Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
Are you looking for work?
Do you know someone looking for work? You are not alone. With unemployment at 13% in RI and 9.3% in MA, there are lots of folks out of work and looking.
There is a heavy population of those 40+ looking for work. There is also a significant number of recent college graduates out looking for work.
In the course of my own job search effort, one thing became evident: the power of we. Who you know is as important as what you know. By talking with each other, sharing our experiences, sharing what has worked or didn't work. By networking with each, sharing our connections, who knows who, we can help each other get a better connection to the next position.
With as many resumes being submitted for each job posting, the pile for the hiring manager is overwhelming. How do you get out of the pile? Your network!
A core group my connections who understand the "power of we" are working hard to put together the LaidOff Camp. The camp will facilitate the best practices of the job search effort. In one afternoon, over the course of four hours, you'll be able to participate in a session to help your own individual job search effort. Sessions on networking, using LinkedIn, interview tips, a practice interview session and others are being planned for this event.
This is a non-profit effort. The $10 charge will simply allow us to cover the facility fee and provide some refreshments during the afternoon.
For this small dollar cost, you will walk away with more knowledge, more connections and hopefully more confidence in taking the next step in your job search effort.
You should visit the LaidOff Camp website to register.
You should tell whomever you know that is looking for work about this event.
We are in this together and the 'power of we' can help us to success!
A sample of recent posts to the LaidOff Camp website:
There is a heavy population of those 40+ looking for work. There is also a significant number of recent college graduates out looking for work.
In the course of my own job search effort, one thing became evident: the power of we. Who you know is as important as what you know. By talking with each other, sharing our experiences, sharing what has worked or didn't work. By networking with each, sharing our connections, who knows who, we can help each other get a better connection to the next position.
With as many resumes being submitted for each job posting, the pile for the hiring manager is overwhelming. How do you get out of the pile? Your network!
A core group my connections who understand the "power of we" are working hard to put together the LaidOff Camp. The camp will facilitate the best practices of the job search effort. In one afternoon, over the course of four hours, you'll be able to participate in a session to help your own individual job search effort. Sessions on networking, using LinkedIn, interview tips, a practice interview session and others are being planned for this event.
This is a non-profit effort. The $10 charge will simply allow us to cover the facility fee and provide some refreshments during the afternoon.
For this small dollar cost, you will walk away with more knowledge, more connections and hopefully more confidence in taking the next step in your job search effort.
You should visit the LaidOff Camp website to register.
You should tell whomever you know that is looking for work about this event.
We are in this together and the 'power of we' can help us to success!
A sample of recent posts to the LaidOff Camp website:
- Session: How To Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile Fo...
- What do I wear to LaidOff Camp?
- This is "a performance-driven marketplace"
- Should we have a session on posture?
- How bad is unemployment in New England?
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
job search notes: This is "a performance driven marketplace"
Read the full article in AARP Bulletin Today.Last February, designer Michael Locascio started calling recruiters after he was abruptly laid off from a Chicago-area company. “Usually within a couple of weeks, I would find something, even just project-based work, but this time there was nothing or the pay was ridiculously low,” he says.
Locascio, 50, always disdained networking. “I felt like you’re always asking someone for a favor,” he says. But last summer, out of desperation, he joined St. Hubert Job and Networking Ministry, one of Chicago’s largest free job-support groups. “There was a no-whining policy,” he says. “You’re there to stay focused on the task.”
The ministry breaks participants into small groups of eight to 12 job seekers from different occupations who problem-solved, shared job leads and held each other accountable for progress. “That helped to keep me going—seeing others land jobs,” says Locascio.
LaidOff Camp is designed to provide the same type of experience as a networking group, compressed into one afternoon. You get to choose the sessions you need and make new connections at the same time.
Register for LaidOff Camp Attleboro/Providence here
This was originally posted on the LaidOff Camp website
Monday, October 26, 2009
Nail in the coffin for focus groups?
Focus Group Failure
The stories mention that brain scans are less convenient and more expensive than traditional focus groups for gauging audience reaction to a movie. The real story is that focus groups are simply incapable of providing the kind of specific and accurate feedback that we see by measuring brain activity and biometrics in real time. Focus groups may still have a purpose, but gauging how scary particular elements of a film are isn’t one of them.
Indeed, there are many points of failure for traditional focus groups. People may not say what they really think for a variety of reasons. Even when they try to be totally honest, people may not be able to articulate their experiences, rationales, or intentions.
What do you think?
job search notes: posture matters!
The body and mind connection is reinforced with another study:
So in addition to keeping good posture during your interview, it is also important to keep good posture when you are preparing your plan, when you are preparing your application to a job posting.
Researchers found that people who were told to sit up straight were more likely to believe thoughts they wrote down while in that posture concerning whether they were qualified for a job. On the other hand, those who were slumped over their desks were less likely to accept these written-down feelings about their own qualifications…Read the full post here.
So in addition to keeping good posture during your interview, it is also important to keep good posture when you are preparing your plan, when you are preparing your application to a job posting.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Yes, NE Revs win 1-0
Jeff Larentowicz hit a laser of a free kick that went through the hole in the defensive wall and then over the keeper before he could do much.
Next up is the playoffs against old nemesis, Chicago Fire.
Next up is the playoffs against old nemesis, Chicago Fire.
The stars have aligned - let's go Revs!
Down to the final game of the season, the NE Revolution can continue their streak of making the playoffs with a win or a tie on the road at Columbus this afternoon.
It seemed improbable with the multitude of possible combinations for playoff scenarios but the one major factor only a few articles actually mentioned with some importance was the fact that all the major contenders for the final playoff spots were playing on the road.
