About last night...

<div align="center">The bewitching hour came around 10pm and as usual, I lost all control. Another day down the tubes. Perfect all day, a great workout in the morning, healthy food in modest portions all day, then at 10pm I was stuffing my face with sugar-free ice cream (I must stop buying this stuff) and pecans (yes, on the ice cream).<br /><br />Tonight was the same dance. My food of choice was Weight Watcher's 1-point caramel snack bars, about ten of them. They don't even taste that good.<br /><br />What the hell is wrong with me?<br /><br />There are a few things different in my life right now that are causing a ton of stress. My job is killing me. I'm angry about a work situation, and I just can't seem to let go of it. I'm struggling with a co-worker that I work very closely with on a daily basis. It's a long, tedious story but basically every day I'm trying to maintain my sanity (and as you can tell, I'm losing that battle).<br /><br />If there was a way out, I'd take it. In this economy that's really not even an option so I have to grin and bear it. This is the worst of times in my job, and I've been through some difficult situations in almost 26 years at this company. This one is one of the most unpleasant I've had to endure.<br /><br />The other thing is my marriage. It's another daily struggle. Tomorrow is our 21st wedding anniversary, and I don't know if we'll make it to year 22. We're fighting, arguing, bickering and generally not getting along. Neither one of us is happy. I really I don't know how to fix it.<br /><br />Right now, I don't know how to fix anything. It all seems so...hopeless.<br /><br /><strong>About the laptop</strong><br />Okay, I'm really loving this sweet little laptop. It's a Toshiba E105-S1602 and was only $799 (but I got $130 discount). It's so awesome. 2.0 Ghz, 4 GB RAM, 500 GB Hard Drive. My most favorite feature is the backlit keys so you can watch TV with the lights off and the keys are lit. It's also super fast. My old laptop that I bought almost five years ago was $2,800. This is ten times the machine than that one was, for a fraction of the cost. Amazing.<br /><br />I was leaning towards the Sony VAIO but the one for the same price as this Toshiba was a stripped down version. To get all the stuff that's on the Toshiba in the Sony was about another $1,000. Not worth it for the Sony name and looks (although, that VAIO sure is pretty).<br /><br />I've already called the Toshiba Help Center and they were great. They're in India, but they all are these days. The tech was super helpful. I accidentally turned of Vista's flash card for the function key and the backlit keys. The guy walked me through what to do and now it's working again. I'm new to Vista so I'm learning (and kind of hating it).<br /><br />So far (only about 24 hours), I'm loving this laptop.<br /><br />~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br />I've taken over 1,000 pictures in the last month. Here are just a few:<br /><br />Picking blueberries in Fairbanks with my favorite nephew<br /></div><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ejnCDPe1AEh33WOorfZJeMLWASnUrez6s23DDlbQcB0510hkDqzwmyeiSph98wSij_Ana9sfmKRQYlVeEr0BkeEnDg4ETDTjqw8baZPdNsRJqmKFLvptGx0S_b3-FwE51U_TWeFj9WeZ/s1600-h/Blueberry+picking.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371556893924562434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ejnCDPe1AEh33WOorfZJeMLWASnUrez6s23DDlbQcB0510hkDqzwmyeiSph98wSij_Ana9sfmKRQYlVeEr0BkeEnDg4ETDTjqw8baZPdNsRJqmKFLvptGx0S_b3-FwE51U_TWeFj9WeZ/s400/Blueberry+picking.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> </p><p align="center">For sale in Nenana for $2.000<br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiea6lm4KVuH43RaG_BiDejUKsfLOhuUl2O6FGS6XD4ZtOVqD_BtfOtxK9KfuDXiQv7G_FUuo52f_zXXU8F4Xl1CbuG0r5PK7oslXf5rYRUcMhIv2Ll3mbMYhpqrH0abWOqK4BVj_i1niaD/s1600-h/2000.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371556631631450722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiea6lm4KVuH43RaG_BiDejUKsfLOhuUl2O6FGS6XD4ZtOVqD_BtfOtxK9KfuDXiQv7G_FUuo52f_zXXU8F4Xl1CbuG0r5PK7oslXf5rYRUcMhIv2Ll3mbMYhpqrH0abWOqK4BVj_i1niaD/s400/2000.