I KNOW IT'S UNUSUAL TO EMPLOY AN ALIEN WORKER , BUT I ASSURE YOU I'M A GOOD WORKER , I WORKED UNDER PRESSURE , I'M ABLE TO MANAGE ALL PROBLEMS WHO MAY APPEAR , WILLING TO TRAVEL OR WORK FOR MORE THAN 8 HOURS DAILY. I DON'T HAVE ANY INTERDICTIONS TO WORK IN USA OR OTHER COUNTRIES . A WORK PERMIT FOR USA WILL BE OBTAIN IN MY COUNTRY IN 1 WEEK. I HAVE A CLEAN DRIVE LICENSE . PLEASE SEE MY EMBED RESUME AND PLEASE SAY YOUR OPINIONS.
-Increase my international exposure within a multinational environment where my knowledge, skills and experience will bring essential contribution.
EXPERIENCE:
SUMMA ROMANIA (SUMMA Belgium(SummaGraphics cutter-plotter manufacturer)representative in Romania), www.summa.be March 2003-present day SUMMA ROMANIA Operational Manager in Bucharest -Manage all operation(sales, service) of SUMMA in Bucharest
ELTRIX S.R.L. Bucharest (www.eltrix.ro) Aug.1998-March 2003 Design Department Supervisor -Full accountability for managing a cost center with USD 0.5M revenue -Coordinate a team with 9 employees Nov.1997-Aug.1998 Graphic Supervisor -Make photos, editing and printing images -Design, manufacturing and installation of awnings -Creation and maintain web sites -Creation and realization of advertising design and graphic for indoor and outdoor -Work on state-of-the-art cutter plotters(Summa, Roland), PACER router -Scanning, image editing, layout, pre-press -Full color inkjet and digital printing for sizes up to 16x4 meters (Signtech USA technology); Nur Salsa -Modeling new logos, advertising signs, corporate signs, car design -Maintenance and upgrade for IT and network -Works for: Coca-Cola, McDonald`s, Ford, Agip, Shell, British American Tobacco, Efes Pilsener, Phillip Morris, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco, LG, Lukoil, Petrom, Connex, ING Barrings, ABN-AMRO Bank, Societe Generale, Group Renault, Orange, Mazda etc.
Press Holding Nord-Est, Botosani, Romania, Jan.1997-Nov.1997 DTP supervisor -Full flow of editing operations for "Monitorul de Botosani" (www.monitorul.ro), an 8 pages daily newspaper accomplished in 6 hours time -Proposed and implemented a new format and layout -Full flow of editing diversified works: books, folders, packaging boxes, brochures
GEEA printing press, Botosani, Romania, Jul.1996-Jan.1997 DTP operator -Full flow of editing diversified works: books, folders, packaging boxes, brochures -Pre-press operations -Full flow of editing operations for "Gazeta de Botosani" an 8 pages daily newspaper accomplished in 8 hours time
EDUCATION
-„Spiru Haret” University – Mathematics and Computers Technologies Faculty: 2002 – present day (second year student) -Highschool + Electric works Specialization 1989 - 1993 -Course of DTP (Labour Ministry of Romania) Oct.1993 - Apr.1994 -Course "Advertising Design and Graphic" (EUROPEAN PHARE Program) May1994 - Oct.1994
-Macintosh: Adobe PhotoShop, Adobe Illustrator, QuarkXPress, Freehand, Mac OS7, 8
PERSONAL:
-Fluency in English, good in Italian, French -Extensive travel in Europe: Germany, Poland, Turkey, Bulgaria, and Ukraine
References: - Florin Hogea(Eltrix General Manager)-tel.: +40 21 2326784 - Valentin Takacs(Summa Romania General Manager)-tel.:+40 256 194730
Posted by Dave Draper (Member # 102) on :
Catalin,
Looks like you have a strong background in EVERYTHING! I'm supicious anyone could really know ALL those programs and be expert in running ALL that equipment.
So I think Chuck Peterson's sign worker hiring test might be wise to take. (See post on the bullboard: Job Hunters: How do You Deal with them?
You didn't mention if you could carry a 2x4 through the shop without knocking stuff over and really that is one of the bigger qualifications.
Plentiful Jobs in the USA generally need you to learn to say" Would you like FRIES with your order?"
Be realistic, most of us are starving now, and many Americans with your qulifications are out of work. Superman is one that comes to mind! Posted by Rick Chavez (Member # 2146) on :
I don't know what Dave is talking about, If a person works at a printing shop and a sign shop, you can absorb a lot of skills, you just listed everything. Maybe tone down the resume to your specific title and list your skills seperatly, that way you don't repeat them and your resume does not look so busy.
First off you will have a hard time because you are not here in the US.
Secondly, in a lot of places, work is hard to find.
Third, in some areas of the country, the US is not the most welcoming country.
I think the only way you will get a job here is by some refferal or getting over here and knocking on some doors, that way you can present yourself personally, employees who are willing to take a chance on a employee in your position probably want to see that you took the effort to travel here. Just a thought.
I have seen you on other boards, have you had any response at all?
Rick
edited post for bad spelling
[ September 06, 2003, 10:54 AM: Message edited by: Rick Chavez ]
Posted by Robert Beverly (Member # 1907) on :
Dave
I intentionally stayed away from the post that was directed to new hires because I realize that most letterheads are one man shops and wish to remain so. I think it's great if one decides to do that.
But I don't know what I would do without the help, and I personally would hire Catilin in a second if he is more qualified than folks I have dealt with in the past.
