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WOMEN & WORK

Ava

POSTED: Fri, 09/25/2009 - 12:52pm

Calling all you fabulous women!

This is a great new forum section....how lovely to have a crisp blank space!
Being one to jump in, I though I'd start things off in preparation for Mireille's new book.
As an entrepreneur, I wondered if there are any more of you out there?
If not, what jobs do you hold and what do you love most about them? Ava.

jas	POSTED: Thu, 08/09/2012 - 7:50am HELP EDITOR How do we get from being taken over.....? I'm laughing my women friends, like standing on a hillside and blowing a trumpet, (though a harp would be nicer) and saying arise women...let's get this commercialism out of this wonderful women space! Love Jas

kit	POSTED: Thu, 08/09/2012 - 10:57pm Oh Jas, I could envision you blowing your trumpet...they are gone(for now, or for good I hope).I got no response from the help site:((

Marilyn

POSTED: Thu, 08/09/2012 - 2:59pm SPAM AGAIN It is very disconcerting that we have all this spam. One of the problems of not being a closed forum but we do not want to go back to the old days of having to pay for the pleasure. Perhaps the best idea is just to ignore them and they may go away when they realise that no one reads or reacts to their inane commercialism. I'm sure the webmaster is trying to sort it somehow.

JSB	POSTED: Thu, 08/09/2012 - 8:10am Hi Jasmine Write to the Webmaster.The link is here in Site Help at the bottom of this page on the right.I've written and perhaps they are beavering away at the problem,but have had no reply.Most vexing on all levels.I want this crap gone from here.Grrr.oxo

ileanaj

POSTED: Mon, 04/11/2011 - 12:16am I suppose I am now ... My last day with a "normal job" is the 27th of April because I cannot afford to pay the babysitter anymore. I had a business opportunity fall into my lap which also has led to another opportunity directly linked. I am very excited about the prospects of it all, but I have to say I am anxious because this is new territory for me. I've held a "traditional" job since high school! I was just not finding anything out there that was worth my time and talents. I've been used by so many employers ... I had to start utilizing my own resources for myself. Do you have any suggestions for me? It sounds like you may have been down this road already. ~Jacqui "O" Polnik

Ava

POSTED: Tue, 04/19/2011 - 6:19pm Firstly, congratulations! You've made the first step (which is always the hardest) - though sometimes circumstances are such that we are coerced along a route we didn't think we would ever take. However, when opportunity knocks - we should take it! I'm about to start a new venture and it's like having a new toy! Everytime I do something for myself, I know it is for my benefit; for the benefit of my family. Not for the benefit of a company where you are not respected. Of course there are some great companies out there too, employing people and praising their efforts and rewarding them accordingly ... but generally these are small businesses where people still treat their employees as people ... not payroll numbers. I've been lucky in that the companies I've worked for have generally been very good to me ... but there have been one or two who could learn a thing or two about people management. Working for yourself is hard. There is no easy way to say it, but the rewards are vast. From simply being satisfied with what you are doing, to knowing you are using your skills to advance and help yourself, to making money and emloying other people - giving them the opportunity to learn and love the job they do too. In the world of business, there are too many jobsworths out there; too much micro-management; too many jobs for the boys. It's time to break rank and be radical! I believe in treating people how I would want to be treated; with respect, honesty, trust ... you know the sort of thing. Going it alone is a worry. Once you've worried yourself to the state where you can worry no more; you start to see the sense in it. You see the hurdles, but that's exactly what they are - hurdles ... you can jump over them (or knock them over!) The most difficult aspect of working for yourself is usually getting over the fact that you have had a regular paycheck each month for however many years. This stability is hard to turn your back on (especially when there are bills to pay, people to feed) no matter how much you dislike your job or feel used by your employers. People need to reralise that jobs are no longer for life. I know of so many people (ages 35-55) who have been in their jobs for over 10 years and are now suddenly finding themselves redundant. They have been reliable, honest; have skill sets that would cost hundreds of thousands of pounds to replace (a school leaver isn't going to be able to fly a jet!), yet these people are finding that they wake up one morning and are no longer in employment. Working for yourself makes you work harder. You have to achieve more. You have to go out and find those customers. You need people to buy your skills / services / products - or whatever it is you're doing. Ultimately, you need money coming in. Your entrepreneurial skills will come into their own and you'll find strength, determination and abillities you never knew you had! My mentor is Richard Branson (not personally unfortunately!) His motto is 'screw it, let's do it!' I like that. I like that you sometimes just have to go with it, even if everyone else is saying no. Flying by the seat of your pants gives you an extra determination! I like that sometimes the biggest risks are the most rewarding ones. One thing is for sure. You can always go back to working for someone if this not for you...or if you need an extra income (though I would seriously suggest that was only part time and that you do continue along your own entrepreneurial path). You'll find that once you work for yourself - it will be very difficult to work for anyone else again! That suits me! Let us know how you get on :-) Good luck & go get 'em!

