Shannon Fisher on workplace sexual harassment When in doubt, dont

Shannon Fisherbei on workplace sexual harassment When in doubt, dontShannon Fisher on workplace sexual harassment When in doubt, dontWith the recent societal focus on workplace sexual harassment in America, many people are asking what the line is between friendly workplace banter and behavior that could be perceived as anywhere from overly flirtatious to downright predatory. Men and women alike seem unsure what is acceptable in interaction with their coworkers, especially when happy marriages often stem from workplace romances.Following are some simple guidelines.Unacceptable BehaviorTouching a coworker/client/customer other than during a handshake or high five.This includesPutting your arm around a parts shoulder.Putting your arm around someones waist.Putting your hand on a persons back while walking.Standing close to someone and brushing against him/her.Hugging a person (unless you have a close friendship outside of the office and if you have to wonder whether youre close enough f or a hug, you arent).Touching and holding someones hand across a table.Putting your head against aleidher persons head or shoulder across a table or sitting next to him/her.Straightening a persons clothing or hair. (Helping someone with their outer coat is polite and can be done without touching them.)Grabbing that person anywhere on his/her body.Making sexual or suggestive gestures toward or about a person.Making a pass at someone or trying to kiss him/her.Giving gifts of a sexual nature, even as gag gifts.Making sexual comments or verbal innuendo. (This includes talkingtoa person andaboutthat person to others in the workplace.)Asking for sexual favors. (Asking for favors in exchange for professional advancement is especially egregious).Sending someone material of a sexual nature via email or text.Leering up and down a persons body in a sexual manner (or at all).Asking someone to spend time with you outside of the workplace if (s)he has previously turned down a social invitation.Pe rfectly Acceptable BehaviorCompliment a person on his/her work and ideas.Compliment a person on his/her wardrobe. There is a difference between a genuine compliment and a sexual compliment. The delineation is very clear.You look very nice today. is always acceptable.That color looks good on you is always acceptable.That dress really shows off your curves. is under no circumstances is acceptable.Wow, loo-king gooood is under no circumstances acceptable.And How YOU doin? is acceptable if said in a buddy-buddy tone - but it is never acceptable in a Joey-from-Friends tone. You know the difference. Everybody knows the difference.Keep jokes with coworkers/clients/customers PG-13 rated, whether in public or in private.Only factor someones gender or sexual orientation into workplace discussions when specifically seeking or assessing the opinions of different demographics for workplace purposes (focus groups, advertising targets, etc.).Develop genuine platonic friendships over time with peo ple with whom you form a bond. Socialize outside of the office if both people wish to do so.There is only one circumstance under which it is in any way appropriate to have romantic interaction with a coworkerIf you are single and available, looking for a serious relationship, have real feelings for a coworker who is also single and available, and you are 95% sure the object of your affection is also romantically interested in you, you might want to say something away from the office to gauge his/her level of interest. Even this borders on inappropriate behavior, but sometimes people do meet the love of their life at work or at a work function - and sometimes it is worth taking a risk.What you say and how you say it are extremely important because sometimes what you THINK has been an expression of romantic interest on a persons part might have been wishful thinking and analysis on your part.When you are in a public place but having a private conversation (restaurant, cafeteria, walk ing down the street - never while traveling or alone in a room with the person), say something friendly along the lines of, You know, youre really great. I like you a lot. If (s)he responds in kind, ask in a non-creepy or suggestive manner if they mean romantically - or say in that same manner something like, We should date.If the person is interested, (s)he will respond with a resounding, Yes, I do. or, Yes, we should If the persons response is negative, nebulous, or noncommittal, take it as a no and do not try again.Important ExceptionsIf you are in a position of authority over someone, do not suggest a romantic relationship. Period. No good can come of it.If you are single and available but only seeking casual encounters, look outside of your workplace.If you are married, do not make advances toward anyone in your professional life. (Ideally, dont make a pass at anyone other than your spouse, but for the purpose of these guidelines, well leave it at workplace advice.)If you are unsure whether a coworker is romantically interested in you, do nothing. If you cant discern whether (s)he is sending you signals of romantic interest, assume there is no interest. (There are countless anecdotes about people who misinterpret a friendly gesture as a romantic overture when someone is merely being warm and friendly or making a joke to a group and happened to be looking at a specific person when they winked to indicate they were kidding.)Unless you have that confirmed interest and are single and available, looking for a serious relationship, and have real feelings for the (also single and available) coworker who has expressed interest, keep every professional interaction you have completely platonic and appropriate. If you have confirmed mutual interest, proceed with great caution.Workplace romances can lead to great happiness, but they must begin carefully and respectfully - with a refusal to engage in sexual behavior of any kind until interest has been confirmed and re-affirmed - sober, and with clarity.Is the potential for a lasting romantic relationship worth taking the risk of a workplace romance gone awry? Sometimes, yes. But if the odds are long that a relationship will be long lasting, it is usually not worth the risk of damaging a professional relationship or office environment or - in the worst cases - negatively impacting someones career, including your own.When in doubt, dont.Shannon Fisher is a radio talk show host and a social and political commentator. This article first appeared on Quora.