You guys ask if he can carry a board? I ask if he can follow directions and pay attention to a logical direction. I have found better success hiring from outside sign making than inside and we do some pretty wild stuff here and it's geting more wild by the day.
Your harsh reality statements are unnecessary...because your reality's and others may be totally different.
and yes...I sent him an email of interest
Posted by Joey Madden (Member # 1192) on :
I had the opportunity to type with Catalin the other night on Chat. The conversation was polite and ernest and it seemed to be of value all the way around. It seems that Catlalin has a wealth of knowledge and experience, but the standing income has a rate of approximently $1.50 per hour in Romania. It was me I believe who invited him to this BB figuring with all the Christianity this board offers with exchange students and all the stuff I read from your posts, that someone here may be able to help Catalin as well as themselves through his knowledge. The posts here speak of helping soon to be Letterheads through intense flamings instead of thougholy reading their posts with intense understanding.
I've worked in other countries just from a letter written by a business guaranteeing me, my job. There are those here on the BB who can afford the same offering to Calalin, as I have gotten in the past.
Speak up Posted by old paint (Member # 549) on :
catalin read this http://money.cnn.com/2003/09/05/news/economy/jobs/index.htm the u.s.a. is in one of its worst jobless times since the 1930's!!! 500,000 jobless.....and these are only the people who filed for unemployment. these figures dont count the people whos unemployment has run out and they still arent working or didnt have unemployment benifits.
Posted by Steve Shortreed (Member # 436) on :
I don't but into all this talk of gloom and doom. The facts don't count! If someone is willing to work hard and smart, Canada and the USA are still some of the very best places to make your dream a reality.
Truth is, if you think you can, or think you can't, you are right!
Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
Exactly right, Steve.
----
That said, things are not nearly as bad as Joe and his link says they are. All one has to do is go back and look at the unemployment rates the first three years of the previous administration to see what I mean.
Also, the average unemployment rate for the last 25 years is 6.264%.
So Catalin, don't let them scare ya and come on over.
BTW, for those who don't keep up, the unemployment averages in Europe are in the double digits.
Posted by Bob Stephens (Member # 858) on :
I would be more inclined to hire this fellow than an American. I bet you a dollar to a donut he would not be chronically fifteen minutes late all the time and think it was an entitlement.
Americans suck as far as I'm concerned. I have yet to have one employee who really appreciated that he had a job.
I have tried really hard to stay out of the past few topics because I disagree with the majority here. What the hell ever happened to work ethic and responsibility? I bust my ass to be in business and my customers don't cut me any slack. Why should I expect less than what I'm paying for from an employee?
Try pulling the crap most people in this country pull in any other country in the world. Americans are obese spoiled and lazy and think all they have to do is show up to collect a check. Bull I say. This country is not today what it was founded on.
Flame away because I dont care. I'm going to make damn sure I dont get caught with my pants down while everyone else in this country whines about poor pity me.
You wanna live here then pull your weight like you should be doing.
Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
Bob,
I agree 100%.
Posted by Monte Jumper (Member # 1106) on :
Where is the attitude that Letterheads are (supposed to be) famous for?
I've never seen such negative attitudes...please let me apologize for the people I have no control over.
Are you looking for a "sponsor" to make it to this country? Or do you have the means to get here on your own?
It would be far better to have a dialouge with you... maybe if we answer one or two of your questions at a time we can get to know you better.
We are a very small shop and require no additonal help ...however if you will take the time to introduce yourself and spend some time with us here...I'd be willing to bet more than a few people would consider a visit from you... when you make it to the U.S.
So how about a little get aquainted period...
Here's some info for you...My Wife (Pat) and I have a small shop in Norman Oklahoma...I'm 58 years old and Pat is a little less...we have had many Letterheads stop and visit and some have stayed in our home...we specialize in hard work and signs of all kinds from hand lettering to computer graphics and fabricated metal signs.
We are in the mid southern United State of Oklahoma.
Incidently as a matter of coincidense our town is the home of the Bart Conner, Nadia Comaniche (sp?)fitness center( they live here).
Pat and I try yo atend every Letterhead meet we can (within a 500 mile area) and feel as though we are pretty active in the Letterhead movement.
We hope you will take the time to enlighten us on who you are and what your aspirations are...Hopefully your greeting here has not put you off.
If you make it here please feel free to look us up just as any other Letterhead would or could.
Ok it's your turn...fill us in...on a personal level.
Welcome to Letterville. Posted by Rick Chavez (Member # 2146) on :
Bob, your statement are appreciated, and I agree as well, as a kid, I never saw my father, the guy worked like a dog, he was never late, did the work of 2 men, and in his 70s still works, as a kid, I never saw the point, at 18 or 19 what teenager does? I vowed I would never do that and yet what am I doing now, it's up to us as parent to get our lazy teens out there or they will suffer for thier laziness. I learned that I have to work like a dog to make ends meet, and I have to teach 4 kids that I care for them, and I have to work hard. But I have to tell you I needed my father, he is a great man, he did what he did, it taught me to be what I am today, but it also taught me to be a little considerate to others situation and allow them some slack. With my drive I am gone 15 hours a day, and work some weekends and work on the house, plus have a 11, 9,8, and 4 year old, not bad for a chronically late 19 year old.
By the way I forgot to welcome Catalin, welcome to Letterhead, I hope we can all share some good experiences.
