Freemans - Left hand doesn't know what right hand is doing

The saga continues. Yesterday morning the call centre said they could do nothing until it had completed an investigation into how they managed to cock up so completely (of course that's my interpretation - not a direct quote). Yet at 4pm a courier tried to deliver "an Item". Unfortunately because nobody at Freemans thought to mention that they would deliver, we had gone out. The courier company say they cant deliver now until Monday and that they only recieved the item from Freemans on 28th.

I can not believe that business can operate shabilly

On a positive Nando Torres deliver 3 consecutive wins for the reds!!!!

Facebook group

Hi again.

I have now set up a facebook group in an effort to encourage Freemans to fix our broken Christmas. Please come and join and brin your friends

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?filter=app_2361831622#/group.php?gid=225568154775&ref=nf

Freemans are Crap

As a follow up to my previous post. I have attached a copy of my letter to Freemans...... Just thought people may be interested

Dear sirs.
I am writing to express my deep dissatisfaction at the level of service recieved from your company.
You will no doubt have seen my account notes showing the damage your service has done to my families xmas. Your failure to resolve issues or even offer to resolve is incredible. I would welcome the opportunity to speak with your CEO who I believe is Tony Hill (As named by David a supervisor in the call centre).
In summary my wife ordered a xmas present for me on the 9th December. She made various calls to your call centre chasing delievry and was told it would be delivered, it had been dispatched and Xmas eve at the latest. It never arived and still hasn't.
Last night I had call from a young man in the call centre who told me he waned to talk about the Camera. I did not know what the item was and as previously stated it was to be a Xmas present. I now know that there are notes on the account stating this (I was informed of this by David the supervisor)
Amazingly David has also suggested that the outcome may be that you cant deliver and will issue a credit. Well that is appalling. Do Freemans simply wish to earn a reputation for destroying xmas and walking away. I will be interested to see how you advertise that.
I look forward to your reply




I hope that works.... but we will see!!!!!!!

Xmas and everything (Freemans mail order are crap)

Well its been ages since I wrote on here.

Christmas is ongoing, we had all five kids and my sister on Christmas day so there was a full house. Party at dad's tonight, I am doing my best to destroy my liver :-)

The job at Tesco is ongoing and enjoyable! Although as always the search for the next project is underway as this one should end in Feb/March. Still its fun so far.

The customer service story of Christmas is a bad one, and the award for delivering the worst customer service has to go to Freemans Catologue. On 9th December my Wife ordered my Xms present. On the 11th she was told it had been dispatched. All good so far. By the 19th, no delivery. Ellie phone Freemans who said its on route and will be here for Xmas. 22nd, still not here, Freemans said it will arrive no later than 24th. On the 24th they said it will arive by 5.30pm. You know it never arrived!!! Still hasn't!!!!

On 28th they began an Investigation!!!!!!!!!! Then at 9.30pm they phoned and the young man siad he want to talk to m about the camera (no you may have guessed that upto this point I didn't know what the gifts was). He offered £10 off our next order as compensation!!! Insult. He then offered a manage call back. At 12.00 today........ still no call. I phoned them. Amazingly, no record of the call. I must have imagined it.

They now say that they may never get it delivered and that the may issue a credit.Quality customer service. I asked for the mane of the CEO and David (the supervisor) said..... wait for it this is classic... They dont have one!!! Then after pushing he offeredup the name Tony Hill.

The morale dont buy from Freeman's.. They dont give a toss

New day new assignment

Hello

Yesterday I started a new assignment as Head of Service Delivery for Tesco Telecom. It seems a good place and the work is very much in my field, so confidence is pretty high.

It has been great to move almost seemlessly from one project to the next. This kids can expect a decent Christmas now.

On sadder fronts, the reds are out of the champions league and poor Alaska has been unwell having somehow cut her paw. The stress in life is always delivered from somewhere.

I have the kids coming to stay this weekend and so in the main things look good.

Report back later

End of contract

Well yesterday was the last day at Turn2us and the search for a new contract once again intensifies.

Its strange that for all the bad days along the way, the frustrations and the irritations, at the end of the contract, you look back and say; that wasn't so bad after all.

I never fail to be amazed at the friends that get found along the way. Turn2us didn't start as the friendliest or happiest place I had worked. But slowly the smiles came. I hope I played my part in delivering some laughs, the kind words yesterday suggested so. Particular thanks for thier help and I hope freindship must go to Bridget McCall, Kevin Clarke, Sadie Constable, Jo Daly, Lindsay Morgan and Natalie Fredriksen. I hope we will all stay in touch. Thank you for my gift.

Good luck to Emma Ward, you will be fine and I am sure will make a great success in your new role.

Monday will bring the realisation that I dont have any work, but this blog begun as a result of the desparation I felt when last out of work. Today I feel confidence and a willingness to search and find my next opportunity. It is gratifying that my client has confirmed that I have completed all my objectives and that they would both reference me and bring me back when required.

