AARP Chicago Volunteer Appreciation Event

On October l6th, I attended the AARP Illinois Chicago Volunteer Appreciation Event.  This event was to honor Chicagoans who had made major contributions by volunteering with the AARP this year.  I am rather impressed with how the AARP supports and recognizes all who support their organization, whether it be staff or volunteers.  I took this opportunity to also meet some distinguished attendees, and have set up some meetings for the future.  One individual in particular is now CEO of a center in the Chicagoland area.  I find that these events are not only beneficial in that you get a chance to meet people from all walks of life, but it is a great way to network.  I am grateful to Heather and Carmenza for their continued support.

Sometime during the next few weeks, I will be meeting with the AARP staff to strategize more about the plan and moving forward.   Having hit the 50+ status and being employed at one job for 25+ years, I kind of had the mindset , that "this is it, what else is there to do?"  This win has me going in directions I never thought I would go in.   My best advice is to stay focused, open minded and never stop believing in yourself.  Stay up on techology and network, network, network.  If you can dream, believe it and see it,  then go for it.!!!!!!.......More to come......

The "Big" Meeting, August 20th, 2008

I had the good fortune to be able meet with Ms,. Holt (District Director to Congressman Bobby Rush) on Wednesday, August 20th at her office on East 79th Street in Chicago.  I want to personally thank Ms. Holt for taking the time out of her busy day to sit doan and talk with me about my "Dream Job" win.  Upon my arrival Ms. Holt introduced me to her staff, as teh AARP Dream Job winner, and the conversation went full force from there.

Ms. Holt has offered her assistance as well as that of her staff (Mr. Seals), who is her District Programs Coordinator.  Ms. Holt has also connected me to the Deputy District Director.  Mr. Suleman works closely with the SBA to sponsor business development. 

I look forward to continuing to work with Ms. HOlt as the venture moves forward.   

 At age 61, and after a lifetime of work in Human Resources management and consulting, I finally have the best job of my life.

I’m the Director of Research and “Chief Career Counselor” for the leading online career service for people age 50+ - RetirementJobs.com. 

I had 16 different jobs: paperboy, soda “jerk”, mailman, auto mechanic, landscaper, house painter, production line worker, computer operator, college instructor, plant supervisor, truck driver, soldier, warehousing manager, retail store clerk, customer service manager and accountant -- all before I turned  25!   None of these prepared me for a career in Human Resources.  But they did  give me a clear view of what working for a living entailed and the variety of jobs was ideal preparation for what I do today.

 I help age 50+ people determine how they can make a living or supplement their retirement income. 

Do you remember the “good-old-days” when you worked for an employer for a lifetime and retired with a gold watch, pension check and health care costs weren’t the biggest issue on your mind?  Within 10 years, this type of retirement will likely be forgotten.  We’re healthier, living longer and caught up in high tech, exciting times.  Studies indicate that more than 75% of us plan to work in some job beyond traditional retirement age.  For some, we’ll work of necessity to pay bills and obtain health care coverage.  Others will work because they choose to. 

Regardless of the reason, the evidence is clear that continuing to work in some fashion is good for your well being – physically, emotionally and financially.  Why not work at a job that is meaningful and rewarding?  Exploring and securing such a job is the topic of my journal.

Are there obstacles to finding your “dream job?”  Most certainly!  The workplace has changed a great deal.  Computer and communication technology has replaced paper, pens and stamps.  Having a personal computer and cell phone are now essential.  Skills, knowledge and capabilities that were unknown 20 years ago are now often considered fundamental.  You must be open to continuous learning.  And let’s not forget age bias.  Worker surveys indicate that more than 90% of people believe that age bias is a “fact of life” and represents a major obstacle to job seekers and workers age 50+ (and even 40+ in some professions and occupations).

Still, work-- whether as a volunteer in some form of community engagement-- or for a regular paycheck, is in the future for the large majority of us.  Why not be in a workplace that treats you with respect and dignity, provides competitive pay and benefits, and where the work can be meaningful, important – and even fun?

The job opportunities for older workers will blossom in coming years.  We are an important segment of the workforce.  We are capable, reliable, creative, diligent, productive and conscientious.  This journal will be a gathering place to share ideas, resources and opportunities about working at 50+.

I hope you will join in.

- Bob

This is my first week out of school and it's busy with personal interviews about my journey. One from an author in Oregon who's book is coming out in November and another from the local paper here where I live. It will be out next week. Both interviewers asked me to go back to my first job! Well, it takes about an hour to cover 40+ years!

Thank God for good memory, as I recall my career history starting in my early 20's.  These people are very kind as they listen to me speak about the mountaintops and valleys of my career and life. It feels a little strange to talk so much about oneself, but then that's what winning this contest is all about! Hope it touches someone!

I will keep everyone posted about my job search as there's activity in that arena too. Signing off from Sunny San Diego and I welcome  your comments!

Kalikat

Today marked the end of 8 months of studies in the Medical Assistant Course. I now need to move from Student Mode to Job Seeker Mode once again. I have mixed feelings about my "graduation". I really loved the teachers and fellow students as well as what I was learning. Working in the Medical Profession will give me a chance to pay back for what they do for millions of us!

If I didn't have to augment my income, I would have gone for a whole degree program. However, survival calls, so I'm planning my next steps. I'm very thankful for the amenities that this contest has given me, as it reminds one that we are on the right track.

I'm working on my strategy for the coming weeks/days and from the 2 interviews so far, I'm feeling excited and hopeful.

More later......

  When we are looking for our Dream Job, especially entering a new career field, it is imperative to establish and utilize our network. This can be family, friends, people at church, women in your club. Everyone knows someone that is in the Medical Profession and I’m thankful that my SoCal family is involved in one of my top choice Employers...Scripps Health.

Also, while interviewing, I’ve been asking for advice of next steps and asking total strangers to pass on my resume. I’m thinking if they are interested enough to contact me for an interview, then they may be interested in referring me, if that particular situation isn’t a fit.

I would like to hear from those that are trying this or who are attempting to break into a new career or industry.

Until nextime and enjoy your Springtime!

Kalikat

 Category: Downsized

 Hello Everyone!

I wanted to share with you that I’ll be completing my training at the end of April and have started the interview process.

The feedback I’m getting is very positive. The Medical profession is looking for people who have had a well-rounded career and are enthusiastic about helping others as well as keeping themselves and others healthy. It also helps to have a winning smile and sincere desire. It’s very encouraging to know that I’m on the right track.

It’s never too late!

Kalikat