During a three-hour conversation not too long ago, a friend and I briefly discussed what it means to truly be an adult. He remarked, for him, there was nothing definitive about adulthood and it was more of a gradual process. For me, it was hitting a milestone birthday and realizing the world didn't see me as a kid anymore and any mistakes I would make could no longer be blamed on youth or naivete.
One of the more difficult realizations as an adult for me was learning a great majority of the population hates change. Even when you think whatever really bad situation they are in now couldn't be any worse than death, hell, or what have you, most people refuse to take action and instead stay in the same horrible circumstance day in and day out.
I could never relate to this way of thinking or living life as I'm very much about learning, growing, and being the best person I can be. Granted, I may take some time to figure out a strategy or think things through to best conquer a situation, but that mental thinking through process is still action, awareness, and productivity. I want to live the best life I can, while I can, as I understand life is very short. So to sit back and do nothing, and waste each day away is one of the biggest insults of mankind to humanity.
I researched this, trying to understand why some people act and others don't. It took me a couple of books to find the most concise answer and reasoning behind why people refuse change. And here is the truth:
Most people prefer the certainty of misery than the misery of uncertainty.
No matter how bad life may be, most people become "comfortable" and learn how to cope with horrendous situations. Although they may be extremely unhappy, they reason at least they know how to get through it because they've done it before. It's easier for them to keep doing the same thing over and over again even though they may hate that same vicious cycle. When they are already down, it's much harder to try something new, plan for change, and to find the emotional and mental energy to find a better answer, way of life, or new coping mechanisms.
This insight, however unreasonable or ill-fated, truly opened my eyes to why a lot of otherwise smart, capable, and mature adults made really bad decisions and continued to stay in them.
The good news with this piece of insight is you'll no longer have to drive yourself crazy wondering why people stay in the same dead-end cycle. And, when that person is ready to embrace change and take the next step you'll be able to see their change of heart and be there to support them every step of the way when they are good and ready!
Monday, August 31, 2009
Friday, August 28, 2009
The Worst Mistake Women Can Make
Slowly a lot of my friends are getting married and bearing children. One of the most neglected areas of discussion and thought are finances and looking at the big picture amid the excitement of wedding planning and greeting the joys of parenthood.
Among my group of friends who are mothers, some work and some don't. My sister is also hoping to have children soon and we had a passionate debate about why it's very important to keep working, at least part-time, even if you have young children. She didn't think it was a big deal or necessary if the husband made enough so the wife didn't have to work. I took the other stance.
More than anything, women have the desire to stay home and raise their own children. I completely understand that and support that decision. The problem arises when women choose to stay out of the workforce completely for a few years thinking they can get a job at a drop of a hat when they want to return.
While motherhood is a great reason, and probably one of the best, to explain a long employment gap, unfortunately, what many companies only see is the following.
1) This candidate has no current computer or technology skills.
2) This candidate isn't up to date on the current trends and the pulse of our industry.
3) This candidate hasn't functioned in a professional or corporate environment for years and doesn't have the knack for office politics or basic business acumen anymore.
4) This candidate's relevant job experience is so outdated it's equivalent to not having any experience.
5) This candidate is too much of a risk to hire.
As my sister and I were having our discussion, I shared with her what I learned through all of my reading of business and financial planning books. At the heart of my argument was this.
THE ODDS OF YOUR HUSBAND DYING OR DIVORCING YOU ARE PRETTY HIGH. UNLESS HE'S A BILLIONAIRE, HOW WILL YOU SUPPORT YOURSELF, YOUR KIDS, AND ENSURE ALL OF YOU CAN LIVE COMFORTABLY WITH A BRIGHT FUTURE?
You can't argue with death. I'm sorry.
The solution is to stay at home to raise your young children, but also stay involved with the workforce somehow. Work part-time, have a challenging and consistent volunteer position, continue to take classes for certification, return to school, or start your own at-home business. The goal is to have something to write on your resume to show you weren't professionally stagnant.
Another argument against both parents working is the high cost of childcare. The 2nd working parent's income will barely cover it, if at all. Logically and financially this is a good argument regarding time and PNL. However, qualitatively speaking, the tremendous value of participating in the workforce is not something that can be bought. A working mother shouldn't look at staying employed for the benefit of the paycheck, it's insurance that should something bad happen, she can provide for her children in the absence of her husband.
Albeit controversial upon first glance, everyone should read this book. It is one of my favorites.
The Feminine Mistake, The: Are We Giving Up Too Much? http://www.amazon.com/Feminine-Mistake-Are-Giving-Much/dp/1401303064
From Publishers Weekly
It would be easy to dismiss this as yet another salvo in the mommy wars-—the debate over women opting out of careers to be stay-at-home moms. But Bennetts, a longtime journalist and writer for Vanity Fair, is more interested in investigating what she sees as the heart of the matter: economics. Through impressive research and interviews with experts and with real women, Bennetts shows that women simply cannot afford to quit their day jobs. Long-term loss of income has a cascading impact in areas such as medical benefits and retirement funds, not to mention a woman's sense of autonomy, derived from financial independence. Further, a career supplies a woman with a measure of security for herself and her children in the event of unexpected sickness or divorce. As any woman who has tried knows, returning to the workforce and finding a well-paying job after an absence of years, or even decades, is difficult. Not so long ago mothers would pin a dollar bill to their daughters' underclothes when they went out on a date in case, for some reason, they needed carfare home. Those mothers knew all to well that without money of your own it's easy to be left stranded. As Bennetts expertly shows, it's still true. (Apr.)
