forgetaboutit

<strong>The binges</strong><br />I'm going to stop talking so much about my binges. I've beaten that dead horse to death. Yes, I definitely have a problem with binge eating, but not every night, just some nights. Sometimes a few nights in a row and then I'm okay for a few nights. I don't know, maybe that's normal. What is normal anyway, does anyone even know?<br /><br />I noticed the more I talked about the binge eating, the more obsessive I became about it. I still want to stop it, but the obsessing about it needs to stop first. I'm just making it worse by talking about it all the time.<br /><br />Instead, I'll let you all know how it's going each week, if I've figured anything out. I'll share any tricks or tips on how to stop it, that is if I actually ever figure out how to stop it.<br /><br /><strong>My food</strong><br />Why does every social get together have to revolve around food? Last night it was sushi when I met up with two girlfriends to celebrate our August birthdays. We had a great time, but I ate about 15 pieces of sushi (too much). Then I came home and was starving so I ate a bunch of other crap. None of which were filling foods. Sushi is definitely not a filling food for me.<br /><br />This afternoon I left work early for an early dinner and a movie with another girlfriend. It was some Mama something place for dinner, Italian. Yes, a dieter's worse nightmare. I ordered an Italian Chop Chop salad without the salami. It was lettuce, tomatoes, smoked Gouda, smoked turkey and a couple slices of avocado, with a balsamic vinaigrette. It was delicious but very little Gouda or turkey and also the smallest salad I've ever seen. Which led to SweetTarts and a few handfuls of movie popcorn.<br /><br /><strong>The movie</strong><br />The Time Traveler's Wife. I read the book a couple years ago and cried. Today I cried while watching the movie. A total and complete chick flick. Something my husband, who will usually go to chick flicks with me, actually said no way he was going to see this movie. Probably because when I was reading the book I kept telling him the story. He said it was the stupidest premise for a book that he'd ever heard. I loved the book and loved the movie.<br /><br /><strong>The gym</strong><br />Dear God, please make him go away! What is the deal with the 38-ear old guy that keeps hanging around me and insists on telling me his life story and all his girl problems. Today it was how his 53-year old girlfriend had broken up with him the day before. He was asking me all kinds of questions as to why I thought she broke up with him. Maybe you talk too much!<br /><br />He's making me crazy. When I see him I try to sneak and go to one of the other workout rooms. It's kind of ruining my mornings. I've tried the headphones, the "I really need to workout and can't talk", the "I'm really in a rush this morning and have to keep moving". None of it's working. He hangs around me like a lost puppy dog. I know he wants me to be his friend, but news flash, I don't want to be his freaking friend!<br /><br />I'm at my wits end on this one.<br /><br /><strong>Pamela</strong><br />If you're fan of <a href="http://www.uncoveringpamela.com/blog/" target="blank">Pamela</a> (and who isn't?), her blog is back up. She had a little technical difficulty and disappeared on us for a while. Stop by and say hi to her and welcome her back to blogland. I, for one, sure did miss her.

forgetaboutit

The binges I'm going to stop talking so much about my binges. I've beaten that dead horse to death. Yes, I definitely have a problem...

Read more »

10 Jobs That Pay $30 an Hour

by Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer<br /><br />Remember when you got your first job and realized one movie ticket was equal to one hour of work or that a pair of shoes was an entire workday? Somewhere along the way, many of us stopped looking at our paychecks as units of time and started focusing on how much we deposit in the bank.<br /><br />If you haven't calculated your hourly pay in a while, now might be a good time crunch some numbers and see what you're bringing home each day. The median household salary is $48,201, according to the 2006 U.S. Census Bureau report. This makes the average hourly rate $23.17 based on a 40-hour workweek.<br /><br />We've made a list of the top 20 jobs that earn $30 per hour, along with their median annual salary, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).<br /><br />1. Electronics engineers, except computers - $38.97/hour*<br />Electronics engineers create a variety of electronics and monitor their manufacturing. They are involved in electronics of all sizes and functions, from personal and home audio equipment to broadcast systems.<br />Median annual salary: $81,050<br /><br />2. Computer applications software engineers - $38.36/hour<br />Computer applications software engineers create or improve programs and software in response to user needs. Their applications might be bundled with other software or they might be created specifically for a client's private use.<br />Median annual salary: $79,780<br /><br />3. Chemical engineers - $37.91/hour<br />Chemical engineers solve problems related to using or manufacturing chemicals, whether it's in the machinery used in the production or in materials created with the chemicals.<br />Median annual salary: $78,860<br /><br />4. Electrical engineers - $36.50/hour<br />Electrical engineers develop electrical equipment, such as a building's lighting and wiring or cars and airplanes.<br />Median annual salary: $75,930<br /><br />5. Administrative law judges, adjudicators and hearing officers - $34.90/hour<br />Administrative law judges, adjudicators and hearing officers preside over court proceedings that relate to a specific government agency. Their cases can involve everything from health code violations to workplace discrimination.<br />Median annual salary: $72,600<br /><br />6. Mechanical engineers - $33.58/hour<br />Mechanical engineers are involved in the creation of new tools, machines and components, from the concept's inception to the production and testing stages.<br />Median annual salary: $69,850<br /><br />7. Civil engineers - $32.98/hour<br />Civil engineers draw up plans for roads, airports and other public goods and oversee their construction.<br />Median annual salary: $68,600<br /><br />8. Management analysts - $32.72/hour<br />Management analysts look at a company's structure and business plans for ways to improve revenue and productivity.<br />Median annual salary: $68,050<br /><br />9. Personal financial advisers - $31.79/hour<br />Personal financial advisers work with individuals to asses their financial situation and help them reach certain goals, which can be anywhere from establishing a retirement fund to deciding the best investment options.<br />Median annual salary: $66,120<br /><br />10. Operations research analysts - $31.08/hour<br />Operations research analysts are brought into businesses and organizations to identify, investigate and solve logistics problems through the use of statistical analysis and computer programs. The type of problems can vary depending on the nature of the business, whether it's a production factory or the military.<br />Median annual salary: $64,650<br /><br />*All salary information based on BLS data.<br /><br />Anthony Balderrama is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com. He 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>

10 Jobs That Pay $30 an Hour

by Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer Remember when you got your first job and realized one movie ticket was equal to one hour of ...

