Hired-n-Fired (was Re: [BC] oops)

[Jeff Johnson]

>
>The climate has changed. I doubt many companies would hire me (over and 
>above the fact I'm beyond the 20 something hiring age limit) simply 
>because I participate here.
>
>As I've said before, many of the lurkers come to me to ask me to raise an 
>issue. They know they're toast if they appear on any list or newsgroup. 
>Their companies have positions on issues. All must run in lockstep. We 
>can't have an employee disagreeing with some exalted Vice President. Even 
>asking a technical question is often off limits. God help you if you 
>comment on IBUZ.
>
>Getting fired in 21st Century radio is almost a given. It's not a matter 
>of if, but when. I have friends who have been fired for being unwilling to 
>risk their lives just to keep a transmitter on the air.
>
>Rich

Ah, it is good to be an independent! Nor was there was a problem the years 
I worked for X-Star/Xavier. Our former boss, Dr. Jim King, applauded an 
independent nature, and when one of us was published in one of the industry 
'rags' - 'er publications - he was delighted. Then, he was a maverick in 
public radio. Alas, that era is over.

Since I was 'downsized', I've participated in the job posting/resume 
charade. I've never done that before in my life. It is amazing to me how 
RUDE the process is. Even when sending a resume and cover letter (not via 
email unless requested) in direct response to a job posting, no response 
has ever been received. Not even a 'Thank you, get lost!'. Posting a resume 
on the SBE site has garnered nothing. Attending an Indiana Broadcasters 
Association job fair and submitting resumes all around, including the 
sponsors, was useless. Not even the IBA sent a 'thank you for attending our 
affair' email. Scanning the major broadcast conglomerate's websites for 
postings, and sending letters and resumes garnered one response with a 
gushy "come see me, or I'll come visit you" email from a corporate 
engineering VP. I responded to his invitation to call his cell #, but got 
an immediate brush-off. A curt email a couple of days later mentioned an 
assistant position might be available. Rudeness.

Now, I am mentioning this not because I really want a job in the corporate 
world. I would not fit. My friend and our former CE, Jay, have kidded each 
other how much it would cost an employer for us to show up in an office in 
a suit in the morning and keep business hours. What?? We are not bankers or 
lawyers! Those people have no idea how efficient and cost effective the two 
of us are, they cannot see past the shine on a pair of wingtips. We don't 
play golf either!

So, it is good to be independent. I can voice my opinions here, there, and 
everywhere - and learn from those of us reamaining also able to do so.

Jeff.Johnson at goodnews.net