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Among my group of friends who are mothers, some work and some don't. My sister is also hoping to have children soon and we had a passionate debate about why it's very important to keep working, at least part-time, even if you have young children. She didn't think it was a big deal or necessary if the husband made enough so the wife didn't have to work. I took the other stance.
More than anything, women have the desire to stay home and raise their own children. I completely understand that and support that decision. The problem arises when women choose to stay out of the workforce completely for a few years thinking they can get a job at a drop of a hat when they want to return.
While motherhood is a great reason, and probably one of the best, to explain a long employment gap, unfortunately, what many companies only see is the following.
1) This candidate has no current computer or technology skills.
2) This candidate isn't up to date on the current trends and the pulse of our industry.
3) This candidate hasn't functioned in a professional or corporate environment for years and doesn't have the knack for office politics or basic business acumen anymore.
4) This candidate's relevant job experience is so outdated it's equivalent to not having any experience.
5) This candidate is too much of a risk to hire.
As my sister and I were having our discussion, I shared with her what I learned through all of my reading of business and financial planning books. At the heart of my argument was this.
THE ODDS OF YOUR HUSBAND DYING OR DIVORCING YOU ARE PRETTY HIGH. UNLESS HE'S A BILLIONAIRE, HOW WILL YOU SUPPORT YOURSELF, YOUR KIDS, AND ENSURE ALL OF YOU CAN LIVE COMFORTABLY WITH A BRIGHT FUTURE?
You can't argue with death. I'm sorry.
The solution is to stay at home to raise your young children, but also stay involved with the workforce somehow. Work part-time, have a challenging and consistent volunteer position, continue to take classes for certification, return to school, or start your own at-home business. The goal is to have something to write on your resume to show you weren't professionally stagnant.
Another argument against both parents working is the high cost of childcare. The 2nd working parent's income will barely cover it, if at all. Logically and financially this is a good argument regarding time and PNL. However, qualitatively speaking, the tremendous value of participating in the workforce is not something that can be bought. A working mother shouldn't look at staying employed for the benefit of the paycheck, it's insurance that should something bad happen, she can provide for her children in the absence of her husband.
Albeit controversial upon first glance, everyone should read this book. It is one of my favorites.
The Feminine Mistake, The: Are We Giving Up Too Much? http://www.amazon.com/Feminine-Mistake-Are-Giving-Much/dp/1401303064
From Publishers Weekly
It would be easy to dismiss this as yet another salvo in the mommy wars-—the debate over women opting out of careers to be stay-at-home moms. But Bennetts, a longtime journalist and writer for Vanity Fair, is more interested in investigating what she sees as the heart of the matter: economics. Through impressive research and interviews with experts and with real women, Bennetts shows that women simply cannot afford to quit their day jobs. Long-term loss of income has a cascading impact in areas such as medical benefits and retirement funds, not to mention a woman's sense of autonomy, derived from financial independence. Further, a career supplies a woman with a measure of security for herself and her children in the event of unexpected sickness or divorce. As any woman who has tried knows, returning to the workforce and finding a well-paying job after an absence of years, or even decades, is difficult. Not so long ago mothers would pin a dollar bill to their daughters' underclothes when they went out on a date in case, for some reason, they needed carfare home. Those mothers knew all to well that without money of your own it's easy to be left stranded. As Bennetts expertly shows, it's still true. (Apr.)
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Interview Attire For Hollywood & Other Non-Traditional Jobs
For my entire career I've been dressing up the same way for a job interview in Hollywood. I wear what I call the "publicist's outfit." What is the publicist outfit? An all black suit, black purse, black portfolio, black pointy-toe heels, flats or boots, and a non-black collared shirt with at least the first button undone so it creates a V-neck shape for my necklace to show through.
I chose this outfit for several reasons.
1) Wearing all black has a commanding presence & makes me feel more "in charge."
2) One solid color from head to toe makes you look taller.
3) Pointy shoes make you look taller.
4) Everyone's publicist on the red carpet was dressed this way at any event I worked at.
5) Black never goes out of style.
When I was interviewing to work for a Chairman/CEO as his office Executive Hostess where I greeted clients, served beverages, and was in charge of catering for office functions, I was told what to wear by the girl I was replacing. She wanted me to get the job and she got the same advice from the person before her. That outfit was black slacks and a matching sweater/cardigan set. Why that outfit? It's the same outfit my supervisor, the senior assistant would wear.