Finally I would like to thanks Jonathan Welfare CEO for his kind words and Alison Taylor for understanding that throughout the journey any battles and disputes, were entirley as a result of a desire to deliver the best, from both our positions

God luck

Question time and other things

Well, here we are again. Its been a busy few days. I have been desperately trying to get all next weeks work up to date, so as to facilitate a week off with my children. I had previously promised them holidays at easter and in the summer and so this half term was non-negotiable if I wished to remain aknowledged as their Daddy.

I have managed it and we will therefore be heading to a farm in the peak district. however they have not yet been told.... I have to have my bit of tormenting fun.

But before we do anything, i have the annual Hazelmere versus Bletchley golf match tomorrow at Aylesbury Park GC. It looks like the waterproofs may be required.

The talking point in the office today, quite rightly, is last nights question time. As I am sure you know it featured the totally deluded Nick Griffin, leader of the BNP (or Dick Griffin as one wit in the audience called him). This man is a blight on the world. His views are abhorrent and his smug face is the sort you would never tire of smacking. He, like all fanatics truly believes that he and his band of facist nutters are right and the vast majority of the population of the country are wrong. Sounds a bit like he thinks he is the only soldier marching in tune to the music.

Today he has even had the nerve to suggest that the location of last nights programme was unfair as "London is to cosmipolitan to be considered a true British City". Someone get the straight jacket and the rubber baton!!!!!

Rant over!!!

Well my contract is now finally in its last few weeks. I will once again be out of work and looking for an assignment from 16/11/09. Lets hop that this time it is not as long and that this blog doesn't need to return to the dark days of June and early July

Bye for now

Oh Life

Oh god, I have had man flu, infected eye, infected ankle and now back to man flu over the last few weeks. Thats not including the infamous wasp sting. But I am a Matyr and therefore I have battled through and still working

There have been some strange goings on though. I went to look at a new potential car on Saturday, only to look you understand!! However the sweet talking sales man convinced me of the deal and guess what? I signed up.

Now here is were the complication comes, although I am investing over 40% of the price through part exchange and deposit, the finance company still want to know the ins and outs of...... well you know. It is so frustrating, thereis enough in the bank to buy the damn thing outright, but I remember the first 6 months of this year and I not risking that again by spending my regained savings.

So onto the search for my next contract. I have had three meetings with potential clients in the last few days. They have varied from really forward thinking empathetic private equity based company to compassionate driven and ambitious charity. That said in between there was arrogant, self satisfied, souless blue chip. I wont name them but the individual involved knows.

Lets hope number 1 or 3 comes up with something.

Urgent Knowledge Management Need

Please share this requirement.

I have an urgent need for an innovative knowledge management expert in the UK. Interim or Consultant. please contact 07794405796 or davemdarcy@aol.com

Market moves

Good morning,

Well its Wednesday, half way through another week. I am now edging ever closer to the end of my contract. It is always strange that when the agreed terms of reference task is almost complete, the little associated tasks keep coming. I am now recruiting for my permanent replacement. I have attached a link to the role "Helpline Development Manager". Please let me know if this is of interest to you or anyone else you may know

http://www.turn2us.org.uk/media_centre/helpline_manager.aspx

Throughout my career both in permanent and interim roles, I have grown ever more amazed at a particular phenomenon. It is the effect Directors/board members/trustees have on the normal workforce. Why is it that when a board meeting is due, the world seems to go into meltdown. Normally sane and competent professional individuals regress to scared ten year olds waiting at the headmasters door. People who can normally communicate detailed and complex issues within thier area of expertise, suddenly become rabbits trapped in the headlights, at the prospect of having to present to the board. There are many thoughts I have on this subject, but most are common sense. so here goes

• These board members are only human
• They share your goal to deliver whats best for the business
• You are probably more expert in your specific field than most of them are. Thats why they employ you
• They really dont care what kind of biscuits they get

I have recently witnessed 5 members of staff dedicate almost a complete days work to cutting sandwiches, replacing used with clean glasses etc. The meeting agenda had 27 items. Priorities please!!!!!!!

I have now had my company advert published in CCF magazine and online on at

http://www.callcentre.co.uk/c/portal/layout?p_l_id=60455&categoryId=59537&categoryName=Call%20Centre%20Consultancy

I hope this will drive increased traffic to my website www.callen-cm.co.uk and in turn drive enquiries and business

Best

Dave

PAIN!!!!

Hi all,

Its been a very busy few weeks. I have neary completed the introduction of Case Management t Turn2us. It has been quite a ride, but is very satisfying to see it come into shape. I have also further extended the scope of the CRM tool and will be pleased to see the increased detail in the management info.

Well the search for my next assignment has begun in earnest. I feel much more comfortable than last time. There is certainly more work out there and I am already getting some calls and inquiries and have had early discussions with two companies

All that good news is then tempered with real pain. I spent last night in Stoke Mandeville Hospital. I have an infection in my ankle joint its an 8 out of 10 pain (I say that because I have had kindney stones, and so recognise 10 out of 10 pain).

I am on cruches and feeling sorry for myself, so may need a beer

write soon!!

Been a while

Hi everyone,

Its been a long time since I last posted. I think its truly indicative of the slow bust steady improvement in the work environment.

