to let us know that less work was on the horizon. (2) Dave Rottschafer, who leads the devotional at JobSeekers three or four times a year, asked me if I wanted to look for office space with him. (3) My brother-in-law gave me a bunch of office furniture when his company upgraded. (4) More people approached me and asked if I could help with their job search (or the search of a departing employee). And (5) A friend gave me a book, "If You Want to Walk on Water, You've Got to Get Out of the Boat" by John Ortberg. It's about doing something bold; it's about responding to the call that God places on our hearts. Another friend gave me "Halftime: Moving from Success to Significance" by Bob Buford. With God orchestrating these five things, I had little choice but to do something bold. I rented an office and incorporated my business.
God was -- and is -- at work in my career. By God's grace, it's been a very rewarding few years. The reward comes when someone says I made a difference in their journey of faith, or when they say they found a job that is ideal for them, or simply that they have received hope and encouragement from the JobSeeker ministry. This has happened 20 times in the past 15 days – no joke, no exaggeration – clients (9), former clients (3) and JobSeekers (8) are finding jobs. I told some friends recently that I serve at God's pleasure -- and I hope he wants me to do this for a long time to come!
Here are three key lessons I've learned and want to share with you:
1. Pray. Pray for wisdom and discernment. God will speak to you through others, through assessments, during times of quite reflection, or in the middle of a parade (this really happened to a JobSeeker in July 2004 at the PTC Independence Day parade).
2. Work hard. Work hard at what you believe God wants you to pursue. Ecclesiastes 9:10a says, "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might."
3. Be open when God leads you in a different destination. If you are on the wrong path, he will lead you where he wants you to go -- as long as you seek him with all your heart.
God is at work in your career.
Friends, I can assure you that God is at work in your career. He has a plan and a purpose for your life and career; plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you a future with hope. I know that no matter where you are now, no matter where you think you are going, he can lead you to where he wants you to be. Whatever he has in mind for you is better than what you've asked for.
See you tomorrow at the place where we experience God's abundant grace!
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2. Success Story: Proactive, Positive and Prayerful – Roach Lands a Job
We love to hear from you when you land a new position. Please write and let us know how you found your job, what you learned from the experience, and how JobSeekers helped you.
Last week five of our 48 members came to JobSeekers to say "farewell and good luck." Linda was one of them. For those of you who couldn't be there last week, here is her story. Congratulations, good luck and God bless you Linda!
- - - - -
Hello Dave!
Good news, yes, the torch has passed to me – I received, and accepted, a job offer...Work begins Monday...
I lost my job on July 29th and the very next morning I attended my first JobSeekers meeting, based on a recommendation from two people I knew. It made the difference from spiraling downward to remaining positive. Little did I know that I'd also become friends with some very cool people, and that we'd form a small accountability group; accountable for meeting goals that we set each week. Thank you for encouraging everyone at JobSeekers, Dave, and for all you and the Ship's Crew do to help job seekers. You have an outstanding program, an outstanding crew, and the messages and exercises are always very meaningful. Linda Wells is also to be thanked for her continued presence, and willingness to provide free classes. Everyone needs to attend them!
Above all, God was with me, and I praise and thank him for being able to even share this news. I received a text message from a friend the first few days after the loss of my job. She knew I was feeling down and she confirmed that the King of all Kings had a plan for me and was on my side and that His plan would be revealed when He was ready. I believed it and read it whenever I was tempted to feel "down." I was diligent, daily, in my job search for two solid months, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM. Every Monday through Friday, I got up, showered, dressed for work and went upstairs to the home office. I kept a positive attitude...I was busy networking, researching, responding to some ads, networking some more, and learning more about LinkedIn – an invaluable tool, by the way! I didn't rest much outside of job searching. I started volunteering more at my church and met some awesome people who have been praying for me as well.
God rewarded me for my diligence, my faith in Him, and my servant heart. Yesterday I sat down to have my lunch, and before I asked for the blessing of the food, I said the Lord's Prayer and prayed about my job search and asked God to forgive me for starting to feel some frustration again. I said I knew that He had a plan and only He knew when and where this job would happen to be. I had interviewed with two companies almost two weeks ago and had not heard back from them, even though I had left email and voice messages. I needed to hear something – if I was being considered, or if I should cross them off my list. I prayed that God would send me some message today, if one of these jobs was meant to be. You know the rest. God is good.
