I'm very excited to actually report some news.
After over a year On Sabbatical, with close to nil "job" bites, last week I received two job offers in the same day. What are the chances. I was forced to choose between the two. Not super easy, but the decision was carefully deliberated, pros and cons written on lined paper, and I've spoken to many people. Pretty much all people who's opinion I value.
As we know, I've been substitute teaching and working at a Wine Shop. I of course need more money, so I applied for a part time job I saw in the paper last week. Working for a local commercial real estate firm. I walked in we hit it off, he told me he wanted it to develop into a full time position with benefits. Benefits...what are those? It's been a while.
Almost immediately after accepting the position and leaving, I received a phone call from a strange area code. As with most unknown numbers, I didn't pickup. Then an email in the inbox rattles my blackberry. Good ol' Crispin, Porter & Bogusky, informing me I had indeed been accepted into their very competitive summer intern program. They are known as "Agency of the Decade" in ad circles and are behind such campaigns as the Whopper Freakout and the anti smoking Truth campaign. And of course those catchy GAP and Old Navy commercials.
Boulder wanted an answer by the next day...however I got them to extend the deadline through the weekend. Long talks were had, but I have decided to go for it. This could be the break I've been looking for. And a break from ManchVegas will only be healthy for me...
The internship runs May 25 through August 15. I will be driving out there. Never driven cross country before, so thats kind of exciting.
The goal is to get hired full time. Hence, I will be trying hard to bring forth the proverbial "A" game. Let's see if my "A" game jives with anyone else's...
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
An Oaky, Buttery Day
Greetings Earthlings! Utley is still "on sabbatical", still contemplating my life, the future and just what it may hold. I've continuously been sub teaching here and there; finished up teaching middle school PE few weeks ago, but have worked my way into the Memorial High School English Dept. I am much more receptive to the subbing thing when I can plan my days in advance, rather than making the decision when a random phone call comes at 5:30 in the morning. Hence, the English Dept Chair at Memorial will shoot me a text whenever he needs me. Works out well in this golden age of "non-human" interaction. And please don't fret, I do have a couple days booked again to make my triumphant return to the world of middle school Phys Ed.
Quick story as to the methods of my madness: the other day I was "teaching" a Level 2 Mythology class to a group of HS juniors and seniors. I'd taught the same group the week before, so they knew I was "cool." Ha. I knew this group was rather talkative, so as I wrote the day's lessons on the chalkboard, I wrote the word SILENTLY in all caps, as in SILENTLY read chapters 4 and 5 and answer response questions at the end chapter. 15 mins or so pass and one of the students walked up to the board and erased the world SILENTLY. Hmnnm, you want to mess with me do you grasshoppper?! OK that works. "Have you ever seen The Simpsons?" I asked the student. Of course he said no, no student would ever give a straight answer. Indifferent to his answer I replied, "Doesn't matter. Since you seem to have an affinity toward to chalkboard, I'm going to write a phrase on the board, and I want you to copy it all over the board, until there is no room left." Figure I'd at least keep the student busy. So I approached the board and wrote, "I will not erase the teacher's meticulous instruction." And for the rest of the class, Spicoli over there copied the phrase all over the board, in nice neat lines. Bart Simpson style. At least I got some amusement out of the deal!
And now, for my latest gig: I am now working at a little shop in town called The Wine Studio. It's a 2 location little boutique wine and gift shop. Wine tastings every Thursday and Friday evening. I told the owner I'd be willing to work as much as possible. I am interested and do appreciate all things wine, and this will give me an opportunity to learn about the industry. And I believe this new gig will hopefully open some future doors...first, it will give me access to all the wine sales reps that frequent the store; who knows, maybe someday I will enter that side of the business. And 2nd, and I may be grasping at straws here, but the owner is "retirement"age and can't go on forever, so who knows, maybe someday I take over The Wine Studio, and satisfy that entrepenuerial inkling I have. So we shall see.
And now for a "tasting" of my day yesterday. I show up at the shop at 10am, and immediately as I enter, Mo, the owner says, "I hope you had breakfast today." Yes...."Because we have 2 groups of people coming in who would like us to taste their wine," she mentions. Well, twist my arm Mo! The first group entered shortly thereafter. It was a wine rep, who was accompanied Anthony Truchard. Who the F is that, you may be wondering? Anthony Truchard, of Truchard Wines...his family owns a 360+ acre vineyard in Carneros, CA. The bottles say Truchard on them. So this guy was serious. Big time, if you will. We walk to the "tasting table" and begin to get to work. Anthony pulls out 5 bottles, Mo pulls out 4 glasses. The rep pulls out her tasting notes. I stand there, smile and attempt to look sophisticated. As I said, Anthony had 5 wines from his vineyard for us to try. A Roussone, a Chardonnay, a Pinot Noir, a Syrah, and a Cabernet Sauvignon. We start in that order....as Anthony poured, I basically follow everyone's lead. Now, I have had nice wine and think I have a grasp on proper wine etiquette, but I'm no expert, that's for damn sure. After he finished the pour, we swirl the wine around the glass and then take a nice, deep whiff. Followed by a taste. I then nod, pretend as if I'm trying to distinguish the flavors, the oak, the berry, the chocolate, the tobacco, whatever it may be. I do look at the tasting notes and see if I can taste whatever it is that is supposed to be tasted. We go down the line, white to red, lightest to heaviest. Or biggest. It was very interesting to hear Anthony talk about his wines and the processes that go into making the wine and picking the right blend of grape to go into each batch. During wine tastings, a "spitter" is always available, for those who don't necessarily want to drink the wine, just taste. Well, I'm not that advanced yet, so I will drink my wine, thank you very much! He then signed all the bottles for Friday's tasting at the store then left. I then asked Mo if I embarassed her by the question I asked, which was if he thought the movie Sideways popularized the drinking of Pinot Noir. He said it did. I prefaced the question by saying, "Now, this may seem novice of me to ask, but..." Mo said I did not embarass her. Snap!
About an hour later, another wine rep and his "boss" or something came in, this time for us to tasted Prosecco. A sparkling wine, kind of in the Champagne family, just not as sweet. If that is correct. After tasted 3 different levels of Prosecco, we moved onto a couple Italian Reds, which I'd never heard of. But just hearing educated people speak of wine is an interesting experience. Words like approachable, tannens, oaky, buttery to name a few.
So I am enjoying The Wine Studio so far. And this is actually the first time I've ever worked retail, so at least I know how to work a cash register! And, as I said, who knows what doors may open in the future.
And, be assured that I will be reading the book Grapes and Wines next week as I sit by the pool. In St. Croix.
Quick story as to the methods of my madness: the other day I was "teaching" a Level 2 Mythology class to a group of HS juniors and seniors. I'd taught the same group the week before, so they knew I was "cool." Ha. I knew this group was rather talkative, so as I wrote the day's lessons on the chalkboard, I wrote the word SILENTLY in all caps, as in SILENTLY read chapters 4 and 5 and answer response questions at the end chapter. 15 mins or so pass and one of the students walked up to the board and erased the world SILENTLY. Hmnnm, you want to mess with me do you grasshoppper?! OK that works. "Have you ever seen The Simpsons?" I asked the student. Of course he said no, no student would ever give a straight answer. Indifferent to his answer I replied, "Doesn't matter. Since you seem to have an affinity toward to chalkboard, I'm going to write a phrase on the board, and I want you to copy it all over the board, until there is no room left." Figure I'd at least keep the student busy. So I approached the board and wrote, "I will not erase the teacher's meticulous instruction." And for the rest of the class, Spicoli over there copied the phrase all over the board, in nice neat lines. Bart Simpson style. At least I got some amusement out of the deal!
And now, for my latest gig: I am now working at a little shop in town called The Wine Studio. It's a 2 location little boutique wine and gift shop. Wine tastings every Thursday and Friday evening. I told the owner I'd be willing to work as much as possible. I am interested and do appreciate all things wine, and this will give me an opportunity to learn about the industry. And I believe this new gig will hopefully open some future doors...first, it will give me access to all the wine sales reps that frequent the store; who knows, maybe someday I will enter that side of the business. And 2nd, and I may be grasping at straws here, but the owner is "retirement"age and can't go on forever, so who knows, maybe someday I take over The Wine Studio, and satisfy that entrepenuerial inkling I have. So we shall see.
