Newest articles on The Sacramento Press written by Brian Moffitt

Managing transition

2009-08-11T02:51:02Z

What kind of change is impacting you right now? Are you laid off? Is your job changing due to "doing less with less"? Have you graduated college and trying to start your career? Are you preparing for retirement? And, how do you react to change?

In my conversation with Becky Shook, Psychology Practitioner who helps individuals and groups move through transition, we explored the difference between change and transition and the six types of transition styles each of us tends to experience.

Change and transition are not the same. "Although used interchangeably, they are different", says Becky. "Change is the actual event or situation that occurs ... transition is the emotional space people move through [in response to the change]". For example, your job or organization may be changing; how you react to this change is the transition.

Becky shared six transition styles. While each of us can experience all of them to some extent, we tend to experience one or two most often. Which one do you think is your dominant transition style?

Style #1: Attachment. Individuals who exhibit this style tend to have fear and concern that relationships are going to be disrupted in some way. For example, as a result of a job change, you may have strong feelings that you will not be working with an individual or group as much or at all anymore.

Style #2: Turf. This kind of response includes two dimensions - physical work space and area of responsibility. For example, maybe the change will require you to move your work location and/or significantly change your job duties, both keep you up at night.

Style #3: Future. This style includes a preoccupation with how the change will impact your career or life path, including retirement plans. Feeling in control of your destiny, whether real or imagined, is crucial for people who gravitate toward this style.l

Style #4: Structure. Individuals who tend to default to this transition style are concerned about how the change will impact their daily routines. Becky adds: "We set up mental structures to get through our day. When change happens, those structures are no longer relevant".

Style #5: Meaning. Not knowing why a change is occurring is a huge disruption for individuals who fall into this style. This also includes job fulfillment. Becky says: "If you change a job and it's no longer fulfilling, that's a huge disruption".

Style #6: Control. Individuals who place high value on autonomy will tend to experience this style. How the change is going to affect ones ability to direct his or her own activities is on the top of the list of concerns.

Understanding your dominant transition style and those of others you lead or work with is the first step. Then you can focus on compensating. For example, if the dominant style in question is future, those impacted can do scenario planning, considering alternative futures that may be possible. Or, if the focus is structure, create new mental structures, guidelines or routines. Often these activities can positively affect the other transition styles, such as providing more meaning and control.

You can see my conversation with Becky on Sunday night's episode of Good Work NOW! on Channel 17 at 7:30 PM (or streamed via www.AccessSacramento.org). A ten minute preview/highlights segment is available here.

Please leave your questions or comments. Becky and I will be monitoring the discussion.

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Good Work NOW! is a non-commercial, public access TV talk show focusing on finding a job, developing your career or business, or improving the workplace and is a volunteer effort by all involved.

Volunteering for your personal and professional development

2009-08-04T01:36:55Z

There is more to volunteering than you think. I sat down with Mary Lynn Perry, the coordinator for the City of Sacramento’s award winning volunteer program, and author of the free “Get Involved: A How-to Volunteer Guide for Parents, Teachers and Youth”. She shared the many benefits of volunteering:

1) Gain New Skills: You can acquire professional work experience, whether you have just graduated from high school or college, want to change your career, or transition into retirement. Mary Lynn says: “A lot of people come into a volunteer experience looking to switch a career … they want to try out something for future employment or a part time job”. Molly Lynch, volunteer crewmember at Access Sacramento adds: “I share my skill and technical abilities in exchange for complete creative control of what I want to do. I work in both radio and tv already … I guess it's good practice calling the shots”.

2) Live Your Passion: You can finally do something with that pent up talent you have. Have you always wanted to work in the classroom but have been in retail for years? Volunteering can be the way to use that energy. There are so many places to volunteer. You can find the right place to channel your passion.

3) Social Networking: Most jobs that become available are known via social networks BEFORE they are posted. Networking can give you a competitive advantage in today’s tight job market. Mary Lynn notes “Someone tells you about a job way before it is advertised”. Jemuel Johnson, another volunteer shares: “Access Sacramento has been a great way for me to meet helpful people and understand media.” Volunteering is particularly valuable for individuals who tend to be introverts - when left to their own devices they hide in their home. Networking is essential for the newly retired who no longer have daily social interaction. The sudden loss of an “identity” and daily relationships can be devastating. Volunteering is also a way to meet that special someone, such as “Singles for Service”.

4) Personal Achievement: By helping others, you feel like you have accomplished something. Making a positive difference is always good medicine.