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> </p><p align="center">Smoked salmon caught in an Athabascan fishwheel in Nenana<br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLr93nyg1yBBCW5fuvgHogJf5YLZaFE0o4SfW5l2KHEyyBP-8j88HRLhexikU9RZxW8-K_92a8OsPG6PdRcaQG8wpcafE8cq3R5Nl1bS8cYjAwIpJeiylT3-JoajGMskaPXqp3V8yQl35e/s1600-h/Smoked+salmon.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371556434786174994" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLr93nyg1yBBCW5fuvgHogJf5YLZaFE0o4SfW5l2KHEyyBP-8j88HRLhexikU9RZxW8-K_92a8OsPG6PdRcaQG8wpcafE8cq3R5Nl1bS8cYjAwIpJeiylT3-JoajGMskaPXqp3V8yQl35e/s400/Smoked+salmon.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> </p><p align="center">A typical home in Nenana - this belongs to the rich guy in town - thus the sign above the door<br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5w8tU5GGhgflOKFFXDTLSHpu6NaQ074N6fgSmAIPUPWpKPJ80ddLk1YnukBUbb1vEhOH-JF7iJtdKv2M-Zu76q7tyXUO4JToHUGC9bhgw7S7tqvhR7ql6wal5cJ-zT4o1BUQCISXjQMN0/s1600-h/Nenana+Home.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371556180222288498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5w8tU5GGhgflOKFFXDTLSHpu6NaQ074N6fgSmAIPUPWpKPJ80ddLk1YnukBUbb1vEhOH-JF7iJtdKv2M-Zu76q7tyXUO4JToHUGC9bhgw7S7tqvhR7ql6wal5cJ-zT4o1BUQCISXjQMN0/s400/Nenana+Home.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> </p><p align="center">Guns for sale in the local grocery store in Nenana - not even locked up<br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglJ3Tk75RqqowEl3kW4KziXLxGbBpYj7UT_IuU2lEMEx1gpyDNzGsU3WbERnrj-GSQ5JCwEzu1SPbhlgVGfj3En0ILyvbQYYc2TRnsOG7Yy60N8Kc1ZoK4lUnQd8i1iwLfMpfpeoCiQyA5/s1600-h/Guns.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371556005901732674" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglJ3Tk75RqqowEl3kW4KziXLxGbBpYj7UT_IuU2lEMEx1gpyDNzGsU3WbERnrj-GSQ5JCwEzu1SPbhlgVGfj3En0ILyvbQYYc2TRnsOG7Yy60N8Kc1ZoK4lUnQd8i1iwLfMpfpeoCiQyA5/s400/Guns.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> </p><p align="center">Nenana cemetery - I have a thing for cemeteries - long story but they fascinate me<br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimdswKP2z-J-7qV0fLnEmPpHjJPefEh7qxMZ0LdAyWsDNTBFob6tDU4PuklQvq-Fsc7TkpS4-McPQh2obQLaiGvC72Vc3aySPMflk9hBkFobljmhN2tIXk7ZHDa1Kz8ZCPD6R_vi4vEESH/s1600-h/Nenana+Cemetery+2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371555853761677474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimdswKP2z-J-7qV0fLnEmPpHjJPefEh7qxMZ0LdAyWsDNTBFob6tDU4PuklQvq-Fsc7TkpS4-McPQh2obQLaiGvC72Vc3aySPMflk9hBkFobljmhN2tIXk7ZHDa1Kz8ZCPD6R_vi4vEESH/s400/Nenana+Cemetery+2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> </p><p align="center">Nenana cemetery with a view<br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjMaxv7b5IBXALlyeS5RjW0LAlb4EWAfB96zU-vWudhQzxJwx1zrNeqa4u1ODGX8IO9xD8PkZBDimMYWUp5z_Ss78YlZXYfUqg336EmBqfCfd4KwMHPFtZZWtbkQhpkUYgig3a4u3iR-99/s1600-h/Nenana+Cemetery.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371555654171405890" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjMaxv7b5IBXALlyeS5RjW0LAlb4EWAfB96zU-vWudhQzxJwx1zrNeqa4u1ODGX8IO9xD8PkZBDimMYWUp5z_Ss78YlZXYfUqg336EmBqfCfd4KwMHPFtZZWtbkQhpkUYgig3a4u3iR-99/s400/Nenana+Cemetery.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> </p><p align="center">My brother and me, with his dog Goldie...yes, a big Alaskan macho dog...a Pekingnese :)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8TwLO3EUBk9VTb93rWvfXcx5XugWS_aCWAmZlXZ9QPRdUvk2LWoS-_n_cQ_8eAIVTo6xKKWDNadU_5H0qj030BVYWcI3jffQP42AhInmypi35YVaMEA6jEc0XJjGIZMFGNp3kfyUlxRb/s1600-h/Gerald+and+Diana.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371555451421493154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8TwLO3EUBk9VTb93rWvfXcx5XugWS_aCWAmZlXZ9QPRdUvk2LWoS-_n_cQ_8eAIVTo6xKKWDNadU_5H0qj030BVYWcI3jffQP42AhInmypi35YVaMEA6jEc0XJjGIZMFGNp3kfyUlxRb/s400/Gerald+and+Diana.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> </p>

