As we make our way along this journey, I will tap into the many questions and comments from our reading base. I believe YOUR views, suggestions, and comments to be a most valuable resource; one that is all too often ignored in so many ways and venues. As a result, I will do my best to share everyone’s view. With this in mind, I introduce a reader by the name of Mark who offered a few comments and interesting insight regarding unemployment and our “OOOPS” story:
“Career updates…information…insight…dude!!! here’s your insight…10-15% unemployment, the dollar is devaluing by the minute, government is forcing small business (the backbone of the economy) out of business and those left will use any profits for the upcoming health care enema. You can better serve your constituents by encouraging them to re-learn as our grandparents did…plant a garden, save everything, and barter for basic necessities when the economy relives the ‘great depression’.”
Mark went on with a few words of inspiration: “The “OOOPS” report is invaluable as it gives just a glimmer of perspective to the newly hatched (graduated) job seekers. Advanced education attempts to prepare those to “do” particular jobs, but not necessarily groom them for appropriate etiquette in securing such jobs. This, coupled with the slow decline in societal manners makes Mr. Huffman’s Report (and gems like it) an asset in formulating a game plan to snare that elusive paying position, be it McDonalds or Goldman Sachs.”
Hey Mark, if you’re listening, good job but don’t get too carried away, after all, I’m the professional here (just in case you forgot). With intent on our side, let’s tackle a concept or two with insight of our own…
Yes, the unemployment rate is more than a concern and, as a small business owner, the life of small businesses and our economic stability are in jeopardy. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy yet it appears our government elect may have misplaced that bit of information. With increased taxes, more governmental control, and a myopic healthcare plan bringing more pain than relief, Mark’s idea of planting a garden and bartering may be the only sensible thing to do. Kudos for this guy!
As a proponent to advanced education, we are once again on the same page. This part deserves a second look… education does not mean employment. And more often than not, many graduates are not groomed to make the transition from theory to practice. For example, last year I spoke at ITT’s graduation ceremony (Tampa Bay campus) and saw the deer in the headlight reaction when I discussed how tough the world will soon become. Oh, reality can be a sour song! This got me to thinking, what are the colleges and universities teaching besides theory? Is academia concerned with our student’s career well-being or is academia concerned about the bottom line? Come to think of it, that’s another story in itself and one we will get into as we delve into career management.
Enough said for now as I must begin preparing for a trip to Indiana in three weeks. Okay, I am a slow packer so get off my baggage. Looking forward to hearing what you have to say and engaging in a battle of sorts. Keep progressing and know you have a team working with you at WestOrlandoNews.com so if there are topics or issues you feel need formal attention, send it via our comment box below. Until then, enjoy our cold front and see you at the game.
Danny Huffman, MA,CEIP, CPRW, CPCC, is an author, educator and business owner of Career Services International-Education Career Services. For more information please visit our Student-Centered Career Blog at www.educationcs.wordpress.com.
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My son is currently going to college. I’m concerned about what he’s going to do once he gets his degree. He’s studying liberal arts. I wonder if he’s going to have an easy path to a career once he is out of school. What can he do to start preparing?
Thanks for the articles!