Your Future Works

Election Year Promises

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 19:12:00 +0000

In my home state, our election year will be spread out over 12 whole months due to our recalling the Governor and other state officials. Combined with the local and national elections we have intense coverage of candidates everyday during this period. Who is profiting from such coverage? Also, what are the implications for citizens that may benefit from such elections? What about employment solutions that are a hot issue for most of the candidates?
In my opinion, those who profit from elections include ad agencies, commercial printers, caterers, transportation companies, phone companies, radio/tv stations, commercial meeting and office space, etc. In this list, I wonder how many long term unemployed people profit from this industry. As I stated before, jobs are a very hot issue on the minds of many people without one, but do these politicians change the statistics? One thing that I forgot to mention is that for any candidate presently without work, winning his or her seat quickly solves their jobless dilemma. The rest of us are out of luck without our own campaigns so that we can have a job, too.

Companies Are Hiring

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 23:54:00 +0000

It appears that the economy is improving somewhat due to more companies adding new employees. While this is good news for those who get these positions, there are too many other people that are not so fortunate. Many people have been looking for work for 2-3 years through no fault of their own. To make matters worse, some companies penalize the long term unemployed. Action must be taken to solve this situation. In my opinion, a job should be available for anyone who wants one. However, in the real world such a policy does not exist. There have to be many options for the unemployed that should include a jobs bill, training programs, and training for potential entrepreneurs. With millions of people needing a job, we cannot afford to just watch peoples' lives disintegrate.
For individuals, I would say create your own job. Do not wait for someone to knock on your door with a job offer. More about this next time. Companies are hiring, but so are people.

Self-Employment is the Answer

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 23:06:00 +0000

I think that in some cases, self-employment is the only answer. What happens when people are released from prison and cannot find a job no matter how hard they try? Do we want them to return to a life of crime? Who would benefit from that outcome? The criminal justice system gets their client base constant while providing stable employment for its employees. I am not saying that a plot is in force, but it just makes no sense to release people back into the community without a plan for their success. The American way is for a person to work and pay their own way. However, if you are denied that opportunity, what does that say about the values in this country? Work accomplishes more than just providing money on which to survive. It also gives you a reason to get up in the morning, to be on a schedule, to be accountable to something and to keep you too busy to get involved in questionable activities.
These days many companies do not hire those convicted of crimes. As a result the outcome for convicted felons is bleak. I saw a show on TV that documented the problems that a released felon had when trying to find work after being behind bars for 10 years. With numerous doors slammed in his face, he finally decided to use his passion to start a business. He happened to be a fitness devotee and got himself certified as a personal trainer. This step made it possible for him to get clients needing his services and gave him hope for his future.
More ex-felons may have to go the self-employment route, if they cannot find work. It cannot be an option for them to remain idle because society wants to continue punishing them for their crimes. Self employment is the answer for ex-felons as well as any other group that cannot be easily employed.

Smarter Holiday Spending

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 23:28:00 +0000

Retailers hope that we do not engage in smart holiday spending because they want to make every cent that they can before the year ends. While capitalism is our system and can benefit all, we should look harder at our spending in such a bad economy. Did you ever think that marketers are using mind control to make people spend money that they cannot afford to spend? To sleep in front of a store for two days to spend money on items that are luxuries seems to be over the top. How do retailers get people to act so crazy? Why do shoppers attack each other when a sale price is at stake? Certainly, these people must have been unduly influenced by something in order to act this way.
At a time when so many people have lost everything, the rest of us should be thinking of our own futures. If not, we should at least think of how we can help family or friends in need. There is nothing wrong with buying things, but we should look at the big picture. Perhaps, we could participate in a joint venture and embark on a business idea. If you spend money, consider spending it on something that will make you money instead of some luxury item that you may not have needed in the first place. Smarter holiday spending is mandatory with all of the tricks that retailers have up their sleeves.

