Speaking Volumes

I’ve never considered myself a fan of the myriad of programs known as Reality TV.  Survivor, Dancing with the Stars, Fear Factor, The Apprentice, Project Runway, and even the ever popular American Idol, leave me cold. It’s beyond me why some tv stations are actually devoted entirely to reality show. So how come I'm hooked on a hokey program recently being aired by ABC called Undercover Boss? Like many other American viewers, Sunday evenings find me glued to the next installment of this somewhat sappy look at CEO's of Corporate America who go undercover to see what's it's like to work and get paid like the little people in their companies. I love the concept.  Imagine CEO's packing boxes, loading trucks, making the donuts, doing what it takes to do the job. The stories the bosses hear from real employees in this docudrama are heartwarming and personal and yes, bring a tear to my eyes at times. Most CEO’s are impressed by the dedication shown by their hard working employees and for me, this is what makes the show. Michael Rubin, CEO of billion dollar e-commerce giant, GSI, got more than he bargained for when he was actually fired for not being able to perform the job that many in his company do on a daily basis. Episodes either already aired or planned include Waste Management (Larry O'Donnell, President and C.O.O.), 7-Eleven (Joseph M. DePinto, President and C.E.O.), Hooters (Coby G. Brooks, President and C.E.O.), White Castle (Dave Rife, Owner/Executive Board Member) and Churchill Downs (William C. Carstanjen, C.O.O.).
 
Even CEO's who are not featured on Undercover Boss can learn a thing or two by getting down and dirty with their employees. Push those chairs back, get out from behind their desks, and walk in your employees shoes. Somehow though, I doubt many CEO's are home Sunday nights watching Undercover Boss. Too bad! It could be an eye opener.
 
If you’re in the market for a new job the library has lots of resources to help with your search. Books on resumes, interviews, changing careers, etc. can all be found on our shelves. Online help is just a click away at JobNow, live job assistance for Connecticut residents. Click on the link above or visit our home page at www.columbiactlibrary.org
 


Here are just a couple of books you’ll find on our shelves…


I want to do something else but I'm not sure what it is/ Ron and Caryl Krannich.

The 2009 what color is your parachute?: a practical manual for job-hunters and career-changers / by Richard Nelson Bolles.
 
Jobs People DoChristopher Maynard

and for inspiration, here’s a couple about real people in real jobs:
 
WaitressDVD
Norma Rae DVD
Shopgirl

Emily ever after/ Anne Dayton
The Devil wears Prada/ Lauren Weisberger.
The Dead End Job Mysteries by Elaine Viets