Rick
Posted by Jackie B (Member # 186) on :
Catalin - don't be discouraged. This board can be a very valuable tool. Make some friends here. Getting a job won't be easy unless you know people. There are no jobs out there for me, as I have a bad back to contend with. I don't do signs anymore. But, simply by knowing people, I was hired by a local firm just a few weeks ago to manage their office from my home. I wasn't even looking for a job. A friend mentioned difficulties a contractor was having. We talked. She talked to him. He talked to me & hired me on the spot. AND - I too, am overqualified. I saved this guy $6,000 the first week I looked at his books. He was using the wrong Workman's Comp codes. So, even the overqualified can do well. Hang in there, and make some new friends. You just never know what will happen! Bomba-Dear
Posted by Curtis hammond (Member # 2170) on :
Dave, you obviously dont know about the computer expertise of the eastern bloc. They are known in the computer world as among the very best. If he said he knows corel draw, and a slew of other soft i would beleive him fom my experience. If fact some are embarrased NOT to know software. These people don't have anything to do but study, study study, .. Just for the record. they do not have the money to BUY software, so they made their own, Some of the worlds best software reverse engineers are from there. and they all became well known while still in high school.
Some of the world's best mathmeticians live there too. It was two hungarians that mathmatically proved the theory of Black Jack (card game) instability. Later proven to be true in actual practice.
Posted by old paint (Member # 549) on :
i just posted whats in the news....if things are all that rosy glenn.....then you must be reading stats from some other country....take it up with the people who print what i posted.....iam a dummy only know what i read.....hehehehhe
Posted by PKing (Member # 337) on :
Welcome to letterville where the opinions are as varied as the people here. Opportunities are abound in America no matter what the news may say. When the economy is GOOD...I do (For Rent)signs. When the economy is BAD...I do (For Sale)signs. Guess it depends on whos economy we are talking about! For instance,come to America,buy my established business in a high growth area,with lots of visability.A 3 Bedroom house,2 extra sets of income on 2.5 acres of land where additional rental units can become yet a THIRD source of extra income. All the while producing signs from this location and past customers. I will introduce you to the local sign people and suppliers in this town,all whom are friendly. NOW is your chance to spread your wings,grow with the city,and make money! This opportunity goes out to any and all with the time,talent,and $300,000
PUT UP or SHUT UP!
Posted by Ray Rheaume (Member # 3794) on :
In my other persona as a bouncer at a restaurant/bar, I have had the pleasure of working with exchange students from Romania, along with several other Eastern Europen countries. They are some of the hardest workers I have ever known. The kids who wait tables earn enough in one summer to feed thier entire family for a year when the get home and pay for thier tuition.
Caitalin, don't be discouraged. The United States economic situation aside, someone with your qualifications would be an asset. Keep trying and with a little luck, you'll be over here doing signs and graphic art in no time.
Rapid
Posted by TransLab (Member # 470) on :
Catalin looks like he could fit perfectly into my shop. We do both signmaking & printing, and I've be tinkering with the idea of starting a local newspaper. Sounds like he has a very nice mix of skills and experiences to me.
edit: Pat ... that's a strange post ... starts with 'Welcome' and ends with 'Put up or Shut up' ... Which do you mean?
[ September 07, 2003, 08:24 AM: Message edited by: TransLab ]
Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
Joe,
I never said it was rosy.
The fact is that the employment situation is not as bad as your article made it out to be. It is also not the worst employment situation since 1930 which had 25% unemployment. MSNBC got their information from a Washington Post article which was then reprinted in the New York Times. Unfortunately, it doesn't tell the whole story.
The fact is that we are following the historical trend of the economic cycle of ups and downs. I really wish schools would put more emphasis on economic education than they do. If they did, people would recognize the MSNBC article for what it is.
Rather than read someone's interpretation of the situation, they would do better to simply go to the DOL website and read the actual report.
If they did, they would realize that media headlines such as "93,000 Get the Ax" in Saturday's New York Daily News, "Job Losses Mount for a 22nd Month" on the New York Times front page and "Goodbye Jobs" on Newsday's front page are nothing more than attempts at journalistic senationalism at the expense of the truth. If everyone had read the actual report, they and you would have known the economy picked up 150,000 new jobs, not lost them.
Unemployment is a "lagging indicator". It usually doesn't improve until businesses begin to report a profit. An indication of profit is the Stock Market which is only 200 points below when the previous administration left office. Yes, the recovery is slow and uneven. That isn't to be unexpected if you look at it from the historical perspective.
Right now, manufacturing is dragging behind. It has little to do with what is going on in the US and more to do with what is going on in Europe. The economic situation there is much worse there than it is here. Just look at Germany, France and England. Its not pretty. If they can get things turned around, the US economy will improve much faster and more evenly.
But, right now, if Catalin wants to come to the US looking for a job, The next 6 months or so are probably going to be the best time to do it.
I wish the best for Catalin and I hope he'll ignor the naysayers and doomsayers.
Posted by jimmy chatham (Member # 525) on :
the reason unemployment is high no one wants to work.
Posted by John Deaton III (Member # 925) on :
Hey Dave Draper, go back to bed and get some more sleep. That reply was uncalled for.
Posted by dispatch (Member # 1053) on :
Being in the middle of hiring several workers for another, unrelated , business, I am gettting all sorts of resumes & applications sent to me, and have learned that putting together a great resume, is a skill in itself, the effort and time taken to do a quality job on your own resume could indicate ones high degree of attention to your job and the high level of desire to make this move work.
Unfortunately, without meeting you in person to try Dave Drapers 2x4 test (I like a 4x8 sheet of 3mm Coroplast myself)I would never even consider more than an invitation to drop in and say hello.
That said, there are many businesses out there looking for reliable hard-working help, in many fields, around here, problem is that it seems everyone worth hiring already has a job.