So while the hype for some teams was there (i.e. Toronto in particular) that they were playing on the road where they historically have not done well was the key.
Chivas lost on the road at Chicago on Thursday to set up the weekend. Chicago's win gave the Support Shield to Columbus and guaranteed a place for Chicago.
DC tied on the road at KC. Toronto lost on the road at NY (their last game at Giant Stadium). FC Dallas lost on the road in Seattle (where they have arguably the best 12th man). Colorado lost on the road at Real Salt Lake.
Now all the Revs need to do is win or tie to make it! The MLS playoff standings are here.
The Revs should win. They have a good road record. They are also starting the same team, and more importantly, a healthy team for the second game in a row. This is important. Missing Twellman and Albright all season, then losing Ralston for the last several weeks has deprived the Revs of their top players. Several others have spent time on the sideline with injuries but all will be ready today.
The final regular season game. On the road. Against the Crew.
I am looking for a good Revs win!
It seemed improbable with the multitude of possible combinations for playoff scenarios but the one major factor only a few articles actually mentioned with some importance was the fact that all the major contenders for the final playoff spots were playing on the road.
So while the hype for some teams was there (i.e. Toronto in particular) that they were playing on the road where they historically have not done well was the key.
Chivas lost on the road at Chicago on Thursday to set up the weekend. Chicago's win gave the Support Shield to Columbus and guaranteed a place for Chicago.
DC tied on the road at KC. Toronto lost on the road at NY (their last game at Giant Stadium). FC Dallas lost on the road in Seattle (where they have arguably the best 12th man). Colorado lost on the road at Real Salt Lake.
Now all the Revs need to do is win or tie to make it! The MLS playoff standings are here.
The Revs should win. They have a good road record. They are also starting the same team, and more importantly, a healthy team for the second game in a row. This is important. Missing Twellman and Albright all season, then losing Ralston for the last several weeks has deprived the Revs of their top players. Several others have spent time on the sideline with injuries but all will be ready today.
The final regular season game. On the road. Against the Crew.
I am looking for a good Revs win!
How bad is unemployment in New England?
The Wall Street Journal provides a nice interactive chart to pick five states to compare. I do subscribe to the Journal online edition and took a screen shot to share here.
Rhode Island leads the pack with 13%. Connecticut 9.8% leads Massachusetts with 9.3%. Vermont actually improved on the bottom 6.7% and New Hampshire passed it with 7.2%.
These are not great numbers to work with, hence one of the reasons why LaidOff Camp is so important. You need an edge to get your resume out of the pile that flows in every time some one posts a position for hire.
You can come to LaidOff Camp, share what you know, pick up tips and tricks from others and take the next step in your job search with more confidence!
This is something you CAN do.
Register for LaidOff Camp Attleboro/Providence here
Rhode Island leads the pack with 13%. Connecticut 9.8% leads Massachusetts with 9.3%. Vermont actually improved on the bottom 6.7% and New Hampshire passed it with 7.2%.
These are not great numbers to work with, hence one of the reasons why LaidOff Camp is so important. You need an edge to get your resume out of the pile that flows in every time some one posts a position for hire.
You can come to LaidOff Camp, share what you know, pick up tips and tricks from others and take the next step in your job search with more confidence!
This is something you CAN do.
Register for LaidOff Camp Attleboro/Providence here
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Links to follow
Today, I'll point you to some links that you should be aware of
Reducing carbon footprint on the Franklin Area Climate Team page
How bad is unemployment in New England? Check out the LaidOff Camp Attl/Prov page
Take action today! You can do it.
Reducing carbon footprint on the Franklin Area Climate Team page
How bad is unemployment in New England? Check out the LaidOff Camp Attl/Prov page
Take action today! You can do it.
Friday, October 23, 2009
job search notes: LaidOff Camp - Press Release Published
The LaidOff Camp Team has prepared and published the press release out to the MA and RI newspapers.
You can view the details here.
Note: the LaidOff Camp also added 'day of' registration tickets priced $5 more than the regular ticket purchased in advance. Hopefully, this will be an incentive to register early. At $10 for an early registration, you get a great deal. If you wait for the 'day of', the $15 charge shouldn't be an issue.
It should help us in planning for making this event a success for you!
You can view the LaidOff Camp website here.
You can view the details here.
Note: the LaidOff Camp also added 'day of' registration tickets priced $5 more than the regular ticket purchased in advance. Hopefully, this will be an incentive to register early. At $10 for an early registration, you get a great deal. If you wait for the 'day of', the $15 charge shouldn't be an issue.
It should help us in planning for making this event a success for you!
You can view the LaidOff Camp website here.
Congressman McGovern on Healthcare Reform
On Monday October 26th, the United Regional Chamber of Commerce will be sponsoring a Legislative Breakfast at Highland Country Club in Attleboro and we would like to invite you to join us. The keynote speaker will be Congressman James McGovern and the topic will be Healthcare Reform.
Registration begins at 7:30am and the program will begin at 8:15am.
The cost to attend is $20.
Please RSVP by e-mail or call the North Attleboro office at 508-695-6011
Thursday, October 22, 2009
The 5th pole?
The 5th pole? No the stopping point for the engineer driving a train with 5 cars, originally uploaded by shersteve.
No the stopping point for the engineer driving a train with 5 cars
There is also a 3 on a bench, a 4 on a trash barrel, and a 6 on the trash barrel just beyond the bench in this picture.
If these markers weren't visible, the train engineers could stop anywhere. With the markers in place, the train engineers will stop in the same spot fairly consistently.