Once, my agent/recruiter suggested I wear an all red suit to a job interview. I thought that was too bold and didn't take her advice. Not to mention, I didn't have that outfit. I even consulted my mentor about this and she agreed it was too much to wear red from head to toe.
My dad brought up an interesting point about attire. He counsels all his trainees to always wear a suit, even if the job is for a car mechanic. The logic is if a car mechanic dresses impeccably, the idea planted is "when I work on your car, I'll be extra clean, detailed, and won't leave oil marks on the seats. I'll leave your car pristine."
I once had an interview and was at a loss of what to wear because for the first time the weather was 95 degrees outside in the dead of summer, and I live near the beach! This means that my publicist outfit wouldn't work even if I wore a summer suit because I'd still be wearing an all black thinner long sleeve suit jacket, a shirt underneath, and capri pants. I'd have to factor in I'd be even hotter from "running" around that I'd be profusely sweating if I wore that much clothes. Keep in mind, its also about 10-15 degrees hotter in the Valley where other entertainment companies are.
I've also had interviews at clothing stores. And I know that dressing "creatively" with a "unique" style is encouraged for different industries. The publicist uniform was out. I had to find something that was fashionable, yet appropriate office attire. I settled on a black designer dress that was calf length with cap sleeves and very low red pointy heels. I also decided to pull all my hair back, except I didn't put it into a bun. I figured this would give me a more polished corporate look to balance out the red shoes and dress. I wore jewelry - Tiffany necklace, Tiffany ring, diamond cocktail ring, and an orange rubber bracelet (a la Lance Armstrong Live Strong) except mine was for a different cause. The only pieces that weren't part of my daily attire were the Tiffany ring and the diamond cocktail ring.
Now that I've blogged about this, I wonder how do people dress for interviews in different parts of the world and for traditional or non-traditional jobs? And how different is your outfit when it's pouring rain (Seattle), snowing (New York winter), and in the desert (Vegas)?
I chose this outfit for several reasons.
1) Wearing all black has a commanding presence & makes me feel more "in charge."
2) One solid color from head to toe makes you look taller.
3) Pointy shoes make you look taller.
4) Everyone's publicist on the red carpet was dressed this way at any event I worked at.
5) Black never goes out of style.
When I was interviewing to work for a Chairman/CEO as his office Executive Hostess where I greeted clients, served beverages, and was in charge of catering for office functions, I was told what to wear by the girl I was replacing. She wanted me to get the job and she got the same advice from the person before her. That outfit was black slacks and a matching sweater/cardigan set. Why that outfit? It's the same outfit my supervisor, the senior assistant would wear.
Once, my agent/recruiter suggested I wear an all red suit to a job interview. I thought that was too bold and didn't take her advice. Not to mention, I didn't have that outfit. I even consulted my mentor about this and she agreed it was too much to wear red from head to toe.
My dad brought up an interesting point about attire. He counsels all his trainees to always wear a suit, even if the job is for a car mechanic. The logic is if a car mechanic dresses impeccably, the idea planted is "when I work on your car, I'll be extra clean, detailed, and won't leave oil marks on the seats. I'll leave your car pristine."
I once had an interview and was at a loss of what to wear because for the first time the weather was 95 degrees outside in the dead of summer, and I live near the beach! This means that my publicist outfit wouldn't work even if I wore a summer suit because I'd still be wearing an all black thinner long sleeve suit jacket, a shirt underneath, and capri pants. I'd have to factor in I'd be even hotter from "running" around that I'd be profusely sweating if I wore that much clothes. Keep in mind, its also about 10-15 degrees hotter in the Valley where other entertainment companies are.
I've also had interviews at clothing stores. And I know that dressing "creatively" with a "unique" style is encouraged for different industries. The publicist uniform was out. I had to find something that was fashionable, yet appropriate office attire. I settled on a black designer dress that was calf length with cap sleeves and very low red pointy heels. I also decided to pull all my hair back, except I didn't put it into a bun. I figured this would give me a more polished corporate look to balance out the red shoes and dress. I wore jewelry - Tiffany necklace, Tiffany ring, diamond cocktail ring, and an orange rubber bracelet (a la Lance Armstrong Live Strong) except mine was for a different cause. The only pieces that weren't part of my daily attire were the Tiffany ring and the diamond cocktail ring.
Now that I've blogged about this, I wonder how do people dress for interviews in different parts of the world and for traditional or non-traditional jobs? And how different is your outfit when it's pouring rain (Seattle), snowing (New York winter), and in the desert (Vegas)?
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
How & Where Do I Find More Job Leads?
I'd like to think of myself as having a lot of initiative, creating my own luck, and being pretty good at networking. Often, my hard work, optimism, and drive pays off in job leads, but since I'm looking for the RIGHT job, it's been a long journey. I'm curious what else I could be doing.