Monica Rochelle

POSTED: Wed, 02/17/2010 - 8:58pm So you are an entrepreneur? That's wonderful! What sort of business do you operate? I would love to open up my own shop, once I am older. I am still a student working in a deli. How did you start your business? I would love to hear about it, maybe it will help me figure out what to do. :)

milcres

POSTED: Thu, 01/21/2010 - 9:50pm teacher I'm a teacher. this is my 18 year. Sometimes I want to do something else, but I love to be around children. Is there any other teacher out there?

Lorraine

POSTED: Sat, 02/20/2010 - 10:16am At school too! Hi ladies, I also work in schools, as a social worker. Quite frankly, it gets tougher every year. I also have a private practice and do addiction work. It is never dull, which I love. Kids are great and keep me "cool".

JSB	POSTED: Wed, 02/24/2010 - 4:47pm Lorraine That is one tough job you have.You have my undying respect.

violette

POSTED: Fri, 01/29/2010 - 6:19pm Bonjour.....I am a substitute teacher Hi. I have been a substitute teacher (high school leval) ever since I quit the law field. I do like it, but it is not permanent work or regular money so I need to find something that is. I have worked primarily in private schools where the kids are very well behaved. Have worked in public schools too, and quite frankly could not deal with it. I hated it actually. Kids up and out of their seats not doing their work, not listening, totally not following directions, it was a nightmare! The public schools in this day and age leave much to be desired, and it was no fun. I noticed most the kids, (high school age) were on ADD meds, had severe problems, brought their IPODS to class, and really could care less about getting an education, nor did they respect authority. Some kids actually called me a bitch! I feel it's a sign of the times, when children turn against their parents and against authority. If I ever teach again, it will be in the Jr. College level, where kids are there cuz they want to be. Anyway, I did not enjoy it all that much, although I still do some subbing. The kids like me, and I developed good repore with them,but with them not being my regular students this was hard too,as I got attached to many students, then all I was, was a sub........

JSB	POSTED: Sun, 01/24/2010 - 10:22am TEACHERS You are the best.My sister and Soul Sister(Frenchy)are teachers.A really tough but essential job you do.

frenchy

POSTED: Sun, 01/24/2010 - 1:09pm Merci Soul Sister Jean I don't know if it is still the noble calling that is once was. It is true we are needed so badly but the conditions have become so bad. Oh to have been a teacher back in the day. Now that would have been an experience. I always had visions of myself as Laura Ingalls Wilder. She was my inspiration for wanting to teach. Did I ever tell you that? Funny how things come to you. I haven't had that thought in so long.

frenchy

POSTED: Sun, 01/24/2010 - 10:14am Teacher Hello Milfue. I also teach. What grade or subject do you teach? Are you public or private school? Where are you located?

milcres

POSTED: Sun, 01/24/2010 - 9:38pm teacher I live in Phoenix Arizona. I work for a public school. This year I have 3rd. and 4th. grade. A lot of work, but is ok. Thank you frenchy.

JSB	POSTED: Wed, 01/27/2010 - 12:47pm Hi Milfue My Goddaughter is teaching just outside of Tucson.So far she likes it but this year has been pushed to teach something she is not qualified for and that has soured her a bit.Jean

frenchy

POSTED: Tue, 01/26/2010 - 9:05pm Florida I live in Florida and work for the public system as well. I am certified K-12, ESOL, and Gifted Endorsed. At the moment I teach English/Reading/Writing for 6, 7, and 8 grade. I am looking to go to the private sector but my really big dream is to relocate and teach in France. That would be heaven to me.

violette

POSTED: Wed, 02/03/2010 - 10:16pm Teaching jobs in France Hi Frenchy! There is a plethera of teaching jobs in France. Go to Franglo.com. If I wasn't married with kids, I would do this too! They also have temporary assignments, to teach English to various companies, etc. Do you know this website Frenchy?\ Teaching is a real calling I believe like being a nun or Priest. I admire anyone who feels called to do it. Both my parents were teachers too, then my father later on was an administrator. Maybe in different states the school system is better than it is here in California. It's the pitts here where I live, unfortunately.

