Live Your Life Learning

Mike Searson

Live Your Life Learning explores topics related to career exploration, basic job hunting, sweepstakes/contests, and other stuff. We may talk about a career web site, explore a career association, talk to a person about their career, look at educational options, dream about what you will do when you win the mega-gazillion and your favorite travel destination. Listen, Learn, Live. Learning to make your life better.

  1. 2d ago

    This Week: Sales Career Resources – A YouTube Resource Worth Exploring

    One area I've been exploring recently is sales careers. As I continue learning about the profession, I've been looking for resources that explain not only how to sell, but also how the entire sales process fits together. One free resource I have found particularly helpful is this YouTube video: Video: FREE High Ticket Sales Training For 2026 | From a $10M Closer Channel: Alex Beck The video was published about 11 months ago. What I LikedOne of the things I appreciated most was the way the information was organized. Instead of jumping randomly from topic to topic, Alex Beck begins with an outline of the major concepts before explaining each section in detail. Personally, I learn best this way because it helps me understand the "big picture" before focusing on the individual techniques. Two Main TopicsThe video is organized into two major sections: 1. Sales Fundamentals This section covers the sales process and many of the techniques used during a sales conversation. 2. How to Get a Sales Job This section discusses finding remote sales opportunities, particularly positions involving high-ticket products or services. The sales process described in the video focuses primarily on prospects who have already expressed interest by booking a sales call after visiting a website. These are often called warm leads, since the customer has already taken the first step by requesting more information. The discussion centers on what is commonly called a one-call or two-call close, where the goal is to help the customer make a purchasing decision within one or two conversations. Although this sales model may not apply to every sales position, many of the communication principles can be useful in other sales environments as well. Choosing the Right EmployerOne point that stood out to me was that the company and the product you sell can have a major impact on your success. Another valuable idea was the importance of working for an employer that provides continuous coaching and feedback. Sales is a skill that develops over time. Receiving regular feedback about each stage of the sales process can help sales professionals continually improve their performance. Practice MattersAnother point Alex Beck emphasizes is the importance of practice. Like many professional skills, sales improves through repetition, coaching, and experience. He also mentions that a mentor—whether inside or outside your company—can be a valuable resource for continued growth. Why I Recommend This VideoOne thing I appreciated is that Alex Beck shares a complete framework before discussing his paid coaching services. Rather than placing most of the valuable information behind a paywall, he provides several hours of practical instruction that viewers can begin applying immediately if they choose. Whether or not you are interested in his coaching program, I believe the free video provides a solid introduction to the sales profession. For Individuals with Wrist or Repetitive-Use InjuriesAs someone who has dealt with wrist problems myself, I also encourage people to consider the physical requirements of different careers. Some outside sales, field sales, or territory sales positions emphasize meeting customers face-to-face, where the primary activity is conversation rather than constant keyboard use. Every position is different, so carefully review the job description and, if appropriate, discuss potential positions with your career and healthcare professional to determine whether they fit your individual circumstances. Final ThoughtsSales is a profession that combines communication, problem-solving, relationship building, and continuous learning. Whether you're considering a career in sales or simply want to improve your communication skills, there are many excellent free resources available online to help you get started. I found Alex Beck's video to be a helpful introduction because it presents sales as a complete process rather than a collection of individual techniques. While every sales role and company is different, understanding the overall sales process can provide a solid foundation for further learning. At Live Your Life Learning, I encourage people to keep exploring new careers, developing new skills, and taking advantage of quality educational resources. Learning is a lifelong journey, and each new concept you master can open the door to new opportunities. Thank you for reading, and I wish you success in your own career and learning journey.

    This Week: Sales Career Resources – A YouTube Resource Worth Exploring
  2. Jun 22

    Workforce Development Offices: Resources for Career Exploration and Job Seekers

    When exploring careers or searching for employment opportunities, many people focus on commercial job boards and company websites. However, another valuable resource that is sometimes overlooked is workforce development offices. Workforce development offices are organizations, often operated by state governments and their partners, that help individuals prepare for, find, and advance in employment. These offices provide a variety of services designed to support job seekers, career changers, and individuals seeking additional education and training. Whether someone is entering the workforce, changing careers, returning after a break, or seeking new skills, workforce development professionals can provide valuable assistance. Some of the services available through workforce development offices may include: Career exploration and assessment.Job search assistance.Resume and cover letter guidance.Interview preparation.Information about training programs and apprenticeships.Workshops and career events.Connections to employers and job opportunities.Labor market information and information about high-demand occupations.Many of these services are available at little or no cost to job seekers. In many cases, workforce development offices also provide access to computers, workshops, hiring events, and referrals to training and educational programs. Workforce development offices are often part of the American Job Center network, which provides employment and training services throughout the United States. How to Find Workforce Development OfficesIndividuals can locate workforce development offices in several ways. State Government AgenciesMany states operate workforce development programs through their departments of labor or workforce agencies. A Google search using phrases such as: "[Name of State] workforce development" or "[Name of State] department of labor" can often help individuals locate these resources. American Job CentersThe American Job Center network provides employment and training services throughout the United States. Information about local offices can be found through CareerOneStop. Website for CareerOneStop: https://www.careeronestop.org/ On the CareerOneStop website, look for the "Find Local Help" section. From there, select "Find American Job Centers" to search for offices by location. Website layouts may change over time, especially on mobile devices, but the search tools are generally easy to locate. Community Colleges and Educational InstitutionsCommunity colleges and universities frequently partner with workforce development organizations and may provide information about local employment and training resources. Internet Search Engines and AI ToolsGoogle search engines and AI tools can also help individuals identify workforce development offices and employment resources available in their state and local area. One of the strengths of workforce development offices is that they bring together a variety of career and training resources in one place. In addition to helping individuals find employment, these organizations can help people explore career options, develop new skills, and identify opportunities for lifelong learning. Career development is often an ongoing journey rather than a single event. Workforce development offices exist to help individuals navigate that journey and discover new possibilities. Whether you are entering the workforce, considering a career change, or simply exploring your options, workforce development offices may provide resources and support worth investigating.