And now for a "tasting" of my day yesterday. I show up at the shop at 10am, and immediately as I enter, Mo, the owner says, "I hope you had breakfast today." Yes...."Because we have 2 groups of people coming in who would like us to taste their wine," she mentions. Well, twist my arm Mo! The first group entered shortly thereafter. It was a wine rep, who was accompanied Anthony Truchard. Who the F is that, you may be wondering? Anthony Truchard, of Truchard Wines...his family owns a 360+ acre vineyard in Carneros, CA. The bottles say Truchard on them. So this guy was serious. Big time, if you will. We walk to the "tasting table" and begin to get to work. Anthony pulls out 5 bottles, Mo pulls out 4 glasses. The rep pulls out her tasting notes. I stand there, smile and attempt to look sophisticated. As I said, Anthony had 5 wines from his vineyard for us to try. A Roussone, a Chardonnay, a Pinot Noir, a Syrah, and a Cabernet Sauvignon. We start in that order....as Anthony poured, I basically follow everyone's lead. Now, I have had nice wine and think I have a grasp on proper wine etiquette, but I'm no expert, that's for damn sure. After he finished the pour, we swirl the wine around the glass and then take a nice, deep whiff. Followed by a taste. I then nod, pretend as if I'm trying to distinguish the flavors, the oak, the berry, the chocolate, the tobacco, whatever it may be. I do look at the tasting notes and see if I can taste whatever it is that is supposed to be tasted. We go down the line, white to red, lightest to heaviest. Or biggest. It was very interesting to hear Anthony talk about his wines and the processes that go into making the wine and picking the right blend of grape to go into each batch. During wine tastings, a "spitter" is always available, for those who don't necessarily want to drink the wine, just taste. Well, I'm not that advanced yet, so I will drink my wine, thank you very much! He then signed all the bottles for Friday's tasting at the store then left. I then asked Mo if I embarassed her by the question I asked, which was if he thought the movie Sideways popularized the drinking of Pinot Noir. He said it did. I prefaced the question by saying, "Now, this may seem novice of me to ask, but..." Mo said I did not embarass her. Snap!
About an hour later, another wine rep and his "boss" or something came in, this time for us to tasted Prosecco. A sparkling wine, kind of in the Champagne family, just not as sweet. If that is correct. After tasted 3 different levels of Prosecco, we moved onto a couple Italian Reds, which I'd never heard of. But just hearing educated people speak of wine is an interesting experience. Words like approachable, tannens, oaky, buttery to name a few.
So I am enjoying The Wine Studio so far. And this is actually the first time I've ever worked retail, so at least I know how to work a cash register! And, as I said, who knows what doors may open in the future.
And, be assured that I will be reading the book Grapes and Wines next week as I sit by the pool. In St. Croix.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Coach
Tomorrow concludes my residency as PE Teacher at Parkside Middle School. It's been three weeks of steady work, getting up each day at 6:15am, and dare I say it, almost getting into a routine again. My jumper has been pretty wet lately, I've been keeping a consistent sweat throughout most days, but most importantly I actually enjoy working with the kids. And, yes, some of them have began calling me "Coach." Ha.
You'd be amazed at how many of these middle schoolers don't give a flying f*ck about anything. Literally, almost a handful of kids each class will receive an "F" this quarter. In Gym class! Their grade is made up of three parts: attitude, participation and bringing a change of clothes. Not bringing clothes is probably the biggest downfall of the students, but usually all three go hand in hand. No clothes and a piss poor attitude will usually lead to lack of participation. Back in my day, I'd never dream of telling a teacher to "f off", but these days its almost commonplace. F'n wild.
Its now been three weeks and I can say that I've been putting in a consistent effort to get the "troubled" kids to bring their clothes and participate. I began this stint right at the beginning of the quarter, and over the first couple days I took note of the students who didn't give a sh*t and just sat on the bleachers while the rest of the class particpated. I began to approach each student individually and attempt to talk to them...to find out what their deal was. I explained that PE Class very well might be the easiest "A" of their lives...and if their other grades suffered, an "A" in PE would certainly help boost their GPA. And I also explained that middle school is a little too early to "cash out" on school, or on life in general. That, even if things at home or wherever sucked, to use Gym class as an escape. Come in, run around for a half hour...and I guarantee you'll feel better.
And I'm happy to say that most of the students responded to me. You see, many of the students in question come from "broken" homes...to put it politely. Latchkey kids would be a polite way of describing them. Parents younger than I am, exposing their children to drugs, booze, abuse on a daily basis. Stuff I couldn't even imagine happening to me in middle school. I would try to keep this in mind as I spoke to these kids, and call me naive, but I think some of them appreciated my efforts, and also appreciated hearing/seeing a young, positive male influence. And they made a difference to me. Each night I found myself thinking about certain students, hoping they'd bring clothes and put in an effort the next day in class. And it's not even about bringing a change of clothes, it's about showing a little responsibility. Taking a little initiative. Knowing that I specifically told them to do something, and feeling the satisfaction of them doing it. And I have gotten feedback that the kids like me, "wishing I was their teacher on a permanent basis..." which definitely makes me feel good.
Anyway, as I have said, I really enjoyed my time as PE Teacher. I found it a unique way to connect/get through to the kids...after all, I always found PE the easiest, most fun class. But I am/was always an athlete so I relished the chance to run around during the school day. Now, being on the other end of it, I appreciate so much more what my old teachers went through. And part of me wishes I could continue my run as PE Teacher....
But, hey, who knows what opportunities the future may hold...
You'd be amazed at how many of these middle schoolers don't give a flying f*ck about anything. Literally, almost a handful of kids each class will receive an "F" this quarter. In Gym class! Their grade is made up of three parts: attitude, participation and bringing a change of clothes. Not bringing clothes is probably the biggest downfall of the students, but usually all three go hand in hand. No clothes and a piss poor attitude will usually lead to lack of participation. Back in my day, I'd never dream of telling a teacher to "f off", but these days its almost commonplace. F'n wild.
Its now been three weeks and I can say that I've been putting in a consistent effort to get the "troubled" kids to bring their clothes and participate. I began this stint right at the beginning of the quarter, and over the first couple days I took note of the students who didn't give a sh*t and just sat on the bleachers while the rest of the class particpated. I began to approach each student individually and attempt to talk to them...to find out what their deal was. I explained that PE Class very well might be the easiest "A" of their lives...and if their other grades suffered, an "A" in PE would certainly help boost their GPA. And I also explained that middle school is a little too early to "cash out" on school, or on life in general. That, even if things at home or wherever sucked, to use Gym class as an escape. Come in, run around for a half hour...and I guarantee you'll feel better.
And I'm happy to say that most of the students responded to me. You see, many of the students in question come from "broken" homes...to put it politely. Latchkey kids would be a polite way of describing them. Parents younger than I am, exposing their children to drugs, booze, abuse on a daily basis. Stuff I couldn't even imagine happening to me in middle school. I would try to keep this in mind as I spoke to these kids, and call me naive, but I think some of them appreciated my efforts, and also appreciated hearing/seeing a young, positive male influence. And they made a difference to me. Each night I found myself thinking about certain students, hoping they'd bring clothes and put in an effort the next day in class. And it's not even about bringing a change of clothes, it's about showing a little responsibility. Taking a little initiative. Knowing that I specifically told them to do something, and feeling the satisfaction of them doing it. And I have gotten feedback that the kids like me, "wishing I was their teacher on a permanent basis..." which definitely makes me feel good.
Anyway, as I have said, I really enjoyed my time as PE Teacher. I found it a unique way to connect/get through to the kids...after all, I always found PE the easiest, most fun class. But I am/was always an athlete so I relished the chance to run around during the school day. Now, being on the other end of it, I appreciate so much more what my old teachers went through. And part of me wishes I could continue my run as PE Teacher....
But, hey, who knows what opportunities the future may hold...
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Big, Busy, BuYaKasha! Week
This could be a big week for Utley...
I'm now spending my days as a middle school Phys Ed teacher. I'm filling in for a "paternity" leave and they have me booked for 2, possibly 3 weeks. I must say it is definitely the best subbing gig I've gotten so far: go to school in sweats, shoot hoops all day, make sure the kiddies bring clothes to change into, take attendance, get a little workout in. And I have a solid 2 hours off mid day, then return for just 1 class at day's end. I know about 5 or so friends who work at the school, which is basically how I got the job. And I teach the gym class with a friend of mine's fiance, and another guy who's very chill, which adds to the fun...I must say I'm really enjoying the experience. I believe this will/could put me in a good mental place for the next couple weeks, possibly transitioning into the next phase of On Sabbatical. As I have repeated over and over, I'm hoping I can build some momentum here.
On top of working all 5 days this week, (which I haven't done in almost a year) I am also working 4 nights this week at the ski area. Double duty b*tches! Really getting in touch with my blue collar roots here, (or lack there of).
But, most importantly, we have a couple employment prospects lined up for the rest of the week...consisting of a phone interview tomorrow and a face to face interview the day after. Phone interview tomorrow is for a summer internship at one of the top advertising agencies in the world. Really, I'm not kidding, they were recently named "Agency of the Decade" by Ad Age Magazine. And the internship this summer would be in Boulder. Colorado. Heard great things about the town of Boulder and have a friend living out there who is willing to put me up for the summer. While I am excited about this possibility, I'm hoping there will be some full time opportunities arising...sooner rather than later.
The face to face interview is with a company in the dental aesthetics industry. Sounds like a decent position, with many of the characteristics I'm looking for in a sales job. I am feeling positive about this meeting, as they have already called me back and emailed me when they said they would. And said they're looking to move quickly...whether they move quickly with me is of course the million dollar question...
Was also presented with an opportunity to sell Marlboro's in southern Vermont. Let me think for a minute...making my living off selling cancer sticks...ummmm, yeaaaaahhhhhh...
So stay tuned, maybe some news coming in the near future. But sure as sh*t don't want to jinx anything here.
In the meantime, you can find me teaching PE, pretending as if I have just landed the best job in the world. And who knows, for the next 2/3 weeks, maybe I've done just that...
