Lift, Inc.

Programmer Analyst Positions – Lift, Inc.

2008-05-20T19:30:00.002-04:00

Locations:
Westchester County, New York
Hunterdon County, New Jersey

Recent college graduates selected for these positions will gain unique opportunities to build technical, business and leadership skills in a team-oriented environment with a leading insurance company.

Qualifications/Requirements:
· Bachelor’s degree as of June 2008
· Acceptable score on programmer aptitude tests
· Strong communications skills
· Ambition

Starting salaries are excellent. Career potential is unlimited.

To apply for this position, or make a referral, contact Ron Kozberg at liftinc@aol.com

Featured Openings -- April 2008

2008-04-18T23:28:00.003-04:00

If you’re eager for a career in information technology or information management don’t wait to apply until you see your ideal job posted here, because this isn’t an exhaustive list. We’re recruiting for positions across the US. Most openings require a college degree; some require experience. All require talent, initiative, and ambition.

Entry-Level Programmer-Analyst (Western New Jersey)

Are you a recent college graduate, or do you plan to graduate this semester? This is a unique opportunity for someone who wants to build technical, business and management skills while working with one of the nation’s leading insurance companies. Requirements: excellent analytical and problem-solving ability, a passion for software, great communications skills and a desire to learn.

IMS Technical Support (San Jose, California)

Fantastic opening for a professional who wants to work with topnotch professionals on a database change team for one of the world’s premier technical companies. Familiarity with IMS and/or Assembler and PLX required. OS/390, zOS, dump reading background preferred. Training and mentoring available to help fill skill gaps for the highly motivated selected candidate.

Technical Support Specialist (Research Triangle Park, North Carolina)

This is an outstanding opportunity to work with state-of-the-art technology in a strong team environment with a leading corporation. Applicants should demonstrate exceptional technical aptitude, as well as excellent problem solving and interpersonal skills, and must have a strong desire to learn. Selected candidates will have the chance to work on multiple platforms. A Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience required. Helpful skills: relational database, JAVA, Distributed Op Sys.

Software Developers (Harrisburg, Pennsylvania)

Great positions for recent college grads with computer science background who are eager to learn new skills, or experienced professionals with knowledge of COBOL and JCL. Strong analytical ability and excellent teamwork skills a must.

If interested in any of these positions, send your resume to liftinc@aol.com, and mention the job title in the subject line.

2008-02-15T21:38:00.000-05:00

Confessions of an iTunes Junkie

2008-01-16T18:15:00.000-05:00

I bought a new, upgraded computer system—an iMac—last July. I hated to see my old Windows machine and laser printer go. I had worked with the equipment for eight years and loved it. But certain things about it began to drive me up the wall as newer technologies were developed. Friends and family urged me to upgrade when I told them how old my computer was. They could also see how stressed I was feeling. So I took the plunge. It’s been a journey learning an entirely new system, but it is worth it. I donated my old computer system to a nonprofit Washington, DC, organization, First Time Computers, that donates Windows computers to low-income families.

An unintended consequence of this investment, however, has been a growing love for iTunes. I’m not, nor will I ever be, a musician, so I won’t be recording songs or using GarageBand any time soon. I also won’t be putting my vast CD collection on my computer. My computer is reserved for writing projects only. I didn’t want to get involved with iTunes at all, but one day I decided to explore it. That was my undoing.

I love iTunes Radio! As I’m writing this, my local station, Classical WETA 90.9, plays softly in the background—Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty. I also enjoy WTOP, my News/Talk station, and Bluegrasscountry.org, where bluegrass music and several favorite public radio programs migrated when another station decided to go digital and split its programming. WGBH gives me a link to Boston, which I enjoyed visiting in the fall of 2007. I also enjoy FolkAlley.com, Play Classical UK (a small link to a place I’ve always wanted to visit), Solo Piano Radio, and BeatlesRadio.com. Many choices are available depending on mood. Instrumental music feels better during the workday, especially if you’re in a quiet home office.

Who knew that I would have to spend so much of my free time at the computer, too? I never even thought I would ever be playing CDs on a computer. I bought my stereo in early 1989, after I was newly hired at my first job. It’s still going strong, even though I replaced my phonograph needle once and CD changer twice. A stereo is still the best way to enjoy music if you can’t see it live.

Even more than the radio options on iTunes, I discovered a wealth of free podcast resources. I subscribe to 23 so far. Some are more than an hour long. But most are less than 20 minutes. I listen in the evenings since TV is so bad, after network news and “Jeopardy!” Fortunately they all don’t arrive at the same time, and I don’t usually keep episodes after they are played.

Oh, the learning opportunities! I quickly discovered PR Camp with Kathe Stanton. The IT-focused Career Opportunities with Douglas E. Welch is useful for all careers. Welch also produces the general-interest Technology IQ. Another podcast, Freelance Radio, is an informative program for freelance writers, Web designers and independent workers. Lessons in Spanish have not worked out well, but I’m keeping my subscription anyway. The Classic Tales and Classic Books Audio reacquaint me with favorite novels and short stories. Many favorite public radio programs have made it to podcast. I’ve also enjoyed Agatha Christie Radio Theatre and episodes of “The Shadow.”

And always, there is music—classical, Celtic, African and other world music. I wanted a link with Philadelphia, which I visited in the spring of 2007, so I subscribed to the Philadelphia Orchestra “Podchestra.” Boston’s Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum offers weekly Sunday classical music concerts for most of the year. When my aunt and I were there, we were lucky enough to see the musicians rehearse in the Tapestry Room. The actual concert was sold out. When we got back, I subscribed. Now when I listen, I feel like I’m there again. I held off on a Carnegie Hall podcast. I hope to attend a concert there one day. When I was in New York in 1992, we just walked by the building.

Even more than the listening, the process of creating podcasts and vodcasts interests me, although I would love to work with a group of people to do it since I don’t have a broadcasting voice. Actually, that doesn’t matter. Where someone might be irritated by a host’s voice, another person might think it’s wonderful.