Its amazing but I am now mor than two thirds of the way through the original contract that I started in July. Much of the original scope will be fully delivered within the next two weeks. There seems to be an appetite for me to remain, however the feeling from me is that there is much more to be done and frankly not sufficient understanding of the scale.

I have seen some serious networking over the last few weeks. I have re-contacted two colleagues from many years ago and seen real hope and reminders formed in meeting some of the people who shaped the man and the manager I am now.

A good friend and colleague reminded me yesterday that "if you are unhappy with something or somewhere that you are, make a change" We all have the power and ability to make our lot better. Some of us choose to take it.

I have been speaking to four different organisations about possible interim or consulting opportunities. In both the public and private sector. The indicators are there that the economy is gaining confidence. I have also been approached about a couple of permanent roles. I have to say they are not without temptations.

The football season is back (albeit the reds have not started well) The cold mornings and dark nights are almost upon us. The summer may have been tough but I feel the festive season when its arrives may be better this time around... lets hope so

York to Ashes

Friday morning sat in the office, a little quiet today! Still the weekend is before us. I am having some difficulty in getting colleagues aligned on priorities, It may be a charity thing but it appears that most people only seem to deal with one item at a time. So for example, as we have a data base upload due next week, we can User acceptance test and essential software upgrade until there is a resource available that can juggle 2 balls!!!! Excuse the sarcasm!

I have had a great week at York a 10-1 winner a 25-1 winner and two good priced places. I am about 150 points up, fantastic. If only the England cricket team could sort the Aussies at the Oval.

Its my Great Aunts 80th birthday party tomorrow. I love her dearly, but its very hard to get excited about an afternoon of entertaining OAP's. I cant even have a beer as its a drive home after.

Oh well

From Wasps to work

Morning all,

Its Tuesday and the weather in London is Glorious. What a few day's I have been through, but what lessons of behaviour, life and the universe. First of all, does anyone else know how painful a wasp sting is? I didin't. I do now. One of the buggers stung the back of my head on Sunday as I attempted to save my Daughters bike from the nest she had parked it on. My goodness, two day's later I can still feel it.

But one good thing that came from it was the evidence of how neighbourly and friendly people you have never met can be. A lady with a pram came by as I tried to recover the bike and suffered the sting. She walked home and then returned with some wasp killer spray and an antihistemin cream for me. I offered to by her and her little one a drink with my family afterwards and she politely refused but I am very grateful. Then a man came by and as long as my lad held his dog, he happily help me remove the bike as we sprayed like professional exterminators (perhaps a new profession)

Yesterday was of course the start of a new week. The project at Turn2us charity continues a pace. As is always the case, however, I am of course now concerning myself with what I do after this piece of work completes. Oh the life of an interim/consultant

Away from wasps and work. The football season has returned -yeh. Unfortunately the reds failed to produce on Sunday and so we await the might of Stoke on Wednesday. The USPGA golf was fantastic and the £5 bet at 20/1 on Y.E. Yang was a very welcome start to the week. The Ebor meeting starts at York today and so I am back to tips - Today Elusive Pimpernel

Mixed old world

My God, what a strange old time. Work is very much busy one day quiet the next. Still since i started I have saved over £80,000 for the charity by negotiating better terms with suppliers. I only hope this will lead to a reputation and more work.

I have had my eldest daughter staying with us for a little over a week, its been great to haveher around. On Thursday she was joined by her sisters and we have all had a great weekend with glorious weather. A party at Dad's on Friday and then bbq's yesterday and today. The pool in the garden is getting plenty of use by the 5 kids and most of the neighbours kids too. Its just as well that Ellie doesn't mind being the hostess with the juice jug and ice lollies.

One down side is that we took Alaska for a walk around the lake and the kids al took their bikes, but one of them left the bike right by a wasp nest. I had to play the hero to save it and got stung on the head and above my eye. Wasp stings bloody hurt, let me tell you!!!

I have some exciting stuff going on at the mment with some really leading edge ECO technology for call centres. really excited about the opportunity as this will lead to high quality customer service at a much reduced cost to serve for the provider and a global benefit in terms of carbon footprint. If anyone is interested email me at davemdarcy@aol.com or callencustomer@blackberry.orange.co.uk or via my website www.callen-cm.co.uk

glorious

What a beauiful weekend we are having. The sun is out, I have filled the small pool in the garden for the kids and last night we had a bbq. Who would have thought th possible in England in August lol.

Amazing how positive I saound now that there is money in the bank... Although Ellie will help me rectify that. There is a list of things that we "need".

Fabulous customer experience from Orange again yesterday. Jackie O'Leary has to be very pleased with the ongoing performance of her team. I visited the Aylesbury store and was first served by Michael, to deal with the infamous faulty Blackberry. He made a quick call and arranged for a replacement phone to be delievered today after 6pm. Thats right on a Sunday. How's that for a service. Then spoke to Gemma about adding my wifes phone to my account. She spent 10 minutes agreeing a tarrif and advising on handsets. Ellie left the shop with a fancy touchscreen LG and a smile. I was pretty pleased too as the move away from a PAYG vodafone account has saved me £30 a month and as I've added it to the business account, its tax deductable.