Despite never having any background or experience in recruiting, I was offered a four-month contract job as a senior coordinator which I happily took. The great thing about the job is I learned what it's like to be on the other side. I loved being a cheerleader for the company and helping people get hired. One of the unexpected surprises was that once my contract ended all the recruiters that I worked with said I did well and offered to help me with my job hunt too! They are all extremely gracious and kind! Herein also lies my difficulty in what else I could be doing - when I have several recruiters/HR people who are keeping their ears open for me half my work is done. The entertainment industry is so small that these people also know everyone else in recruiting or HR too. I check in with them periodically to see if they've seen the latest movie we both helped staff or how my job hunt is going or if they'll be in LA soon so we can go to lunch, etc. So I'm covered at the central hub.
Because I've been working for 9 years now, I've grown my network steadily. It consists of former bosses, co-workers, friends at work and in my personal life, friends of friends, professional network groups I'm a part of, anyone through my volunteering activities, temp agencies, and people I'm a client to as well - my former personal trainer, my photographer, etc. I keep in touch with them by offering to help them out on their projects, support their events, get them new clients, or because we have similar interests like books, films, music, or our love of eating. I see this group of people a little more because I've known them a little longer.
I've also discovered that my resume will usually get me in the door of a company if I send it cold or someone who doesn't know me well passes on my resume anyway. This is how Fortune 75 companies found me or on LinkedIn. My resume gets passed through 2 or 3 people or a hiring manager is doing a general search on LinkedIn or the job sites.
As I look for the right job, I always try to find short-term work, especially in an area I've never been exposed to so I can get more experience. Even if it's just learning a new software program, a new office phone, the corporate culture of a company, or how other departments interact with mine, I try to learn and grow and gain something!
I think the answer lies in doing all the right steps over and over again until I get to where I want to go... Keep in touch with people, go out and meet new people, read a lot of business books, and blog for a stronger online presence.
What have you tried? What has or hasn't worked? Do you have any suggestions for me? :)
Despite never having any background or experience in recruiting, I was offered a four-month contract job as a senior coordinator which I happily took. The great thing about the job is I learned what it's like to be on the other side. I loved being a cheerleader for the company and helping people get hired. One of the unexpected surprises was that once my contract ended all the recruiters that I worked with said I did well and offered to help me with my job hunt too! They are all extremely gracious and kind! Herein also lies my difficulty in what else I could be doing - when I have several recruiters/HR people who are keeping their ears open for me half my work is done. The entertainment industry is so small that these people also know everyone else in recruiting or HR too. I check in with them periodically to see if they've seen the latest movie we both helped staff or how my job hunt is going or if they'll be in LA soon so we can go to lunch, etc. So I'm covered at the central hub.
Because I've been working for 9 years now, I've grown my network steadily. It consists of former bosses, co-workers, friends at work and in my personal life, friends of friends, professional network groups I'm a part of, anyone through my volunteering activities, temp agencies, and people I'm a client to as well - my former personal trainer, my photographer, etc. I keep in touch with them by offering to help them out on their projects, support their events, get them new clients, or because we have similar interests like books, films, music, or our love of eating. I see this group of people a little more because I've known them a little longer.
I've also discovered that my resume will usually get me in the door of a company if I send it cold or someone who doesn't know me well passes on my resume anyway. This is how Fortune 75 companies found me or on LinkedIn. My resume gets passed through 2 or 3 people or a hiring manager is doing a general search on LinkedIn or the job sites.
As I look for the right job, I always try to find short-term work, especially in an area I've never been exposed to so I can get more experience. Even if it's just learning a new software program, a new office phone, the corporate culture of a company, or how other departments interact with mine, I try to learn and grow and gain something!
I think the answer lies in doing all the right steps over and over again until I get to where I want to go... Keep in touch with people, go out and meet new people, read a lot of business books, and blog for a stronger online presence.
What have you tried? What has or hasn't worked? Do you have any suggestions for me? :)
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Is My Career Specialty TOO Specific?
I've been reading a lot that having a specialty or a niche is very important. The idea is to be an expert or the top candidate in your field so you become the "go to" person. The last thing you should want is to be good at everything because then you aren't really good at any one thing.
My first job after college was working for a Chairman/CEO. And then I got laid off in a merger. However, even after the first CEO I was pegged as "the assistant to CEOs." So be warned - often unfairly, the first job you take out of college becomes your specialty.
After I was laid off I of course had to go look for another job. I was called in for an interview at an agency and it was the assistant that did all the vetting of the candidates. The executive basically yelled at me for showing up for the interview because he wasn't a CEO and he thought it was absurd that I would even show up for a non-CEO executive assistant position. It was a horrible experience because I waited for an hour to see him and the entire "interview" lasted about 5 minutes.
Originally, my logic to becoming an executive assistant was it was a great job, there are tons of assistants so I should always have a job, and I enjoyed the work. In hindsight, there was fault in my thinking.
1) I wanted to work in the entertainment industry which really only exists in Los Angeles or New York. I already lived in New York and it wasn't for me. So that leaves Los Angeles.
2) Now that I'm job hunting again my biggest obstacle is HR or executives see not working for a CEO is a step down for me even though I don't see it that way. I didn't choose to be an assistant to CEOs. My first two jobs found me and I went on to work for a 3rd CEO. It's been a great resume booster to work for 3 CEOs but that also meant there are only so many CEOs that I could work for, especially in the entertainment industry. All my jobs have been with major corporations or conglomerates which also means only so many exist in the world and also in Los Angeles/entertainment industry.
