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cmdmfr

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I would like to know if there are any suggestions from anyone out there that can give me help with changing careers. I had the misfortune of being laid off this week. I worked in construction all of my years, but now that I am in my late 50’s I would like to change careers. Is there any one out there that can give me any information how to move on, or any resources that I can access or contact. I live in the Delaware area
 

falmouth3

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Sorry to hear your bad news. It may be a blessing in disguise. Sometimes these things are.

Is your company providing any re-education benefits or help finding a new job? Even if they don't, your state may offer some special assistance for displaced workers over 40. I'd start out at the local employment office and see what they offer. Here in MA they have some wonderful programs to assess your skills and interests, help with interviewing skills, and job hunting tips. I know they also have a networking activity once a week so that people can share tips on companies that are looking for people, share their good news and generally give you an opportunity to get out of the house to meet with other people. Being out of work can make you feel quite isolated.

I wish you the best in the next stage of you life.

Sue
 

cmdmfr

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Sue thanks for all the wonderful info. My first step will be going to the unemployment office to see what they have to offer. I have had the opportunity to use some of their programs around 2000 so hopefully they still do have the programs running The only bad part is that I fell I have let my wife down but she so far has been very supportive of my actions.
 

falmouth3

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I'm sure you have nothing to feel guilty about. I'm in the biotech industry and I've had a couple of companies go out of business, and others downsize. I've taken the attitude that I've learned something valuable at each job that will make me more desirable to the next employer.

I'm also sure you'll have your ups and downs, but try to keep a positive attitude. Explore enjoyable things that don't cost a lot of money but will get you out of the house. Our libraries have passes for zoos, museums, etc. Maybe yours will too. Use resources at the library too. You never know where you'll find help in your searches. Go on picnics!

One tip that I received from a job search company years ago was to get business cards made up with your personal information such as phone number and email. If you talk to someone who may have some information about a job, you can give them your card so that they can contact you afterwards. Or you can write their contact info on the back of your own card. If you're not used to handing out a business card, it seems weird when you start, but my personal business cards have proven useful more than once! I got mine from vistaprint.com. They have a nice selection of free cards, but they charge a small free for shipping. If you don't have info to put in some areas of the areas of the card, leave them blank - they show you what the card looks like before you finish the order.

Tell anyone who will listen that you are looking for a job. Many jobs (some say up to 90%) are not advertised. Not kidding - my niece just got her dream job by talking to a waiter who worked with her at a restaurant. His friend was in a company that was looking for someone with her skill set.

You may also want to go to the library and borrow a copy of "What Color is your Parachute?". This is a job search book that also has guidance on how to decide what you want to do next for work.

Again, best wishes and good luck.

Sue
 

bobcat

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I would like to know if there are any suggestions from anyone out there that can give me help with changing careers. I had the misfortune of being laid off this week. I worked in construction all of my years, but now that I am in my late 50’s I would like to change careers. Is there any one out there that can give me any information how to move on, or any resources that I can access or contact. I live in the Delaware area

Try to network all you can. See what benifits your old co will give you. What about job training.? Buy the local paper and check the help wanted ads. What about a change in what you are doing. Check the local schools and see if they have anything. Are you a VET.?? They will help you. Do not feel quilty and you did not let your wife down. Sometimes, bad things happen to good people. Remenber, God Closes a DOOR and OPENS a WINDOW. Good luck.
 

ownsmany

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Best wishes as you start your search. It is true, often things like this turn in to blessings.

Don't feel that you let your wife down. So many companies are closing their doors or laying people off.

Keep us posted on your search.
 

Liz Wolf-Spada

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My brother, in his 50's, was laid off last Christmas from a high tech company and has been unemployed since, reevaluating what he wants to do. He is looking into training as an energy specialist who will be trained to evaluate energy efficiency in air ducts and such so people can get permits for AC etc. It seems there is a lot of movement in the new and alternate energy and conservation sectors.
Try to relax (easier said than done) and try not to take it personally (also easier said than done). Remember, when one door closes another one opens.
Liz
 

caribbean

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Hang in there. I have lost my job two time, and in both instances I ended up with a much better job. So take heart.

Another poster had a good suggestion about the personal cards. If oyu have access to a comuter and printer, you can buy blank cards in any od=ffice supply cards and make your own.

Good luck.
 

swift

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Just an idea but, what about contacting an organization such as Juvenile Hall to see if they need a wood-shop instructor. They have taken wood-shop out of many of the schools and replaced it with digital photography, environmental studies (another words-vineyard management for those that live in the wine countries), business, etc. However, these kids that are in places like Juvenile Hall need a skill they can learn to be productive. Many fall through the cracks because we have left them behind in the age of technology but these skills will still be forever needed and these types of kids usually enjoy working the trades.
 

tompalm

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With your background in construction, you could do well in managing community associations that involve high rises or multi unit buildings. A big part of the job is getting estimates for repairs and working with contractors. It is a tough job and someone is always complaining, but usually the hours are flexible and most of the work is done in an air conditioning office. Also, you could manage a commercial property. Neither one of those are great jobs, but there is good job security and benefits.
 

