Who asked you anyway? Oops I did!

I saw two counselors for career guidance and research on new trends in the workforce. But oh, did they differ in their approaches! I'll say I prefer to be shown the horizon and not boxes----especially if they are check-off list boxes.

There is difference between being pushed and motivated.

One of my counselors---the "happy" counselor---gave me career options and guided me on "my own path."

The "happy" counselor was enthusiastic about presenting new ideas, opportunities, and information about my career plans. She reviewed my portfolio, and gave "spur of the moment" tips. Even when I knew of her suggestions, she was very encouraging. When I left, I came home to find a voicemail from her with new opportunities.

The other counselor---the "pushy" counselor--presented me with many new resources, but they were rigid cookie-cutter resources that applied to her "GTD list" and not my life. Again, I knew about many of her suggestions. Tried them. Many didn't work for me, but this counselor wanted me to try again for hercheck-off list's sake. And yes, she called me to see if I was doing what she told me to do!

One thing I don't like is being pushed.

Inspire me. Empower me. Motivate me. But don't push me.

I love it when people are passionate about their work, but if your work is about providing a service to others---let it be about others.

I am a human being, not your check-off to-do list!

I am a human being, not a process or a system!

And once your services become about what "you did" to get the job done, then it's time for you to re-evaluate your intentions.

I followed the suggestions of both "happy" and "pushy" counselors---even though some of their advice did not apply to my life. Eventually, I ended my relationship with the "pushy" counselor.

It's OK to ask for advice. Cast your net out wide. But know every "find" or "answer" isn't a treasure. Sometimes it's a lead or a dead end.

Temp Jobs Continue To Rise

Thanks to WINK News for confirming what Sparkly Temp Diaries posted in September about growth in the temporary job market.

"The U.S. added 34,000 temporary jobs in October, even as unemployment increased. Local agencies say it makes the most sense for many companies that are still struggling to dig out of the recession."

To read full article, click here.

Tales From A Temp; CVS Free Flu Shots

Tales From A Temp

Wow, what a week! In addition to my career tip articles, I will soon add personal stories in a series called Tales From A Temp.

I never intended to make this blog a temp gossip diaries, and my main direction is to provide a guide for employment seekers to navigate through this unique experience.

Unemployment Update

My short-term assignment bit me in the butt with my unemployment. I was approved to receive unemployment funds for my last temp assignment, but my second check was held up because the State of Texas had to verify my last assignment.

It's verified! I will receive my direct deposit very soon, but I will NOT take short term work when receiving unemployment. I will follow my state's guidelines to look for work that is at least 90% of my salary, and after eight weeks of unemployment 75% of my salary.

Note: My local unemployment office said that temporary agencies are very quick in the employment verification process--which is very true.

CVS is giving away free flue shots to the unemployed. Click here.

What Do I Do Now?

I followed my own advice and took a short-term assignment to help me get through these times.

I hadn't realized how hard temporary agencies were hit by this recession until I began to hear an echo from my recruiters: "it's slow," which caused me to reconsider my income-generating strategy.

I was completely unaware of how difficult this recession had been for many families. How did I skate around this issue while leaping from one assignment to the next?

First, I can blame it on my state. It took longer for the effects of this recession to hit Texas, and even longer for the city of Houston---the energy capital of the U.S.

Second, my choice to work solely through temporary agencies gave me less competition in the job search. But once the agencies began to lose clients, job availabilities became sparse and new recruits grew larger. Also, assignments became much more skill-specific.

Going through this experience, I know it is much better to have employment than seek outside help. I applied for unemployment, and that took nearly a month. I'd recommend that all temps have at least three months of savings ready.

We all have to get through this. Here's my tips:

1. Consider applying directly through companies and websites of non-profit organizations.
2. Join mailing lists of companies and organizations because many unposted job offers will be in newsletters. Always check the direct website.
3. Communicate to your recruiters any changes in your choice of assignments. If you choose to work part-time or in a lower paying assignments, make sure your recruiter documents this to be considered for more assignments.
4. Consider your work options. Yes, the economy is bad. But, could you be doing something wrong?

Good News Feature: Temporary Job Market Heats Up

"The number of temps let go by employees have slowed down!"

Please view here: Temporary Job Market Heats Up

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Applying For Unemployment As A Temp

I applied for unemployment, but as a temporary worker my state requires me to contact my agency for assignments, and wait three business days before filing a claim.

Notice: If you have been working temporary jobs through a temporary firm, you must contact them immediately for additional assignments and give them three(3) business days to place you in a new assignment before you submit an application for Unemployment Benefits. During those three days you are not unemployed according to the law, so if you apply for benefits, the application you submit today will be invalid. - Source - Texas Workforce Commission .

Please check with your state's unemployment agency. Temps can receive unemployment insurance depending on your work hours---particularly long-term assignments.

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Five Ways Temporary Work Can Help When You Lose Your Job

Short-term Assignment

If your looking for permanent employment, take short-term temp assignments to cover expenses until you secure full-time employment. The protocol of giving two weeks to one month notice are not as rigid in temporary world. But, make sure your recruiter understands your desire to do short-term assignments while trying to secure permanent employment.

Pay Check Turn-Around

Weekly pay allows you get back in the groove of budgeting. You'll cover bills and expenses with sooner pay checks. Please choose direct deposit or an agency-approved loadable debit card. Your pay will come in a week or less.

Agencies Want You

Agencies are being hit just as hard by the economy as other employers, and they are looking for highly experienced and skilled workers. Those who have a strong history of permanent employment will be valued for their experience and skills.

Develop Professionally

Agencies offer many online and offline skill development courses. Also, there are times when your assignment company will offer training sessions. Take advantage of all opportunities for training and development. And don't forget to re-test with your agency to receive higher paying assignments. Some agencies will allow you to test online---most have online training courses.

Get Hired

Let's return back to the reason why most people temp, to get hired. Treat your assignment as your 30-60-90 day probation. Many positions are temp-to-hire, but even if it's only long term, you'll have steady employment. Use your assignment to acquire references, skills, mentors, and strengthen your resume.