Job Doc chat transcript

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Welcome chatters! I am thrilled to join you again. Thanks to Boston.com for allowing us to chat again. Let's get started.

zazad: Help please. I am "downsizing" my life. I no longer have the ambition or desire to be the boss. How can I get people to give me an opportunity to interview for jobs I apply for when it is clear I am overqualified? Is there an elegant way to explain in my cover letter?

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: This is more common than you think Zazad.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: I hear this alot - a strong employee gets promoted and promoted only to find themselves in a role that they actually enjoy less.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: I would clearly articulate this up front to prospective employers.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: In a cover letter, you should try to explain that you are looking at XYZ roles in your career as opposed to ABC roles in your career. That you hope to find that passion again in your new role.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Again, this more more common than you think. I talk to many candidates who express the desire to return to an individual contributor role or a role that offers them better work/life balance.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Good luck. I hope this was helpful advice.

in_limbo: Hi - the company I work for is very close to layoffs (could be within the month). I have irons in the fire and am close to getting hired at another company. BUT I want to wait until I get my severence package (rumors are it will be pretty good). How do I tell my potential new employer that I want to wait for the layoff/severence? And how long is kosher to wait?

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Good question In Limbo.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: It is a gentle balance for sure. You should try to get more details on your severance package if you can.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Rumors can be misleading and often not the best source of information. How good is your relationship with your manager or HR?

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: If you have a strong relationship with either, you could ask them for more info. I wouldn't necessarily mention the other offer up front.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: The other company will likely give you a week or so of waiting time but probably not more than that.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: They may think you are delaying the process because of another offer... or that you really aren't interested.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: In summary, first get good info. Not rumors.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Second, don't do anything to jeopardize your new offer. A few dollars from your current employer is not worth jeopardizing a good offer. I wouldn't delay the process more than a week.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Good luck.

workerbee: i requested to work from home 2 times per mth. my request was rejected even though there is a history of allowing ppl to work from home once per wk. Should I resubmit my request? Gas prices are close to $4 and I commute 1 hour and 40 minutes every day. My immediate supervisor is supportive of the request but the new (shortsighted, I feel) leadership is not.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Hi Workerbee --

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: First, some questions come to mind: does your job/role allow you to work at home easily without impacting your performance? Some do and some don't.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Second, twice per month seems reasonable but again it depends on your role. For a retail sales person (just an example), this doesn't work.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: For a programmer, it usually does work.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Also, I am not sure what your performance has been. If you have received warnings or similar, a manager may be reluctant to approve this option.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Also, the company may be concerned about setting a precedent. WIll others make the same request? Will they have very few people holding down the fort and many requesting work at home options?

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: But I do support flexibility in the workplace. Between the cost of gas, the time spent in the car or the train, etc., there are benefits to flexible work arrangements.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: You should also probably try to find out the reasons why your request was denied. That will give you a better sense of whether to make your request again.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Good luck.

moss: I have been contracting for several years as a tech writer&editor for serveral companies. Why wont companies hire me full time for these jobs ?

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: HI Moss -- Glad you are asking about the world of contracting.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: There are some roles that lend themselves to contracting and you mention a few of them -- writing, editing, etc.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Some people love the world of contracting -- changing clients, variety in the work and people around them, new industries or topics.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Others prefer the security of being employed by a company, whether part-time or full-time.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Companies do like the flexibility of hiring contractors and consultants. It saves them money sometimes.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: They often save on benefits costs which are escalating every year it seems

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Also, companies like the flexibility of being able to pretty easily end a contract. With employees, it is a bit more difficult even though most employees are at-will.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Your industry also lends itself to projects -- with a beginning and an end. It is a bit easier to use contractors for this type of work.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Additionally the print world is struggling. Online media is surging.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: So keeping your skills up to speed is important. Good luck in finding a role.

Mrs__Peel: Hi Pattie. I'm scheduled for a third round of interviews this week. The people I've interviewed with are all great, the company is a leader in its field, and it seems to offer the working environment I'm looking for. But I just don't have a good "gut" feeling that this is where I'm supposed to be. How do I withdraw myself gracefully from my candidacy, and explain this to the external recruiter who's dropped more than a few hints that this is a "juicy opportunity" that I'd be a fool to pass up?

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Hi Mrs. Peel

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Wow.... people are going to envy you when they read this...

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Think about what isn't sitting right with you. Are you concerned about the company's ethics, track record or just the "fit"/culture?

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Of course, the recruiter wants you to take the role. They will only likely collect their fee if you accept the offer. But you really should do what works for you.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: The worst scenario is accepting the offer and then leaving after a very short time period. Everyone would lose.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: I usually err on being too upfront and on the table but ... it works for me. So I would honestly say to the recruiter and to the company that this doesn't feel right.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Don't be surprised if they press for details -- why doesn't it feel right? Maybe it is something that can be changed? I am not sure based on the info that you have given me.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: But you are right to think about it carefully if you have a nagging feeling that this wouldn't be a good fit.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Best of luck.

