For the record

What have I applied for lately? well:

1. Online services manager WTMD Towson
2. Sinclair Broadcast Group
3. Web Content Specialist /Administrative Assistant
   

So what you don't know is my technology solutions internship ended and they offered me a job in a city and state that I did not want to live in...so I had to turn down the job. But everything happens for a reason, right? My gut told me to call back one of the places I had interviewed at in the beginning of the summer. Sure enough, they were about to run an ad in the paper the very next day looking for someone with my skill set! Horray!

Offline

While I didn't drop off the grid for the last month, I have been under the radar due to a 4 week internship. Believe me the last month would have provided me with plenty of blogeriffic fodder but sadly I was traveling without a personal laptop from which to write my blog. It was stressful being thrown into the deep end of the pool but like many experiences it was a learning opportunity.

Letters of rejections

The Space Telescope Science Institute sent me a rejection letter. They said I was impressive. I guess I just wasn't impressive enough, eh? Why is it that there aren't more potential employers sending out formal rejection letters? It seems a tad rude. Is it costly? I received a post-card from the NewsJournal upon rejection and maybe a few email rejections. But seriously, if I took the time to craft a well thought out cover letter for you...can't you cook up a nice rejection letter for me? Dang, ya know I'd just rather be accepted than rejected. This positive thoughts. Yadda, yadda, yadda.

willingness to relocate

My email of the week comes from half way across the country. They're advertising my dream job or interface designer. Perhaps it is my dream position but it is sadly not in my dream or realistic geographical region. And it goes a little something like this:
"I'm a recruiter with Epic Systems Corporation and I came upon your resume on CareerBuilder. It looks like your background and interests could be a match for our User Interface Design position. Epic is a healthcare software company based in Madison, WI, and we're currently looking for someone who is looking to use their artistic and technical skills to design more efficient and attractive software.

As a User Interface Designer you'll play a vital role in our development process by steering interface design, creating prototypes, researching the user experience, and collaborating with teams of software developers to promote user-centered design. Candidates should have a degree or substantial coursework in Human Computer Interaction, Interaction Design or have demonstrated experience designing usable interfaces. In addition, we look for a minimum of a bachelor's degree, a history of academic and professional success and a willingness to relocate to Madison, WI.

For more information, or to apply, please visit: http://www.epicsystems.com/jobs"

Yeah so about that

Wednesday's interview was in the Wanamaker Building on the Augustine Cut Off. All in all the experience was fruitful and easy to find. It included 3 interviewers and 3 interviewees (like me). The other candidates in the meeting were surprisingly varied and older than I expected. The 8 people were quite a mix of black, white, young, old, but mostly short as I was the youngest, skinniest, and tallest. Perhaps older programmers need to hit the gym more often to get the circulation going. Hmmm.

Anyhow, there was a quick info session (aka death by power point) and then alot of sitting around making small talk while waiting one's turn for an interviewer. The presentation was short but the interview was candid and short. The time passed more quickly once I actually got to ask specific questions of the interviewer and they asked questions of me. The offer includes 4-weeks of grunt level training with a language for SAP called ABAP at minimum wage and then a nearly expected offer of a real programming job. It's hard to pass up an opportunity that pays me just as much as if I was joining the State Police. Programming is so much safer, ya know?

Switching gears, on Friday I interviewed with the BaltimoreSun.com and it was a bust. For sure it was my worst interview. I've been reassured that we all have them. Unfortunately the roofer's called me about my parents house/roof thrice in total on Friday; once while I was on my way out the door to my interview and then while I was in my interview and again after I hastily switched my phone to silent. I realize it's my fault but interview was pretty much ruined by that point. They were "just calling to double check and make sure that" I got their previous message. I was so embarassed when my phone rang in the middle of the interview. How unprofessional! Why didn't I leave my phone in the car? or put it on silent before? Arrrrrgh! I really wanted that job but it looks like my focus may now shift from Baltimore to more like the Philly area. Hello PANMA!!

Compounding interest

CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield must have a thing for compound words. Anyway, I did apply there this evening to their Owings Mills location. Last time I tried to apply to their multi-step online career site, my computer upchucked all the information I typed in along with the login as I had a re-draw function problem and subsequently a major crash. I probably just had too many windows open but what else is new.

The word of the day is bachelor. Make sure you spell it correctly on all resumes. Merriam Webster's definition for bachelor is as follows: 1 : a young knight who follows the banner of another 2 : a person who has received what is usually the lowest degree conferred by a 4-year college, university, or professional school <bachelor of arts>; also : the degree itself bachelor3 a : an unmarried man b : a male animal (as a fur seal) without a mate during breeding time of laws>

Bacharach attack

In the words of the great Mr. Burt Bacharach, I am "wishing and hoping and thinking and praying" because I still need a job. My interview last week at the institute went well or at least I think so. Yesterday I wrote them a thank you letter and today it will go out in the mail. Keep your fingers, toes, arms, and legs crossed for me to get this one. I'd really fit in well with their software engineering department. I'd be comfortable working there. I hope it works out and if it doesn't that there is something even better.

The other boat on the horizon is the one that includes training in a new programming language for me. I don't have a great deal of enthusiasm for becoming a code monkey but I know it as a familiar niche. The programming interview is scheduled for the first of the month and I will be staying up there for an unrelated dinner party.

Jumping hoops

So today I took an hour long skills assessment quiz online. It was 40 questions and it took about an hour. They were mostly programming and logic questions. The test is just another thing in a long line of hoops I've jumped through to get this programmers interview and possible training spot. Guess what question appeared? The million dollar boxes logic question! If it sounds familiar you may recall a breakfast at Ihop. Do read Q below:

You are applying for a programming job with a company that wants to test your logic skills. The interviewer presents you with five boxes labeled 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. One of the boxes contains an employment contract. Each box has a card with a clue written on it. The interviewer gives you one hint – "at least one of the notes are false". Which box contains an employment contract?