The Road to Success

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 23:14:00 +0000

Why are we not moving along on the road to success? A certain woman that I know is constantly asking me why some people do not do more to help themselves. My answer is probably the same every time. Many people have not been given the proper tools to make a difference in their own lives. Without those tools, nothing will change.
Those tools include: education, goals, movitation, confidence, self-worth.
Without education you cannot move ahead. Education starts at birth and should continue infinitum.
Goals have to be set to measure the progress that you make.
Self-confidence tells you that you can do whatever you decide to do.
Self-worth will tell you that harmful acts are beneath you and you will not allow them to interfere with the goals that you set.
Goals should include a plan of action and a deadline.
I think that that if some of the above tools are not present in a person, how will they proceed to reach their potential? We can see evidence of such conditions all around us. You may even see this evidence when you look in your own mirror. We can all ask ourselves, what is preventing me from accomplishing something great in my life? Once the question is answered, a process is needed to overcome whatever is holding you back. A lot of people know exactly what happened in life that caused them to lose their way on the road to success.

A Baby Boomer With An Agenda

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 23:12:00 +0000

I have to admit that I am a Baby Boomer with an agenda, and I will be happy to explain myself.
First, as a Baby boomer I have learned a lot from the mistakes that I made in my life. Poor life decisions do not go away, but become life lessons. It is hard to live for 60 plus years and not pick up anything of value. While looking back, a lot of things seem so clear to me. This translates to Lesson #1. Do not leave school without a plan along with the steps needed to implement that plan. If this advice is ignored, you will be forced to rely on the generosity of others. ( Good luck with that)
Secondly, I feel that it is not too late to implement some of my business ideas that I thought of in recent years. Doing so would serve two purposes. I can implement my own plan and at the same time be a example to others who may desire to improve their own lives. I have known many older people who give up their dreams because they felt that they are too old to start something new. It is never too late to follow a dream if you desire to do it. Therefore, Lesson #2 is to believe in yourself and do not be discouraged by the past, but look ahead.
So, yes, I am a Baby Boomer with an agenda. Furthermore, I will not be giving up on my dreams as long as my mind allows me to proceed with the program.

Networking

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 02:22:00 +0000

After attending a class on networking for business purposes, I was pleasantly surprised to learn how important it is to connect to other people. Even if there is not an immediate benefit to your business, over time it all helps. Networking should start with you offering to help those that you meet, if and when, you can. In addition, it does no good to meet people if you call them and they do not respond to your contact. That means that no real connection was made. Networking is a valuable tool to help grow your business if it is done correctly. It should benefit both sides of any encounter.
You can attend any type of event, even if it is not related to your industry, to meet people. True networking results in win-win relationships. Such meetings may also result in referrals.
So do not ignore the opportunities to meet new people which, in turn, can help grow your business network.

Brainstorming

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 05:05:00 +0000

Brainstorming is useful when you are trying to think of a new business venture. You can look at your own daily routine and ask yourself, what would be a better way of doing this? Your answer may be the beginning of a new business or even an invention. Many people think of new ideas but never follow through to make their idea a reality. In other words, the idea was only a dream and had no action steps attached to it.
Brainstorming is something that should be done on a regular basis if you want to think of new ideas.
Companies often brainstorm in meetings to solve various problems. Individuals can also get together with supportive people to brainstorm. It is said that two heads are better than one. So find people in your life who can benefit from brainstorming sessions. The results should benefit all and trains the brain to be more creative. Thinking outside of the box applies here.

New Jobs?

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 22:21:00 +0000

There are monthly reports on how many new jobs were created the previous month some of which go unfilled due to lack of applicants.

One day I was on a government website attempting to obtain instructions for doing business in my state. I was amazed at the choice of possible business enterprises that could exist in the area. Here is a partial list.
Bait dealer
Reinsurance Co
Fishing guide
Milk hauler
Welding service
Fuel transporter
Soil tester
Timber harvesting
The point for the list is that I wonder if many younger people do not know about such businesses and are missing out on opportunities. Some of these businesses may exist in more rural areas, but work is work. People relocate for work and it may be well worth is for some.

You're Hired, Now What?

