Originally Posted by OversteerFTW,Apr 11 2008, 08:23 AM

Unions served a purpose when they businesses were abusing the workers. But then the workers got so strong, they started abusing the business. The unions effectively overpriced our labor forcing the closure of the very companies they were trying to make better.

Originally Posted by WhrDLMI,Apr 11 2008, 09:28 AM

I think I have learned (sadly, mostly the hard way) enough about the business environment that I will be able to recognize a good one from a bad one. The skill that I do not think I have developed, though, is knowing when to jump ship and move on.

Environments change. Knowing when it is going down hill and having your stuff in order to take advantage of opportunity is the hard part. For some reason, I have an abnormally over-developed sense of duty and honor to my employer. I always loose sight of the fact that they could not give a crap about me. I have been pooped on twice now in as many years.

Originally Posted by WhrDLMI,Apr 11 2008, 08:24 AM

Believe me, Alex... I know how you feel. I struggled horribly when I went to Law School. That experience definitely colored my view of what I was capable of for a long time... Nearly a decade. That is how I ended up swinging hammers and got to "where" I am today.

I strongly encourage you to reconsider that opinion. My experience with working towards my masters has been nothing but positive and much, much more pleasant than Law School ever was. I am really angry with myself for not doing it sooner.

Originally Posted by 3AFL S2K,Apr 11 2008, 09:30 AM

as i get older, and experience things, some that most people shouldnt, i came to the realization that money isnt everything. understanding what you need and what you want really clears it up for me. inorder to be happy i dont need the best toys. its more about people than things.

Originally Posted by magikcow,Apr 11 2008, 09:30 AM

Unions still serve a purpose to this day. Believe me when I tell you that most of the union leaders want nothing but the best for their workers. For example look at AFSME, state workers in that Union have it made. CWA has made strides for communication works also ATU has a very good collective bargaining agreement.

Originally Posted by OversteerFTW,Apr 11 2008, 09:32 AM

If you dont keep up with COL, you are getting pay cut every year. That is the reality. I appreciate happiness at work, but how many of you would work for free at your jobs. Money does play a part.

Originally Posted by OversteerFTW,Apr 11 2008, 08:32 AM

If you dont keep up with COL, you are getting pay cut every year. That is the reality. I appreciate happiness at work, but how many of you would work for free at your jobs. Money does play a part.