Oh no! A few days ago I read about National Public Radio’s new venture, www.NPR.org/music. Yes, I explored the site, and yes, I now subscribe to the “Classical on the Go!” podcast from WGBH. So many podcasts, so little time. Sigh.

Time to play my Beethoven symphonies now….

Technical Support Specialist – Research Triangle Park, NC

2007-12-02T15:12:00.000-05:00

Lift, Inc. announces an exciting opportunity for a talented technology professional seeking an assignment with a leading international corporation. This Level 2 Technical Support position offers an excellent salary, outstanding career potential and a great working environment.

Applicants Must Have:

Superior Technical Aptitude
Superior Problem Solving Skills
Superior Communication Skills
A Strong Desire to Learn
A Bachelor’s Degree or Equivalent Experience
A Physical Disability

Helpful Skills:

WebSphere
Relational Database
JAVA
Distributed Op Sys

Lift, Inc. is the country’s leading, and pioneering, employment firm and employer for IT professionals who have significant physical disabilities.

For further information, or to apply, contact:

Ron Kozberg, CRC
Lift, Inc.
Liftinc@aol.com
908-226-1193

www.lift-inc.org

New Experiences Build Confidence

2007-11-29T20:02:00.000-05:00

Where does confidence come from, anyway? Are people born with it, or is it learned? Maybe a little of both. How do you develop confidence?

I have read (and lots of people have told me) that the only way to become confident is to act as if you are. Then, whatever you undertake will become easier each time. Whether it’s public speaking, learning a foreign language, experimenting with a craft project, or working with new technology, the more you work at it, the more skilled you become.

The one example that bears out in my life, other than getting my writing published, is that for many years I was terrified of using the telephone—a problem that plagued me through college. Journalism, where I would find answers to life’s burning questions and write about undiscovered things, would also force me to pick up the phone and interview complete strangers. That helped to cure me.

I don’t really know why I didn’t like to use the phone; that’s just the way it was. Ironically, the summer jobs I had, and my first professional job, involved much telephone and switchboard work. Over time, a lot of people would ask for me directly when seeking assistance. But there are still days when I have to rehearse a couple of minutes before picking up the handset of my cordless phone, or put it on speakerphone. I selected “Für Elise” as the ringtone for my landline phone. For my new cell phone, I chose a tropical ringtone melody. Both of these make me feel better.

One of the most helpful things anyone ever said to me on the job was, “Of course you can do it! You’re not an airbrain!” At the time I was trying out desktop publishing on a colleague’s Mac. I had never used one before, and was terrified that I would erase the machine’s hard drive. My co-worker showed me a few tips, and then I felt better, and went on to produce flyers and charts for work-related assignments. I never became a graphic designer, but it helped me get over my nervousness about computers in general, and I wanted to know how they worked.

The other way to become confident is to try new things, as scary as it feels. If you are good at leading or speaking in front of small groups, try addressing a larger one. Do you enjoy community plays or musical theater? Try auditioning. Interested in volunteering? Sign up. Interested in art or photography? Sign up for a class. You may surprise yourself.

My aunt is always saying we should attend a kabuki theater production to stretch ourselves, since we go to other types of productions. (She was only kidding at first.) We read a good review once, and promised ourselves we would go to the next kabuki production, even though we know nothing about it. We’ll be there one day. But first comes The Lion King this summer.

You don’t have to be outstanding; just enjoy whatever you are doing. I was never great at Toastmaster’s, but I loved the club that I was in and meeting people from other clubs during competitions. I still enjoy public speaking, as long as I practice a lot beforehand. I may join another chapter at some point. I wasn’t a great swimmer, but I always felt better being in the water, and wished adapted swimming sessions could be longer than 45 minutes twice a week. Maybe I’ll do that again, too.

Of course, it could go the other way. I signed up for an art exploration course one summer, and realized after the first two-hour session that it just wasn’t a good idea. I can’t draw worth a damn, but I didn’t care. I just wanted to try something new. But sometimes that isn’t worth the price of the class. Luckily, I was able to get a refund. And more than a few needlework projects still lie unfinished in a drawer. I’ll finish them one day. It’s just much slower when one hand doesn’t work as well as the other. The bead-stringing workshop would have been a better fit, but I was able to get materials on my own and make necklaces for other people. Never could fit in an art history course, but I read a lot about that anyway. People beg me not to sing, so that killed any attempts at musical theater or forming a band. I’m still not the greatest at networking events, but at least I go when I can.

One time I went to a daylong biology meeting at a local university just for the hell of it. I have no background in biology, and had no real reason for being there, except for looking for something new to write about. That event didn’t result in an article assignment, but it did start me thinking about environmental stewardship. I also learned about Rachel Carson and her work. On breaks I met a lot of great people who were passionate about our planet. Since then, I have written a couple of articles about environmental groups and “living green.” No opportunity to write about solar energy yet.

Confidence comes from trying new experiences, and new experiences enrich our lives in unexpected ways.

Accounting Analyst Lead (Tulsa, Oklahoma)

2007-09-27T21:27:00.000-04:00

Great opportunity for a talented accounting analyst to work for a major international corporation in an exciting career position. Should have strong analytical, decision-making, and communications skills. A Bachelor’s degree in accounting or business, or an Associate’s degree with three years of experience preferred. Oil or gas industry experience a plus. Knowledge of SAO or SAP PRA helpful.

PAS: What Every Person with a Disability Thinks About and Plans For

2007-07-27T21:09:00.000-04:00

Imagine a typical morning. You wake up to the music (or buzzing) of your alarm clock radio. Sunlight streams through the window blinds, or you can tell it's cloudy because of the dark gray light creeps through the slats. You take a few minutes to reflect on the day ahead. It's time to get up. But if your personal care attendant is late or doesn't show up at all, the individual care apparatus hits a huge snag. Disability time is a lot longer than everyday time. Provide you can move at all, it will take quite a while to get from point A to Point B. Otherwise, you're stuck until someone comes. Not fun if you have to go to the bathroom urgently. You're late for work, or have to take the day off. And that slows down your life, not to mention increases the risk of pressure sores. And it's wrong and unfair!