Mary Lynn (mperry@cityofsacramento.org) shared many resources for more information:

• City of Sacramento Volunteer Website: www.cityofsacramento.org/volunteers
• Volunteer Center of Sacramento: www.volunteersac.org
• Hands on Sacramento: www.handsonsacto.org
• National: www.volunteermatch.org
• Mayor Johnson’s Volunteer site: www.volunteersac.com

I would like to offer a special thanks to my volunteer crew who work on “Good Work NOW!”: Daniel J. Lorenzo (director), Tony Frontino, Jemuel Johnson, Molly Lynch and Marge McCreary (lights, cameras and audio).

QUESTIONS FOR READERS:

Mary Lynn Perry and I encourage readers to respond to the following questions to keep the discussion going:

1) What benefits have you gained from volunteering? 2) If you don't volunteer now, how might you in the future? 3) Do you have any questions or comments about volunteering?

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Good Work NOW! is a weekly, local public access TV talk show to help viewers find and create good work. The interview with Mary Lynn airs on Sunday, August 9, 7:30 - 8:00 PM on Channel 17. A 10 minute preview/highlights segment is available at www.goodworknow.com.

Life and death conversations at work

2009-07-22T17:37:23Z

We’ve all heard the phrase: “Some things are better left unsaid”. However, there are times when we need to say things. Sometimes conversations become crucial, and have life or death stakes.

I interviewed Desiree Aragon Nielson, Learning and Development Professional at Catholic Healthcare West / Mercy in Sacramento. Desiree has been certified in teaching “Crucial Conversations”, a best selling book (McGraw Hill) based on extensive research. She trains employees in her health care setting, noting that “In health care, it is life and death …we appreciate crucial conversations as a tool”.

1) What are Crucial Conversations? Based on the authors’ extensive research, Desiree says “three elements appeared when a conversation becomes crucial: strong emotions, opposing opinions and high stakes”. If employees entering into a conversation share strong emotions, possess opposing opinions on the subject and each have high stakes attached to the outcome, than that conversation becomes crucial and needs to happen.

2) Why are Crucial Conversations Important at Work? One of the main reasons, says Desiree, is “I may know something that’s important for us to get the benefits of good work”. She also references the book’s authors and says “we dumb down our responses and allow group think to take over”. We may also acquiesce to authority and not have a crucial conversation. The results can be tragic. For example, the 1986 Challenge shuttle disaster was a result of crucial conversations not happening when they should have. In Desiree’s health care setting, crucial conversations can mean the difference between life and death.

3) How do we Have Crucial Conversations? When Desiree conducts training she shares many tips, including “STATE” and “Contrasting Statements”:

STATE: This is an acronym: "State” what you observed (“My teammate Sam arrived again late to the our management presentation”), “Tell” your story (“I feel uncomfortable when Sam arrives late because I’m worry about our collective reputation"), “Ask” for Sam’s experience (“What was it like for you Sam coming in late to the presentation?”), “Talk Tentatively” (being open to your reality changing based on Sam’s response), and “Encourage Testing” (continually testing your assumptions of the situation based on the dialogue and the accumulating pool of shared meaning)

Contrasting Statements: Called “Don’t Want, Do Want”, these linking statements. Here's an example when someone you are talking to gets distracted by historical content: “I don’t want to loose sight of this historical information – I know what happened in the past is important here. What I do want from this point in time is to stay focused on what we want going forward”.

Questions for Sacramento Press Readers: How do you feel about crucial conversations? What helps or hinders your ability to have them in your work place? Desiree and I will be monitoring and participating in the discussion blog and look forward to your responses.

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Good Work NOW! is a weekly, local public access TV talk show featuring local experts to help viewers find and create good work. The interview with Desiree airs Sunday, July 26 at 7:30 PM on Channel 17. An abbreviated, 10 min version is available now at www.goodworknow.com

Marketing makeover for your career or business

2009-07-14T02:57:10Z

Does your career or business need a marketing makeover? Executive coach Laura Perez (www.epiphanycoaching.net) shares eight of her marketing makeover “treatments” from her career coaching sessions and seminars:

