What he said:) Seriously, biomass fuels (while good from the POV of regeneration), suck in terms of their power output. Nuclear reactors are the way to go:)
>IMHO, people underestimate the time it takes to become productive in a language. This seems to be particually so with Java
Depends on the language, and the base of experience in implementing different projects. C for instance, if very easy to learn if you're methodical (and have a good sample codebase to imitiate for style, protections etc). Perl is an even easier language to learn since their modules are very well-documented. C++ is more difficult to pick up, and Java is even harder still; however, for java, the problem is not the language is difficult to code; it is that their are many pitfalls in your choice of which library/pattern to use from a performance standpoint (assuming performance-oriented coding of course):) You've also failed to account for natiev intelligence of the person, and sheer interest in the subject (motivation).
Really though, a technical interview (and not code stupid x on the spot w/ pencil and paper) talking about the approach and design methodology of the projects said person will be working on is probably more informative.
I hate HR interviews (which are pointless), or technical interviews where the person has not had a lot of experience in accurately gauging the relevance and depth of an interviewee's background.
Perhaps companies should be a little more general about what they want rather than specific programming languages and start asking for conceptual skills. "Must have experience with an object-oriented language, memory management, traversing tree and graph-like data structures.
---
Definately:) I'ld much rather have someone who's familiar with task assigned [implement x] over someone who's generically-studied a language. Same goes with families of programming languages. The only time I would disagree with your assessment, is that of programming languages where knowledge of libraries [core, or standardized] is important to being able to effectively code.
>You've just shown them that you (a) know it's a setup question
A skill sure to come in handy when you're being interrogated by the SEC:) Really, I find 0 appeal in working for a company that focuses on politics and not work and customer satisfaction.
>(b) demonstrated the ability to think on your feet
I've got a long work history to demonstrate that:) Probably a much better indicator than an interview, IMHO:) SUGGESTION: Ask about the work experience:) Spend less-time with bullshit questions:) And certes, don't ask any that you don't want to hear the answer to from qualified but blunt people:)
>(c) let slip that your idea of a good time is working on learning how to operate high-end software suites
Yeah, like that makes a difference these days. They're not looking for good people; they're looking for just enough to get by and the lowest bid/least likely of leaving in cases of managerial abuse.
I had someone ask me that question once in an interview (CEO of the company); when I told him I didn't think that way [which I don't, since technically anything I'm weak at is pretty much because I'm utterly uninterested in improving it, since it doesn't relate to work requirements or personal interests], he got upset. He insisted I produce some flaw... To wit, I reiterated that I don't really have any (as it relates to work). Didn't get the job (needless to say), but it was definately a fun (engaging) interview:)
-1 Missing The Point. A question like this isn't intended to force you to bullshit. What it does is force the candidate to (hopefully) be honest and own up to a weakness about themselves. A good answer to this question indicates 1) honesty (duh), and 2) self-awareness. ---
Than don't be upset when I answer truthfully, "Don't have any."
1 - Idiots trying to multi-task on shit u shouldn't be multitasking on (driving, movies etc)
2 - The expectation that if you have a cell phone, its ok to call you at odd-times, off-work whatever.
3 - the severe price gouging (cost, economics)that cell phone companies insist on foisting as reasonable, particularly the scummy business practices.
4 - the fact that their are several alternatives that could be developed that are far more useful to solve the problems that people THINK cell phones solve.
Mind you, I'm not a luddite; I do think cell phones [Wireless Services!] have their uses. JUST NOT AS THEY'RE IMPLEMENTED TODAY. TODAY THEY SUCK FROM EVERY ASPECT. Particularly the intrusive nature that cell phones are taking from a LEGAL stand point.
call forwarding? It's hard to forward a number when you don't have one--That's right, I had no number. -- Tart. U had a land-line at some point; have the telco forward the number at the switch. My brother did that with his old landline from another region. Point it to whoever's phone u were staying at.
Number Portability? Yeah, it's coming. It wasn't around 5 years ago. Now I'm looking at moving again, what number am I going to take? --- Right; thats exactly my point. You got a cell phone for that reason (and paid through the nose); It would make FAR MORE SENSE, to have a number portability act, lobbied for by a consumer organization, for land lines, rather than force people who are in your situation to get a cell phone.
and a voluntary directory sounds a whole lot like a junk caller's wet dream-- Not to mention the people that don't have my number don't have it for a reason. -- Execute junk callers. I'ld be willing to support that piece of legislation, in a HEART BEAT. But u missed my more pragmatic solution; that of ACLs (access control lists). That means, since your friends would have an account, and you have an account, u could voluntarily give them access to your (everchanging) information AT WILL.