About last night...

The bewitching hour came around 10pm and as usual, I lost all control. Another day down the tubes. Perfect all day, a great workout in the morning, healthy food in modest portions all day, then at 10pm I was stuffing my face with sugar-free ice cream…

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Have You Tried These Interview Tips? - Real job seekers share what works

Have You Tried These Interview Tips? - Real job seekers share what works by Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder.com writer<br /><br />"Dress professionally."<br /><br />"Make eye contact."<br /><br />"Research the company."<br /><br />"Have a firm handshake."<br /><br />Any of these pointers sound familiar? They should because you've heard them thousands of times. While the above suggestions are great (and valid), the truth is that this kind of advice can get a bit generic.<br /><br />We decided to turn the tables and make you -- the job seeker -- the expert. After all, you're the ones out there interviewing, so really, it's not too much of a stretch. We asked you to share what you've found to be successful during your interviews.<br /><br />Check out these interview tips from real job seekers around the country. Have you tried any of them yet?<br /><br />Ask the important questions<br />"One thing I always ask at the end of the interview is, 'Have I said anything that would lead you to believe I'm not the best person for this position?' This gives me an opportunity to clear up any misunderstandings and it also gives me a chance to redeem myself or explain where I am coming from on something. It also shows that if there's a problem, I am capable of fixing it." - Brooke Kelley, magazine editor<br /><br />"During an interview, you are always told to have a set of questions to ask. A question that is helpful, that they do not expect: 'I know you are interviewing a lot of candidates for this position and I'd like to leave this interview feeling like I've done my absolute best. Where do I stand in comparison to the other candidates so far?' shows boldness and that you are aggressive in your job search." - Jeannie Lee, PR manager<br /><br />It's not all about you<br />"The interview is not about the candidate, it's about the job. No matter how great you are as a person or employee, the interviewer is trying to fill a position. Hence, talk about the job as much as possible. Ask what a perfect candidate would be like. Only occasionally talk about yourself and only to show how you suit their requirements." - Dave Field<br /><br />Research the company -- and the interviewer<br />"Find out some information about your interviewer(s). See if you share anything in common and understand that they're a person, too, with interests, background and hobbies. Whether or not you know who will interview you, you'd better make sure you know as much as possible about the company and don't be afraid to let them know what you know." - Josh Bob, regional manager<br /><br />Can you take the heat?<br />"I've found that saying that I can take constructive criticism has a big impact on employers. They need to know that you are not going to fold under scrutiny. Especially with the younger generation, where we have been coddled quite a bit with excessive praise and self-esteem boasters, you need to show you are resilient." - Liz Cauley, teacher<br /><br />Make a list<br />List five things you've accomplished during your previous job and concentrate on those items during your interview. "Each time I prepared for an interview, I was reminded of five things that I had accomplished under my last employer. That gave me a boost of confidence when going to the interview. It helped me to decide how I wanted to frame the answers that I gave to the interviewer." - Sue Chehrenegar<br /><br />Make it personal<br />"One thing that I do that has gotten positive feedback is I send a handwritten thank-you note. I have had numerous people comment and thank me for doing this." - Danny Kofke, teacher<br /><br />Show your research<br />"Print out a couple pages of the Web site from the company you're interviewing with and bring it with you to the interview. Keep it on top of your résumé ... when you open up your notebook or binder to take notes or pull out your résumé, the interviewer will see the printed company materials and assume you've done your research. Of course, ideally have you have actually researched the company ... in which case you're showcasing that fact." - Katherine Opie, senior executive recruiter<br /><br />Know the job description<br />"Reviewing the job description will help you customize your answers by addressing the specific needs of the organization and requirements of the position to your skill set. Many people have no idea what the job entails or how their skill set makes them better qualified." - Cristina Castro, director of marketing and communications<br /><br />Keep your answers to questions short and to the point<br />"Don't volunteer extra information. In my case, I talked about my children. We discussed that I had been a stay-at-home mom. Even though I had impressive writing credentials, he told me that I wasn't a 'corporate person.' (His exact words.) Of course, I never learned if this was why a job offer wasn't forthcoming but I'm 99.9 percent sure I said too much." - Marilyn Pincus, author and ghostwriter<br /><br />Be gracious<br />"Be polite to absolutely everybody. If someone gets you a cup of coffee, thank them; hold the door for someone else -- that kind of thing. Give the receptionist or the last person you see a cheery goodbye. You want to leave a good impression." - Phyllis Harber-Murphy, executive assistant<br /><br />Assume the position<br />"Steal a page from the presidential candidates and talk if as if you already have the job. Say 'I will," not 'I would.' 'I can,' not 'I could.' This will remove doubt instead of inject it. Bosses like someone confident and proactive." - Josh Schwartzberg, director of new media<br /><br />Use social networks<br />"I get a lot of my job interviews through social networks. I get recommended through others and it is significantly better than applying and actually interviewing. They basically feel like they interviewed you already!" - Albert Ko, business owner<br /><br />Rachel Zupek is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Search more than 100,000 Jobs by </span></strong><a href="http://jobs.careerbuilder.com/JobSeeker/Jobs/JobResults.aspx?SB%3Asbkw=&SB%3As_freeloc=&SB%3Asbfr=30&sbsbmt=Find+Jobs+%C2%BB&lr=cbrockl&cid=US&excrit=QID%3DA3852768340946%3Bst%3DA%3Buse%3DALL%3BCID%3DUS%3BSID%3D%3F%3BTID%3D0%3BENR%3DNO%3BDTP%3DDRNS%3BYDI%3DYES%3BIND%3DALL%3BPDQ%3DAll%3BPDQ%3DAll%3BPAYL%3D0%3BPAYH%3DGT120%3BPOY%3DNO%3BETD%3DALL%3BRE%3DALL%3BMGT%3DDC%3BSUP%3DDC%3BFRE%3D1%3BCHL%3DAL%3BQS%3DSID_UNKNOWN%3BSS%3DNO%3BTITL%3D0%3BOB%3D-modifiedint%3BJQT%3DRAD%3BJDV%3DFalse&IPath=ILM"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">CLICKING HERE!</span></strong></a>

Have You Tried These Interview Tips? - Real job seekers share what works

Have You Tried These Interview Tips? - Real job seekers share what works by Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder.com writer"Dress professionally.""Make eye contact.""Research the company.""Have a firm handshake."Any of these pointers sound familiar? They shou…

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Happy B-Day St. Martin in the Desert

Happy 2oth birthday to St. Martin's in the Desert. Two decades back, two good Episopalians in Pahrump were driving over the hump to Las Vegas for Sunday morning church. They had an accident, and that persuaded them it was time for Pahrump to have its own church. They started one in their home and invited friends. They later invited the diocese to send clergy support -- Mike Garrison, Richard Henry, Curt Edmonds, Mary Bredlau and others. Eventually, they started growing their own clergy locally just like they make their own wine out there in the desert. I know: desert wine doesn't sound right,but it is just great -- like the desert clergy.<br /><br />The congregation outgrew the Lunsford home, so they built a small church. They outgrew the small church so they built a larger church. We consecrated it just last year.<br /><br /><br />This year we celebrated the big 2-0 anniversary. We sang Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus; I Love To Tell The Story, and other hits of faith. Priests and deacons from the old days came to the reunion. The house was packed.<br /><br />St. Martin's does bang up evangelism and community ministry -- especially to the youth and children of Pahrump regardless of where or whether they go to church. St. Martin's is one of the major supporters of Galilee in the diocese. Folks who live so near Death Valley know Tahoe is worth a drive. They also throw a good party in the old church which now serves as their fellowship hall. It's happening out there, people. At this rate, they may be having to build again before long.