Everyone with a significant disability thinks about personal care attendant issues. Even though it's a highly personal matter, so many of us in the disability community would benefit from frank sharing with each other on this issue. Don't worry at all about being embarrassed. Helping each other is the important thing. Sadly, my local ILC has apparently dropped their PAS support groups and "meet and greets" with PCAs and people who work with them. These meetings would have been useful.

Each state has different policies and programs regarding PAS, and there are not enough services to go around-either in accessible housing or PAS. Finding the best independent living solution requires thorough planning and research, and that can take years and lots of practice. I've collected many names, addresses and contacts. Most helpful are the Center for PAS Web site: http://www.pascenter.org, the National Council on Independent Living: www.ncil.org, http://www.vasilc.org/, and the American Network of Community Options and Resources: http://www.ancor.org/ and its companion Web site, www.YouNeedToKnowMe.org. ANCOR is the professional association for PCAs and other direct-care workers. They don't get paid enough, and there is frequent turnover. Direct Support Professionals Fairness and Security Act of 2007 (Introduced in House) HR 1279 IH: http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/thomas.

Logical places to start are the local independent living center and your local vocational rehabilitation office. (Unfortunately, too many people in the disability community are unimpressed with the people working as PCAs, at least as found on ILC rosters. "Don't go with those people!" is a familiar refrain.) But what else are we supposed to do? We with disabilities are "those people."

The Virginia Department of Rehabilitative Services offers a PAS program with various options that is administered by my local independent living center. The funding is limited, and at least 200 people (most likely more) are currently on the waiting list. It's never too soon to be placed on that list.

Close friends and I talk about attendant services a lot. In the world of PAS, one size most definitely does not fit all. For example, one friend is on his own, with help from his brothers and sisters scattered around the region, constantly in touch by phone. A group of trusted local friends always watches his back, lending a helping hand when needed. He learned a lot over the years by trial and error. Another friend still lives with family, but has learned to manage PCAs herself. So many of us have similar, yet different, stories.

My aunt and I have had frequent and long talks about PAS. Recently I reminded her that no one can afford to wait until a week before scheduled surgery, additional medical happenings, emergency out-of-town trips and so on to find qualified PCAs. Hiring a PCA for a family member is an option, but one to be considered and discussed carefully. It may take years to change opinions and viewpoints. It's one of the things in life that are difficult to talk about, but it must be done.

My PAS plan centers on doing as much as I can for myself, adding independence skills on top of my at-home workday as much as possible, but it is frustrating at times. Now that our home is accessible, much more is possible. I ask about how various things work around the house, do laundry, hang up my clothes (good to have them all in one place), and load the dishwasher. Slowly I'm learning to cook-recently I learned to use the salad spinner. Some movements are harder than others. Eventually I will prepare a complete, balanced meal with no assistance. We've spent enough time in the kitchen where I know how to do most things, but utensils can be tricky and heavy. Processes can be terribly slow. Independence in the bathroom is impossible, and transfers are impossible without help. Improving physically is a slow process.

Another family member (and a neighbor) recently asked whom she designated to assist me when she was no longer here. My aunt replied that it was entirely up to me, and that I would have to hire someone. So I keep collecting and reading. To find things out, you have to ask people. Never think those questions are stupid-you're the one who must ask them in order to direct your own future. It may be a better set-up to have a PCA/roommate, even though total independence was always the goal. For others, people coming in once or twice each day will suffice. Every room should have reachers. These are available in many stores and catalogues.

Many experiences have been and are positive, but I've heard my share of horror stories. It's common advice to hire people you trust, but I have major trust issues. Even though you listen to and heed your gut (It will never steer you in the wrong direction), wariness and discernment are valuable attributes. Look people in the eye, and speak confidently and courteously. If a potential PCA is pushy, rude and doesn't listen to what you say, it's not a good fit. Know what and how to ask questions of references. Know your responsibilities and obligations as an employer under your specific program and under current tax laws.

The best wisdom I can offer from limited experience is this: You won't have the same person helping you all the time. Most PCAs last less than a year, and there is quite a revolving door. You are responsible for managing your own life and things. Don't ask anyone else to manage what you can do yourself. Set appropriate and necessary boundaries. But at the same time, be realistic about your abilities and accept help where needed. Respect the person's time and be organized and prepared. Giving clear, precise instructions is a must. Have at least two backups and a spreadsheet or calendar to track hours and schedules. Most of all, never think of these folks as just people there to help you. Be respectful and friendly. They can grow into supportive friends with the right attitude, nurturing and approach.

I would love to hear from others about their PAS experiences. Please post a comment on the blog if you'd like. The following article I wrote on PAS was originally published in Mainstream magazine in 1998 and grew out of a graduate school project. It still has a life on the Web in the September 2001 Bridges newsletter. Here's the link to paste in your browser: http://64.233.167.104/search?q=cache:jcSeFN76oc8J:www.advocacycenter.com/admin/pdf/
sept%2520bridge%252001.pdf+%22Carrie+Smoot%22&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=58&gl=us. You'll have to scroll down to see it. I hope it is still useful.

PAS in the Workplace

The last day that I went anywhere alone was July 14, 2002. I went into downtown DC to conduct an interview for a magazine article I was writing about local foreign language classes. I finished the interview, found a restroom and then got in trouble-again.
I had pulled up my clothes, but I couldn't get up off the floor to get back in my wheelchair. I didn't have the strength. There wasn't any pain or tears this time, just resignation and embarrassment. Luckily, a security guard helped me. I knew my days of roaming the DC area by myself by bus and subway were essentially over unless I could lose weight and get my health back. Just the week before, citing liability issues, my local library (my home away from home) asked if there was technology or accommodation they could provide to prevent my falls in the restroom. Since there was nothing anyone could do, I said I would bring someone to help me. My aunt has accompanied me most times anywhere since then, at scheduled times, which has worked pretty well, although sometimes I feel hemmed in. I very much want to handle myself independently again. I exercise, try to eat properly, and continue to practice independent transfers. Sometimes progress feels like it's ground to a halt. But you can't worry over past mistakes-it's important to go forward from where you are and work hard to improve. Although I have done well working at home, sometimes it's still hard to ignore full-time opportunities I see in my inbox. I hit the delete button quickly.

