Life Before Noon: A Millennial’s Manual

As most of Life Before Noon has already done, I will follow suit and describe my first few days on the job. It began on Wednesday. Like Rachel I prepared the night before - deciding what to wear and making sure I packed all the documents I would need when I went to the Personnel Department first thing in the morning. Unlike what some of my fellow bloggers experienced I had the fortune of only having to walk to work. A five minute walk, short elevator ride and there I was.

Things took a slight turn after that.

Reaching the 18 floor only then did I realize that I needed to sign in with reception before going into the elevator. I soon understood that all the doors leading to the different departments of the organization have a security block that requires a chip in order for the door to open. Instead of bothering with proper protocol I went straight up and proceeded to knock on the doors until I was let in.

All was going smoothly until I was asked for my passport.

Oops. Setback number two.

Finally, I headed to my floor. I met with my boss and we began discussing the various projects I would work on, the organizational culture, etc. She then started explaining some politics and the organization’s hierarchy - in Bosnian. Needless to say I was lost, so she began again, this time in English.

The rest of the day passed without any major setbacks. I now know that when leaving or entering the office I have to check my security chip, I know that the bathroom door opens by pushing a button located in the office and I know that I love Post-it notes. I have them all over my computer with tid-bits reminding me of phone numbers and e-mails.

My case of the Wednesdays ended way before I took a bat to the fax machine and although I’ve only been at this for three days and I still have two days of training this week, I believe that I’m slowly beginning to get the hang of things. By asking questions, not being afraid to make a fool of myself (which I have), and paying attention to what I’ve been told, I’m managing to get by, even in Bosnian.

-Aida

While watching the news recently, I saw a report about the funniest, and most creative, way to post your resume – wear it.

DamnINeedAJob.com, a new Web site that’s all about the job hunt, allows people to create a shirt which boasts their skills and abilities, just like a resume. The $25 shirt, written as a type of cover letter, includes text chosen by the buyer and even starts with a hand-picked salutation. And to make sure no potential employer misses the message, the shirt boldly displays the words, “Damn, I Need A Job. Know of Anything?” across its front.

The creator, who seems to prefer being anonymous- I couldn’t find his name anywhere on the Web site- is completely changing the way people look for jobs, while at the same time poking fun at the “your next employer could be anywhere” mentality. He says the shirts attract so much attention that he’s started carrying around resumes to hand people who are interested.

Several new features have been added as the Web site gains popularity, including a blog, discussion forum for the unemployed and DamnINeedMoney.com, a collection of articles and other resources for those finding the job hunt difficult and tedious.

No word on if the idea has actually landed him a job, but I think he should get props for sheer creativity.

-Haley

I’m finally starting to get ready for my move across the ocean. As I thought about the shoes, coats and other various things to pack, I realized that with all the travel regulations I would have to adjust my mindset of what to bring. Whether you’re moving to another country or going on a quick business trip, it’s important to be prepared.

1. The first step of course is to find a ticket. One site that I use a lot is Kayak.com, another is studentuniverse.com, which offers discounted tickets to those who are still students. Another way to find a good, cheap ticket is to compare the actual airline you’re flying.

2. The step that I find myself in a panic over is packing. Think about carry-ons vs. checking in, which also requires a thought process of two-week stay, six-months move. The Transportation of Security Administration has regulations on what can be included in carry-ons. Prohibited items include bringing sharp objects like pocket knives, scissors, etc. and there are regulations on liquids. Also check with your individual airline for their regulations on baggage size and weight limits.

3. So, you have your ticket and everything is packed, you just have to get to the airport and get on the plane. Take note that if you’re on a domestic flight you should arrive one and a half to two hours before you’re scheduled to take off. If you’re on an international flight you should arrive two and a half to three hours ahead of time. Allowing yourself more time to check-in and go through security checks will help ensure that the whole process goes smoother and quicker.

By being prepared and knowing what to expect in the airport, you will have a more enjoyable trip. Another resource to check out with great information is an article on the latest air travel tips issued.

Happy flying.

-Aida