Is There Such a Thing As a Dead-End Job?

Photo by Becky Fantham on Unsplash

Is there such a thing as a dead-end job?  It all depends on how you define dead-end.  If you define dead-end as no opportunity for advancement, then you would have to say "yes."  However, in my estimation any job that will support you in taking care of you and your family, that is not illegal or immoral, can be honorable work not "dead-end."

In a society that places so much significance in title and large salary, people have been duped into thinking that is what is needed to be happy.  Of course, you know that is not true.  Although you do need enough to pay your bills and take care of your daily needs, you certainly do not need to be rich.

Service-related jobs can range from low-end to high-end pay rate depending on where you live and the nature of the service.  During this pandemic, jobs in your particular field may be hard to find.  If you are not benefiting from unemployment or you have used up your stimulas check, then you might be looking at a service-related job as a source of income.

Cashiers, servers, mechanics, and the list can go on and on are honorable jobs. In fact, during the pandemic they are essential jobs that some people will not do.  Service-related jobs make up a huge part of the economic framework in any country.

In my particular area of the country, there are many service-related jobs.  The signs are always going up for "help wanted."  If you aren't making ends meet, then give this serious thought.

It could be time for you to switch your channel of thinking at this time.  Waiting for the right job in your field may not come up for a long time. That so called "dead-end" job just might be the thing that will keep you afloat.

And, who knows...you might actually enjoy the job!

(If you are interested in starting a small cleaning account, my book "How to Start a Cleaning Business on a Poor Man's Budget" has some great tips.)

Changing Jobs Outside Your Comfort Zone

(c) Can Stock Photo / kmitu

             
                      
Changing jobs outside your comfort zone. Has this happened to you? Or, are you contemplating crossing over into another career choice or type of work you have never done before? Of course, if you have had formal schooling in a new career choice and you are waiting for the right job to come along then this article is not for you. Today, I am addressing those who might have a little experience in the new job but basically will need to learn a great deal more to keep the job.  So where to begin...

First, you can do it. Learning a new job skill on the job is extremely challenging.  You got it though! Let's look at some tips to keep you happy and sane:

• You have already demonstrated some job skills and no doubt a great attitude to get this job.  The employer sees in you the potential to take on this new job skill. They have already put faith in you by hiring you. Now, you just have to believe in yourself.
• Assess your strengths and weaker areas.  Work on them both. No need to talk about this. You know what they are. Excel in what you are strong in.
• Take clear and understandable notes that you can follow. Some people make a notebook with tabs to follow the details. This is crucial to a new job.
• At home, go online and see what learning tools are available free at this time that can add knowledge to your job. Yes, "You Tube" is a great place to start.
• When in doubt, don't be afraid to ask your boss for their advice as to the proper procedure in something you have never done before. Humility here shows you are willing to learn. Nobody knows everything.
• As time goes on, you may be able to find a fee-based course either in a class you can take nearby or online at night perhaps on the weekends. Some employers may help with this fee or pay it all.

Whatever you do don't give up. There will be times that you will be overwhelmed. This is normal. However, as time goes on you will get more comfortable with the accumulated knowledge and skills you are building daily. Remember, a strong building is done in layers. This is the same with your new job.  One day at a time.  Have faith in yourself and hit this job with a fresh and happy spirit of "can do."

Interviewing Skills that Will Land the Job

Can Stock Photo

Interviewing skills to land the job.  Right...you're thinking.  No doubt you have read many articles boasting about skills you need to land the job via the interviewing process.  However, I will tell you that I personally know someone who has excellent interviewing skills and most of the time lands the job. I have never seen anyone else get jobs so quickly.  Of course, that doesn't mean she accepts all of the offers.  Nevertheless, here are a few of her secrets she shared with me:

• Check out the company's web site before your interview. Read the "About Us" page. Sometimes the interviewer will ask you about what you know about the company. They are usually impressed if you can bring out an interesting fact or two.
  
• If it is an area of work or products you are not familiar with, then "Google" or "You Tube" away! You may be asked something about the nature of the business.
  
• Adjust your approach to the interviewer. You are usually told to be yourself. To a degree that is true. However, is the interviewer on the conservative side or are they blessed with a good sense of humor? Respond accordingly.
  
• Check out the reception area or the office you may be working around or in. What do the pictures tell you? Are there funny sayings on the wall? Are there family pictures on the desks? Observing the area around you, that is if you are not ushered to a barren conference room, will tell you a lot about the company atmosphere and the people running it. As such, relate in your conversation to something you have observed. For example, maybe you observed they like golf or fishing. If you like outdoor activities too, then let them know.  Pick familiar things to touch on in your conversation.

These techniques actually work. Incorporate one or all of the bullet points...and don't forget to relax before and during the interview. 

Employers - Step Up

                    (c) Can Stock Photo / sellingpix


Employers, step up.  That might sound a bit demanding.  However, so many times you only hear how accountable the applicant is as he goes through the interview process.  What do I mean?

You've sent out dozens of resumes.  You finally get called on an interview. You review what your best assets are along with your least desirable attributes.  You repeat in your mind questions you might have to answer. Of course, even worse is picking that interview outfit.  Not too formal, not too casual...hum?

Now what?  You hang on to the last words of the employer as you leave the interview.  Sometimes you get a good feeling...sometimes not.  NOW YOU WAIT.  This is the hardest part of the job-seeking-interview-scenario.  Generally speaking, employers say they will get back to you.  How long? Maybe a week or longer? You now hold your breath. A few weeks go by. No call. You obviously didn't get the job.

Here's where I believe many employers are lacking.  If you took time to be interviewed with a company, then the courtesy of letting you know you DID NOT get the job should be carried through. Over and over again I have seen employers fail to let the person know he did not get the job. They just drop the ball.  In fact, some employers will deliberately not return your phone call to avoid giving you the bad news. Not professional.

Being unemployed is not easy in itself.  Budget problems galore.  However, controlling your anxiety is the key.  The longer the applicant waits to hear yes or no, the greater their anxiety level.   It would be better if the employer knows the applicant is not a suitable fit to tell them as soon as possible. This reduces the anxiety level of the applicant while they can move on to another possible employment opportunity.

My message...employers everywhere...we are not wimps..just step up and let us know.

Sharpen Your Interviewing Skills

Photo - Pixabay.com

Oh the joys of going on a new job interview.  You know--the sweating palms and racing heart.  Can you prepare in a way that may shave off some of the fear and lack of confidence?  Yes.  Here is a link to a free video with additional training and information that may help you.  There are some great testimonials by people that have applied the advice in the video.  Let me know if this video helps you personally. The video is by Deniz Sasal. Here is the Landing Interviews Video.