Not to flame or anything, but cell's have their uses, especially when you don't have a place to hang your hat... -- I didn't find a need to keep in touch past a few minor calls (hey I'm still alive), when I was homeless for a month . Certainly, I had FAR MORE IMPORTANT CONCERNS than a stupid cell phone.
And on that note:) the 6p's:: Proper Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance.
Not to flame or anything:) Anyway, its my personal opinion; I posted to point out that the solution envisioned by you, while technically flawless, leaves ALOT to be desired in the long run. Perhaps if enough consumers back it, we won't be paying through the nose for ridiculously overpriced communication "services".
When I got my cell phone, I was a year into college, and I couldn't find housing-- I ended up couch surfing for six months, followed by living in places for between 1 and 6 months at a time for another two years. If I didn't have a cell phone, I would have had no phone number. ---
Call forwarding.
Now that I'm no longer in college, and I live 300 miles away from that area code, it's the number that everyone knows, and so I don't want to give it up. ---
Number portability, or barring that, some sort of useful way to keep people in touch (VOLUNTARY national directory) with some sort of ACL mechanism.
I suspect another universe. Poses an interesting question; what if the boundary of the universe is nothing more than the region of "space" that can't be traversed.
>full medical/dental and free room and board I got free room and board at the 'rents. Medical and dental is an HMO, correct? You also use, preferentially military doctors, correct?
>When I was at sea my expenses were zero. At the expense of being able to leave your home easily, no?
>I've bought 2 houses using a VA loan and it is great Can't really argue with this, because I don't know the details to be quite honest. The benefits I focused on were health benefits after service. But, you can also buy houses using Fanny Mae, can you not?
> You can get much, much more than 8k. I got over 20K #1 - A good private school will cost you somewhere around 26k a year (undergraduate). #2 - 20k a year as compensation still bites for a years worth of your time.
>#6 is just plain wrong. You do have choice- and that is spelled out in your contract. I believe I listed the alternatives. Desk Duty (stateside) or Dishonorable Discharge. What exactly, am I wrong at?
>#7 - Here is where I got to visit: Mombasa, Kenya. Pusan (sp?), Korea. Bangkok, Thailand. 3 cities in the Philippines. Hong Kong. Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Diego Garcia.
Hmmm:) I think I can visit all those of places in the Peace corp (or teaching english language). And I don't have to risk getting my ass blown off for it, and I get to spend more time there than shore leave (or worse, getting stationed there against your will). And lets not forget the great big target sign you paste on your back, as US soldiers on foreign soil.
Above all, I'ld agree with your assessment. "But it can be a great way to experience some awesome things". It can. But you should join it with your eyes open to what it really is like. You'll note that my previous response (to ur response I gather), illustrated only the negatives in my humble opinion. I'm sure there are quite a few positives as well (mostly relating to unique experience). I just don't think the negatives outweigh the positives (for now, in my case), and certes, I definately want anyone who is intending to join the army/navy/air force out of desperation or a source of income to realize EXACTLY what they're getting into, and what is overhyped (basically my previous bullet list).
I must say btw, I do envy your experience with hydraulic systems; it is something I am extremely interested in learning about (for manufacturing/control purposes). Incidentally, I wanted to join an apprenticeship in Tool and Die trade (a program I believe which originated in the navy), but unfortunately, it has gone the way of the dodo (everyone is training CNC operators, oi vey). But is it worth it to join the military for that experience (or expertise in that case), versus say, read up and experiment for yourself? In my book, no. One other real tangible benefit, is that the people that you soldier with, often remain in contact after you leave the armed forces. This is an excellent way to form a network of people with a similar background (with standards).
Overall, its a no in my book, but like u said, there are some mighty fine reasons to join (tradition, patriotism etc). Really the vacinations, and moral grounds, and possibly the lack of choice in occupation would be the primary reasons for me (personally) *NOT* to join up (the last being an unknown with a possibility of landing in sheer drudgery) [assuming funds were not an issue]. But mandatory vaccinations and the lack of control over moral choices would be my primary issues.