Positive Positive stuff. Shame about the bloody cricket team

The time it does fly

My god, I cant believe that it is a week since I last updated the blog. I must be busy? Well..... actually I am. I feel like I am right back in the real world. The diary is full and the work load is growing. But will I complain? ..... Of course I will, I am human after all. In seriousness, though, it is great to be getting my teeth in to some serious task's. So far I have negotiated a substantial contract extension at a reduced cost and have agreed a project plan and budget and am now starting on the delivery. Also outsourced the IT management and saved another circa 20k a year. I am good :-)

On the mention of teeth... had two visits to the dentist this week. That is the best job. You sit someone down, inflict pain, ask them inane questions, when you know they cant answer and then to top it all you charge them a bloody fortune.

Seen some extreme's of customer service this week. I have been dealing with a company who know that they are not trully prepared for a market launch and know what they should do. But are going to launch anyway, because the milestone report target date say's they have to. Incredible... The message is "Its better to be on time and crap than to get it right and be a bit later" Its like the first picture phones at VF all over again. Is it better to be first to market or best to market---- Discuss

Also had the joys of First Great Western on Wednesday. Now this is a company that really could use www.callen-cm.co.uk Talk about make a customers journey difficult, no flexability, no customer communication, no smiling staff. Why do people keep going to work to do a job they so clearly hate. Life is too short.

The Nuffield thing has gone quiet. I've been too busy to chase it and they clearly dont give a stuff about their customers. I will get around to dealing with it, but I suspect it will be by taking my custom elsewhere.

As for good service, well regular readers will remember me praising the chap in the Orange shop some 6 weeks ago. Ah well, the phone broke, has to be replaced, lost all the data. Something there about the lesson learned to back up data!!!!!! And to top it all, the store cant provide a loan phone, even though I have spent over £1500 with them this year. So not a great repeat experience after all.

Of course I should point out that I believe the phone fault may have been linked to my walk with Alaska yesterday. I got caught in a rain storm. very wet. My shirt was stuck to everywhere it touched (don't dwell on the mental image). I suspect water damage. And the phone wont be great either.

Till next time cheers

My wife must be a prisoner

The Nuffield saga goes on. Nothing from the CEO and thankfully nothing from very rude James. However the GM from Aylesbury called my home earlier and spoke to my wife. She (the GM) said she was very disturbed, but not as you might imagine that we are unhappy, but that we didn't tell her. She seems to have overlooked the fact that every previous time I have spoken to her she has done nothing other than talk over me and interupt.

The best bit though, is that she wants to meet with me to discuss the situation and ............ wait for it.......... this is classic......... my wife can come too, as long as I say its ok.

Oh I laughed I can just imagine Ellie's face as she heard that. This may come as a surprise but I dont own my wife, we are a partnership and i recognise that I am only the head of my house because she say's I can be.

I wonder which dickensian world the GM is from. The companies service might be crap but they are great comedians

My Rant continues

At risk of sounding like a one tune act, I am back onto Nuffield, I still cant get my head around their complete apathy to the situation. I have found a piece on the web that intersted me. I have pasted it below


"There's much more to our centres than a run on the treadmill. We provide a friendly and warm atmosphere, the perfect enviornment for the entire family to come and escape the stresses and strains of every day life.
We also recognise the importance of allowing parents some 'me-time' to focus on their own fitness and wellbeing, whilst we entertain the kids"

Guess where I found that?........................... Thats right... on Nuffield fitness and wellbeing's own website. Obviously James in customer service hasn't read that and niether has the general manager at Aylesbury

PRICELESS

Nuffiled Health and Fitness get worse

I'm on a high horse now, and that coupled with the bee in my bonnet is not a good mix. Nuffield Health Clubs are surley the winners of the "couldn't give a toss" award for no customer care.

The chap who's voicemail yesterday told me he was at lunch, got back today (long lunch). His name was James and he started quite well telling me that he had some feedback. This consisted of telling me that there were not enough children in the club to warrant childrens activities. However there were too many children in the club to allow them to be unaccompanied in the rest area. AMAZING

He constantly talked over me, referred only to Terms and Conditions, acknowledged that we had a family membership, but said that we didint actually pay anything for the kids and so they didn't have to provide anything. He then told me that I couldn't raise any other issues as I hadn't told him of them at the start of the call. Brilliant, I must incorprate that into my customer strategy.

I have identified the CEO. Mr KP Doyle. I have emailed him via linkedin, but no response as yet.

The organisation has no customer focus. My god they are in a service industry. They need help.

Stunned

Customer service - Nuffield Health Clubs have never heard of it

Oh to be a customer service professional. As a member of Nuffield Fitness and Wellbeing, I suddenly feel an urge to offer them the services of Callen Customer Management Ltd www.callen-cm.co.uk. I can not believe how poor their service and route to contact are. First they consistently fail to meet their promises or my expectations and then they make it nearly impossible to address them on the issue.