Now you know why some folks stand in the same spot on the platform!
There is also a 3 on a bench, a 4 on a trash barrel, and a 6 on the trash barrel just beyond the bench in this picture.
If these markers weren't visible, the train engineers could stop anywhere. With the markers in place, the train engineers will stop in the same spot fairly consistently.
Now you know why some folks stand in the same spot on the platform!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
job search notes: time for encouragement!
How to Be an Extreme Encourager
Many years ago, when I first shared my dream of being a songwriter with one of my best friends, she knitted her brows and said, "Huh?"
I can't say I was deflated by all of the warnings that followed. After all, I had always been surrounded by this kind of "practical thinking." In fact, I probably shared my dream with her just so she'd talk me out of it.
During this fumbling stumbling time in my life, I met a man who became an unlikely best friend and mentor. He was a brilliant jazz musician, and he could do pretty much anything on the computer.
One night, after he performed at a local jazz club, we were walking towards my car. I told him my dream of being a songwriter. Without even blinking, he said, "Honey (he always called me Honey), you'd be a fabulous songwriter. That's perfect!" And he meant it.
At that moment, I felt like I was falling into a soft clean bed. I had never experienced such direct and truthful encouragement without a single "practical" warning attached to it. This friend set me free by offering one simple thing:
Encouragement.
Fast forward many years and successes and failures later. I'm surrounded by encouragers. I'm sure there are doubters around. But they don't register anymore.
Also, I have become an extreme encourager myself.
I've observed extreme encouragers. I've also recognized some traits that they all have in common. Here they are:
• An extreme encourager lives by example
The best encouragers are the ones who live it. Whether they're just getting started, or they're veteran risk-taking creativity-living wild-women - the encouragers are the ones who want a bigger life for themselves and are willing to "go there." This is why my jazz musician friend could simply offer encouragement when my other friend could not.
• An extreme encourager actively listens
Encouragers know that encouragement doesn't mean you just tell people to "buck up" or "get over it." They know how to listen. This means looking at the speaker, listening to her, setting agendas and judgments aside, and honoring the speaker as a wise soul.
• An extreme encourager avoids clichés
Avoiding clichés is actually a result of actively listening to someone. Being an extreme encourager doesn't mean that you blindly tell people "You can do it!" or "Let go of fear!" It's deeper than that. It's seeing the truth of the other person, especially when they cannot.
• An extreme encourager acknowledges the hooglie-booglies, but doesn't focus on them
We all have the hooglie-booglies. These are the voices that tell us we can't, or we shouldn't, or we'll fail, or we'll look stupid. An encourager doesn't focus on those voices because she knows they're trying to hook her. An encourager simply acknowledges that the voices are there and that you can't make them go away by arguing with them. An encourager knows that those voices aren't the truth. They only SEEM like the truth.
• An extreme encourager remembers that no one knows what's best for anyone else
An encourager knows that we are all wise and that sometimes we make choices that might not seem so wise. An extreme encourager calls out our deepest desires and then helps us see the thoughts and fears that hold us back.
• An extreme encourager accepts miracles, grace and mystery as the deeper truth
Extreme encouragers are often mystics of sorts. They know that the so-called "woo-woo" stuff is more real than the so-called "logical" stuff. They celebrate the divine as a simple fact of everyday existence and don't get caught up in the "prove it" mindset.
I can't say I was deflated by all of the warnings that followed. After all, I had always been surrounded by this kind of "practical thinking." In fact, I probably shared my dream with her just so she'd talk me out of it.
During this fumbling stumbling time in my life, I met a man who became an unlikely best friend and mentor. He was a brilliant jazz musician, and he could do pretty much anything on the computer.
One night, after he performed at a local jazz club, we were walking towards my car. I told him my dream of being a songwriter. Without even blinking, he said, "Honey (he always called me Honey), you'd be a fabulous songwriter. That's perfect!" And he meant it.
At that moment, I felt like I was falling into a soft clean bed. I had never experienced such direct and truthful encouragement without a single "practical" warning attached to it. This friend set me free by offering one simple thing:
Encouragement.
Fast forward many years and successes and failures later. I'm surrounded by encouragers. I'm sure there are doubters around. But they don't register anymore.
Also, I have become an extreme encourager myself.
I've observed extreme encouragers. I've also recognized some traits that they all have in common. Here they are:
• An extreme encourager lives by example
The best encouragers are the ones who live it. Whether they're just getting started, or they're veteran risk-taking creativity-living wild-women - the encouragers are the ones who want a bigger life for themselves and are willing to "go there." This is why my jazz musician friend could simply offer encouragement when my other friend could not.
• An extreme encourager actively listens
Encouragers know that encouragement doesn't mean you just tell people to "buck up" or "get over it." They know how to listen. This means looking at the speaker, listening to her, setting agendas and judgments aside, and honoring the speaker as a wise soul.
• An extreme encourager avoids clichés
Avoiding clichés is actually a result of actively listening to someone. Being an extreme encourager doesn't mean that you blindly tell people "You can do it!" or "Let go of fear!" It's deeper than that. It's seeing the truth of the other person, especially when they cannot.
• An extreme encourager acknowledges the hooglie-booglies, but doesn't focus on them
We all have the hooglie-booglies. These are the voices that tell us we can't, or we shouldn't, or we'll fail, or we'll look stupid. An encourager doesn't focus on those voices because she knows they're trying to hook her. An encourager simply acknowledges that the voices are there and that you can't make them go away by arguing with them. An encourager knows that those voices aren't the truth. They only SEEM like the truth.