Happy B-Day St. Martin in the Desert

Happy 2oth birthday to St. Martin's in the Desert. Two decades back, two good Episopalians in Pahrump were driving over the hump to Las Vegas for Sunday morning church. They had an accident, and that persuaded them it was time for Pahrump to have its…

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5 Ways to Botch a Job Offer - After the Job Offer: What Not To Do

<a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/14/ar5f3xz6gkfx30qtpr14.gif"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/14/ar5f3xz6gkfx30qtpr14.gif" style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><br /><div>5 Ways to Botch a Job Offer - After the Job Offer: What Not To Do by Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer<br /><br />There's a viral video that probably everyone has been e-mailed: A cyclist nearing the end of a race raises his arms in excitement ... then falls off the bike, struggles to get back on and watches someone else cross the finish line first.<br /><br />The tumble is a real-life example of counting your chickens before they're hatched and putting the cart before the horse. Basically, make sure you've done everything you're supposed to before claiming a victory.<br /><br />When you're in the final stages of landing a job, keep those arms down and your brain thinking. As excited as you are to receive a job offer, you still have plenty of work to do before the first day of work.<br /><br />Here are five mistakes you want to avoid once the employer has extended an offer:<br /><br />1. Not negotiating salary<br />Chances are you avoided detailed salary talk until this moment. Now's the time to discuss it. Remember that many employers extend low offers with the expectation that applicants will negotiate, so don't feel pressured to accept immediately.<br /><br />Compensation encompasses other perks, such as vacation days, telecommuting options and flexible schedules. If you're told the salary can't be increased, don't forget to mention these other options. Also, ask the hiring manager if you can revisit salary negotiations after six months. You don't want to sign on the dotted line, only to think you didn't ask for all you could.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />2. Showing your split personality<br />Every employer knows you're on your best behavior when you interview. The impeccable attire, punctuality and excitement about the position -- that all fades to some degree after you've been on the job long enough. If it shows up the day after you've been offered the job, you've just sent a parade of red flags to your new boss. This includes suddenly calling your future boss by a nickname, talking about how trashed you're going to get tonight in celebration of the job or talking about the terrible breakup you're experiencing.<br /><br />Your boss can rescind an offer for a variety of reasons, so don't act as if you're a professor who's made tenure just yet. Continue to be the driven professional who was at the interviews. Let your casual side show after you've settled into the position.<br /><br />3. Badmouthing the company in a public forum<br />Hopefully you haven't already grown bitter toward your new employer and don't already harbor resentment of the company for some reason. (Why take the job if you do?) But don't say "Yes!" to the job one day and run off to Twitter to express how dumb your boss is the next. Posting on Facebook that "Jessica Jones just conned her new boss into paying her way too much!" is just plain foolish.<br /><br />4. Looking like a liar<br />For a past job, I was offered the position after a lengthy interview process. I thought it was weird that they never bothered to call my references even though I had gone through several rounds of tests and meeting with the team. The day I was offered the position, my references were called to verify my work history.<br /><br />If you're lying about anything, especially references or salary history, you can still get caught even after you've accepted the position. In fact, many offers are contingent on all of your information checking out. You should never lie during the hiring process, but if your application has false information (whether on purpose or accident), make sure you hand the employer the proper information before you look like a liar.<br /><br />5. Playing games<br />Negotiating salary is one thing; dragging your employer along is another. You have every right to think over an offer and review the terms and conditions, but people have better things to do than wait while you twiddle your thumbs. Many job offers will come with a deadline that requires you to respond within days.<br /><br />One reason you might be tempted to delay giving an answer is because you have another offer you're waiting on. Choosing one over the other is hard when the situation is so uncertain, but you do need to pick one or you could end up losing both.<br /><br />Anthony Balderrama is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. He researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.<br /></div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Search more than 100,000 Jobs by </span></strong><a href="http://jobs.careerbuilder.com/JobSeeker/Jobs/JobResults.aspx?SB%3Asbkw=&SB%3As_freeloc=&SB%3Asbfr=30&sbsbmt=Find+Jobs+%C2%BB&lr=cbrockl&cid=US&excrit=QID%3DA3852768340946%3Bst%3DA%3Buse%3DALL%3BCID%3DUS%3BSID%3D%3F%3BTID%3D0%3BENR%3DNO%3BDTP%3DDRNS%3BYDI%3DYES%3BIND%3DALL%3BPDQ%3DAll%3BPDQ%3DAll%3BPAYL%3D0%3BPAYH%3DGT120%3BPOY%3DNO%3BETD%3DALL%3BRE%3DALL%3BMGT%3DDC%3BSUP%3DDC%3BFRE%3D1%3BCHL%3DAL%3BQS%3DSID_UNKNOWN%3BSS%3DNO%3BTITL%3D0%3BOB%3D-modifiedint%3BJQT%3DRAD%3BJDV%3DFalse&IPath=ILM"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">CLICKING HERE!</span></strong></a> </div>

5 Ways to Botch a Job Offer - After the Job Offer: What Not To Do

5 Ways to Botch a Job Offer - After the Job Offer: What Not To Do by Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writerThere's a viral video that probably everyone has been e-mailed: A cyclist nearing the end of a race raises his arms in excitement ... the…

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10 Job Hunting Questions You Were Afraid to Ask