Alternate Job Search Websites for Retail

Alternate Job Search Websites for RetailAlternate Job Search Websites for RetailIf you dont want to get lost among the millions of people competing for a retail job, then you might want to consider job search websites other than the big ones (CareerBuilder, Monster, Indeed, etc.). These alternate job sites are often less populated and therefore, less competitive. There are many internet job search websites specifically focused on retail industry employment, but they can be overlooked and underutilized just because theyre not household names. Listed here are job websites where you can find job openings that may not be listed on the major job search engines. The best job search resource for you is the one that will connect you to a job thats perfect for you. Your right fit retail job could be waiting for you on any of the websites listed below, so its worth your time to check them all out. If you cant find a good fit in one of these nine places, you may want to seek professional help - from a recruiter, that is. All of the websites are free to use, and some have paid premium options available. This list is arranged in alphabetical order - not in order of popularity, size, or any type of evaluation of the quality of the services. ?All Retail Jobs All Retail Jobs has hourly and management job search listings from more than 12,000 retail employers and recruiters. You can get email notifications when jobs are posted matching your saved search specifications. You can also post your resume on the site. Careers in Grocery Careers in Grocery allows you to search grocery industry job listings from clerk to general manager in all 50 states. The site encourages you to create a profile and upload a resume to make it easier to apply and for employers to find you. You can also choose to get notified by email when new job listings match what youre looking for. Write a Killer Cover Letter Your cover letter is often your first impression on an employer - so, make it coun t, and make sure its tailored to the retail job that you want. Start by checking out tips for writing retail cover letters, as well as samples of ideal ones. Groove Job Groove Job focuses on part time jobs, student jobs, teen jobs and hourly jobs, many of which are in the retail industry. It also covers part-time and seasonal jobs. iHire Retail iHire Retail posts nothing but retail job openings, some of which are exclusive to their website. As of June 2019, it was adding more than 5,520 jobs daily. Theres also a premium edition available for $35 per month, which includes many additional features, such as resume match scoring, featured applicant status, and a dedicated career advisor. National Retail Federation (NRF) Job Board The NRF Job Board is offered by the worlds largest retail trade association. You can search for retail jobs by keyword, job title, location, job function, and more, and you can also sign up to receive job alerts. Create a Standout Resume A strong re sume will help you stand out in a large schwimmbecken of candidates. Be sure to check out sample retail resumes and writing tips to find out what to include to help you get noticed. Oodle Retail, Merchandising Wholesale Jobs Oodle aggregates job listings from small and offbeat classified sites. It offers both national and local searches. Retail Gigs Retail Gigs focuses exclusively on retail, merchandising, and purchasing jobs. You can sign up to have job listings emailed to you that match your desired job title and location. Simply Hired Simply Hired aggregates retail listings from several different medium-sized job search sites. It offers a salary estimator and the ability to easily search for jobs near where you live. Work In Retail Work in Retail focuses specifically on retail jobs at all levels and it can send you job recommendations as they are posted. Its created in partnership with the NRF Foundation, which is the philanthropic arm of the NRF. Ace Your Interv iew Prepare ahead for your interview by reviewing some common retail interview questions and their ideal answers.