sammijean06

POSTED: Fri, 01/29/2010 - 6:00pm I would absolutely love... to be an ESOL teacher. That's my goal. My intent is to be able to teach in New York City, but that may not happen. Right after my boyfriend gets out of the military, we're going to teach English to African children for about 6 months. I'm not sure of anyone who works in New York Ctiy as a teacher that could give me a good recommendation of what to do or where exactly to teach (I'd like to live in Brooklyn - but I'm not sure how to go about doing everything). Did you get a master's degree for the ESOL? I've got a few countries I'm obsessed with that if anything happens to me, I'm packing up everything and living there to teach English... France, Sweden or Japan. My dreams are big.

frenchy

POSTED: Fri, 01/29/2010 - 7:09pm Teaching ESOL I graduated from USF in Florida and part of the graduation requirement was to have the ESOL Endorsement. I do not have a Masters in ESOL as I am currently trying to get my Masters in English. In New York the school to look for is Stuyvesant High School. A fantastic book to read, and the reason I would give my eye-teeth to work there is A Class Apart. It is a must read for any teacher.

My Inner French Girl

POSTED: Fri, 01/29/2010 - 6:19pm Bonne chance! When you're ready to take the plunge, feel free to email me. I taught English in Japan for two years, while my husband was there for 3, also as an English teacher. It truly does rock your world and changes your life vision forever. Salut, Marjorie

sammijean06

POSTED: Fri, 01/29/2010 - 8:21pm Thank you Marjorie, very sweet of you!... I think my above post seemed a bit rambling - I had forgotten in the few weeks since I've logged on last how to use a computer, my mistake. So, to continue... as I had stated before, I would love to be an ESOL teacher. I'm currently going to school for Early Childhood Education while my boyfriend is finishing his enlistment in the military (I'll be finishing mine within the next few months - finally!!). After he completes his enlistment, we're volunteering in Africa to teach English to children, in high hopes that it will give me a better resume to apply to a school in New York City and get a job. My dream has always been to live in Brooklyn, because while I love France, Sweden, Scotland, Japan, etc...New York is where I'm meant to be. My only problem is, is that New York City schools are very competative and I'm not sure I'll have the qualities one would look for in teaching. My entire goal in life is to teach English to young children who do not speak the language, in high hopes that they could one day better their life whether it be in the business, political, or education system themselves. If, however, my boyfriend decides to leave me... let's hope that never happens, but it is always a possibility, which I do not like to think of - my goal when I was younger, was to live in Japan and teach English (though - I may ask him to do this if he stays with me forever, since he's going to school as a journalism/english major). I use to buy random books "teaching English in Asia" when I was younger, and tried to teach myself the language - becoming obsessed with anything Japanese. I think I grew out of that stage a bit ago - I have these "obsessive" moments... I'll find a country I like, and imagine myself living there. From the teachers here - thank you all for your comments. Is there anything you could recommend doing before becoming a teacher, in a way that would make me unique and well above the competative range?

frenchy

POSTED: Sat, 01/30/2010 - 6:47am Yes there is something you can do. Try to get as many endorsements on your certificate as possible. It makes you more hireable. I teach K-12 and all subjects. With the ESOL and Gifted I can go anywhere in Florida and be assured a job.

JSB

POSTED: Fri, 01/29/2010 - 9:25pm It is good to hear from you Being where you are I was a little concerned. Teaching in NYC....great idea.Living in Brooklyn,also great idea,I hear.Frenchy mentioned a school to you,in a posting.My sister is a teacher and I can ask her.Also,I have very dear friends who live outside the city but know it well and I will ask for their ideas when they get back from the latest vacation. Your plans are really exciting.Best of luck! Jean

Marilyn

POSTED: Fri, 01/29/2010 - 6:11pm Good to hear from you You have big dreams, that is good. With your experience the world should be your oyster. Bonne chance.

