All Articles Tagged "economy"
The Good and The Bad of Becoming My Own Boss…
It’s not the sort of reaction you expect when you tell your friend you’ve been laid off, but I guess it made a lot of sense: “Congratulations! This is the best thing that could have happened to you.
“You’ve been dying to leave that company for years. Mazel tov!”
She was right. Yes, I was unhappy at work for what seemed like forever. Although no one else had said it so bluntly, the general consensus among family and friends was that getting laid off from my job was a good thing. Now I could go into business for myself and become a full-time freelance writer.
All my life I had been told to study hard and get an education so I could get a good job. Now even my mother was encouraging me to become my own boss – writing and selling features to newspapers and magazines around the world, effectively becoming my own news agency.
But that was easier said than done. Working out taxes and payroll, getting acquainted with LLCs, S-Corps and Quick Books has made my head hurt. In the month since I launched my company – Marissa Charles Media – I have mostly learned my lessons the hard way. Here is a list of things the Universe has brought to my attention:
I can’t do it all
Yep. That’s right. I am merely a writer. I say that with genuine humility. I was put on this earth to tell the stories of others and I’m blessed that I have been able to earn a living doing that for more than 12 years.
What I am NOT is an accountant, web designer, lawyer and IT expert. But when I started this business I tried to take on most of those roles with gusto.
Part of being your own boss is realizing your limitations. If you don’t know something, find someone who does.
Looking back, I cannot believe I even thought I could design my own website. Seriously? In the end, finding someone who could tinker away on it while I did other things, was the best decision I ever made and the result speaks for itself.
What Exactly Makes Something… “Ghetto”?
As I look up the word “ghetto” in the dictionary, I find an array of meanings. For instance, according to Merriam-Webster, a ghetto is:
- a quarter of a city in which Jews were formerly required to live.
- a quarter of a city in which members of a minority group live especially because of social, legal, or economic pressure.
- an isolated group; a situation that resembles a ghetto especially in conferring inferior status or limiting opportunity.
Maybe it has to something to do with that last two interpretations (do ONLY minorites live in the ghetto by the way?), but when I look at these random definitions of ghetto, I don’t understand the way the term is being used out in the streets on a daily basis. Or specifically, the way I saw it used the other day. While trolling on Facebook at the end of the night just to see what people were up to/talking about, a former classmate from elementary school and high school was telling the world about a major annoyance that occurred during her day. That’s cool, people vent on Facebook pretty often. However, her comment was so random to me that it bothered me for the rest of that evening. The young woman said something to the effect of, “Why are these preppy girls acting ghetto during my lunch break singing “Bug A Boo” by Destiny’s Child?” And yes, she was white.
Hmmmm.
Maybe I needed to be there. She didn’t go into details about the encounter, but from the sound of it, because they made the choice to sing out loud, and maybe even because it was “Bugaboo” (and not some Adele), they were behaving in the way it’s assumed folks from the actual ghetto behave. Perhaps it was because she was a white woman, who like me (a black chick), grew up in the suburbs and probably hadn’t ever really had to encounter a ghetto of any kind, maybe that’s why it bothered me so much. But either way, her statement literally brought out one of those horrendously long eye-roll moments.
I think it bothered me so much because ever since college (I went to a predominately black high school in an area hit with “white flight”), I’ve heard a wealth of young white women and men I wasn’t highly exposed to before use the term ghetto to describe people who are black, or non-blacks who have an appreciation for black culture and the likes. Saying that something or someone is ghetto with a negative connotation attached implies that folks who live in ghettos all tend to act a certain way–a negative way. Especially when you throw up that eyebrow, curl your lip and say it with such passion. It has become clear that I’m not the only person who has noticed this trend (remember “Ish White Girls Say to Black Girls”? That was one of them.) Really, what exactly does the chicks singing “Bug A Boo” have to do with people growing up in a place of inferior opportunity or of social, economic and legal pressures? Fill me in if you get it because I just don’t.