My best to you and JobSeekers,
(name withheld)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3. This Week's Meeting: Improving Your P&L (Probing and Listening) Skills
This week's session will make you more effective in your networking and interviewing of course, but it will also make you more effective in all your communications – as a parent, spouse, salesperson, entrepreneur or whatever. Come to JobSeekers tomorrow to become more effective at building rapport, questioning and listening. You'll be glad you did!
Who: All are welcome; the topics are targeted for professionals, managers and executives.
What: JobSeekers is a nondenominational career ministry.
When: Friday mornings from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Where: First Baptist Church in Peachtree City; 208 Willow Bend Road.
Why: We work with you to find a job, and we walk with you on your journey of faith.
Attire: Business casual.
Agenda: 7:30 coffee / 7:45 welcome and devotional / 8:10 introductions and announcements / 8:45 job search training module / 10:00 adjourn to the Atlanta Bread Company
We look forward to seeing you on Friday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Networking
Atlanta Bread Company
After the JobSeekers meeting, we go to the ABC from 10:15 to 11:30 for an informal gathering. There's no agenda; we just have fellowship and help each other out.
Newnan First UMC Job Networking Ministry
Come join us at our next meeting on Tuesday 9 November 6:00 PM.
Meetings are always held the second Tuesday of each month in the Parish Hall of Newnan First United Methodist Church. The church is located at 33 Greenville Street in Newnan. You may reach them by telephone at 770-253-7400 or click here and select "Job Network" under "Resources" on the left side of the home page. We look forward to seeing you there.
College Park Job Seekers
Have a family member, friend or neighbor concerned that they may lose their job, and they cannot take time off to attend a job seekers group? Attend the College Park Job Seekers Group which meets the first Saturday in every month from 9:00 am – 11:30 am. The next meeting is Saturday 6 November. This is a community service of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5885 Mallory Road, College Park, Georgia 770-306-9922.
New Hope Baptist Church
Career Transition Workshop at North Campus Missions Center
Wednesdays, October 13-27 6-8PM
***Must register for class and complete online assessment prior to class***
To register call or email Lesley Deyton at 770-461-4337 x884 / lesleyd@newhopebc.org.
If you are looking for work or considering changing careers, this workshop is for you. Free gift assessment and workbook will help you discover how God has equipped you. Résumé assistance and interview skills are also extensively covered. This workshop is designed to help you find the job(s) that you are gifted for and make the best first impression to land that job! Workshop led by Bruce King.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Devotional from Jobseekers of PTC
Today's devotional comes from:
JobSeekers of Peachtree City
Helping People Find Good Jobs, Close to Home, in Minimum Time
Get out and about. Come to JobSeekers this week. Bring a friend.
If you're not looking, forward this message to someone who needs it.
In This Issue
1. Inspiration: If You Give Up Too Early, You'll Miss the Boat Entirely
2. Success Story: The Opportunities this Ministry Provides are Priceless
3. This Week's Meeting: 16 Ways to Make a Message Persuasive
4. Networking: ABC from 10:15 to 11:30
5. Job Leads: Leads and Links in South Metro Atlanta
6. Contact: Chaplain and Ship's Crew
7. Donate: You Could Help Save a Career, a Home or Even a Marriage
JobSeekers of PTC Website | JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Inspiration: If You Give Up Too Early, You'll Miss the Boat Entirely
Three weeks ago I wrote about the world, the flesh and the devil -- the Unholy Trinity. The number of people who ask to be removed from the newsletter list usually goes up a bit on the weeks that I mention Satan in this article. It's usually 2-3 people per week v. 3-5 when I mention Satan. (For a baseline, 3359 people will receive this newsletter today.)
I think the number jumps because some people don't believe the devil exits. That was true for me for many years. I believed in the sinful nature within us, but I didn't believe in a devil who prowled around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. (See 1 Peter 5:8). What helped to change my mind were some notes in the back of my Bible. Charles C. Ryrie, in The Ryrie Study Bible, says, "The existence of Satan is taught in seven Old Testament books and by every New Testament writer."
Jesus called Satan the father of lies (John 8:44). One of his lies is that he doesn't exist. Another one of his lies is what I want to write to you about today: "Networking works for some people, but it's not working [wouldn't work] for me." Have you heard a voice telling you this?
Twenty-five years ago this last week (24 August 1985), I was on a weekend scuba trip to West Palm Beach. One dive was on Saturday night two miles off the coast in 85-foot deep water. We dove down to a sunken Greek yacht named the Mizpah. Before the dive, along with the other safety precautions, we were warned of the dangers of the Gulf Stream currents; they could cause you to miss your target, and worse, they could sweep you miles away from the dive boat in the middle of the night.
