trainposition

A few years ago, one of our candidates, Gavin, was going to a chiefs oral for a training position. Several older, in service firefighters, were advising him not to do it because it could limit his chances of being hired by another department where he was on the list and test with other departments. Often after you're a firefighter for a while, you forget how tough it was to get this job. His mind full of what "They" said, he was going to play hard to get in the chiefs oral.

I asked him one question. How many departments are knocking on your door right now? Well, uh, none. Could you survive on the reduced pay? Yes, because he was a physical therapist and could work his current job on his off days. How bad do you really want to be a firefighter? More than you will ever know was the answer. Then, how about going into the chiefs oral for the drill and experience as if it were the job you really wanted. If they offered you the job, then make the decision? It can be a lot easier getting another firefighter position if you already have one. And, it's another great position to gain experience, training to put on your application and resume.

He went to the oral and was offered the position. By this time he realized the opportunity and took the job. The next year Mill Valley tested for full time firefighters. Guess who got one of the jobs? Right, the guy who's firefighter friends told him the trainee position would hurt his chances. He now had a badge! The next year the department sent him to paramedic school. Then, the department he really wanted to work for tested for fire/medics. Guess who got one of those badges?

Opportunities come our way in life. It's being able to recognize and take advantage when you can't see the future that can make the difference. Ask Gavin, who took the trainee position, if it was worth it? Oh, by the way, not one of those other departments where Gavin was on the list called him during this time period.

"The past is in cement, the future is uncertain. We only have today. That's why they call it the present."

Absolutely nothing counts 'til you have the badge. Nothing!

"Captain Bob"

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Fire "Captain Bob" Smith has coached countless entry level and promotional candidates to get their badge. He is a retired 28-year Hayward, Ca. Captain, speaker/author of the audio/video program "Conquer the Job Interview," the book "Fire Up Your Communication Skills" ISBN 09657620-6-8 and a member of the prestigious National Speakers Association. You can book him as a speaker or get a copy of his books and tapes by calling toll free at 888-238-3959.

E-mail: captbob@verio.com Web site: http://www.eatstress.com