10 Job Hunting Questions You Were Afraid to Ask by Ellen Gordon Reeves, author of "Can I Wear My Nose Ring to the Interview?"<br /><br />In the decades that I've been advising people on job hunting, I've collected some questions I haven't seen answered elsewhere -- or at least not to my, my clients' or my students' satisfaction.<br /><br />Thank goodness a few brave souls have dared to voice these concerns that often go unspoken -- from managing their professional image, to rallying their references, to handling embarrassing situations at the interview. I want to help people present themselves effectively on and off paper and I'm not afraid to be direct. I'm on their side. From my teaching background, I've learned to say to people "your behavior isn't working for you" and then help them figure out strategies that will lead to success.<br /><br />The following are 10 serious job hunting questions that most people are afraid to ask:<br /><br />Question No. 1: Can I wear my nose ring to the interview?<br /><br />A. I say, sure, wear your nose ring -- just understand that at least 50 percent of employers or more may not hire you. Know yourself and know the culture of the workplace and company to which you're applying. If you're a nose-ring wearer, you need a nose-ring friendly environment. Don't take your nose ring out, get hired, put it back in and wonder why you're not being taken to meet clients.<br /><br />Question No. 2: People don't take me seriously in interviews; I'm petite, blonde and blue-eyed. I know I'm sometimes stereotyped as a "dumb blonde" but I'm not!<br /><br />A. You've got to manage your image, so it's great that you know this about yourself. Wear some chic but sophisticated glasses (non-prescription if you can see just fine), perhaps with a black or tortoise shell frame. Now you're projecting the image of the brainiac instead. Another reason to do this: If you've got bags under your eyes for whatever reason, use glasses as camouflage, instead of making me wonder if you've been partying all night.<br /><br />Question No. 3: I'm really overweight; I'm worried that this might affect my candidacy.<br /><br />A. The right answer is that you should lose weight for health reasons--but I'm not a diet expert. There can be an employer bias against overweight people; you've probably heard about such discrimination cases. The best thing you can do is dress impeccably in well-tailored clothes. The goal is to look as polished as possible, drawing attention to your confidence and sense of style instead of to your extra pounds. Spend a little more if you can on accessories, grooming and clothing. You need a competitive edge here. Focus on your body language, too; you want to appear as active and energetic as possible.<br /><br />Question No. 4: I sweat a lot, especially when I get nervous. What can I do?<br /><br />A. Carry your jacket or sweater and put it on at the last minute. Wear dark colors to hide sweat stains and make sure your antiperspirant hasn't left telltale marks on your back and sides. If your hands are sweating, carry a tissue and wipe your hands right before you go to shake hands -- out of sight of the interviewer (and her assistant), of course.<br /><br />Question No. 5: Can I be funny as I job hunt?<br /><br />A. I don't know, can you? I know you mean, "may I?" and the answer is: only if you truly are. In a cover letter, avoid any humor that might fall flat. Save it for the interview or thank-you note once you've established a personal rapport with your interviewer.<br /><br />Question No. 6: Why can't I use my family physician as a reference? He's known me for my whole life, inside and out.<br /><br />A. Whoa, TMI! I don't want to see his name anywhere unless you worked for him! You need professional or academic recommendations, not personal ones, unless you're asked specifically for a character reference.<br /><br />Question No. 7: What if my former supervisor speaks little or no English? How do I get a reference that my prospective employer will understand?<br /><br />A. You may need to ask a colleague to serve as a "translator" or have the supervisor compose a written reference and edit it with her if she is open to it. You can also ask if the supervisor would be comfortable letting you write a letter with her input. Let the employer know what the situation is.<br /><br />Question No. 8: It's the day of the interview and I have a bloody nose/black eye/horrible rash/fever/migraine/allergic reaction. What now?<br /><br />A. Try to reschedule, especially if you're sick. Don't show up wheezing or bleeding or oozing. Do the best you can with concealer. Same goes for chapped lips, cuts, bruises, shaving accidents and pimples. If, during an interview, you feel sick or need to sneeze, just excuse yourself to the restroom unless you feel you're in danger of passing out and shouldn't be alone. We all have bodies; I just don't want your bodily fluids spewing all over me or my office.<br /><br />Question No. 9: What do I do with myself in the waiting room?<br /><br />A. Here's what not to do: whip out your cell and recount the details of your sex life within earshot of the receptionist who has every right to report back to her boss. Do some "sleuthing" into company culture; read annual reports and catalogs, check out displays and bulletin boards; you might gather interview-worthy questions and material. Observe the people around you, their pace and demeanor. Can you picture yourself fitting in here? Remember, you are under a microscope; do not eat, chew gum, play video games or wear earphones; don't groom in public or bite your nails. If you are invited to join interviewers for lunch or drinks after an interview, remember: You are still on display.<br /><br />Question No. 10: I might be moving or going to graduate school or getting engaged. Should I reveal that in the interview?<br /><br />A. If you want the job, keep this kind of information to yourself. Frankly, no matter what your plans are, you have no idea what might be in the cards for you. This might turn out to be your dream job or company, and your plans could be about to change.<br /><br />Over decades of helping job hunters put their best foot forward, Ellen Gordon Reeves (caniwearmynosering@gmail.com) has been asked thousands of questions, now collected in "Can I Wear My Nose Ring to the Interview? The Crash Course in Finding, Landing, and Keeping Your First Real Job" (Workman, 2009). The resident job hunting expert at the Columbia Publishing Course, she is senior editor at change.org and a career adviser for jobs.change.org.<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Search more than 100,000 Jobs by </span></strong><a href="http://jobs.careerbuilder.com/JobSeeker/Jobs/JobResults.aspx?SB%3Asbkw=&SB%3As_freeloc=&SB%3Asbfr=30&sbsbmt=Find+Jobs+%C2%BB&lr=cbrockl&cid=US&excrit=QID%3DA3852768340946%3Bst%3DA%3Buse%3DALL%3BCID%3DUS%3BSID%3D%3F%3BTID%3D0%3BENR%3DNO%3BDTP%3DDRNS%3BYDI%3DYES%3BIND%3DALL%3BPDQ%3DAll%3BPDQ%3DAll%3BPAYL%3D0%3BPAYH%3DGT120%3BPOY%3DNO%3BETD%3DALL%3BRE%3DALL%3BMGT%3DDC%3BSUP%3DDC%3BFRE%3D1%3BCHL%3DAL%3BQS%3DSID_UNKNOWN%3BSS%3DNO%3BTITL%3D0%3BOB%3D-modifiedint%3BJQT%3DRAD%3BJDV%3DFalse&IPath=ILM"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">CLICKING HERE!</span></strong></a>

10 Job Hunting Questions You Were Afraid to Ask

10 Job Hunting Questions You Were Afraid to Ask by Ellen Gordon Reeves, author of "Can I Wear My Nose Ring to the Interview?"In the decades that I've been advising people on job hunting, I've collected some questions I haven't seen answered elsewhere…

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10 Unusual Majors and the Jobs You Can Get With Them

