NomoreDramaQ1015
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Joined: Dec 20, 2010 14:26:32 GMT -5
Posts: 48,024
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Post by NomoreDramaQ1015 on Jul 20, 2015 13:33:15 GMT -5
I absolutely loved the volunteer work. What I have a low tolerance for is co-workers (or volunteer superiors) who just make life difficult due to power
That's everywhere though. You are not going to find a job where everyone holds hands and shares a Coke.
You might find an environment where you aren't dealing with these people face to face, or perhaps not dealing with as many. But if you are going to have a job you are going to have to learn to deal with these people. You'll never have a career if you leave every time you encounter an ahole at work.
And you definetly don't want to own your own business if you can't tolerate assholes. You'll encounter those from the government regulatory agencies you have to work with to the customers. And you can't quit since you own the business.
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NancysSummerSip
Community Leader
Joined: Dec 19, 2010 19:19:42 GMT -5
Posts: 36,649
Today's Mood: Full of piss and vinegar
Favorite Drink: Anything with ice
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Post by NancysSummerSip on Jul 20, 2015 13:48:35 GMT -5
It's important to find your passion and work at it; I get that. And when you've done something for a long time that you hate, it's important to get away from it; I get that, too. If time and money aren't the pressing issues, you have the good fortune to be able to experiment. Maybe work two very part-time gigs to see what you like. I don't have that luxury (I work to keep my medical insurance), so when I do make the move, I will also have some dealbreakers in my decision. You have some as well, but yours are the kind that you can counterbalance - i.e. not wanting to work with idiots versus loving to work with the pubic. I have to consider two dealbreakers: insurance and travel distance. Aside from those, I'm flexible. My strengths are that I am a fast thinker and an extremely good organizer; throw me in the midst of the worst chaos, and I am at my best. I'm good with idiots (well, I've learned to keep my mouth shut and vent here, anyway) and I've dealt with the dregs of society in previous jobs. So nothing most humans do or say really throws me.
Put what you're good at in your resume, be honest with an interviewer about why you were out of the workforce for that time period and play up what you did and learned in that time period. Put those thoughts on notecards and memorize them. Don't feel about about being out of the working loop.
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zibazinski
Community Leader
Joined: Dec 24, 2010 16:12:50 GMT -5
Posts: 47,907
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Post by zibazinski on Jul 20, 2015 13:56:41 GMT -5
Have you thought of staging homes or interior design or style consultant?
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Deleted
Joined: Sept 28, 2024 17:00:54 GMT -5
Posts: 0
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Post by Deleted on Jul 20, 2015 14:00:01 GMT -5
Have you thought of staging homes or interior design or style consultant? Dealing with home owners, realtors and the public. Not great fun. Also, you have to be available as there is always drama or a crisis of some sort to deal with. Its not a part time job. IMO
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zibazinski
Community Leader
Joined: Dec 24, 2010 16:12:50 GMT -5
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Post by zibazinski on Jul 20, 2015 14:04:44 GMT -5
I know only one stager and one interior decorator. It can be as stressful or as la di da as you want it to be.
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Deleted
Joined: Sept 28, 2024 17:00:54 GMT -5
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Post by Deleted on Jul 20, 2015 14:05:51 GMT -5
I know only one stager and one interior decorator. It can be as stressful or as la di da as you want it to be. If you are a la di da stager, odds are you aren't that successful.
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zibazinski
Community Leader
Joined: Dec 24, 2010 16:12:50 GMT -5
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Post by zibazinski on Jul 20, 2015 14:07:43 GMT -5
She doesn't need to make a lot of money. She wants to be happy
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phil5185
Junior Associate
Joined: Dec 26, 2010 15:45:49 GMT -5
Posts: 6,412
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Post by phil5185 on Jul 20, 2015 14:08:55 GMT -5
I've seen a huge generational gap in job & business selection goals. 1. The 65 year old who donned his dirty coveralls and cap and showed up at 7:00 A every morning for 40 years in a noisy factory to run a punch-press machine didn't do it to "feel fulfilled', entertained, to have flex-time, to feel empowered, "at-one" with his bosses, yada - he did it to earn a living for himself and his family. As for businesses - how about septic tank cleaning? Not much competition, you need a $50k small tanker truck, rubber coveralls, boots, gloves, mask & filter. Ie, provide a service that DIYs won't/can't do. 2. The under-35 generation wants to be fulfilled (as long as it doesn't interfere with their schedules). And their choices of 'small business' is usually min wage work (building crafts, owning a boutique, a coffee shop, a pizza shop) as opposed to a needed service. I actually saw one strip mall that had three buffalo wings sport bars, two were on the same street only two doors apart. Two have since failed - but who thought that was a good idea?? Maybe they work for the septic tank pumper now? Not saying that one goal method is better than the other - just don't expect the same results.