Box 1 – “Employment contract is inside!”
Box 2 – “Employment contract is inside!”
Box 3 – “Employment contract is not inside.”
Box 4 – “Employment contract is not inside.”
Box 5 – “Employment contract is inside Box 3.”

wading through crap

This afternoon has not brought good web searching. My inbox was mostly full of junk today. Accenture Tech. Sol. post-phone interview requests that I take an hour long online skills assessment before Sunday but since I'm not at home right now, that's a little near impossible. Panma listserv gave some leads on Comcast jobs. In another email I was contacted by a bank in Dover saying "We found your resume and are very impressed! We believe you have the qualifications we're looking for to fill our open agent position". As you already know, South Moon Under rejected me for their production assistant job. I was surprised to receive any correspondence letting me know one way or another the status of my application. I though my phone interview with them was very good. I guess it was not good enough. I haven't heard anything about my state application. I checked hotjobs, monstertrak, and workBaltimore.com today but nothing really panned out and it's getting really depressing and frankly, frustrating. Well, the optimist in me says, "At least you have health insurance again" and "we did apply to a few jobs today": Annodyne and ING Direct and whatever other coverletters and things I'd see in my sent messages box.

South Moon Under Rejection notice

Dear ___,
Thank you for your interest in employment with _______. We have reviewed your resume and have carefully considered your qualifications. While your skills are certainly impressive, we have decided to pursue other candidates for the ______ position. We will maintain your records for a period of time. Should a position open that matches your qualifications we will contact you. Again, thank you for your interest in employment with _______.

Applications not APIs

Recent applications include:

1. MD Dept of HR - Admin. Assist.
   
2. Goldman Promotions Inc. - Sales Support/Cust. Svc.
   
3. Mission Media - developer/designer
4. Imre Communications - web production
5. Congruent Media - Interactive Producer, Front-end Developer
6. Tradewindsstudio.com - graphic t-shirt artist
7. yadda, yadda, yadda
   

Calls from Telephones

Today was the day for telephone calls. I called about a dozen people. First I called Diamond Technologies of the town of New Castle about an on site interview and obtaining more job details. We've been emailing back and forth and things are looking good with them, I'm just waiting for another call. Then I spoke with South Moon Under for a production assistant and learned they're paying on an hourly wage around $12. They wanted to know about my photoshop training and photography skills.

Next I straightened out two insurance issues. I forgot to mention earlier, that I do in fact have insurance and have evidently had it all along although I didn't know it because there was a letter set in December that misled me. I have my insurance card. My claims are on their way to being resubmitted. Evidently there's a recent law passed in Delaware allowing me to keep my insurance! Sing praises!

Then I worked on keeping a roof over my head. That was the next six phone calls for estimates. Two different companies will come over tomorrow morning for measurements. I also made two web-design phone calls and after that I multi tasked while waiting for callbacks. I got one from the ER and another from the Space Telescope Institute.

Hurrah! Dancing on the ceiling! Going to the city next week to the Hopkins University campus to interview. I'll stay over night beforehand to be well rested. How exciting this is! I can't wait to tell my family.

applications done

recently applications included

1. Dunbar Armored - Graphics coordinator
2. Round 2 Communications @R2integrated.com
3. Kennedy Krieger Institute - Web Content Specialist
4. The Pomerantz Agency - Web/Interactive Manager
5. and last week Space Telescope Science Institute - Admin Assist
   
6. National Public Radio - Executive Administrative Assistant
7. WSFS Bank - Administrative Assistant, Rehoboth
8. Creative Services Traffic Coordinator - The Baltimore Sun
9. Boschel Creative - Junior Web Designer/Developer
10. Advertising.com Inc - Traffic Coordinator
    

entry levels

United rentals has a position in Delmar for a Sales Coordinator. The position requires a Bachlor's degree and I don't quite know why. I applied to this job because I truly want to know more about it. I doubt it has anything to do with graphic design and perhaps nothing to do with office administration but more like customer service. Can you see me selling tractors?

Bank of America has a position as Fraud Analyst: "reviews potential fraudulent accounts for the prevention and detection of Fraud and verifies account activity with customers over the phone. The incumbent will take appropriate action based on transaction characteristics on routine, less complex issues related to Customer accounts. Experience is gained through training and following established procedures and guidelines. The Fraud Analyst has minimal decision making ability which directly affects the customer experience and risk to Bank of America. Typically reports to Fraud Prevention/Detection Supervisor; 0 to 2 years in the field or related experience." Now why is this entry level? Yes, I applied.

Also applied to Cox cable and travel channel as an executive assistant to "Provide high-level executive administrative support for the Chief Creative Officer, Travel Channel Media and business team."

Space Telescope

I can handle complex administrative, secretarial and clerical functions. I have done so in the past with my experience as an executive officer in the position of secretary for the University Chapter of the Association for Computing Machinery. In my position I maintained weekly meeting minutes, managed a 140 member listserv, designed event flyers, and chaired a committee.

I am comfortable with both PC and Mac. Additionally, I am familiar with UNIX based systems and Adobe creative suite software. I am very familiar with Microsoft office as I am Microsoft Certified as a user specialist in Power Point.

I can perform and have experience in a variety of clerical, secretarial, and administrative duties requiring initiative and exercise of independent judgment or discretion in my experiences working at a local answering service. My job as telephone operator required that I listen carefully and be prepared for any situation. I regularly dealt with an array of situations and challenges including everything from basic routines to dire emergencies. I can say with confidence that I always did my job to the best of my ability and acted in accordance with all procedures and rules. I am proud to say I was a member of our team contributing to our status as an ATSI (Association of TeleServices International) 2006 Award of Excellence Recipient.