1) Know Your C.O.B.S. Before you market yourself, be clear on what you want - the Career you want, the Opportunities that are available, the kind of Boss you want to work for, and the Salary you are willing to accept.
2) Be a Problem Solver. Clearly understand and communicate how you can solve problems. Laura says: “Today’s companies want problem solvers, money savers and out of the box thinkers”. Make sure your resume conveys that.
3) Conduct Informational Interviews. Interview others that hold positions or work in industries or companies you are interested in. Ask about the job or business requirements, challenges, work culture, and so on. Laura says: “People will be surprised on how helpful others want to be”. People generally enjoy giving informational interviews.
4) Brand Yourself. Branding is not just for a business or company, but for an individual as well. Laura says: “How are you going to stand out? What are your unique qualities?” She adds: “What you perceive you can conceive”, meaning self perception and confidence are essential for portraying a positive brand or image.
5) Prepare and Practice Your Elevator Pitch. Most job seekers or business owners have 2 minutes or less to convey their pitch, which is essentially your brand. It should convey your goal, skills and what you need (click here for a sample elevator pitch).
6) Network Yourself. Force yourself to attend business mixers, network events, conferences and professional association events. Also, create professional or business pages on all the social networking sites, such as Facebook, LinkIn, and Twitter.
7) Provide Useful Handouts. Customize and pass out helpful information and tips at mixers, presentations and network events. Find out what others need and give it to them in a concise, practical manner (click here for a sample marketing handout).
8) Explore Joint Ventures. Think about the needs of your customers or clients that you cannot serve; maybe you can connect with another business or professional that can. This will increase your network and cross referrals.

To learn more, you can watch Laura Perez on “Good Work NOW!” this Sunday, July 19, 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Access Sacramento Channel 17. An abbreviated, 10 minute version of the episode is available at www.goodworknow.com

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Good Work NOW! Is a weekly, non-commercial public access television show produced at Access Sacramento and is a volunteer effort by all involved. Its mission is to help viewers find a job, develop their career or business or improve morale or productivity. It airs every Sunday evening at 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Channel 17 and streams at www.AccessSacramento.org, with an encore broadcast/streaming on Monday, 11:30 – 12:00 noon. The purpose of this weekly column is to share key points and tips from each week’s episode and invite readers to watch the program if they want more details. If you have any questions or comments or have a story or expertise that will help others find or create good work, please email brianmoffitt@comcast.net.

Job Fulfillment

2009-07-08T01:25:56Z

On June 30, 2003, John St. John, CEO of Skill Tree, had a dream that would inspire a book and new way of thinking about job fulfillment: “I had a great career but something was missing, something didn’t feel right.” In what I called “a small book with a big heart”, St. John’s book, “The Gift Table” (www.skilltree.net), is an engaging metaphor that gave me a new perspective on job and life fulfillment.

In his dream, St. John was transported to a place with beautiful green hills and a picnic table that seemed to stretch around the world. People began showing up at the table; when they arrived at the table, a gift appeared before them. He explained, “Everyone has a gift to share with others. If you don’t share that gift, than life is not fulfilling.” So, the key to job fulfillment is getting your “giftedness in gear”. His book includes “Ten Gift Tenets” – we focused on four of them:

Expanding Your Comfort Zone: We need to venture outside our comfort zone; he adds: “Our comfort zone should be ever expanding”. For example, someone whose gift is writing can use that gift in new areas, such as starting a blog at work.

Quiet Reflection: St. John suggested: “In order to find out what’s inside you, you’re going to need to spend time reflecting”. We all leave ourselves clues about our gift. Think about those times you feel fulfilled in life or at work is a good start. Why did you feel fulfilled? What gift was at work? It’s like you're an onion and you're peeling the layers to get to the core.

Doing What is You: “For everyone, we have something we do that comes relatively easy compared to others who have to work really hard”, St. John said. Many of us have obligatory roles in life, such as parent, manager, worker, etc. However, each of us has at least one gift that is truly us and truly gives us joy. He adds there are two things you can do to achieve fulfillment: operating in your gift or drawing from someone else’s gift.

The Power of Charity: St. John transcends the idea of giving because a person is in need: “By giving your gift, you may be filling an entire group or community”. When we are in our “gift zone”, we become a magnet or attractor – people naturally like being around others that are in their gift zone. This results in new relationships, new ideas and new synergy.

You can watch my discussion with John St. John on Sunday, July 12, 7:30 – 8:00 PM on "Good Work NOW!" on Access Sacramento Channel 17. An abbreviated, 10 minute version of the episode is available at www.goodworknow.com

Background / Disclosure:

The purpose of this article is to share key points and tips from my interviews and discussions with local residents and experts about work issues and invite readers to watch it on "Good Work NOW!" if they want more details. Good Work NOW! is a weekly, non-commercial public access television show produced at Access Sacramento and is a volunteer effort by Brian Moffitt, his guests and crew (Daniel Lorenzo, Jemuel Johnson, Molly Lynch, Marge McCreary, and Scott Trend). Brian Moffitt received his doctorate in education from the University of San Diego, is the Organizational Development Manager for the City of Sacramento and adjunct graduate faculty with the University of San Francisco. "Good Work NOW!" is a 30 minute talk show and its mission is to help viewers find a job, develop their career or business or improve morale or productivity. It airs every Sunday evening at 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Channel 17 and streams at www.AccessSacramento.org, with an encore streaming every Monday, 11:30 – 12:00 noon. If you have any questions or comments or have a story or expertise that will help others find or create good work, please email brianmoffitt@comcast.net.