3) By nature, being a good executive assistant means you're good at admin work. But admin work is very vague - phones, travel, calendar, expense reports, etc. So really, being a good executive assistant translates to being good with people and having great soft skills which is also not specific. So that really comes down to, I'm good at being what you need me to be, which isn't a specialty at all.
So, I kinda fell into what I did and went with it, for better or for worse. However, I am noticing a trend in all the people who headhunt me.
- I can work for any C-level executive or an executive who has very high-profile clients.
- Despite having zero experience in other fields, I've been offered other jobs as I've proven I can hit the ground running and learn as I go.
- Hiring managers know I can work with anyone and deal with anyone because CEOs interact with all levels of seniority, various professions, and a wide array of personalities.
- They also know I understand office politics, have basic business acumen, and keep things confidential because I wasn't a personal assistant or an assistant working out of someone's house.
- If I can handle the fast pace, urgent deadlines, and ever-changing priorities of the entertainment industry, I can probably handle anything.
I've never regretted any of the career decisions I've made. I'll also be able to transition to other industries if I choose to or explore other positions. Nothing is set in stone so don't worry if you may feel your specialty might be too specific as well.
My first job after college was working for a Chairman/CEO. And then I got laid off in a merger. However, even after the first CEO I was pegged as "the assistant to CEOs." So be warned - often unfairly, the first job you take out of college becomes your specialty.
After I was laid off I of course had to go look for another job. I was called in for an interview at an agency and it was the assistant that did all the vetting of the candidates. The executive basically yelled at me for showing up for the interview because he wasn't a CEO and he thought it was absurd that I would even show up for a non-CEO executive assistant position. It was a horrible experience because I waited for an hour to see him and the entire "interview" lasted about 5 minutes.
Originally, my logic to becoming an executive assistant was it was a great job, there are tons of assistants so I should always have a job, and I enjoyed the work. In hindsight, there was fault in my thinking.
1) I wanted to work in the entertainment industry which really only exists in Los Angeles or New York. I already lived in New York and it wasn't for me. So that leaves Los Angeles.
2) Now that I'm job hunting again my biggest obstacle is HR or executives see not working for a CEO is a step down for me even though I don't see it that way. I didn't choose to be an assistant to CEOs. My first two jobs found me and I went on to work for a 3rd CEO. It's been a great resume booster to work for 3 CEOs but that also meant there are only so many CEOs that I could work for, especially in the entertainment industry. All my jobs have been with major corporations or conglomerates which also means only so many exist in the world and also in Los Angeles/entertainment industry.
3) By nature, being a good executive assistant means you're good at admin work. But admin work is very vague - phones, travel, calendar, expense reports, etc. So really, being a good executive assistant translates to being good with people and having great soft skills which is also not specific. So that really comes down to, I'm good at being what you need me to be, which isn't a specialty at all.
So, I kinda fell into what I did and went with it, for better or for worse. However, I am noticing a trend in all the people who headhunt me.
- I can work for any C-level executive or an executive who has very high-profile clients.
- Despite having zero experience in other fields, I've been offered other jobs as I've proven I can hit the ground running and learn as I go.
- Hiring managers know I can work with anyone and deal with anyone because CEOs interact with all levels of seniority, various professions, and a wide array of personalities.
- They also know I understand office politics, have basic business acumen, and keep things confidential because I wasn't a personal assistant or an assistant working out of someone's house.
- If I can handle the fast pace, urgent deadlines, and ever-changing priorities of the entertainment industry, I can probably handle anything.
I've never regretted any of the career decisions I've made. I'll also be able to transition to other industries if I choose to or explore other positions. Nothing is set in stone so don't worry if you may feel your specialty might be too specific as well.
Monday, August 24, 2009
How A Thank You Card Launched My Career
I've been very lucky my entire career with having wonderful bosses and co-workers and being consistently groomed in the same way by all my superiors. It has allowed me to be in the entertainment industry for almost 9 years now.
While on a job interview not too long ago, I was asked how I ended up working for everyone I have and how I got started in the industry. My first answer was, "No nepotism here!" but the more serious answer is I did A LOT of internships, I started on my career early, and I did it through hard work because I had ZERO connections in Hollywood. Yes, ZERO. I've found every single one of my jobs through a temping agency. But in reality - the most useful skill that opened a lot of doors for me were my soft skills.
To all my college professors and mentors, hats off to you for teaching me about gratitude, showing appreciation, and passing on the knowledge as a way of giving back to the community.
How I Got My Job with a Chairman/CEO
I moved to Los Angeles to look for a job in the industry and because I had zero connections, I learned through informational interviews that I should apply to the temp agencies. I opened the phone book and signed up with every single one in town. One of my first assignments was being the executive assistant to a VP. On my first day there, as I walk to my desk, a guy appears out of nowhere and introduces himself to say hi and welcome me to the company. We shake hands, exchange names, and that's it. I basically never see him again because he doesn't even work in my department. However, this guy deserves all the credit for launching my entire career. Here's how...
