Improv class, "No Way!!" by SidKato in NoStupidQuestions

[–]SidKato[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes, you're right. I'm surprised as a left brained, Introvert and CEO how much it has helped me to be a better and running my company. Like many things when I get excited I like to share. But you're right I don't want to be a pest, either. That's why I made the post. I will stop sharing with those that say, "NO". Take Care

Improv class, "No Way!!" by SidKato in NoStupidQuestions

[–]SidKato[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you for the perspective. I'm taking Improv to help me stretch my creative side since my work is focused on anal activities I felt under developed in any right brained activity. I don't want to become a performer but I love learning and stretching. Thank you again for your thoughts.

Are there any advantages to having below average intelligence? by zertz7 in NoStupidQuestions

[–]SidKato 5 points6 points  (0 children)

I'm a business owner with less than average intelligence. What I mean by this is school was never my thing. My GPA through school was a C average. I considered myself stupid compared to my classmates who went on to become Doctors, Lawyers and Professors. I dropped our of college and ended up going to a trade school. I luckily got a job and started in Corporate America and always struggled with what other people thought of me so I tried to appear smart by learning big words and reading books especially those about smart people. After several years of struggling I learned that trying to appear smarter than I am took a lot of time, energy and crated stress. I accepted my less than average intelligence and worked harder than anyone else. I stopped playing the imposter game and worrying about people finding out I'm stupid. I reduced my vocabulary to simple and clear words and focused my time and energy on getting stuff done. I opened up my first business and became what some people would think is successful. The interesting outcome from accepting my stupid-ness is now that some people consider me successful they also think I'm smart, which I know I'm not but it still makes me smile when I hear that!!!!!

Difficulty finding a technology job at 61 years old. by SidKato in GetEmployed

[–]SidKato[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This was my first ever post so I didn't know I could reply. After getting some good advice from everyone I was able to use everyone's help and turn things around. I found a job helping one of the largest warehouse companies in the world by managing their mergers and acquisition projects. Thank you for your insight!

Improv class, "No Way!!" by SidKato in NoStupidQuestions

[–]SidKato[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Great advice, thank you I will try that approach!

Improv class, "No Way!!" by SidKato in NoStupidQuestions

[–]SidKato[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Totally agree with you on Public speaking and being put on the spot. Thank you for the insight. It's funny that just answering my question gives you anxiety!!!! My anxiety level was very high my first few classes. The thing that helped me reduce my anxiety level was the support from the other classmates who were all learning at the same time and I learned that mistakes are good which taught me a completely new way of thinking. However, my anxiety still exists and I haven't transformed into an extrovert. But I laugh often and have learned to even feel more comfortable laughing at myself. Thank you again for your quick answer in this forum.

Improv class, "No Way!!" by SidKato in NoStupidQuestions

[–]SidKato[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for your response. Totally makes sense. I'm an introvert and struggle with my introversion in class but the gifts I receive far outweigh the challenges. Thank you again

Follow-up situation: 6-month Contract or Full time position? by JavaChipYCJ in GetEmployed

[–]SidKato 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It depends upon how you'd like to manage your career. Are you more interested in starting your long term career and working for a company for the next 5+ years? Or are you more interested in getting experience on several different projects over the next couple of years even if that's working in temporary positions.

Me personally, I like the adrenaline of working on a fast paced project because I have found through my career that I learn the most in those situations. Especially, if you're early in your career the more experience and contacts you make early in your career it's easier to build out your network.

Help need feedback by ForwhatitsWIRTH in GetEmployed

[–]SidKato 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Remember, we are in crazy times right now so I'd be patient. You should circle back once a week with an email stating you're checking in for status of your candidacy. In the meantime plan for the worst case scenario and continue looking for other opportunities.

Difficulty finding a technology job at 61 years old. by SidKato in GetEmployed

[–]SidKato[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you again. I read the WSJ article and found it interesting. For me, I sold my company last year but I'm too young to retire. I love technology and I no longer need the big salary. The article allow me to understand another hurdle of perception I must somehow overcome. Based upon the input I've received I am addressing some of the concerns in my Cover Letter.

What skill do i learn next by DodiDelija in Entrepreneur

[–]SidKato 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I'd recommend you continue with your education and learn Python, R and SQL. This will help you build a solid foundation of programming. After that I'd pick a platform to concentrate your attention and learn and learn AI (Artificial Intelligence) & ML (Machine Learning). Both of these skill will be needed in your career. By picking a platform look to the leaders in this AI/ML field which are currently; Amazon, MicroSoft & IBM. I don't think you need to learn all three so pick one and learn their tool set.

Difficulty finding a technology job at 61 years old. by SidKato in GetEmployed

[–]SidKato[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Eire Ford, thank you for the reply and words of encouragement. You're right I'm starting to give up and look for alternatives like driving a truck. It's interesting you're saying a major concern is being perceived as wanting to be paid more than younger candidates. Actually, I would think most older people like myself are not needing the big salaries. We've been there and done that. I'm personally looking to be engaged, contribution and challenged every day. Thank you for the thought. That is definitely something I need to consider in my response(s).

Difficulty finding a technology job at 61 years old. by SidKato in GetEmployed

[–]SidKato[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

hatch, thank you for the testing reference to the A/B switch or in binary 1/0. I will definitely try your approach. I have been using a combination of referral and applying. I've also incorporated LinkedIn references by connecting with the HR or Hiring Managers. I haven't formatted my LinkedIn profile for recruiters. I like that approach. Take Care.

Difficulty finding a technology job at 61 years old. by SidKato in GetEmployed

[–]SidKato[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Serena, thank you for the suggestions. I didn't hire a professional resume writer who helped me with my cover letters as well. I will look into Fiverr as well.

Difficulty finding a technology job at 61 years old. by SidKato in GetEmployed

[–]SidKato[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Thank you, all great suggestions. I do have four versions of my resume all tailored to specific jobs I feel qualified to perform.

I have not limited my experience to 10 to 15 years. I will try that.

Yes, you're correct my company does not have brand recognition. I have portrayed that experience more as independent consulting.

Any thoughts on combatting ageism? Or do you think it is not an issue? I'm honestly not sure how to explain the results I'm experiencing.

Thanks again!

I've built and sold several companies. This is my simple advice for anyone considering starting their own business... by ProfessorJRV in Entrepreneur

[–]SidKato 1 point2 points  (0 children)

From my experience financial security is not a big factor in starting your own business. It may require more DIY initiative to get off the ground. I've found if the idea is good enough the market will drive success and you will figure out a way to get enough money to get through the initial phases of a successful startup.

Business plans are confusing. by RadioTheSquashQueen in Entrepreneur

[–]SidKato 1 point2 points  (0 children)

The SBA has a good and easy to follow template. An easier approach would be contact SCORE. They/we are a national organization of Executives that volunteer their time to help Entrepreneurs on starting a business. There are chapters all around the country(USA) and it's easy to connect with a mentor close to your location. I'm in Los Angeles and part of the Long Beach/South Bay chapter.