My dive buddy, Ron Bennett, and I were selected by the dive master to lead a group of 20 people down to the Mizpah. I almost had an anxiety attack right there. I wasn't terrified of the pitch-black water. I wasn't terrified of the nocturnal creatures that prowl the seas. I wasn't terrified of being swept away by the Gulf Stream currents.
I was terrified of the wrath of the other 18 people if we missed the boat!
To understand my high anxiety, I will take you back four weeks earlier. Ron and I and some of the same people were in Fort Lauderdale to dive on the Mercedes, a freighter that had been sunk in 90 feet of water a mile off the coast. Ron had dived on the ship once before; I was in Atlanta for Independence Day. He said it had been a fantastic dive; they could see the freighter as soon as they jumped in the water.
The dive master gave specific instructions on how to navigate down to the wreck. We didn't listen because the dive had been so easy for Ron a few weeks earlier. Instead, we heard the lie: "Do it your way." When we jumped in we found out that on this particular day the visibility was very poor. We couldn't see the freighter from the surface. We started swimming down anyway. We swam in what we thought was the right direction, but we couldn't see the ship or anything else. When we reached a depth of 75 feet, we finally saw something.
Sand. Nothing but sand.
Ron and I had an underwater argument about whether we should swim around on the bottom looking for a 285 foot long ship or go back to the surface and ask for help. We were rookie scuba divers and had been warned about doing a "pop up." A pop up is when you abort a dive because you didn't follow instructions. I don't remember who won the argument, but soon enough we were on the surface waving for the men on the boat to come get us.
The boat captain and dive master let us have it for not following instructions. They dragged us over to the drop site again while we hung on to the dive platform for dear life. We used up most of our air during this exhausting experience. We found the boat on the second try, but were only able to spend seven minutes exploring the Mercedes. For the rest of the weekend (and for years to come), the other divers teased us unmercifully because we missed the boat.
The memories of our incompetence were racing through my mind as Ron and I were on the platform about to jump into the dark and eerie waters of the Atlantic. Then I remembered our training; I remembered what the instructors had said about reaching our goal. "Swim hard, and don't take your eyes off your compass." We swam due south; we swam directly against the current. We did what we knew was right -- even though we couldn't see the target. I looked up just before we hit the bow of the sunken yacht.
It was a wonderful dive. I'll never forget it. The depth, breadth and beauty of God's creation is just amazing. We went into one room and pushed our flashlights into the sand so they didn't cast any light. In the total darkness, it was cool to see hundreds, maybe thousands, of bioluminescent creatures glowing and floating at the bottom of the ocean.
What I learned from those two dives applies to job search: sometimes your goal is right before you, but if you don't follow wise counsel or if you give up too early, you'll miss the boat entirely. So here are some reminders from someone who's seen thousands of successful searches:
1. Listen to the experts. We know what we're talking about. Don't take your eyes off your compass. Your target will be right ahead of you if you stay focused on your goal and don't let yourself get distracted. If you listen to the lies that are flying around in your head, you could end up hundreds of feet away from your target and looking at nothing but sand. Swim hard. Keep your eyes on your compass. Don't give up too early.
2. Network. Chances are as high as 80% that you will find your next job through a personal contact. Why not shorten the time by doing more of it? Bring up your job search in almost every conversation you have, especially with new people. Make one phone call for every 30 minutes you spend on the computer. You may not see your next job up ahead, but it's out there. You have to do the right things in the right proportions to find it.
3. Pray and read the Bible. Chances are as high as 100% that your next job will suit your needs better if you seek the Lord with all your heart. Why not improve the quality of your life by doing more of it? Get into the Word every day, especially now while you have the time. You may not see where the Lord is leading you, but I guarantee you He has a plan and a purpose for your life and your career.
He will lead you in the darkness of job search; He will never leave you nor forsake you.
"I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them." (Isaiah 42:16)
See you tomorrow at JobSeekers, the place where we use God's compass!
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2. Success Story: The Opportunities this Ministry Provides are Priceless
We love to hear from you when you land a new position. Please write and let us know how you found your job, what you learned from the experience, and how JobSeekers helped you.