Birthdays come and go

Six months into my job search and I have landed a job working through the local temp agency. I didn't expect it would come to this. I had hoped to join the white collar ranks, make upwards of $30,000 plus health benefits, in a county and possibly state other than my current residence. I realize that this is a contract position and it doesn't look much better on my resume than a gap does but, seriously, I'm in a contract position: exactly where I didn't want to end up. Beggars can't be choosers and I suppose I could always be in wore straits. I really thought that in half a year I'd be in a different place. My birthday, unofficially marking the six-month adventure, was pleasant on the whole but I truly expected to be in a full-time position. Disappointment drips with dullness.

The Game Show continues

The job search process is like being a contestant on a game show. You hope you're the lucky one to score the big prize but you have to jump through these silly hoops. This is my future, it shouldn't be a gamble or a game. Networking "feels so fake to me, but I know that's the game." is quoted from Hillary Meister in Barbara Ehrenreich's book "Bait and Switch". Barbara examines and the world of white collar unemployment and has plenty of relevant things to say.

Again on networking: "...It feels 'fake' because we know it involves the deflection of our natural human sociability to an ulterior end. Normally we meet strangers in the expectation that they may truly be strange, and are drawn to the multi layered mystery that each human presents. But in networking, as in prostitution, there is no time for fascination. The networker is always, so to speak, looking over the shoulder of the person she engages in conversation, toward whatever concrete advantage can be gleaned from the interaction - a tip or a precious contact...No matter how crowded the room, the networker prowls alone, scavenging to meet his or her individual needs."

Gripe tangent

My biggest issue out of school is health insurance. As soon as I graduated in January I was no longer a "full time student" and so my parents insurance dropped me. I have temporary insurance through the Alumni association but it really doesn't pay for much of anything (including prescriptions). So I can't really afford my allergy medication at $200 a bottle and in March I got sick with strep throat twice. Then I got pink eye twice. "Pitty party for one, you're table is now available."

inconvenience

I got a call yesterday at noon regarding the Manpower job. I went out on my assignment to all ten convenience stops on my list. Everything went smoothly and I'll have to do some math to figure out if driving the hundreds of miles was really worth it. Driving all over the peninsula is a bit exhausting but actually making a transaction only takes a few minutes at most.

I have an interview this afternoon at the county building for an unpublicized cold fusion position. This is the second cold fusion programming position I've been interviewed for in Georgetown. The first one was on June 1st and I expected they'd call back by now for a second interview like they said...it looks like that won't happen as today is the 14th. Oh well. Wish me luck!

D-day B-day

Last Wednesday was my birthday. I had an interview at Manpower staffing firm at 9:30 am before I went to the baseball game and on to the beach for my birthday dinner. I was expecting a call back regarding a second interview for the Georgetown programming position but it never came. I did have a good birthday though and a nice fun yet relaxing weekend. Today I'm home and I called Georgetown back and now I'm crossing my fingers and waiting. In the mean time I will most likely apply to workBaltimore.com

Rolling along

Productivity of the day came in the form of a phone call to Maryland regarding none other than a undercover operation. This should be fun however I get the feeling the main office maybe slightly disorganized if not understaffed and I feel there must be a reason for that. This is not a state job but it will involve travel as far away as Virginia and as far north west as Denton, MD. It will require two forms of ID and pays well by the hour although it shouldn't take you an hour to walk into a location and complete the transaction. It is temp contract work and I suppose that's better than nothing. The orders come out of Colorado, where they have no concept of beach traffic. Go figure.

On another note, Friday's interview in Georgetown may yield a second interview next week. They said it was a programming position which is about the last thing I expected. It left me with mixed feelings but ultimately I'd like to see me hack it as a programmer, pardon the pun.

race week

Kicking off hurricane season, tomorrow's big interview in Georgetown, DE has been pushed up by one hour. The call came in while I was at the ENT allergist. This is my first choice so keep your fingers crossed. If it doesn't work out, plan B entails searching from a newly found resource: WorkBaltimore.com

Roxanne

DSP has received my application but it has not yet been reviewed to see if I meet their minimum qualifications. Testing starts this fall of 2007 for a 2008 Recruit Class. Applications are reviewed in July and notification comes in the mail.

Rejection stings.

The TV station called back one weekday this week. It was in reference to setting up an interview. Unfortunately I wasn't home, and the message got scrambled. I didn't catch the little detail that they were in a rush to hire. So tragically, I delayed one day in returning their telephone call and upon doing so I learned that they had already filled the position in master control.

In more rejection news, yesterday I received a reply to my employment inquiry with my big second choice: D3 Corp of Ocean City, MD. The short 3 line reply: "Thank you for your inquiry. We have recently filled the position, but our company continues to grow. I will keep your resume on file and will contact you when another position becomes available."

Graphic Design

"Graphic designers work with drawn, painted, photographed, or computer-generated images (pictures), but they also design the letterforms that make up various typefaces found in movie credits and TV ads; in books, magazines, and menus; and even on computer screens. Designers create, choose, and organize these elements—typography, images, and the so-called “white space” around them—to communicate a message...Graphic design is a creative process that combines art and technology to communicate ideas..."