Read more »

America’s 20 Fastest-Growing Salaries

Money isn’t everything in a career, but for many people, it sure comes close (whether they admit it or not). While everyone has different criteria for what’s important in a job, whether it’s location, challenge, advancement opportunities or overall satisfaction, pay is often the driving force behind many workers’ decision to stay in their current gig, search for a new one, or accept or decline a job offer.<br /><br />We know looking for a job with an adequate salary is difficult. It depends on the current job market, where you live, your skill set, your experience level and, perhaps most importantly, your job duties. That’s why we’ve done the work for you.<br /><br />Here are 20 jobs with the highest salary growth, according to data from CareerBuilder.com, in conjunction with CBSalary.com and SalaryExpert.com. The percentage listed is the rate of salary growth for each occupation nationally. The data is based on data collected on an ongoing basis, and comes from several different sources, including the Occupational Employment Statistics provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and ongoing surveys conducted by Salary Expert.<br /><br />1. Business operations specialists have job duties that vary depending on the industry. Typically, these folks oversee all business aspects of the company.<br />Salary growth rate: 7.4 percent<br />Salary: $38,648*<br /><br />2. Survey researchers create and perform surveys for clients, collecting information used for various reasons.<br />Salary growth rate: 6.5 percent<br />Salary: $31,734<br /><br />3. Industrial-organizational psychologists apply psychology principles to improve productivity and quality of work life in the workplace.<br />Salary growth rate: 6.4 percent<br />Salary: $106,844<br /><br />4. Protective service managers monitor security staff protecting individuals; homes; and business, commercial and industrial organizations. They investigate crimes against clients and create plans to protect clients from theft, sabotage, violence or other situations that endanger the client’s well-being.<br />Salary growth rate: 6.4 percent<br />Salary: $75,848<br /><br />5. Agents and business managers represent and promote clients to prospective employers and handle contract negotiations and other business matters.<br />Salary growth rate: 5.8 percent<br />Salary: $113,771<br /><br />6. Agricultural inspectors make sure agricultural workers abide by laws and regulations surrounding the health, quality and safety of agricultural commodities.<br />Salary growth rate: 5.6 percent<br />Salary: $37,001<br /><br />7. Music directors and composers lead musical groups and create original music.<br />Salary growth rate: 5.6 percent<br />Salary: $51,910<br /><br />8. Film and video editors edit soundtracks, film and video for the movies, and cable and broadcast television.<br />Salary growth rate: 5.4 percent<br />Salary: $62,958<br /><br />9. Aircraft assemblers put together and install parts of airplanes, space vehicles or missiles.<br />Salary growth rate: 5.3 percent<br />Salary: $49,824<br /><br />10. Protective service workers guard individuals and industrial or commercial property against harm, fire, theft, vandalism and illegal entry.<br />Salary growth rate: 5.3 percent<br />Salary: $25,727<br /><br />11. Semiconductor processors are production workers who manufacture semiconductors into different-size disks.<br />Salary growth rate: 5.3 percent<br />Salary: $35,799<br /><br />12. Public relations managers supervise public relations specialists, often specializing in specific industries, and create campaigns for targeted audiences.<br />Salary growth rate: 5.2 percent<br />Salary: $91,396<br /><br />13. Geological and petroleum technicians measure and record physical and geologic conditions in oil or gas wells.<br />Salary growth rate: 7.4 percent<br />Salary: $53,004<br /><br />14. Lodging managers oversee all aspects of hotel operations, like establishing room rates and making sure all standards are met within the hotel.<br />Salary growth rate: 5.1 percent<br />Salary: $39,517<br /><br />15. Anthropologists study the origin, cultural development and behavior of humans, while archaeologists recover artifacts to gather information about humans.<br />Salary growth rate: 4.9 percent<br />Salary: $66,861<br /><br />16. Derrick operators assemble equipment and control pumps to circulate mud through drill holes.<br />Salary growth rate: 4.8 percent<br />Salary: $42,363<br /><br />17. Purchasing managers buy goods and services, like raw materials for manufacturing or office supplies, for companies/organizations.<br />Salary growth rate: 4.7 percent<br />Salary: $79,606<br /><br />18. Set and exhibit designers design special exhibits and movie, television and theater sets.<br />Salary growth rate: 4.6 percent<br />Salary: $49,190<br /><br />19. Biochemists study the chemical composition of living things and the chemical combinations and reactions involved in metabolism, reproduction, growth and heredity.<br />Salary growth rate: 4.5 percent<br />Salary: $87,408<br /><br />20. Law clerks assist lawyers or judges by researching or preparing legal documents.<br />Salary growth rate: 4.4 percent<br />Salary: $42,754<br /><br />*Salary is total national average compensation, including bonus and benefits.<br /><br />Rachel Zupek is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com. 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>

America’s 20 Fastest-Growing Salaries

Money isn’t everything in a career, but for many people, it sure comes close (whether they admit it or not). While everyone has different cr...

Read more »

Your Dream Job Search Begins Now

by Richard Castellini, Senior Career Adviser for CareerBuilder.com. Did you have high hopes of being an astronaut or even the president when you were growing up? Now you’re stuck behind a pile of papers wondering exactly when you lost the desire to dream big.<br /><br />If you didn’t start out 2008 in your dream job, you’re not alone. A new survey of more than 6,700 workers by CareerBuilder.com and Disney Parks reveals that only 15 percent of workers say they are in their dream jobs.<br /><br />So what does the perfect job entail? It means something different for everyone.<br /><br />Most of us are looking for more than just a paycheck. Ninety percent of workers said, if they could get a job that would allow them to make a difference in the world, they would do it. More than a third (35 percent) said they would even take a pay cut if they could help others or give back to the community.<br /><br />Why wait to find your dream job?<br /><br />Is your job negatively affecting your personal life, are you having a hard time getting out of bed in the morning? Maybe you’re staying put because of the benefits or because you are worried you aren’t qualified for the job you really want. There are all sorts of reasons (or excuses) for not seeking out a dream job, but you may be in a better position to find that “dream job” now than you realize.<br /><br />Increasingly, job seekers are finding themselves in the driver’s seat as employers face a shortage of qualified talent. Baby boomers are ready to retire and there aren’t enough experienced job seekers to take their place. In fact, CareerBuilder.com’s annual job forecast found that 40 percent of employers say they have positions for which they can’t find qualified candidates.<br /><br />This could be good news for you in 2008. Not only are employers making their jobs more attractive with unique perks and better salaries, but they are also casting a wider net when it comes to finding talent. This means you could be considered for positions that you weren’t perceived as qualified for in the past.<br /><br />Finding your dream job in 2008<br /><br />• Identify a role model: Is there someone out there who has your dream job? Consider what makes this person successful. What path did this person take to achieve his/her success? Ask him or her what responsibilities, experience, education and training are needed to obtain their position.<br /><br />• Get some help: Reach out to HR professionals and ask what qualities they look for in a candidate who doesn’t have direct experience. Talk to a career advisor or take an online career assessment test learn how your interests, skills and personality can translate into a new job or career. You can also find career tests at sites such as www.CareerPath.com.<br /><br />• Don’t underestimate your skills and experience: The qualified talent shortage has helped employers become more open-minded about relevant experience. Do your homework and understand what skills are necessary to be successful in the job you dream about. Then position your experience accordingly.<br /><br />• Plot your path: Do you want to change jobs or careers, but are worried about starting over? Understand that the route you take doesn’t have to be direct. Consider the steps that could help you get the job you always dreamed about. Could you volunteer or take a similar job in a different industry to gain some of the skills and experience you need?<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>

Your Dream Job Search Begins Now

by Richard Castellini, Senior Career Adviser for CareerBuilder.com. Did you have high hopes of being an astronaut or even the president when...