<a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/py/ar5d0r96fyjz1x6b8cpy.gif"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/py/ar5d0r96fyjz1x6b8cpy.gif" style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><br /><div>10 Unusual Majors and the Jobs You Can Get With Them by Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder writer<br /><br />Here we are again, nearing the end of yet another summer and the start of a new school year. By now, you (hopefully) know where you'll be attending college this fall, but do you know what you'll study?<br /><br />Choosing your college major has never been so important. Although the economy may have turned around by the time you graduate, nothing is certain. You'll want to declare a major in something that you not only enjoy and that interests you, but also in something that will be come in handy when looking for a job.<br /><br />While it's tempting to choose a broad major like engineering, English or communications, it behooves you to get creative; an uncommon degree could put you in a great position to find a job in an emerging, unique or specialized field.<br /><br />Here are 10 uncommon (or overlooked) majors and the jobs you can get with them*:<br /><br />1. Family and consumer sciences<br />A background in family and consumer sciences – also known as home economics -- teaches students everything they need to know about what makes a "home." You'll become an expert in such areas as child development, family relations, consumer economics, personal finance, fashion design, housing and nutrition, which means you'll have plenty of options when it comes to starting your career.<br />Related careers: Teacher, health educator, financial adviser, education administrator<br /><br />2. Linguistics<br />Linguistics majors study language -- its structure, how it's acquired, how people use it, its history, etc. As globalization continues as a trend in business, those with a linguistics background will become more valued in several fields.<br />Related careers: Anthropologists, archaeologists, computer scientists, interpreters, linguists, speech-language pathologists and audiologists, translators, marketers<br /><br />3. Recreation management<br />Students who major in recreation management learn how to manage employees, plan and promote activities, create budgets and follow safety regulations when running recreational facilities. Most recreation management graduates work in parks, resorts, sporting facilities, camps, senior centers, theme parks and community facilities.<br />Related careers: Amusement and recreation attendants; lifeguards, ski patrol and other recreational protective services; recreation workers; coaches and umpires; park rangers<br /><br />4. Food science<br />Food science majors study the biology and chemistry behind food. They learn the basics of producing, transporting and preparing food, and learn what it takes to get a safe food product to consumers.<br />Related careers: Agricultural and food scientists, flavor chemists, dietetic technicians, dietitians and nutritionists, industrial production managers<br /><br />5. Packaging<br />If you're interested in a green career, this might be a good path to follow. Most things come with packaging for health and safety reasons, so it's not likely this major will go away any time soon. There are ways, however, to make packaging more functional and environmentally friendly, which is what packaging majors focus on.<br />Related careers: Sustainability engineers, industrial designers, agricultural and food scientists<br /><br />6. Criminology<br />Are you able to solve the case during every episode of "Law & Order"? Then majoring in criminology might be for you. Criminology students study the psychology behind why people commit crimes, criminal profiles, crime prevention and the theories surrounding why crime exists.<br />Related careers: Clinical psychologists, correctional officers, government lawyers, correctional treatment specialists, research psychologists<br /><br />7. Social work<br />Social work majors are usually people who want to help make the world and its inhabitants better. In this area of study, you'll learn about human psychology, learn how to counsel individuals and groups, and also learn about social services like welfare and subsidized housing.<br />Related careers: Child, family and school social workers; human service assistants; medical and public health social workers; mental health and substance abuse social workers; sociologists<br /><br />8. Urban studies<br />Have you ever wondered why a certain area of your city is considered "middle-class" or "the slums"? As an urban studies major, you'll learn how neighborhoods develop -- and the stereotypes that go along with them. You'll also study what makes cities unique, find out how different areas respond to problems and events, how buildings and city layouts affect people, and much more.<br />Related careers: Urban and regional planners, community organizers and activists, public interest advocates<br /><br />9. Natural resources<br />Another green college major. Natural resources majors learn how to protect and preserve natural resources and how to commercially use natural resources like oil, trees, water, animals and plants with the least environmental impact.<br />Related careers: Conservation scientists; environmental educators; environmental scientists; foresters and forestry technicians; park rangers; preserve managers<br /><br />10. Gerontology<br />As the population continues to age, more research and resources are being put into studying aging. Gerontology majors learn about the biological, behavioral and social changes associated with aging, and can often put this knowledge to use in a career that involves working with seniors.<br />Related careers: Advanced-practice nurses, general practitioners, medical and health services managers, medical and public health social workers, mental health counselors, occupational therapists, physical therapists, public interest lawyers<br /><br />*Availability of majors varies depending on your academic institution. Selected careers may require higher education and training.<br /><br />Rachel Zupek is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues. Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/CBwriterRZ. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Search more than 100,000 Jobs by </span></strong><a href="http://jobs.careerbuilder.com/JobSeeker/Jobs/JobResults.aspx?SB%3Asbkw=&SB%3As_freeloc=&SB%3Asbfr=30&sbsbmt=Find+Jobs+%C2%BB&lr=cbrockl&cid=US&excrit=QID%3DA3852768340946%3Bst%3DA%3Buse%3DALL%3BCID%3DUS%3BSID%3D%3F%3BTID%3D0%3BENR%3DNO%3BDTP%3DDRNS%3BYDI%3DYES%3BIND%3DALL%3BPDQ%3DAll%3BPDQ%3DAll%3BPAYL%3D0%3BPAYH%3DGT120%3BPOY%3DNO%3BETD%3DALL%3BRE%3DALL%3BMGT%3DDC%3BSUP%3DDC%3BFRE%3D1%3BCHL%3DAL%3BQS%3DSID_UNKNOWN%3BSS%3DNO%3BTITL%3D0%3BOB%3D-modifiedint%3BJQT%3DRAD%3BJDV%3DFalse&IPath=ILM"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">CLICKING HERE!</span></strong></a> </div>

10 Unusual Majors and the Jobs You Can Get With Them

10 Unusual Majors and the Jobs You Can Get With Them by Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder writerHere we are again, nearing the end of yet another summer and the start of a new school year. By now, you (hopefully) know where you'll be attending college this…

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Five Ways to Negotiate a Better Job Offer ... Despite the Economy