Heres Why You Shouldnt Have 2 LinkedIn Profiles

Heres Why You Shouldnt Have 2 LinkedIn ProfilesHeres Why You Shouldnt Have 2 LinkedIn ProfilesAsk Amanda Can I Have 2 LinkedIn Profiles?Two LinkedIn profiles may seem like a good idea, but heres why it will trip you up.Q Do I need two LinkedIn profiles for two careers?My experience is diverse enough at this point that I could go in a couple different directions with my next career move. Should I create a LinkedIn profile for each of these paths while Im looking for work?While it may seem like a good idea to have two LinkedIn profiles if youre considering two very different career paths after all, we advise folks to create multiple versions of their resume if theyre interested in pursuing job opportunities in completely different fields the rules are a bit different when it comes to LinkedIn.LinkedIns platform was designed to help professionals all around the world connect with one another, exchange valuable information, find new job opportunities, etc.But the true power of your Lin kedIn profile is derived from the sheer size of your network. The more people with whom you connect on LinkedIn, the easier it will become to find and connect with others who can help you reach your career or job-search goals. If you create two separate LinkedIn accounts, then you are dividing your connections between two profiles and diluting the strength of your LinkedIn network.In addition, managing and maintaining your LinkedIn profile takes time and energy. Looking for a new job is already a full-time job do you really want to double your workload on LinkedIn?If this wasnt reason enough, it is against LinkedIns User Agreement to create two profiles. While youre allowed to publish your profile in more than one language, creating more than one profile for the same individual is against the rules. If another computer-nutzer notices you have multiple accounts and reports you, LinkedIn reserves the right to shut down all of your profiles without notice.If you have two careers, youl l need to decide which one should take the lead on your LinkedIn profile. You can work in information that supports either career, but realistically, one of those careers will need to take the back seat on LinkedIn.Create a summary for your LinkedIn profile that marries both of your careers into one cohesive narrative. As youre brainstorming the content for this section of your LinkedIn profile, think about what led you to pursue both of these career paths. Are there aspects that both fields have in common that you find particularly interesting? Do they require you to rely on any of the same soft or hard skills?Not sure how to consolidate your two LinkedIn profiles or just feel a little overwhelmed when it comes to your LinkedIn profile in general? We can help Check out our LinkedIn-writing services today.Amanda Augustine is a certified professional career coach (CPCC) and resume writer (CPRW) and the resident career expert for Talent Inc.s suite of brands TopResume, TopCV, and Top Interview. On a regular basis, she answers user questions like the one above. Have a question? Take a look at her career advice or ask a question on her Quora page.Recommended ReadingResume and LinkedIn Profile Writing How Different Should They Be?How Do You Contact Recruiters on LinkedIn?Heres How to Get Noticed on LinkedIn

Cafeteria-Style Benefit Plans Give Employees Choices

Cafeteria-Style Benefit Plans Give Employees ChoicesCafeteria-Style Benefit Plans Give Employees ChoicesAre you looking for a way to customize your benefits plan to meet the needs of your individual employees? A cafeteria-stylebenefits plan may be the best way to go. This custom-selection option is an employee benefits plan that allows your employees to choose among a variety of offerings to create a benefits package that best meets their needs and those of their family. Cafeteria-style plans provide a special exception to federal income tax rules that apply to an employees earnings. In a cafeteria-style plan, employees are allowed to select among various nontaxable benefits and cash. Benefits to Employees In a cafeteria-style plan, an employee generally receives a certain number of dollars from the employer to purchase particular elements of a benefits plan. This enables employees to purchase benefits, such as health insurance, with pretax dollars. Cafeteria-style plan options c an include various levels of health insurance plans and otherbei insurance options such as short term and long term disability insuranceorgroup term life insurance. Other options may include 401(k) plan contributions for retirement, dependent care assistance, adoption assistance plans, and contributions to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). Not All Employees Want the Same Benefits This type of customized menu provides employees with mora take-home pay and several additional benefits. The advantage of a cafeteria plan is that employees can choose what most makes sense for them. For example, a young employee with no health problems might opt to spend his or her cafeteria plan dollars on a minimal health plan. An employee with four family members might choose to spend their cafeteria dollars on a comprehensive health plan with a lot of coverage. The employee without a family, on the other hand, might choose to spend his or her benefit dollars investing in a retirement plan. Regulat ion of Cafeteria-Style Plans Cafeteria plans are governed by Section 125 of the Internal Revenue Code.No matter what the goal of the employers cafeteria plan, the plans are named after Title 26, Section 125 of the United States Code where cafeteria plans are specifically excluded from the calculation of gross income for federal income tax purposes. Section 125 plans allow employees to contribute pretax dollars into the plan. Contributions toward plans are not subject to federal, state, or social security taxes. The contributions are placed into an account the employee can use to pay for allowed expenses (e.g., premiums for health insurance, dependent care costs, medical supplies). Since no federal, state, or social security taxes are taken out and the dollars are not included as gross income, the employee saves anywhere from 27 percent to 50 percent on these purchases. When the Employees Choices Exceed the Amount of Money In a typical cafeteria plan, an employee might choose op tions that exceed the number of dollars allowed by the employer. In these cases, the employee pays a part of the premium for his or her chosen benefits, so the cost to employers is lower. For example, an employee with health problems or an employee who is age 55 and order, might choose to buy up to a more comprehensive health plan that includes the services they need. Working with Benefits Professionals In all cases, working to provide employees with a cafeteria-style benefits plan deserves the assistance of a knowledgeable benefits plan professional who can advise the employer about the various options. Given the complexity of the U.S. tax code and the unpredictable changes in laws, employers should always seek the assistance of a professional. You want to make sure your plan is legal and that it benefits both employee and employer. Do Your Homework The web abounds with sites offering help and advice about customized benefits plans but employment laws and regulations vary b y state and country, so no website has the definitive answer. When in doubt, always seek legal counsel or assistance from the state, federal, or international government resources to make certain your legal interpretation and decisions are correct.