    Workforce Development Offices: Resources for Career Exploration and Job Seekers
  3. Jun 17

    CareerOneStop: A Free Career Resource for Lifelong Learners

    When exploring careers or looking for a new job, many people turn to commercial job boards and websites. However, one valuable resource that is sometimes overlooked is CareerOneStop. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, CareerOneStop provides a wide variety of free tools and information designed to help individuals make informed career decisions. The website for CareerOneStop is: https://www.careeronestop.org/ Visitors to the website can explore careers, search for job openings, learn about training programs, and research employment trends. The site also offers information on resumes, cover letters, interviewing, and salary data. Some of the resources available through CareerOneStop include: Career exploration tools.Occupation profiles and salary information.Resume and cover letter guidance.Job search assistance.Training and education information.Interview preparation resources.Career videos and self-assessments.Information for career changers and lifelong learners.One of the strengths of CareerOneStop is that it brings together a large amount of career information in one place. Whether someone is entering the workforce, returning to the workforce after a break, or considering a new direction, the website offers resources that can help support the process. Career development is often an ongoing journey. Having access to reliable information can make that journey easier and help individuals make more informed decisions about their future. CareerOneStop is an example of how technology and public resources can work together to support lifelong learning and career success. Those interested in learning more are encouraged to visit CareerOneStop and explore the many free resources available.

    CareerOneStop: A Free Career Resource for Lifelong Learners
  4. Jun 17

    Discover Apprenticeship Opportunities

    When many people think about preparing for a career, they often think of college degrees or certificate programs. Another option that deserves attention is registered apprenticeships. Fortunately, there are several ways individuals can explore apprenticeship opportunities. Individuals can locate apprenticeship opportunities through a variety of resources, including: Federal Government ResourcesInformation about apprenticeships can be found through the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Apprenticeship. The following website provides the ability to search for apprenticeship opportunities across the country: https://www.apprenticeship.gov/apprenticeship-job-finder The Office of Apprenticeship also provides information about the apprenticeship system and links to state apprenticeship agencies and resources: https://www.apprenticeship.gov/about-us/apprenticeship-system  State Government AgenciesMany state government agencies provide information about apprenticeship programs available within their states. The Office of Apprenticeship website contains links and information that can help individuals locate state apprenticeship resources. College and University Career OfficesCareer offices at colleges and universities sometimes provide information about apprenticeship programs and opportunities available to students and graduates. Job Search EnginesMajor job search websites such as LinkedIn and Indeed often include apprenticeship opportunities. Searching with the keyword "apprenticeship" may help individuals identify available positions. Google and AI SearchesGoogle searches and AI tools can also help individuals locate apprenticeship opportunities in the geographic areas they are interested in exploring. One of the biggest advantages of apprenticeships is the opportunity to "earn while you learn." Participants receive paid, on-the-job experience while also receiving training and instruction. Upon completion, apprentices earn nationally recognized credentials that can help open the door to future opportunities. Although apprenticeships have traditionally been associated with the skilled trades, opportunities are expanding into many other fields. Today, apprenticeships can be found in areas such as healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, transportation, and other high-demand occupations. Employers benefit by developing skilled workers, while individuals gain valuable experience and income as they learn. For many people, apprenticeships offer an attractive alternative or complement to traditional educational pathways. Apprenticeships represent another example of how learning can take many forms. Whether you are entering the workforce, changing careers, or simply exploring your options, apprenticeships may be worth considering. Through a combination of paid work experience and structured learning, apprenticeships provide another pathway to lifelong learning and career development.

    Discover Apprenticeship Opportunities

About

Live Your Life Learning explores topics related to career exploration, basic job hunting, sweepstakes/contests, and other stuff. We may talk about a career web site, explore a career association, talk to a person about their career, look at educational options, dream about what you will do when you win the mega-gazillion and your favorite travel destination. Listen, Learn, Live. Learning to make your life better.