"Designers are the link between the client and the audience. On the one hand, a client is often too close to the message to understand various ways in which it can be presented. The audience, on the other hand, is often too broad to have any direct impact on how a communication is presented. What’s more, it is usually difficult to make the audience a part of the creative process. Unlike client and audience, graphic designers learn how to construct a message and how to present it successfully. They work with the client to understand the content and the purpose of the message. They often collaborate with market researchers and other specialists to understand the nature of the audience. Once a design concept is chosen, the designers work with illustrators and photographers as well as with typesetters and printers or other production specialists to create the final design product."
- Graphic Design: A Career Guide and Education Directory
Edited by Sharon Helmer Poggenpohl, Copyright 1993
The American Institute of Graphic Arts

re: Salisbury U

That postings on SU which I replied to must have been stale listings. Those half a douzen couver letters I wrote generated a single line response: "The position was filled several months ago. I'm not sure why it continues to appear on the job alert page. Thank you for your interest."

Graphics and Printing Tech I

"Your application for Graphics & Printing Technician I 041207-MCCE01-100200 has been screened and been determined that you have met the job requirements and you are on the eligibility list for this recruitment. Your application may be further reviewed by an agency hiring manager and you may be contacted for an interview. Your application will remain active until the vacancy is filled or the recruitment is closed. You may check on the status of the vacancy by visiting the Delaware Employment Link (DEL) Career Opportunities website at http://www.jobaps.com/de/ and clicking on Status of Closed Postings."

Oooh boy, well I went to Monday's interview at the state OMB. I had some minor trouble finding the place and I had to wait a half and hour for them to call me back into the conference room. But the actual interview itself was like 7 minutes long. No joke, shortest interview of my life. Not like my previous 2 hour interviews at some other places.

Upon asking questions I learned that the job pays around $11 an hour and it's not a casual seasonal position as the bureacracy lists it but it is actually a permanent part time position at 30 hours a week. The job has no benefits and it mostly pertains to bindery and finishing or folders and cutters. Again no graphic design, and no benifits...? Anyhow they said that they would be contacting me for sure in the next two weeks.

Application Interface Designer

"The main role and responsibility for this position is to design clean and intuitive graphical user interfaces for our interactive, data-driven web applications. The challenge is to create outstanding and innovative user experiences which solve complicated problems without burdening users with complexity.

The successful candidate will have a keen eye for detail, be highly creative, have expert diagramming and screen layout skills, be proficient with graphic and web applications, be action- and team-oriented, and possess strong oral and written communications skills.

We are looking for someone outstanding in interaction and web design as well as information architecture. Please note that this is NOT a graphic designer or application programmer position. This position reports to the VP of Product Development.

Requirements
Responsibilities:

1. PLAN & ANALYZE
   
   
   
   • Analyze users’ goals and needs for our target audiences.
   
   
   • Understand our business needs and requirements.
   
   
   • Translate needs into design specifications that merge business and user goals with technical capabilities.
   
   
   
   
2. DESIGN
   
   
   
   • Develop effective interface components and assemble them into highly usable and coherent web designs.
   
   
   • Create sketches, concept and navigation maps, page and task flows, wireframes, and design specifications for proposed designs.
   
   
   • Create prototypes based on written requirements and/or meetings.
   
   
   • Build user interfaces using HTML, CSS, and DHTML.
   
   
   • Conceptualize and document the design of proposed interactions and interfaces.
   
   
   
   
3. COLLABORATE
   
   
   
   • Work with multiple project managers simultaneously as part of cross-functional project teams.
   
   
   • Help shape vision and requirements for product experience; transform requirements into wireframes and functional specifications.
   
   
   • Work with usability engineers to develop user profiles, analyze user tasks, create scenarios and use cases, test interface designs and translate usability study findings into improved designs.
   
   
   • Work with application/systems programmers to ensure that web interfaces connect in real-time with underlying data sources.
   
   
   • Work with development team to review and refine prototypes, and to ensure correct implementation of interaction functionality (including participating in executing unit test plans).
   
   
   
   
4. PROCESS
   
   
   
   • Utilize and promote user-centered design methodologies.
   
   
   • Follow an iterative process along the complete product life cycle.
   
   
   • Provide multiple viable solutions to complex user interface and information design problems.
   
   
   • Help create and enforce standards and guidelines for user experience.
   
   
   • Research best practices and propose improvements in designs and methods.
   
   
   • Experiment with new interaction types that push the boundaries.
   
   
   
   
5. LEAD
   
   
   
   • Take creative direction to deliver a consistent high-quality user experience.
   
   
   • Manage full lifecycle of design tasks, from concept and design to production.
   
   
   • Articulate ideas and direction in writing and/or storyboards.
   
   
   
   
6. LEARN
   
   
   
   • Review competing products and recommend design solutions that differentiate our products from theirs.
   
   
   • Keep up to date with industry standards and trends as well as advances in interaction design technologies.
     
   
   

Qualifications:

• EDUCATION:




• Bachelors degree required, preferably in Graphic Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Human Factors, Visual Communications or related field.


• EXPERIENCE
  
  
  
  • 3-5 years full-time experience designing interactive user interfaces for web or software applications
  
  
  • Experience with online consumer software product interfaces.
  
  
• KNOWLEDGE
  
  
  
  • Thorough knowledge of web and interactive design processes, best practices and tools.
  
  
  • Working knowledge of HTML, DHTML, and CSS.
  
  
  • Understands information architecture, usability testing, and how to leverage AJAX, JavaScript, Flash, XML, and XHTML.
  
  
• SOFTWARE
  
  
  
  • Highly proficient in desktop UI/graphics applications (such as Illustrator, Photoshop, Visio, InDesign, QuarkXpress).
  
  
  • Microsoft Office.
    

Keywords: user interface, application usability, web designer, interaction design, user-centered application design, application designer, information architect, graphical user interface, human computer interaction, HCI, GUI, UI.

Salisbury U

Evidently SU has a nice part time listing for college students available through their career services website. Isn't it funny that I've found their smaller website more user friendly than that of the larger University of Delaware? The MBNA career services is now the BoA or Bank of America Career Services Center at the University of Delaware. It's too bad they couldn't help there with any information on such a cutting edge field like interactive media. The university is supposed to be one of the top wired schools in the nation but they are truly lacking when it comes to wired jobs and wired majors. Meh.