STARS Book Second Edition Debut

STARS Book Second Edition DebutSTARS Book Second Edition DebutSTARS Book Second Edition Debut February 28, 2019Exciting New Update Stars are Lined Up for Military Spousesfor Federal Careers, 2nd EditionSpecial price $6.50 per book for 50 or morePostage is $20 per 25 books.Total 50 books $365.00

The Fundamentals of Computer Science Student Resume No Experience Revealed

The Fundamentals of Computer Science Student Resume No Experience Revealed Computer Science Student Resume No Experience - the Conspiracy Guarantee the skills are related to the job that you desire. You may not have much work experience to include, so concentrate on personal and professional skills and your educational background. From time to time, a particular experience feels relevant and you would like to add it. As most of your IT experience is via your training, you will need to really showcase your learning. Leadership doesnt have to be in a job to have the hiring managers interest Computer Science graduates may have a multitude of careers. For instance, some students may include things like internships or part-time positions, which arent in precisely the same sector or just like the role theyre applying for, but that could be advantageous for their application. Most students are simply as confused as you are. Our resume builder will provide you with tips and example s on how best to compose your resume summary. With some important data in the perfect order, everyone can create one. Make a list of absolutely whatever youve done that may be useful on a resume. Not all sites offer such a function. Regardless of what resume structure you select, if youre able to quantify your experience, do it. If you cant clearly communicate the work which you do, you wont be thought of as a strong candidate, even when you come up with the right solution. If youre able to add 2 or 3 to each experience, then youll demonstrate that youre a goal-oriented individual. It is very important to remember you need to only add skills that are pertinent to the position youre applying for. The Appeal of Computer Science Student Resume No Experience The applicant also indicates they can manage the pressure of being responsible for a gigantic budget. If, naturally, you dont understand how to format a resume correctly, you could save yourself time by utilizing an onlin e resume creator which does the task for you or download a resume example with the fundamental structure already set. When you make an application for work, you make your very first impression via your curriculum vitae. You only have to be real, add your informations and you may use the job add to compose your document. Simply take the skills that you have, and show how they translate into success where you opt to apply them. Everyone is aware of what networking is, but not everybody is good at doing it. Put simply, to discover ways where its possible for you to create your experience and exhibit your abilities. You may display your work history, but in addition fill in mora space by talking about your abilities and other knowledge youve got. The men and women in the department appear to have fun together. Therefore, you dont have a good deal of experience in your resume. Your experience for a cashier at Burger King isnt likely to help you receive work at an IT consulting f irm. Generally, computer science-related occupations pay pretty well and, because of the increasing demand for skilled computer scientists, very good salaries are sure to remain for many years to come. Actually, employers are often looking specifically for the people who are able to show they have tech abilities but didnt major in computer science or a different tech-related field. In addition, it is possible for you to learn about technology careers and search for computer science jobs on Monster. Furthermore, you can look for computer science jobs on Monster. A technical resume, therefore, should showcase your curiosity and urge to engineer. In case you have any questions, please dont hesitate to contact me. As stated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the variety of computer and data research scientist jobs is anticipated to grow 11% during the next decade, which is faster than average. You dont require a 4-year education to begin Research assistants harness their underst anding of computer science and statistics to create sense of huge quantities of information. To attract attention, you will need to compose a fantastic computer science resume. You just need to select the appropriate computer science resume template which goes with your profession. Bear in mind, its important to create your resume stand out. The career fair is on September 14, which might mean that you dont have a lot of time to produce a resume. So maybe you really want to observe some resumes.

