So… why Penn Foster? Believe it or not, I asked myself this same question over a year ago. As I began my career in the wedding industry I realized I desired more than just the self-proclaimed title of “wedding planner.” Anyone with knowledge of the wedding industry can title himself or herself a wedding planner. I didn’t just want to call myself a “wedding planner,” I wanted to carry a professional title that I had earned. I knew there would be multiple advantages to this decision. Obviously, I knew I would gain more knowledge of the wedding industry, but I would also learn how to properly manage my business effectively and efficiently. I would also obtain that much-desired professional designation.
Deciding on Penn Foster was not a decision I took lightly. In fact, it took me several months of research before deciding Penn Foster offered exactly what I desired. I found their course outline to be very thorough and detailed. While researching Penn Foster, I also noticed that Gerard and Eileen Monaghan—the co-founders of the Association of Bridal Consultants--wrote the course itself. I had already decided that along with whatever course I took (Penn Foster or otherwise) I also wanted to join a professional organization. Knowing that the Monaghans wrote the Penn Foster Professional Bridal Consultant course was a huge deciding factor for me. Who else would be better qualified to write a course on wedding consulting?
In June of 2007 I completed my Professional Bridal Consultant course from Penn Foster, earning my career diploma. Not only did I earn my diploma, but the completion of this course also allowed me to qualify for the Association of Bridal Consultant’s Professional Bridal Consultant (PBC) designation.
Contributing blogger: Teresa M., Penn Foster Bridal Consultant graduate
The newest trend in today’s job market seems to be what Baby Boomers are calling Encore Careers. This generation is now defining “retirement” as a career change rather than a career cessation. In fact, 76 percent of all boomers expect to continue working after retirement, often in a completely new position or career according to Christina Couch (2007).
This new movement has even spurred the development of the Encore Careers Grant that will create educational opportunities for the baby boomer’s to continue their education beyond retirement. The prominent sectors of these “encore careers” include health care, education and social services (Couch, 2007).
As an added bonus, the transition of the “boomers” into new careers will play a positive role in keeping our economy “in the black” as they say. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' reports, by the year 2014, an estimated 78 million boomers will gradually make their way out of the workforce with only 75.6 million workers entering to replace them. Therefore, programs designed to update, re-skill, and transition boomers into new careers will definitely have a positive impact on our nation as a whole.
It looks like retirement is becoming a thing of the past for the middle class. No more “winter condos” in Florida or retirement homes in Arizona. With the Social Security System in shambles and the status of our economy I guess it’s no wonder. Regardless, the next 5 to 10 years should be quite interesting!
Source: Couch, Christina. “Encore Careers: When It Comes Time to Retire, Many Baby Boomers Say 'The Show Must Go On'”. (http://jobs.aol.com/article/onlinecampus/_a/encore-careerswhen-it-comes-time-to/20070905095809990002)
I found an article online recently that got my attention. It was written by Tamar Snyder titled Training for Top Three In-Demand Jobs on American Online’s http://jobs.aol.com website. According to the article, Manpower Inc. conducted its annual talent shortage survey for 2007 and it revealed that sales reps, teachers and auto mechanics are the top three in-demand jobs for 2007. It also made mention of other jobs that made the top ten list which included truck drivers, technicians, accountants and machine operators.
Before reading this article my listing of the top in-demand jobs would have involved occupations in the medical profession like nurses. I’d even concede to mentioning math and science teachers (specifically) having a slight understanding of their demand since my husband is a math teacher. I always assumed there was an over-abundance of elementary (K-6) teachers due to the number of individuals I know that have issues obtaining employment. But, it goes to show that assumptions are simply that – a best guess at the truth.
I was very intrigued by the fact that careers in auto mechanics made the top three. Towards the end of the article it explained that the issue of the job shortage can be somewhat attributed to retiring baby boomers. Apparently these individuals are retiring and there are less and less people willing to replace them. This is a field that I never would have thought to be in-demand or in need of workers. Cars, trucks, SUV’s and the like are definitely here to stay and I don’t see the industry folding any time soon. Luckily, training to become an auto mechanic doesn’t have to be a struggle. So, if you have or ever had an interest in working within the automotive industry – now would be your chance! The market is overflowing with opportunities and the jobs are ripe for the picking!
Source: Snyder, Tamar. (2007). Training for Top Three In-Demand Jobs.
(http://jobs.aol.com/article/onlinecampus/_a/training-for-top-three-in-demand-jobs/20070430112409990001?ncid=AOLCOMMjobsDYNLsec0002)
Having spent over 40 years in the business world, I’ve seen more than my share of very successful people. The most successful all seem to share a common trait; they really enjoy what they do.
You see, choosing a career based solely on earning potential can be a big mistake. Of course, everyone wants a high paying job but the truth is high salaries only come with success. What is the real key to achieving success in a career? Well if you asked the rich and famous I’m sure their answers would be the same. “The key to success is choosing to do something that you really enjoy doing.”
There are some very good reasons why choosing to do something you like leads to success and high earnings. The fact is when you chose a career you really enjoy, you look forward to going to work each day. When you enjoy your job, it shows in your work and your attitude. Your employers see it and when you are dealing with customers they see it, too. You also have the desire to become more proficient at your job by learning more about your field. That additional education not only increases your earnings, but also expands your career horizons. In fact, if you choose a career that initially requires formal education or training, the learning experience quickly becomes something you look forward to rather than drudgery. So, what is the real secret of achieving success and making a very good living? The answer is simple; do something you really enjoy doing and get paid for it at the same time.
Contributing Blogger - John M. (Freelance Writing Graduate - 1999)
Penn Foster came along at just the right time…I spent 30 years building a career at a local utility company. For many of those years, I watched as many friends and colleagues lost their jobs. I decided then that if my time came, and it did in 2003, I wanted to work for an industry that valued its employees. I turned to the medical profession.
With no formal education, and 30 years of office experience, I turned to the Medical Transcription Program at Penn Foster. I was familiar with a computer and had worked with a variety of Microsoft Office programs; all I needed was the medical terminology knowledge. That’s where Penn Foster was a big help. I began the distance learning course in 2003 with a plan. I set a goal of 18 months to complete the course and began my studies. I paid for my course up front, which was a considerable savings for me, and it also meant I wouldn’t have to wait for the next pack of materials to arrive.
I was a little frustrated, at times, at not having my instructor right there to ask questions. Since most of my studies were done at night and on weekends she wasn’t always available by phone, and the e-mails, sometimes, seemed more like snail-mail. But I persevered. During this time, I secured a position as a secretary/transcriber. I completed my course and received my certificate. Penn Foster helped me become a success. Thank You, Penn Foster.
Contributing blogger: Cindy K.
(Penn Foster Graduate - Medical Transcriptionist)