By Jean Hollands
Jean on the Job
When I limped into the doctor’s reception room someone jumped up and greeted me with, “Oh, hello. I know you. You are Jean Hollands. I know all about you.” She introduced me to her significant other and proceeded to explain that she reads the Town Crier, and my column first! Also scolded me for not having anything published for a while.
What a thrill that was. To be recognized, to be appreciated, and to be missed.
So I am back, with great energy, trying to share the business world from my corner of that atmosphere.
By the way, the woman was Mary Schoenback, a key player at the former Career Action Center, who is now doing Life Planning. The Career Action Center started around the same time my company did, so I am very disheartened to have it close its doors.
So what is positive about the business community these days?
1. Silicon Valley leads a trend one more time. (We are the geographic epicenter of pain.)
2. 60 percent of those who have lost jobs or stock value are reassessing their next years.
3. Age is no longer the great divider at the moment,Äîmany of us are sad and disillusioned.
4. Commuting is easier and car phones are not as popular.
5. Children are having more time with Daddies.
6. Children are having more time with Mommies.
7. There is no line in most of the retail shops.
8. Having a fancy car can look Un-American.
9. Restaurants are not as noisy.
10. Dog groomers are calling us for appointments.
11. The weather this summer is lovely.
12. It’s easier to get a housekeeper, sitter or handyperson.
13. People are growing flowers from seeds again!
Los Altos and the environments around here are fairly insulated from some of the pain, except for investment woes, but almost everyone has a son or neighbor who is unemployed.
Still, theaters keep showing, churches keep inviting and children frolic in swimming pools. Those of still in business are grateful.
Jean A. Hollands, CEO, Growth & Leadership Center, author of a new book,” Same Game Different Rules - How to Get Ahead Without Being a Bully Broad, Ice Queen or ‘Ms. Understood.’
Write to GLC, 1451 Grant Road, Mountain View, 94040.