Anyhow, while on SU Career's site I applied to:
"Akman & Associates, PC: Receptionist/Administrative Assistant- We are looking for a part-time receptionist/administrative assistant. You must have good personal and phone skills. This is a perfect opportunity to learn about the law for those interested in legal careers. The practice is a general practice, with one attorney and one paralegal. Schedule is flexible, to work with class schedules. Status: Part-time Job Locations: Salisbury, MD. Compensation Details/Other Benefits: Negotiable. Email to Receive Applications"

American Insurance

As a result of posting on CareerBuilder.com last night, today's random email comes from the recruiting director for American Income Life Insurance Company. It reads: "...Your resume was posted online and I would like to have a conversation with you regarding an exciting employment opportunity we have available in Sales Management...providing supplemental life insurance products to North America`s associations, labor and credit union members. We are located and licensed in all 50 states, New Zealand and Canada...Currently we have full-time and part-time openings at entry level sales, junior and senior management and marketing. There is no need for cold calling or telemarketing as we provide 100% qualified warm leads. I am looking forward to speaking with you about this opportunity on a first interview...Please call...so I can book a personal interview with you."

Then I received another insurance recruitment email, this time from United American Insurance Company. It reads: "Whether you have insurance sales or management experience or are looking for a new vocation, we need to talk. I am in the process of hiring 100 new agents and 10 sales managers in Pennsylvania and adjoining areas to market our vast portfolio of life and health products. We specialize in both the senior market as well as people under the age of 65, offering individual as well as payroll deduction life and health plans." Hmm.

I continued reading email and find the very next one to be from the CEO of American Income. Nice marketing tactic in that it grabs my attention. It persuasively reads: "I recently found your resume online and wanted to get in touch with you. We are expanding our sales force by interviewing applicants from a variety of different backgrounds and we believe you have the potential to be an excellent match. We are looking for goal-oriented individuals like you right now. First year earnings, advances and bonuses can range from $45,000 to $75,000 for new representatives. No experience is necessary. Full training is provided to help maximize your earning potential. ...P.S. You received this E-mail because you responded to our ad or placed your resume on one of the internet job boards."

The next email reads "Hi, my name is John Gore and I am the Senior Vice President of United Americans Branch Office Division. I found your resume online and wanted to contact you. We are now hiring applicants from a wide variety of backgrounds and we believe you are an outstanding match. We have immediate openings for motivated individuals like you. First year earnings can range as high as $100,000 for new representatives and management positions are awarded for excellence, regardless of prior experience. If you are goal-oriented with good communication skills and have a desire to succeed within a company that has a well-known industry reputation for financial stability, quality products and streamlined services, then I would like to speak with you at your earliest convenience. We are a part of the Torchmark Corporation, a Top Forbes 400 company. We provide full training and a complete set of skills to help you build your earning potential. Bonuses and incentives are also a part of our commitment to your success."

I think you get the idea here. You know what I'm getting at.

Pay attention

9 o'clock this morning the phone rang. I never even heard it because I was in the most comfortable sleep of the past three days, maybe even the best of the week. But I was roused from my late morning slumber when it was indicated that the telephone caller was for me. Evidently the state job I applied for last month has closed the listing and decided they will hold interviews. Last night I made plans to leave town Sunday but those plans are unfortunately postponed since Monday is the only day they will be holding the interviews.

I was speaking clearly on the phone but my mind was still very groggy at that hour. I know what time my interview is scheduled, but I didn't catch the room number, interviewer's name or much of any information beneficial to me. Had I been on my toes, maybe I would have asked a few more questions. I've long since deleted the informative email I received upon applying. But I think I can find the original posting online and get a phone number and address from that page.

The job title is Graphics & Printing Technician I. It is an entry level, casual seasonal position and the pay is $10.94 per hour. Two hours will be spent every day commuting to and from Dover. I should pray that I don't obtain anymore speeding tickets via that route.

Pagination

According to the wiki, "Pagination is the system by which the information on a newspaper, bookpage, manuscript, or otherwise handwritten or printed document are laid out." A very pleasant voice called today from a local beach paper and invited me to an interview later this week! Rah, hurrah, just don't count your chickens before they hatch.

Circular reasoning

After lunch I received 2 calls from the uncle who got me my first job. Then his associate Eddie Spaghetti from the county called to speak with me briefly. He instructed me to go over to the County Building #2 on the silly circle and fill out an application. I followed a Pepsi car most of the way back home.

IED, UID, whatever

Usability Design/Test Analyst
Location: US-MD-Woodlawn
Job Category: Information Technology

Purpose:
TEKsystems is seeking an Human Factors/Usability Design Analyst to provide User-Centered Design support to project teams within a large government agency. This includes the ability to analyze user needs, assist in requirements definition, and design and conduct usability testing.

Job Requirements:
-11 Years of IT experience and 14 without an IT degree
-Bachelors degree or higher in Cognitive Psychology, Human Factors Engineering, Visual Design, Instructional Systems Design, or similar.
-Direct Interaction/Interface design experience including User-Centered Methods and User Analysis
-Experience designing and conducting formative and summative usability tests in both formal and informal settings
-Understanding of Requirements Definition process
-Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams
-Excellent written and verbal skills

Additional desired skills include:

-Direct experience with consulting to Federal agencies.
-Thorough understanding of iterative software development methods
-Experience with contextual inquiry methods.
-Experience with Section 508 compliance

UI designer

What a posting a UI designer...what is the job called? designer, engineer, specialist? what is it called? I want the entry level, but it's so new and so specialized, does everyone call it something different? I want this job.

around

This morning I've continued work on my online portfolio as well as send several emails out for networking and information. Also, I applied to two newspaper jobs as a paginator: De Cost Press and Salisbury Daily Times. I have got to get this resume done so I may apply to some more web design places. I'm unsure now as to how one would work their way up to usability engineer. What exactly is the entry level position leading eventually up to that? Does everyone have to start out as a graphic designer?