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 20:12:00 +0000

After months of looking for work, you finally get a job offer. While that is great news, it does not mean that you should relax. Due to the state of today's job market, no job is permanent. Once hired at a new job, you still need to have a plan for any possible future lay-offs. That is not to say that you should be paranoid, rather you should be thinking of the future. Your new plan should include a plan for a side business venture, a plan to obtain more training, or some type of financial investment.
The point of this is to avoid being dependent on one source of income. When a job ends, it is critical to have another source of income.   Too many people have experienced this vary scenario.   What about a married couple working at the same company and they both get laid-off? In such a case the household is devastated when the income stops.
A good thing about this economy is that there are many lessons to be learned.   One of the biggest lessons is to have other income sources.
We all have to change the ways that we conduct our financial lives.  Otherwise, we will be at the mercy of a company concerned with their own bottom line.

Time for Action

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 21:21:00 +0000

To say that is a time for action is an understatement. For those affected by the bad economy, finding work has been out of their reach for too long. If you tell people that you are out of work, their reaction may not be that sympathetic due to the large numbers of people in the same position. With that being said, "what can be done to improve the situation of the unemployed?"

A jobs bill can be passed by the federal government.
People can return to school for more training.
People can get together to invest, or to start business.
Individuals can start a home business
You, I and the government can do nothing.

My favorite ideal from the above list is for individuals to start a home business. This puts control of one's fate into their own hands. Many people who will have no luck finding a job can easily improve their odds by starting a business. What is the alternative when no one will hire you?

Times are tough, but the tough keep going. Of course, this line of thinking is of little use to anyone looking for answers. Those who do understand what's going on they can help their friends explore options. The time for action for most of us is now. There our opportunities for those with a vision, the motivation and an urgent need.

Does Older Equal Dumber?

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 22:53:00 +0000

I am sure that many middle-aged persons have noticed that people treat you like you are stupid. Does older equal dumber? No, but it starts at home with your own kids. All of a sudden or gradually, they start treating you like you are the child and know nothing. I have noticed this personally with a male child. Why does this matter? It matters because just the opposite is actually true. It's also true that in order to live up to your life's purpose, the second half of life can be the ideal time. Some of us fifty and over remain in the jobs that we have had for years. This may be a good thing for those people. However, if you need work and do find it, you may end up with a job that does not give you the opportunity to show your abilities. But, of course, when you need a job, some aspects of the situation have to be ignored. On the other hand being over fifty is a good time to finally take the plunge into self-employment. With years of experience under your belt, self-employment can serve several purposes. Two of which are to give you the satisfaction of knowing that you were able to run a business and create your own job.
Being older does in no way equal being dumber. For those that treat your that way are just misinformed. Older people have a lot to offer and to pass on to those younger than themselves. Starting a business is one way to demonstrate your skills, abilities and talents.

Neighborhood or Business Opportunity?

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 21:14:00 +0000

Is where you live a neighborhood or a business opportunity? Walking through my neighborhood with some of my neighbors and some public officials, I could see possibilities for economic development. The right people, or those who are creative, motivated, and have a business sense will see what I saw while up close and personal in my community.
Every neighborhood needs various services and individuals decide where and how they will get such services. Certain kinds of services would be so convenient to access closer to home.
Lawn care, snow removal, street cleaning, child care, car repair, or home repair businesses could be started with marketing efforts focused on neighborhoods.
Why should such business ideas be considered?
The unemployment rate is high. A service business can be started easier due to no inventory requirement. People in the neighborhood have the skills needed to succeed. If not, courses in business are available. This has the opportunity to be a win-win situation.
There are other types of businesses than many neighborhoods can support. Any kind of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options would be welcome anywhere. What about all of the services that an aging population needs in order to survive into old age?
My main point is that for those looking for opportunities, they could look outside of their own back doors for inspiration. Is where you live a neighborhood or a business opportunity? Your answer depends on how well you think outside of the box. Its time to open your back door and look outside.

Is There A Job Out There?

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 21:50:00 +0000

Some people are asking themselves, is there as job out there for me? If someone has been without work for two years or more, how can they remain hopeful of finding work? It seems normal to lose hope over an extended period of joblessness. At no other point in our lifetimes, has it ever taken so many people so long time to get a job. This is true if you are unemployed. Someone working may have taken a long time to find work, but they may not have had as much time to devote to their job search. For a jobless person, looking for work is their full time work.
The problem, as I see it, is that Americans have been sold a bill of goods about work. We were told early on that the key to our success is finding a good job. That was fine and dandy as long as jobs were available. But how does this belief apply when fourteen million people are out of work?
Many people need to rethink their ideas about work. No one should be in a position of looking for work for two years or more.
Some people:

return to school
relocate
think of self-employment ideas.