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moneymom
Familiar Member
Joined: Mar 26, 2014 11:33:25 GMT -5
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Post by moneymom on Jul 20, 2015 14:09:45 GMT -5
What I do have -- I am the best damn employee anyone can ever have LOL. And even though I have low self esteem in getting a new job, I do realize my former employers make it known that I was an excellent employee and go well beyond the call of duty and it was a big loss when I left them.
What are the best sites to search these days? I've been using indeed but it hasn't been all that great for me. Any others?
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Ombud
Junior Associate
Joined: Jan 14, 2013 23:21:04 GMT -5
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Post by Ombud on Jul 20, 2015 14:21:45 GMT -5
I am the best damn employee anyone can ever have LOL. And even though I have low self esteem in getting a new job, I do realize my former employers make it known that I was an excellent employee Yeah. Those 2 thoughts are diametrically opposed to each other
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emma1420
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 28, 2011 15:35:45 GMT -5
Posts: 2,430
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Post by emma1420 on Jul 20, 2015 14:23:24 GMT -5
What I do have -- I am the best damn employee anyone can ever have LOL. And even though I have low self esteem in getting a new job, I do realize my former employers make it known that I was an excellent employee and go well beyond the call of duty and it was a big loss when I left them. What are the best sites to search these days? I've been using indeed but it hasn't been all that great for me. Any others? Industry specific websites usually have the best leads. We have a local job listing service that lists jobs in non-profits. The non-profits pay to post, but the cost is minimal, and they tend to get people who only want to work for a non-profit (my company uses it for lower level positions). My question to you is do you want a career or do you a job? In your first post you indicated that you wanted a career, but the rest of your posts have indicated that you want a job. The two are different.
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GRG a/k/a goldenrulegirl
Senior Associate
"How you win matters." Ender, Ender's Game
Joined: Jan 2, 2011 13:33:09 GMT -5
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Post by GRG a/k/a goldenrulegirl on Jul 20, 2015 14:28:21 GMT -5
I get this. I'm in a similar boat, but was home full-time for 14 years and part-time for the last 3. (Never my plan, life happens when you are making other plans.) I have a professional degree, but due to family commitments at home, I did not maintain my credentials. (No need to beat me down on that one -- I flog myself continually so I am good there. ) And, even if I still had my professional credentials, I am not sure that is where my strengths lie and the schedule demands (60+ hour work weeks are typical) are not something I am interested in anymore. I, too, am good with people. But, since I can also prioritize tasks, juggle many balls, and put out fires like no one's business, I'd also excel at backroom/support stuff. I get stoked by making a difference whether it is in a transaction or in the "making the world a better place" arena. I've done the retail route, but that is a fast track to nowhere, frankly. I am open to corporate offices/small businesses/non-profits/start-ups/entrenched institutions, etc. I want a long-term job/career. I need the money. I need the intellectual stimulation. I need a reason to get dressed every day and leave the house. The kids are getting ready to launch to college. I have no more reason/excuse to stay home. I need to start the next chapter of my life so I don't hover over my kids as they start their own lives. Like Moneymom, I just don't know where to start. I tell everyone and anyone that I am looking for a job. I search Craigslist almost daily, but most of the ads are for Uber these days and Uber sounds as bad as retail. Anyone want a 55-year-old bright, capable, intelligent, loyal worker who can write well, speak well, dress appropriately, and arrive on time?