Good Work NOW!: "Toxic Co-workers"

2009-06-30T00:10:59Z

According to the April 2009 edition of the Harvard Business Review, toxic behavior in the workplace significantly decreases work effort, quality, morale and commitment. We are seeing more toxic behavior at work as a result of more negative emotions associated with the recession. So, it's important we take some time to look at this issue.

Joining me on the next episode of “Good Work NOW!” is leadership consultant Steve Sphar. Steve and I discuss toxic behavior – what it is and why it’s important to address, explore some interesting insights about perception and demonstrate a four step process that anyone can use to make a positive difference.

Steve defines toxic behavior as “a type of behavior that causes strong negative emotions in others”. He adds that there is a continuum - sometimes we perceive others’ behavior as simply annoying; it becomes “toxic” when it generates strong negative emotions in us, such as fear and anger. Typical examples of toxic behavior include bullying, gossiping, taking credit for others’ work, and victimhood (chronic complaining, whining and persistent negativity).

He emphasizes that perception plays a critical role: “If we define toxic behavior as something that generates negative emotions … emotion is a factor of interpretation”. For example, let’s say a co-worker slams a book on a table during a staff meeting. One colleague could perceive that behavior as enthusiasm, another could perceive the same behavior as aggressive.

Steve shares four steps for assertively communicating with co-workers that you perceive to be exhibiting toxic behavior:

Step 1: State Your Intention. Tell the co-worker that you would like to talk with them: “Joe, can I have a few minutes of your time to talk with you about something that I’m concerned about?”

Step 2: State Objective Facts. Describe the behavior in terms that Joe is likely to agree with: “This morning at the staff meeting when you slammed the book on the table …”

Step 3: State the Impact on You. Describe how you felt when you observed the behavior: “…it made me feel uncomfortable”.

Step 4: State Your Request. Ask for something different in the future. “I would like to ask that in the future you not slam your book on the table.”

Steve adds that we cannot control other people. But, we can control how we act. He adds: “A lot of the time the person doing the [toxic] behavior doesn’t know they’re doing it and when you call them on it, they’ll stop. Sometimes people just don’t know; they don’t get the feedback”. By being assertive, individuals can neutralize toxic cycles in the workplace. If we ignore it or mirror it back, we may be contributing to the toxic cycle and becoming a toxic co-worker ourselves.

You can watch Steve conduct a perception test and the two of us role play his four steps on Sunday, July 5, 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Access Sacramento Channel 17. An abbreviated, 10 minute archived episode is available for free at www.goodworknow.com.

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Background / Disclosure:

Good Work NOW! is a weekly, non-commercial public access television show produced at Access Sacramento and is a volunteer effort by Brian Moffitt, my guests and crew (Daniel Lorenzo, Jemuel Johnson, Molly Lynch, Marge McCreary, and Scott Trend). This 30 minute talk show features local experts and our mission is to help viewers find a job, develop their career or business or improve morale or productivity. It airs every Sunday evening at 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Channel 17 and streams at www.AccessSacramento.org, with an encore streaming every Monday, 11:30 – 12:00 noon. The purpose of this weekly column is to share key points and tips from each week’s episode and invite readers to watch the program if they want more details. If you have any questions or comments or have a story or expertise that will help others find or create good work, please contact me at brianmoffitt@comcast.net or visit our website at www.goodworknow.com.

Good Work NOW!: Emotional intelligence

2009-06-24T13:34:55Z

Are you aware of your emotions at any given moment? And, how effective are you at managing them at work? Dr. Mitchel Adler, author of “Promoting Emotional Intelligence in Organizations”, joins me, Brian Moffitt, this week on “Good Work NOW!” for a discussion of emotional intelligence, what it is and why it’s important at work.

Unlike general intelligence (ie, “IQ Scores”), emotional intelligence can be learned and improved over time. Dr. Adler shares some tools that anyone can use to improve his or her emotional intelligence. We begin the show by exploring the four domains of emotional intelligence:

• Self Awareness is “knowing our own internal state”. Dr. Adler adds that there are four basic emotions – sad, glad, mad and scared. Our feelings consist of one or some combination of these four emotions. Jealousy, for example, is some blend of mad, sad and scared. Self awareness, which is the foundation for EI, means knowing at any given moment what you are feeling. For example, how do you feel when you receive negative feedback at work?