I'm now spending my days as a middle school Phys Ed teacher. I'm filling in for a "paternity" leave and they have me booked for 2, possibly 3 weeks. I must say it is definitely the best subbing gig I've gotten so far: go to school in sweats, shoot hoops all day, make sure the kiddies bring clothes to change into, take attendance, get a little workout in. And I have a solid 2 hours off mid day, then return for just 1 class at day's end. I know about 5 or so friends who work at the school, which is basically how I got the job. And I teach the gym class with a friend of mine's fiance, and another guy who's very chill, which adds to the fun...I must say I'm really enjoying the experience. I believe this will/could put me in a good mental place for the next couple weeks, possibly transitioning into the next phase of On Sabbatical. As I have repeated over and over, I'm hoping I can build some momentum here.
On top of working all 5 days this week, (which I haven't done in almost a year) I am also working 4 nights this week at the ski area. Double duty b*tches! Really getting in touch with my blue collar roots here, (or lack there of).
But, most importantly, we have a couple employment prospects lined up for the rest of the week...consisting of a phone interview tomorrow and a face to face interview the day after. Phone interview tomorrow is for a summer internship at one of the top advertising agencies in the world. Really, I'm not kidding, they were recently named "Agency of the Decade" by Ad Age Magazine. And the internship this summer would be in Boulder. Colorado. Heard great things about the town of Boulder and have a friend living out there who is willing to put me up for the summer. While I am excited about this possibility, I'm hoping there will be some full time opportunities arising...sooner rather than later.
The face to face interview is with a company in the dental aesthetics industry. Sounds like a decent position, with many of the characteristics I'm looking for in a sales job. I am feeling positive about this meeting, as they have already called me back and emailed me when they said they would. And said they're looking to move quickly...whether they move quickly with me is of course the million dollar question...
Was also presented with an opportunity to sell Marlboro's in southern Vermont. Let me think for a minute...making my living off selling cancer sticks...ummmm, yeaaaaahhhhhh...
So stay tuned, maybe some news coming in the near future. But sure as sh*t don't want to jinx anything here.
In the meantime, you can find me teaching PE, pretending as if I have just landed the best job in the world. And who knows, for the next 2/3 weeks, maybe I've done just that...
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Thank You For Flying...
As mentioned previously I've been moonlighting 3 nights a week as a lift attendant at a nice little ski area in my town; a small hill, perfect for learning and participating in the fine winter sports of skiing, snowboarding and tubing.
While most "lifties" prefer to isolate themselves in the warm lift shack, I enjoy getting outside in the cold, moving around and speaking with the "customers". As one of the faces of the area, I feel it is important to show these skiers/riders/tubers a good time, make them feel welcome, and make sure they come back for more. While this is of zero financial benefit to me, I think it is my positive upbringing, as well as years of sales and customer service experience that has been cemented into my mentality. Into my steeze, if you will.
Some nights I work the conveyor, or the Magic Carpet Ride as I like to call it. The lift is often packed with small children, and for many of whom it's their first time on the snow. Which can be intimidating. Some are scared. Many are cold. Many wish they were inside playing video games. I make sure to stand outside with a smile, greet them at the "summit" with a high five or fist bump, and thank them for flying, "McIntyre Air, please fly with us again soon." I will also, on occasion, tell them they're getting better and better on the slopes with each run they take, regardless if they are horrible. And why do I do this? Yes, the sales mentality, blah, blah, however on three separate occasions I've had little tykes approach me as they're leaving and say, in a soft, childlike, humble tone, "Thank you very much. You made my night fun." Needless to say, this humbles me.
Last night I had the pleasure of working a private party on the Tubing Park. This particular party included employees of PSNH (NH's monopolistic electric company) and several key clients and families. The wind was whipping and the air was raw. Translation: it was f'n freezing.
As our guests reached the summit, I made sure to have a little fun with them, setting up races on our four lane track, even letting them "bend" the rules from time to time, allowing them to link together and ride down 3, 4, 5, 6 and even 7 at a time. I began races with the mentality of a NASCAR starter, telling them to "start after a 3-count, at the drop of my arm." Kind of like in the Grease, racing for pinks. At one point, I checked in with one particular lady who seemed a bit weary of the fast moving track. I paid attention to her next few runs to make sure she did not die, or at least collide with any of the other Bode Miller/Dale Jr/Cool Runnings wannabees on the track. After she returned from a trip to the lodge to warm up, I explained that we missed her out here in the cold, and that one more run would qualify her as a tubing pro. And that lane #4 had bit of "magic" on it... Just gentle BS'ing, but of course, with a smile on my face.
The party began to shuffle out as their alotted time ended, but before this woman left she approached me and thanked me for rembering her name and showing her party an overall good time. In her exact words, "Wow. You're really good, I can't believe you're rembering each one of us!" Again, I was humbled. "Just trying to make your experience here at the McIntyre Tubing Center as epic as possible."
So as I continue to recieve comments regarding my exceptional customer service, I wonder if somehow, somewhere, someone out there is listening. Someone who is looking to add the Utley experience and repetoire to their firm. Or at least refer me to someone else or something.
And while I'm merely acting in a manner which I consider normal, I can't help but wonder if this good karma will someday, somehow lead to something special...
Followed up today on the email I sent below to the Ad Agency. B*tch receptionist acted as if I was Al Qaida.
While most "lifties" prefer to isolate themselves in the warm lift shack, I enjoy getting outside in the cold, moving around and speaking with the "customers". As one of the faces of the area, I feel it is important to show these skiers/riders/tubers a good time, make them feel welcome, and make sure they come back for more. While this is of zero financial benefit to me, I think it is my positive upbringing, as well as years of sales and customer service experience that has been cemented into my mentality. Into my steeze, if you will.
Some nights I work the conveyor, or the Magic Carpet Ride as I like to call it. The lift is often packed with small children, and for many of whom it's their first time on the snow. Which can be intimidating. Some are scared. Many are cold. Many wish they were inside playing video games. I make sure to stand outside with a smile, greet them at the "summit" with a high five or fist bump, and thank them for flying, "McIntyre Air, please fly with us again soon." I will also, on occasion, tell them they're getting better and better on the slopes with each run they take, regardless if they are horrible. And why do I do this? Yes, the sales mentality, blah, blah, however on three separate occasions I've had little tykes approach me as they're leaving and say, in a soft, childlike, humble tone, "Thank you very much. You made my night fun." Needless to say, this humbles me.
Last night I had the pleasure of working a private party on the Tubing Park. This particular party included employees of PSNH (NH's monopolistic electric company) and several key clients and families. The wind was whipping and the air was raw. Translation: it was f'n freezing.
As our guests reached the summit, I made sure to have a little fun with them, setting up races on our four lane track, even letting them "bend" the rules from time to time, allowing them to link together and ride down 3, 4, 5, 6 and even 7 at a time. I began races with the mentality of a NASCAR starter, telling them to "start after a 3-count, at the drop of my arm." Kind of like in the Grease, racing for pinks. At one point, I checked in with one particular lady who seemed a bit weary of the fast moving track. I paid attention to her next few runs to make sure she did not die, or at least collide with any of the other Bode Miller/Dale Jr/Cool Runnings wannabees on the track. After she returned from a trip to the lodge to warm up, I explained that we missed her out here in the cold, and that one more run would qualify her as a tubing pro. And that lane #4 had bit of "magic" on it... Just gentle BS'ing, but of course, with a smile on my face.
The party began to shuffle out as their alotted time ended, but before this woman left she approached me and thanked me for rembering her name and showing her party an overall good time. In her exact words, "Wow. You're really good, I can't believe you're rembering each one of us!" Again, I was humbled. "Just trying to make your experience here at the McIntyre Tubing Center as epic as possible."
So as I continue to recieve comments regarding my exceptional customer service, I wonder if somehow, somewhere, someone out there is listening. Someone who is looking to add the Utley experience and repetoire to their firm. Or at least refer me to someone else or something.
And while I'm merely acting in a manner which I consider normal, I can't help but wonder if this good karma will someday, somehow lead to something special...
Followed up today on the email I sent below to the Ad Agency. B*tch receptionist acted as if I was Al Qaida.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Live Free or Die
Late last night, I suddenly found myself in one those prickly, "F everyone" type of moods. I imagine other people must get feelings like these. But maybe not. How did I channel these thoughts, you must be wondering? How about sending out a balls to the walls email to a potential employer!
The company in question is a local Ad Agency. If anyone can think outside the box and appreciate a well crafted email, (at least I thought it was a well crafted email) its gotta be an Ad Agency, right? Not to mention an Ad Agency, who, on their website, proclaim to love the great state of NH. Swell, me too. And it went a little something like this:
To the Minds in Charge of Hiring at The Angela Bauer Ad Agency:
Please contact me if you're looking for a young, creative, big thinking addition to your team with versatile experience in business development and a strong background in marketing. A unique mix of the proverbial hunter and gatherer, with an added dose of conscience. Someone with a natural knack for captivating an audience, but capable of wearing many hats to get things done behind the scenes. An eloquent speaker and writer. Self-confident yet coachable. And also a deep-rooted New Hampshire boy who migrated back home from the city, for no better reason than to enjoy the simplicity of our mountains in the winter, our rivers, lakes and beaches in the summer, and most importantly that Live Free or Die attitude that lies deep in the hearts of any true Granite Stater.
I am an Individual. And if the Bauer Agency is in the market for Individuals, as I think it may be, feel free to reach out. You will not regret it.