After my gig ended, I sent thank you cards to EVERYONE I met, including this guy that I never saw again. I thanked him for making me feel welcome and taking the time to introduce himself although we never worked together. I mentioned my gig was over and I learned a lot and enjoyed my assignment and hoped to have the chance to return again. It may sound like a stretch, but I was really moved with how he went out of his way to be nice when it wasn't required of him.
A couple of weeks later I get a call for an assignment and I realize it's this guy who requested me based on the fact that I sent him a thank you card. The important thing I learned is, he's an event planner, he hosts parties, he meets lots of people, and to him, the fact that I sent a thank you card said something about me.
My job is anything from deliver memos to different people on other floors to stuffing THOUSANDS of invitations to be mailed out for movie premieres. It's not what one would call a "meaty" assignment, but it didn't matter to me so I went about my business and did my job.
Delivering memos meant I also had to drop off stuff to the CEO's office. So I'd go in, put the papers in the in box and turn around and leave. No hello, no trying to chat them up or loiter to see if any celebrities were there.
Another couple of weeks go by and I'm told by HR, "The CEO wants to hire you to work in his office." And I find out they were asking about me, "Who's the girl that drops off paperwork? We really like her."
They really like me?! Based on what!? LOL I think it's because I was quiet and unassuming.
So if the event planner hadn't introduced himself and if I didn't send him a thank you card, I would have never delivered papers to the CEO to be hired... It's just that simple. I got my first real job by taking 5 minutes of out my day to say thank you. :)
While on a job interview not too long ago, I was asked how I ended up working for everyone I have and how I got started in the industry. My first answer was, "No nepotism here!" but the more serious answer is I did A LOT of internships, I started on my career early, and I did it through hard work because I had ZERO connections in Hollywood. Yes, ZERO. I've found every single one of my jobs through a temping agency. But in reality - the most useful skill that opened a lot of doors for me were my soft skills.
To all my college professors and mentors, hats off to you for teaching me about gratitude, showing appreciation, and passing on the knowledge as a way of giving back to the community.
How I Got My Job with a Chairman/CEO
I moved to Los Angeles to look for a job in the industry and because I had zero connections, I learned through informational interviews that I should apply to the temp agencies. I opened the phone book and signed up with every single one in town. One of my first assignments was being the executive assistant to a VP. On my first day there, as I walk to my desk, a guy appears out of nowhere and introduces himself to say hi and welcome me to the company. We shake hands, exchange names, and that's it. I basically never see him again because he doesn't even work in my department. However, this guy deserves all the credit for launching my entire career. Here's how...
After my gig ended, I sent thank you cards to EVERYONE I met, including this guy that I never saw again. I thanked him for making me feel welcome and taking the time to introduce himself although we never worked together. I mentioned my gig was over and I learned a lot and enjoyed my assignment and hoped to have the chance to return again. It may sound like a stretch, but I was really moved with how he went out of his way to be nice when it wasn't required of him.
A couple of weeks later I get a call for an assignment and I realize it's this guy who requested me based on the fact that I sent him a thank you card. The important thing I learned is, he's an event planner, he hosts parties, he meets lots of people, and to him, the fact that I sent a thank you card said something about me.
My job is anything from deliver memos to different people on other floors to stuffing THOUSANDS of invitations to be mailed out for movie premieres. It's not what one would call a "meaty" assignment, but it didn't matter to me so I went about my business and did my job.
Delivering memos meant I also had to drop off stuff to the CEO's office. So I'd go in, put the papers in the in box and turn around and leave. No hello, no trying to chat them up or loiter to see if any celebrities were there.
Another couple of weeks go by and I'm told by HR, "The CEO wants to hire you to work in his office." And I find out they were asking about me, "Who's the girl that drops off paperwork? We really like her."
They really like me?! Based on what!? LOL I think it's because I was quiet and unassuming.
So if the event planner hadn't introduced himself and if I didn't send him a thank you card, I would have never delivered papers to the CEO to be hired... It's just that simple. I got my first real job by taking 5 minutes of out my day to say thank you. :)
Friday, August 21, 2009
A Noteworthy Lesson on Movie Distribution Anyone Can Use & How It Affects Your Haircut
As a high-level executive assistant in the entertainment industry, most of my friends are in the biz. And most of my career being at film studios, it's obvious I love watching movies. I think this weekend was an extreme example. And it's the first time I've done such a thing. Here's an edited snapshot of my weekend.
Fri - dinner & Inglourious Basterds (loved it)
Sat - dinner & Post Grad (eh...)
Sun - dinner & Cold Souls (eh...)
Now, the lesson here is that before you go watch a movie, pay attention to which theatre # it's in and how long the movie has been out. Why? Because if the movie is in theatre #10 on opening weekend that's a bad sign.
I learned all this AFTER it was too late! And I've been in the industry for about 9 years! You learn something new every day!