Actually nursing is pointless as well. They're hiring them from Ghana and Phillipines. Way more experienced, and clueless (willing to work for little in comparison to a nurse of equivalent skill); why would you hire someone fresh out of school?
Lets face it, its a walmart world in the U.S. unless u run own business, or have an excellent contact network.
---
'Offshoring' Trend Casting a Wider Net
The outsourcing movement is defying conventional wisdom about what positions are immune from export
By Marla DickersonTimes Staff Writer
January 4, 2004
Recent economic data show the technology sector is perking up, with U.S. firms posting their first profits in years. Vicki Nelson wishes she could say the same of her finances.
The Sacramento-area software engineer has drained her daughter's college fund and sold off furniture to pay bills since she was sacked in 2001. Still unemployed, she doubts her fortunes will rebound along with those of high-tech companies, which through the years dumped tens of thousands of U.S. workers in favor of cheaper hands overseas.
"The jobs have gone to Bangalore," said Nelson, 46, speaking of the city in south India hailed as the new Silicon Valley. American companies "are selling us out to save a couple of bucks. I'm worried about the future of our economy."
As the U.S. struggles with the longest jobless recovery in recent memory, white-collar workers are facing a harsh reality. Just as highways paved the way for migration from America's cities, the information superhighway has given rise to a new set of economic road rules: If it can be digitized, it can be moved.
Retailers, banks, airlines, hotels and hospitals are sending work offshore, from back-office accounting to front-desk customer service. Ditto for government agencies. Today, a laid-off Californian with questions about food stamps can get answers from a telephone hot line staffed in part by workers in India. The state of California two years ago outsourced the delivery of some welfare benefits to Citicorp Electronic Financial Services Inc., which uses English-speaking workers in Bangalore and Pune to assist the down-and-out in Bakersfield and Pacoima.
Powered by high-speed global communications and educated foreign workers, the so-called offshoring trend is rapidly moving beyond call centers and data processing. And it's defying conventional wisdom about what jobs are immune from export.
Indian radiologists contracted by Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston are processing X-ray images of U.S. patients. Foreign legal eagles are writing patents for U.S. firms. Tax clients of Newport Beach-based SurePrep can thank Indian accountants for that fat refund from Uncle Sam. And far from Wall Street, equity analysts from developing nations are crunching numbers once reserved for six-figure American MBAs. Even foreign economists are willing to prognosticate on the cheap.
"There's a guy in India who has been contacting me" about a job, said Mark Zandi, chief economist at Economy.com in West Chester, Pa. "My immediate reaction is that he couldn't possibly do it from there. But when you start to think about it, why not?"
Economy.com in October estimated that nearly 1 million U.S. jobs had been lost to offshoring since early 2001, with 1 in 6 of those in information technology, financial services or business and professional services the bedrock of the "new economy." Forrester Research Inc. projects that 3.3 million service and professional jobs will flee the country by 2015. Researchers at UC Berkeley figure that at least 14 million U.S. service jobs are vulnerable.
Despite all the angst about foreign defections, economists say the collapse in business spending is the principal culprit behind U.S. employment declines. And the focus has been on the manufacturing sector, which has shed nearly 2.7 million net jobs in the last three years. Still, analysts say offshoring has been a factor and will continue to be
I've considered the military several times (on and off). I've refused to sign up for the following reasons (for that, ROTC, whatever):
#1) You are officially a guinea pig for whatever "vaccines" they wish to dose u with. This has just recently been challenged (successfully) in court. However, the revised judgement still leaves you open forced vacinations by executive order. This is a HUGE negative for me.
#2) Pay. The pay sucks. Even with the raises that congress passed in the 90's.
#3) Benefits. The benefits are overstated, and suck. Don't believe me, try googling whatever benefit you think looks attractive, and you will find NIGHTMARE stories about it.
#4) Morals. If you object to a war that the U.S. is in, you have no choice but to serve (past resigning your commision, or being dishonorably discharged). The most they will do is put you at a desk; that in turn means you are supporting the efforts of your fellow soldiers to kill people who are (by definition above), morally innocent of said effort. This would not be an issue, if the U.S. had (and has) not historically fought wars for VERY sketchy reasons.