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milee
Senior Associate
Joined: Jan 17, 2012 13:20:00 GMT -5
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Post by milee on Jul 20, 2015 14:31:18 GMT -5
Anyone want a 55-year-old bright, capable, intelligent, loyal worker who can write well, speak well, dress appropriately, and arrive on time? Heck, yeah. Where do you live?
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GRG a/k/a goldenrulegirl
Senior Associate
"How you win matters." Ender, Ender's Game
Joined: Jan 2, 2011 13:33:09 GMT -5
Posts: 11,291
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Post by GRG a/k/a goldenrulegirl on Jul 20, 2015 14:33:34 GMT -5
Anyone want a 55-year-old bright, capable, intelligent, loyal worker who can write well, speak well, dress appropriately, and arrive on time? Heck, yeah. Where do you live? A little north of you. By about 1500 miles, or so. For the right position, though, I can absolutely manage the commute.
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The Captain
Junior Associate
Hugs are good...
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Post by The Captain on Jul 20, 2015 14:38:27 GMT -5
I get this. I'm in a similar boat, but was home full-time for 14 years and part-time for the last 3. (Never my plan, life happens when you are making other plans.) I have a professional degree, but due to family commitments at home, I did not maintain my credentials. (No need to beat me down on that one -- I flog myself continually so I am good there. ) And, even if I still had my professional credentials, I am not sure that is where my strengths lie and the schedule demands (60+ hour work weeks are typical) are not something I am interested in anymore. I, too, am good with people. But, since I can also prioritize tasks, juggle many balls, and put out fires like no one's business, I'd also excel at backroom/support stuff. I get stoked by making a difference whether it is in a transaction or in the "making the world a better place" arena. I've done the retail route, but that is a fast track to nowhere, frankly. I am open to corporate offices/small businesses/non-profits/start-ups/entrenched institutions, etc. I want a long-term job/career. I need the money. I need the intellectual stimulation. I need a reason to get dressed every day and leave the house. The kids are getting ready to launch to college. I have no more reason/excuse to stay home. I need to start the next chapter of my life so I don't hover over my kids as they start their own lives. Like Moneymom, I just don't know where to start. I tell everyone and anyone that I am looking for a job. I search Craigslist almost daily, but most of the ads are for Uber these days and Uber sounds as bad as retail. Anyone want a 55-year-old bright, capable, intelligent, loyal worker who can write well, speak well, dress appropriately, and arrive on time? I think a recruiter once told me that over 2/3'ds of the open positions never make it to advertisements. Do you have contacts in a network? Are there businesses around you that have full parking lots ( = doing well may be hiring - call HR). Put it out to your friends/contacts that you are in the market. DH's company is always hiring for help desk support. It's shocking how many folks are out there who cannot interact with stressed out customers.
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milee
Senior Associate
Joined: Jan 17, 2012 13:20:00 GMT -5
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Post by milee on Jul 20, 2015 14:39:11 GMT -5
IMHO, there's a good business opportunity here. Forming a service that places and refers former SAH parents into re-entering the workplace.
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midjd
Administrator
Your Money Admin
Joined: Dec 18, 2010 14:09:23 GMT -5
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Post by midjd on Jul 20, 2015 14:41:39 GMT -5
True. You might want to ask yourself some of the common interview questions ("where do you see yourself in 5 years?" etc.) to help you get a handle on what you really want out of your job/career search. It sounds like you certainly have the skills to succeed in whatever industry you choose, but if you don't have a clear direction, you probably won't interview well.
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Knee Deep in Water Chloe
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Post by Knee Deep in Water Chloe on Jul 20, 2015 14:44:02 GMT -5
I think you need to figure out why you've tied your self-worth to having an important job.
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hoops902
Senior Associate
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Post by hoops902 on Jul 20, 2015 14:45:46 GMT -5
My take after reading a few posts is that OP doesn't actually care about having a career, her desire is to feel proud of what she's doing and proud to tell others what her job is. Her desire for "career" seemed to be driven off of being ashamed for having a specific degree but not using it to it's full potential (Like, I have a doctorate in physics, I'm currently folding sweaters at the GAP). Seems like she'd be fine with a job that wasn't really going anywhere further as long as she enjoyed it and felt proud of it.