Walt: I've been searching for a new job in my field for the past year but I'm an over 50 worker and can't relocate or take a hit in the paycheck. The one local employer that has openings in my field doesn't seem to need my skill set. I'm at a loss.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Hi Walt -- good to chat with you.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Your situation is common. I am unsure what industry you came from but also think about other industries.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Your skills may transfer into another industry.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Also, set a goal for networking. Networking is still the number one way to get a job. Former colleagues. Neighbors. Friends. College alumni associations.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: They all could be potential sources of companies hiring. Also check out the job boards frequently like boston.com/monster.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Lastly, there is an association in Boston that works with more mature workers. Have you heard of them? Operation Able. I am sure that they have a website that you could take a peek at.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Also, recruiters may be helpful too. Don't give it. Many companies in Mass are struggling but many are hiring too.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Good luck in your search.

mary_ellen: In my job search, I have a short list of target companies I'd like to work for. What's the best way to contact them? Do I contact HR? Is it acceptable to search for an exec's name & email or phone them?

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Hi Mary Ellen -- Thanks for your question. It is a good one.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Good for you for developing a targeted list of employers. That is a good first step.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Of course, check out their websites thoroughly. Usually you will find a careers or jobs section.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Not all jobs will be posted though. Many may not be posted at all. Some may be posted to internal candidates only.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: The best approach is always to have a good contact on the inside. If you can find a corporate recruiters contact info, that may be helpful.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Or even if you have a friend, colleague or someone else that works at that company. That also can be very helpful. Employers often rely on their employees for referrals of good candidates.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Some executives would welcome a call/email from a candidate. Some would consider it a hassle. It all depends on the person.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: But an inside contact is key. And I would recommend gentle persistence.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: As opposed to calling/email every day. If they say to call once every other week, follow their lead. Good luck.

MBA: I am wondering how an MBA from a lower-tier school (UMass/Boston) is regarded. I appreciate that it's not Harvard. I am interested in getting a job with a Biotech or Pharma in Boston/Cambridge, and I wonder how I'll stack up against those folks. I have an undergraduate degree in Biology, and I bellieve that this is a good combination. Thanks for your advice.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Hello MBA

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Congrats on your MBA and don't undersell it.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Having an MBA is a differentiator (did I spell that correctly??).

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: I like the combo of the undergrad in Biology and an MBA. I bet most pharma/biotech employers would also find that appealing.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: An MBA still separates you from the pack. Yes, some of your competition may have one but many will not. It also depends on where you did your undergrad degree.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: So... can I give you some advice...you should proudly say you have an MBA from UMass/Bosto rather than saying it is a second tier school. Don't undersell yourself.

JobSeeker: Hi Pattie - I'm looking for part time work after having a baby several months ago. I'm lucky enough to have benefits through my husband's employer. What's the best strategy - look for work as a contractor, or as a permanent part-time position? Also - do you have any advice on the state of the market for part time work? I have 10+ years experience as a professional and am worried I will need to start back in an entry level position.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Hello JobSeeker --

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Part-time roles and contract positions are available but moreso in some industries than others.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Mortgage banking and financial services are sort of struggling right now. BUt there are absolutely jobs out there. However...

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: the more you limit your schedule, you may also be limiting your opportunities.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: When women (or anyone) returns to the workforce after stepping out of it for a bit, I also recommend reaching out to former colleagues, contacts, etc. that know of your capabilities.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: So call your former employer. Have coffee with your former manager. Email your former colleagues. People/companies that have worked with you in the past understand your capabilities, track record, experience.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: They are more apt to be flexible. Good luck!

cat: How hard is it to get an accounting job without a degree but with 20+ years exp?

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Good afternoon Cat -

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Thanks for submitting your question.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Job related experience is very important. So with 20 plus years of experience you have an advantage.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: However, you are likely living and working in Mass or New England. And you are living in a state with alot of college grads.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: So other folks with 20 plus years probably have college degrees.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: While the degree may not be required, it will likely be preferred. Have you ever thought about joining a company that offers tuition aid and getting that degree?

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: My experience is that most employers would prefer the degree. There are jobs out there that don't require the degree.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Good luck!

yet_again: My co. is going through a scary reorg. My VP was let go but the Pres. doesn't know yet how the tiny co. will be reorganized. Morale is down and my boss has told me to look for a new job, but that is hard with childcare issues and gas prices. I am the least senior person in my department. I have only been at my job 10 mths. Do I wait this out or search for something else? It doesn't seem that the president has a plan.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Hello Yet Again --

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: It sounds like an anxious time for all.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: I would absolutely get your resume together and at least start putting out your feelers to colleagues, family members, etc.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: When your boss tells you to look for a new position, there is a real message in that!

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Plus, I would rather have some control over my destiny and career. It is better to prepare yourself for the worst and then be happily surprised if you are not let go.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: At a minimum, get the resume together. Then start connecting with friends, colleagues that could be helpful.

PR_hack: I am concerned because my job has a lot of downtime. I was not given goals at the start of my job so I don't know how to spend my time in order to keep busy. I used to log long days in past jobs because I was overworked, but now I'm watching the clock and the days are extremely long.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Hello PR Hack - you are my last question!

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Your situation makes me anxious and I think you are concerned too.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: I would look for additional responsibilities. It sounds like you are in PR. Can you take on more tasks or additional work? I have never been in a role where I watched the clock. How nerve wracking!

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: I would try to find things that of high value but aren't getting done. This will help you remain employed. And it shows initiative. Even you think it is outside of your role, raise your hand.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Good luck. You are in a rare situation.

Pattie Hunt Sinacole: Thank you Chatters and Boston.com. It was fun. Chat with you all again!