• An extreme encourager remembers that no one knows what's best for anyone else
An encourager knows that we are all wise and that sometimes we make choices that might not seem so wise. An extreme encourager calls out our deepest desires and then helps us see the thoughts and fears that hold us back.
• An extreme encourager accepts miracles, grace and mystery as the deeper truth
Extreme encouragers are often mystics of sorts. They know that the so-called "woo-woo" stuff is more real than the so-called "logical" stuff. They celebrate the divine as a simple fact of everyday existence and don't get caught up in the "prove it" mindset.
• An extreme encourager knows that you can develop the needed character traits as you go
In other words, she knows you're ready now, even if you're not perfect yet! I shudder when I read advice that discourages people from trying something because of character traits "required" in advance. "You shouldn't blog if you're not disciplined." "If you don't have focus, you can't be a writer." Most of the successful people I know developed these traits as they went. I certainly did. Encouragers understand the huge potential for growth in each human, especially when someone begins to follow her heart.
In other words, she knows you're ready now, even if you're not perfect yet! I shudder when I read advice that discourages people from trying something because of character traits "required" in advance. "You shouldn't blog if you're not disciplined." "If you don't have focus, you can't be a writer." Most of the successful people I know developed these traits as they went. I certainly did. Encouragers understand the huge potential for growth in each human, especially when someone begins to follow her heart.
———————-
I'm grateful to the encouragers! And I'm grateful to be able to pass it on to others - either my friends, or to women in my retreats or my coaching clients!
Who has given you the encouragement you needed in your life? And do you pass it on now?
Who has given you the encouragement you needed in your life? And do you pass it on now?
Performer, songwriter, and creativity consultant Christine Kane publishes her 'LiveCreative' weekly ezine with more than 4,000 subscribers. If you want to be the artist of your life and create authentic and lasting success, you can sign up for a FRE*E subscription to LiveCreative at www.christinekane.com.
WANT TO SEE HUNDREDS MORE ARTICLES LIKE THIS ONE?
See Christine's blog - Be Creative. Be Conscious. Be Courageous - at ChristineKane.com/blog.
See Christine's blog - Be Creative. Be Conscious. Be Courageous - at ChristineKane.com/blog.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Men's Group - Senior Center at Franklin
What is social media all about?
That was the basic question. These gentlemen now know a little bit more about being social in the Internet world. It is not much different from meeting at the Post Office or barbershop and chatting with your neighbors. The biggest difference is you don't have to walk (or drive) to either the Post Office or the barbershop when it is open for business, you can go to the Internet, go to Facebook at any time during the day.
That was the basic question. These gentlemen now know a little bit more about being social in the Internet world. It is not much different from meeting at the Post Office or barbershop and chatting with your neighbors. The biggest difference is you don't have to walk (or drive) to either the Post Office or the barbershop when it is open for business, you can go to the Internet, go to Facebook at any time during the day.
The notes I prepared for them to take away are as follows:
The two best books to start with
- The Cluetrain Manifesto by Rick Levine, Christopher Locke, Doc Searls, David Weinberger
- Trust Agents by Chris Brogan, Julien Smith
1 - A Google account
provides email, RSS reader, alerts, photo place (Picassa), video place (YouTube), blogs (Blogger)
2 - Facebook http://www.facebook.com/
3 - Twitter http://twitter.com/
4 - LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/
Blogs to read
Seth Godin: http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/
Mark Hurst: http://goodexperience.com/
Tom Peters: http://www.tompeters.com/
Steve Sherlock: http://steves2cents.blogspot.com/ and http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
The three step process for social media
- Listen
- Learn
- Leverage
My thanks to Ken Norman for arranging this. My thanks to my current boss for allowing me to keep this prior commitment.
job search notes: proper tools
"When all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail." Abraham Maslow is created with this phrase.
In autumn, apples are fresh and ready for baking. I used to core them with a small knife. It worked but it was something to be careful with. When out shopping recently, I found an apple corer. Now, with the proper tool in hand, the job of preparing apples for baking was easier.
The importance of a tool kit can not be overstated.
What is in your job search tool kit?
Do you have tips and tricks that you have picked up along the way? Share them at the LaidOff Camp coming on November 7th.
In autumn, apples are fresh and ready for baking. I used to core them with a small knife. It worked but it was something to be careful with. When out shopping recently, I found an apple corer. Now, with the proper tool in hand, the job of preparing apples for baking was easier.
The importance of a tool kit can not be overstated.
What is in your job search tool kit?
- Do you have a resume, a cover letter, maybe a marketing plan?
- Do you have a network of connections?
- Do you have an updated and complete profile in LinkedIn?
Do you have tips and tricks that you have picked up along the way? Share them at the LaidOff Camp coming on November 7th.
Consider participating in the LaidOff Camp!Gain confidence in sharing what you know. Learn something new. Network with others.
And leave the event with more confidence, more knowledge, and a greater network behind you to take your next step in the job search!
Google Wave - Plain English
Google Wave is the latest tool to generate a whole lot of buzz mostly because it is by invitation only and yes, the invitations are limited.
This short and cool video presumably highlights 3.5% of what the Wave can do. I don't have an invitation so I'll need to wait to find out.
Enjoy!
Thanks to Alex Leavitt for the posting and analysis he did here:
This short and cool video presumably highlights 3.5% of what the Wave can do. I don't have an invitation so I'll need to wait to find out.
Enjoy!
Thanks to Alex Leavitt for the posting and analysis he did here:
Google Wave: Innovating Innovation at the Expense of Innovation
Monday, October 19, 2009
Logo transition
As Stop & Shop changes over from their standard logo to their new one, the mix of products will present some opportunities as shown here:
The standard logo is on the left. The new multi-color logo is top right. The new single reddish color logo is on the bottom.