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ArchietheDragon
Junior Associate
Joined: Jul 7, 2014 14:29:23 GMT -5
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Post by ArchietheDragon on Jul 20, 2015 14:54:18 GMT -5
IMHO, there's a good business opportunity here. Forming a service that places and refers former SAH parents into re-entering the workplace. For you, or the Op?
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happyhoix
Distinguished Associate
Joined: Oct 7, 2011 7:22:42 GMT -5
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Post by happyhoix on Jul 20, 2015 14:54:56 GMT -5
Way back in ancient days, when I was first out of college, I got a copy of "What Color Is your Parachute' - the first few chapters do a really good job of identifying your strengths and weaknesses and helping you narrow down what kind of work you want to do. Also building confidence.
It is difficult to find a job that lets you work part time/ on a school schedule (with summer's off). My little sister wants a full time career type job but won't work past 3 PM and needs school holidays and summer vacations to be open and the only work she's found that allows that is a teacher at a day care center that allows her to take time off if she can find a replacement. She complains all the time that she doesn't get paid that much, but she takes at least 6 weeks off a year and never has to work overtime - so she's trading a high paying job for one that allows her to be super flexible.
Is shift work something you might consider?
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milee
Senior Associate
Joined: Jan 17, 2012 13:20:00 GMT -5
Posts: 12,344
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Post by milee on Jul 20, 2015 15:02:22 GMT -5
IMHO, there's a good business opportunity here. Forming a service that places and refers former SAH parents into re-entering the workplace. For you, or the Op? Me, if I weren't fairly busy with current business and quite happy with my leisure time.
Given what she's posted, I don't think OP should try to run a business.
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quince
Senior Member
Joined: Sept 23, 2011 17:51:12 GMT -5
Posts: 2,699
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Post by quince on Jul 20, 2015 15:06:49 GMT -5
Wanting interaction with people + being burnt out on assholes.... Good luck with that.
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moneymom
Familiar Member
Joined: Mar 26, 2014 11:33:25 GMT -5
Posts: 624
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Post by moneymom on Jul 20, 2015 15:09:38 GMT -5
I've seen a huge generational gap in job & business selection goals. 1. The 65 year old who donned his dirty coveralls and cap and showed up at 7:00 A every morning for 40 years in a noisy factory to run a punch-press machine didn't do it to "feel fulfilled', entertained, to have flex-time, to feel empowered, "at-one" with his bosses, yada - he did it to earn a living for himself and his family. As for businesses - how about septic tank cleaning? Not much competition, you need a $50k small tanker truck, rubber coveralls, boots, gloves, mask & filter. Ie, provide a service that DIYs won't/can't do. 2. The under-35 generation wants to be fulfilled (as long as it doesn't interfere with their schedules). And their choices of 'small business' is usually min wage work (building crafts, owning a boutique, a coffee shop, a pizza shop) as opposed to a needed service. I actually saw one strip mall that had three buffalo wings sport bars, two were on the same street only two doors apart. Two have since failed - but who thought that was a good idea?? Maybe they work for the septic tank pumper now? Not saying that one goal method is better than the other - just don't expect the same results. I'm not under 35 LOL.