<a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/8x/ar5d3z36y3g0509gyr8x.gif"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/8x/ar5d3z36y3g0509gyr8x.gif" style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><br /><div>Five Ways to Negotiate a Better Job Offer ... Despite the Economy by Lee E. Miller, author "Get More Money on Your Next Job... In Any Economy"<br /><br />In the early 1980s the country was in the midst of a major recession as bad as the one we are currently experiencing. Unemployment was in the double digits and so was inflation. Yet I was able to negotiate a 50 percent salary increase when I took a job with a new firm in Washington, D.C.<br /><br />Although I would like to be able to say that my success was due to my extraordinary skill as a negotiator, it wasn't. I was still in my 20s at the time; this was the first time I ever really had to negotiate about my own compensation and, in hindsight, I made a lot of mistakes. The things I did do right though, were to negotiate with the right employer at the right time, and I was able to convince them that I was the right candidate for the job. Then and only then did we seriously talk about money.<br /><br />In a tough economy most individuals don't think they have the ability to negotiate salary. Regardless of the state of the economy, if you are able to get a job offer you probably are in a better position to negotiate than you think.<br /><br />When it comes to negotiating, as in every aspect of your life, you limit yourself by what you think you can do. If someone wants to hire you, it is because you offer something that they value. As a result you are in a position to negotiate for additional money, benefits and opportunities. There are, however, right and wrong ways to go about it. Here are five tips to help you negotiate better even when the job market is weak.<br /><br />1. Take the time to learn how to negotiate,<br />Negotiating is something you can learn. Like good writing and math, these skills have to be learned. Take a class, attend a seminar or read a book on the topic. The ability to negotiate effectively will help you throughout your working career, not only when you are discussing compensation.<br /><br />Every day at work you negotiate about deadlines, to get resources, about time off and to get assignments that will propel your career forward and enable to earn more money. Ultimately your career success depends on your ability to effectively negotiate. Time spent learning how to hammer out a deal is time well spent and will pay dividends throughout your career.<br /><br />2. Get a potential employer to "fall in love" with you before you talk about money.<br />The time to be asking for things is after an employer has already decided to hire you. Focus on what is important to the employer and what you can do for them. In tough times making or saving money is always important. So is your ability to make your prospective boss look good.<br /><br />Employers want to hire people who bring value and they are willing to pay what is necessary to hire them. Once the employer has decided to make you an offer, then, and only then, should you start discussing the terms of employment. Until that time, whenever the subject comes up talk about the job. Be enthusiastic about wanting the job. Show that you really want to work there. Ask for the job. No one wants to hire a person who is only looking for a paycheck.<br /><br />If asked what you are looking for in terms of compensation, say something like "I am sure that if I am the right person for the job and the job is right for me, something that is fair will be readily worked out." Then ask some questions about the job. You will look good to the employer and defer the conversation until a time that is more appropriate.<br /><br />3. The only difference between being employed and being unemployed is your self confidence.<br />You are same person when you are unemployed as you were when you were working. You have the same skills and same experience. The value you can bring to an employer doesn't change just because you don't have a job. The only difference is your confidence. If you exhibit confidence you can not only negotiate effectively, it will help also you land the job you want.<br /><br />Competition for your services will also make you seem more valuable in the eyes of a prospective employer. Talking with several prospective employers at the same time will not only increase your confidence but will enhance your bargaining leverage.<br /><br />4. Don't act like you are negotiating.<br />While you want to arrange the best possible deal, you should do so in a way that doesn't look like you are negotiating. Remember, once the employer has decided to offer you a job they are trying to recruit you. Let them. Tell them what your concerns are. Ask for the things you want without ever suggesting that you won't accept the job if you don't get them. "Would it be possible..." or "Could you..." or 'Other companies I have been talking to have offered, is it possible...." are non threatening ways for you to ask. Don't make "demands." Throughout the process, and especially when you are asking for something, let the employer know how excited you are about the opportunity and how much you want the job.<br /><br />5. Negotiating is not only about salary.<br />Understand how a prospective employer structures its compensation and seek what is easiest for an employer to give. For some employers that is salary; for others it is bonuses or equity. Often, particularly early in your career, the most important thing that you can negotiate is the chance to learn new skills. When you learn new skills it will enable you to get better jobs and negotiate more money.<br /><br />You can arrange what projects you will be assigned to, who you will be working with and what training you will receive. Asking for the opportunity to attend seminars and receive additional training is usually looked on favorably by employers. If the company doesn't have a formal tuition reimbursement program sometimes you can get the company to agree to pay for additional formal education.<br /><br />Regardless of the state of the economy, most employers are not trying to hire the person that they can get for least amount of money. Particularly in a tough business environment they are seeking individuals that add real value. If you have demonstrated your worth sufficiently that an employer wants to hire you, you are in a good position to negotiate your compensation.<br /><br />Most employers want to be seen as being fair and want you, not only to accept the position, but also to feel good about doing so. Within the constraints of their budgets and organizational structures, employers usually will agree to any request that seems fair and reasonable. So being able to give a rationale for what you are asking for that will resonate with your prospective employer will make it more likely that they will agree to give it to you. Asking for things that will help you in your work but which you would otherwise probably buy for yourself anyway, like certain computer equipment or programs or an iPhone, is generally a fairly easy sell.<br /><br />Understanding these principles will allow you to effectively negotiate the best possible terms in your next job regardless of the state of the economy. Once you are hired, do a good job and continually seek out new challenges. As you take on added responsibilities and learn new skills, there will be opportunities to negotiate further improvements.<br /><br />A veteran human resources executive, Lee E. Miller is a career coach and he co-founder of YourCareerDoctors.com. He is also the author of "Get More Money on Your Next Job... In Any Economy"<br /></div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Search more than 100,000 Jobs by </span></strong><a href="http://jobs.careerbuilder.com/JobSeeker/Jobs/JobResults.aspx?SB%3Asbkw=&SB%3As_freeloc=&SB%3Asbfr=30&sbsbmt=Find+Jobs+%C2%BB&lr=cbrockl&cid=US&excrit=QID%3DA3852768340946%3Bst%3DA%3Buse%3DALL%3BCID%3DUS%3BSID%3D%3F%3BTID%3D0%3BENR%3DNO%3BDTP%3DDRNS%3BYDI%3DYES%3BIND%3DALL%3BPDQ%3DAll%3BPDQ%3DAll%3BPAYL%3D0%3BPAYH%3DGT120%3BPOY%3DNO%3BETD%3DALL%3BRE%3DALL%3BMGT%3DDC%3BSUP%3DDC%3BFRE%3D1%3BCHL%3DAL%3BQS%3DSID_UNKNOWN%3BSS%3DNO%3BTITL%3D0%3BOB%3D-modifiedint%3BJQT%3DRAD%3BJDV%3DFalse&IPath=ILM"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">CLICKING HERE!</span></strong></a> </div>