My physical problems began while I still worked full time and was always going full tilt, completely ignoring my disability. The troubles began slowly, over time, until one day I couldn't manage by myself anymore. I took myself out of the traditional workforce. No office mates, no matter how supportive, will be willing to assist anyone regularly with that. It's embarrassing and difficult for the person as well.

The person with a disability is responsible for hiring a workplace PCA. Workplace PAS also involves the adjustment or trading of duties, moving things around in the office for easier access, hiring sign language interpreters, etc. The Job Accommodation Network does a great job of giving examples in workplace PAS situations: http://www.jan.wvu.edu/media/PAS.html. There is no easy answer, but you have to keep trying.

FEATURED OPENINGS May-June 2007

2007-05-28T21:56:00.000-04:00

Lift has exciting new opportunities, and more every day. If you have background in information technology, information management, marketing or finance, don’t wait to apply until you see your ideal job posted here, because this isn’t an exhaustive list. Here’s a sampling of today’s openings:

Technical Writers (San Jose, California & Westborough, Massachusetts)

Successful candidates will be skilled at creating clear technical information about software products, and have a conceptual understanding of programming languages and relational database systems. Applicants should have experience in designing and evaluating information, using mark-up languages such as HTML and XML, and creating topic-based information. Must be flexible, detail-oriented, and work well with local and remote teams. Bachelors level degree or equivalent experience.

Technical Consultants (Anywhere in U.S, Preference for D.C. Metropolitan area.)

Experienced professionals with design, development, and delivery experience. Should have skills in one or more of the brands in the IBM Software Portfolio, e.g. *Websphere (AppSrvr, Modeler/Monitor,MQ, MB,Portal, WPS); *DB2(CM,DM, RM,UDB); *Lotus (Domino, Notes, Quickplace, Sametime, Workflow); *Rational (RequisitePro,RAD,etc); *Tivoli (TAM/TIM, Config Mgr, OMEGAMON, Stg Mgr). Experience with Service Oriented Architecture framework a plus, as is background with federal customers. Security clearance required. Bachelors level degree or equivalent experience.

WebSphere Technical Support Specialist (Bentonville, Arkansas)

Deep technical diagnostic skills in IBM WebSphere MQ on Windows, Unix and z/OS preferred. The selected candidate will communicate directly with product support teams, communicate to all levels of management within the customer team, and expedite resolution of critical problems. A capability to apply best practices for problem prevention and proactive support activities is required. Bachelors level degree or equivalent experience.

Marketing Intelligence Consultant/Team Lead (New York Metropolitan Area)

The market intelligence consultant will act as a subject matter expert for a leading high technology firm. The selected candidate will understand critical business requirements, be able to provide fact-based advisory services, and be ready to lead teams and programs. The right candidate will thrive on interactions with senior executives and line management, and have superior communications, leadership, and negotiation skills. This is a great opportunity to engage in critical business initiatives covering an exciting range of strategic and execution issues. The ideal candidate will possess a minimum of a bachelors degree in marketing, business or a related discipline. High tech background preferred.

Applications Programmer/Web Developer (Northern New Jersey)

The successful applicant will have current skills in applications programming and web development, be a self-starter. Java and C++ required. Great assignment with a mid-sized IT firm.

SPA DBA (San Jose, California)

Service Process Architecture database administrator. Should have some background in mainframe-based database administration. Excellent opportunity for career growth.

Featured Openings for mid-April 2007

2007-04-16T20:41:00.000-04:00

Lift has exciting new opportunities, and more every day. If you have background in information technology, information management, marketing or finance, don't wait to apply until you see your ideal job posted here, because this isn't an exhaustive list. Here's a sampling of today's openings:

Technical Writers (San Jose, California & Westborough, Massachusetts)
Two fantastic opportunities for technical writers experienced in creating technical documentation for software products, especially database products.

. Net Developer (Whippany, New Jersey)
Great firm. Must have solid skills in .net development.

Financial Analyst (Tulsa, Oklahoma)
An exciting new opportunity for a financial analyst, preferably with experience in the energy industry, with one of the world's leading corporations.

Marketing Intelligence Professional (New York Metropolitan Area)
Knowledge of the high tech market, experience in marketing intelligence, strategic thinking, and leadership required.

Technical Consultants (Anywhere in U.S.)
Must have security clearance, current IT skills and be able to travel.

Technical Support Specialist (Bentonville, Arkansas)
Great opportunity for someone with excellent communication and zOS skills, and experience with IBM WebSphere MQ.

Entry-Level Programmer-Analyst (Westchester, New York)
Recent college graduate? Build technical, business and management skills while working with one of the nation's leading corporations. Excellent communications skills are a must.

If interested in any of these positions, send your resume to liftinc@aol.com, and mention the job title in the subject line.

More IT Job Opportunities --Westchester, NY and Parsippany, NJ

2007-03-30T14:36:00.000-04:00

Here are the latest opportunities from Lift, Inc.

Westchester, New York - Programmer/Analysts - A Fortune 100 client seeks dynamic recent college graduates for unique entry-level positions in programming-analysis. Applicants selected will build technical, business and management skills while working with one of the nation's leading corporations. Excellent communications skills are a must.

Parsippany, New Jersey - Web Programmer/Developer - A firm specializing in the telecommunications industry seeks an experienced web developer for a long-term consulting position. A great place to work.

If interested in any of these positions, send your resume to liftinc@aol.com, and mention the job title in the subject line.