I am a member of their health club in Aylesbury, We have a family membership..... You may guess what this includes.... There is a clue in the name. Its the summer holiday's, so guess what? They have cancelled all childrens activities. Its like inviting the parish priest to play golf on a Sunday morning (Sorry father Kevin). Better than this the genius general manager has decided to ban children from the public areas of the club unless accompanied by an adult. So basically my wife and I cant use the facilities (unless we are swimming & bring the kids in) for the next six weeks. You wont be surprised to hear ..... They are still taking the direct debit.

Oh yeah and the swimming........ apart from the fat girls jumping (I am told this is actually called Aqua arobics) they have locked away all the floats balls and toys. So the kids hate it any way.

I have tried to complain but they dont publish a number to customer services on the website and simply direct you back to the incompetent back at the club..... Mind blowing

Oh to identify the CEO

going well

Two weeks into the job. So far I have reviewed processes and contracts and renegotiated a deal saving ove 50k ..... so thats me paid for for the three months.

Big day today. St Thomas Aquinas Golf Society annual championship. The sun is out and I have polished the clubs, so lets hope

nearly done

Well its Thursday evening so the first full week or work in 6 months is almost done. I'm knackered! I have conjunctivitus and a headache, but I am so glad to be back working. Its always so interesting to see how different companies operate, and this assignment is no different.

I visited a small outsource partner yesterday and was really quite impressed, I am confident that there are areas we can improve for the overall operation and am looking forward tothe challenge.

Additionally we have the start of the second ashes test today and England seem to be starting well. Then on top of that The Open is under way at Turnberry. Should be a great weekend

Th Big Day

Well, its The night before the big day. I start my new contract tomorrow.... Cant wait... So tonight I'm gonna eit back watch Top Gear and have a drink, then an early night and ready for the big start

The journey back

Well its been a strange few days. I have been through even more changing emotions. Although its great to have the new contract to start, the time off makes you pessimistic. This has led to concerns about the job till it starts. That said I now have signed and returned the contract and have recieved a stack of reading material, so the deal feels good.

I have spent today doing my company accounts, so that I have a clean slate to start from. One of the negatives of downtime has been that it drives a lethargic approach. So although I have had time to do the business housekeeping, I haven't had the inclination. All my time has been spent searching for work and so until that proved positive it was a viscious circle.

I have had so many messages of support and congratulations from friends and colleagues over the last week or two. I am so grateful. I intend to keep the blog going for those that are interested, although work commitments may make postings a little less frequent. You have no idea how good that sounds.

I have been going swimming everyday for the last two weeks, as it was too hot for the gym. That said it had been hard to get motivated for the gym lately. It is strange that now I am concerning myself about when I migt fit in the gym from next week. What a strange world

Back soon

still warm

Well its been a little while since I posted a message. So I thought I would just take a fe minutes to check in. It still hot in Bucks although there is a little more air. Alaska still cant cope with a full walk but she is getting a bi more energetic.

We bought a paddling pool for the kids which has added to the dogs fun.

It is great to be talking about something other than work.

the day

I am delighted to report that today I won a 3 month interim contract in London. I am delighted

Special thanks

I just wanted to adda line about the support I have been recieving. It is a real boost to know that people are reading the blog and sending messages of supoort. If you join me regularly please click the follow button and feel free to add comments. Please keep the mails coming

hott hot hot

My god the temperature is great, but this humidity is incredible. I have the windows and doors open, if there was a breath of wind my house would be like a wind tunnel.

As seems to be the case "good day - bad day" today has broken the mould. Yesterday was relatively positive with some interesting calls and mails. So I woke this morning expecting a nightmare day (possibly fuelled by the expectation of a 2nd visit to jobcentreplus). But I have a number of contacts to thank for a positive start to the day. First Dave Hopkins, who i need to call back soon for his interest. Gill Connelly for thinking of me when asked about candidates for an interim role. Linda Wilkins for her kind words and offer of support. JayneHall for here support. These people and others do make it worth carrying on and without their encouragement and support it would all be much harder.

I am seeing quite a lot of new roles advertised and am applying for 6 - 8 a day on average. Consultants mut know my CV by heart now. Hopefully they will get me a job just so I leave them alone

On real positives I have an interview for an interim role at 10am n London tomorrow and then two meetings in London on Thursday (shame I couldn't tie them all together).

Well please all keep your fingers crossed for me and keep an eye out for anything.

Tips today are both at Brighton

2.30 jonny ebeneezer

3.00 rocky's pride

Late tip

As its Wimbledon week Rain delayed 18.50 at Tipperary

Very short price though

Another sunny day

This cant be right? We are now on day 4 of Wimbledon and still no rain. I worked at the championships for 5 years in the 90's and never had a rain free time. Closer to home the childrens school have their summer picnic this lunchtime.... cant wait !!!!!

So by 8.30 this morning I had applied for 4 jobs. Thanks to Andreas Nita for one lead. I have also distributed my cv to over 100 recruitment agencies in the last 24 hours. I genuinely dont believe that there is anything more I could do. I would be happy to hear ideas.