The Hidden Gem of Resume Writing Tips Star Method

The Hidden Gem of Resume Writing Tips Star Method Thus, such selection will certainly help you in planning your resume performance, well ahead of time. To assist you in getting started, weve got an extensive library of resume templates that are totally free to download. Each resume format has their own set of benefits and disadvantages for various kinds of job seekers, so make koranvers to select wisely. For instance, a business resume template will take into consideration the positional requirements of a company, then provide the format that will serve the candidates individual requirements. Want to Know More About Resume Writing Tips Star Method? The STAR strategy to putting together a CV stipulates a good framework to work to, and provides an effective means of succinctly demonstrating your qualities and the way they are sometimes put to practical use at work. If you are a newcomer to government job applications using STAR can actually help you begin. Why Almost Everythin g Youve Learned About Resume Writing Tips Star Method Is Wrong The strain of losing a job is simply compounded whenever you do notlage possess a strong, updated resume. Attempt to know the market of the organization youre asking for work, and identify what type of difficulties they could be going through. When it has to do with finding work, you most likely already know you ought to tailor to your resume to the job announcement. Submitting an amazing CV with your work application is just the very first step in the practice of landing your next dream job, but should you get your CV wrong your likelihood of succeeding could be foiled before your abilities have the opportunity to generate a great impression. The Basics of Resume Writing Tips Star Method Spend some time matching your qualifications to the job to make certain youre including the proper keyword phrases and techniques. Behavioral questions are not the same as other kinds of interview questions since they call for a true example from your prior work experience that indicates you possess a particular skill. Examples Dividing experience into professional and entrepreneurial sections when you have significant knowledge in every area. Learn about the three sorts of skills youll be able to highlight and the way youre able to incorporate them into your resume. The Key to Successful Resume Writing Tips Star Method Its also important to think about the type of work you genuinely wish to be hired to do. Try to remember, HR people have plenty of resumes to examine and not lots of time. If youre asked about a troublesome expertise at work, thats not a terrible thing. The majority of the times your prior work experience will be the absolute most significant part the resume, so put it at the top. You should have the ability to identify what profile they are seeking and the way the info ought to be presented. There are many unique tactics to organize the info on your resume, but the excellent old reverse chronological (where your latest experience is listed first) is still your best option. Analyze job ads You will see tons of helpful info on job ads.