Dave:
The stars and the JobSeekers' tools finally aligned and I was offered a job yesterday. On Monday, I start to work for one of the companies that I targeted early on in my job search. There were no openings for a quality assurance manager at the company when I started my search in mid-May, but I contacted a former colleague (now retired) who happens to be the brother-in-law of the owner of the company. He put me in touch with another former colleague of mine from over 10 years ago who is currently the company's corporate director of quality. When an opening appeared on the company's career website 10 days ago, I was ready to strike.
I submitted my resume online and immediately called my contact at the company to inquire about the position. He told me the ins and outs and asked me to email him the latest version of my resume. Two days later I got a call from the VP of HR to come in for an interview with him and my contact. My contact obviously lobbied for me behind the scenes, because at the start of the interview the VP of HR said he did not want to waste our time going through my resume since my contact had vouched for me.
After about four hours of open discussion about the company and the job, lunch, and a tour of the plant, I was invited back four days later for an hour-long interview with the COO that is responsible for the plant where I would be working. That afternoon the COO called me with an offer.
I will be making less money than I was making, but I feel blessed for the upsides that this job has to offer:
1) ...I do not have to relocate my family and the commute is only about 40 minutes.
2) The job brings me back to an industry that I love ...
3) The company is profitable and growing fast, so there will be ample opportunities for advancement.
4) The company's mission statement includes "honoring the covenant to support Christian-based ministries from the profits generated through the business."
Dave, please give my regards to the Ship's Crew and all of the job seekers for the insight and fellowship that they provide. The resources, tools and networking opportunities that this ministry provides are priceless.
Kind regards,
(name withheld for privacy)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3. This Week's Meeting: 16 Ways to Make a Message Persuasive
Bring your marketing hat for tomorrow; you are the product! We will learn and practice some techniques and skills to ensure that the hiring company remembers us in a very positive way. This week's session will make you more effective in your networking and interviewing of course, but it will also make you more effective in all your communications -- as a parent, spouse, salesperson or entrepreneur.
Bring an extra copy of your resume for tomorrow's application activity.
Who: All are welcome; the topics are targeted for professionals, managers and executives.
What: JobSeekers is a nondenominational career ministry.
When: Friday mornings from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Where: First Baptist Church in Peachtree City; 208 Willow Bend Road.
Why: We work with you to find a job, and we walk with you on your journey of faith.
Attire: Business casual.
Agenda: 7:30 coffee / 7:45 welcome and devotional / 8:10 introductions and announcements / 8:45 job search training module / 10:00 adjourn to the Atlanta Bread Company
We look forward to seeing you on Friday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Networking
Atlanta Bread Company
After the JobSeekers meeting, we go to the ABC from 10:15 to 11:30 for an informal gathering. There's no agenda; we just have fellowship and help each other out.
Newnan First UMC Job Networking Ministry
Come join us at our next meeting on Tuesday 14 September 6:00 PM.
Meetings are always held the second Tuesday of each month in the Parish Hall of Newnan First United Methodist Church. The church is located at 33 Greenville Street in Newnan. You may reach them by telephone at 770-253-7400 or click here and select "Job Network" under "Resources" on the left side of the home page. We look forward to seeing you there.
College Park Job Seekers
Have a family member, friend or neighbor concerned that they may lose their job, and they cannot take time off to attend a job seekers group? Attend the College Park Job Seekers Group which meets the first Saturday in every month from 9:00 am – 11:30 am. The next meeting is Saturday 4 September. This is a community service of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5885 Mallory Road, College Park, Georgia 770-306-9922.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
JobSeekers of Peachtree City
Helping People Find Good Jobs, Close to Home, in Minimum Time
Get out and about. Come to JobSeekers this week. Bring a friend.
If you're not looking, forward this message to someone who needs it.
In This Issue
1. Inspiration: If You Give Up Too Early, You'll Miss the Boat Entirely
2. Success Story: The Opportunities this Ministry Provides are Priceless
3. This Week's Meeting: 16 Ways to Make a Message Persuasive
4. Networking: ABC from 10:15 to 11:30
5. Job Leads: Leads and Links in South Metro Atlanta
6. Contact: Chaplain and Ship's Crew
7. Donate: You Could Help Save a Career, a Home or Even a Marriage
JobSeekers of PTC Website | JobSeekers of PTC on LinkedIn
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Inspiration: If You Give Up Too Early, You'll Miss the Boat Entirely
Three weeks ago I wrote about the world, the flesh and the devil -- the Unholy Trinity. The number of people who ask to be removed from the newsletter list usually goes up a bit on the weeks that I mention Satan in this article. It's usually 2-3 people per week v. 3-5 when I mention Satan. (For a baseline, 3359 people will receive this newsletter today.)