Life goes on

After picking up the dry cleaning, I stopped by the Lowe's Hiring Center again today. I filled out another application but for a different position. Unfortunately the large and in charge woman there would not accept my application, nor would she look at me when she spoke or answered my questions. When I left I felt sad and rejected. The portfolio is on hold now as we have a family member hospitalized.

Portfolio

This week I'm really putting a good effort in and working towards getting my online portfolio up and kicking. I'd like to be able to refer to it and use it when searching for jobs. I've got two at the top of my list locally that require a portfolio when applying so I can't wait to get this done. Ok, I can wait as long as it takes to do it right. Everyday I think I meet at least one goal and make some progress. I found alot of HTML4 has become obsolete or outdated (depreciated methods like the "b" tag versus "strong" tag and now font-weight:). The hardest thing to tackle is learning this new world of CSS. I can tweak templates but I really want to be able to type code with a good understanding. I suppose I could use Dreamweaver8 or GoLive and have it write the code for me but I've always been against that so why change now? Maybe I'm doing things the hard way but the goal is to get this portfolio completed so I can apply for jobs. Maybe at my next job we will use Dreamweaver8.

BTW, the riverfront job fair I went to on Tuesday wasn't much for me but I gave it a shot anyhow. It was a good day to get out in the sunshine and go for the drive. I picked up some info, some free pens, but I am really going to town no the portfolio.

Keywords

Designer
Developer
Interface Designer, UI Designer
Web Designer
Project Manager
Information Architect
Usability Expert/Consultant/Lead
Accessibility Expert/Consultant/Lead
Writer/editor
Creative Director, Art Director
Web Director
Web Producer
Webmaster, Web Master

Ans Svc/Cust svc

Lest we forget it, I must re-iterate that I do have customer service experience as a telephone operator at a local answering service during times away from school. My resume lets you know that that particular job entailed answering telephones via computer, taking/typing messages, transferring calls, and dispatching service personnel. But what you don't know is that I was lucky enough to be part of the team that was among the ATSI (Association of TeleServices International) 2006 Award of Excellence Recipients!

Everday at the answering service, my job as telephone operator was all about customer service. I had to listen carefully to customers and be prepared for any situation. It was my responsibility to aid and assist them in their communications and this entailed all types of challenges including dealing with emergencies. An average day included helping dispatch or put people in contact with whomever they need. The accounts we answered for were mostly health care accounts but people calling on the other end of the line had concerns incorporating everything from basic routines to dire emergencies. I can say with confidence that I always did my job to the best of my ability and acted in accordance with all procedures and rules.

Blue Cross Buns

Today I sent a resume into Independence Blue Cross for a paid internship. The email said: "We are looking for a summer intern who would like to work in a Corporate Communications department assisting the technical team with support for print,web and multimedia designers. This is for Independence Blue Cross and the position offers many great opportunities for any student looking practical IT experience in a communications or corporate environment."
Contact and Application.

Then I found a listing on monster for a graphic design and customer representative in Sparks, MD which is nearby to Hunt Valley. The monster.com listing said "To Apply: To respond to this opportunity, please go to: http://www.MyChoiceEngine.com/Role/32265 or fax 1-800-521-9556 Attn: Gwena". Then it redirected to this Administaff thing where I painstakingly filled out the online form THREE TIMES before submitting. Sigh.

Then around 9:30pm I sent my resume off to Baltimore@rht.com because evidently this "Robert Half Technology" is a staffing organization with a Baltimore office...maybe I'll get a call? This said that a technical writer could get like $30 an hour! How fabulous.

Just after 1am I recieved e-mail confirmation notice that my application for Graphics & Printing Technician I was received in the State of Delaware's Office of Human Resource Management. My application was received on 4/26/2007 1:03:41 AM. The filing deadline for this job is 5/2/2007 11:59:00 PM. To review your application or submit an application for another job, return to the Current Employment Opportunities.

Joe's advice

"The 3 big job search websites are careerbuilder.com, monster.com and hotjobs.com. All of them are pretty much the same as far as setting up your resume and looking for jobs. Careerbuilder.com is ranked as the number one career site these days, but with any of these sites it is easy to get lost in the shuffle since there are a lot of people accessing the sites and applying for jobs.

Another good place to look is craigslist. Job postings on this site are usually from smaller firms or companies since it is cheaper then what the big time sites charge. Also, with a smaller company you might have a better chance at finding an entry level job and also hearing back from a potential recruiter.

For example,more people are applying for jobs at Cisco through hotjobs.com on a daily basis then for little Joe Schmo ad agency that wants to hire an entry level person and is using craigslist. Also out here we have bayareajobs.com which just focuses on jobs in the bay area. Not sure if it is good or not, but if they have a similar site for Delaware or the surrounding area it might be worth checking out as well.

Since she is just starting out she should make sure she has a resume and a standard cover letter put together and then throw it out to as many companies that are looking to hire graphic designers. The more she sends out, the better chance she has of hearing back from a potential employer. Also, it's not uncommon for the recruiters to take their sweet time in responding, if they respond at all. She should check out the postings on a daily or every other day basis as well, as job postings are putted up on a regular basis. Let me know if this helps. -Joe" Mon, 9 Apr 2007

What is this?