How to Make a Career Change in Your 30s

How to Make a Career Change in Your 30sHow to Make a Career Change in Your 30sThe Playbook for a Career Change in Your 30sEverything you need to know to leave your current job with confidence - and departure a new career that youll love.I have spent 4 years getting a degree in accounting, then built a career as an auditor at a mid-sized firm. I am thinking about leaving my job to become a nurse. Is this completely irresponsible and insane? Is it too late? Or should I follow my heart and go for it, even if Im in my 30s?You might think that questions like this are an exception, elend the norm and you would be mistaken. No matter which numbers you turn to, theres no denying that todays professionals are changing jobs (and careers) frequently. A survey from the University of Phoenix reveals that nearly three-quarters of professionals in their 30s are interested in changing careers. So, youre definitely not alone And, despite common misconceptions, you may actually have a leg up compare d to brand-new college grads in that field.For one, you have an established track record and a professional history, and have demonstrated character traits and work habits. The employer may see your experience elsewhere as a bonus and an opportunity for cross-pollination of best practices. After all, great ideas are often born at the intersection of seemingly unrelated fields and experiencesOn the other hand, a complete career change in your 30s carries a fair amount of risk, too. You may need additional training. In the case above, combining nursing school with a full-time job in accounting would be impractical. Shell need a plan for covering her living expenses and tuition without a reliable paycheck from her current job. And, once you land a job in your new career, you may experience a pay cut while you work your way up the ranks. So, what should you do?Begin with whyFor one, you will have to face the Why? question from your concerned parents, surprised co-workers, and befuddled friends. You may as well spend some time crafting a good answerIn all seriousness, being able to crystallize your why isnt for other peoples benefit its for you. Yes, there is less stigma these days about changing careers, but thats not an excuse to take it lightlyPerhaps you didnt get to choose your current career but instead followed that path at the urging of your well-intentioned family members. Maybe youve developed a strong interest in an emerging field that didnt exist as a career option when you were in school. Or maybe youve had a major change in perspective. Find and verbalize your reason why, because you will need to tap into its power when you inevitably hit some road bumps.Understand the trade-offsLets start by busting a few common stereotypes about a career change in your 30sNo, its not too late to try something new. You have another 3040 productive years ahead of youNo, your age wont be an automatic turn-off for your future employers. Many employers actually prefer c andidates with an established track record.No, its not a complete waste of the money youve invested in your education so far, or the time youve spent pursuing your first career. Many skills and experiences are transferable.Having said that, it would be dishonest to imply that you wont have to make some sacrifices. If you have to go back to school, you might have to give up the steady paycheck from your current job. You need to think through your lifestyle choices and financial reserves, as well as consider ways to pay for additional education.RelatedHow Does Money Come in During a Career Change?You must also be prepared to start closer to the bottom of the ladder once employed in your new field of choice. For example, if the person above leaves their current job as an accounting manager to become a nurse, they cant expect to step into the role of a charge nurse immediately.Trade-offs shouldnt automatically discourage you from pursuing your dream but they should force you to stress- test your willingness and ability to endure hardship. After all, rose-colored glasses wont help you when you step off the cliff with no safety net to catch youMaster the languageYou may not have spent years in your new field (yet), but it doesnt mean you know nothing about it. Many principles and approaches youve learned so far will remain relevant and useful. You may just need to dress them up in new clothesBegin by reading job descriptions and LinkedIn profiles for professionals in the industry that interests you. Be sure to make note of any keywords that you see over and over again and research any terms you dont fully understand. If your new field has any thought leaders who host a podcast or have a blog, it could be a fantastic entry point for picking up the language of the craftConnection is everythingWhen you are changing careers in your 30s, effective networking isnt just something you do if and when you feel up to it. Being able to connect to the right people may spell the difference between launching a fantastically successful second career and languishing in job motherboard limbo.Dont know anyone in the new field? Not to worry Thats what your second- and third-degree connections are for Tap into who you already know, ask for introductions, and you will be amazed at how connected the professional world really is.One word of caution Its wise to remember that networking works best when it benefits everyone. Take some time to reconnect with your network and to add value before you ask for favors.RelatedLost Touch? How to Reconnect With People in Your NetworkLeverage your experience and strengthsWhen you are starting something completely new, its easy to feel like a first-grader surrounded by high-school grads. Dont get intimidated Yes, you have much to learn and you already know so much.If you are struggling with imposter syndrome, set aside a couple of hours to do a full inventory of your professional experience so far. Focus on transferable skills, experiences that have taught you something valuable, and ways you can contribute to your new field. This may be difficult at first, but trust that the dots will connect.Everything you need to know about making a career change in your 30sA career change in your 30s is possible. Todays professional world is full of opportunities that didnt exist two decades ago, and its also a lot more accepting of those who chose to begin something new. However, its wise to acknowledge that you are no longer in your 20s. Yes, you have plenty of options in front of you, but you may also have financial and personal responsibilities that cant be renegotiated.Pursuing a new professional track means taking on a risk. Go in with eyes wide open. Do your research, lean on your network, and prepare a financial cushion that will buffer the inevitable discomfort while you build up your traction.Finally, enlist the help of experts, especially when it comes to your new resume. A successful job search will likely require a complete overhaul of how you present your career, skills, and accomplishments on your resume.Looking to make a career change and want to ensure your resume is up to the task? Submit it now for an expert review on usOur career advice expert, Amanda Augustine, recently shared her tips on career change in your 30s with Create Cultivate. Click here to read the full article.Recommended ReadingLooking to Change Careers? First, Make a Skills ListTips to Help Determine If Its Time for a Career ChangeCareer Quiz Is It Time for a Career Change?