Read more »

Get Real: Four Realities of the Job Search

A strong hiring environment may cause you to think that your job search will be a piece of cake. But the truth is that finding the right job can be hit or miss. It’s important to have realistic expectations to keep your spirits high and limit frustration.<br /><br />So that you enter the process with your eyes open, here are some job-search perceptions you may have and the reality behind them:<br /><br />Expectation: My job search will take no time at all.<br />Reality: There’s no guarantee how long it will take to find a new position.<br /><br />Finding the right opportunity is not always easy. The open positions you come across may not seem challenging enough, or certain details about a job, such as the salary or commute, may not be appealing. Along with searching classified ads and online job boards, you’ll increase your chances of finding a job quickly by tapping your network of friends, former co-workers and industry contacts for leads.<br /><br /><br />In addition, hiring managers may take several weeks to respond to your application. After all, they have full-time jobs with demands of their own, and hundreds, if not thousands, of résumés to review. That said, don’t be afraid to follow up with a prospective employer to help move the process along. Eighty-two percent of executives polled by Robert Half International said it’s a good idea to do so within two weeks of submitting a résumé.<br /><br />Expectation: I need to send out only a few résumés.<br />Reality: Finding a job is a numbers game.<br /><br />As mentioned above, a hiring manager may receive countless résumés for an open position. That’s why it pays to spread a wide net. And while you want to keep in mind your goals, it may be unwise to hold out for the “perfect” job, which you might not find — or which might not even exist.<br /><br />Also keep in mind that some of the résumés you distribute may not reach their destinations. If you e-mail your résumé, it could end up in the hiring manager’s spam folder, depending on the words it contains. For instance, if you “won an award” for being a team player, your message could be seen by an e-mail filter as a sweepstakes or moneymaking promotion. “Received formal recognition” would work better.<br /><br />Networking with members of your professional network is one way to save yourself some time and effort. Hiring managers give preference to personal recommendations and may move your résumé to the top of the pile if someone you know puts in a good word for you.<br /><br />Expectation: My résumé and cover letter are terrific!<br />Reality: You could probably improve your application materials.<br /><br />Take a close look at your résumé and cover letter. Do they sell your skills and qualifications? Make sure that, instead of simply listing your previous duties, you detail your accomplishments and contributions in previous roles. So rather than saying, “Wrote one high-tech column for company intranet each week,” try, “Wrote weekly high-tech column for company intranet that increased readership by more than 200 percent and helped employees better utilize company systems.” This will show a prospective employer exactly how your work improved the bottom line and why they should hire you.<br /><br />Also make sure your materials are targeted. Research the company before responding to an ad to determine how your qualifications can meet their business needs. In addition, read through the job description and include specific terms from it in your résumé and cover letter. Doing so will demonstrate to a hiring manager that your skills are a good fit for the position as well as increase the likelihood that your documents will be flagged as promising by résumé-scanning software.<br /><br />Expectation: My skills are top notch — any company would want to hire me.<br />Reality: You may not be as marketable as you think.<br /><br />A common mistake job seekers make is overestimating their marketability. Although you may think your skill set is solid, take an honest look at your qualifications to determine how in demand you really are. Keep in mind that your marketability depends on many things, including factors that may be out of your hands. For instance, you may live in a part of the country where many other individuals with similar experience are also looking for employment.<br /><br />Of course, there are some factors you can control. For example, many firms seek employees with well-developed soft skills, such as communication and leadership abilities. Enrolling in a class or seminar can help you build these competencies. Industry publications, members of your professional network and recruiters can help you determine your weaknesses and identify ways of strengthening those areas to improve your marketability.<br /><br />Finding a new position is difficult, and it’s easy to fall prey to your frustrations. But by maintaining a realistic outlook, you’ll be better able to overcome any hurdles and land a job quickly.<br /><br />Robert Half International is the world’s first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 350 offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.rhi.com.<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>

Get Real: Four Realities of the Job Search

A strong hiring environment may cause you to think that your job search will be a piece of cake. But the truth is that finding the right job...

Read more »