Featured Openings -- March/April 2007

2007-03-21T23:54:00.000-04:00

Lift has exciting new opportunities, and more every day. If you have background in information technology, information management, and/or finance, don’t wait to apply until you see your ideal job posted here, because this isn’t an exhaustive list. Here’s a sampling of today’s openings:

Technical Writer (San Jose, California):

Fantastic opportunity for a technical writer experienced in creating technical documentation for software products, especially database products. Must be skilled at creating clear, task-oriented technical information; designing and evaluating information; using mark-up languages such as HTML and XML; and creating topic-based information. Will work both independently and with local and remote teams.

Programmer-Analyst (Clinton, New Jersey):

A Fortune 100 client seeks a dynamic recent college graduate for a unique entry-level position in programming-analysis. The applicant selected will build technical, business and management skills while working with one of the nation’s leading corporations. Excellent analytical skills are a must.

Web Developer, Programmer-Analyst (Parsippany, New Jersey):

A firm specializing in the telecommunications industry seeks an experienced analyst or developer for a long-term consulting position.

Financial Analyst (Tulsa, Oklahoma):

An exciting new opportunity for a financial analyst with experience in the energy industry, with one of the world’s leading corporations.

If interested in any of these positions, send your resume to liftinc@aol.com, and mention the job title in the subject line.

Looking Your Best

2007-02-22T21:23:00.000-05:00

Someone who interviewed me by phone recently for an article thought I was a twentysomething business professional with high heels, gray tailored suit and manicured nails.-Not! But I was flattered just the same. And our subsequent e-mail conversation led to greater development of an article idea she had. I hope she was able to sell it.

I know I don't look like everyone else, and I'm definitely not model or movie star material. My hair has been slowly turning gray since my thirties. (I grew out of the ponytail look with an outfit-complementing scrunchi or scarf. Those four years were fun, because I had never had long hair enough to do that.) I struggle mightily with weight loss, and I dream of hats, jewelry and shopping at Nordstrom. Some pairs of shoes are beautiful, but alas, my feet won't ever fit them because of my disability. Lace-ups it always has been…but I make sure they are polished.

People with disabilities can look attractive and professional. Men and women who have disabilities have unique challenges when it comes to dressing for success. Obviously I'm speaking to women here.

Especially if you are sitting down all day, clothing has to be comfortable, not too tight, restrictive or cumbersome, especially when transferring to different seating surfaces. It's okay to find a tailor to alter items if necessary. Make choices that fit the corporate culture. A suit is professional code, but a suit jacket will do fine if the pants don't fit. Black and white is classic, but you can accessorize with colors of your choice. Browns, creams, reds and any solid jewel tones will also work. Gray is considered professional too. I just never liked it. I read an article long ago about color analysis. If the reader was drawn to the gray circle, that meant they were scared of the outside world. Give me red or purple any day-the colors of leadership and royalty! (I'm also a tie-dye fan, but except for a summer wrap that accents certain outfits, it's inappropriate for work.)

Be mindful of buttons. Those too small or in odd shapes can be difficult to handle. Jewelry should be conservative, and match each other and the outfit. Long necklaces, or those without clasps, might work best, but magnetized chains may get caught on your wheelchair and break. Many people find stretch band watches more convenient for the sake of independence. I've had beautiful bracelets, some handmade, some not. But I've been rough on them in the course of a day, so I stopped wearing them. It's fine to wear hats, but just not on job interviews or when representing your organization.

And the manicured nails? Some people just aren't suited to nail salons. You can cut your nails with a mounted one-handed nail clipper, and polish them yourself or with assistance in the color of your choice. Use makeup that is appropriate and that you feel your best in. If eye shadow or mascara is difficult to apply, don't go there. Although you may have favorite perfumes, go easy or don't wear any. (This also goes for men who use favorite strong colognes or aftershave.) Your co-workers may have chemical sensitivities, allergies or asthma. Be considerate.

But going around with head held high and shoulders back, with a warm and enthusiastic smile and manner with everyone, also gets you noticed and remembered.

Let's Hear It for Levenger!

2007-02-22T21:18:00.000-05:00

Levenger opened a store in a mall near my home. "It's like my old catalog came to life!" I told my aunt later, absolutely thrilled with my new purchase: Samuel Johnson's Dictionary. She just shook her head and tsked tsked at the current price for hardback books. Well, why not? I checked it out of the public library three times. I love the poetic entries and kept coming back to them. So I decided to buy it for myself to read at leisure. (I always have at least six books going at once. People think I'm odd, but that's the way I've always been.) One day I will read Thomas Boswell's The Life of Samuel Johnson and Levenger CEO Steve Leveen's The Little Guide to Your Well-Read Life, which a couple of people in various book groups suggested reading.

Levenger has been one of my favorite catalogs for years. I spent quite a few minutes admiring everything in the store, and for the most part I could navigate the aisles. The store also sold a lot of things with cartoons from The New Yorker, which reminded me of a former co-worker and our shared longtime interest in the magazine. I still have a very durable accordion file of many colors that is useful, and my oak editor's desk has been great for reference books and more than a few proofreading projects. I still have the cobalt-blue fountain pen (with matching blue ink!) that my aunt gave me for Christmas one year, but it was too difficult to hold while writing. All these years later, I still haven't given up on using it. Luckily I didn't have a case of leather binder envy.

Many of the items are for high-powered CEOs and other executives' offices. At this late date I won't attain that professional stature, but Levenger always makes you feel like you are there already.

You Know It's Going to Be a Weird Day When...

2007-02-22T21:09:00.000-05:00

The clock on your computer is an hour slow.
You think it's Friday, but then realize it's only Thursday.

You wake up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed at 6:00 am, only to realize it's three in the morning…and you can't go back to sleep.

You ride past your subway stop because you just had to finish that really great chapter. Be happy for a good-weather day. You will have a great walk (or roll) to your office!