#5) The College Pay. The cash reward (max 8k) versus a year of life? Would you work for 8k a year? So whats the difference. Come on:)
#6) The Occupation. You have NO CHOICE over what you will be doing in the military. Thats right, READ THAT AGAIN. YOU HAVE NO CHOICE over what you will be doing in the military. They test you, then they stick you in whatever occupation you are fit for (according to those test results).
#7) Travel. yeah u travel. but if you haven't traveled already, let me tell you:) There's a whole hell of a lot of places you don't want to find yourself in. Guess which ones you'll be traveling to:)
--
Put another way, if you want to join the military, for christ's sake, don't do it just for the money. Thats a chumps bet, and it does a HUGE disservice to the military.
>Why don't you change your major to an industry that IS growing, like IP Law.
Thats next on the chopping block, imho. You don't really need to be in this country to do IP Law (or any law for that matter). Unless you're doing court-room-presentation. And even that might go the way of the dodo, if video technology gets off the ground.
>Or Linguist for some obscure 3rd world country. Actually, you should try to find the poorest nation out there, and learn it's language. In 4 years, you'll be helping US firms hire them in droves...
Slashdot Mirror
actually no. nice try though.
#1 - any deflection in the bullet path ("ricochet") would have to at some point, engage the material as its path curved..
#2 - the material itself would be mashed (and probably torn) just by the sheer collision of a fast bullet and the wall.
What he said :) :)
Seriously, biomass fuels (while good from the POV of regeneration), suck in terms of their
power output. Nuclear reactors are the way
to go
I believe the boy is on to something...
Hrmmm...
>The only field I know of that might get you security is heath care
:)
--
I wouldn't count on this either, incidentally,
for several reasons:
#1 - Hiring of experienced people from abroad willing to work for entry pay. (Will kill entry-level) [registered nurses]
#2 - Illegal immigrants (nursing home attendants)
#3 - Anything that can be outsourced, will be outsourced; this is specifically in regards to Radiology
#4 - HMO's killing your salary, not making it worth your while to study medicine (overall).
mod parent up +1 funny :)
Mod this guy up :) +1 informative :)
>IMHO, people underestimate the time it takes to become productive in a language. This seems to be particually so with Java
:) You've also failed to account for natiev intelligence of the person, and sheer interest in the subject (motivation).
Depends on the language, and the base of experience in implementing different projects.
C for instance, if very easy to learn if you're methodical (and have a good sample codebase to imitiate for style, protections etc). Perl is an even easier language to learn since their modules are very well-documented. C++ is more difficult to pick up, and Java is even harder still; however, for java, the problem is not the language is difficult to code; it is that their are many pitfalls in your choice of which library/pattern to use from a performance standpoint (assuming performance-oriented coding of course)
Really though, a technical interview (and not code stupid x on the spot w/ pencil and paper)
talking about the approach and design methodology of the projects said person will be working on is probably more informative.
I hate HR interviews (which are pointless), or technical interviews where the person has not had
a lot of experience in accurately gauging the relevance and depth of an interviewee's background.
Perhaps companies should be a little more general about what they want rather than specific programming languages and start asking for conceptual skills. "Must have experience with an object-oriented language, memory management, traversing tree and graph-like data structures.
:) I'ld much rather have someone who's familiar with task assigned [implement x]
---
Definately
over someone who's generically-studied a language. Same goes with families of programming languages. The only time I would disagree with your assessment, is that of programming languages where knowledge of libraries [core, or standardized] is important
to being able to effectively code.
>You've just shown them that you
:) Really, I find 0 appeal in working for a company that focuses on politics and not work and customer satisfaction.
:) Probably a much better indicator than :) SUGGESTION: Ask about the work experience :) Spend less-time with bullshit questions :) And certes, don't ask any that you don't want to hear the answer to from qualified but blunt people :)
(a) know it's a setup question
A skill sure to come in handy when you're being interrogated by the SEC
>(b) demonstrated the ability to think on your feet
I've got a long work history to demonstrate that
an interview, IMHO
>(c) let slip that your idea of a good time is working on learning how to operate high-end software suites
Yeah, like that makes a difference these days.
They're not looking for good people; they're looking for just enough to get by and the lowest bid/least likely of leaving in cases of managerial abuse.
Hehehehe.