What's Your Sign? Hot Jobs for Your Horoscope

Come on, admit it. You sneak a peek at your horoscope now and then, don't you? And even though horoscopes aren't always correct, every once in a while you read one so dead-on it makes you reconsider your feelings about this whole astrology thing.<br /><br />Amazingly, horoscopes can occasionally even tip cynics toward reluctant self-discovery. Here's a list of characteristic personality traits and suggested career options, along with the average national salary, for each sign of the zodiac (with help from www.findyourfate.com). Who knows? This list might just predict your future.<br /><br />Aries (March 21-April 19)<br />Your traits: Ambitious, inventive, confident and independent. You can be impatient, but your creativity and high energy inspire people and make you a natural leader.<br /><br />Compatible jobs: Arians often succeed in creative fields such as journalism, publicity, publishing and advertising. Leadership positions in the military or law enforcement are also potential matches. Look for jobs that allow you to flex your imagination and work either independently or as a leader.<br />• Publicity Writer: $45,696<br />• Police Officer: $46,564<br />• Radio DJ: $41,281<br /><br />Taurus (April 20-May 20)<br />Your traits: Practical, loyal, dependable and patient. You have strong opinions, but are slow to anger.<br /><br />Compatible jobs: Due to your methodical nature, you have the potential for success in finance and accounting. Artistic Taureans should look for careers in architecture or landscaping.<br />• Financial Planner: $66,328<br />• Architect: $55,509<br />• Stock Broker: $53,978<br /><br />Gemini (May 21-June 21)<br />Your traits: Enthusiastic, communicative, optimistic and intellectually curious. You are full of passion and energy, and have a voracious appetite for new experiences.<br /><br />Compatible jobs: Since you crave intellectual stimulation, look for jobs that allow you to continually learn new things. Consider a career in academia, research, investigative journalism or fields that require travel. Geminis are often good with their hands, and therefore might consider working in construction or carpentry.<br />• Research Assistant: $31,248<br />• News Reporter: $38,668<br />• Carpenter: $35,541<br /><br />Cancer (June 22-July 22)<br />Your traits: Compassionate, energetic, intuitive and imaginative. Your sensitivity, loyalty and organizational skills make you an excellent caregiver.<br /><br />Compatible jobs: Tap into your nurturing nature with a job in health care, social work, psychology or teaching. You might also consider a career in law, where your desire to protect and defend others would be put to good use.<br />• Social Service Worker: $45,461<br />• Public Defender: $83,442<br />• Adult Education Teacher: $43,763<br /><br />Leo (July 23-August 22)<br />Your traits: Ambitious, confident, optimistic, straightforward and outgoing. Your generous, dramatic presence draws others to you.<br /><br />Compatible jobs: You feel most comfortable in leadership positions where your star power can really shine. Consider a career in politics or film, or in an entrepreneurial business role that allows you to manage others.<br />• Campaign Worker: $54,808<br />• CEO: $336,305<br />• Newspaper Editor: $71,815<br /><br />Virgo (August 23-September 22)<br />Your traits: Observant, meticulous, friendly and industrious. Thanks to your patient, analytical nature, you are an excellent problem solver.<br /><br />Compatible jobs: Your logical, inquisitive mind makes you an excellent candidate for a career in medicine, law, research or teaching. Since Virgos are detail-oriented, they often succeed in accounting, statistics and programming.<br />• Analytical Statistician: $62,326<br />• Elementary School Teacher: $41,712<br />• Internal Medicine Physician: $164,549<br /><br />Libra (September 23-October 22)<br />Your traits: Diplomatic, idealistic, easygoing, creative and sociable. Your gregarious and trustworthy nature makes you well-liked by all.<br /><br />Compatible jobs: Your sense of justice and interest in people make you a strong candidate for positions in public service, philanthropy, law and medicine. Libras' imaginative nature also lends them to careers in the arts.<br />• Poet: $53,864<br />• Judge: $72,990<br />• Public Services Director: $39,221<br /><br />Scorpio (October 23-November 21)<br />Your traits: Purposeful, motivated, energetic and passionate. Your mental strength and resourcefulness make others feel safe around you.<br /><br />Compatible jobs: Your intensity, drive and analytic ability make politics, police investigation and the military fitting fields for you. A career in espionage, physics or astronomy would serve your inquisitive nature.<br />• Undercover Agent: $43,038<br />• Astronomer: $84,767<br />• Internal Affairs Investigator: $54,598<br /><br />Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)<br />Your traits: Positive, adventurous, ethical and sincere. You love to travel and learn new things, and then communicate your newfound knowledge to others.<br /><br />Compatible jobs: Philosophical by nature, you're suited to science, theology, law, politics and public service. Careers that allow for travel will also be of interest to Sagittarians.<br />• Travel Agent: $28,197<br />• Social Worker: $55,606<br />• City Superintendent: $177,059<br /><br />Capricorn (December 22-Jauary 19)<br />Your traits: Responsible, disciplined, ambitious and authoritative. Your serious, goal-oriented temperament pushes you to succeed in all you do.<br /><br />Compatible jobs: Excellent with math and money, you thrive in business situations where you are given a lot of responsibility. Additionally, many Capricorns are good with their hands and do well in engineering and construction.<br />• Treasurer: $102,364<br />• Mathematician: $61,884<br />• Construction Worker: $38,631<br /><br />Aquarius (January 20-February 18)<br />Your traits: Innovative, tolerant, personable and quick-witted. Creative and independent, you set the trends that others follow.<br /><br />Compatible jobs: Your excellent aesthetic sense lends you to a career in the arts, such as photography, music, writing and acting. Aquarians are visionaries, and therefore are also suited to science, aviation and computer technology.<br />• Jet Pilot: $86,567<br />• Fiction Writer: $45,646<br />• Software Developer: $74,196<br /><br />Pisces (February 19-March 20)<br />Your traits: Empathetic, patient, artistic and loyal. Due to your kind and intuitive nature, others often turn to you for support.<br /><br />Compatible jobs: Your compassion makes you well-suited for a career in health care, social work, philanthropy or veterinary science. The artistic, imaginative side of Pisceans would be engaged by a career in theater or film.<br />• Actor: $33,103<br />• Registered Nurse: $52,035<br />• Veterinarian: $79,452<br /><br />Salary information provided by CBSalary.com and the U.S. Department of Labor.<br /><br />Anthony Balderrama is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com. He 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>

What's Your Sign? Hot Jobs for Your Horoscope

Come on, admit it. You sneak a peek at your horoscope now and then, don't you? And even though horoscopes aren't always correct, eve...

Read more »

Job Fair USA Widgets

Are you interested in helping others in their job search. Do you have your own web site and/or BLOG? Then you can easily add one of the two following widgets to your site/BLOG and help others discover the benefits of using Job Fair USA in their job search. Besides having access to more than 100,000 jobs powered by CareerBuilder visitors have access to GREAT career articles written by leading national experts in career advancement.<br /><br />Just choose one or both of the links below to add a widget to your site/BLOG. As an added benefit, you're adding a value-added item to your site which keeps them coming back!<br /><br />Widget 1: <a href="http://bit.ly/Uo651">http://bit.ly/Uo651</a> (Provides a static rotating banner with a link to the Job Fair USA site)<br />Widget 2: <a href="http://bit.ly/19ucgs">http://bit.ly/19ucgs</a> (Provides an auto-updater similar to the one on the left side of the BLOG. All new posts will feed into this widget. You set the size and parameters to meet your site/BLOG's needs!)

Job Fair USA Widgets

Are you interested in helping others in their job search. Do you have your own web site and/or BLOG? Then you can easily add one of the two ...

Read more »