• Self Management is the “ability to manage our impulses”. This also includes self control, adaptability, taking initiative and having achievement drive. How many times have you impulsively acted on your emotions at work , committed "career suicide" and later came to regret it?

• Social Awareness is “ones ability to be aware of others’ needs, feelings and concerns”. The foundation for this domain is empathy. Not just the ability to sense the state of an individual, empathy also means the ability to sense what is going on in the organization. For example, employees with strong empathy are able to “read a room and know who has power”, says Adler. They can also sense the proverbial "elephant in the room".

• Social Skills means “having influence, the ability to induce desirable behavior in others”, explains Adler. This is essential for leadership, conflict management and collaborating with others.

Dr. Adler cites his own research that proves that emotional intelligence can improve the bottom line, such as increased productivity and decreased absenteeism, grievances, worker’s compensation claims and health problems. He also shares many tools that employees can use to strengthen their emotional intelligence.

The complete 30 minute episode will air on Sunday, June 28, 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Access Sacramento Channel 17. An abbreviated, 10 minute archived episode is available for free at www.goodworknow.com.

Background / Disclosure:

Good Work NOW! is a weekly, non-commercial public access television show produced at Access Sacramento and is a volunteer effort by Dr. Brian Moffitt, his guests, and crew. Brian earned his doctorate in educational leadership from the University of San Diego, is the Organizational Development Manager for the City of Sacramento and teaches for the University of San Francisco's Master's in Organization Development program. This 30 minute talk show features local experts to help viewers find a job, develop their career or business or improve morale or productivity. It airs every Sunday evening at 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Channel 17 and streams at www.AccessSacramento.org, with an encore streaming every Monday, 11:30 – 12:00 noon. The purpose of this weekly column is to share key points and tips from each week’s episode and invite readers to watch the program if they want more details. If you have any questions or comments or have a story or expertise that will help others find or create good work, please contact Brian at brianmoffitt@comcast.net or visit www.goodworknow.com.

Good Work NOW!: Generations in the Workplace

2009-06-17T13:11:13Z

Disclosure: Good Work NOW! is a weekly, non-commercial public access television show produced at Access Sacramento and is a volunteer effort by me, my guests and crew. This 30 minute talk show features local experts and our mission is to help viewers find a job, develop their career or business or improve morale or productivity. It airs every Sunday evening at 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Channel 17 and streams at www.AccessSacramento.org, with an encore streaming every Monday, 11:30 – 12:00 noon. The purpose of this weekly column in Sacramento Press is to share key points from each week’s episode and invite readers to watch the program if they want more details. If you have any questions or comments or have a story or expertise that will help others find or create good work, please contact me at brianmoffitt@comcast.net or visit our website at www.goodworknow.com.

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For the first time in history, there are now four generations working side by side in the workplace. Each has been shaped by significant events resulting in distinct influences, values and motivations. Whatever your role at work, understanding each generation closes the gaps and helps improve your communication and working relationships. That, in turn, makes for a better work environment.

Author and consultant Terri Bianco joins me this Sunday for a review of these four generations and how their diversity can impact and benefit your work. We look at the events that influenced their values, what motivates them, and what drives their behaviors – in short, what makes them tick. Terri offers guidance for how to best approach individuals from these various generations and addresses the value they bring to the workplace.
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• The Traditionalists, born 1900 – 1945, 77 million. Influenced by the Great Depression and two world wars, this generation’s respect for authority, patriotism and financial conservatism are paramount. Although only about 3% of this generation remain in the workforce, their legacy policies and infrastructures prevail. Terri adds that traditionalists “love to be asked their advice”.

• Baby Boomers, born 1946 – 1964, 80 million. This generation was influenced by the post- war economic boom as well as civil unrest resulting in shared values to expand, consume, challenge and change. Their imminent retirements are expected to leave a significant talent gap in the workplace. Many will probably not retire completely, opting to work part time or serve as consultants. Like the traditionalists, Terri notes, “they also like being asked how to do things”.

• Generation X, born 1965 – 1980, 46 million. This generation was exposed to Watergate, Chernobyl, and corporate scandals resulting in skepticism and questioning of authority: “They don’t necessarily respect authority since they have seen it screw up too many times,” says Terri. Typically, Gen X grew up with both parents working and so became known as “latch key kids,” coming home to an empty house. Consequently, “they developed a strong sense of independence. As a generation, they tend to be flexible, and want portable careers,” Terri points out. They prefer to work independently since that is how they grew up.