Each person has to decide the best plan of action for themselves. In order for our personal and collective health to improve, we all must think outside of the box.
Is there a job out there for you, your friends, or family?

Update for the soon to be released March 2013 unemployment report:

In light of the March unemployent stats, many people are getting worried about not finding work.
I have ideas of what should we should be doing differently to tackle the problem of those who have lost hope. Although we live in a capitalistic society, we need to have flexibility when it comes to the unemployed. If you teach a person how to fish they will be able to always have food. People do not want handouts, they want to be productive, proud income earners. That should be the goal that we have for all who wish to participate in the American dream. Some attention needs to be given to solve the job crisis so that more people can take care of themselves as well as helping the economy.

Lessons From A Bad Economy

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 01:34:00 +0000

What can be learned from a bad economy? For those who did not believe that fat meat is greasy, perhaps, now their minds have changed about how people are affected.

Young people have to get serious about getting an education, especially while it is free.
Challenging situations (bad credit, criminal background and long term joblessness) in your personal life may exclude your from getting a job.
If you have a job, you need to have a plan of action in case that job ends.
Do not rely on one source of income
Some people (depending on challenging situations) may never work again.
No one will help the unemployed until corporations start losing money when we can't buy their goods.

Even though people have no control over every challenge in their lives, there is still a price to be paid in regards to employment. The power must be taken back by the individual to determine their own future. Get mad, then calm down and begin to think of what you can do to change your own situation. What can we learn from a bad economy? Life will not be going back to the way it was when jobs were plentiful. All people have to fine tune their approach to work. This is what we can learn from a bad economy.

Let's Start Micro-Mini Businesses

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 22:06:00 +0000

A micro-mini business is the size of business that the average person could start with a little help. Most of us are familiar with the term small business. The term may imply that even your neighbor could be operating such a business.
Did you know that small businesses includes multi-million dollar companies? In many cases, depending on your neighborhood, your neighbor is not operating a small business. Perhaps that same neighbor has a business, but small does not describe such a business. The point that I am making is: What is the true definition of a small business? According to the SBA.gov ( Small Business Administration) website, a small business is one that grosses up to seven million dollars. Based on this information, it is obvious that many unemployed people will not open a true small business. While it is true that a seven million dollar business did not start at that level of revenue, I do not want to confuse the issue by saying that unemployed people should get help in starting a small business.
The unemployed should be assisted in starting micro-mini businesses that would be in place of the job that they cannot find in this economy. Why a micro-mini business? Because there are agencies that do assist potential business owners who want to begin micro-businesses. Those agencies receive federal dollars to operate. They can lend up to $100,000 to clients who do their homework and have the necessary documentation, sufficient credit history and a business plan.
So my thoughts focus on the unemployed who would not be eligible for micro-loans. These people may not ever work again if left to their own devices. While I am not advocating that every unemployed person start a business, that option should be available. The chronically unemployed are facing challenges not easily overcome.
Lack of job skills, being over age forty-five, having a criminal history, negative credit, poor job history can result in being pushed to the back of the employment line.
A program that could offer a $5000 grant to any unemployed person to start a home-based business could be an option for a jobless person with the motivation and support to become self-employed. Safeguards could be built into the program to prevent waste and fraud. Why not try more than one thing to help people and the economy?
These types of businesses would be micro-mini businesses where the goal is to make at least $25,000 annually. After that the owner could expand, based on the experience obtained while still small.
Once a person has experience running a business his/her knowledge increases. This knowledge and experience can be the beginning of another chapter. Learning to be a business person and being self-sufficient can be as valuable as having a college degree.
Let's find a way to help people start micro-mini businesses.