:)
I had someone ask me that question once in an interview (CEO of the company); when I told him I didn't think that way [which I don't, since technically anything I'm weak at is pretty much because I'm utterly uninterested in improving it, since it doesn't relate to work requirements or personal interests], he got upset. He insisted I produce some flaw... To wit, I reiterated that I don't really have any (as it relates to work). Didn't get the job (needless to say), but it was definately a fun (engaging) interview
-1 Missing The Point. A question like this isn't intended to force you to bullshit. What it does is force the candidate to (hopefully) be honest and own up to a weakness about themselves. A good answer to this question indicates 1) honesty (duh), and 2) self-awareness.
---
Than don't be upset when I answer truthfully,
"Don't have any."
1 more to go.
AHHAHAHAHAHA
sorry.
Acctually, someones done a search-enginer for porn, called "Booble" :)
Mod parent up, +6 funny :) :)
WAY Funny dude
On my end its 4 things:
1 - Idiots trying to multi-task on shit u shouldn't be multitasking on (driving, movies etc)
2 - The expectation that if you have a cell phone, its ok to call you at odd-times, off-work whatever.
3 - the severe price gouging (cost, economics)that cell phone companies insist on foisting as reasonable, particularly the scummy business practices.
4 - the fact that their are several alternatives that could be developed that are far more useful to solve the problems that people THINK cell phones solve.
Mind you, I'm not a luddite; I do think cell phones [Wireless Services!] have their uses. JUST NOT AS THEY'RE IMPLEMENTED TODAY. TODAY THEY SUCK FROM EVERY ASPECT. Particularly the intrusive nature that cell phones are taking from a LEGAL stand point.
call forwarding? It's hard to forward a number when you don't have one--That's right, I had no number.
:) ::
:)
--
Tart. U had a land-line at some point; have the telco forward the number at the switch. My brother did that with his old landline from another region. Point it to whoever's phone u were staying at.
Number Portability? Yeah, it's coming. It wasn't around 5 years ago. Now I'm looking at moving again, what number am I going to take?
---
Right; thats exactly my point. You got a cell phone for that reason (and paid through the nose); It would make FAR MORE SENSE, to have a number portability act, lobbied for by a consumer organization, for land lines, rather than force people who are in your situation to get a cell phone.
and a voluntary directory sounds a whole lot like a junk caller's wet dream-- Not to mention the people that don't have my number don't have it for a reason.
--
Execute junk callers. I'ld be willing to support that piece of legislation, in a HEART BEAT. But u missed my more pragmatic solution;
that of ACLs (access control lists). That means, since your friends would have an account, and you have an account, u could voluntarily give them access to your (everchanging) information AT WILL.
Not to flame or anything, but cell's have their uses, especially when you don't have a place to hang your hat...
--
I didn't find a need to keep in touch past a few minor calls (hey I'm still alive), when I was homeless for a month . Certainly, I had FAR MORE IMPORTANT CONCERNS than a stupid cell phone.
And on that note
the 6p's
Proper Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance.
Not to flame or anything
Anyway, its my personal opinion; I posted to point out that the solution envisioned by you,
while technically flawless, leaves ALOT to be desired in the long run. Perhaps if enough consumers back it, we won't be paying through the nose for ridiculously overpriced communication "services".
When I got my cell phone, I was a year into college, and I couldn't find housing-- I ended up couch surfing for six months, followed by living in places for between 1 and 6 months at a time for another two years. If I didn't have a cell phone, I would have had no phone number.
---
Call forwarding.
Now that I'm no longer in college, and I live 300 miles away from that area code, it's the number that everyone knows, and so I don't want to give it up.
---
Number portability, or barring that, some sort of useful way to keep people in touch (VOLUNTARY national directory) with some sort of ACL mechanism.
BOTH are better than cell phones.
>What if you *do* have a spare *tIre* and don't know how to change it. Yes, ok, I'm a girl. I'm sorry, but I can't change a flat tire.
Its called learn wench.
Jesus christ, it aint rocket science.
>And having a flat tire is only one thing that can go wrong with a car. What if your battery dies and you need a jump?
Portable battery charger (100$),
Triple AA + time (20$)
Replacing your damn battery the
first six times it happens ($80).
>What if your engine breaks?
Walk, to a payphone... U know, like they did BEFORE cell phones existed?
>I mean, I drive a 13-year-old car and all those things, well besides running out of gas, are perfectly plausible things to occur.
Kill ur wireless phonebill, and save up for a better car. Or regular car maintainance.