Once you start a migration to a new logo, this type of situation is inevitable. How many products does Stop & Shop brand as their own? The number must be in high the hundreds. To coordinate all of them to be on the same timeline would be a rather costly event. It is costing them enough to make this transition as it is. I assume that they are using as much of the old stock as they can to minimize the cost of the migration.
Do you like the new Stop & Shop logo?
The standard logo is on the left. The new multi-color logo is top right. The new single reddish color logo is on the bottom.
Once you start a migration to a new logo, this type of situation is inevitable. How many products does Stop & Shop brand as their own? The number must be in high the hundreds. To coordinate all of them to be on the same timeline would be a rather costly event. It is costing them enough to make this transition as it is. I assume that they are using as much of the old stock as they can to minimize the cost of the migration.
Do you like the new Stop & Shop logo?
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Word for the day - Anomalous
Issued by The National Weather Service
Boston, MA
7:53 pm EDT, Sun., Oct. 18, 2009
... WINTRY PRECIPITATION TO GRADUALLY TAPER OFF THIS EVENING...
AN ANOMALOUS EARLY SEASON WINTER WEATHER EVENT IS UNDERWAY ACROSS A GOOD PORTION OF SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND AS A NOREASTER CONTINUES TO MOVE SOUTHEAST OF NANTUCKET. LIGHT TO OCCASIONALLY MODERATE SLEET... AT TIMES MIXED WITH SLEET AND RAIN... WILL GRADUALLY TAPER OFF AS WE HEAD TOWARD MIDNIGHT. UNTIL THEN... EXPECT LIGHT ACCUMULATIONS ON GRASSES AND VEHICLES. THE PRECIPITATION IS FALLING HARD ENOUGH IN SOME LOCATIONS TO ALLOW SNOW TO STICK TO ROADWAYS. THEREFORE... SLIPPERY TRAVEL IS EXPECTED THROUGH THIS EVENING... ESPECIALLY IN CENTRAL AND NORTHEAST MASSACHUSETTS.
–adjective
1. deviating from or inconsistent with the common order, form, or rule; irregular; abnormal: Advanced forms of life may be anomalous in the universe.
2. not fitting into a common or familiar type, classification, or pattern; unusual: He held an anomalous position in the art world.
3. incongruous or inconsistent.
Dogwood - two views today
All in a day in New England. In the rain this morning, I took some pictures of the dogwood as the leaves were starting to turn red.
In the snow this afternoon, I took a couple more pictures to show that in New England Mark Twain is still correct. He said, "If you don't like the weather in New England, just wait a few minutes."
Note that he didn't say it would improve. It is certain to change but not necessarily for the better.
Such is life in New England!
In the snow this afternoon, I took a couple more pictures to show that in New England Mark Twain is still correct. He said, "If you don't like the weather in New England, just wait a few minutes."
Note that he didn't say it would improve. It is certain to change but not necessarily for the better.
Such is life in New England!
NewBCamp - New England Inst Technology
Put geeks and newbies together in a room and you'll get a good conversation (yes, you will) and you'll also catch someone taking a picture of someone taking a picture.
I have seen the unconference model work well for a large group (PodCamp Boston 1, 2, 3 and 4) and smaller groups (NewBCamp 1, 2, 3; PodCamp Western Mass, and HealthCamp Boston). Today's group was small (approx 30) and the schedule became flexible to meet the needs of the participants. During the first sessions, some stayed with me to discuss the basics of blogging and social media. Another group went to a room up stairs to get into an advanced discussion of Linux. The second session has some stay in the main room while others went upstairs for a discussion on cloud computing (yes, why not go up for that kind of discussion?). Even the speed mentoring session slowed down as the initial questions had follow up questions and then evolved on in different directions on their own.
Everyone who attended seemed to have some new learning to take away with them. I saw folks who one minute said they could do a session turn around and add some significant point to a discussion. Everyone does have their specialties and when we get together to share them, amazing things happen!
I can hardly wait for the LaidOff Camp Attleboro/Providence. We take the unconference model to the unemployed. That should be a good learning, sharing and networking experience!
Stay tuned here for more information on future NewBCamps.
Tune into the LaidOff Camp blog for updates as the time gets closer to Nov 7th.
I have seen the unconference model work well for a large group (PodCamp Boston 1, 2, 3 and 4) and smaller groups (NewBCamp 1, 2, 3; PodCamp Western Mass, and HealthCamp Boston). Today's group was small (approx 30) and the schedule became flexible to meet the needs of the participants. During the first sessions, some stayed with me to discuss the basics of blogging and social media. Another group went to a room up stairs to get into an advanced discussion of Linux. The second session has some stay in the main room while others went upstairs for a discussion on cloud computing (yes, why not go up for that kind of discussion?). Even the speed mentoring session slowed down as the initial questions had follow up questions and then evolved on in different directions on their own.
Everyone who attended seemed to have some new learning to take away with them. I saw folks who one minute said they could do a session turn around and add some significant point to a discussion. Everyone does have their specialties and when we get together to share them, amazing things happen!
I can hardly wait for the LaidOff Camp Attleboro/Providence. We take the unconference model to the unemployed. That should be a good learning, sharing and networking experience!
Stay tuned here for more information on future NewBCamps.
Tune into the LaidOff Camp blog for updates as the time gets closer to Nov 7th.
FACT wins grant for cimate action event
Massachusetts Climate Action Network (MCAN) Executive Director Rob Garrity today announced the award of a Wolfe & Rita Climate Action Grant to the Franklin Area Climate Team (FACT), which is organizing activities in Foxboro and surrounding towns on Saturday, October 24th, an international day of awareness and education on global warming.