The paratransit driver stops at the back end of your building and you are at the front-right where you said you would be. And you are left behind. You call to complain.

The bus driver insists that there's no lift on the bus, although an international access symbol is in plain sight. You disagree, and tell him so. He looks even more confused, and then he says another bus will be along in a moment. After he closes the door and drives away, you sigh, open your book and call the complaint line when you arrive at work.

You find that your cell phone screen has a scratch on it. (Hey, at least the phone still works.)

You discover that the tilt feature on your power chair is broken, and you call the repair company. Busy with other things, you vaguely wonder why no one has phoned. A week later, you discover the message on your cell phone, which you never use unless traveling. You call back twice, don't hear anything, and suddenly the repairman shows up one day and fixes the problems. (Hooray!) Go figure.

Your computer freezes for the fifth time in one day. (What else to do but to reboot?)

You realize you lost your cell phone, house keys, credit card and a favorite bookmark all in one week. No worries…they were just all in different places.

Answer the phone and forget your name, who the person on the other end is and why you called that person in the first place.

But things will be fine….

New IT Recruiting: Programming, Web Development, Etc.

2007-02-21T23:20:00.000-05:00

Good luck, everyone!

New Jersey, New York - Programmer/Analysts - A Fortune 100 client seeks dynamic recent college graduates for unique entry-level positions in programming-analysis. Applicants selected will build technical, business and management skills while working with one of the nation’s leading corporations. Excellent communications skills are a must.

New Jersey - Web Programmer/Developer - A firm specializing in the telecommunications industry seeks an experienced web developer for a long-term consulting position. A great place to work.

Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina - WebSphere Specialist - Work with state of the art technology in a strong team environment. The candidate selected will provide technical support via phone and electronic updates. Applicants should demonstrate exceptional analytical and interpersonal skills and be eager to learn. Preferred technical skills (can be taught): WebSphere, relational database, JAVA, Distributed Op Sys.

Rochester, Minnesota - Financial Analysts - Entry-level positions for recent college graduates eager to begin exciting careers with one of the world’s leading corporations. Degrees in finance, economics, or business administration.

If interested in any of these positions, send your resume to liftinc@aol.com, and mention the job title in the subject line.

Revving Up Resolutions

2007-01-05T21:34:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! It's time to start over. Display and use the brand new calendars and journals with inspirational messages. Fill them up completely. Listen to music and read a few good books. Decide on the places you want to go and people to visit with, write to or call-then do all of them. Especially if you work in a home office several times a week, schedule time to be outdoors for a few minutes each day, and spend longer time on weekends. Most of all, keep all health-related goals. They are more important than anything else, and they will pay off down the road a million times over.

OK, that was everyday life. What about working life? Every year, separate from performance reviews, it's a good idea for all workers to take stock of performance, training goals, dream work projects, equipment they need or taking another step to where they want to be professionally. Sometimes it's a combination of all these.

Where then, to begin? Always start with a written list. (It's very valuable to list accomplishments for the year. It encourages you and lets you know strengths and weaknesses.) Be careful of overloading it, or "To Dream the Impossible Dream" will be playing constantly in your head. One year, 20 items were on my resolutions list. Another year, I narrowed it to seven, but I didn't accomplish much then either. Now I only list three specific and measurable goals, and make time for them each day. Sometimes, even three items need their own separate pages for brainstorming and planning, checking off each item when completed.

But life happens….Having to skip a day doesn't mean failure; it just means you redouble efforts the following days. And even though it can be very difficult at times, keeping a positive attitude accomplishes a lot. It's always important to be happy about what has already been accomplished. Don't give up. As a boss always reminded me: "Angels can fly because they take themselves lightly."

Save the Date! IBM Networking and Information Sessions, Alexandria, VA

2006-12-21T11:43:00.000-05:00

Take a deep breath, put your best foot forward and have fun! Lift, Inc.'s longtime corporate client, IBM, will be hosting an invitation-only networking session for IT professionals who have minority backgrounds or disabilities on Friday, February 2, 2007, from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. IBM is hiring in Global Business Services, Sales & Distribution, and other divisions. A limited number of invitations are available. Lift staff invites interested, experienced IT professionals who have disabilities to send resumes for consideration. Please RSVP to PView@lift-inc.org. More information will arrive soon about the location.

Making Job Fairs Work for You

2006-12-04T12:22:00.000-05:00

Job fairs are typically crowded events. Even though you've planned well, arrive early and have an elevator speech and résumés ready, the experience may not be the best job search experience. Here's how to make them successful:

1) Attend only industry-specific job fairs that offer your targeted positions.
2) Talk to as many recruiters as possible, but really try to make contact with five favorites to focus your company research, questions, etc.
3) Come with a flexible but positive attitude.
4) Relax, but don't spend too much time on the sidelines.

Give Me Some Java--Code, Not Coffee

2006-12-04T12:16:00.000-05:00

Computer skills certainly will continue to be in demand. If you are aiming for high-level programming, the basic programs are necessary. Requirements differ with each employer. One needed application is Java-the language along with HTML 4.0 that drives many Web pages and applications. Learning any programming language takes time. But even while you are looking for a job, read, practice and study in new areas so you'll be ahead of the curve.

Thoughts about Recruiting

2006-12-02T23:36:00.000-05:00

I had some experience a few years back with interviewing college students who have disabilities. This was fun, and I got to meet many motivated young men and women with a variety of skills and talents. Almost all were very confident (if they weren't, they hid it extremely well). I love helping people to succeed. It is so easy to become everyone's cheerleader, because you know the job hunt is so challenging. However, this has to be tempered with a hard look at what the individual offers the organization.

Here are a few things I remember from my brief time as a recruiter:

1) Most of the students were active in social clubs and an outside job in addition to their classes, which demonstrated diverse, positive interests and an ability to multitask.

2) The students had definite career goals. They were prepared and professional. They gave focused answers. I had to eliminate those few who were not.