Sincerely,
Mr. Utley
The goal of that email was to appeal to the mind of someone with a f'n personality. Someone who appreciates a little humor. A little passion. A little g*damn, mf'n chutzpah.
And in the words of that chick from the movie Dazed & Confused: Lick Me! All of You!
The company in question is a local Ad Agency. If anyone can think outside the box and appreciate a well crafted email, (at least I thought it was a well crafted email) its gotta be an Ad Agency, right? Not to mention an Ad Agency, who, on their website, proclaim to love the great state of NH. Swell, me too. And it went a little something like this:
To the Minds in Charge of Hiring at The Angela Bauer Ad Agency:
Please contact me if you're looking for a young, creative, big thinking addition to your team with versatile experience in business development and a strong background in marketing. A unique mix of the proverbial hunter and gatherer, with an added dose of conscience. Someone with a natural knack for captivating an audience, but capable of wearing many hats to get things done behind the scenes. An eloquent speaker and writer. Self-confident yet coachable. And also a deep-rooted New Hampshire boy who migrated back home from the city, for no better reason than to enjoy the simplicity of our mountains in the winter, our rivers, lakes and beaches in the summer, and most importantly that Live Free or Die attitude that lies deep in the hearts of any true Granite Stater.
I am an Individual. And if the Bauer Agency is in the market for Individuals, as I think it may be, feel free to reach out. You will not regret it.
Sincerely,
Mr. Utley
The goal of that email was to appeal to the mind of someone with a f'n personality. Someone who appreciates a little humor. A little passion. A little g*damn, mf'n chutzpah.
And in the words of that chick from the movie Dazed & Confused: Lick Me! All of You!
2010: The Year of Still Here.
And a Happy New Year to all! (All those of you who still visit this blog, that is...) Utley is, despite widespread rumors, still alive and still unemployed. Or maybe the term these days is underemployed. For some reason, I think there may be greener pastures out there for me other than standing 5 hours a night outside a ski lift shack. But, hey $8 an hour is better than $0 per hour.
It's been a while. I hate to say it, but it's coming up on almost a year of being "On Sabbatical." My parents are so thrilled...
Not sure if I mentioned it last time I blogged, but had a great interview 2 weeks ago. Was/am excited about the company, industry and people who work there. Built super rapport. Looked sharp. Usually love to flash my Mont Blanc Pen around during an interview, of course to take notes, but also to show that not only am I a man of taste, but a man who has achieved the type of success it takes to purchase a $200 pen. But that was years ago. I recently went into a jewelry store to get my Tag fixed, and the effeminate gent behind the counter told me that my particular Mont Blanc now goes for up to $500. But I digress...and point being that this fine piece of art/pen ran out of f'n ink as I was taking notes. Still was able to write invisible scratches on the paper, but hopefully that didn't send a bad message.
That was exactly 2 weeks ago. I called yesterday. "Still status quo," the nice HR Lady said. You know, with the holidays and all that, haven't had a chance to "sit down and talk." Which I buy. However, when I have not been able to get past the first interview, I do begin to worry...
And Christ, I turn 30 in September. Let's all hope that some big mf'n sh*t is gonna go down real soon. Real soon, my people.
It's been a while. I hate to say it, but it's coming up on almost a year of being "On Sabbatical." My parents are so thrilled...
Not sure if I mentioned it last time I blogged, but had a great interview 2 weeks ago. Was/am excited about the company, industry and people who work there. Built super rapport. Looked sharp. Usually love to flash my Mont Blanc Pen around during an interview, of course to take notes, but also to show that not only am I a man of taste, but a man who has achieved the type of success it takes to purchase a $200 pen. But that was years ago. I recently went into a jewelry store to get my Tag fixed, and the effeminate gent behind the counter told me that my particular Mont Blanc now goes for up to $500. But I digress...and point being that this fine piece of art/pen ran out of f'n ink as I was taking notes. Still was able to write invisible scratches on the paper, but hopefully that didn't send a bad message.
That was exactly 2 weeks ago. I called yesterday. "Still status quo," the nice HR Lady said. You know, with the holidays and all that, haven't had a chance to "sit down and talk." Which I buy. However, when I have not been able to get past the first interview, I do begin to worry...
And Christ, I turn 30 in September. Let's all hope that some big mf'n sh*t is gonna go down real soon. Real soon, my people.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Mr. Utley: The Educator/Ski Lift Operator
Finally began my substitute teacher duties. Only about 10 months after I starting talking about it! Teaching the little ones. Started last week, so far have "taught" pre-K, Kindegarten and 3rd grade. It's actually kind of fun. The children seem to like me. They must be able to see deep down into my kindhearted soul.
It has all gone smoothly for the most part, with the exception of a small fight breaking out in my 3rd grade class and the one little wiseguy who felt it necessary to kick a pair of somebody's soiled, abandoned skivvies into the classroom from the bathroom. He was attempting to be a funny guy. So, how did I handle this situation you may wonder? I had this little pr*ck pick up said soiled skivvies and carry them down three floors to the lost and found. Nobody gets one by ol' Utley!
And I've also accepted a position at a local ski area. I will be working nights as a lift attendant. Or "liftie" to those in the industry. Standing outside on cold winter nights and helping the skiers safely onto the chairlift.
So here's where I stand for now: For the foreseeable future, I will be working most days teaching and most night at the ski area. Goal is to at least earn some respectable income, which in turn gives me more time to search for the "golden opportunity;" meaning the full time sales/marketing opportunity I've been looking for. Until then, I am getting in touch with my blue collar roots...
The month of October was actually pretty busy with interviews, although no bites. Some of the interviews I went on merely for the interviewing experience, and a couple of the interviews I was actually really interested in the position. Haven't heard an official "no" from the front-running company, but it has been a while now, so I'm really not banking on it. Thought the interview went so well!
So, loyal followers, I am still here, still plugging away. Perhaps this holiday season will bring some good luck for me, in the form of the dream gig. But we wait patiently. And in the meantime, you can find me wiping runny noses and making sure the little ones are sitting "criss coss applesauce" in their appropriate spots on the reading rug...
It has all gone smoothly for the most part, with the exception of a small fight breaking out in my 3rd grade class and the one little wiseguy who felt it necessary to kick a pair of somebody's soiled, abandoned skivvies into the classroom from the bathroom. He was attempting to be a funny guy. So, how did I handle this situation you may wonder? I had this little pr*ck pick up said soiled skivvies and carry them down three floors to the lost and found. Nobody gets one by ol' Utley!
And I've also accepted a position at a local ski area. I will be working nights as a lift attendant. Or "liftie" to those in the industry. Standing outside on cold winter nights and helping the skiers safely onto the chairlift.
So here's where I stand for now: For the foreseeable future, I will be working most days teaching and most night at the ski area. Goal is to at least earn some respectable income, which in turn gives me more time to search for the "golden opportunity;" meaning the full time sales/marketing opportunity I've been looking for. Until then, I am getting in touch with my blue collar roots...
The month of October was actually pretty busy with interviews, although no bites. Some of the interviews I went on merely for the interviewing experience, and a couple of the interviews I was actually really interested in the position. Haven't heard an official "no" from the front-running company, but it has been a while now, so I'm really not banking on it. Thought the interview went so well!
So, loyal followers, I am still here, still plugging away. Perhaps this holiday season will bring some good luck for me, in the form of the dream gig. But we wait patiently. And in the meantime, you can find me wiping runny noses and making sure the little ones are sitting "criss coss applesauce" in their appropriate spots on the reading rug...
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Making Strides
Utley is back b*tches! And the good news is I have been interviewing. Finally!
Over the past few weeks, I have interviewed at three different companies. And they shall remain nameless, in hopes of not "jinxing" any of the opportunities.
And oddly enough, the three opportunities are all very different. Similar in the fact that 2 are sales positions, and the other is a marketing position. One sales interview I got through LinkedIn, and the other through networking. The marketing position was obtained via responding to a posting on the company's website. Also, the marketing position requires obviously creativity and a marketing background, but also the ability to successfully interact with the sales staff. If anyone can work with other sales dbags, I certainly can!
I felt very prepared for all of the interviews. And I do attribute that to working with my Career Management Consultant, the CMC. I felt I have been prepated for all the questions asked, but also the proper questions to ask each respective company. So been happy with the CMC thus far. F'n should be, right, it was so f'n expensive! The only thing that disappoints me about the CMC is that they really do not help me find prospective companies. They are great with preparing me for interviews, and hopefully will continue to be as the interview process moves along. But I have to find the companies on my own, which I did expect to do, however, when I intitially met with the CMC, the woman spewed a bunch of happy horsesh*t about employers contacting them and having a tight network of recruiters etc; That must have been some serious BS, because nothing proactive has come from them. They will send me a Hoovers report on a company I'm interested in, but thats it. But, despite the minor b*tching, I am glad I have someone to brief and debrief with before and after each interview.
In other news, speaking with various people I know, all in their late 20's, it seems many people are "less than thrilled" with the current state of employment at this stage in the game. I even know some others who have done the same thing I have...taken an upaid sabbatical. More power to them! Let's all hope we all get what we're looking for.
