Q. I’m on a job hunt but have limited time off from work. I would never call in “sick” to go to an interview, so I’m trying to figure out how to pursue my job search. Any advice?
A. You are very professional and very honest not to job-hunt on company time. Potential employers will respect you for this. That’s why most of them arrange interviews to be held on weekends, evenings and early in the morning. Ask for that arrangement, explaining your commitment to your present employer. It’ll be a terrific reference for you!
Q. I’m 60 years old and plan to work as long as possible. I have a job but I don’t enjoy it. Is it worth taking some classes or getting some type of certification so I can get going in another direction? I can’t see staying in my current field if there is a possibility of finding something I could really enjoy for years to come. What do you think?
A. Good for you for realizing you have many productive years ahead. But what you’re contemplating is a major change, and I think you would do well to get one-on-one career counseling to help you ascertain your interests and abilities. Check out the career guidance center of your local community college for help in deciding what to do and what courses you might need.
Q. I had to chuckle at a recent letter in your column. The writer was upset because her “boss” looked at her at a community event but did not respond to her wave. Did you ever consider the boss might be nearsighted? I am, and if I take off my glasses and someone waves at me, I would not recognize them even if I appear to be looking in their direction. So people shouldn’t assume they’re being shunned. Wouldn’t it be easier on the ego just to assume they aren’t wearing their glasses?
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A. Yes, it would. And without my glasses, I can’t even hear anyone….
Q. You’ve often warned that some career marketers who promise to get you a job are under the scrutiny of state legal authorities. You mention they often charge as much as $14,000 upfront for their services. Do you see any problem with flat fees?
A. In this case, yes. They can be rip-offs because you often do not need every single service. The fees should be customized to your specific requirements, and the charges should be only for the services you use. That way, if you’re not getting the professional help or results you were promised, you can get out before all your money goes down the drain.
Q. My company has an annual fundraiser to benefit a local non-profit organization. It’s for a good cause, but I prefer to give my money elsewhere. Yet my employer insists all of us participate and hounds you if you don’t. Those who give a lot are invited to special catered lunches and get other rewards. And I’m sure those who don’t give are punished with low raises and few promotions. Do you think it’s right to feel so pressured? What about those of us with limited incomes who want to give to causes that we select, rather than our employer’s?
A. Too many companies unfairly pressure and intimidate employees to make charitable contributions so that the CEO and the company look good in the eyes of the community. It’s a challenge in these situations to have the courage of your convictions. But if you decide not to give, do not give. And don’t pay attention to all those catered luncheons and other rewards. Your reward is being true to yourself.
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Carol Kleiman’s columns also appear in Monday’s and Thursday’s Business sections. Hear her on WBBM Newsradio 780 at 6:21 p.m. and 10:22 p.m. Mondays and 11:20 a.m. Saturdays. Watch her “Career Coach” segments on CLTV. E-mail [email protected].