How Addressing an Alcohol Problem Now Can Boost Your Professional Success Later

How Addressing an Alcohol Problem Now Can Boost Your Professional Success Later How Addressing an Alcohol Problem Now Can Boost Your Professional Success Later If youre looking to get ahead in your career, going to rehab for an alcohol problem is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. Time spent in inpatient rehab for any mental health problem - especially for a substance addiction, which can carry a heavier negative stigma than other mental health conditions - is not exactly a big resume-builder.What many people dont know, however, is that addressing an alcohol problem now can have apretty significant professional payoff in the future.A Harvard study followed several hundred men over the course of 55 years, monitoring their drinking habits. The researchers found that problem drinkers who successfully achieved abstinence from alcohol and were able to sustain their recovery experienced the following positive long-term outcomesBetter physical and psychological healthGreat er enjoyment in their marital and family livesOccupational successIt may go without saying that these three very important positive outcomes are mutually reinforcing. Better physical and psychological health, or a higher level of happiness in a relationship with a significant other, naturallyhas an impact on job performance and professional satisfaction.How Long-Term Alcohol Rehab Improves Quality of Life and Employment ProspectsSuch findings regarding the link between successful long-term recovery from alcohol andjob success align closely with my own more anecdotal observations as a clinician working with alcoholics in early recovery. Those first days and weeks of abstinence can be fraught with anxiety, depression, and other uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. As time progresses and clients stick with an individualized plan of medical and clinical care, they report higher levels of self-acceptance, greater connectedness to others, and reductions in withdrawal-related symptoms of dis tress.Moreover, in the first three months after rehab, many clients report they are successfully employed in a job or enrolled full-time as a student and have a better overall quality of life.Whats the explanation for these mutually reinforcing, job-related outcomes of rehab? Most inpatient rehab and intensive outpatient alcohol treatment programs spend a lot of time helping clients develop life skills, including self-care, tools for effective stress management, and healthy interpersonal communication.In plus-rechnen to these critical life skills, a high-quality rehab program will encourage clients to develop many of the character attributes that employers look for when considering job applicants, includingPunctuality and dependabilityHonesty and trustworthinessResponsibility for ones duties and mistakesSelf-disciplineGood personal hygieneMutual respect and a positive team-player attitudeAdditionally, most high-quality rehab programs devote time to helping clients prepare for their post-rehab vocational lives. That way, clients can smoothly transition back into their jobs or find other jobs that better suit their commitment to recovery. This rehabilitative process can involve career counseling, helping clients practice for job interviews, resume preparation, and developing better organizational and time management skills.The Professional Costs of Not Addressing an Alcohol ProblemOn the flip side of these benefits of getting treatment are the exorbitant professional and occupational costs of not proactively addressing an alcohol problem. The longer problem drinking goes untreated, the more severe the problem and its consequences.The impact of alcoholism in the workplace, according to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, can includeTardiness or sleeping on the jobAbsenteeismPoor decision-makingPost-drinking effects (such as a hangover) that affect job performanceWorkplace theftPoor moraleRelationship problems with colleagues or supervisorsSuch alcohol-related issues will do nothing to help your career, eventually causing even the highest-functioning alcoholic to take a professional nosedive.- If you feel you may struggle with adrinking problem, it is possible that alcohol rehab will be an invaluable investment in your personal and professional futures. Rehab can protect your job from the negative consequences of your drinking and better equip you with the tools and life skills youll need to take your career to the next level. It is even possible that in rehab youll find a renewed sense of purpose for what you do - or discover a whole new vocation that is more rewarding than you could have ever imagined.Anna Ciulla is the vice president of clinical and medical services at Beach House Center for Recovery.