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moneymom
Familiar Member
Joined: Mar 26, 2014 11:33:25 GMT -5
Posts: 624
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Post by moneymom on Jul 20, 2015 15:16:19 GMT -5
I get this. I'm in a similar boat, but was home full-time for 14 years and part-time for the last 3. (Never my plan, life happens when you are making other plans.) I have a professional degree, but due to family commitments at home, I did not maintain my credentials. (No need to beat me down on that one -- I flog myself continually so I am good there. ) And, even if I still had my professional credentials, I am not sure that is where my strengths lie and the schedule demands (60+ hour work weeks are typical) are not something I am interested in anymore. I, too, am good with people. But, since I can also prioritize tasks, juggle many balls, and put out fires like no one's business, I'd also excel at backroom/support stuff. I get stoked by making a difference whether it is in a transaction or in the "making the world a better place" arena. I've done the retail route, but that is a fast track to nowhere, frankly. I am open to corporate offices/small businesses/non-profits/start-ups/entrenched institutions, etc. I want a long-term job/career. I need the money. I need the intellectual stimulation. I need a reason to get dressed every day and leave the house. The kids are getting ready to launch to college. I have no more reason/excuse to stay home. I need to start the next chapter of my life so I don't hover over my kids as they start their own lives. Like Moneymom, I just don't know where to start. I tell everyone and anyone that I am looking for a job. I search Craigslist almost daily, but most of the ads are for Uber these days and Uber sounds as bad as retail. Anyone want a 55-year-old bright, capable, intelligent, loyal worker who can write well, speak well, dress appropriately, and arrive on time? You've said it SO much better than I did LOL. Good luck to you
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giramomma
Distinguished Associate
Joined: Feb 3, 2011 11:25:27 GMT -5
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Post by giramomma on Jul 20, 2015 15:17:17 GMT -5
Are you close to a college, tech school or something that does career services? Look into that. One of my friends did a one day career thing. Took all sorts of tests and was told what she should do when she grows up.
I might also suggest a temp agency.
Or looking into being educational support through a school system. I have a friend that does that. She's a sub. She gets $12 or so an hour for working with special needs kids. One of the few job duties you can do without a teaching degree. If she feels like working, she works. If she's too busy, she doesn't.
What about school bus monitor or crossing guard. Crossing guards make like $14/hour. Obviously, school year based. I would think helping kids to not get run over is fairly important...
I get your need to work. DH is more the same. Working part time has been a great thing for him, and for our family.
I'll be glad when I can be done working. I only have 15-20 years left. That's when the rest of my life can begin. I have too much else to be doing with my life other than working.
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moneymom
Familiar Member
Joined: Mar 26, 2014 11:33:25 GMT -5
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Post by moneymom on Jul 20, 2015 15:20:39 GMT -5
My take after reading a few posts is that OP doesn't actually care about having a career, her desire is to feel proud of what she's doing and proud to tell others what her job is. Her desire for "career" seemed to be driven off of being ashamed for having a specific degree but not using it to it's full potential (Like, I have a doctorate in physics, I'm currently folding sweaters at the GAP). Seems like she'd be fine with a job that wasn't really going anywhere further as long as she enjoyed it and felt proud of it. Yes, Well said.
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Deleted
Joined: Sept 28, 2024 17:00:54 GMT -5
Posts: 0
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Post by Deleted on Jul 20, 2015 15:47:33 GMT -5
She doesn't need to make a lot of money. She wants to be happy WHO needs money to be happy? Some people just need a decent title.
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zibazinski
Community Leader
Joined: Dec 24, 2010 16:12:50 GMT -5
Posts: 47,907
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Post by zibazinski on Jul 20, 2015 16:19:28 GMT -5
I want BOTH!!!
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Robert not Bobby
Well-Known Member
Joined: Jan 29, 2013 17:45:55 GMT -5
Posts: 1,392
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Post by Robert not Bobby on Jul 20, 2015 16:22:24 GMT -5
You guys, I'm terrified. I am really wanting a job. No, more than a job, a career. I have a degree in business and have worked for over 10 years in a low paying "coordinator" position. I left 3 years ago to become a stay at home parent. Financially we are ok. My child is in elementary and I have been volunteering my time in several positions. I'm burned out on that and want a real income. I have extremely low self esteem when it comes to applying for jobs. I also refuse to apply for anything that I don't think I will really enjoy long term so that heavily limits me. I have no idea what i want to do. I know I've always had the dream of being a business owner. I originally wanted to be a restaurant owner (yes, I know the stats..). Then I tried out management in a similar industry and when I saw all the lawsuit issues it turned me off. I still have the desire to be a business owner and I have space at home to work from home. I'm totally open to other careers. But I've been out of the workforce for 3 years and don't want to return to what I did and just feel so damn lost. How do I get out of this rut? Sometimes I just hope a position will fall in my lap and I'll live happily ever after. EDIT: here's the kicker... I only want to work part-time. Oh.. and I'd love to be property flipper, but the thought of losing $$ scares me. You kind of seem messed up...do you know what you want?
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