• Millenials, born 1981 – 1999, 76 million. This generation has been exposed to technology 24/7. Terri indicates they are “hopeful and want to give back and make a difference.” As with Generation X, Millenials crave more work/life balance. Technologically savvy, they also have a keen desire to give back. Managers would do well to give them challenges and, as Terri recommends, “Ask them what they know. Listen and learn what they have to say. “

The complete 30 minute episode will air on Sunday, June 21, 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Access Sacramento Channel 17. An abbreviated, 10 minute version is available now at http://www.goodworknow.com/Video_Segments.html

This Week on "Good Work NOW!": The Future of Work

2009-06-09T01:11:57Z

Are you and your children prepared for the work world of tomorrow? Imagine working where you want , how you want, and when you want as long as you deliver what is expected of you. This shatters the traditional, artificiality of a 40 hour work week in a central office location with a single employer following procedures that no longer work. Tomorrow’s workforce will be mobile, virtual, dynamic and focused on outcomes.

Karen Arnold and Kevin Williams from Future Decisions LLC join me this Sunday night on “Good Work NOW!”. They paint a fascinating and hopeful glimpse of the future of work, including changing demographics, new industries and technology, sustainability and the nature of work relationships. I felt we explored a new work paradigm and, after the taping of the show, felt both liberated and optimistic.

“Baby boomers are living longer”, says Karen Arnold, prompting a “huge increase in the need for health care workers.” Information technology security will also be in demand, adds Arnold.

According to Kevin Williams, “younger workers demand more work/life balance.” He adds that they don’t automatically bow to authority like previous generations. In other words, positional authority may no longer be enough for leaders - they need to rely more on credibility and influence. And, leadership won't just be for those in positions of authority. Rather, leadership will be afforded to any member of the team based on their respective role and expertise.

To learn more, tune in Sunday night for "Good Work NOW!" at 7:30 - 8:00 PM on Channel 17 (Comcast, Surewest, AT&T or live stream at www.AccessSacramento.org; encore streaming Monday, June 8, 11:30 am - 12:00 noon). For more information, visit www.goodworknow.com.

This Sunday on "Good Work NOW!": Free Job Services

2009-06-02T04:02:02Z

Want to go to "Boot Camp" - an intensive one day interview preparation workshop? "These and other services are FREE", explains Richard Bunch and Bill Grimaldi, Workforce Coordinators from Job Link, offered by the County of Sacramento Department of Human Assistance.

Job Link also provides "Job Talks" at each of the 10 sites throughout Sacramento County. At "Job Talks" employers come in and talk about their job openings and offer tips to help you stand out in the crowd, which makes the difference in this competitive job market. Employers also benefit as Job Link provides free recruitment and orientation services. Some Job Link sites hold periodic job fairs. Richard Bunch emphasizes that attendance at a job fair "is an interview ... you need to dress the part, research the employers that will be there, and have several customized versions of your resume ready."

This Week on Good Work NOW!: "What it Takes to be an Entrepreneur"

2009-05-27T01:53:45Z

Are you laid off? Are you in a dead end job? Is it time to put your passion to work? If you answered yes to any of these questions, maybe it’s time for you to become an entrepreneur and start your own business. But do you have what it takes?

Entrepreneur and “mergeronomist” Larry Mandelberg joins me for an insightful conversation Sunday night on “Good Work NOW!” on Channel 17 at 7:30 PM.

Larry says that an entrepreneur is “someone that sees something that others don’t - they bring new ideas to old ideas and create something that hasn’t existed before”.

He adds that successful entrepreneurs are “curious and always learning” and “have a high tolerance for risk”. One point that he made during the taping of the show that still resonates with me is that your passion or vision needs to be strong enough to carry you through the time times - being an entrepreneur or small business owner is replete with challenges.

During the show, Larry also shares his perspectives on the benefits of being an entrepreneur, challenges, common pitfalls, keys to success, funding and other resources to help you start your own business or improve the one you have.

Good Work NOW! is a weekly television talk show that focuses on finding or creating good work, produced at the Access Sacramento studios. It airs every Sunday night, 7:30 – 8:00 PM, on Channel 17 (Comcast, Surewest, AT&T or steamed at www.AccessSacramento.org). More information is available at www.goodworknow.com.

