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PA Gov Josh Shapiro Legitimizes Using Term "Sh*t"

Conversational. Authentic. Plainspeak. Touching directly on pain points. That's what's expected in communications. And that's what Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro accomplishes in the  video kicking off his re-election campaign . In it he leverages his Get Sh*t Done branding. Explicitly in the video Gov Shapiro boasts that on his watch PA "Got the sh*t done." The backdrop visuals feature what got done. Since Gov Shapiro, as The New York Times documents, is seeking to build a national profile, we can conclude that this is happening: The term "sh*t" in formal discourse has been legitimized.  From informal discourse, we sure know how effective using the term is. When we do use it, whether from a place of authority or just that of everyman/everywoman, a line has been crossed. The movement is from standard polite rhetoric to hey-I-mean-business. For example, the pest continues to deliver unsolicited advice. So, I cross the line: "What's this advice...

Search for Work - Maybe You Should Stop Looking to Do What You Used to

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Both The Wall Street Journal and BusinessInsider  present snippets of those looking for work and unable to find it. But, a core problem with their search - which should be obvious - isn't being addressed.  That's this: They are seeking employment in sectors such as marketing and public relations, where they had had great careers and high earnings, which are rapidly contracting. Driving the squeeze are AI and cost-efficiency.  Sure, hunt in familiar territory. Nothing happening? Then, instead of continuing to hunt when there are no results, see differently how to make a living. That's the meme at the Toledo Museum of Art. Where are they hiring? And how can you get in?  Age is no excuse for not reinventing yourself. In my 70s, as content-creation was collapsing, I beefed up my credentials in other lines of work. To build my new professional identity and create referrals I provided lots of "free samples." Within about seven months I was back earning a living. Another...

People Get You Jobs, Not So Much Resumes

  The typical story of a middle-aged unemployed knowledge worker finally landing work is this: They mourned the loss of their previous job.  They reached out to some kind of counseling/coaching.  They networked like crazy. The latter included sharing their leads, which weren't a fit, with other job searchers.  Now that they are employed, usually through a tip about an opening from a contact, they are reaching out to help those who remain jobless.   That's the pattern I again found described last night at a mini conference. The takeaway is: People, not so much resumes, get you working.  In some cases, yes, putting up the Open to Work banner on LinkedIn does attract those, ranging from former colleague to recruiters, who can help. In other cases, those who did find jobs, assess it was a mistake to be so open about where they were in earning a living. My advice is, as with all job search tactics, is to experiment. Post the banner and observe what happens....

BoomerVille: Back on Track

  It was only one bad day. Here we are in positive territory again: Dow Jones Industrial Average INDEXDJX: .DJI 49,194.09 +198.01  (0.40%) today

Writing: Useful Skill for Some Other Career Path, But No Longer a Career Or Even a Gig

  The common phrase on Reddit has become "I love writing." Well, good for you. And the common response, straight from the shoulder, has become: "Find something else to do for money. Anything. This is no longer a lucrative career or side hustle." That said, there is, of course, a huge need for this skill, when applied in a larger context.  The classic example is in practicing law. The associate who can turn in concise persuasive drafts which don't require extensive markups will get noticed. Likely more work will be assigned to them. Without that they probably won't develop enough billable hours and be terminated. However, being an adept writer won't in itself move the needle much in practicing law. Lots more is necessary to hold onto the job and move on up. Chair of Paul, Weiss since 2008 Brad Karp always loved writing. And, admires good writing. However, analyses of his success focus on his rainmaking, access to political leaders and strategic accompli...

BoomerVille: Is This the Venezuelan Bump?

Dow Jones Industrial Average INDEXDJX: .DJI 48,780.79 +398.40  (0.82%) today UPDATE: Dow Jones Industrial Average INDEXDJX: .DJI 49,107.86 +725.47  (1.50%) today Jan 5, 11:51 AM EST  •  Disclaimer

BoomerVille: World On Fire, But Stock Futures Up

It's not only Venezuela. Also, as Drudge Report headlines, there is speculation about US intervention in Greenland, Cuba and Columbia.  However, Dow futures are up . Right now that's at about 26 points (7:20 AM ET). Chevron leads the way. And, in general oil stocks are holding steady. Politics isn't triggering a market meltdown. Boomers can exhale after a weekend of shocks. Our money is safe, at least for now. Success is a mental game. Failure comes from being done in by the “committee” in your head. Together, we reprogram your thinking. Then we change your story. And, unleash success. Intuitive Coaching. Special expertise with transitions, becoming a solopreneur and aging. Psychic/tarot readings, upon request. Complimentary consultation with Jane Genova (Text 203-468-8579,  janegenova374@gmail.com ). Yes, test out the chemistry. Zero risk. Don’t give up before the miracle.