The horses were rubbish yesterday.... sorry. today we will try Pawan in the 2.45pm at Warwick and Lady Jane Digby - 5.00pm - Newcastle

good luck

Another day

Its a glorious sunny day in Bucks. I am trying to look on the positive. It's odd how I seem to alternate between very bad days and more positive ones. I had a couple of good calls yesterday. One to discuss a possible interim role with a charity and another to discuss a possible programme director role for a large telco. The trouble is I then spend the nxt day worrying why I haven't heard anything.

I had a number of good contacts provided within a major broadband and phone business as well so I am now following that up.

I really hop things start to turn, I can clearly see the impact of this time on my wife and family. The sense of failure is bad enough when it is a job but its unbearable when its impacting the family.

When I started this blog the aim was to maintain some humour. That is now becoming a challenge as those that read it must be sensing. I promise I haven't lost my sense of humour yet, but it is currently well hidden.

Tips for today are

Everard in the 3.15 at Salisbury and Shadowtime in the the 3.05 at Carlisle.

:-)

Tough times

The last few days have been especially testing. I have continued to apply for roles all over the UK and still have little sign of an improving market, although I have associates who tell me that things are improving. Finacnially this is now becoming a real issue. As I covered in an earlier blog post, I have now registered as unemployed. This has been a lesson in understanding just how broken our country and welfare system are. It is clearly designed to encourage people to lie. I have stated that I have nor worked for an extended period of time and that I have been living off of my expenses. This is apparently the wrong thing to do as it is right to claim benefit immediately that you stop work and therefore rely on the state. My error appears to be that I was foolish enough to believe I would find work and that I would not need to rely on the state. Now that this has not happened, my home is at risk, my family including 5 children must go without thing, my creditors will go unpaid. Yet during this time had I immediatley put the responsability in the hands of other tax payers, I would by now have recieved over £5k in benefits, perfectly legitimately. However because I chose to maintain responsability I am not entitled.

The world is mad.

Mixed day

Well guys, what a mixed day. As touched on I had the dreadful task of attending Job centre plus. It comes to something when even these places say "we probably cant help you, because we tend to only deal with low level jobs". Poor Alaska has been poorly and so been to the vet. Cant believe 5 minutes in the room £68 lighter. It never rains but it pours.

On a more positive.. Rainbow View placed at Ascot. I have some e/w success on a couple of others so the account hasn't been to battered.

I have applied for 8 consulting roles today, we will see what happens. I also had a call from Ali Courtney at Virgin. I wrote to Sir Richard Branson some months ago and he put me in touch with Michael Murphy. Michael has in turn suggested Ali and she has called to offer help. It just shows that sometimes persistance pays off.

I also recieved an invite to an interim management website and blog http://blog.interimmanagementjobs.net/ it has an excellent article covering the impact of pro rata payments in the interim market. I recommend a look.

I will be back later with tomorrows tips

Yeats 4 years on the trot

Well, the tips yesterday produces a winner and a second. Yeats won the Ascot Gold cup for the 4th year.

The job search continues, yesterday I applied for 6 jobs, I also had a tip from Steve Sullivan (many thanks) regarding an interim contract in London. Having applied to the consultancy...... it appears there is a hold on candidates for a few days. Interestingly I had a very hush hush tip of a role in a company I cant name with a consultant I cant name and when applying for the role, I cant suggest that I know it exists. As if finding workng isn't proving difficult enough, I now have behave like a character in spooks.

The financial situation is now desperate and so for the first time in 24 years, I am heading to the job centre today to register unemployed. I know this is something that many people are doing but there really is something demeaning about it. It feels a little like accepting defeat.

I have a golf day tomorrow with an interim management networking group. I hope it will bring about some contacts that leads to some work. I also hope the weather is better than that in New York for the US Open.

Today we only have one tip.

3.45 Ascot - Rainbow View

Good luck to everyone

Nearly

2nd in the big race today... so close... I went to the eye hospital today and got told there was nothing wrong, yet they put drops in my eyes that made me chooe looser's. figure that ot? No answer needed Mr Murley.


For tomorrow ....... after some thought..... we willl go ...

I like Chiberta king in tha last race at Ascot... Its hard to ignore Yeats in the 3.45 and if you follow the americans form Yogaroo in the 2.30

Cheers for now

Wednesday tips at Ascot

Moonlife in the 5.30 at Ascot

and

Misheer - 4.55 - Ascot

Gloomy Tuesday

Oh what a difference a day makes!

Today has been truly misserable, the trip to Somerset yesterday resulted in no offer of work. It is so frustrating that people are telling me things are picking up but there are no signs personally. I am trying very hard to remain positive and to keep telling myself that I have a great deal to offer people. As the Blog address suggests, I frequentley recieve compliments about my CV, my experience and my skills. This is all very flattering, however my ego needs stroking less than my finances need work.

On top of all this the Ascot tips have been truly dreadful. Tday was a complete wipe out.

I really would encourage readers of this blog to share it with others and to feel free to contact me with any tips that I may have missed or an not following through.

On a lighter note I heard a story yesterday about a guy who lives across the road from his mother - in - law. Over the weekend she was run over by a lorry. He thought to himself "that could have been me" then he remembered ...... he cant drive a lorry hehehehehehehe, it tickled me.

I will offer up some Ascot tips later, and hope they are better

back again

evening everyone,

Sorry for the delay in updating, we had a bit of a virus issue.