CLERICAL - Civil/Paternity Assistant:
Ocean City - Great opportunity for summer internship. Large volume restaurant now Interviewing for immediate clerical position thru Oct. Interviews by appointment only. Call 410-289-6821, Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm. NO WALK-INS PLEASE!
Source - Daily Times - Salisbury, MD

Requirements:Seeking individual withexcellent phone and grammar skills. Includes, but is not limited to, answering multi-line phones, filing, typing, computer skills. Must have dependable transportation and be able to work nights and weekends.

applications

My yahoo bulk/junk mail box has recently been flooded and I'm not sure why. The legitimate inbox shows a few reminders from careerbuilder that I applied to:

Date of Submission:2007/03/29
Job Title:Administrative Assistant
Company:Kelly Services
Location:US-MD-Owings Mills


Date of Submission:3/29/2007
Job Title:dispatcher
Company:Kelly Services
Location:US-MD-Laurel


Date of Submission:2007/03/29
Job Title:Customer Service Clerk, Full Time
Company:Pitt Ohio Express
Location:US-MD-Baltimore

Also sent off a resume and cover letter to the Daily Times because they are still continuing to run their ad for a graphic designer. I'm not qualified in the Quark software they have and yes I feel it is outdated but after having several family and friends mention this job I'm sick of hearing about it and qualified or not I've sent in my stuff. Ha! Oh and I sent another cover letter for a craigslist thing. Yadda, yadda, yadda.

Non-paid paying internships

Wednesday I traveled to the capital city of our lovely state and went to a job fair at a private collegiate institution. I filled out two applications. Today I called one of those places back. They called me back and said that although my experience is fitting they have a rule that they either give you a paid internship or on the other hand a non-paid internship but with college credits. Currently they cannot afford to pay someone and they'd like to offer me a non paid internship but I've graduated college so really the credits don't do alot for me. I continue to play the game insearch of my $42,000 a year job. Did you know the State Police pay $40,000? that's close enough for me...a viable possibility. Can you imagine that?

across tips

I recently came across a GoldenKey/SallieMae Job hunting tip sheet:

• network, network, network: be in the right place at the right time
• have copies of resume at the ready: at all times
• research companies: and write a well informed dcover letter
• practive interviewing: with friends or family
• keep careful records: of contacts plus where and when you sent out things
• be prepared to talk about yourself off the cuff: anywhere
• stay optimistic and confident: it will take a while, but it's well worth it

Online resources and job engines:

1. truecareers.com
2. monster.com
3. careerbuilder.com
4. hotjobs.com
5. directemplioyers.com
6. job-hunt.org
7. careerjournal.com
8. salary.com

Driving records

Last Thursday I went to OC and stayed through Sunday. While staying down there I had no Internet connection and hence no progress on jobs. Of course that doesn't mean it wasn't forgotten as I was rudely reminded by my loving family at Sunday dinner that I still don't have a job. Everyone wants to give me their two cents and tell me where to go to get a job. While I'm sure it's only because they care, sometimes it is hard for me to patiently swallow their advice. I know that all in good time I will work things out on my own.

Since I filled out a form today to request my driving record, I'm wondering how many businesses actually do background checks. Do you think anyone is really looking at my driving records? Initially I thought no, but today I've changed my mind. Potentially will be worth receiving a copy myself to see what they could be examining.

I'm smart, I'm nice

Playing the game today for a graphic design internship with Systems Alliance, Inc. in Sparks, Maryland with response from job posting from the Baltimore.CraigsList.com

"Please take note that while working towards my bachlor of arts degree I gained valueable customer service experience with a local answering service. I am interested in and excited at the possibilty of working for your Fortune 1000 company."

Also played the game today by sending a resume and gmail cover letter to a Pasadena, Maryland sign company in response to another Baltimore.CraigsList.com ad. Almost forgot to mention I filled out the web form on unitedelectricjobs.com and submitted my pdf resume. Should this really feel like a gameshow to me? What an analogy.

it's electric

I have finished my antibiotics and I am feeling better. However I'm still plagued frequently in the morning by a sore throat. Today I noticed a flyer on delaware.facebook for unitedelectricjobs.com with United Electric Supply with locations in Jessup, MD and Wilmington, DE. Why do I feel like this job searching is one big game that I don't really feel like playing? I almost hate it when people call me on the phone cause I feel like it's a big waste of time. But time is all I've got, so what time am I really wasting by not taking a chance here? It's Easter and I'm unemployed.

On the mend II

Feeling quite a bit better in general now and I'm almost through the antibiotics. Not making much job progress. Suck.

still with the plague

Monday was a boring day around the house. Tuesday I went to docA and they said I had a new strep throat infection. Thrusday I went to docB and got a blood test which confirms I do not have mono. Feeling crappy, I'm not getting a whole lot done on the job front as evident by the date of my last post. Today I did send resumes online out for two Kelly Services jobs as seen on Career Builder.com

Can you see clearly now?

This morning I attended a lecture on global warming and climatology at the College of Marine Studies. Few students attended, but the retired population was out in force and armed with loaded questions. I do wonder what many of them did for a living in their lifetimes. Does a college education mean as much today as it did in their day?

This afternoon I recieved another call from an online college recruiter. I viewed the website and the demo lectures for design and IT but ultimaetly decided it was not for me. I finally sent and email with general questions and my decision to decline starting school at this time. Maybe I will start work on my portfolio soon. My desk is getting cleaner and cleaner.

Monster says followup

Send a follow up within 3-5 business days by phone, or by email. Try saying something like, "Hi, my name is ______ and I submitted my resume for your ______ opening. I'm extremely interested in this opportunity, and I just wanted to touch base with you on how I can benefit your operation..." Keep your message should be brief.