If you have been reading this blog, you must have noticed the ups and downs I have been going through. Because I have had ups and downs, smiles and frowns... But it's really nice to get support from people. Got an email a couple weeks ago from an old college friend, first expressing her support for me, saying I did the right thing, but also expressing some worries, as I obviously haven't been writing as much. I've explained it as writer's block/not wanting to jinx anything/not wanting to write when I was experiencing little progress. Or write about the good times I was having, when it'd probably be better if I just shut the f up. But hearing from this person (who may or may not have been the former love of my life) really made me feel better and realize that I'm not alone, that it took some serious cojones to do what I did, and to have faith that it was the right move and it'll all work out it the end...
So, I thank you all who have reached out with their support and stay tuned, we just may be on to something...
Over the past few weeks, I have interviewed at three different companies. And they shall remain nameless, in hopes of not "jinxing" any of the opportunities.
And oddly enough, the three opportunities are all very different. Similar in the fact that 2 are sales positions, and the other is a marketing position. One sales interview I got through LinkedIn, and the other through networking. The marketing position was obtained via responding to a posting on the company's website. Also, the marketing position requires obviously creativity and a marketing background, but also the ability to successfully interact with the sales staff. If anyone can work with other sales dbags, I certainly can!
I felt very prepared for all of the interviews. And I do attribute that to working with my Career Management Consultant, the CMC. I felt I have been prepated for all the questions asked, but also the proper questions to ask each respective company. So been happy with the CMC thus far. F'n should be, right, it was so f'n expensive! The only thing that disappoints me about the CMC is that they really do not help me find prospective companies. They are great with preparing me for interviews, and hopefully will continue to be as the interview process moves along. But I have to find the companies on my own, which I did expect to do, however, when I intitially met with the CMC, the woman spewed a bunch of happy horsesh*t about employers contacting them and having a tight network of recruiters etc; That must have been some serious BS, because nothing proactive has come from them. They will send me a Hoovers report on a company I'm interested in, but thats it. But, despite the minor b*tching, I am glad I have someone to brief and debrief with before and after each interview.
In other news, speaking with various people I know, all in their late 20's, it seems many people are "less than thrilled" with the current state of employment at this stage in the game. I even know some others who have done the same thing I have...taken an upaid sabbatical. More power to them! Let's all hope we all get what we're looking for.
If you have been reading this blog, you must have noticed the ups and downs I have been going through. Because I have had ups and downs, smiles and frowns... But it's really nice to get support from people. Got an email a couple weeks ago from an old college friend, first expressing her support for me, saying I did the right thing, but also expressing some worries, as I obviously haven't been writing as much. I've explained it as writer's block/not wanting to jinx anything/not wanting to write when I was experiencing little progress. Or write about the good times I was having, when it'd probably be better if I just shut the f up. But hearing from this person (who may or may not have been the former love of my life) really made me feel better and realize that I'm not alone, that it took some serious cojones to do what I did, and to have faith that it was the right move and it'll all work out it the end...
So, I thank you all who have reached out with their support and stay tuned, we just may be on to something...
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Hey
I'm alive.
I really am. Obviously haven't been writing. Lost the urge a bit. Felt like I had nothing to say. Kept reporting doom and gloom. Which was putting me in not the best of moods. But I haven't forgotten about all of you. Or the blog. Just haven't been ready.
I turned 29 a couple weeks ago. Last year of my twenties. Wow. Let's hope this will be the year! The year for what you may ask? The year for everything, that's what. But mainly, the year to truly find myself...in many ways.
I'm not going to go into detail, but I've actually had a couple interviews lately. One of the companies I'd love to work for, the other not so much. I'm just so happy to finally get an interview. And I must say, I felt very comfortable and prepared in one of the interviews. The one I want. The other one...felt fine, but it was different.
I've also been working a bit. A little bit. But it's kind of cool, at least I think...I've been working putting up signs for my city's top candidate for mayor. Pays cash, gets me out of the house, and who knows, it may lead to a valuable connection with our future mayor.
Have an interview next week for substitute teaching. My thinking, is, of course, I need money, but to use this activity to gain positive momentum and land the big one.
So, I know its been a while, but just needed to back off for a minute, stop talking and start doing.
Time will tell if that's the "write" idea...
I really am. Obviously haven't been writing. Lost the urge a bit. Felt like I had nothing to say. Kept reporting doom and gloom. Which was putting me in not the best of moods. But I haven't forgotten about all of you. Or the blog. Just haven't been ready.
I turned 29 a couple weeks ago. Last year of my twenties. Wow. Let's hope this will be the year! The year for what you may ask? The year for everything, that's what. But mainly, the year to truly find myself...in many ways.
I'm not going to go into detail, but I've actually had a couple interviews lately. One of the companies I'd love to work for, the other not so much. I'm just so happy to finally get an interview. And I must say, I felt very comfortable and prepared in one of the interviews. The one I want. The other one...felt fine, but it was different.
I've also been working a bit. A little bit. But it's kind of cool, at least I think...I've been working putting up signs for my city's top candidate for mayor. Pays cash, gets me out of the house, and who knows, it may lead to a valuable connection with our future mayor.
Have an interview next week for substitute teaching. My thinking, is, of course, I need money, but to use this activity to gain positive momentum and land the big one.
So, I know its been a while, but just needed to back off for a minute, stop talking and start doing.
Time will tell if that's the "write" idea...
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Its September...
I have been approached by numerous people who were a bit "concerned" shall we say, regarding the last post I put up. Which was about two weeks ago. Not gonna lie, past couple weeks were a little tough. However, after a tremendous outpouring of support, I ended up not resigning from the fantasy football league. As I said, the move was probably an overreaction.
And last week unfortunately, my grandmother passed. This was tough for me, as I had been spending a fair amount of time with her, going to dinner with her over the past 6 months, as well as visiting her weekly while she had been in the nursing home and hospital over the past 2 months. She was my last blood grandparent. So last week, my focus really was not on "finding a job."
Although I may have found a "lead" at the memorial service. I don't know if I mentioned it, but my uncle, who lives in St. Croix, owns an independent supermarket, and his father owned up to 6 grocery stores at one point. (You may recall a follower of the blog suggesting I get into the grocery business...) Well, my uncle introduced me to the VP of Sales at a company called Associated Grocers, a large wholesale grocery coop. This company I know for a fact is growing "muy rapido." We spoke for a bit, he asked for a resume, I sent it, and he suggested we get together in a couple weeks. So, who knows, maybe something will come out of this whole thing...
Also, I actually just had my first positive conversation with a recruiter. He was very nice, is in charge of the company's newly formed sales/marketing staffing division; we spoke for a while, he seemed "not unimpressed" with what I had to say and let me know about a position he currently had an opening for. An inside sales/technology role, which I'm probably not interested in at the time, but I liked the way the conversation went. So lets hope for some positive karma here...
No bites on anything Liberty Mutual yet either...
And last week unfortunately, my grandmother passed. This was tough for me, as I had been spending a fair amount of time with her, going to dinner with her over the past 6 months, as well as visiting her weekly while she had been in the nursing home and hospital over the past 2 months. She was my last blood grandparent. So last week, my focus really was not on "finding a job."
Although I may have found a "lead" at the memorial service. I don't know if I mentioned it, but my uncle, who lives in St. Croix, owns an independent supermarket, and his father owned up to 6 grocery stores at one point. (You may recall a follower of the blog suggesting I get into the grocery business...) Well, my uncle introduced me to the VP of Sales at a company called Associated Grocers, a large wholesale grocery coop. This company I know for a fact is growing "muy rapido." We spoke for a bit, he asked for a resume, I sent it, and he suggested we get together in a couple weeks. So, who knows, maybe something will come out of this whole thing...
Also, I actually just had my first positive conversation with a recruiter. He was very nice, is in charge of the company's newly formed sales/marketing staffing division; we spoke for a while, he seemed "not unimpressed" with what I had to say and let me know about a position he currently had an opening for. An inside sales/technology role, which I'm probably not interested in at the time, but I liked the way the conversation went. So lets hope for some positive karma here...
No bites on anything Liberty Mutual yet either...
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Almost Famous
What, are you like the star of your school?
They hate me.
You'll meet them all again on their long journey to the middle.
They hate me.
You'll meet them all again on their long journey to the middle.
I was reading an article earlier this morning by The Sports Guy, ESPN's Bill Simmons. He wrote a column comparing this current NBA Offseason to one of our generation's greatest films, "Almost Famous." He utilized quotes from the coming of age film to illustrate his points regarding certain NBA players.
Stemming from an incident that occurred last night/this morning, the above quote struck me. If you recall, the quote in the movie takes place during a conversation between the film's protagonist, awkward teen William Miller, played to a tee by Patrick Fugit, and the character played by Philip Seymour Hoffman, a writer, who is giving young William advice. I think it is such an epic quote, one that rings so true for all of us, thinking back to our awkward high school years.
Anyway, a friend of mine, posted some sh*tty things about me in our Fantasy Football message board. Which, by the way, I am the commissioner of the league. This "friend" was reacting to an earlier post from me, and he went over the top, attacking my current state of "joblessness" and my "sense of entitlement", because I write a blog, talking, talking, talking, about work/job, not actually doing it.
Well, in probably an over reactionary move, I resigned my post as Commish and also resigned from the league. F that.