Using the grant and private donations, organizers are creating a “Cut the Carbon” hands-on demonstration to show how everyone can do his/her part to solve the growing problem of global warming. This will be just one of thousands of events for climate action on October 24th. The “Cut the Carbon” event will take place at the Foxborough Universalist Church, 6 Bird Street, on the Foxborough town common in the afternoon.
The International Day of Climate Action, (www.350.org) is focused on the number "350" because that is the number scientists say is the safe upper limit for carbon dioxide — measured in "Parts Per Million" -- in Earth’s atmosphere.
Charles DiPompo, a Foxborough resident involved in the FACT group, said “Since the planet currently has carbon levels close to 390, the limit of 350 parts per million is the number we need to get back to as soon as possible to avoid devastating climate change.”
The gathering will begin at 3:00 pm with an interactive display of 350 white ping pong balls and 40 black ping pong balls. This display will symbolize the urgent need to reduce the abnormally high concentration of carbon already in the atmosphere. Area residents are invited to pledge their willingness to help solve global warming by taking home one of 40 balls representing the desired reduction in levels of carbon. Paul Mortenson, member of the Foxborough Board of Selectmen, will be speaking.
Later in the afternoon, at 3:50 p.m. the bell of the Bethany Congregational Church, high in its steeple overlooking the town common will be rung 35 times as a call to action.
The events are part of an international effort, with thousands of organizations from over 100 countries around the world participating in local events to draw awareness to climate change and motivate citizens to action. All local events are open to the public at no charge and will be listed on the FACT blog at http:franklinareaclimateteam.blogspot.com. Additional events include: bell ringing at 3:50 pm at the St. Blaise Catholic Church in Bellingham, the Epiphany Episcopal Church in Walpole and the First Universalist Society of Franklin Church.
Bishop Bud Cederholm of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts asks the diocesan community to join him in observing an "International Day of Climate Action" on Saturday, Oct. 24, when events on town and city commons will be held to raise awareness and public advocacy toward reducing carbon emissions to slow global warming. "Go to www.350.org for more information about how Episcopal congregations can join ecumenical and interfaith groups in their communities in holding a powerful and prophetic event. What's needed is your leadership," Bishop Cederholm stated.
“October 24th is our opportunity to think globally and act locally,” DiPompo explained. “The 24th is fundamentally a day of hope for our future.”
“Wolfe & Rita Climate Action Grants provide MCAN local chapters with a supplementary source of funding to pursue climate action projects, education outreach programs and promote climate activism in their communities,” said Garrity, Executive Director of MCAN. “Since 2002 this grant program has provided MCAN chapters with more than $20,000 to pursue local projects reducing energy use, cutting carbon emissions, and educating people about climate change.”
Founded in 1999, MCAN is a growing coalition of 40 locally organized groups fighting the climate crisis in 70 cities and towns across Massachusetts. The network promotes carbon-reducing practices on a municipal and residential level, supports other MCAN chapters and allied organizations in their efforts to build a focused statewide movement and provides assistance to state policy makers as they adopt policies to reduce energy use and address the threat of climate change. To learn more visit www.massclimateaction.net.Additional information about the Franklin Area Climate Team can be found here
Note: I have joined the Climate Action Team and have been helping them incorporate social media into their communications.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Another lyricist found
Frequent readers know that I have a habit of rewriting improving some song lyrics. (If you are a new reader, you can check out the Foolish Music Songbook to view the samples).
I found someone else with the same inspiration and actually better talent for pulling this off.
You can view these two treatments by Paco Hope here
and here
I hope you enjoyed these!
With apologies to two of my favorite singers; Billy Joel and Paul Simon.
I found someone else with the same inspiration and actually better talent for pulling this off.
You can view these two treatments by Paco Hope here
and here
I hope you enjoyed these!
With apologies to two of my favorite singers; Billy Joel and Paul Simon.
Friday, October 16, 2009
5 for Friday
To help spread some good links today, here are 5 for Friday:
1 - great summary on what you should think about before you actually do it
3 - This one is close to home in the sense that I did go back to my former employer on a short term contract position hoping for an extension or a move to full time.
5 - Patti Digh has a series for "poetry wednesday" and this time features Naomi Shehab Nye reading a poem at the Dodge Poetry Festival. I was in the audience when this was recorded.
The Dodge is a biannual festival and although it was scheduled for 2010, word from the Dodge Foundation was that it would not be held. Alas the hue and cry of poetry lovers around rose and they have reconsidered. It will be held in Newark, NJ with details still to be provided. But it will be held in 2010. I plan on being there.
Will you join me for this festival of words?
1 - great summary on what you should think about before you actually do it
The 5 Essential Pillars of a Social Media Campaign
Another Thought On Politeness In Job Search. When To Say Thank You.
from Spin Strategy - Blog
3 - This one is close to home in the sense that I did go back to my former employer on a short term contract position hoping for an extension or a move to full time.
After Landing a Job, Continuing to Network
5 - Patti Digh has a series for "poetry wednesday" and this time features Naomi Shehab Nye reading a poem at the Dodge Poetry Festival. I was in the audience when this was recorded.
The Dodge is a biannual festival and although it was scheduled for 2010, word from the Dodge Foundation was that it would not be held. Alas the hue and cry of poetry lovers around rose and they have reconsidered. It will be held in Newark, NJ with details still to be provided. But it will be held in 2010. I plan on being there.
Will you join me for this festival of words?