15 Biggest Job Seeker Mistakes

You talk too fast. You avoid eye contact. You ask too many questions. You wear too much perfume. You lie about your work history. You show up late to interviews. You don’t do your research.<br /><br />And you wonder why you haven’t gotten a job yet?<br /><br />There’s no such thing as an error-free job search, says Eli Davidson, business coach and author of “Funky to Fabulous.” Most mistakes can be avoided with a little attentiveness.<br /><br />“The best way to get a great job is to have a laser beam focus,” Davidson says. “The more targeted and specific you are, the more powerful your job search will be.”<br /><br />Many people assume only young job seekers are making these mistakes; but in reality, both new and seasoned candidates face different challenges that cause them to slip up, says Kip Hollister, founder and CEO of Hollister Inc., a New England staffing firm.<br /><br />Younger applicants approach their job search with a “what’s in it for me” attitude, Hollister says. They lack humility and their expectations exceed their qualifications.<br /><br />Seasoned job seekers, on the other hand, oftentimes come across with more attitude, indicating they may be uncoachable or won’t adapt to a new career environment, she says. They’re challenged with keeping their résumé competitive and they have unrealistic salary expectations.<br /><br />Don’t shoot yourself in the foot during your next job search. Here are 15 common mistakes job seekers should avoid:<br /><br />1. Fire … Ready, Aim<br />Don’t waste your time shooting out résumés before you’ve aimed for your ideal job, Davidson says. “When you go after jobs you aren’t qualified for, you are rejected more often. Take the time to ready your job search, aim for what you want and pursue your career with fiery determination.”<br /><br />2. Acting in a video résumé<br />“Unless you’re looking to be cast in the next play, hiring managers are not interested in watching you act,” Hollister says. Decide whether a video résumé is appropriate to the position for which you’re applying before sending one.<br /><br />3. Assuming you’re on a first-name basis.<br />Never call your interviewer by his or her first name, including interviewers younger than you, says career management expert Sally Haver. Until you hear, “You can call me Fred,” or the equivalent, address the interviewer formally.<br /><br />4. Your life’s an open book.<br />“Keep your private life private,” Davidson advises. “Make sure all of your wild photos on Facebook or MySpace are not available to the public.”<br /><br />5. Winging it.<br />“One of the biggest turn-offs for a hiring manager is when a candidate they are interviewing has not done the research necessary to understand both the position and the company they are applying for,” Hollister says. Davidson agrees: “Unless you are more prepared, more practiced and more passionate than the other candidates, you are wasting everyone’s time.”<br /><br />6. Neglecting your appearance.<br />You’ve heard it once. You’ll hear it again. “Don’t dress too sexy, too casual, too outrageous or wear too much jewelry,” says Bill Behn, national director of staffing for the Atlanta branch of SolomonEdwardsGroup, a CFO services firm. “Dress for the position you want to have.”<br /><br />7. Applying just to apply.<br />Apply only for the jobs and companies that interest you, Davidson says. “Go after that job like an Olympic athlete goes for a medal.” Don’t waste time sending out résumés for positions you don’t really want.<br /><br />8. Not talking the talk.<br />“An interviewer is not looking for a yes or no response to their question,” Hollister says. “They do want a direct response, but it is OK to support your point with specific examples that are relevant to your work experience.” On the other hand don’t too talk too much. It reveals nervousness or the inability to deliver a direct response.<br /><br />9. Being unprofessional.<br />“I actually had an interviewee tell me to contact her via e-mail at likes2party@aol.com,” Behn says. “Needless to say, that person was not offered the job.”<br /><br />10. Sending a phone book.<br />“Sending a 10-page résumé is a mammoth error,” Davidson says. Highlight your abilities in one page. If you’re having trouble, invite someone to help you. “Remember the person reviewing résumés has 15 seconds to decide to bring you in.”<br /><br />11. Doing it alone.<br />“They say it’s all about networking,” Hollister says. “They’re right.” Not networking with everyone you know cuts your chances of finding a great job, Davidson says. The more people you involve, the better your chances.<br /><br />12. Shunning assistance.<br />Many applicants think asking for help is a sign of weakness, Davidson says. In reality, it’s one of the most courageous and effective actions you can take. Ask someone you admire for help during your job search.<br /><br />13. Forgetting to say thank-you.<br />Always send a thank-you e-mail to the hiring manager. Use it as an opportunity to leave an impression on him or her by referencing something you discussed in your interview, Hollister suggests.<br /><br />Behn says job seekers often “nail” the interview, get a job offer and then send a mistake-riddled thank-you note. “That’s a great way to get your offer rescinded,” he says.<br /><br />14. Talking negatively about past employers.<br />“Regardless of how valid your point-of-view is, it’s not necessary to trash your past employer,” Hollister says. If you’re asked to talk about your previous job, be prepared to put a positive spin on it, showing you valued the experience.<br /><br />15. Not asking good questions.<br />“Not asking open-ended questions is a sure-fire way to show that you don’t care about the company or the position you’re interviewing for,” Behn says. Ask questions like, “Where do you see this position going?” “What is going to make the person who takes this position successful?” “Why is the position open?” or, “How do you see me fitting in here?”<br /><br />Rachel Zupek is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issue<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>

15 Biggest Job Seeker Mistakes

You talk too fast. You avoid eye contact. You ask too many questions. You wear too much perfume. You lie about your work history. You show u...

Read more »

5 Family-Friendly Careers

Any working parent will tell you that although raising children is rewarding, there's a constant struggle for work/life balance. Whether they're working overtime to help make ends meet or rushing after work to get the kids to soccer practice, the reality is that it's difficult to be an active parent and productive worker. (Difficult, not impossible.)<br /><br />Today's economy doesn't help, as parents are feeling added pressure to spend more time on work to provide for the family. Thirty percent of working moms whose companies have had layoffs in the past year are working longer hours, according to a survey by CareerBuilder.com.* Fourteen percent have taken on a second job in the last year, 43 percent work more than 40 hours per week and 16 percent said they bring work home at least two days a week.<br /><br />"Nearly one-third [of mothers] say that despite it being one of the toughest economies in the nation's history, they would consider taking a pay cut to spend more time with their kids," said Mary Delaney, president of CareerBuilder's talent management and recruitment outsourcing division, Personified, and mother of three. "If you're struggling with work/life balance, talk to your manager. Working moms who communicate their need for flexible time, job sharing or something in between will find that most companies are receptive to these kinds of policies."<br /><br />Many working parents have already communicated that desire: 55 percent of working moms said they take advantage of flexible work arrangements at their organizations. The majority of these women say their new schedules haven't adversely affected their career progress.<br /><br />If your company doesn't offer a flexible or alternative schedule to help you work around your family commitments, maybe it's time to think about working in a family-friendly career. Here are five to consider:<br /><br />1. Teacher<br />Not only have your parenting experiences helped prepare you for life in the classroom, you couldn't ask for a better schedule that complies with your family's needs. Most teachers are able to be at home in the evenings; plus, you can enjoy the same summer and winter vacations, and no-school days as your kids. And depending on the age you teach, you'll be able to work in the same institution as your little ones.<br />Education: Bachelor's degree and state teaching license<br />Average annual salary: $44,137<br /><br />2. Registered nurse<br />RN's have extremely flexible schedules: Most work three to four 12-hour shifts per week, plus a certain number of weekends and holidays per year. Evening and weekend shifts allow you to share duties with your spouse.<br />Education: Either a four-year university program, a two-year associate degree program, or a three-year diploma program, and state RN licensing<br />Average annual salary: $62,450<br /><br />3. Bookkeeper<br />Bookkeepers are often able to work from home, either from a company-provided computer or if you work privately with traders or accountancy firms. Working from home is ideal if you have young children to look after.<br />Education: High school diploma, accounting coursework and relevant work experience<br />Average annual salary: $32,510<br /><br />4. Personal trainer<br />One huge perk of being a personal trainer is the flexible hours. Most trainers work part time, scheduling client's appointments around their own schedules. Many trainers work nights and weekends and can work in the gym or out of a client's home.<br />Education: Certification<br />Average annual salary: $29,210<br /><br />5. Family child-care provider<br />The majorities of family child-care workers are self-employed and work out of their own homes. They have flexible hours and daily routines, watching children during the day and evenings while other parents are at work or away. While they may work long or unusual hours to fit parents' work schedules, these workers are also able to care for their own children in a familiar setting.<br />Education: Each state has its own licensing requirements; state requirements are generally higher for workers at child care centers than for family child-care providers<br />Average annual salary: $18,970<br /><br />*Survey conducted from Feb. 20 to Mar. 11, 2009, among 496 women, employed full-time, with children under the age of 18.<br /><br />** Education and salary information according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.<br /><br />by Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder.com writer. 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>

5 Family-Friendly Careers

Any working parent will tell you that although raising children is rewarding, there's a constant struggle for work/life balance. Whether...