Former ASME Federal Fellow Mike Molnar Receives Roy V. Wright Award

Former ASME Federal Fellow Mike Molnar Receives Roy V. Wright Award Former ASME Federal Fellow Mike Molnar Receives Roy V. Wright Award Former ASME Federal Fellow Mike Molnar Receives Roy V. Wright AwardKalan Guiley (right), vice president of the ASME Board on Government Relations, presented former ASME Federal Government Fellow Michael F. Molnar, with the Roy V. Wright Award during the ASME Government Relations Dinner on April 20.Michael F. Molnar, PE, a former ASME Federal Government Fellow, was honored last month with the Roy V. Wright Award during the ASME Government Relations Dinner. Molnar, director of the interagency Advanced Manufacturing National Program Office (AMNPO) at the U.S. Department of Commerces National Institute of Standards and Technology, received the award after presenting the Roy V. Wright Lecture at the dinner, which was held April 20 in the Mansfield Room of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. The Roy V. Wright Lecture and Award was established in 1949 to h onor Wright, ASMEs 50th president, for his contributions to the United States and his community. The lecture and accompanying award also recognize the motivational power that his speeches and leadership provided to all engineers in encouraging them to become good citizens as well as accomplished professionals.Molnar, who is also an ASME Fellow, is the founding director of the interagency AMNPO, which has a mission of fostering industry-led partnerships and implementing a whole of government approach to improve competitiveness and innovation within U.S. manufacturing. The interagency team is responsible for designing and establishing the National Network for Manufacturing Innovation (NNMI), the federal initiative to build a network of U.S. lokal hubs to accelerate the development and implementation of innovative manufacturing technologies for creating new, globally competitive products.During his lecture, Molnar, who served as a Federal Fellow with the White House Office of Science a nd Technology Policy in 2003-2004, stressed the importance of the team approach in developing technology-related public policy. The theme of my talk tonight is simple ASME matters, manufacturing policy matters, and Federal Fellows matter, he said. They all matter to sound engineering public policy. Collaboration is notlage always easy, but it is highly effective in getting big things done. So too is engineering public policy and the reason why ASME Federal Fellows are so critically important. Public policy is a political process, requiring public input, deliberation and debate, Molnar continued. Moreover, today many - if not most - policy issues involve technology. Public policy depends on technically sound and unbiased information. Development of policies involving complicated technologies and commercial ecosystems especially requires subject matter experts from industry and academia. Today, both engineering and technology focused public policy is a systems challenge best done by teams. What is needed are subject matter experts in Congress and in the Executive Branch - Federal Fellows play a most important role.Later in his talk, Molnar related how he became involved in the Federal Government Fellows program out of the desire to serve the government in some volunteer capacity following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The attacks, he said, had resulted in a relatively lau economic recession, but a much deeper recession within the U.S. manufacturing sector that spurred the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) in the Executive Office of the White House to seek for the first time an experienced federal fellow with expertise in manufacturing for help. After applying for the ASME Federal Fellows program and being competitively selected to serve as an ASME Fellow from 2003-2004, Molnar collaborated with then U.S. Secretary of Commerce Donald Evans and Undersecretary for Technology Phillip Bond, in a number of advanced manufacturing and RD ac tivities, including organizing several regional roundtables, and ultimately developing the report Manufacturing in America.Following this work, the recession ended, U.S. manufacturing seemed to stabilize, and the national attention to manufacturing ended, Molar said. Yet manufacturing was not stable, and continued to hemorrhage jobs - some 6 million, representing a third of the entire direct workforce. In hindsight, more should have been done. The broader lesson Is the completion of a report, or passage of a bill, is only the start, he noted. Public policy requires sustained support. Initiatives need sound execution and successful implementation. Adjustments or course corrections are needed and for this, the ongoing involvement of stakeholders is needed. An active member ASME since 1982, Molnar has held more than 50 leadership positions at the local, regional and society levels, including section chair, vice president of ASMEs former Central Region, chair of the Manufacturing Engin eering Division, and leader of the Manufacturing Technical Group. He received the ASME Dedicated Service Award in 2004.Following his lecture, Molnar was presented with the Roy V. Wright Award by Kalan Guiley, vice president of the Board on Government Relations and the host of the nights program, who called the honor a tribute to (Molnars) tireless tafelgeschirr on behalf of ASME and the engineering and scientific community.Guiley acknowledged distinguished guest and ASME Member Dr. John Swanson for his generous contributions to the ASME Federal Government Fellowship. John is the quintessential American success story, Guiley said. Through hard work and drive he founded Swanson Analysis Systems Inc. in a farmhouse in Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, and, together with a small group of employees, developed a system that would eventually become ANSYS. Bill Jones, a colleague of Johns and a former ASME Federal Fellow in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, says that John buil t ANSYS on a vision combined with dedication and a strong work ethic. John now brings that same energy to his philanthropy, giving to support the development of the future engineering workforce, advancement of the profession and service to the nation and the world.Guiley also expressed appreciation to two ASME Foundation Board Members, Lynden Davis and Jen Jewers, and thanked them for their support of the ASME Federal Fellows Program.William Wepfer, PhD, senior vice president of ASMEs Public Affairs and Outreach Sector, ASME Congressional Fellow Briana Tomboulian, PhD, who is currently serving in the office of Senator Ed Markey (D-MA), and Thomas Kurfess, PhD, current adjunct member of the Board on Government Relations and former ASME Foundation Swanson Fellow, also provided remarks during the award presentation program.