I suspect another universe.
Poses an interesting question;
what if the boundary of the universe is nothing more than the region of "space" that can't be traversed.
Damn. I just had that thought myself.
Something interesting is afoot.
Lets get specific shall we :)
:) I think I can visit all those of places in the Peace corp (or teaching english language). And I don't have to risk getting my ass blown off for it, and I get to spend more time there than shore leave (or worse, getting stationed there against your will). And lets not forget the great big target sign you paste on your back, as US soldiers on foreign soil.
>full medical/dental and free room and board
I got free room and board at the 'rents.
Medical and dental is an HMO, correct?
You also use, preferentially military doctors, correct?
>When I was at sea my expenses were zero.
At the expense of being able to leave your home easily, no?
>I've bought 2 houses using a VA loan and it is great
Can't really argue with this, because I don't know the details to be quite honest. The benefits I focused on were health benefits after service. But, you can also buy houses using Fanny Mae, can you not?
> You can get much, much more than 8k. I got over 20K
#1 - A good private school will cost you somewhere around 26k a year (undergraduate).
#2 - 20k a year as compensation still bites for a years worth of your time.
>#6 is just plain wrong. You do have choice- and that is spelled out in your contract.
I believe I listed the alternatives.
Desk Duty (stateside) or Dishonorable Discharge.
What exactly, am I wrong at?
>#7 - Here is where I got to visit: Mombasa, Kenya. Pusan (sp?), Korea. Bangkok, Thailand. 3 cities in the Philippines. Hong Kong. Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Diego Garcia.
Hmmm
Above all, I'ld agree with your assessment.
"But it can be a great way to experience some awesome things". It can. But you should join it with your eyes open to what it really is like.
You'll note that my previous response (to ur response I gather), illustrated only the negatives in my humble opinion. I'm sure there are quite a few positives as well (mostly relating to unique experience). I just don't think the negatives outweigh the positives (for now, in my case), and certes, I definately want anyone who is intending to join the army/navy/air force out of desperation or a source of income to realize EXACTLY what they're getting into, and what is overhyped (basically my previous bullet list).
I must say btw, I do envy your experience with hydraulic systems; it is something I am extremely interested in learning about (for manufacturing/control purposes). Incidentally, I wanted to join an apprenticeship in Tool and Die trade (a program I believe which originated in the navy), but unfortunately, it has gone the way of the dodo (everyone is training CNC operators, oi vey). But is it worth it to join the military for that experience (or expertise in that case), versus say, read up and experiment for yourself? In my book, no. One other real tangible benefit, is that the people that you soldier with, often remain in contact after you leave the armed forces. This is an excellent way to form a network of people with a similar background (with standards).
Overall, its a no in my book, but like u said, there are some mighty fine reasons to join (tradition, patriotism etc). Really the vacinations, and moral grounds, and possibly the lack of choice in occupation would be the primary reasons for me (personally) *NOT* to join up (the last being an unknown with a possibility of landing in sheer drudgery) [assuming funds were not an issue]. But mandatory vaccinations and the lack of control over moral choices would be my primary issues.
Actually nursing is pointless as well.
They're hiring them from Ghana and Phillipines.
Way more experienced, and clueless (willing to
work for little in comparison to a nurse of equivalent skill); why would you hire someone fresh out of school?
Lets face it, its a walmart world in the U.S.
unless u run own business, or have an excellent contact network.
---
'Offshoring' Trend Casting a Wider Net
The outsourcing movement is defying conventional wisdom about what positions are immune from export
By Marla DickersonTimes Staff Writer
January 4, 2004
Recent economic data show the technology sector is perking up, with U.S. firms posting their first profits in years. Vicki Nelson wishes she could say the same of her finances.
The Sacramento-area software engineer has drained her daughter's college fund and sold off furniture to pay bills since she was sacked in 2001. Still unemployed, she doubts her fortunes will rebound along with those of high-tech companies, which through the years dumped tens of thousands of U.S. workers in favor of cheaper hands overseas.
"The jobs have gone to Bangalore," said Nelson, 46, speaking of the city in south India hailed as the new Silicon Valley. American companies "are selling us out to save a couple of bucks. I'm worried about the future of our economy."
As the U.S. struggles with the longest jobless recovery in recent memory, white-collar workers are facing a harsh reality. Just as highways paved the way for migration from America's cities, the information superhighway has given rise to a new set of economic road rules: If it can be digitized, it can be moved.