Read more »

So You Were Fired - Excerpted from "Career Building: Your Total Handbook for Finding a Job and Making It Work"

Here's the bottom line: You have to get a job, you have to go to work and someday, you'll probably have to change jobs. "CAREER BUILDING: Your Total Handbook for Finding a Job and Making It Work" (Collins Business) is a one-stop guide for navigating all those times in your career.<br /><br />It can happen to anyone at anytime. A softened economy forces your employer to make cuts; your company merges with another and staffing changes; your department is restructured; a new boss cleans house; or you simply didn't perform to your manager's expectations. Whatever the reason, anytime is now. Here's what you can do to stay afloat:<br /><br />Q: Is it better to pre-empt a firing by resigning instead?<br /><br />A: In most cases, no. Out of pride, many people fall into this trap and wind up waiving claim to severance pay, benefits, earned bonuses and commissions and unemployment compensation. With so many victims of downsizings and reorganizations, being "let go" doesn't carry the stigma it once did -- in fact most prospective employers won't even bat an eye!<br /><br />Q: Should I try to negotiate a better severance package?<br /><br />A: By all means, yes. According to the National Employee Rights Institute (NERI), employees have more bargaining power than they realize. Don't be pressured into signing anything on the spot. Tell your employer you need to review the proposed agreement with your legal and financial advisers. Then, check the company policy manual to find out what is standard practice for employees in your situation. If you can, talk to others whom the company has terminated. You can argue your case on merits such as length of service, specific accomplishments and amount of time required to find comparable employment in today's labor market. Be sure to document your achievements, and if your family has special needs (due to illness or disability) you may want to let your company know the hardships this termination may cause.<br /><br />Remember, money is not the only thing at stake. Consider how long you will continue to be covered under company health and life insurance and the status of any earned -- or close to being earned -- bonuses, commissions, vacation time and vesting in 401(k), pension and profit sharing accounts. You also may want outplacement services or an agreed-upon letter of reference. Also think about getting your severance payment as salary continuation rather than a lump sum agreement. Salary continuation often allows for a continuation of disability benefits and also lets you answer yes when asked if you're still employed.<br /><br />Q: What's the best course of action for finding a new job?<br /><br />A: Take a day or so to process what has happened and vent to your spouse or best friend. Then, after shoring yourself up by reviewing your strengths and accomplishments, start calling people in your network who can be helpful to you, including former co-workers, suppliers and customers. Letting a colleague, vendor or client know that you'll no longer be working with them is not only a courtesy, but can prove a valuable source of leads. Then, work on your résumé and start an all-points attack that, in addition to networking, includes contacting recruiters, conducting industry research, cold calling target companies and searching online job listings.<br /><br />Q: How should I respond to those who ask why I left my last position?<br /><br />A: Keep it brief. Be calm and objective; never assign blame. End your explanation on a positive note by emphasizing your main accomplishments and what the experience has taught you.<br /><br />Q: How can I keep my spirits up?<br /><br />A: Recognize that you will likely experience the five steps of dealing with loss: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and, finally, acceptance. Don't be too hard on yourself if you get down now and then.<br /><br />On the other hand, try not to dwell on anger or bitterness; instead channel that energy into your search. Take care of your physical and emotional health by exercising, eating well and surrounding yourself with positive and supportive people. And make sure you start each day with a plan. A sense of purpose and accomplishment will go a long way in making you feel better and landing you that new job.<br /><br />From the editors of CareerBuilder.com, CAREER BUILDING is filled with the statistics, tips and priceless information on job-hunting and working in the digital age, including good and bad résumé samples, using social networking, searching online, résumé "keywords" and e-mail mistakes to avoid. In today's unstable economic climate, CAREER BUILDING is the guide you can't afford to go without.<br /><br />by the Editors at CareerBuilder.com<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>

So You Were Fired - Excerpted from "Career Building: Your Total Handbook for Finding a Job and Making It Work"

Here's the bottom line: You have to get a job, you have to go to work and someday, you'll probably have to change jobs. "CAREER...

Read more »