This Sunday on "Good Work NOW!": Yoga and Meditation at Work

2009-05-22T04:05:03Z

The next time you find yourself unable to stop worrying about something at work, try doing some yoga or meditation right in your workspace. That’s right – you don’t need to go to the gym, take numerous classes, or have a private office or yoga mat! You also won’t feel awkward doing it at work.

Yoga and meditation instructor, Shakti, joins me this Sunday on “Good Work NOW!” on Channel 17 at 7:30 PM.

I first met Shakti in 2004 when I took a yoga class as part of my grief recovery when my partner died suddenly in 2003. That class was a positive, healing experience. The words that come to my mind that best describe Shakti are calming, centered, peaceful, uncomplicated and wise.

On Sunday’s episode of “Good Work NOW!” she demonstrates several simple yoga poses and stretches, which will make you feel revitalized. This is much better and cheaper than grabbing junk food to get some energy, particularly during the afternoon or before and/or after a stressful meeting or customer interaction.

“Meditation should be simple; if it’s not, you’re not doing it right”, says Shakti. “Don’t try to fight negative, compulsive thoughts”, sbe adds . Rather, allow the thoughts; but at the same time take in information from your other senses, such as smells, sights, sounds, and tactile sensations. Eventually, “your compulsive thoughts will simply fade”.

I tried this myself and my rumination about a stressful work situation did in fact fade. She shares another meditation technique on the show that is equally, if not more, effective.

"Good Work NOW!" is a new television talk show that focuses on finding or creating good work. It is on every Sunday, 7:30 – 8:00 PM, on Channel 17 (Comcast, Surewest, AT&T or steamed at www.AccessSacramento.org). More information is available at www.goodworknow.com.

Removing "Unnecessary" Stress

2009-05-12T23:46:27Z

Many of us feel trapped or victimized by our stress. In fact, however, "most of our stress is unnecessary - it can be removed", says consultant and wellness advocate Lynn Belzer. She adds that "we should save our energy for managing the stress we can't remove from our lives". Join Lynn and host Dr. Brian Moffitt discuss what is stress, how to remove unnecessary stress, and how to manage the stress "we are stuck with", such as "giving stress less air time". One technique they discuss is making a list of all the things that are causing stress in your life. Then review the list and determine which stressors you actually have a choice about - therein lies your control. To learn more, including Lynn's "Stress Management Improvement Guide", tune into "Good Work NOW!" on Sunday, May 17, 7:30 - 8:00 PM, Channel 17 (Comcast, Surewest, AT&T or live stream at www.AccessSacramento.org, encore streaming on Monday, May 11, 11:30 AM - 12:00 Noon).

Workplace Wellness Check-up

2009-05-06T00:29:05Z

IGiven all the stressors impacting individuals, teams and organizations in today's economy, how would you rate your workplace wellness or your work-life balance? Kristin Mortensen, the City of Sacramento Wellness Coordinator, is the featured guest on Sunday's episode of "Good Work NOW!". Mortensen and host Dr. Brian Moffitt begin by sharing the City's definition of wellness: "being your own personal best". They walk through the six dimensions of wellness: emotional, intellectual, occupational, physical, social and spiritual. Although each dimension is distinct, they all overlap. For example, perhaps you are pursuing a new career (occupational wellness). This could positively impact other dimensions as well, such as social, intellectual, and emotional. Mortensen and Moffitt emphasize how it's important for each individual, team and organization to conduct a self assessment and focus on a change that will bring balance to all six dimensions. The more balance we have in our lives, the happier and healthier we will be. To learn more, watch "Good Work NOW!" on Sunday, May 10, 7:30 - 8:00 PM, Channel 17 (Comcast, Surewest, AT&T or live stream at www.AccessSacramento.org, encore streaming on Monday, May 11, 11:30 AM - 12:00 Noon).

Career Resilience

2009-04-30T03:12:42Z

In today's job market, it's important to be career resilient. Dr. Maureen White, President-Elect of the California Career Development Association and Jeff Dunn, Corporate Recruiter, join host Dr. Brian Moffitt on Sunday's edition of Good Work NOW!, May 3, 7:30 - 8:00 PM on Channel 17 (Comcast, Surewest, AT&T or live stream at www.AccessSacramento.org, encore streaming Monday, May 4, 11:30 - 12:00 Noon). The show features a discussion of many of Dr. White's tips for achieving career resilience, including:

1) Diversify Your Economic Base - Take a good look at your skills and see which ones are transferable to other jobs or careers.

2) Share Virtual Space - Consider sharing a website (or office space) with other professionals to reduce costs and facilitate networking.