I think the number jumps because some people don't believe the devil exits. That was true for me for many years. I believed in the sinful nature within us, but I didn't believe in a devil who prowled around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. (See 1 Peter 5:8). What helped to change my mind were some notes in the back of my Bible. Charles C. Ryrie, in The Ryrie Study Bible, says, "The existence of Satan is taught in seven Old Testament books and by every New Testament writer."
Jesus called Satan the father of lies (John 8:44). One of his lies is that he doesn't exist. Another one of his lies is what I want to write to you about today: "Networking works for some people, but it's not working [wouldn't work] for me." Have you heard a voice telling you this?
Twenty-five years ago this last week (24 August 1985), I was on a weekend scuba trip to West Palm Beach. One dive was on Saturday night two miles off the coast in 85-foot deep water. We dove down to a sunken Greek yacht named the Mizpah. Before the dive, along with the other safety precautions, we were warned of the dangers of the Gulf Stream currents; they could cause you to miss your target, and worse, they could sweep you miles away from the dive boat in the middle of the night.
My dive buddy, Ron Bennett, and I were selected by the dive master to lead a group of 20 people down to the Mizpah. I almost had an anxiety attack right there. I wasn't terrified of the pitch-black water. I wasn't terrified of the nocturnal creatures that prowl the seas. I wasn't terrified of being swept away by the Gulf Stream currents.
I was terrified of the wrath of the other 18 people if we missed the boat!
To understand my high anxiety, I will take you back four weeks earlier. Ron and I and some of the same people were in Fort Lauderdale to dive on the Mercedes, a freighter that had been sunk in 90 feet of water a mile off the coast. Ron had dived on the ship once before; I was in Atlanta for Independence Day. He said it had been a fantastic dive; they could see the freighter as soon as they jumped in the water.
The dive master gave specific instructions on how to navigate down to the wreck. We didn't listen because the dive had been so easy for Ron a few weeks earlier. Instead, we heard the lie: "Do it your way." When we jumped in we found out that on this particular day the visibility was very poor. We couldn't see the freighter from the surface. We started swimming down anyway. We swam in what we thought was the right direction, but we couldn't see the ship or anything else. When we reached a depth of 75 feet, we finally saw something.
Sand. Nothing but sand.
Ron and I had an underwater argument about whether we should swim around on the bottom looking for a 285 foot long ship or go back to the surface and ask for help. We were rookie scuba divers and had been warned about doing a "pop up." A pop up is when you abort a dive because you didn't follow instructions. I don't remember who won the argument, but soon enough we were on the surface waving for the men on the boat to come get us.
The boat captain and dive master let us have it for not following instructions. They dragged us over to the drop site again while we hung on to the dive platform for dear life. We used up most of our air during this exhausting experience. We found the boat on the second try, but were only able to spend seven minutes exploring the Mercedes. For the rest of the weekend (and for years to come), the other divers teased us unmercifully because we missed the boat.
The memories of our incompetence were racing through my mind as Ron and I were on the platform about to jump into the dark and eerie waters of the Atlantic. Then I remembered our training; I remembered what the instructors had said about reaching our goal. "Swim hard, and don't take your eyes off your compass." We swam due south; we swam directly against the current. We did what we knew was right -- even though we couldn't see the target. I looked up just before we hit the bow of the sunken yacht.
It was a wonderful dive. I'll never forget it. The depth, breadth and beauty of God's creation is just amazing. We went into one room and pushed our flashlights into the sand so they didn't cast any light. In the total darkness, it was cool to see hundreds, maybe thousands, of bioluminescent creatures glowing and floating at the bottom of the ocean.
What I learned from those two dives applies to job search: sometimes your goal is right before you, but if you don't follow wise counsel or if you give up too early, you'll miss the boat entirely. So here are some reminders from someone who's seen thousands of successful searches:
1. Listen to the experts. We know what we're talking about. Don't take your eyes off your compass. Your target will be right ahead of you if you stay focused on your goal and don't let yourself get distracted. If you listen to the lies that are flying around in your head, you could end up hundreds of feet away from your target and looking at nothing but sand. Swim hard. Keep your eyes on your compass. Don't give up too early.
2. Network. Chances are as high as 80% that you will find your next job through a personal contact. Why not shorten the time by doing more of it? Bring up your job search in almost every conversation you have, especially with new people. Make one phone call for every 30 minutes you spend on the computer. You may not see your next job up ahead, but it's out there. You have to do the right things in the right proportions to find it.