I have so much to update. I had an interview in Somerset this morning. Why do companies insist on telling you of the senior individual you will meet, and then put you in front of someone else? Is this an act of diliberance or just mismanagment of diaries. None the less I hope things went well, but if so I will be returinig to the west country mid week and then again on Saturday, although that is for golf.

On a real positive, I went into a mobile network retail store this afternoon to check if there was a more suitable pay plan for me as I never use my minutes or text but over spend on data. Stuart in the store checked things out and changed my plan, reducing my charge by plenty. He also upgraded my phone to the new top of the range "Blackberry" and sorted out my direct debit. I am totally impressed and so should Ms O'leary (director of CS at the company)be. I will be telling her.

I feel, for no good reason quite possitive tonight. It may be the red wine or it could be that I am determined not to be dragged down. Who knows?

On the horse front, its Ascot starting tomorrow so what about the tips????

Alexandros in the 2.30pm at Ascot - get on eary and think each way if the price is good enough

away from Ascot try

Lady Rangali - 4.00pm - Thirsk

good luck to all

sorry for no updates

Sorry to everyone there have been no updates as I hve suffered a virus issue. Thankfully it seems sorted now and we will soon be backto normal.

Great minds???

Two people sent me this tonight so it must be right

“I was asked what I thought about the recession. I thought about it and decided not to take part.”Sam Walton, Founder of Wal-Mart

PERFECT!!!

I choose not to be part of this recession.. In the same way i worked with a guy in Ireland (Colm Tracey.. Your credit) who when asked "how are you?" alway's said "wonderful" when questioned as to why he would say "Its a state of mind". I didn't always get on with Colm, but I always loved this.

It's a shit world at the moment but.... you only fail if you give in to circumstance. As the mighty Bono sang " Your stuck in a moment that you can't get out of" but he also sang "It's just a moment, it'll pass"

Who needs the gospel,,,, say's the catholic lad.


Sorry about today's tips. Mine were both 3rd. Therese's choice is either at McDonalds or the Evo stick factory...lol

Credit where due

I had a mail from someone who read the blog and suggested that I occassionally make the horse tip "job search" based and so as a starter the suggestion is

Chosen One 13.25 Nottm

Thanks to Therese

where has the summer gone

Hello,

Lets start with the horses. Another poor day yesterday, but just like the job search it is important to carry on. So here goes for today

Highcliffe bridge - 2.50pm - Yarmouth

and

Fallen in love in the 2.40pm at Newbury

Well the big news of yesterday must be the economy. There is a highly regarded economist group saying that the economy grew through April and May. Additionally the housing prices seem to be stabilising. Its encouraging to think that things may be heading towards the end of the decline. Of course this doesn't help until the companies in the country start to feel confidnt enough to hire permanent staff or begin projects that require interims or consultants. On a positive point, some of the most negative people I know have started to make positive noises about the future (there you go Ali and Peter).

Of course the reverse of that is that on Wednesday I was contacted on behalfof a leading Telco, who was looking to hire upto five "Change Management" interims. By today those roles are on hold. You have to wonder about the thought and decision making process?

The sun is back out in Bucks (It's so bright it scares me). It must be one of the biggest certainties in life that we get a scorching week in May followed by a return to winter in early June. This allows the press to muse over whether Wimbledon will be a wash out or not. But the sun is back and so lets hope that this time it stays a while. I have my daughters staying this weekend and as we dont live in a country mansion, it is so much easier if I can send the monsters (little darlings) outside to play.

The excitement is starting to build on the sporting front as the cancelled under 9's football from last weekend has been re-scheduled for Sunday. Cant wait!!!!!!

Good luck on the tips today

One step forward...........

Tuesday felt a lot less positive. It's strange, I have found thatI get a god day and it is followed by a poor one. It isn't that anything particularly negative happened, in fact I had two further discussions about possible interim roles. It was just that time allows me to think of the reasons why an employer may not want me. Dont get me wrong I know that I offer an exceptional level of experience skill and ability, but like the centre forward who hasn't scored for 6 months, you start to doubt whether you still can. Conversely, when the ball bounces in off your back side...... you are off and running again. I am sure I just need the back side goal!!!

Today I have already applied for a job at Skype. If nothing else his blog is providing evidence of a job search going on :-)

The horses where rubbish yesterday, so please accept my apologies. I did select a tricast at Belle view dogs and it won, however current financial situation meant that I didn't actually back it.... on the frustration.

Today's tips are

Annes Rocket in the 2.20pm at Brighton

and

Vanishing Grey - 2.40pm - Haydock

Best of luck o those who dare

Tuesday's tips

La Gifted in the 4.30pm at Salisbury

and

Folletta in the 1.40 at Salisbury

Monday again

Hi,

Its Monday again. Today feels quite productive, have applied for 7 posts and have recieved calls from two potential clients/companies that may be positive. Its always good when there is a day like this. I liken it to the golf course. Its amazing that one good approach shot on the 18th is enough to encourage you back next tme, however bad the rest of the round has been.