sammijean06

POSTED: Sun, 01/03/2010 - 11:56pm Greetings from Abroad! ...and I wish that was some place absolutely fascinating, but alas, it is not. I'm currently in Afghanistan, as a Marine. I never knew you could despise a job so much in your entire life, and the one thing you're supposed to be fighting for (freedom) is the one thing that gets wiped away from you as soon as you join. I bought FWDGF because spending most of my days deployed (Iraq not even a year ago, and then Afghanistan for another 4 months) I find it rather difficult to stay healthy. I needed a new way of dealing with things, and to be honest, it's extremely hard! I realized though, after reading, even if I'm the last person to be eating, I eat so quickly, and by the time I walk back to my office, I'm completely, uncomfortably stuffed. I don't eat as much junk food as I use to, but then it's not every day that I can get to the chow hall for their lovely served meals (fried chicken anyone?) Please sense the sarcasm in what I'm saying, and find that days when we do have extremely unhealthy food I find myself eating a bowl of ramen noodles, filled with unnecessay amounts of salt and hardly appetizing. I admire the way those from the Scandinavian area and Mediterranean area eat. They enjoy food that's in season and enjoy fresh ingredients...not the overly processes, I can live in my car for a year and it still has no mold on it, that I've grown accustomed to in America. As jealousy arises, I want to make a difference in my lifestyle, and while I'm taking babysteps there, I am unsure if any of you can give me little tips/ideas that I may be missing. Oh, also, I will be getting out of the military in July. I will be going to college for a dual major in French and Early Childhood Education. After that, I will be volunteering abroad in Africa, hopefully understanding the French language a bit better, and using my teaching skills to teach under privileged children who do not have the luxury of receiving an education. I have never been to France, but my boyfriend knows how much I adore the country, reading about history/facts as much as I possibly can, and promises one day to take me there. I hope to spend quite a bit of time here learning about each and every one of you (have just been reading privately for a few days...) Xo - Samantha

Marilyn

POSTED: Wed, 01/06/2010 - 8:49am Sammi Welcome to the site from a very snowy UK. I do so admire what you and all nationalities of troops are doing out there. A day doesn't pass here when we get reports of what is happening. I have learnt to ignore the politics of the situation and think of the military personnel involved. You certainly deserve your trip to France, later this year hopefully. The FWDGF is a life style we all try to uphold, at times with difficulty. Perhaps there is a way you can choose the good thingd from the menus (if there are any). It must be difficult for those chefs doing the cooking is such dire circumstances. Fresh produce must be hard to come by. Keep thinking that once July comes you will be able to embrace the lifestyle to the full. Meanwhile remember the 50% rule and try to eat slowly by enjoying, if possible, every mouthful. We will think of you until we know you and your boyfriend are safely home. Marilyn

violette

POSTED: Mon, 01/04/2010 - 4:30pm Greetings to Sammi: Bonjour Sammi: First off KNOW what you are doing and what you have done is simply awesome! We are so proud of you! Marine!!!! How great you read Mirelle's book! And welcome to this fun website! I, for one am overjoyed you are here, as I have a nephew, who is a new Marine and just finished his artillery training, and headed off to his assignment. What a reminder how we ALL only live once, and to make the most of it, for sure. WOW, Sammi: I think it's totally cool how you are there! Anyway, how great it is that you read Mirelle's book and have some life goals...as far as eating, cooking, etc. For, Sammi, you can still live like a French Woman while being in the military, I think, can't you????? Go for it! AND, keep your French Woman mindset still with you, despite your military agenga. Once again, it's awesome you are here Sammi!!!!! Your French Friend, Violette~ Semper Fi ****Good movie: The Black Book***

Viva la Diva

POSTED: Mon, 01/04/2010 - 2:56pm Dear Samantha, Semper Fi....and welcome! Boy do you I understand your plight. I used to work in construction. I was the only woman on the job and let's just say, it astonishes me what men can gulp down without a second thought. I mean how many pork roll egg and cheese can a girl eat in a week! I will save my "What are Americans doing to themsleves?" speech for another post. Be true to yourself. You are what matters most! Is it possible for us to ship you things? Maybe some lite fare would be allowed in? Any requests... The great news is that you only have 7 more months. Count the days with us. Yours in all things French, Diva

JSB

POSTED: Mon, 01/04/2010 - 11:00am Welcome Samantha Your post floored me.That is an incredible thing you are doing.You will and are bringing a special and unique perspective here.As you know,Canadians are in Afghanistan as well,so I have a deep an abiding respect for anyone who puts their freedom on the line to help others. If anyone deserves a trip to France it is you.Tell your BF to start a fund and I'll contribute.:-)) Your food situation is disgusting.I work in in a hospital and know what you mean about processed food.Scary stuff.It is nearly impossible to select a healthy meal.Perhaps,for you slowing down your eating and practicing the 50% solution will suffice. July can't come soon enough.And your plans for afterwards are exciting. A good friend just rang,and when I told her I was communicating with you she said"Our prayers and thoughts are with her,as they are with all the troops there." Take very good care.Be well.Jean

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