10 Jobs Cooler Than Yours

<a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/74/ar5c88l6np21q9kdcd74.gif"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/74/ar5c88l6np21q9kdcd74.gif" style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><br />Every now and then, I come across an occupation that makes me wish I was in a different line of work. Don't get me wrong, I love my job -- but some professions really seem too good to be true.<br /><br />Recently, for example, I came across an article about a man named Julian Jones, whose job is essentially as a baby sitter -- to all-star athletes.<br /><br />"Part companion, part publicist, part chaperone and part guardian angel, Mr. Jones, who lives in Las Vegas and works for a pair of casino owners, specializes in setting up elaborately arranged outings for athletes where every detail from transportation and tickets to the members of the entourage is premeditated," writes Hannah Karp of The Wall Street Journal, in an article about Jones.<br /><br />He got the gig when he met Gavin Maloof, who with his brother Joe owns the Sacramento Kings and the Palms Casino Hotel in Las Vegas. Maloof first offered Jones a job as a personal assistant -- entertaining athletes was not in the job description.<br /><br />"Nowadays, armed with a complimentary suite at the casino, the keys to Mr. Maloof's Sacramento home and an allowance for first-class travel, Jones is free to perform his wingman role almost exclusively," Karp writes. "'We pretty much let J.J. go on his own,' says Mr. Maloof."<br /><br />While not everyone has the luck of meeting millionaires at Las Vegas parties, there are other (more realistic) cool jobs out there. Don't believe me? Take a look at these 10 awesome jobs:<br /><br />1. Cruise director<br />Cool factor: Aside from getting to travel the world on a cruise ship, these guys have the ability to make or break a cruising experience. They are essentially the face of the cruise line, planning and coordinating daily activities and excursions for passengers, on and off shore. If you love making plans and organizing activities but don't have strong sea legs, have a go at event planning.<br />Average annual salary: $21,219*<br /><br />2. Doll doctor<br />Cool factor: We all had a favorite doll or something similar when we were young -- and we were devastated when something happened to it. Doll "doctors" can make that desolation go away for little ones. They examine dolls to determine the extent of damage and the repairs needed, and then restore them to the best condition possible. If you like to sew and/or fix things but aren't into dolls, look into careers in textiles, apparel and furnishings.<br />Average annual salary: $24,413<br /><br />3. Foley artist<br />Cool factor: Foley artists use whatever they can find to create and record the noises used to make the sound effects in films, like heavy footsteps, rolling thunder or creaking doors. If you're more interested in mixing music than sound effects, look into a job as a sound engineering technician.<br />Average annual salary: $55,959 (sound technicians)<br /><br />4. Food critic<br />Cool factor: What could be cooler than getting paid to taste everything from gourmet dishes to bar food -- for free -- and then publishing your opinion for others to read? If you're more interested in getting paid per word than per calorie, try your hand as a reporter.<br />Average annual salary: $58,704<br /><br />5. Pet psychologist<br />Cool factor: When a veterinarian can't diagnose an animal's condition, a pet psychologist might be called to diagnose the issue. If, for example, if a dog has been acting differently since he came home from boarding, the psychologist works with the owner to resolve the issue. Not to be mistaken for a pet trainer, this occupation requires a high level of education and training. If you'd rather help animals through medical treatments than behavioral remedies, look into what it takes to be a veterinarian.<br />Average annual salary: $19,220 (animal behaviorist)<br /><br />6. Route setter<br />Cool factor: These folks are like modern-day trailblazers; they change the routes in various settings, such as indoor climbing walls, foot trails and running races. Interested in running but not so much in setting the routes? Look for careers in nonprofits and fundraising, which often help put on races.<br />Average annual salary: Unknown<br /><br />7. Shoe designer<br />Cool factor: Shoes are a fetish for millions of men and women around the world -- to be the mastermind behind the look of the cutest/hippest/most unusual shoes on the market would be a pretty sweet gig. Not interested in design but love shoes? Try your hand in shoe manufacturing or repair.<br />Average annual salary: $67,247<br /><br />8. Storm chaser<br />Cool factor: Remember the movie "Twister"? Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton tempt Mother Nature by chasing life-threatening storms through Oklahoma. While storm chasers aim to track tornadoes, they also study cloud formations and severe thunderstorms, too. Keep in mind that storm chasing can be very dangerous; if you'd like to pursue storms in a safe environment, check out careers in weather forecasting and meteorology.<br />Average annual salary: $60,968<br /><br />9. Video game tester<br />Cool factor: For eight hours a day, five days a week, all these folks do is play video games. They repeat levels, games and characters, looking for any bugs and/or glitches in the software. If you're not interested in playing the games, look into designing, developing or programming them instead.<br />Average annual salary: $44,600<br /><br />10. Voice actor<br />Cool factor: Everyone knew the late Don LaFontaine, the famous voice behind thousands of movie trailers, TV advertisements and network promotions. Voice actors also loan their chops to movies and cartoons. Wouldn't it be neat to have your voice be familiar to the whole world? If you'd like a less publicized career in television, look to work behind the scenes in advertising.<br />Average annual salary: $47,000. If you have a highly recognizable voice, you'll probably get paid more.<br /><br />*Salaries according to CBSalary.com<br /><br />Rachel Zupek is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com. 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>

10 Jobs Cooler Than Yours

Every now and then, I come across an occupation that makes me wish I was in a different line of work. Don't get me wrong, I love my job ...

Read more »

I blew it

I blew my 3-night binge-free streak. After a wonderful dinner of Asian Beef on skewers with Gremolata (I'll post the recipe later - it was fantastic), salad with Balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing, and steamed Brussels sprouts (yes, I love them...I'm weird) at 5pm, I went crazy at 10pm.<br /><br />I opened the freezer to have 1/2 cup sugar-free ice cream with strawberries leftover from dinner (not the fiber-filled snack I was suppose to have) and staring back at me were those evil Skinny Cow mint ice cream sandwiches. I ate all three that were left in the package. Since I figured I'd blown it anyway, I ate two Weight Watcher cookies and cream bars. I was still feeling hungry and had a bowl of Dan's Good Chili (Hungry Girl recipe but I add ground turkey and shredded broccoli to it), along with two Oroweat Sandwich Thins. I didn't calculate the Points.<br /><br />I woke up with regrets, as I always do after a binge. It must be similar to how an alcoholic feels after falling off the wagon. The self-hate, the "why did I do that?!" the anger at myself. All negative, bad feelings.<br /><br />My gym experience sucked big time today, as it always does if I eat too much the night before. I don't know if it's a physical thing, all that food in my system makes me sluggish, or if it's mental. Probably both. I managed 21 minutes on Sadie (StairMaster). I usually do 30, but I just couldn't do it today. 16 minutes on the Crossramp. 45 minutes upper body strength.<br /><br />My morning got worse when the that guy that likes me came in and saw me on the elliptical and was all excited to see me. He said he'd been wondering what happened to me and he'd missed me. Great. I'd purposely been going really early at 5 a.m. to avoid him but today I was late and didn't get to the gym until 6:15am.<br /><br />We had a six-minute conversation about spirituality and God and how to have a positive outlook on life. You can see that was a lost cause on me this morning.<br /><br />I guess there's not much I can do but try again tonight to stop the binging. I have dinner out with two girlfriends at a sushi place so I won't be home until late. One of them is in Weight Watchers so I'm going with her to her meeting tonight before dinner. Maybe I can get some inspiration.<br /><br />Onward and forward....<br /><p>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</p><p>Another picture of my Fairbanks trip (with my brother and his dog Goldie). I'm somewhat mortified by my hips and thighs, they look huge. If you want to see it close up and get totally grossed out, click on the picture to enlarge it. Aother reason to stop binging. I really need to lose the last 25 pounds! By the way, those jeans went to Goodwill this weekend. </p><p></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjep4Hzjs-2Sp42TagBeVd8wjAqDnpvbAnhbC83pniCnQ5ZU_-MG5Gs7cUJ8kyNjool-zHFbw7gW10m6XSm1VKI6A7bqqSGORcvRp_LAa54jKzrqgCTr1l-g23rf9wlVZGfvp-jjbbCSl3H/s1600-h/July+2009+Fairbanks+011.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373555252741211634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjep4Hzjs-2Sp42TagBeVd8wjAqDnpvbAnhbC83pniCnQ5ZU_-MG5Gs7cUJ8kyNjool-zHFbw7gW10m6XSm1VKI6A7bqqSGORcvRp_LAa54jKzrqgCTr1l-g23rf9wlVZGfvp-jjbbCSl3H/s400/July+2009+Fairbanks+011.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>

I blew it

I blew my 3-night binge-free streak. After a wonderful dinner of Asian Beef on skewers with Gremolata (I'll post the recipe later - it w...