3) Quite a few of the individuals filled out application forms in handwriting or printing, when typewritten is the norm. I told everyone this. One person so impressed me that I requested that he type the form. We talked about it at length. He did so, and sent me a very nice thank you letter with the application. And yes-I cheered when he found a job.

4) One individual requested a specific type of chair well before the interview. Because of the nature of the person's disability, that chair would help with balance. Arriving at the interview room, we found the chair was not there. People need to be comfortable, so together we found one. Once the matter was settled, we finished up a great interview.

5) Several applicants were deaf or hard of hearing. Communication was no problem. For the person who could lip-read, I made sure I spoke clearly, naturally and directly, at proper volume and without putting my hand over my mouth. Occasionally we wrote things down.

For the person who used a sign language interpreter, I faced the applicant and the interpreter across the table. The applicant and I chatted very naturally about his field, accomplishments and career path. I did not talk with the interpreter at all during the interview, which is the proper approach.

6) I also interviewed someone with severe cerebral palsy who was assisted by a family member. The applicant was a 4.0 GPA math major-a senior-who loved Web design and showed much enthusiasm for it. This person had no work experience because of many mobility and speech challenges. During the interview my boss encouraged investigating augmentative communication to facilitate conversation with others. This individual eventually found opportunities and a way to develop skills more. Creativity is helpful all around-both for the applicant to develop work experiences and for employers to find a fit for the person. There's more than one way to look at things.

Coping with a Prolonged Job Search

2006-11-10T20:22:00.000-05:00

The letter to the editor in "Close to Home" on Sunday, October 29, 2006 was called "Why No One Will Hire Me." The man, a recent amputee from cancer who is very mobile and can drive, was understandably frustrated that after being laid off from his writing and editing job at an association, he has now spent a year looking for work, applying for posted jobs online and in the paper. He told a familiar story: highly qualified with years of experience, excellent clips, good phone impression, pleasant meetings and good interviews with company reps, although people are surprised to see his cane and limp. He brings up his disability himself to assure interviewers he can do the job well. But then someone else gets the job. "That's just the way it is," he says. We've all been there.

That doesn't mean, however, that jobseekers who have disabilities should ever give up or become resigned to "the way it is." Many factors could be influencing hiring decisions that the applicant has no control over. And it is terribly difficult to keep spirits up when life isn't going the greatest. But you must do it-somehow. People adjust to change differently, and at their own rates. Find trustworthy people to lean on. You know who they are.

If something hasn't worked in a job search, try something different. Analyze in depth what's working and not working, and repackage "brand you." Networking is an overused, calculating word for plain old conversation. Just talk to people about everyday things and experiences. Slip in at opportune moments that you are looking for a job. Maybe volunteering in a nonprofessional capacity would raise spirits. Perhaps working as a contractor for a former employer would be a temporary solution. Don't keep rejection letters. They don't help you move ahead.

Talking about disability is tough. I learned to say, "I'll work with you during this process on reasonable accommodations" but didn't elaborate on them during the first interview. Perhaps it's better to also include: "Do you have any questions for me about how I will handle specific job tasks?"

The letter writer talked about the warm smiles of his interviewers, yet still sensed their pity. Maybe they felt that way, or maybe not. During times when we meet with these reactions, the important thing is never to pity ourselves.

Easy answers don't exist. Everybody faces different situations. No one is a "one size fits all" person. Sometimes the best you can do is to keep the faith, one day at a time, and keep trying. Put your current, best "you" forward at all times, whatever you are doing.

Lessons from Google

2006-11-04T19:55:00.000-05:00

Much has been written about Google's unique and creative, yet hard-driving corporate culture that has produced many innovations. I admired their campaign for new workers a couple of years ago, on the Google site, in magazines and subway signs and billboards (http://www.marketingvox.com/archives/2004/07/09/mysterious_billboard_may_be_google_recruitment_ad/). The ad read something like: "If you can solve this, we want to talk with you." A high-level math equation was included, or sometimes just appeared alone. The curious investigated further.

A recent Washington Post article ("Building a 'Googley' Workforce: Corporate Culture Breeds Innovation" by Sara Kehaulani Goo, p. D01, October 21, 2006) asked the question: "Are you 'Googley' enough?" I thought aspiring and current IT pros (and all workers and jobseekers) would benefit from some of the examples the article contained. My reactions are in purple.

1) At Google, employees are expected to spend 20 percent of time on their own projects and ideas in addition to their regular jobs. While some have ended up as Google products, many more have failed. The thinking is that if you haven't failed, you're not trying hard enough.

So always keep trying different approaches, even though they seem odd and don't work. You never know when something will work. To quote many a motivational sign: "Be fearless!"

2) Google's application process is rigorous. Underachievers don't fit in very well.

State challenges in positive terms, and demonstrate ways you're overcoming them. If recruiters are antagonistic about a perceived lack of experience, don't give up or shrink back because of recruiting attitudes. State how you would solve hypothetical problems and how you will fill in educational gaps later.

3) Google has whiteboards in hallways so people can jot down ideas, figure out a pesky coding challenge, or whatever. Not to mention puzzles and quizzes to keep your brain sharp.

Keep notebooks when ideas strike, referring to them later. It might be valuable later if you are asked to be project leader.

Jobseekers and workers who have disabilities are highly creative in their specific specialties and their approaches to life. We learn quickly that there's more than one way to accomplish something or to figure something out, and we won't give up. We're good planners because we must be. We bring many things to organizations.

Employers would love to have workers with these qualities on their teams.

Thoughts on Mentoring

2006-10-28T13:30:00.000-04:00

October 18, 2006 was Disability Mentoring Day, sponsored by the American Association of People with Disabilities. October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, where jobseekers and career changers who have disabilities job-shadow people already in the fields where they want to be--but only for a day. It's also a recruitment tool for the companies and a way for jobseekers to have a first look at a potential employer.