I will admit, I am facing an uphill battle at this stage in the game, one which I created for myself. But, in the face adversity, one must buckle down, suck it up, and overcome. Adapt and overcome, that is. I learned that theory and college and try to live by it.
My goal is to learn from this low point in my life. Learn from it. Grow from it. And perservere from it. Have it make me a better man. A better man who will use this sh*t as fuel on my way to the top.
And on that way to the top, "I'll see you again, on your long journey to the middle."
Stemming from an incident that occurred last night/this morning, the above quote struck me. If you recall, the quote in the movie takes place during a conversation between the film's protagonist, awkward teen William Miller, played to a tee by Patrick Fugit, and the character played by Philip Seymour Hoffman, a writer, who is giving young William advice. I think it is such an epic quote, one that rings so true for all of us, thinking back to our awkward high school years.
Anyway, a friend of mine, posted some sh*tty things about me in our Fantasy Football message board. Which, by the way, I am the commissioner of the league. This "friend" was reacting to an earlier post from me, and he went over the top, attacking my current state of "joblessness" and my "sense of entitlement", because I write a blog, talking, talking, talking, about work/job, not actually doing it.
Well, in probably an over reactionary move, I resigned my post as Commish and also resigned from the league. F that.
I will admit, I am facing an uphill battle at this stage in the game, one which I created for myself. But, in the face adversity, one must buckle down, suck it up, and overcome. Adapt and overcome, that is. I learned that theory and college and try to live by it.
My goal is to learn from this low point in my life. Learn from it. Grow from it. And perservere from it. Have it make me a better man. A better man who will use this sh*t as fuel on my way to the top.
And on that way to the top, "I'll see you again, on your long journey to the middle."
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Blaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!
Proactively called a meeting with the CMC (Career Management Consultant) on Monday. As an attempt to keep myself motivated, check in, get some fresh ideas, etc; We went back over the fundamentals of the job search campaign. Which was good. I always leave that place feeling confident. He tells me I will get a job, companies would kill to have someone like me, that the fruits of my labor will pay off soon enough. When people get back to reality in September and sh*t. I hope that is true! Really just like to get in front of a live person. With a personality.
As you loyal followers may have remembered, I have/had decided I wanted to solely pursue the Insurance field, mainly Group Benefits Wholesaling...got a friend who does well, etc; This is not totally out, however I recently have been more focused not on that gig, but getting into a very reputable local company, Libery Mutual. I know 5-6 people who work there, one of whom is a very good friend. Who after, let's say seven years of working there, has 5 weeks of vacation, and has just been granted to go on a sabbatical. A real sabbatical, not like mine...
None of this has anything to do with the type of work I'll be doing. Does it even matter? I want to make good money, get benefits, have a great opportunity for upward mobility. I want to be a big shot. It's weird. I have networked, spoken, socialized, drank with many on these so-called "big shots." And I fit in, can hold my own, whether it comes do conversation, wit, look, whatever. Hence, I'd like to put myself in an opportunity, where if I work hard, do good work, get along with people, I can move up. Financially and in status. Because I can handle it. I have told people no matter what position you put me in, I'll do it and do it well. Yeah.
So I want to get into Liberty Mutual. I've applied for 1 job, which now that I think of it, I posted the rejection letter. Maybe I should go back and read these posts sometime. Anyway, the other position I have not heard back from, but my app was submitted through a friend. Not sabbatical friend. Other guy, whom I was told to submit through by another guy I know, who's a VP. Apparently, this VP cannot submit apps at his level. But, there's got to be some level of influence...
I saw another job opening that looked super cool, but again, its an "MBA Preferred" position. I know I can do the job, but I don't want to just submit to every position I see..., if I applied to that position, it'd make 3 I submitted for. I don't want to look like some type of a**hole here, you know?
My next move is to investigate a little deeper into the personnel, try to find SOMEONE who will meet with me, to let them see me in person, to see I'm a big stud. Also contact VP friend and see if he has any other bright ideas...or recommendations or referrals...Got to find some way in the door! I know, I know, patience....
On a positive, un-job related note, last week I fired an 86, a career low, on the golf course, while at the same type beating my good friend, who is way better than me and always beats me. Fired a 90 this week. Like I said, Un Job related...
Today, while doing these activities, writing letters, net surfing, researching, etc; my goal is to not wear a shirt the entire day. I think I can do it, as long as I don't decided to go to the store. Wish me luck. A real hero.
As you loyal followers may have remembered, I have/had decided I wanted to solely pursue the Insurance field, mainly Group Benefits Wholesaling...got a friend who does well, etc; This is not totally out, however I recently have been more focused not on that gig, but getting into a very reputable local company, Libery Mutual. I know 5-6 people who work there, one of whom is a very good friend. Who after, let's say seven years of working there, has 5 weeks of vacation, and has just been granted to go on a sabbatical. A real sabbatical, not like mine...
None of this has anything to do with the type of work I'll be doing. Does it even matter? I want to make good money, get benefits, have a great opportunity for upward mobility. I want to be a big shot. It's weird. I have networked, spoken, socialized, drank with many on these so-called "big shots." And I fit in, can hold my own, whether it comes do conversation, wit, look, whatever. Hence, I'd like to put myself in an opportunity, where if I work hard, do good work, get along with people, I can move up. Financially and in status. Because I can handle it. I have told people no matter what position you put me in, I'll do it and do it well. Yeah.
So I want to get into Liberty Mutual. I've applied for 1 job, which now that I think of it, I posted the rejection letter. Maybe I should go back and read these posts sometime. Anyway, the other position I have not heard back from, but my app was submitted through a friend. Not sabbatical friend. Other guy, whom I was told to submit through by another guy I know, who's a VP. Apparently, this VP cannot submit apps at his level. But, there's got to be some level of influence...
I saw another job opening that looked super cool, but again, its an "MBA Preferred" position. I know I can do the job, but I don't want to just submit to every position I see..., if I applied to that position, it'd make 3 I submitted for. I don't want to look like some type of a**hole here, you know?
My next move is to investigate a little deeper into the personnel, try to find SOMEONE who will meet with me, to let them see me in person, to see I'm a big stud. Also contact VP friend and see if he has any other bright ideas...or recommendations or referrals...Got to find some way in the door! I know, I know, patience....
On a positive, un-job related note, last week I fired an 86, a career low, on the golf course, while at the same type beating my good friend, who is way better than me and always beats me. Fired a 90 this week. Like I said, Un Job related...
Today, while doing these activities, writing letters, net surfing, researching, etc; my goal is to not wear a shirt the entire day. I think I can do it, as long as I don't decided to go to the store. Wish me luck. A real hero.
Monday, August 10, 2009
I'm Back
Back to the blog on this fine Monday in August. Yes, I'm aware no posts last week. If anyone is still reading and following along on this journey called On Sabbatical.
Last Monday, while leaving the gym, I got notice that I would not be invited in for an interview at Lewtan, the company I applied to for a sales position, and where I also knew several people working there. Apparently not enough of a finance background. Although deep down I knew I didn't really want the position, I would have at least liked to be asked in for an interview. But things happen for reasons, so I'm hoping, big picture, this was a good thing.
Despite perhaps not being 100% super psyched about the Lewtan position, the news last Monday kind of bummed me out. Put me in a bit of a funk. You see, I applied for 2 positions recently where I knew a lot of people employed at said company. I was hoping that the whole "its not what you know, but who you know thing" would come to play. But is hasn't yet. But I know I need to be patient during this process.
However, one of my contacts at Liberty Mutual was able to cheer me up a bit. He explained that he did not get into Liberty until the 2nd or 3rd job he applied for, despite having a very good contact high up within the company. And, as we know, I was denied for the first position I applied for. I applied for position #2 earlier today. I'm thinking I'd really like to get into Liberty Mutual. Big company, which means plenty of money to pay, lots of room for upward mobility, great benefits, and lots of positions available (not necessarily available know, but in the future) whether they are sales or marketing roles.
As with getting an interview, I know I can make a positive impact within a company once I get in front of an actual live person. This has always been the case. Just need to get the interview first.
I have been writing some good cover letters, and I believe my resume is legit. So I wait and keep my eye on prospective opportunities.
However, when I applied to Lewtan, my friend noticed a couple mistakes in my resume. Of course I should have noticed these; my friend then wondered if the CMC I hired came up with this. He did put the resume together. For all the money I paid this company, I was a little bummed that there were typos. I had proofread it, but just hadn't seen the errors. And I had been sending out this resume to numerous companies and execs...maybe they didn't notice. Even though the resume content is ultimately up to me, I was upset that the errors were there in the first place. So...confidence in calling anyone I sent the bad resumes to was, shall we say, lacking.
So last Thursday took off for a brief family vacation up to Vermont. Should have been a carefree, relaxing time, but family issues kind of stressed me out a bit. So I did escape for a day to a friends house and went up to beautiful Lake Champlain, where we took the boat out for a terrific day on the big lake. Something about being on water that has a calming effect on me.
State of mind is better starting this week so far...this question is, can I roll with it? Hopefully roll with it better than the Red Sox have been rolling since the trade deadline...
Last Monday, while leaving the gym, I got notice that I would not be invited in for an interview at Lewtan, the company I applied to for a sales position, and where I also knew several people working there. Apparently not enough of a finance background. Although deep down I knew I didn't really want the position, I would have at least liked to be asked in for an interview. But things happen for reasons, so I'm hoping, big picture, this was a good thing.