Tags:
class, economy, ghetto, Hollywood, language, Madame Noire, neighborhoods, speech, The Real World, womenWhy are blacks being shunned in the job market?
A few months ago, an estimated 5,000 unemployed souls braved the unrelenting, Dirty-South to attend a job fair in Atlanta where ninety companies were reportedly present. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national unemployment rate is 8.6 percent.
The black unemployment rate is nearly double at 15.5 percent, down from 16 percent in October – this includes 17 percent for black men, 13.8 percent for black women, and (gulp)… 39.9 percent for black teens.
Remember the unemployment rate doesn’t take into account those individuals who are either underemployed or have conceded rejection. So, in reality, black joblessness is somewhere along the lines of 30 percent. Why are so many African-Americans being shunned from full-time employment?
What do employers see or not see in us?
What’s our motivation for trying to embark upon a new career when every statistical number says blacks are being ignored in the job market?
“You got children, you got kids, you got bills,” said Derric Clayton, a former security guard with three children whose been seeking work since May. “You’ve got to stay somewhere. You don’t want to be homeless.”
In giving reasons for non-hire, a Chicago-based employer let the cat out the bag recently by citing a plethora of racial stereotypes in describing blacks as “uneducated,” “unskilled,” “unstable,” “illiterate,” “dishonest,” “lack initiative,” “unmotivated,” “involved with gangs and drugs,” “don’t understand work,” “lack charm,” “have no family values,” and are “poor role models.”
Now, those of us with common sense understand such racial stereotypes are completely untrue.
After all, the job market is saturated with legions of intelligent African-Americans equipped with college degrees and ample work experience. Still, perception is typically construed as reality. To bring about positive economic change, it’s imperative we take the steps necessary to invert our professional reputation.
We can start the correction process by condemning commercial forces that advocate and profit from the perilous sale of gangsta rap, misogyny, excess tattoos and all other filth counterproductive to landing gainful employment.
In addition to the aforementioned stereotypes, we can’t underestimate the rising economic power associated with globalization and outsourcing. With so many jobs being shipped overseas, labor intensive positions that once paid $20 per hour are now offering only $10. Without a college education, it’s very difficult to secure above average wages.
Compounding matters is the disturbing fact black dropout rates have skyrocketed in recent years while college enrollment has subsequently descended; specifically in the case of black men.
If morale isn’t low enough, studies have shown African-Americans equipped with college degrees are hired at a far lower rate than their white counterparts; regardless of GPA and/or experience.
Then there’s the theory claiming some employers simply refuse to interview candidates with black-sounding names. Imagine that? The Tyrones, Chiquitas and Alfonsos of the world don’t stand a chance.
High prison rates among people of color have played an even bigger role in the decimation of Black America as ex-convicts receive no love from employers.
Smooth Operator: Could You Be a Phone Sex Worker?
Side hustles are a must these days and stay-at-home mothers are earning extra cash in a surprising way—as phone sex operators. “The View” talked about the growing trend last Thursday, based on a segment Elizabeth Hasslebeck did for “Good Morning America.” The report found that the number of stay-at-home moms becoming phone sex operators has increased 400% in the last 18 months. Why? Because it’s steady pay, the benefits are good, and the economy sucks.
A friend of mine worked as a phone sex operator when she moved to a new city. She’s not a stay-at-home mother, but she needed income while she was searching for a 9-to-5, and for a job whose only prerequisite is that you own a landline and know how to put on an act—which most women say they do anyway—she didn’t mind bringing in money from the down-low job.
The most awkward thing for her wasn’t moaning and role playing on the phone because from her experience, most men really just wanted to talk (so sad). She only ran into problems when people wondered what she did for a living and she would have the deer-in-the-headlights look on her face until she finally started telling people she worked in the service industry. Unfortunately, getting up at 3:30 am to put on a sexy voice for the late-night west coasters in need of lip service proved difficult for her and she had to find another occupation. But overall the money was good while it lasted and she didn’t feel any personal shame about it, she just didn’t want to deal with other people’s judgment.