Posted by old paint (Member # 549) on :
glenn..you will defend this administration....no matter who or what is said....so thats where i put your opinion....defend away and wear your rose colored glasses....tell all this to the 500,000 without jobs.....but some of us see what is really going on...
Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
Joe,
I said nothing in defense of the current administration. Facts are facts, nevertheless, and I've shown them to you. If you wish to ignor and misconstrue them to fit your political views, that is your perogative.
People who want to work, can find it. Those who don't, won't. There is absolutely no excuse for 500k people to draw 27 weeks of unemployment benefits and not find a job. I have absolutely no sympathy for such parasites.
Posted by Amy Brown (Member # 1963) on :
I hate politics and I'm not going there. I don't care about the administration in office now or before. They are all idiots.
My husbands company is closing it's doors and sending all of their work to Brazil. He and most of the people we know lost their jobs in March. He worked for the same company for 16 years. He has been looking for jobs and been on interviews for over a year.
Yea, there are jobs out there for minimum wage telemarketers or fast food and grocery jobs. You can't really expect to have a good quality of life for that amount of money. Granted if we get to a real critical point one or both of us will go and get that $6/hour job to support our child and help with bills.
To take a $6/hour job you would be working to pay for childcare and barely have grocery money. May as well stay home with the kids!!
Oh and my husband is far from a parasite. When they got layed off the company had the Unemployment office come in and tell them not to take jobs that weren't in the same ballfield as they were currently in regarding wages and benefits. We paid for unemployment and deserve it. Especially after 16 years. Get a grip Glenn.
Okay, I'll go back to my cave now.
Edit: Catalin, sorry to invade your post like everyone else. This is not my normal routine. I just know first hand that it's tougher than some are making out to be! Good luck to you.
[ September 07, 2003, 05:59 PM: Message edited by: Amy Brown ]
Posted by John Deaton III (Member # 925) on :
Bullsh** Glenn. My wife has worked the last 16 years for the same company, they decided to close the store and move it to another state. She is currently drawing unemployment and will continue to do so, even if for 27 weeks until a job of the same pay, etc. comes along. Not everyone that draws unemployment is a parasite. I think my wife deserves it and so do alot of other people. We've never taken any kind of help from state programs since we've been married and there were times we should have. As far as the unemployment, she is due it for 16 years of faithful service to her company.
Posted by Joey Madden (Member # 1192) on :
I've been out of work, but never unemployed, I've been rich, Ive been poor. I can tell ya, its alot easier being rich. At least the bills get paid Posted by Denis Tardif (Member # 3237) on :
so some of you mean the american dream is just for american?
Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
quote: ...even if for 27 weeks until a job of the same pay, etc. comes along.
Thats the point, John. Jobs are there. However, people will draw unemployment benefits for 27 weeks looking for something that pays exactly the same.
I've been layed off before. I know what its like. My wife's second job of 10 years is being moved to another state in the next few weeks.
The current unemployment rate in my town is better than 10% and a textile mill just filed bankruptcy laying off more than 200 workers. I've had six of them to apply here for a job a few weeks ago.
Each one of them moaned and groaned about how bad the job market is and how they didn't know how they were going to meet their bills and feed their kids. I offered two of them a job.
Neither one of them had any experience in this field, but I was willing to train them. Their previous job was paying them $10.00 an hour plus health benefits. I offered them $8 to start with a 60 day review. At the end of which, if they passed the probationary period, they would receive a raise and full-benefits at the end of 6 months.
They turned it down.
Everyone of them was expecting to get a job with the same pay and benefits they had when they lost their previous job.
One of them made the comment that they would rather draw all 27 weeks of unemployement (which in North Carolina is 60% of their former regular pay) and then go look for a job. Remember, they were worried about paying their bills and feeding their kids. That to me is a parasite.
Those who want to work will find it. And those who wait will likely find less opportunity after their benefits dry up.
Meanwhile, I have work starting to pour in and no one to do it but myself and a single mother of two who easily found a second job for the weekends for extra spending money.
I've had to resort to using temp services to get the help I need.
As I see it, too many have this perception that that the job they have will last forever, allowing them to someday retire and live happily ever after. People should learn that it is more the exception than the rule and need to plan for the possibility of losing their job.
I know that if I lost my job today, I can get a job tomorrow no matter how bad the economy. I've done it before. I can do it again. I also know that it won't provide the same pay, but that is only a temporary matter. It is not up to my new employers or the Government to ensure the standard of living to which I had come accustomed to. It is up to me.
Posted by old paint (Member # 549) on :
glenn some of these 500,000 PARISITES might someday be one of your customers.....hope your as congenial to them as you are to us.....well ill go read PRAVDA to get an unbiased view of our govt in action.
[ September 07, 2003, 06:24 PM: Message edited by: old paint ]
Posted by Dave Draper (Member # 102) on :
Which part was uncalled for, I'll apoligize for the offensive part.
1. suspicious about qualifications
2. take Chuck Peterson's test ( 2x4 thingy)
3. Americans out of work with same qualifications
4. easy to get jobs are in the fast food markets
5. all the above
I really didn't mean to offend...but at the same time life in the USA aint what it used to be.
What I don't understand is how a company in his country had all those jobs and all that equipment and he got to run it but now he's out of work. Big Corporations are sending work to countries like his...so why come to America? The jobs are not here anymore!
My Brother works at Maytag in Galsburg, Illinois, and the factory is closing so they can move to Mexico or somewhere. Because he keeps the machinery maintained, he will be one of the last to lose his job.
America, America, God shed no jobs on thee, and crowned our heads with brotherhood and sent jobs overseas. ....loose quote from something I picked up off the radio the other day!
Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
Denis,
The "American Dream" (so to speak) is available to everyone. I just refuse to let Presidents, government programs and corporations to determine what I can accomplish. I also refuse to blame them for my failures.
Anyone who wants to come here legally should have the same opportunities and risks the rest of us have.
Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
quote: glenn some of these 500,000 PARISITES might someday be one of your customers.....
Somehow, I doubt it.
Posted by old paint (Member # 549) on :
and that just proves your optimistic outlook.....
Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
Dave,
Fawn Industries, a local plastics company, recently moved their plant to Mexico. They fabricate the plastic buttons used in Ford and GMC cars.
I spoke to one of the VPs last year about it. His reason was due to all of the regulations heaped on them by the EPA and OSHA. They spent so much time and money meeting the requirements and paying lawyers that they couldn't stay profitable. The profit margins had dropped down to less than 1%. Many of their European competitors were being subsidized by their respective countries causing artificially low prices. They had no choice but to move if they were going to stay alive.
Nearly 500 jobs were lost.
Well, inspite of the economy last year, the majority of them found new jobs, many of them with better pay.
According to my wife (who's father is a Maytag distributor), Maytag is facing the same problems. Maytag had been outsourcing the material from overseas because the cost of steel here is so high. The steel tariffs imposed by the Bush administration at the demand of the Steel Unions raised the cost of manufacturing to the point where they couldn't compete. They are moving to Mexico so as to avoid the tariffs and excessive regulations in order to remain competitive.
Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
OP,
Nope. Just a reflection of my experiance with human nature.
Successful people don't rely on government to get them where they want to go (except politicians).
Posted by Catalin Dretcanu (Member # 4136) on :
for Dave Draper:
What I don't understand is how a company in his country had all those jobs and all that equipment and he got to run it but now he's out of work.DO YOU SEE COMPANY WEBSITE? I DON'T THINK SO. PLEASE, YOU ARE FREE TO ASK. Big Corporations are sending work to countries like his...so why come to America? BECAUSE THEY PAID ME WITH 350USD/MONTH. I WAS Design Department Supervisor FOR THESE MONEY. The jobs are not here anymore!
My Brother works at Maytag in Galsburg, Illinois, and the factory is closing so they can move to Mexico or somewhere.WHY? ISN'T HE GOOD ENOUGH TO FIND A JOB IN OTHER COMPANY? Because he keeps the machinery maintained, he will be one of the last to lose his job.IN AMERICA, MAYBE, BUT NOT IN MY COUNTRY. AND WHERE DO YOU READ THAT I LOOSE MY JOB? I DIDN'T SAID THAT.
Posted by PKing (Member # 337) on :
Mike(translab) The very LAST sentance in my post was........ "this opportunity is open to all with the time,talent,and money" Written as an AFTER THOUGHT to the doomsdayers.
Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
Dave,
For an example of what is happening to these companies and why the economic recovery is uneven, check out this article....
As to your brother's situation, I would look at it as an opportunity rather than a disaster. I don't see why he couldn't start his own repair business. I bet he would end up making more money as many distributors would rather do repairs and warranty work locally. Places like Lowes and Sears could become a goldmine for him.
[ September 07, 2003, 08:00 PM: Message edited by: Glenn Taylor ]
Posted by Stephen Bolin (Member # 2234) on :
Catalin,
I recently hired 2 people in my shop. I was tired of being swamped with just me and one employee. (Glenn--find someone soon--burn out is not pleasant!)
If these new hires don't work out, I would be glad to talk with you more about how you would fit in my business.
My unemployment "insurance" is now at 8%. For all of you that work solo, don't come down so hard on Glenn---if you've never had to pay 'dearly' for that ex-employee who ran the full 27 weeks of unemployment without looking for a job.
Posted by Rick Beisiegel (Member # 3723) on :
I may be stepping out onto the ice here, but Glenn has a good point. However, we cannot predict what will happen tomorrow. I have a friend dying of cancer....tell her how anybody can acheive the American Dream.
Hard workers are a rarity. I sometimes make less tham my employees. I don't begrudge, I just know that's part of the joy of "self employment" Self employment is the only place you can experience total disappointment and total elation in the same five minute period
Politics has nothing to do with it. The economy will always fluxuate regardless of who is riding in Air Force One. If we are looking for them to solve our woes, we have a long wait. It's not their job. We have to be responsible for our own income, pay our taxes, and pass on the trade to the next generation.
We happen to be busy right now, but we will be there to ride the tide of uncertainty
Posted by old paint (Member # 549) on :
glenn..you only get from people what you give to people....so i see your expertice in human nature....
Posted by Joey Madden (Member # 1192) on :
The only thing wrong with voting is that a politician always wins. Joe, if you are looking for the democrats to show us a better way maybe its time to go on welfare like so many others who think like that.
I never looked for anyone to help me or my business, no less some political idiot who doesn't drive his own car, buy gasoline, shop at local stores, or doesn't have a clue to what real people want or do. Joe, when are ya gonna get off it and get back to basics? Don't turn this post into some personal political debate.
This fella is looking for a gig in the U.S.A. or Canada, let him have his post back!
Posted by Monte Jumper (Member # 1106) on :
Look back at this post folks...have you noticed something?
Catlin never posted again after his frst attempt to create a dialogue.
I don't know about you but it tells me Catlin is a more than a little disapointed right now.
The opportunity to meet and great someone here has been blown.
If I were this person I'd look elswhere for employment...or perhaps that was eveyones intention.
