5.0 out of 5 stars
I am living proof that this book really works!, 30 Aug 1999
By A Customer
This review is from: High-tech Careers for Low-tech People (Paperback)
I read the book, "High-Tech Careers For Low-Tech People," and I was also fortunate enough to meet Mr. William Schaffer at a seminar he did at the Career Action Center in Cupertino, California. I was really in a bind because I was a victim of the BofA/NationsBank merger and I was on the street looking for a job. It's really amazing. I've been a resident in Silicon Valley for over 25 years and I never thought of looking for employment with the high-tech companies because I didn't have a technical background. Mr. Schaffer's book changed all of that. It showed me how I could take my 13 years of banking industry experience and convert it into the high-tech field. This book is an excellent roadmap because it takes the mystery out of high-tech and indentifies the low-tech career paths that are available. THANK YOU Mr. Schaffer for changing my life and opening my eyes to the remarkable careers available in high-tech for low-tech people like myself. In less than three weeks after reading your book and attending your seminar, I had two high-tech companies fighting over me. Now I don't have to fear unemployment ever again because you have given me the tools to ensure my future.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great help for people who might be intimidated by High Tech!, 29 July 1999
By A Customer
This review is from: High-tech Careers for Low-tech People (Paperback)
I read "High Tech Jobs for Low Tech People" near the start of my job search. I want to change industries, and there is a lot of growth in High Tech near me. I was somewhat frustrated by the use of on-line job searches, where you send in a resume electronically and get an electronic response. Job fairs seemed even worse, because although I had been a vice president of operations in a healthcare company, the recruiters felt I had no skills they could use. Mr. Schaffer's book convinced me that I was getting a typical response to these approaches, and reinvigorated my search. By the time I completed his book, I had two informational interviews with target companies, and a plan to try temping to get in the door. I have a much better idea of what I can expect, and how to hopefully convince people to give me a try. The resume examples were helpful, reinforcing how to highlight skills rather than inappropriate job history. I think any low tech person would benefit from this book, as well as new college graduates.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
5.0 out of 5 stars
The Shape of Things to Come, 6 July 1999
By A Customer
This review is from: High-tech Careers for Low-tech People (Paperback)
This first-rate career guide answers the question "can a person without engineering, computer programming, WEB-design, or other "high-tech" skills or education obtain and enjoy a successful career in high tech.?" I highly recommend it to anyone currently (or planning to be) involved in a job search, career transition, or education process leading to a career, whether or not your interest is in high-tech.
The book is humorous, factual, and rich in actual interviews with dozens of persons from all fields that have made the successful transition, and there is a great chapter which outlines (in just about the right amount of detail) some of the more common career positions available in most high-tech firms. It also offers one of the best sections I have ever read on how to survive a corporate reorganization and keep your skills (and job) viable in a fast moving employment environment. Also of critical importance to would-be high-tech workers is a chapter on the high-tech culture. I reviewed this section with a friend who has been in high-tech for almost 15 years, and he feels that this chapter reflected the essential elements of high-tech culture perfectly....
This book is fairly tactical, and Bill Schaffer assumes that the reader has already gone through some process of considering their goals and/or basic career strategy to move into high-tech. However, his tactics for obtaining and enjoying a successful career in high-tech illustrate an insightful parallel message that EVERYONE in the work force needs to consider: that the economic engine of the US is rapidly changing, and that change is being ushered in by high-tech firms. This is a strategic reality that is here to stay, and whatever direction your career is currently taking you, you should at least be aware of this reality and how it might impact your job in the future.
A great career book by a solid career-counseling professional and genuine member of the high-tech workforce!
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No