Htoo0

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Certainly don't take time away from your job search as that is priority #1 but if you find you have spare time, you might volunteer with something like Habitat for Humanity. You never know who you might meet there who will be impressed with your work ethics and help open a door for you. Best of luck!
 

falmouth3

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cmdmfr, I'm curious about what you found out on Monday.

I'd also like to know how you're doing.

Sue
 

Ginny

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I'm sorry to hear about your lay-off. We've been through it a couple of times in the last fifteen years. DH works in the computer field which is very up-and-down, due to technological changes and outsourcing. He dealt with it by doing contract work, studying, and taking certification exams to broaden his skills, and he eventually found a job where he really enjoys his work and coworkers the best of all the jobs he's had so far (fingers crossed, since there's another merger in the works).

Speaking as a wife, I took it in stride, although I get very anxious about uncertainty. Things become very simple, and you dig into your resources for common sense in cutting spending, figuring out your cash flow, and you may find it brings you closer together as you face this challenge together. It helped that I had a stable full-time job with benefits, and unemployment benefits cut the sting quite a bit. DH also took simple part-time work, even when he went back to school, to extend his unemployment grant.

I worked in a business library for several years. One reference source which is available freely on the web is the "Occupational Outlook Handbook." You can browse it to find information about different occupations, training, beginning salaries, and expected growth in various fields:

http://www.bls.gov/oco/oco1009.htm

One thought I had is that many people would love to hire someone to do 'honey-do' tasks -- those fix-it things that we're all too busy to do. You could take out a small ad in your local neighborhood newspaper. It might tide you over until you found something better.
 

Lawlar

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Good luck

You may also want to go to the library and borrow a copy of "What Color is your Parachute?". This is a job search book that also has guidance on how to decide what you want to do next for work.


Sue


I agree - a very helpful book. I have counseled many people who had lost their jobs. Unfortunately, in our world today it is a common occurance. Today's 20 year olds are predicted to have 5 career changes during their life.

This is a good time to also take care of yourself. If you can afford to take some time off then get some rest, visit with friends and family, and get some exercise. You will be more optimistic and do better in job interviews if you spend some time pampering yourself.

Treat the job search as a full-time job. Go to the career libary at the local college (if you went to college you can use their employment counseling and referals). Spend time every day looking at job ads and talking with contacts.

Good luck.
 

pcgirl54

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I am sorry to hear about your current situation. Here are some things to keep you busy and focus on your future. Moving in a new direction will make you feel much better although it will be scary at times. Challenging ourselves recharges us.

Here sites you will find useful that I used myself. They are from a professional advisor.

http://online.onetcenter.org

http://www.nextsteps.org/career/turn_on.html

http://www.typefocus.com


I am a Graduate Advisor in higher ed. I also use Indeed.com along with the standard ones.


I also suggest while considering a career change to meet with a Dean in a Community or State College who is in charge of the program you are considering. They provide a wealth of ideas. Community College to transfer compact with a State College or University is the least expensive way to a 4 yr degree if this is what you want to do.
 

Jim C

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Nursing?

cmdmfr, There seems to be an unending demand for RNs. Have you had any education or experience beyond the construction trades? Someone asked if you were a veteran, if you are, you may find some assistance through the VA. There may be some tuition assistance through them as well as your state agencies. In any event, nursing education has evolved through the community college system, at least in New York State, so that it's possible to become a Registered Nurse without going to a 4 year, B.S., program. The community colleges also have tuition assistance and other financial aid programs available. Best of luck to you.
 

cmdmfr

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found a job

Hi there Sue I took all the advice that every one has posted and used it to my advantage so it will benefit me. The Delaware dept of labor has a great program for unemployed workers. They have programs to get more education if you want, and help with changing your career. They have a program to help you compose a resumes a fax machine to fax your resumes, and a copier, and help with all the above. I had used the system before to benefit myself so for me the system is easy to use and quite helpful.
I spent quite a good bit of time looking in every nook and cranny for job sites and posting. Any posting that I have come across I contacted or filled out an application.
For a few of the postings all I did was leave phone number. I did receive a call yesterday evening and was asked if I was still interested in a job in which I said yes. I told my wife that I am not counting on anything to come out of this interview but I will go and see what they have to say. Long and be hold it turned out to benefit me and I was offered a job and accepted. The best part is I will make more than I made before and probably work more hours.

One thing that I was taught in my last lay off you got to work full time looking for a job and utilize all your resources and most of all your friends
 

falmouth3

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That's an incredible success story. Congratluations on landing a job so quickly! And one that actually pays better!:clap:

Sometimes these layoffs are actually a good kick in the pants to find something better. ;)

I hope you got a severance package that you can now spend on a timesharing vacation - once you have enough time built up for a vacation.

Sue
 

cmdmfr

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employed now

Sue
My new employer wanted me to go to work on the 25th but I told him I can not make it till the 2nd. This willl give me a week of rest before I get statred againn

The severence was just enough to pay several small bills off and take my biggest supporter to dinner

That is my lovely wife
 

Jestjoan

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Congrats!

Very speedy. That's great. I'm going to copy your info for DD#2's fiance' in AZ. I sure hope he has your success.
 

caribbean

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Congratulations !!!!
 
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