I hope everyone gets over whining and crying about living in America and finds something to enjoy about it...like helping people that have something to add to our society!
Sorry Catlin...hope you come anyway...look us up if you do!
Posted by Kissymatina (Member # 2028) on :
There are a lot of people out there with extensive resumes. Just as there are people out there who would be hard pressed to make their resume fill 1 page without using 25 pt text.
I've chatted with Catalin a few times, find him to be a sincere person and hope that I managed to offer some insight during our chats.
How about instead of calling someone you don't know a liar, you post something useful....or not post at all?
Posted by Steve Shortreed (Member # 436) on :
I had to delete a post here last night. The poster was a friend, and my action resulted in a heated discussion in chat. I'm certain we came away as friends agreeing to disagree on this one.
Let's face it! We are never all going to agree on something. Dave Draper's opinions really touched a few nerves, but anyone who believes the talking heads that pose as news people on TV will hear the same stuff. To many, the sky will always be falling. That's their opinion and it's great we live somewhere where they can express it.
We have a rule here in Letterville that outlaws personal attacks. You can disagree strongly with someone's views, but refrain from name calling, threats, and related behavior.
From time to time, we take our own share of bashing over the way we run Letterville and administer this Forum. Sometimes it comes from good people we consider friends, but we have to do what we have to do as fairly as we can. I know I make mistakes from time to time, but I have to do what I feel is right.
I don't know why, but I often find myself bumping heads with people these days. Everyone seems to be full of rage and hate towards somebody or something. They love to form together into little mobs to ridicule the personalities and ideas of others. I know I have done it at certain points in my life, but I also know what it is like to be on the recieving end.
If you find I have removed your post, and you feel I have wronged you, please pickup the phone and call me or take the email route. It's nothing personal, but at the end of the day, it is Steve and Barb Shortreed who will suceed or fail as a result of our decisions.
Posted by DONALD THOMPSON (Member # 3726) on :
Catalin, When are you coming? How long are you planning on staying? Romanian people are great and most are extremely hard workers. I have been to Romania twice on mission trips and will be returning again in Feb. 2004. I could really use some good help.
Posted by John Deaton III (Member # 925) on :
The opportunities in this area are a lot less than in other areas. My wife was making eleven dollars an hour at her job, and the only jobs available right now are entry level at 6 dollars an hour. Shes looking,but until she finds one that comes a little closer to her experience and expertise, unemployment it is. If that bothers anyone, tough turds.
Posted by Amy Brown (Member # 1963) on :
John Deaton,
Same holds true for my husband. As I stated in my earlier post, it's not from lack of trying or looking. Even on lower paying jobs he is falling into the overqualified category. He went to three interviews for a job that was almost half what he was making and they said they were afraid he would leave if they hired him.
The unemployment people came to their place of business before they closed and told them, "DO NOT TAKE A JOB THAT IS NOT IN THE SAME MONEY AND BENEFITS AREA YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN."
So anyone who thinks he's a parasite loser, "you know what you can kiss!"
Catalin, again I apologize for your post getting screwed up. My brother in law is from Romania and a great person as I am sure you are.
Posted by Cam Bortz (Member # 55) on :
Well, well, well. Isn't this special.
A Rumanian with extensive experience in computer graphics goes public looking for a job and a better life, and this is the kind of response he gets. First Diaper starts questioning his qualifications (then again, I question Dave's all the time, but he writes for a major sign magazine so he must be really good). Then OP comes in with his usually bellyaching, which consists entirely of "there's a Republican president so things are just terrible!", followed by Glenn - dammit, boy, you just can't resist rising to the bait, can you? and the usual chorus of "you don't understand" and "you're full of sh*t".
I'm about the only one here who's been to Eastern Europe, other than Don Thompson, and I've seen some of the economic conditions caused by the former Communist regimes. These countries are full of very bright, highly educated people whose work ethic, motivation and ability to cope and problem-solve would shame most of you. They are living in societies where the economies are still hamstrung by "reforms" that have left economic and political power in the hands of the same useless hacks who ran things under Communism. American immigration policies restrict visas for these countries, which is one reason they are so gung-ho to join the European Union, and have the freedom to vote with their feet in countries that offer real opportunities.
For those of you who wrote positive, thoughtful, encouraging responses, bravo! The rest of you with your usual carping and finger pointing and trying to score debating points off each other, make me sick.
Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
Well, I'm sorry if I'm one of those who made you sick, Cam. I hope you won't take offense for what I'm going to say.
If you are refering to me, debate points is not what I'm after.
I'm just sick and tired of the doomsayers griping and complaining about this country and whining about the goverment not doing enough for them with this "you owe me" attitude.
The last thing we need to be doing is trying to chase someone like Catalin away with a bunch BS from those who don't know what they are talking about. Someone needs to speak up when it happens. If that twists a few panties, fine by me. I will never appologize for speaking the truth.
We have it so much better over here than many of those in Europe and we're too damn spoiled to see it.
(Ok, everyone can rip me now. I've said my piece) Posted by Adrian Niño Anaya (Member # 3537) on :
Needless to say: We People, depend on people. We can be employees, employers, customers, service providers (no matter what)… if we don’t behave civil and sensitive towards counterparts we’ll be burning bridges. The fact is that employee-employer (or potential employee/employer) is a two-way street.