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Celebrating explorers
My entry for this month wishing the Joyful Jubilant Learning blog a happy third birthday and celebrating explorers is up today.
You have my permission to click on over to explore!
You have my permission to click on over to explore!
NewBCamp - Saturday - New England Inst of Technology
NEWBCAMP AT NEW ENGLAND INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Date: October 17th, 2009
Time: 9am to 3pm
Where:
Cost: FREE (Donation of $10+ is helpful)
Registration is available here
Note: This link will bring you to the page with more information on the event and the link to register.
Date: October 17th, 2009
Time: 9am to 3pm
Where:
New England Institute of Technology, Student Union
2840 Post Road, Warwick, RI 02888
Cost: FREE (Donation of $10+ is helpful)
Registration is available here
Note: This link will bring you to the page with more information on the event and the link to register.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Your slip is showing!
I have complained about Blogger's lack of spell check for the title for some time. They spell check everything else, why not the title?
Spell check wouldn't have helped me in this situation. While "live reporting" the Franklin School Committee last night for Franklin Matters, one post initially went out as "lie reporting".
Some wags would say that was actually more correct.
I just think it was interesting.
Spell check wouldn't have helped me in this situation. While "live reporting" the Franklin School Committee last night for Franklin Matters, one post initially went out as "lie reporting".
Some wags would say that was actually more correct.
I just think it was interesting.
job search notes: from politeness to insanity
A current collection of good links to follow:
1 - From someone you know writing on the LaidOff Camp blog:
What do you think about this? Stepping up to this level I think is a great message, it may not work in some cases. And in those, it also may be a question for you: Do you really want to work in this formal business environment?
3 - Ronni Ann check on your level of sanity
What links would you share today?
1 - From someone you know writing on the LaidOff Camp blog:
The place for positive thinking
Why Politeness May Be Hurting Your Job Search
from Spin Strategy - Blog
What do you think about this? Stepping up to this level I think is a great message, it may not work in some cases. And in those, it also may be a question for you: Do you really want to work in this formal business environment?
3 - Ronni Ann check on your level of sanity
Is Your Resume Sure-Fire Proof of Insanity?
from Work Coach Cafe
What links would you share today?
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
job search notes: "As ye sow, so shall ye reap"
You see, the human mind is the last great unexplored continent on earth. It contains riches beyond our wildest dreams. It will return anything we want to plant.Read the full posting over at Kirk Weisler's Thought 4 the Day (T4D).
So only plant good & great seeds in your mind… and if some poison ones have slipped into the soil… yank em out and be sure to get the roots!
Consider subscribing to his almost daily email if you like this message and could use more of them. They do not always have a religious bent but they are thought provoking.
This is just as important a message for the job search as anything else you hear. Be positive and the positiveness will come through.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
LaidOff Camp Attleboro/Providence registration now open!
You can register for LaidOff Camp Attleboro/Providence via the Eventbrite link below.
Your cost - $10.
Why $10? The small charge covers the facility fee and provide for some refreshments during the afternoon.
Additional information on the event will be posted on the LaidOff Camp blog here
Your cost - $10.
Why $10? The small charge covers the facility fee and provide for some refreshments during the afternoon.
Additional information on the event will be posted on the LaidOff Camp blog here
Friday, October 09, 2009
job search notes: how do you get around behind the firewall?
From the job search front comes the following good links to follow:
The article above is timely. Behind the firewall at work, Twitter, Facebook, even the email within LinkedIn, is off limits. Switching from being outside to working inside has definitely posed some challenges in continuing to learn and share. My time needs to be optimized for those before and after work hours. Day time, the prime time, for most in the social network world, is generally off limits.
Do not take this as advocacy for finding ways around the firewall, but if you have this problem, how do you manage? Use your own device during lunch time?
Expand Your LinkedIn Reach (part 4 of 10)
The article above is timely. Behind the firewall at work, Twitter, Facebook, even the email within LinkedIn, is off limits. Switching from being outside to working inside has definitely posed some challenges in continuing to learn and share. My time needs to be optimized for those before and after work hours. Day time, the prime time, for most in the social network world, is generally off limits.
Do not take this as advocacy for finding ways around the firewall, but if you have this problem, how do you manage? Use your own device during lunch time?
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Hold the date - Nov 7th for LaidOff Camp
I am leading a team to bring the unconference peer-to-peer learning format to the unemployed. Hold the date, Saturday Nov 7th, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Who should attend?
- Are you unemployed
- Are you exploring entrepreneurial activities
- Are you currently employed and willing to help
If you answered yes to any one of these, then the LaidOff Camp is for you.
The peer-to-peer learning format of the unconference will
- facilitate sharing the tips and tricks we have all learned while looking for work
- provide additional networking opportunities
- empower the unemployed to take the next step in their job search with more knowledge and confidence
Additional details and the registration process will be available by the end of this week.
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
NewBCamp - October 17th - Registration open
NEWBCAMP AT NEW ENGLAND INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Date: October 17th, 2009
Time: 9am to 3pm
Where:
Cost: FREE (Donation of $10+ is helpful)
Registration is available here
Note: This link will bring you to the page with more information on the event and the link to register.
Date: October 17th, 2009
Time: 9am to 3pm
Where:
New England Institute of Technology, Student Union
2840 Post Road, Warwick, RI 02888
Cost: FREE (Donation of $10+ is helpful)
Registration is available here
Note: This link will bring you to the page with more information on the event and the link to register.