Here's an example:
Dear Name (or "Hiring Manager" if name is unknown): I recently applied for your ______ opening, and I just wanted to follow up to make sure my resume was received. My strong background in ______, ______ and ______ appears to be an excellent match to the qualifications you are seeking, and I am very interested in your opportunity. I realize you may not yet be at the interview stage, but I am more than happy to answer any preliminary questions you may have, and I can be reached at ______. Thank you for your time and kind consideration. Sincerely, Blah, blah, blah.

Let's Build...a career

This afternoon I traveled up to Seaford to the Lowe's hiring center and filled out an application for customer service. My family was pretty happy to hear about that.

I got a really funny looking email today from Maria Hamwood at WV Travel offering me a position. It said "I was wondering if you would be offended if I wanted to schedule you for an interview with our company...Agents easily earn $33,600 - $78,350 while travel managers can earn between$53,850 to upwards of $193,500" http://www.lifeadventurestravel.com

PHP is a must

Mr. Marc Spiron called back today. The Baltimore PHP position requires years or experience so it seems that I'm not the right fit. Based on all the other questions I was asked, I assume I will be kept on file. I was delighted to recieve a call, and the recruiter also has Florida on his bracket winning it all. Yay, points for me. Also, the upside-down envelope I printed on yesterday for a legal secretary position was in fact mailed this morning. I am adding yahoo hotjobs to my listings.

Oh well

If I don't get any phone calls today is it a miracle or a curse? I send my CV out and never hear back. Am I doomed to just become an administrative assistant? It's monday, maybe I should just work on building my portfolio. I did read in the newspaper that famed Stanford Profesor Phillip Zimbardo has a new book published. I could deal with a trip to the book store.

Lowes knows

After 4 day of recovery I'm back. Today I'm packaging my older model ipod to ship it off for parts. This venture returns more money than the discount Apple gives for turning it in a purchasing a newer model for the same price as it would be to repair mine.

Anyhow, I did call Mark at Human Capital Management back but since he was out of the office I was forced to just leave a pleasant voice mail message. In my backlog of emails I did come across a careerbuilder.com application summary for Visual Display Assistant at Furnitureland, Inc. Obviously they haven't contacted me, it just didn't pan out. Looking on careerbuilder led me to look at two Salisbury area possibilities as administrative assistant. Would a job at home depot or Lowes be better?

Black plague

That's right kids! Cinderella isn't going to make it to the Balt. Ball. I went to the doctor's and now I'm home...dying of the black plague. I have strep throat. That's better than sitting where I was this date last year staring at the pamphlet in my hands that reads in white block letters on an orange background, "So you have mono."

bah dah, bah da da dah

So far this morning there are no earth shattering emails offereing me a Baltimore job. My throat has improved some over the last 5 days but I have made a doctors appointment for this afternoon. I don't think I will be well enough to travel tomorrow. Pray for the best.

Ain't that a kick in the head

Excerpt from email, italics added for emphasis: "I work in HR at Epic Systems Corporation in Madison, WI. I saw your resume andI think you could be a good match for one of our many open positions. We haveentry-level positions in Healthcare Software Sales, Project Management, SoftwareDevelopment, and Technical Services. Some positions are technical, some aren't. Some offer travel, some don't. You'llhave the opportunity to collaborate with the brightest minds in the healthcareindustry and make a difference, while enjoying a casual work environment (jeans,shorts, sandals) and great benefits. Relocation to Madison, WI is required.For more information or to apply online, visit www.epicsystems.com/jobs"

Let get it straight

Phone calls, emails, sending cover letters...it's all getting jumbeled in my head. Let's keep everything straight here shall we? This past week's contacts, including stuff sent tonight:

Place- Contact, Company, Position
Conshohocken, PA- FMP, John BaumArt Director, position: junior level designer
Westwood Online College- Elan Daly
Baltimore-lead recruiter: Marc Spiron, PANMA David Scudder in Wayne, PHP position

Just sent out/No response yet on:
Baltimore- Ynot Advertising: young graphic designer
Philly- Night Kitchen, Production Assistant

Continued illness

Guess what...no surprise here, I'm still sick. I'm becoming tired of being house bound. Worst of all I cannot field phone calls or bear sitting at the computer very long at all. My voice is wretched and my vocal cords feel so raw.

Sick Day/Snow Day

I graduated on Saturday January 6th. I interviewed on Monday January 8th and got a part time job doing some contracting work for a small network management company in Newark. I made web illustrations like headers, top navigational bars, buttons, logos, played with icons and a produced a SVG welcome screen. I've been doing that for the last two months but I think that gig is drawing to an end. It was fun while it lasted.

Unfortunately today was unproductive as I am sick with a sore throat and we have 3 inches of snow on the ground. I never left the house but recieved 2 phone calls and a few nibbles by email. Elon Daily of the Online Westwood College called: 877-817-9525 ext 11 11 3.

Starting from the 2 month mark

Although this process started at the beginning of the new year, and will likely continue for months, the time has come to start documenting my recent job search adventures. I feel the need to document my experience in this blog to preserve for the record, who I did in fact contact and what generated a response.

The target goal is to land a Baltimore or Newark based, full-time, rent-paying, job with health insurance. I hope for a career not as a permanent freelancer or contractor, but for one with steady income within a single office or agency. I don't think I'm asking for too much here. I would like to work in web design, multimedia, computer forensics, or settle for legal administrative assistant. Ideally I will strike gold before my birthday hits or approximately 6 months is up. I'm sure this will reduce my number of daily completed Sudoku puzzles.

I find the job search to be enigmatic with all of the trying to make decisions and guesses. It's like being on a game show...like say Sixty-Four Thousand-Dollar Pyramid! Since I like 42 better than 64, even though it is a power of two, you now understand where the punny name of this blog derives.