My friend who used to work in distribution at a major film studio starts freaking out as soon as we sit down to see Post Grad and I didn't know why. I had gone ahead and bought the tickets online for the Arclight at Sherman Oaks. She explains to me that movies only get to the smaller theatres at the back of the venue which are assigned the highest room numbers because the movie will have a smaller audience. I didn't realize that, but it's true. All the huge blockbuster movies are in theatre #1 so that throngs of people exit the theatre happily chatting how great the movie was.
On Sunday when I went to see Cold Souls I bought tickets online waaay in advance. I went to the Landmark at Westside Pavilion. The cool thing was, it was in "the lounge" which is not a regular screening room. Instead of having seats, it has COUCHES. So I picked a two-seater for me and my date. It was really cool cause the couch was leather and only about 40 people could fit in the stadium seating-type room. Very comfy. For some unknown reason, only the first two couches in the room are cloth and orange with round ottomans which my date called "Romper room" and "left over props from Carrot Top's act." LOL Alas, he is also in the biz with his colorful descriptions. LOL ;)
So Cold Souls was in Theatre 10 which I thought was okay because it had been out awhile and older movies end up with smaller audiences around week 4 or 5 so I was in good shape. EXCEPT when I went to the restroom and came back my date told me that the "seating attendant, for lack of a better term" said it was opening weekend of Cold Souls. So of course I'm thinking, oh crap! And I tell him my newfound lesson about distribution and the small theaters are for the crappy movies and what not.
And guess what!?
We didn't really like the movie so I think this little tidbit is true.
If the movie is in a small theater opening weekend it will probably suck.
When my friend told me that story I tried to rationalize it by saying, "Well, if Basterds is out, maybe it's in 1/2 the theatres so by no fault of their own, Post Grad had to be in theatre #10." Yeah, I wish!
So what does this all have to do with haircuts? As I type this post, I realize it's the same concept for haircuts. At hair salons, the best stylists have stations at the front of the store. Why? Because they should be highly visible for any would-be clients passing by or observing the stylists at work. So keep that in mind next time you get a haircut, you want the stylist in the window at the front...
Fri - dinner & Inglourious Basterds (loved it)
Sat - dinner & Post Grad (eh...)
Sun - dinner & Cold Souls (eh...)
Now, the lesson here is that before you go watch a movie, pay attention to which theatre # it's in and how long the movie has been out. Why? Because if the movie is in theatre #10 on opening weekend that's a bad sign.
I learned all this AFTER it was too late! And I've been in the industry for about 9 years! You learn something new every day!
My friend who used to work in distribution at a major film studio starts freaking out as soon as we sit down to see Post Grad and I didn't know why. I had gone ahead and bought the tickets online for the Arclight at Sherman Oaks. She explains to me that movies only get to the smaller theatres at the back of the venue which are assigned the highest room numbers because the movie will have a smaller audience. I didn't realize that, but it's true. All the huge blockbuster movies are in theatre #1 so that throngs of people exit the theatre happily chatting how great the movie was.
On Sunday when I went to see Cold Souls I bought tickets online waaay in advance. I went to the Landmark at Westside Pavilion. The cool thing was, it was in "the lounge" which is not a regular screening room. Instead of having seats, it has COUCHES. So I picked a two-seater for me and my date. It was really cool cause the couch was leather and only about 40 people could fit in the stadium seating-type room. Very comfy. For some unknown reason, only the first two couches in the room are cloth and orange with round ottomans which my date called "Romper room" and "left over props from Carrot Top's act." LOL Alas, he is also in the biz with his colorful descriptions. LOL ;)
So Cold Souls was in Theatre 10 which I thought was okay because it had been out awhile and older movies end up with smaller audiences around week 4 or 5 so I was in good shape. EXCEPT when I went to the restroom and came back my date told me that the "seating attendant, for lack of a better term" said it was opening weekend of Cold Souls. So of course I'm thinking, oh crap! And I tell him my newfound lesson about distribution and the small theaters are for the crappy movies and what not.
And guess what!?
We didn't really like the movie so I think this little tidbit is true.
If the movie is in a small theater opening weekend it will probably suck.
When my friend told me that story I tried to rationalize it by saying, "Well, if Basterds is out, maybe it's in 1/2 the theatres so by no fault of their own, Post Grad had to be in theatre #10." Yeah, I wish!
So what does this all have to do with haircuts? As I type this post, I realize it's the same concept for haircuts. At hair salons, the best stylists have stations at the front of the store. Why? Because they should be highly visible for any would-be clients passing by or observing the stylists at work. So keep that in mind next time you get a haircut, you want the stylist in the window at the front...
Is there a profession that DOESN'T need a blog?
I started my blog because I love Penelope's posts. I agree almost 100% of the time with her. However, I'm wondering if I need a blog. I'm a high-level executive assistant, in the entertainment industry, and I've been lucky enough to be headhunted by Fortune 75 companies through word of mouth or finding my LinkedIn profile.