Thanks,
Posted by dispatch (Member # 1053) on :
A lot being said here, shows the difference between large corporations and the small (often home based) operations that frequent this site. The large corportation has the resources to fit the propspective new employee to it's own needs,so specific qualifications are often less important than the applicants ability to learn & grow with the company, as opposed to the small shop that needs someone to take over one or two specific sections, say computer maintenance & sign post installs. For the big company, a well written resume, good responses in an interview, etc may win a job offer irregardless of actual qualifications a 2 person shop that needs someone to sweep the floor & prep panels will not have as much leeway, and if offered to the overqualified applicant will just have him/her leaving a few months later, with both disappointed.
Posted by old paint (Member # 549) on :
RIGHT...the ones to whom this poor economy doesnt seem to effect....all things are great for you....to those of us who ARE EFFECTED by this economy its our own faults!!! iam glad the few are doing so well. and the rest of us are victims of our own stupidity!!!! and since i dont know what iam talking about ill leave it with a quote from a great american...I ONLY KNOW WHAT I READ IN THE NEWSPAPERS.......
Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
quote: I ONLY KNOW WHAT I READ IN THE NEWSPAPERS
Bingo!
Joe, I'm sorry that I came down so hard. I really am.
One of my pet peaves is when someone is told that they can't succeed because he hasn't. It is a defeatest attitude that does no one any good and frankly it offended me that Catalin was basically being told that he would be wasting his time coming here.
No matter how bad things appear, there is always someone worse off. And what we see as a roadblock, others see as an opportunity.
I just wish more Americans could see how good we really have it here in the US.
Posted by Denis Tardif (Member # 3237) on :
i`m with you cam
and for the others unemployment unfortunately happen not just in U.S.A. but here too and probably everywhere here we are 600 000 peoples and you have 3 full pages of sign shops in the phone book every years 25 new shops are opening and 25 are closing sometime is longer but somebody who want to work will always find something and crying will not changing anything
i am apologizing in advance because i know i will offending some but what you like to be a $100 000 un employee or a $50 000 worker here we forgot who we was suppose to help... catalin just because our life are so miserable and forget that we are the most luckiest peoples on this planet sorry again have a nice day
Posted by Cam Bortz (Member # 55) on :
Thanks, OP. As always, you confirmed and vindicated everything I already think of you and your opinions.
Posted by Blue Grass Neon, Inc. (Member # 4073) on :
It is unbelievable how people can honestly feel that they are intiteled to un-employeement because they worked for someone. I believe last I checked I wasn't twisting someones arm to work for me nor did I go to their home and beg them to work for me. All a worker is intiteled to is a good working enviroment, 2- 15min breaks, 1- 1/2 hour lunch and a pay check at the end of their pay period. If they deserve more let them step up to the pump and buy into the business. They won't work for less (8 instead of 10) because they are going to make a point. They will sit back and draw un-employment and milk the system. (They are owed this) Let me say America is a great place to be and work. Been doing signs for a long time now. Never had a shortage of business. It is out there. Number 1 rule *PLAN YOUR WORK and WORK YOUR PLAN* always works. Sleep in and miss out. Get up off your lazy a** early and watch your rewards.
Posted by Cam Bortz (Member # 55) on :
Now now, Mike. What about those poor souls who try so hard, but they have nothing but bad luck and no one will give them a break and the customers are too cheap and the other shops don't charge enough and the government doesn't care and it's not their fault? You might hurt their feelings.(sob!) Posted by old paint (Member # 549) on :
there you go cam...and glenn.....we are nothing but sand beneath your feet....
Posted by Si Allen (Member # 420) on :
OP.....sand?? I thought that you would at least aspire to be "kitty litter"!!
Posted by Rick Beisiegel (Member # 3723) on :
I gotta meet you guys some day!
Nice hard working guys go out of business every day. Some for economic reasons, others for family or health. Ya, the economy is weak, but none of us are starving. I guess I'd welcome anybody who wants to work to feed his family. One thing is sure, at least reverse discrimination won't happen. If his resume is for real, he really IS qualified not just because he happens to be a minority. Good luck Catlin!
Posted by Monte Jumper (Member # 1106) on :
Steve...please shoot this horse...it's dying anyway!
Posted by Mikes Mischeif (Member # 1744) on :
You may want to come to a large city. Put Washington DC on your list. We have 5 or 6 jobs for sign people listed every week. Try www.washingtonpost.com to start.
There are over 3 million people here with a local economy fueled by the Government. We never have job losses here. You can work 3 jobs if you want.
There are people here form all over the world who come here and work. I mean really work. The average houshold income here is $100,000
Yes, it's expensive to live here, but you don't have to buy the $300,000 home and the Cadilac escalade to start.
If you or anyone else who can't find a job in america will call me, I'll show you the sign shops paying $14/hr to start. I'll show you 3 limo companies paying $18/hr plus tips to make $300 a weekend. I make help wanted signs every week for these guys.
I know thats only $48 grand to start, but you can do it if you really want to.
My customers who own landscping companies pay guys with fresh green cards 30K to hold a weed whacker. They tell me "americans" feel it's beneath them. The landscapers are laughing all the way to the bank.
We have imigrant workers congregate at a dozen 7/11's to wait for building contractors to fill vacancies they have no applicants for. Some of these guys end up as construction foreman and eventually start thier own business.
I letter trucks for 3 such guys who broke thier first million last year.
So shut up about there not being any work in America and move to where the food is. If you want to stay in a small market where the only employment machine goes belly up, boo-hoo.
[ September 09, 2003, 01:23 AM: Message edited by: Mikes Mischeif ]
Posted by Doug Allan (Member # 2247) on :
AMEN MIKE!! 64 posts & nothing I really wanted to add, but I'm gonna chime in here to say, I'm glad Steve hadn't put this dead horse to bed before that last post. There are many different economies in this great country. If things are tough in one area, consider another one.