There was a lesson learned today.Over a year ago I spoke with a company in Holland about a potetial role. At the time the move wasn't quite right for me, so I withdrew, but the role was very interesting. Well today I was approached by a head hunter who has the same role back on the market. He felt my skills where perfect. I hope the recruiter will accept that my circumstances are different now and that we can open dialogue again. But the lesson is to keep on keeping on.

Other good news today is that the car was in the repair garage and when I collected it from PB Cars in Aylesbury, Steve, the owner said "No charge Dave" it only took a few minutes. Well I know that over the last year I have spent a lot of money with Steve. But his one act of kindness has secured my loyal custom for the future and now I am telling the world. So if you want a good fair honest mechanic in the Bucks area. let me know and I'll point you Steve's way.

On the tips front .... we had two seconds today. Tomorrrows tips to follow

Horses for Monday

Ok guys the tips for Monday are

4.45 Folkstone - Time machine

and

5.15 Folkstone - Jo'Burg

Relaxing Sunday

Well the horse where a let down, a second was best we could manage. The rain fell all night last night and called for the cancelation of the under 9's football. So had a lazy day. Walk Alaska around the lake and went for a Thai lunch with Ellie. Spent the afternoon on the sofa with the papers.

Gotta get back to it tomorrow so a full day of job searchig on the horizon. I may interupt it to resume my visits to the gym.

I really feel that something positive has to come out of this period and that I have much to offer a client or employer if they would only take the risk. It is very difficult to maintain the battle when the overiding mood is one of letting family down. But the battle must continue.

Tomorrows horses will be published later

Sundays tips

Feels All Right in the 4.35 at Chantilly

and

Shamakiya - 3.15 - Chantilly

Sundays tips

derby success

Hey guy's

I hope people got on my Derby tips. winner and eachway paid out. JP... I hope your listening lol.
As its the weekend ther has been no job searching but a good freind did send a great lead my way (thanks to Alison Owen). For those who care about the major golf comp. It was wet and poor. wee Jacky and Big Charlie took the prize.

Tomorrow's big sporting event is at Halton for the under 9's football. My step son ( Steven Gerrard of Hercules Lions) is the big attraction. I will report back..

special meantions

I promised special mentions for checking the blog........ so hi Jane and sexy Dawn

derby day

Ok guy's,

what a day, spent it sending more emails in search of work. Had some great response from early viewers of the blog. So thanks to those that have commented. Alaska is chuffed, 3 walks, although in fairness the last was to buy cigars for me. Life is about compromise.
She has the oldest most battered football in the world, a real old school job, like your dad played with...... loves it. Spent a hour chucking it around the garden for her. people say dogs are clever.....hello?

My step son has decided that he wants a Range Rover Sport... so no additional pressure.

Golf tee off is at 8 something in the morning and the red wine is not easily fitting with that. But more importantly the Derby Day tips are

3.45 Derby --- Sea the stars

although as an each way I fancy Masterofthehorse

3.00 --- Safari Mischief

I hope they are better than today, although we did have a really close miss

I really welcome feedback guys, so please let me know

Better tips

In light of the bad start on tips... for those interested its worth looking at www.blockedshot.co.uk. Ratform is quite good but only follow horses.lol.

Tip results

Sooooo close for Youzmain pipped on the line. Maybe better tomorrow

In the begining

Its Friday. Another week has passed and many job applications, emails and phonecalls have been completed. Tenacity must be a quality? otherwise I'm really gonna start getting on peoples tits. It is now almost 6 months since this dreadful journey began. I never imagined at Christmas as the kids played "Rock Hero" (my god the rows) that I would be still sitting at home in June. Dont get me wrong its been great to have a break and until the money started running out I was enjoying it. I had a great break in Loch Lomond for my 40th. Its just a number you know? My beautiful wife and I enjoyed our 3rd anniversary on the QM2 and then she let me go to Spain with the boys for golf. The less said about that the better, maybe on a later posting. But now I really want to work again.

I know I am not alone in this situation, but hey, there are companies out there they need to improve their service and thatare too scared to buy the resource. I even dropped my rates and I'll even consider working for anyone (within reason).

But these postings are not just about the misery. I will be sharing the happy stuff too. Like the carzy dog. She is great, but I am sure her moods are in total polar position to my own. For some reason she believes that at 7am when I am asleep this is the best time to show e her affection by jumping on the bed and licking my face. yet at 7pm when I through the ball she sits there looking at me with a look that says "you go get it fat boy, you could use the exercise"

Well what about todays big news. No not the economy, no not the local elections or the crumbling UK government. Not even the massive debt at the great LFC. No today's big news is that "Hannah Montana" the movie is re-showing in Camberely. Well at least that's what my middle daughter says.

For me the excitement for the weekend is the Derby Meeting starting today, tips below!!!! and the big sporting occassion of the weekend is at Aylesbury Park Golf Club tomorrow morning. My self, Wee Jacky (my dad) Big Charlie and Angry Kev, will meet to decide the big prize --- Loser buys the beer. I will of course report back tomorrow.

Cheers

Dave

Tips

Epsom 1.40 Lovelace
Epsom 2.45 Youmzain