The question I'm really asking is, "Do I need to blog?" because I'm at a loss of what to write. And is there a point in expending so much energy in a life-long project that may not have any positive benefit? I feel like I may not fit the typical demographic of bloggers. I like being a career executive assistant, I like working from nine to six, I even enjoy overtime as long as it doesn't top 55 hrs a week. And I feel as though most people who have a blog want to be freelancers or their own boss, which I don't.
Penelope said the sign of a great career is the opportunity to say no to amazing positions. And that's just the thing. I have a great career, but I don't have a full-time staff position right now. I'm temping. I have turned down the Fortune 75 companies because the two jobs weren't right for me. I've been professionally "homeless" for a while now.
Luckily, all my temping experiences have also been amazing so I've actually enjoyed my job hunt and gotten a lot out of it. For some reason, the job hunt doesn't bother me. I see it as an adventure because you don't know what's going to happen or where you will land or who you will meet.
So, I thought I'd at least start a profile at Brazen Careerist and make the project sharing my love of reading and exploring being a newbie in the blogging world. I'm sure I'll learn a lot of things just by trying it out, which in the end is all that matters...
The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing. - John Powell
The question I'm really asking is, "Do I need to blog?" because I'm at a loss of what to write. And is there a point in expending so much energy in a life-long project that may not have any positive benefit? I feel like I may not fit the typical demographic of bloggers. I like being a career executive assistant, I like working from nine to six, I even enjoy overtime as long as it doesn't top 55 hrs a week. And I feel as though most people who have a blog want to be freelancers or their own boss, which I don't.
Penelope said the sign of a great career is the opportunity to say no to amazing positions. And that's just the thing. I have a great career, but I don't have a full-time staff position right now. I'm temping. I have turned down the Fortune 75 companies because the two jobs weren't right for me. I've been professionally "homeless" for a while now.
Luckily, all my temping experiences have also been amazing so I've actually enjoyed my job hunt and gotten a lot out of it. For some reason, the job hunt doesn't bother me. I see it as an adventure because you don't know what's going to happen or where you will land or who you will meet.
So, I thought I'd at least start a profile at Brazen Careerist and make the project sharing my love of reading and exploring being a newbie in the blogging world. I'm sure I'll learn a lot of things just by trying it out, which in the end is all that matters...
The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing. - John Powell
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Book Review: Womenomics: Write Your Own Rules for Success by Claire Shipman & Katty Kay
This book is not just for women! - 5/5 stars
I just finished reading this book the other day and I strongly encourage everyone to read it whether you are a young professional, an HR manager, or even just a regular employee. This book sheds a lot of light on the struggles many working professionals have. How does one balance work and life?
Their answers, statistics, and personal stories demonstrate that it's definitely possible, it's smart for companies to allow flexibility at work, and it's a growing movement among smarter companies that adapt to what women and working professionals want.
I hope this book ceases to be necessary in 20 years. May the changes that are being implemented now take such a strong force on the landscape of employment that the information contained within becomes irrelevant.
Granted, that's not a standard review for a book, but that's how vital and necessary the information within it is...
Book Review: Good In A Room by Stephanie Palmer
A MUST-READ FOR EVERYONE and ANYONE - 5/5 stars
Before I explain why this is an excellent book, I'll give you some relevant background information.
I spent 6 years working directly for three well-known, high-profile, respected Chairman/CEO billionaires within the business and entertainment industries. What Stephanie writes is EXACTLY what I observed day in and day out, firsthand and up close, every single day. Her book provides the insight, rationale, and step-by-step business etiquette that most people don't have the opportunity to learn, practice, or get exposed to. I was extremely grateful and lucky in that regard. Stephanie's book closes the gap of the age old catch-22. To get invited into the room, one needs to have a lot of experience, to get experience one needs to constantly have successful meetings.
I actually finished the book in one sitting, in 4 hours, because I was that excited to read it. It was extremely well-written and could have been called "A Guide to Life" because not only is it about business acumen, but also the underlying foundation of inter and intra personal awareness. Fret not, it's written clearly, concisely, in layman's terms with a dash of humor to boot! I'm one to read at least two or three books on one topic to get a well-rounded view and to have good critiques and comparisons. As an avid reader of business and entertainment business books, this one is up there with Covey's The Speed of Trust, Goleman's Emotional Intelligence/Social Intelligence, Maxwell's 25 Ways to Win with People, Ferrazzi's Never Eat Alone, and Swanson's Unwritten Rules of Management. If anything, her book surpasses theirs because this one covers the true basics and essentials that no one learns about until it's TOO LATE. She writes about the lessons no one talks about out loud because most often there is that belief that if it needs to be explained to someone they already don't "get it." You'll "get it" thoroughly after you read her book.
Good In A Room was spot on and there were even some tid bits I took away. The one I now follow religiously that I never did before takes 2 seconds. I now always answer yes to the first question one is usually asked upon arriving for a meeting. What is that first question? Stephanie taught me to always accept a beverage when they offer it to you. When you sign up for her free bi-weekly tips at her site, you'll find out why.
Happy reading and good luck! :)
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