Retailers, banks, airlines, hotels and hospitals are sending work offshore, from back-office accounting to front-desk customer service. Ditto for government agencies. Today, a laid-off Californian with questions about food stamps can get answers from a telephone hot line staffed in part by workers in India. The state of California two years ago outsourced the delivery of some welfare benefits to Citicorp Electronic Financial Services Inc., which uses English-speaking workers in Bangalore and Pune to assist the down-and-out in Bakersfield and Pacoima.
Powered by high-speed global communications and educated foreign workers, the so-called offshoring trend is rapidly moving beyond call centers and data processing. And it's defying conventional wisdom about what jobs are immune from export.
Indian radiologists contracted by Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston are processing X-ray images of U.S. patients. Foreign legal eagles are writing patents for U.S. firms. Tax clients of Newport Beach-based SurePrep can thank Indian accountants for that fat refund from Uncle Sam. And far from Wall Street, equity analysts from developing nations are crunching numbers once reserved for six-figure American MBAs. Even foreign economists are willing to prognosticate on the cheap.
"There's a guy in India who has been contacting me" about a job, said Mark Zandi, chief economist at Economy.com in West Chester, Pa. "My immediate reaction is that he couldn't possibly do it from there. But when you start to think about it, why not?"
Economy.com in October estimated that nearly 1 million U.S. jobs had been lost to offshoring since early 2001, with 1 in 6 of those in information technology, financial services or business and professional services the bedrock of the "new economy." Forrester Research Inc. projects that 3.3 million service and professional jobs will flee the country by 2015. Researchers at UC Berkeley figure that at least 14 million U.S. service jobs are vulnerable.
Despite all the angst about foreign defections, economists say the collapse in business spending is the principal culprit behind U.S. employment declines. And the focus has been on the manufacturing sector, which has shed nearly 2.7 million net jobs in the last three years. Still, analysts say offshoring has been a factor and will continue to be
I've considered the military several times (on and off). I've refused to sign up for the following reasons (for that, ROTC, whatever):
:)
:) There's a whole hell of a lot of places you don't want to find yourself in. Guess which ones you'll be traveling to :)
#1) You are officially a guinea pig for whatever "vaccines" they wish to dose u with.
This has just recently been challenged (successfully) in court. However, the revised judgement still leaves you open forced vacinations by executive order. This is a HUGE negative for me.
#2) Pay. The pay sucks. Even with the raises that congress passed in the 90's.
#3) Benefits. The benefits are overstated, and suck. Don't believe me, try googling whatever benefit you think looks attractive, and you will find NIGHTMARE stories about it.
#4) Morals. If you object to a war that the U.S. is in, you have no choice but to serve (past resigning your commision, or being dishonorably discharged). The most they will do is put you at a desk; that in turn means you are supporting the efforts of your fellow soldiers to kill people who are (by definition above), morally innocent of said effort. This would not be an issue, if the U.S. had (and has) not historically fought wars for VERY sketchy reasons.
#5) The College Pay. The cash reward (max 8k) versus a year of life? Would you work for 8k a year? So whats the difference. Come on
#6) The Occupation. You have NO CHOICE over what you will be doing in the military. Thats right, READ THAT AGAIN. YOU HAVE NO CHOICE over what you will be doing in the military. They test you, then they stick you in whatever occupation you are fit for (according to those test results).
#7) Travel. yeah u travel. but if you haven't traveled already, let me tell you
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Put another way, if you want to join the military, for christ's sake, don't do it just for
the money. Thats a chumps bet, and it does a HUGE disservice to the military.
>Why don't you change your major to an industry that IS growing, like IP Law.
Thats next on the chopping block, imho. You don't really need to be in this country to do IP Law (or any law for that matter). Unless you're doing court-room-presentation. And even that might go the way of the dodo, if video technology gets off the ground.
>Or Linguist for some obscure 3rd world country. Actually, you should try to find the poorest nation out there, and learn it's language. In 4 years, you'll be helping US firms hire them in droves...
Amen, BROTHER!
>how to deal with work conditions, including low pay, long hours, bad bosses, evil customers, etc
Things no-one should have to deal with, imho.
Or as one of my favorite quotes says,
"Only an ass treads beneath a burden without complaint"...