Most stay-at-home moms seem to have the same mindset, from what Elizabeth said: judge me if you want, but I’m making money while spending time with my kids. Some mothers say they keep their side job under wraps for fear of other mothers’ reactions, as some women who were surveyed said they wouldn’t let their child go over the home of a mother she knew worked as a phone sex operator. Sherri Shepherd agreed, and said she wouldn’t trust her child in that situation:“It’s my job to protect my child and that I wouldn’t want him exposed to.”
The biggest shocker of all was Whoopi Goldberg admitting that she used to work as a phone sex operator—-I know, I can’t picture it either—-but it makes sense when you think about it from Whoopi’s perspective. According to her, all the job is is good acting.
I definitely wouldn’t want my children listening to his play mate’s mother talking nasty to some lonely, horny man on the phone, but I wouldn’t say that they couldn’t ever go over the person’s house. Being a phone sex worker may be an odd job that I’m not sure I could pull off, but when it comes to making money legally and supporting your family, I say to each her own.
Have you ever considered being a phone sex operator to earn extra cash? Would you allow your kids to visit the home of a woman who you knew worked as a phone sex operator?
Brande Victorian is a blogger and culture writer in New York City. Follower her on Twitter at @be_vic.
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We’re Not Putting Rings On It: U.S. Marriage Rate is at All-Time Low
With so much stigma placed on single ladies–and men–it’s hard to believe only 51% of Americans over the age of 18 are married today, according to an analysis of census data by the Pew Research Center.
That number is the lowest in recorded history—down 7% from 2000 and 21% from 1960 when 72% of Americans were married. It’s expected that within just a few years, the societal norm will flip and married people will become the minority.
When you look at the economy, which is the biggest factor behind the decline, the trend makes sense. When the country was in a recession, wedded rates dropped 5% from 2009-2010, with the biggest decline—13%—seen among adults 18-24 years old. Between outsourcing, the overall increase in unemployment, and the decline of government and health benefits, it’s not surprising people are more cautious to jump the broom.
“This trend reflects the changing labor market that young adults face,” says Andrew Cherlin, a sociology professor at Johns Hopkins University. Single people “think that you shouldn’t get married until you’re positive that you can make a go of it financially.”
People still desire to have life partners, though, as the study found more couples are living together and having children without getting married. Cohabitation, living alone, and single parenthood have all grown more prevalent.
But what sounds a bit sour now to us now could be sweet in the long run, according to Clair Brown, an economics and public policy professor at the University of California at Berkeley. She says sociological trends are often beneficial for the economy and people who stay in school longer and wait to have children get better jobs and have more mature relationships. That is definitely good news.
Has your desire to get married declined with the United States’ economy? Have you put off plans to get married until things get better financially? Do you think married people will eventually become the minority in the U.S.?
Brande Victorian is a blogger and culture writer in New York City. Follower her on Twitter at @be_vic.
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HBCUs Could Lose More Than $20 million Per Year in Cuts
When the congressional super committee charged with reducing America’s deficit failed to reach an agreement on what cuts should be made in 2013, some assumed HBCUs, of which their presidents and supporters warned were being targeted, were off the hook. But an article on The Root says not so fast.
Unless a new deal is struck, Historically Black Colleges and Universities could still lose more than $20 million per year in federal support through across-the-board cuts, or they could lose as much as $85 million per year through the normal appropriations process.
“This needs to go at the top of the ‘Must do — now!’ list of everyone who cares about HBCUs,” Michael Lomax wrote in his editorial, encouraging supporters to make their local congressional leaders accountable to the members of their jurisdiction who care about this issue.
Citing the more than 47,000 college graduates produced by HBCUs each year, the 180,000 jobs HBCUs represent, and their $13 billion dollar impact to the nation’s economy, Lomax says this is not the time for the government to back out on its long-standing support of these institutions, particularly as minorities grow in this country.