Despite perhaps not being 100% super psyched about the Lewtan position, the news last Monday kind of bummed me out. Put me in a bit of a funk. You see, I applied for 2 positions recently where I knew a lot of people employed at said company. I was hoping that the whole "its not what you know, but who you know thing" would come to play. But is hasn't yet. But I know I need to be patient during this process.
However, one of my contacts at Liberty Mutual was able to cheer me up a bit. He explained that he did not get into Liberty until the 2nd or 3rd job he applied for, despite having a very good contact high up within the company. And, as we know, I was denied for the first position I applied for. I applied for position #2 earlier today. I'm thinking I'd really like to get into Liberty Mutual. Big company, which means plenty of money to pay, lots of room for upward mobility, great benefits, and lots of positions available (not necessarily available know, but in the future) whether they are sales or marketing roles.
As with getting an interview, I know I can make a positive impact within a company once I get in front of an actual live person. This has always been the case. Just need to get the interview first.
I have been writing some good cover letters, and I believe my resume is legit. So I wait and keep my eye on prospective opportunities.
However, when I applied to Lewtan, my friend noticed a couple mistakes in my resume. Of course I should have noticed these; my friend then wondered if the CMC I hired came up with this. He did put the resume together. For all the money I paid this company, I was a little bummed that there were typos. I had proofread it, but just hadn't seen the errors. And I had been sending out this resume to numerous companies and execs...maybe they didn't notice. Even though the resume content is ultimately up to me, I was upset that the errors were there in the first place. So...confidence in calling anyone I sent the bad resumes to was, shall we say, lacking.
So last Thursday took off for a brief family vacation up to Vermont. Should have been a carefree, relaxing time, but family issues kind of stressed me out a bit. So I did escape for a day to a friends house and went up to beautiful Lake Champlain, where we took the boat out for a terrific day on the big lake. Something about being on water that has a calming effect on me.
State of mind is better starting this week so far...this question is, can I roll with it? Hopefully roll with it better than the Red Sox have been rolling since the trade deadline...
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Ask and Ye Shall Recieve
One must be careful what they wish for:
Thank you for your application for the position of Marketing Analyst-07179. At this time we have decided to pursue other candidates whose background and skills more closely match our requirements for this position.
Although we have decided not to proceed with your candidacy for this position we will retain your candidate file in our database and may inform you of job openings that match your profile if you selected this option. We also invite you to visit http://www.libertymutual.com regularly and apply to openings that are suited to your qualifications and of interest to you.
We thank you for your interest and wish you all the best in your career.
Best regards,
Human Resources Department
Thank you for your application for the position of Marketing Analyst-07179. At this time we have decided to pursue other candidates whose background and skills more closely match our requirements for this position.
Although we have decided not to proceed with your candidacy for this position we will retain your candidate file in our database and may inform you of job openings that match your profile if you selected this option. We also invite you to visit http://www.libertymutual.com regularly and apply to openings that are suited to your qualifications and of interest to you.
We thank you for your interest and wish you all the best in your career.
Best regards,
Human Resources Department
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
CCCCCheck it
It's finally summer here in New England! Sweltering humidity, uncomfortable heat, loud cracking T storms....yes, the dog days are summer are here. Suck it.
Last weekend I participated in a New England summer tradition that is, for lack of a better term, the absolute balls. Beach on the coast of Maine, big waves, body surfing, urinating in the ocean, steamers, chowda, burgers, seasonal cocktails, music, campfire and great company. Those/these are the times from which memories are made.
Applied to another job today. And keep in mind, I'm NOT simply applying for jobs for the hell of it. I'm looking for a CAREER; a position that will be both personally and professionally rewarding for years to come. The position today is with Anthem BC/BS. Specialty Sales Manager. "Responsible for acquiring new specialty business through brokers in conjunction with the health account executive..." This obviously sounds like a manager's role, but I have been looking for the broker-sales model, so why not?
The frustrating thing for me right now is that although I applied for a couple jobs in the past 10 days or so (where I know 4-5 people at each company) I have yet to hear back from either about scheduling an interview. It is frustrating because of all the unknowns: do they not want me? will they let me know if they don't want me? Have they just not gotten around to calling yet? Will they call at all? Am I qualified? When will they call? You get the point. But we know this already. Companies hiring typically do not have the same urgency as the actual job seeker themselves. Boo who. Boo mothagrabbin' who I say!
Last weekend I participated in a New England summer tradition that is, for lack of a better term, the absolute balls. Beach on the coast of Maine, big waves, body surfing, urinating in the ocean, steamers, chowda, burgers, seasonal cocktails, music, campfire and great company. Those/these are the times from which memories are made.
Applied to another job today. And keep in mind, I'm NOT simply applying for jobs for the hell of it. I'm looking for a CAREER; a position that will be both personally and professionally rewarding for years to come. The position today is with Anthem BC/BS. Specialty Sales Manager. "Responsible for acquiring new specialty business through brokers in conjunction with the health account executive..." This obviously sounds like a manager's role, but I have been looking for the broker-sales model, so why not?
The frustrating thing for me right now is that although I applied for a couple jobs in the past 10 days or so (where I know 4-5 people at each company) I have yet to hear back from either about scheduling an interview. It is frustrating because of all the unknowns: do they not want me? will they let me know if they don't want me? Have they just not gotten around to calling yet? Will they call at all? Am I qualified? When will they call? You get the point. But we know this already. Companies hiring typically do not have the same urgency as the actual job seeker themselves. Boo who. Boo mothagrabbin' who I say!
Friday, July 24, 2009
It's Friday...
and, as the immortal Ice Cube stated in the epic film Friday, "ain't got no job, ain't got sh*t to do..." Fill in the blanks with the rest if you like.
I will now share an recap of a conversation I recently had with a Mutual of Omaha District Manager. If you recall, I believe I posted the initial email I sent him. Very professional. I'd been told by a recruiter that I should investigate Mutual of Omaha's Life Experience Hire Group Benefits Rep program. So I respond to this gent's job posting on LinkedIn. I kind of knew he'd be looking to hire straight commission Insurance Agents, but figured I could just talk to him and pick his brain. Get pointed in the right direction, if you will. We finally caught up and oh my, what a dbag. Hence, I will now refer to him as "said dbag."
Said dbag first asks what I've been up to. I tell him my story. I mention what I like about sales and don't like, and what type of sales job I'm looking for. And not looking for. After saying I didn't want the type of gig where I'd have to sell all my friends and family and work on straight commission he immediately got defensive. I then told him how I had a friend who does very well in the group benefits field. And I was looking for a wholesale role.
Said dbag than proceeds to jump on his soap box and belt out quite a soliloquy; saying he's been a wholesaler forever and companies only want to promote from within; if you don't bring in tons of business they will fire you. "If you don't have established relationships you will not succeed. The days of wholesale reps making 250, 300k are over" he whined. "Why is that?" I ask, looking for a somewhat constructive answer. "Because that's how it is", lamented said dbag. I'd already been thinking that this guy sounded like he'd been burned in the past; that he'd been bent over a time or two...at his request. But after his "because that's how it is" line I knew this guy was a joke. Even if he was right, he was a joke.
I then mention the name of the recruiter who told me to check out Mutual of Omaha for group opportunities. And by the way, I felt this recruiter was super professional, knowledgeable, and an overall useful asset. Said dbag says first that, M of O doesn't have wholesale reps. Ummm, OK. Then he says that the recruiter I spoke with "was OK...he's not a heavy hitter by any means." At this point, said dbag sounded like whiny little b*tch. Bashing recruiters? Come on. Really, speaking negatively about anyone, especially during the first conversation, is quite tacky. Ashy. Very little class. Thats why we call said dbag, "Said dbag." The conversation didn't last much longer. I asked if knew of anyone I could speak with further, or could make any recommendations. He rattled off a few names, didn't know how to spell them and didn't give company names along with them. OK, thanks for your time, said dbag.
This exchange basically reminded me that there are going to be those people in any profession. The bottom feeders. The dbags. The people who don't get it. The people who have a chip on their shoulder. The people who don't have a lot of friends. The people who are negative, and have an overall negative impact on society. And as is the theme with my life these days and my job search, one must remain positive, because you have to sift through a lot of BS in order to make it in the world. There's so many obstacles to hurdle, it's difficult to stay positive and focused, but we try. We try. We vent in blogs. Even if we don't vent in blogs as we did a few months ago...but I digress...
I will now share an recap of a conversation I recently had with a Mutual of Omaha District Manager. If you recall, I believe I posted the initial email I sent him. Very professional. I'd been told by a recruiter that I should investigate Mutual of Omaha's Life Experience Hire Group Benefits Rep program. So I respond to this gent's job posting on LinkedIn. I kind of knew he'd be looking to hire straight commission Insurance Agents, but figured I could just talk to him and pick his brain. Get pointed in the right direction, if you will. We finally caught up and oh my, what a dbag. Hence, I will now refer to him as "said dbag."
Said dbag first asks what I've been up to. I tell him my story. I mention what I like about sales and don't like, and what type of sales job I'm looking for. And not looking for. After saying I didn't want the type of gig where I'd have to sell all my friends and family and work on straight commission he immediately got defensive. I then told him how I had a friend who does very well in the group benefits field. And I was looking for a wholesale role.