Put That Education to Work

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 21:46:00 +0000

The cost of a college education is so expensive that any graduate must be able to put that education to work. In other words, anyone graduating from college must find a way to make that expensive knowledge pay off. Speaking as someone without a college degree, I would say that this statement also applies to anyone who has lived for a long time. College consists of about four years of studying different subjects. Reading, doing research, and writing papers all make it possible for a student to absorb information in various areas. While they were in the lecture halls dreaming about graduation day, some students did not realize that corporate America would change the rules. That is exactly what happened. Unable to find work, students who could return to their parents' basements chose to pursue post-graduate degrees. This was done hoping that corporate America would be more accepting once that new degree was in hand.
All of this is fine and dandy for the student, but I think that every graduate needs a Plan B. If being in corporate America is not an option, should you report to the nearest fast food restaurant ready for duty? I think not. Here I go again with that create your own job mentality. Just as a person who has lived for 50 plus years must know something, a college graduate has much to offer to society. He or she must find a way to market and/or present himself as a commodity with value. The good old days of being able to get a different job every few months are long gone and will never return. As a result, only those who can rise to the top (those with higher education) will be employable. The bad part of this is that some with degrees will only get the jobs that a high school graduate could actually do. This is happening right now. Look at various job openings. The job descriptions in many cases require a college degree to perform non-technical job duties.
Because we are in dire straits regarding jobs, both older people and college graduates must find a way to put that education to work. It does require skill and ingenuity to figure this out, but it is a matter of thinking outside of the box. Put that education to work and create your own job.

Motivation Is Required

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 19:54:00 +0000

Some level of motivation is required for everything that we do. Some say that the unsuccessful lack the oomph to get ahead like the rest of us.  A good question is, where does motivation come from? The answer, of course, is different for each person. Some people become motivated to do better than what they experienced early in life. Others get motivated at the urging of their parents who will not accept mediocrity.
However, as adults who may be in a rut, motivation may be all around depending on your perception. That motivation has to be internal, along with external motivational influences that you introduce into your life.
For many people, their environment is full of negative forces that can affect their goals in a unproductive way. Alcohol, drugs and depression can be included in the list of things that limit achievement.  Let's not forget about those naysayers that believe that no one can do anything right.   For that reason, we must be in charge of our own motivation. If you find it in short supply internally, there are books, DVDs, CDs, workshops, seminars, podcasts, webinars, posters, bookmarks and the internet to pump up your level of commitment. Self-help is one of the largest categories of published materials because is can make a difference in your life because many people wish to improve their situation.
Most people think too small and accept too little on their way to the mountaintop. There is no one looking over your shoulder telling you to stay on the "you can achieve pathway". This message has to be managed by you.  To reach your goals for education, career, wellness, financial freedom or family, motivation is required.

Ex-Cons: Who Needs Them?

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 21:43:00 +0000

Who needs ex-cons back in our communities? Many people think that anyone convicted of a crime should be locked up forever. The prison industrial complex depends on  individuals being locked away. The way the job market is today, anyone with a criminal background has a small chance of getting hired at many companies. Even though such discrimination is against the law, how can it be enforced? Also, how would you know if your criminal record is being used against you when so many are applying for the same job opening?
Who needs ex-cons back in our communities?   The companies advertising for various job openings don't need them. As I previously stated those companies can find any kind of more perfect applicant so they do not have to accept ex-cons.  Your fast food restaurant,  your nursing home, your day care, or your retail outlets are not looking for our ex-cons.
Who needs ex-cons back in our communities? All of the fatherless young men who have no direction ,or who have no idea of how to be a responsible man.   These young men could learn so much from the knowledge and experience that our ex-cons have. They need to know:
Going to prison is not a status symbol.
Prison is not somewhere to be.
Fathering children that they cannot or will not care for is not right.
An education in today's world is a necessity.
That they have a responsibility to themselves, their families and to the community to do the best that they can.