But do people—specifically the people in power—still want to support HBCUs? Some still hold the view that these institutions promote segregation and question the need for them now that America has become so “racially integrated,” others cite poor graduation rates as proof that HBCUs aren’t serving its students. Unless HBCUs receive large endowments from private parties, it seems unlikely that they won’t at least have to swallow the $20 million losses, further restricting their resources and their ability to adequately prepare its graduates for the work force. And then what will that do to representation of African Americans in the work place?
Do you support HBCUs? Do you believe they are a necessary part of the education system? Do you think the government will eventually try to phase out HBCUs by weaning federal support?
Brande Victorian is a blogger and culture writer in New York City. Follower her on Twitter at @be_vic.
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black graduates, Congress, deficit, economy, federal support, HBCUs, super committee, the root3 Ways to Downsize this Christmas (Without Freaking Your Kids Out)
Presented By:
Tis the season to be…broke! Yes, it’s the most wonderful time of the year, the time when parents all over the world feel immense pressure to get the flyest toys for their children at the expense of their wallet and sometimes their sanity. But this year is a little bit different. The economy is struggling and you simply can’t afford to splurge on extravagant gifts.
So it’s time to come up with a plan. How do you cut back this Christmas without having to look at disgruntled little faces on Christmas morning?
Buy 1-2 Big Items
Instead of spending tons of dough on seven items over $100, cut it to one or two. If your child has been pestering you for an iPad for the past year and a half, go ahead and hook him up. But make sure the rest of his gifts are significantly smaller.
Money for Christmas
Remember how $20 dollars seemed like a whoooole lot of money when you were a child? That’s pretty much the same for kids today. Except you’ll have to up the ante because $20 dollars ain’t what it used to be. If your child is old enough to spend her own money, put that under the tree this year. That way you won’t be tempted to buy more than you can afford, your child can get what they really want this year and throughout the process, they’ll learn the value of money.
Volunteer with/ Donate to the Less Fortunate
Even though money is a little tight around your house, there are still thousands of families living below the poverty level in this country. Make sure your children understand this. Go beyond putting money in the Salvation Army tin and take them to a shelter or a food pantry around the holidays. Not to make them feel guilty for having more but to make them appreciate what they do have.
It’s the Blackest Time of the Year: Surviving Black Friday Shopping
Thanksgiving is tomorrow! And while getting pudgy on that good stuff, laughing with friends and family, and being thankful (yada, yada, yada) is pretty much the most important aspect of your Thursday, we know what your mind will be on once that food is cooked: Black Friday!
Most normal people will probably wait until Friday afternoon to head to overcrowded malls, boutiques and department stores, but the thirsty folks (there’s no shame in your game!) will probably be up bright–make that dark–and early trying to grab some deals. Keep these tips in mind as you get prepared for the second big part of your holiday weekend. Happy shopping!
Top 9 Ways to Impress Your Future Employer
Welcome to the slowest job market in 20 years! If you’re out there trying to find a job, check out the top nine ways to impress your interviewer. These tips come from professional headhunters and popular job posting sites. When it comes to interviews, first impressions are everything, and can be scary. According to the Association for Psychological Science, you only have 1/10 of a second to make your first impression. Lord, the pressure!
UC Davis Human Resources explains that many companies will call to speak with you before even scheduling an interview to “pre-screen” you. Yes, this means that you have already used your 1/10 of a second. However, if you score an interview, then you have clearly already made a good impression, so when you walk into the office, be sure to exude confidence, a smile, and be sure to do a few of these other things as well…
How To Handle Being Fired
In this uncertain economy, being “let go” can be devastating. Losing your job can take a toll on you both financially and emotionally, however, it doesn’t have to be the end of the world. With the right tools, you can overcome this setback and maybe even come out stronger. Here are some suggestions on how to cope with a job loss.
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