Earth To Union Leaders: Look At Greece

Greek debt talks to stretch into weekend

Greece desperately needs to secure the second bailout and the bond swap deal that seeks to halve its debt load in order to avoid a catastrophic default within weeks.

"And one of the main problems of the Greek economy as we have said time and again here is the chronic loss of competitiveness over the past decade. ... Therefore all the elements, including elements linked to the labor market, wage formation, are part of these discussions."

"The IMF rightly is demanding a reduction in the minimum wage and a major reduction in the number of civil servants," he said. "We will not agree to the second loan package until Greece has shown it is seriously working at this."

Free markets increase wealth for all.

Exactly what I am calling for in Ontario is exactly what the Greek people are having forced on them.  "Chronic loss of competitiveness," due to entitlement and irrationally high wages is at front and centre of the debt talks.  Lowering minimum wage is the solution to their problems: go figure.  Obviously too little, too late to figure this out.  Unions don't seem to be fairing well in Greece.  I predict similar unrest developing in Ontario over the next 5-10 years as we watch similar mechanisms at work (high debt, unemployment, lack of innovation, uncompetitive wages, etc).  Caterpillar leaving is just the beginning.  The free market does not tolerate entitlement either from a highly paid executive or an individual working hard at a lower paying job.  The free market is tough, but not our enemy.  Let the market be free, when we do...we give rich and poor the best chance possible.

Ontario, please observe the pit Greece has dug themselves into.  Get scared that we are on the same path. Turn and run from the entitlement, big government and big spending attitude that has captured our province; quickly, while there is still time!

Greece Unions: Bankruptcy or Wage cuts (not rocket science)
Ontario Unions (who has workers under them who are not competitive): Something is better then nothing!  You are not going to shut down the free market,  so you can lose out, or get competitive.  Or you can start your own company with your own capital. 

A Conservative Compassionate Response To Caterpillar

Just because a person appreciates the free market being free does not mean they are void from caring for others.  Quite to the contrary of typical stereotypes, I believe a conservative position best enables us to express true compassion because it is done from our free will and not forced by taxes/debt and laws.

With this being said, I feel sad for the families affected by Caterpillars decision to move their operations down south.  It's a terrible thing when you invest your time and talents into an organisation and you feel they do not value you as a person.  I know there are several employers out there who desire to earn a profit and value people all at the same time. 

In my last entry, I pointed out that shareholders made a decision with respect to what they own.  I have no control over their choice however, I do have control over how I choose to use my time and talents.  This is quite likely an incredibly small offer, however it is something: I am offering to review resumes of anyone who was recently laid off from Caterpillar.  I have viewed 1000's of resumes in my day and am passionate about helping people put their best foot forward.  I have received a lot of feedback over the years as to how I have helped developed resumes that best suit the employers needs.  If that initial edit goes well, I would agree to stay in touch via phone to provide encouragement, advice and support to help you find your next job.  Again, it's not much, but something*.

Furthermore, keep your eyes open for Canada Job bank as each of my companies either have ad's out or will have adds out shortly.  I agree to personally review every resume from Caterpillar to ensure careful consideration with respect to possible employment (put on resume: Attn Ryan, per Ryan and it will be directed accordingly).

Finally, here are some resources for your review if you are looking to get ahead or simply trying to make ends meet and find a job. 

Resources:
How to get a raise:
Top Tip On Your Resume:

Finally, the 'free market' almost crushed me and my operations.  I was tempted to be angry with the big banks and government, the 'crushers of my dreams'...only to realize, I am the only one who can crush my dreams.  Keep dreaming.


*I don't have 24/7 open for time, but I will do as much as I resonably/possibly can.