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
FCC Mandates disclosure
FCC mandates disclosure for bloggers receiving freebies/payments
from Moving at the Speed of Creativity by Wesley Fryer
My disclosure statement has been updated a couple of times since I started writing online over 5 years ago. The most recent update occurred with the short-term contract position I accepted on 9/28/09. As circumstances change, the disclosure will be updated.
What should presenters do in this multitasking world?
A great question has been tossed out there for discussion:
New Presenter and Learner Methods and Skills
- What should we do as presenters in this multitasking world?
- Should presenters coach (or ban) people away from multitasking?
- As a presenter, how do you deal with the backchannel effectively? (I personally can't present and work with the backchannel at the same time.)
- How does the backchannel fit with effective note taking?
- What could a presenter do in 2 minutes at the start of a presentation to get this all to work out well?
- What should we do as learners?
- What if the presenter is not making effective use of our time?
- What have you seen that worked really well?
- What didn't work well? What would you do to change it?
- Any tools that make this better?
Monday, October 05, 2009
job search notes: good links
Here are some good links to follow to help add to your job search toolkit.
1 - I would add to this that while it is good to target to meet certain folks in your area of interest, it is also just as important to be prepared to talk with them about something that you can help them with. In the course of the conversation, be prepared to share something that should help them. Be subtle about this. Don't just walk up and shove your card in their face.
2 - Have you heard of the JOLT? I hadn't
3 - Despite the depressing numbers from JOLT, there will be opportunities for an interview so you should be prepared. One way is to follow Tim writing about Interview Week:
1 - I would add to this that while it is good to target to meet certain folks in your area of interest, it is also just as important to be prepared to talk with them about something that you can help them with. In the course of the conversation, be prepared to share something that should help them. Be subtle about this. Don't just walk up and shove your card in their face.
Who Do You Want to Meet?
from Networking Insight
2 - Have you heard of the JOLT? I hadn't
Read the full article on JOLT here:The September JOLT told every reader that the unemployment picture was far from rosy, and the trend appears to remain headed downward. You can read the details at the Government site, available at http://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/jolts.pdf . The information indicates that we have 2.4 million total job openings in the USA and we have 15.1 million unemployed people. This simple math is at the fingertips of every newscaster and politician, yet nobody wants to say the reality. If every available job, from fruit picker to CEO, was filled today we would have nearly 13 million unemployed people, not to mention the marginally employed and underemployed. Another way of saying the reality is that for every job there are seven unemployed people.
Do you need a JOLT?
3 - Despite the depressing numbers from JOLT, there will be opportunities for an interview so you should be prepared. One way is to follow Tim writing about Interview Week:
During INTERVIEW WEEK you will hear about the finer points of interviewing strategy. Points to help you during the interview day. And I hope to hear that you've found a few new ideas.
Welcome To Interview Week. Are You Ready?
from Spin Strategy - Blog
Sunday, October 04, 2009
Soccer rules refresher
The referees decisions (or lack there of) can decide the outcome of a game. This have become more evident as the season progresses while watching the MLS games following the exploits of our New England Revolution. The Revs have had their share of injuries, resulting in loosing six "front-line" players for several periods; a couple of them basically for the entire season. So while playing under stress, it doesn't help to get calls against you. In those moments it seems like the opponent has an extra person on the field.
Perceptions created during the game can be incorrect. How so? The US Soccer Association has a weekly review of the referees decisions. They will highlight several instances of either good calls or bad calls for instructional purposes. With video clips, diagrams, and rules of the game to reference, they will walk through a game situation step by step to show how and why the correct call should have been made for this situation.
The most recent week is reviewed here. I find it great to see the details laid out like this. It really helps to learn the game and hence be a better informed fan of the game and team!
Perceptions created during the game can be incorrect. How so? The US Soccer Association has a weekly review of the referees decisions. They will highlight several instances of either good calls or bad calls for instructional purposes. With video clips, diagrams, and rules of the game to reference, they will walk through a game situation step by step to show how and why the correct call should have been made for this situation.
The most recent week is reviewed here. I find it great to see the details laid out like this. It really helps to learn the game and hence be a better informed fan of the game and team!
Saturday, October 03, 2009
commuter sherku
With the return to work this week, I am back to riding the commuter rail and I have been looking at some familiar sites anew. The time on the train provides time to ponder and condense the thoughts, images, perceptions to sherku.
Feel free to click on over to quiet poet to read the sherku!
Feel free to click on over to quiet poet to read the sherku!
Friday, October 02, 2009
failure is an inevitable part of the game
Start the process of tinkering. Don't put your hand on a hot burner (please), but do start a new web site, a new marketing campaign, or a new Web community. Why? The answer, you will quickly come to realize, is that, with everything you decide to do, "it's so crazy that it just might work." Understand that failure is an inevitable part of the game, but that the chance of success is much greater the more often you roll the dice. You shouldn't fear it; you should embrace it.The quote is from Trust Agents by Chris Brogan and Julian Smith.
Reflections on the night train
The return to a 'routine' provides an opportunity for observation.
What's different?
What's new?
The insides and backsides can tell a good stories when we take the time to look.
What will you find when you take time to look today?
World-Record Kite Event
World-Record Kite Event: "'The New England Children’s Foundation (NE Children’s Foundation), bringing the technology community together to raise funds for grassroots charities benefiting the children of New England, today announced an officially-sanctioned attempt at breaking the Guinness world record for most kites flown simultaneously. The goal of the fundraising event is to simultaneously fly 1,000 kites, to break the current Guinness World Record of 967, established in Germany during August 2008.The family-friendly event will be held on October 11, 2009 and hosted by Patriot Place.'
http://www.patriot-place.com/article.aspx?id=2042
http://www.patriot-place.com/article.aspx?id=2042
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