Sept 17, 2006

Ch-ch-ch check it Out!

Tags: Workplace Survival Strategies,

I recently blogged about using your interview with a new company as a way of gauging the real work environment. Some folks responded that many companies were careful to restrict where you could go and whom you could speak to until you were hired, and possibly after. I know this is true because one of the radio stations I worked for was the absolute pits-and fed B.S. to newbies as long as possible.

So, what to do? Let me suggest something that seems to be working for me...trial job shopping. If you're currently in a crappy job, see if you can start working part-time or even take a couple weeks of paid vacation to try out the place full-time. I know what you're thinking: why should I work during my paid time off? I would say that the rewards of finding a worthwhile position include less stress, more money, and greater opporunities. Heck, I've had of couple of jobs that were so cool, it was like taking an adventure vacation every day! So that's my goal...

Also, I've found that when others workers describe a successful colleague, it goes something like this...

"...and then there's Ed over there. He started about five years ago as a part-time reservations agent. The idiot who ran the department left, so he went full-time, and worked with sales and marketing on the side. Then he was made front office manager about a year ago. I hear he might be considered for the general manager's position opening up, but he may be starting his own reservations agency or inn or something..."

Abusive companies like their slaves to be firmly chained to the deck. By showing them from day one that you won't play their game and taking advantage of companies needs for multi-tasking, multi-functioning individuals you can open up your options. Again, how many times have you heard that part-time or per diem people won't be subjected to some byzantine policy because of the fact that they're part-time or will simply leave.

I think it's worth the effort, and it's currently working for me. What do you think? Let's hear some feedback JobSchmobbers!

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