Who else is better qualified to teach the above lessons to young men who lack guidance or proper direction?
We need to wake up as a community and realize that ex-cons who have rehabilitated themselves can offer much to all of us and to young men, in particular. Instead we allow those released from prison or jail to keep paying for prior mistakes and, become bitter when all they want is a second chance. Don't get me wrong, there are many men in the community without criminal records who need jobs. They should get them.. However, we have to go with the resources that we have and use them well.
Who need ex-cons back in our communities? We all do. They have something to contribute and we should be more than glad to let them.
Ex-felons, like the rest of us, need to think outside of the box and determine how they can turn a negative into a positive. Some ex-burglars and ex-computer hackers have paid their debt to society and discovered how to make many from their prior experiences. They act as consultants to help companies protect themselves from such criminal activity. This formula can be adapted to other ex-criminals so that they can rebuild their lives and give back at the same time. Schools should be willing to make this happen, especially in light of the recent budget cuts to many schools.

Affirmations for Success

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 20:49:00 +0000

In light of the tremendous challenges involved in improving your life, these affirmations can make a difference in your future.

I will set goals and write them down.
I will not accept NO for an answer in the pursuit of my goals.
I will constantly surprise myself with what I can accomplish.
I will not allow anyone to question my abilities or to discourage me.
I will believe that I can do anything once I make a commitment.
I will encourage others in my life to work on themselves.
I will make an effort to get out of my comfort zone.
I will not give up.
I will take care of my own needs by paying attention to my mental and physical well being.

Some people have to deal with a lot of negative messages in their professional and personal lives. It is important to remind yourself that you have the ability to rise above anything.

Retracing My Steps

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 03:52:00 +0000

I claim this knowledge and opinions by virtue of the fact that I have retraced the steps of my life. Granted, there are many steps of my life to retrace.  In other words, I have lived for many years.  I think that it is normal for a person to look back at their life, analyze it and attempt to point out mistakes or regrets. It just so happens that I am taking the extra step of writing about my past and allowing people to see what I see.   Here are some of what I found out the hard way about establishing a career (or the lack thereof).

1. Do not leave high school without a diploma and a plan. I had the diploma, but no plan.

2. If you get a decent job, set goals describing what you will do next. More education may be an option.   My own goals were too vague.

3. Even if you are not happy with a job, stay at least one year to establish a good work history.   Employers get real picky about those perceived to be job hoppers.

4. Be careful about taking jobs that do not fit in with your career track. This is a hard thing to comply with because sometimes you just need the income.

5. In additon to getting more education, consider starting a part time business. This is your insurance policy against a job layoff.

These points are just some of what I look at when I retrace the steps of my life. Although I cannot undo anything, I am happy to share my experiences with others. Even when you feel that you have made wrong decisions in life, it helps if you use the experience as a chance to learn what to do better next time, or to help others.
I found that retracing the steps of my life proved to be a valuable experience.

Being Older, Unemployable and Broke

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 18:40:00 +0000

Let's focus on being older, unemployable and broke as it relates to the current job market. Older is defined as over age fifty in the job market. Just ask anyone who has been looking for work and not getting any positive responses. This is not to say that it is an across the board situation because many people do find work even if they are older. However, as the clock ticks it can be more challenging to get work as an older person. In addition, it depends on your skill level. It seems that if you apply for unskilled jobs, you have a better chance of being hired. For example, if you had previously done secretarial work and you decide to apply for a home health provider job, you have a good chance of getting that job. Why is that true? I think it is because home health care providers go into the homes of elderly, frail people to keep that person out of a nursing home. An older worker can better relate to another older person and the client will probably trust someone closer to their own age. Also, not to bash young people, but sometimes they do not have the patience, maturity, good judgement or integrity to work in the home of a venerable older person. I am saying all of this to say that for the former secretary, this type of job may be the only job that they can get due to the competition in the job market. We have all heard it stated that many people may not be able to retire at age sixty-five much less earlier. Older people, like other population groups, have to find ways to survive while the cost-of-living continues to increase. Working longer will work for many people provided that they have a job in the first place. Looking for a job so that you can keep working is another story. I think that being older, unemployable and broke can be overcome with some creative thinking. Some of those creative ways include downsizing your standard of living, living with other people, or becoming self-employed can be done by anyone so motivated. In addition, some cities have job or training programs for those over 55 that pay minimum wage for a part time commitment. This is a solution as long as you can work since work is said to keep you healthy. Self-employment, or a major business project is also desirable with the intention of making money for the future. A job is okay as long as you can do it, but what about when you can no longer work? That is why I mentioned a major, joint, business project to implement while you can still participate. Let me explain. If a few people could get together and start some type of enterprise, it would be beneficial for all. A group home or some type of franchise comes to mind. Pardon me for thinking outside of the box, but if you are older, unemployable and broke, you have to do something out of the ordinary to make a difference. Don't forget about the historical example of late bloomers who became successful later in life. Those include Alberta Hunter, Grandma Moses, and Colonel Sanders to name a few. Anything is better than being older, unemployable and broke.

