Ethnically Speaking by Larry Meeks

Dear Larry: I am convinced that racism is alive and well in America. I am African-American and have been looking for a job for almost two years. I am 22 years old, and most of my black friends do not have jobs. We look and look, but nothing is happening.

I have read black unemployment is twice as high as it is in the white community. When one race gets twice as many jobs as the other race, this alone proves racism exists.

My father thinks like you. He believes there are other reasons than race for high black unemployment. He thinks there is a logical explanation. I have listened to him, but I do not agree with him. To be honest, he does not make any sense. He said I should write to you for your opinion.

Just for the record, I did not want to write to you. I do not care what you think because you mean nothing to me. The only reason I am "taking pen to paper" is because my father is paying me $25. I need the money for gas, which is what you are full of. — Rodney

Dear Rodney: The ability to get a job depends upon a number of factors. The first thing you should remember is when you are job-seeking, you are in a competition against all others. The employer is doing you a favor by hiring you. It is not the other way around.

When you apply for a job, you should always think about what you have to offer. Why are you the best person for the job? What can you do that will make your qualifications better than anyone else?

One of the reasons blacks are not hired at the same rate as other ethnic groups is education.

However, I have found an employer will many times hire a person with less education if the job-seeker shows an unusual amount of drive and enthusiasm. An employer will be impressed with a person who displays loyalty, a hard-working style, punctuality, the ability to get along with other people and the willingness to work without causing problems for the boss.

In other words, do you have the right attitude for the job? Judging from your letter, you will have difficulty getting and/or keeping a job. You have a chip on your shoulder, and as soon as a would-be employer detects your attitude, you will be deemed noncompetitive and eliminated.

I know you don't care about me, but I care about you. So, I will give you some solicited advice. No one owes you a job. If you want a job, take a look at yourself. Ask others to give an honest opinion of your personality. If, as I suspect, you have a problem — fix it yourself.

If after you have made yourself competitive and you still cannot find employment, then consider other factors. Right now, you are in no position to judge.

To find out more about Larry G. Meeks and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.

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