Said dbag than proceeds to jump on his soap box and belt out quite a soliloquy; saying he's been a wholesaler forever and companies only want to promote from within; if you don't bring in tons of business they will fire you. "If you don't have established relationships you will not succeed. The days of wholesale reps making 250, 300k are over" he whined. "Why is that?" I ask, looking for a somewhat constructive answer. "Because that's how it is", lamented said dbag. I'd already been thinking that this guy sounded like he'd been burned in the past; that he'd been bent over a time or two...at his request. But after his "because that's how it is" line I knew this guy was a joke. Even if he was right, he was a joke.
I then mention the name of the recruiter who told me to check out Mutual of Omaha for group opportunities. And by the way, I felt this recruiter was super professional, knowledgeable, and an overall useful asset. Said dbag says first that, M of O doesn't have wholesale reps. Ummm, OK. Then he says that the recruiter I spoke with "was OK...he's not a heavy hitter by any means." At this point, said dbag sounded like whiny little b*tch. Bashing recruiters? Come on. Really, speaking negatively about anyone, especially during the first conversation, is quite tacky. Ashy. Very little class. Thats why we call said dbag, "Said dbag." The conversation didn't last much longer. I asked if knew of anyone I could speak with further, or could make any recommendations. He rattled off a few names, didn't know how to spell them and didn't give company names along with them. OK, thanks for your time, said dbag.
This exchange basically reminded me that there are going to be those people in any profession. The bottom feeders. The dbags. The people who don't get it. The people who have a chip on their shoulder. The people who don't have a lot of friends. The people who are negative, and have an overall negative impact on society. And as is the theme with my life these days and my job search, one must remain positive, because you have to sift through a lot of BS in order to make it in the world. There's so many obstacles to hurdle, it's difficult to stay positive and focused, but we try. We try. We vent in blogs. Even if we don't vent in blogs as we did a few months ago...but I digress...
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Progress?
Saw Elton John/Billy Joel at Gillette this past weekend. Went down on a bus with nearly 50 people. Epic times. One of the better live shows I've seen. I suggest you check it out.
Applied for two positions in the past few days. Not just applied for the sake of applying, but I am actually interested in the positions. The first of which is a sales position, a higher end position, like I've been looking for. I know 5 employees at this company. Should at least be able to get an interview, right?
The second is a bit different. It's a non-sales role. Marketing Analyst to be exact. And whadya know, I was a marketing major in college. Though my experience has been predominantly in sales (which falls under the marketing category), I do possess some basic marketing knowledge. Anyway, the position seems great, with tremendous upward mobility, and the opportunity to present in front of "senior level execs". Get me in front of a room full of senior level execs, and look out, the possibilities may be endless. However, only if they have personalities. Also know 4 people who work there. Large company, so not sure how that whole systems works...but we shall see.
So, why don't we keep our fingers crossed here for the time being, and see what the near future holds for one Mr. Utley...
Applied for two positions in the past few days. Not just applied for the sake of applying, but I am actually interested in the positions. The first of which is a sales position, a higher end position, like I've been looking for. I know 5 employees at this company. Should at least be able to get an interview, right?
The second is a bit different. It's a non-sales role. Marketing Analyst to be exact. And whadya know, I was a marketing major in college. Though my experience has been predominantly in sales (which falls under the marketing category), I do possess some basic marketing knowledge. Anyway, the position seems great, with tremendous upward mobility, and the opportunity to present in front of "senior level execs". Get me in front of a room full of senior level execs, and look out, the possibilities may be endless. However, only if they have personalities. Also know 4 people who work there. Large company, so not sure how that whole systems works...but we shall see.
So, why don't we keep our fingers crossed here for the time being, and see what the near future holds for one Mr. Utley...
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Rolling On
So one thing I've learned throughout this process is that people do not call back. This should not be a shocking revelation to me, with all my years of sales experience, leaving voice mails only to never hear back from that person again, until that one lucky day when you catch them on the phone. I wonder what people think when they listen to my voice mails? They must not think much!
On somewhat of a positive note, I applied for a job at a company called Lewtan Technologies. I saw an opening online, and lo and behold I know about 5 people who work for that company. So I contacted a friend of mine who is submitting my resume. The company is made up of not only Bentley College alums, like myself, but also alums of my old fraternity. So if I can't get an interview here...well, then we may have issues.
The field is a bit different than the insurance gigs I've been shooting for, but I think its close to the type of high end sale I've been looking for, and I believe it pays well. Plus a "warm" referral. Who knows, we may have stumbled upon something. We may have not.
What I have started thinking about is when I do land that job, what I will write about, watching this thing come full circle, wondering if it was worth it, what I've learned, etc;
But we are definitely not there yet, so let's not count chickens here.
On somewhat of a positive note, I applied for a job at a company called Lewtan Technologies. I saw an opening online, and lo and behold I know about 5 people who work for that company. So I contacted a friend of mine who is submitting my resume. The company is made up of not only Bentley College alums, like myself, but also alums of my old fraternity. So if I can't get an interview here...well, then we may have issues.
The field is a bit different than the insurance gigs I've been shooting for, but I think its close to the type of high end sale I've been looking for, and I believe it pays well. Plus a "warm" referral. Who knows, we may have stumbled upon something. We may have not.
What I have started thinking about is when I do land that job, what I will write about, watching this thing come full circle, wondering if it was worth it, what I've learned, etc;
But we are definitely not there yet, so let's not count chickens here.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Couldn't Have Said It Better Myself
I read the following blog this morning, from Penelope Trunk's Brazen Careerist. While not really a Palin fan...I like the tone of this article and wanted to share...
Sarah Palin's resignation inspires me
There are a million times we intuitively know what we should be doing in our careers, but the chatter around us makes us question ourselves. Too much. If I have one regret in my career it’s that I didn’t trust myself more, earlier.
Watching Sarah Palin resign from her governor post in Alaska inspires me to be more brave in my own career. She’s running her career in ways I intuitively think we should all be running our careers. And she’s reflecting my own experience back to me in a positive way: That breaking new ground is difficult but it pays off.
Here are four new career management ideas that Sarah Palin's modeling, in an inspiring way, right now:
1. Get out of a job when you're done doing it
We know that the old ways of managing a career aren’t working. But it’s so scary to try something new. For example, you know you should job hop, but it’s not what careers used to be. And it’s scary. People are constantly telling you you’ll destroy your career if you job hop.
But Palin is refusing to waste her time in the Alaska governor’s office. Who can blame her? It’s a lot of small-issue local politics that take away from her establishing big, national-level ideas. Of course quitting a local job is a good idea if you want to run for national office.
But most people who run for national office pretend to still be in their local-level office. When McCain announced he paused his presidential campaign to go back to congress, he was widely mocked, because really, if you are running for president, you can’t be in congress. But for some reason we have been embracing the bullshit value that it’s more important to stay in your job and perform badly than to admit you want to change jobs.
I like that Palin refuses to kowtow to the idea that you have to finish a job just because you started it. There is always someone else who would love the job that you're leaving out of boredom. This is true of Palin, and all of us as well.
2. Ideas matter, not your resume
We don’t need to elect someone based on their resume because the world changes too fast for experience to be a huge factor. On top of that, the internet makes most information available to everyone, so putting in long hours gathering knowledge is not as valuable anymore. Authority isn't what it used to be — it's based on what idea you have right now, not what you've done in the past.
We should judge people for their ideas, not their experience. I think we know this intuitively, especially young people: At my company, Brazen Careerist, we talk all the time about how your ideas are your resume – and you should aim to be known for your online conversation rather than for your resume.
If you put a resume up on online, the older people look better than the younger people. But the resume gives a false sense that older means wiser. Palin knows this, so she’s not afraid to break resume rules – like leaving a job in the middle, and aiming for a job largely outside of her experience.
3. Careers are built on teams and networks
Today Palin announced that she’s building a right-of-center coalition. This should not surprise anyone who uses social media to manage their career, because the career of the new millennium is about connections. A resume of experience is only valuable if the experience creates a network of people who genuinely care about you. Building your personal brand only matters if your brand stands for helping people create value in their lives. And online connections are only good if you are able to translate that to an offline life.
Palin knows all this instinctively. She is ditching the governor’s job, which, by nature, is about helping people in Alaska, and she is making herself available to help a wider range of people. So smart. She is campaigning across to help people she respects.
And she’s building a team, which makes sense because the best way to sidestep the need for experience is with teams. Entrepreneurs overcome their lack of skills by taking on partners. Middle managers overcome their lack of authority in the hierarchy by building internal coalitions. Palin is doing what we should all do: form teams in order to fast-track our lives beyond our limited experience.
4. No one controls your career except you
She could do what she’s supposed to – finish up her job, focus on state-level politics, and talk to the press about ethics problems. But that’s not what she wants to do. She isn’t complaining that other people are thwarting her. She’s not letting them.
So many people complain about being controlled by sexual harassment, unfair treatment, bad bosses, etc. But we each have power to control our own career. We can go where we can do what we want, how we want. We have to take risks to do that, though. We have to believe in ourselves and our own vision for what’s best.
Palin does this. She does not make it look easy. She makes it look smart, though. And that might be just what we need to inspire the same bravery in our own careers.
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