I have attended one Disability Mentoring Day and had several formal mentoring experiences. My DMD experience taught me a few tips about writing Web copy. My former employer's mentoring program helped me clarify future career goals. Since I was thinking about applying for a professional publishing program at George Washington University (and eventually did so, earning the certificate), my mentor gave me some practice editing and writing newsletter articles. Another employer effort kept me on track in an upward mobility program.

Later on through a job-hunting group, the recruiter I was matched with showed me that I did indeed have a range of work in my portfolio. He helped me to organize it and then gave me an assignment--volunteer assistant newsletter editor for a three-day HR conference. (I saved my press pass for several years.) I attended all sessions, not just the one on disability.

Here are some quick thoughts for making future Disability Mentoring Day activities even better:

1) Expand the event to two days or more and rename it. Cut out the disability awareness videos and the company presentations during lunch. Those of us who have disabilities have seen and heard it all before, from the "Ten Commandments" video to the classic and hilarious (but outdated) "A Different Approach," featuring a then-unknown Michael Keaton. Distribute information packets and let us talk more.

2) Make employee participation in the event required, because there are always more participants with wide-ranging interests than mentors. Match people early, and encourage mentor and mentee pairs to communicate well before the event, perhaps working on a small project to review later. It's not enough to observe during meetings. The Day moves at lightning speed.

3) Mentees need to think carefully about their goals so they can be matched well. Be specific. Don't be afraid to contact that person again for assistance if he or she was helpful. Don't wait to reconnect.

With all these positive experiences that mentoring brings, you don't always need a formal program to find mentors or grow in a career. But in science and tech careers, mentors are crucial. After you've been at an organization for a while, you know who is receptive to questions from newbies, as long as they are asked in a non-intrusive, conversational, curious and ready-to- learn way. Great supervisors mentor in this way and by example. It's the same with co-workers. Make the choice to learn from everyone and every experience. And some things you must learn for yourself.

Of Job Openings, Query Letters and Applications

2006-10-25T14:37:00.000-04:00

Hey, everybody! Check out these new career opportunities at www.lift-inc.org/featured/Openings.html. Here's a longer version of the California job, and another one in Austin, Texas. Good luck to all applicants!

Lift, Inc. (www.lift-inc.org) has recently developed an exciting new opening for a software engineer to work with one of the world's leading corporations.

San Jose, California -- The position involves evaluation, troubleshooting and analysis in a strong team environment. The individual selected will work closely with customer management and technical support personnel, IMS management and other product teams, and will be responsible for driving team activities such as causal analysis, process analysis and defect prevention. Foreign language skills are a plus. A bachelor's degree or equivalent experience is required.

The position requires knowledge of the following:

Z/OS, and or OS 390 Operating System
Information Management System (IMS)

Austin, Texas: WebSphere Specialist -- This is another exciting opportunity to work with state-of-the-art technology in a strong team environment. The candidate chosen will provide technical support via phone and electronic updates, and must demonstrate exceptional problem-solving and interpersonal skills. Preferred technical skills (can be taught): WebSphere, relational database, JAVA, Distributed Op Sys.

For further information, to make referrals or to apply, contact Liftinc@aol.com.

Lift, Inc. is an award-winning national nonprofit corporation that trains, hires and places information technology specialists who have physical disabilities.

Reflections on query letters and applications: Like anyone else, I've written and agonized over a ton of application materials throughout my career--probably killing a few trees before e-applying became the norm. Here is the wisdom I have collected over the years:

Keep it brief (no more than one page). Concentrate on your skills and be confident. Use everyday phrasing, but be professional. Rewrite if you have to.

In the cyberspace age, it's easy to become informal. But in a cover letter, don't. Use Mr. or Ms. Usually the hiring manager is not someone you know well.

Don't address disability AT ALL in a cover letter. Know how and when to disclose and how to ask for accommodations. Let employers see what you can offer them.

We all make spelling errors from time to time. But if you describe yourself as "detail oriented" in a cover letter, and your cover note and resume have typos, you've lost that opportunity.

Greetings and Welcome to the Lift, Inc. Blog!

2006-10-01T20:15:00.000-04:00

Hi!

I'm Carrie Smoot, the Christopher Reeve Intern for communications and outreach for Lift, Inc. (www.lift-inc.org), a national, nonprofit corporation that combines information technology training and placement with corporate clients for men and women who have significant disabilities. I have always thought that computers are cool tools. Occasionally I've written about them. I enjoy learning about gadgets, assistive technology and everything else in between.

I hope this will be an informative resource for everyone about technology, employment and disability, perhaps reframing everyone's thinking. I'd like people to see that we who have significant disabilities are just like anyone else. We're not "supercrips," "overcomers" or miracles. Riding the subway every day is not heroic.

Most of all, we expect to work in challenging positions with competitive salaries and the ability to move up. We aim high and want more than entry-level opportunities or call center employment. And we will work to get there. All of us want to contribute and participate in life in meaningful ways. National Disability Employment Awareness Month begins today, but of course it should be observed all year. A great place to start learning about disability employment issues is the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy.

A career is a lifetime journey. No matter what paths you choose, information technology and personal computers will play a large role in your position. Look way beyond disability issues and stay curious about everything. Lifelong learning is a must, and it's fun! But through it all, love what you do. Build positive relationships with everyone and be happy. Remember that your work is what you do, and not who you are.

If you love tinkering with your own computer or building one from scratch, and can't get enough of Java, HTML, SQL Server, C++, VisualBasic or QBasic, you already know IT is for you. It's a telltale sign of an excellent fit if your favorite reading material is about programming languages and you belong to a systems architecture book discussion group. But information technology isn't just about working with machines, code and data. It's about working with people--people who need the reports your data generates, or who need advice about what data they need to collect to make critical business decisions. Organizations want to know how to create those stunning, convemient and useful Web sites that everyone goes back to again and again. Teammates need your help when their computers have frozen or something doesn't work. It's up to you to keep everything humming. There are so many options.

Deep in your heart, if you know that working with code, data and daily new challenges would frustrate you, consider another career.