3) Make the Most of Change - There is often a silver lining during change, where new relationships, ideas, and opportunities emerge - you need to keep you eyes open.

4) Be Proversity - Proactively seek out new and different relationships and activities to enhance your overall skill and talent repertoire.

5) Give Back - Sometimes giving back to the community as a volunteer or mentor will give you a sense of accomplishment while continuing your job search; this may also lead to posted and unposted job leads.

6) Get a Theme Song - Play your favorite song in your car or at home. Put together your own song list to keep you inspired and moving in a positive direction.

7) Be a Boundary Spanner - Participate in new networking or professional activities that you haven't pursued in the past; lean into discomfort to stretch yourself personally and professionally.

8) Get Moving - Get off the couch and out of the house. Make a job out of finding a job. Structure your days with productive activities, such as visiting Sacramento Works, having coffee with a colleague, or conducting an informational interview with someone in a job or career you are pursuing.

9) Clear the Clutter - Clean out the closet or garage - organize your space so you are job ready when the time comes. Clearing clutter can also clear your mind, keeping you focused and less distracted.

10) Job Clubs - Research and participate in job clubs to stay connected with other professionals and job seekers.

To learn more, watch "Good Work NOW!:", the only show for finding and creating good work. You can also view archived segments from past shows or read Dr. White's complete article: "Making Ends Meet and Making The Job Journey Meaningful - 2009 Reflections and Tips on Getting Work and Managing a Career" by visiting the "Tools and Tips" section at www.goodworknow.com.

Free Career and Business Services

2009-04-22T15:31:39Z

The 12 Sacramento Works Career Centers throughout the Sacramento region offer free career and business services to individuals and employers. Individuals can receive free career counseling and help with resumes, interviewing skills, networking, and job search. In addition, current and prospective entrepreneurs can receive help with starting or expanding their own business at one of the four business information centers. Employers can receive free assistance with recruiting and training your workforce. There are a variety of library materials that you can check out as well as workshops. For more information, watch "Good Work NOW!" on Sunday, April 26, 7:30 - 8:00 PM on Channel 17 (Comcast, Surewest, AT&T or live stream at www.AccessSacramento.org). Join host Dr. Brian Moffitt and guests Terri Carpenter and Saundra Williams from Sacramento Works and Joe Carlotti from the Employee Development Department. "Good Work NOW!" is a weekly dicussion program featuring local experts focusing on finding a job, developing your career or business, or improving morale or productivity.

What it Takes to be an Entrepreneur

2009-04-18T03:53:25Z

Larry Mandelberg, entrepreneur and "mergeronomist" appears on "Good Work NOW!" on Sunday, April 19, 7:30 PM on Channel 17 (Comcast., Surewest, AT&T or live stream www.accesssacramento.org). Mandelberg, who has had 9 successful businesses, discusses what it takes to be an entrepreneur, including "vision, performance and morale". Your vision needs to be strong enough to carry you through the hardwork. He also shares that most entrepreneurs have to wear many hats. "Mergeronomy" is the study of bringing separate groups or cultures together. Mandelberg is founding director of "Bullseye Integration". Good Work NOW! is a weekly cable show featuring local experts that focus on finding a job, developing your career or business, or improving morale and productivity. Visit www.goodworknow.com for more information and clips from past shows.

Small Business Realities and Resources

2009-04-09T14:16:18Z

Watch "Good Work NOW!" on Sunday, April 12, 7:30 PM on Channel 17 (Comcast, Surewest, AT&T) or live stream www.AccessSacramento.org. Guests Clarence Williams and Deborah Muramoto from California Capital discuss what you need to do to keep your entrepreneurial dream alive. Williams emphasizes the importance of having a "business plan", and knowing about "pricing, insurance, taxes", and so on. Muramoto explains their "finanical literacy" workshops, including permits, licensing, code enforcement, taxes, and programs that are "offered in 9 languages". Hosted by Organizational Development expert Dr. Brian Moffitt, Good Work NOW! is a weekly program with experts that discuss how to find a job, develop your career or business, or improve morale and productivity.

New Local Talk Show: Leadership vs. Management

2009-04-04T01:12:40Z

Check out the new weekly talk show on Access Sacramento called "Good Work NOW!" - the only show on TV for finding and creating good work. The show airs every Sunday at 7:30 PM on Channel 17 (Comcast, Surewest, AT&T) or live stream www.AccessSacramento.org). This Sunday join producer and host Dr. Brian Moffitt and local consultants Gail Mancarti and Steve Sphar as they differentiate leadership and management and explain what successful leaders to and how to develop your leadership skills.