I'm sympathetic for those who have or whoose loved ones have lost work, & I realize moving the family isn't always an easy prospect. I am also understanding of accepting unemployment rather then substandard work.
I'll say to Blue Neon & others you shouldn't feel you're entitled to health care just because you pay your health insurance premiums... if you are ever too injured to run your sign shop, just get up off your lazy a** & go work for McDonalds... why should you suck off benefits from our insurance companies just because you worked to pay the premium.
Posted by Blue Grass Neon, Inc. (Member # 4073) on :
Come on Mr. Doug. Don't be another union-fied american and feel the company owes you. Sure if your hurt or mamed you are intiteled to some benifits. If you are able to work get up off your free loading a** and work. As usual Doug you take something and take it out of context. America owes me nor you nothing. We are given a the opportunity to work or hold up a sign and express we'd like to work. "For food or hand-outs". Sure the hand out is the easiest. Which line you wanna be in Doug? Thats what I thought! Don't chime in on things you don't 100% believe in. By the way "Hows the surf"?
Posted by mike meyer (Member # 542) on :
As soon as this post came up, I Emailed catalin right away and offered him a place here in Mazeppa to do my Computer work. He seems excited and I will do what I can to make him feel welcome, after all, I've "Harbored" foreign Letterheads for years!
Welcome aboard catalin!
Posted by Monte Jumper (Member # 1106) on :
Thanks Mike and Mike ...you've renewed the spirit that this board was meant to spread.
I too am glad Steve didn't "shoot this horse" but you'll have to admit that until now this post was going nowhere it was intended.
I recieved an e-mail from Catalin also...his spirit and determination has survived this post and tho I have nothing to offer him but encouragement he was both kind and humble.
I certainly hope his next post is answered with the more respect.
If he should travel while he is here he knows he is welcome at anytime.I hope he continues to communicate but I'm sure right now he's a liitle wary of the way he will be treated...a few more positive posts would go a long way help to make those communications possible.
Oh and one more thing "down with dooms day" it has no place in my life.
[ September 09, 2003, 09:13 AM: Message edited by: Monte Jumper ]
Posted by Ryan Ursta (Member # 1738) on :
Wow cool Mike! After 68 posts of junk, at least the guy got what he was looking for. Jeez! Good luck guys!
Posted by Cam Bortz (Member # 55) on :
Hey OP... The only people who get treated like doormats are people like you, who spend your life making bad decisions and let the world wipe their feet on you, and then look for pity because you're a "victim". You've made a career of it, and by god, it may be the only thing you are any good at, so don't let me or Glenn stop you. As I said once before, I don't need you, and we both know it.
Letterville has all the components of a real town, doesn't it? A Mayor, a group of hardworking businesspeople, a village idiot still in Diapers, and a chronic loser whose only contribution is making people feel sorry for him. Boo f*cking hoo, Joe.
Gee, do I think this will get deleted? Do I give a sh*t?
Posted by DONALD THOMPSON (Member # 3726) on :
Catalin also e-mailed me and I offered him a job . I told him that I didn't know if he would like this area, but he could give it a try. Whether he ends up in Mazeppa,MN or Laurens,SC first if he doesn't like it then he can try the other.
Posted by Rick Beisiegel (Member # 3723) on :
Nice post Mike. I concur too!
Posted by mike meyer (Member # 542) on :
Hey Donald, If he wants to start here, then when the weather gets rough, he can head down to you! Being from Romania I would think he can handle a Minnesota winter...but hey, If South Kakalackie is offered, I'd take it too....but I am a Cold Weather/Hockey freak so I gotsta be in my element!
We'll take care of him the RIGHT way!
(All this post needs is Guns, Religon and Politics!)
Posted by Myra Grozinger (Member # 327) on :
Geez ----- I saw there was a big post developing, but did not click on it til now because when I saw it was a job seeker I knew I had no job to offer. Then the length of the thread raised my curiosity.
What I see in the responses feels like a general sock in the gut by a whole lot of seriously grumpy people affected by the bad economy and by the deteriorated human and political climate we are living in right now. For a number of reasons they are unable to call it that, even if they chose to see it.
Fact: For 2 years now we have seen almost nothing but war stuff when we turn on the news, that grinds us down emotionally, and keeps our fear level elevated. Fact: 1.4 million more of us fell into poverty in 2002, and there is no end in sight.
We are becoming a people who, as Steve says, have underlying “rage and hate” in our interactions with each other. I see that as a clear reflection of our unease about our daily emotional national conditions.
I would not think to assign blame or reasons because I want this to be posted and want it to remain posted. This is not meant to be political. I only want to sow a seed or two of thought about WHY we have such short and unkind tempers with each other.
I hope that a job works out for Catalin. I came here from Europe in 1964, and it took the working of 3 different concurrent jobs, two of them part time, for me to get a footing. I am grateful for all opportunities I was able to take advantage of. I love being here in this - my - country. It is full of nothing but immigrants, excepting the Native Americans.
Posted by dispatch (Member # 1053) on :
quote:Originally posted by mike meyer: As soon as this post came up, I Emailed catalin right away and offered him a place here in Mazeppa to do my Computer work. He seems excited and I will do what I can to make him feel welcome, after all, I've "Harbored" foreign Letterheads for years! Welcome aboard Catalin!
Congratulations Catalin & Mike. While it is hard to give the "2x4 test" over the internet or phone, surviving 60+ posts on this subject, with a reasonable facade of cheerfulness shows that you BOTH have some common sense, and uncommon patience, which will no doubt be assets to your relationship.
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