3. Pray and read the Bible. Chances are as high as 100% that your next job will suit your needs better if you seek the Lord with all your heart. Why not improve the quality of your life by doing more of it? Get into the Word every day, especially now while you have the time. You may not see where the Lord is leading you, but I guarantee you He has a plan and a purpose for your life and your career.
He will lead you in the darkness of job search; He will never leave you nor forsake you.
"I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them." (Isaiah 42:16)
See you tomorrow at JobSeekers, the place where we use God's compass!
Copyright © 2010 / Dave O'Farrell / All Rights Reserved
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2. Success Story: The Opportunities this Ministry Provides are Priceless
We love to hear from you when you land a new position. Please write and let us know how you found your job, what you learned from the experience, and how JobSeekers helped you.
Dave:
The stars and the JobSeekers' tools finally aligned and I was offered a job yesterday. On Monday, I start to work for one of the companies that I targeted early on in my job search. There were no openings for a quality assurance manager at the company when I started my search in mid-May, but I contacted a former colleague (now retired) who happens to be the brother-in-law of the owner of the company. He put me in touch with another former colleague of mine from over 10 years ago who is currently the company's corporate director of quality. When an opening appeared on the company's career website 10 days ago, I was ready to strike.
I submitted my resume online and immediately called my contact at the company to inquire about the position. He told me the ins and outs and asked me to email him the latest version of my resume. Two days later I got a call from the VP of HR to come in for an interview with him and my contact. My contact obviously lobbied for me behind the scenes, because at the start of the interview the VP of HR said he did not want to waste our time going through my resume since my contact had vouched for me.
After about four hours of open discussion about the company and the job, lunch, and a tour of the plant, I was invited back four days later for an hour-long interview with the COO that is responsible for the plant where I would be working. That afternoon the COO called me with an offer.
I will be making less money than I was making, but I feel blessed for the upsides that this job has to offer:
1) ...I do not have to relocate my family and the commute is only about 40 minutes.
2) The job brings me back to an industry that I love ...
3) The company is profitable and growing fast, so there will be ample opportunities for advancement.
4) The company's mission statement includes "honoring the covenant to support Christian-based ministries from the profits generated through the business."
Dave, please give my regards to the Ship's Crew and all of the job seekers for the insight and fellowship that they provide. The resources, tools and networking opportunities that this ministry provides are priceless.
Kind regards,
(name withheld for privacy)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3. This Week's Meeting: 16 Ways to Make a Message Persuasive
Bring your marketing hat for tomorrow; you are the product! We will learn and practice some techniques and skills to ensure that the hiring company remembers us in a very positive way. This week's session will make you more effective in your networking and interviewing of course, but it will also make you more effective in all your communications -- as a parent, spouse, salesperson or entrepreneur.
Bring an extra copy of your resume for tomorrow's application activity.
Who: All are welcome; the topics are targeted for professionals, managers and executives.
What: JobSeekers is a nondenominational career ministry.
When: Friday mornings from 7:30 to 10:00 am.
Where: First Baptist Church in Peachtree City; 208 Willow Bend Road.
Why: We work with you to find a job, and we walk with you on your journey of faith.
Attire: Business casual.
Agenda: 7:30 coffee / 7:45 welcome and devotional / 8:10 introductions and announcements / 8:45 job search training module / 10:00 adjourn to the Atlanta Bread Company
We look forward to seeing you on Friday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Networking
Atlanta Bread Company
After the JobSeekers meeting, we go to the ABC from 10:15 to 11:30 for an informal gathering. There's no agenda; we just have fellowship and help each other out.
Newnan First UMC Job Networking Ministry
Come join us at our next meeting on Tuesday 14 September 6:00 PM.
Meetings are always held the second Tuesday of each month in the Parish Hall of Newnan First United Methodist Church. The church is located at 33 Greenville Street in Newnan. You may reach them by telephone at 770-253-7400 or click here and select "Job Network" under "Resources" on the left side of the home page. We look forward to seeing you there.
College Park Job Seekers
Have a family member, friend or neighbor concerned that they may lose their job, and they cannot take time off to attend a job seekers group? Attend the College Park Job Seekers Group which meets the first Saturday in every month from 9:00 am – 11:30 am. The next meeting is Saturday 4 September. This is a community service of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, 5885 Mallory Road, College Park, Georgia 770-306-9922.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)