Solutions to Unemployment

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 21:28:00 +0000

There are solutions to the unemployment crisis that we are all overlooking. Those with the most at stake must look at solutions to change their futures. I will talk about some of the solutions as I see it. Many people come to the conclusion that it is necessary to get more education. This is a good answer for many as long as the proper research is done. It is a waste of time and money to get training in a field that is on the decline. Look at the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov) job outlook data in addition to other research that you should do. The second solution to unemployment may involve moving to another part of the country where jobs are easier to find. Again, this strategy requires doing thorough research beforehand. Many details have to be worked out including housing, the actual job search and interviewing before you decide to move. A friend or relative living in the new location may be able to help with your research. Starting a business is solution number three and requires educating yourself on what this solution entails. Most cities have agencies dedicated to small business training and can prove to be an invaluable resource. Lastly, my final solution to unemployment is for the government to create job programs until the economy improves which requires Democrats and Republicans to agree on such an action. Most people cannot and should not wait for politicians to wake up. Put your future in your own hands.

When You Cannot Find Work

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 02:43:00 +0000

When you cannot find work after looking for about a year, you have to consider other options. You may think about obtaining additional training or becoming self-employed. Most people cannot afford to sit idle and wait to be rescued by a hypothetical government job program. With so many people in need of a job, it becomes a bigger challenge to find work. This is especially true for unskilled workers who may need to seriously look at alternatives to regular employment. Even though self-employment is a viable option for many, you have to be willing to work hard and be extremely motivated to own a business.
To get ideas for a business you can look at what you love doing, or natural talents that you possess. Also, look at the demands of the marketplace. Right now we know that health care is in demand and many new jobs are opening up. Look at your own neighborhood for ideas. By observing problems in your community, you could create an organization to address those needs and possibly get funding to carry out your plans.
If you think that money is an obstacle in your business venture, you are right. However, this obstacle can be overcome. Buy what you need only when you have to. Buy office equipment second hand. Even though under capitalized businesses can be endangered, do your homework on how other people have started businesses with little money. Talk to family or friends for financial support and to help with your business activities. When you cannot find work in this economy, you have to set aside time to grieve your loss. After that you have to draw from your inner strength to continue doing whatever it takes to move ahead. Do not give up on your future when you cannot find work because you can be successful in a new venture. Persistence is your friend on the road to life after unemployment.

The Unemployed Need Help

noreply@blogger.com (therhondagreer) — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 03:18:00 +0000

Unemployed people need some immediate, meaningful, help. Some of the help presently available is temporary as in unemployment benefits. No one out of work wishes to have a lifestyle change that includes handouts instead of a decent paying job. They say that doing the same thing and expecting different results is insanity. Well, let's stop the insanity and do something different for the millions of unemployed Americans. However, if nothing is going to be done by our government, that needs to be said also. In my opinion, government intervention for the job crisis is not too much to ask. After all, we spend a lot of money helping other countries solve their many problems. While it is true that the American standard of living, in many cases, is much higher than many foreign countries we still need help to improve our economy. In normal times, Americans are tough and can find ways to survive, but if no jobs are available, what can they do? As I have stated on many occasions, self-employment can be an option for some, but not everyone should be a business owner. Therefore, the long term unemployed must be given some special attention. Even if a person desires to start a business, real help should be available for them, too.
The unemployed need help as a group which would be a win-win for all of us. When people have money they spend it, and support businesses that, in turn, keeps people working.
Unless we are going to return to poor houses,the unemployed need some attention as soon as possible.