Five Ways to Negotiate a Better Job Offer ... Despite the Economy

Five Ways to Negotiate a Better Job Offer ... Despite the Economy by Lee E. Miller, author "Get More Money on Your Next Job... In Any Economy"In the early 1980s the country was in the midst of a major recession as bad as the one we are currently expe…

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7 Ways to Wreck Your Job Interview

<a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/3q/ar5d5qr71drykfzgn13q.gif"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/3q/ar5d5qr71drykfzgn13q.gif" style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><br /><div>7 Ways to Wreck Your Job Interview by Robert Half International<br /><br />Performing well during the job interview is one of the most important steps in the hiring process. Every candidate wants to impress a prospective employer, but, despite their best efforts, not all do. Often, a simple mistake can cause an applicant to blow the entire meeting. Here are some errors to avoid:<br /><br />1. Arriving late<br />Getting to an interview on time or, for that matter, a few minutes early is an easy way to impress a prospective employer. Arriving late is not only unprofessional, it also shows the hiring manager that you have little regard for his or her schedule. It also calls into question your ability to show up to work on time, one of the most basic aspects of any job. Plus, arriving late could cause you to miss the meeting altogether if the interviewer has another appointment.<br /><br />2. Being rude to the receptionist or assistant<br />Some candidates don't think it matters if they're dismissive of the hiring manager's assistant when arranging the interview or get upset at the receptionist because he or she mispronounced their name by mistake. After all, this person isn't the one making the hiring decision. But you may be surprised to learn that six out of 10 executives polled by Robert Half said they consider their assistant's opinion important when evaluating potential new hires. So remember to be polite and respectful to everyone you interact with during the hiring process.<br /><br />3. Acting like you're the only person there<br />Consider this scenario: After you've checked in for the interview, you make a quick phone call to give your friend a blow-by-blow description of last night's party, speaking so loudly that everyone in the office can't help but hear you. That's the wrong approach. It's better to sit patiently and peruse any company literature in the lobby. Doing so demonstrates common courtesy and can help you learn more about the firm and its needs.<br /><br />4. Going into the interview unprepared<br />Far too many candidates fail to properly prepare for the interview, believing that they can "wing it" and still make a strong impression. The savviest job seekers spend time prior to the meeting considering questions the hiring manager will likely ask so they can answer confidently during the meeting. They also research the employer ahead of time so they can explain how their skills match the open position and highlight their true interest in the company and position.<br /><br />5. Appearing arrogant<br />Confidence is key for any applicant to possess, but taking it too far is sure to make you stand out -- for the wrong reasons. Boasting about your abilities ("I was the best worker my previous employer had ever had!") is a good way to appear arrogant and come across as someone who may have difficulty collaborating with others.<br /><br />6. Not asking questions.<br />As the interview winds down, the hiring manager will likely ask if you have any questions. Your answer should be yes. But your questions should go beyond "How much does the position pay?" and "How many days or vacation can I expect?" Although compensation and benefits are important components of any job, broach these subjects only if the prospective employer has expressed serious interest in hiring you -- usually not until the second or third interview. More appropriate questions for a first interview include "What will my specific duties be?" "What are your top priorities for this position?" and "What does a typical day in this position look like?"<br /><br />7. Not following up<br />Even if you feel you aced the interview, it's not a good idea to simply sit back and wait for the hiring manager to call with an offer. Sending the hiring manager a brief note after the interview allows you to thank him or her for meeting with you and can help you reiterate your interest in the position.<br /><br />Robert Half International Inc. is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 360 offices worldwide. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.rhi.com. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Search more than 100,000 Jobs by </span></strong><a href="http://jobs.careerbuilder.com/JobSeeker/Jobs/JobResults.aspx?SB%3Asbkw=&SB%3As_freeloc=&SB%3Asbfr=30&sbsbmt=Find+Jobs+%C2%BB&lr=cbrockl&cid=US&excrit=QID%3DA3852768340946%3Bst%3DA%3Buse%3DALL%3BCID%3DUS%3BSID%3D%3F%3BTID%3D0%3BENR%3DNO%3BDTP%3DDRNS%3BYDI%3DYES%3BIND%3DALL%3BPDQ%3DAll%3BPDQ%3DAll%3BPAYL%3D0%3BPAYH%3DGT120%3BPOY%3DNO%3BETD%3DALL%3BRE%3DALL%3BMGT%3DDC%3BSUP%3DDC%3BFRE%3D1%3BCHL%3DAL%3BQS%3DSID_UNKNOWN%3BSS%3DNO%3BTITL%3D0%3BOB%3D-modifiedint%3BJQT%3DRAD%3BJDV%3DFalse&IPath=ILM"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">CLICKING HERE!</span></strong></a> </div>

7 Ways to Wreck Your Job Interview

7 Ways to Wreck Your Job Interview by Robert Half InternationalPerforming well during the job interview is one of the most important steps in the hiring process. Every candidate wants to impress a prospective employer, but, despite their best efforts…

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