When Jo was laid off, she was tired of it; she wanted to be her own boss. A depressed economy often reveals more introspection by people who want to explore self-employment. My bet is there are many days, you’d like to fire your boss!
Jo was a training manager. Although she had experience in several industries, she knew her degree in Business Administration might not be valued as much as a technical degree She understood profit and loss, along with proven management skills. Jo felt she could manage training projects in any industry but with so much competition, she realized that owning her own business could be the answer.
Should she look for another training job or start her own business? She needs health benefits and there is no second income to support her family. What should she do?
Jo is passionate about books. Her dream is to own a book store when she retires, which may be more than five to ten years in the future. But she decided now is not the time, with the economy in shambles. She started contacting former colleagues. Linkedin.com became a “new friend.” She attended an online class to learn techniques for using Linkedin for job search. Much to her amazement, when she attained 300 connections, she received more calls and requests to link with people she hardly knew.
Jo went to the local bookstore to purchase a few career books and while she was there, she applied for a part time job. If she couldn’t own a bookstore at this time, she’d find out more about the industry. Although her unemployment checks were reduced, she began working 20 hours a week. Not only did she love the work, but her part time schedule allowed her to pursue a full time job. Sometimes she worked into the wee hours of the night on her search but did not neglect other important aspects of her job search, like regular exercise and volunteering.
Three months later Jo landed a full time job through a lead from one of her friends. As she approaches age 60, she may face another layoff before long. She decided to stay with the part time job. Working two jobs is exhausting at times, but the money helps. In fact, she likes the bookstore better than her “day job.” And she’s exploring locations which might work for her bookstore at a future date.
Jo is a fabulous role model for all of us. By working, using her network and creating new connections, she found her old job in a new industry. Finding a training position is not easy. But she stayed focused and talked her way into a new job by not letting age or lack of specific industry skill stand in her way. And she’s also preparing for the next step in her career with her part time job. My bet is one day she will follow her passion. And you can, too!
An excellent source of information is the Small Business Administration. If you’ve been thinking about owning a business, check the information about the money available through the SBA. Many rules and guideline exist to help you through the miles of “red tape” to find money for your dreams. It appears there is money for loans, if you do the research, write the plans and follow through on all the details.
You may want to visit my article that provides additional information about self-employment at http://www.examiner.com/x-31872-Dallas-Career-Transition-Examiner.
Whatever your passion may be, I wish you luck in the fast approaching New Year. May 2010 be your best year ever!