Read more »

10 Cubicle-Free Jobs

<a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/94/ar5b4cq5xhnp8q8b9194.gif"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/94/ar5b4cq5xhnp8q8b9194.gif" style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><br /><div>Imagine how your legs feel when you stand up after a long road trip. Your knees pop and your muscles burn. Once you straighten your back and let out a good yawn, your body feels functional again. Mentally, you feel freed from the confines of that prison on wheels.<br /><br />Turn that road trip into a 40-hour workweek and you'll understand how some people view cubicle jobs. The prospect of sitting at a desk (probably in front of a computer), with only a thin partition separating you from a sea of colleagues is sometimes too much to bear. No freedom to roam anywhere except the fluorescent-lit hallway.<br /><br />Of course, you also have workers who are more than happy to work in a cubicle. For one thing, cubicle jobs usually mean you don't have to spend your day outside fighting the summer heat or winter chill. Your feet aren't throbbing with pain because you've been standing or walking all day. And perhaps most practically, if your talent depends on a computer and you're not self-employed, you're pretty much bound to a cubicle (at least until you get your own corner office).<br /><br />Luckily, workers who enjoy their stationary workdays can stay seated in cubicle jobs and those struck with wanderlust can find other positions. For them, here are 10 jobs that don't require you to work in a cubicle:<br /><br />1. Paramedics and emergency medical technicians<br />You'll find them ... at the scene of medical emergencies, in hospitals and in ambulances.<br /><br />2. Firefighters<br />You'll find them ... where there's smoke. But firefighters don't just put out fires -- as if that weren't enough -- they also have medical training to assist emergency victims. Some are also qualified to handle and remove hazardous materials.<br /><br />3. Mail carriers and package delivery drivers<br />You'll find them ... in your neighborhood bringing you letters, packages and shipments. Delivery drivers work for shipping companies, retail stores and manufacturers and are responsible for deliveries to customers in a specified region.<br /><br />4. Truck drivers<br />You'll find them ... on highways throughout the country. Drivers can be assigned to make shipments in nearby regions or over long distances. What they transport, such as vehicles or furniture, also depends on the type of truck and their employer.<br /><br />5. Grounds maintenance workers<br />You'll find them ... outdoors, ensuring that lawns, gardens and landscaping retain their manicured appearance. Grounds maintenance workers can also be found maintaining football fields, cemeteries and other grounds that aren't your typical garden.<br /><br />6. Couriers and messengers<br />You'll find them ... zipping through traffic on bikes or jumping out of their vans in order to make sure your letters get to their destinations. Carriers transport documents, files and other important packages for clients within a limited area.<br /><br />7. Elementary teacher<br />You'll find them ... in a classroom trying to settle down hyper students and pour some knowledge into their minds. Between lecturing and working one-on-one with students, teachers might spend most of their days in a classroom, but they're not seated behind a desk for most of it.<br /><br />8. Security guards<br />You'll find them ... walking the grounds (or riding Segways) of retail shops, museums, banks and any other place you want to make sure nobody breaks into or steals from. Security guards are sometimes positioned at a certain spot to ensure no one leaves or enters without authorization, but others walk the grounds to ensure everything is going smoothly.<br /><br />9. Veterinarians<br />You'll find them ... at your local animal clinic and animal hospital. Although many veterinarians either work in these settings or have their own practices, many also treat larger animals on farms and ranches and even at zoos.<br /><br />10. Construction workers<br />You'll find them ... anywhere you hear a jackhammer or drill. Construction jobs aren't confined to any one place. Skyscrapers, schools, highways and homes need construction workers for building, renovation and demolition.<br /><br />Anthony Balderrama is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com. He researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues </div><div> </div><div>by Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer</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><strong><span style="font-size:180%;"> </span></strong></div>

10 Cubicle-Free Jobs

Imagine how your legs feel when you stand up after a long road trip. Your knees pop and your muscles burn. Once you straighten your back and...

Read more »

How to Change Careers This Year

<a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/r3/ar5b6hc79prh9g694kr3.gif"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/r3/ar5b6hc79prh9g694kr3.gif" style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><br /><br />If you are dreaming of a new career in 2009, but worried that the current economy could make your dream an impossible one, the good news is that a career change is possible this year.<br /><br />Here is a selection of career experts' best tips for anyone who wants to change careers in 2009:<br /><br />Ask the right people for advice<br />"If you're thinking about changing jobs, the last person with whom you should consult is someone who loves you. They'll want to hold you tight and protect you from taking any risk." -- Irena Chalmers, author of "Food Jobs: 150 Great Jobs for Culinary Students, Career Changers and Food Lovers"<br /><br />"Do your friends keep you down? Do your friends consistently come up with reasons why you shouldn't change careers? A bucket of crabs doesn't need a lid on it because as one crab nears the top, the other crabs will pull it back down. Sometimes your best career strategy is to begin to hang out with more positive people and limit your time with Debbie Downer." -- Jennifer Loud Ungar, president, Career Moves<br /><br />"Find a mentor. Contact mentorship organizations and your alumni association to interview (yes, interview) prospective mentors to guide you through your transition. Just because someone has great credentials doesn't mean they're going to make a great mentor. They must exude passion for their work and be able to effectively communicate their expertise to you." -- Brian Kurth, founder of VocationVacations and author of "Test-Drive Your Dream Job: A Step-By-Step Guide to Finding and Creating the Work You Love"<br /><br />Network effectively<br /><br />"Expand your network inside and outside your company. Many workers are caught flat-footed when they lose their jobs; they have to start networking from scratch to find another position. Smart people keep in touch with contacts in their industry and use their spare time to volunteer for projects that build skills and credibility." -- Candace Moody, WorkSource Corporate Communications<br /><br />"Schedule a weekly coffee date with somebody new. Contact somebody with whom you would like to build a professional relationship. Call that person and be sincere in your request to simply meet for a short, mutually beneficial sharing of ideas, thoughts and strategies for career success. Ask them questions and listen. For a $3 coffee, you can learn incredible information and build powerful connections for future career opportunities." -- Mark Mikelat, speaker and founder of Building Aspirations<br /><br />"Join the professional association that serves the job type you want to move to. Get active. Show your character and competence. Listen generously. Absorb the language and culture of your new career cohorts so when you get a job interview you come off like an insider." -- Lynne Waymon, co-author of "Make Your Contacts Count" and co-founder of Contacts Count<br /><br />Spread the word<br />"Activate your network and get the word out. What good is a contact if you don't contact them? When you are on the job hunt, work the phone from eight to five just like a full-time job." -- David Lewis, author of "The Emerging Leader: Eight Lessons for Life in Leadership"<br /><br />"Everyone should have a personal business card for networking -- they're relatively inexpensive to have professionally printed. Carry them with you wherever you go -- you never know who you will meet where. People change jobs more often than they change residences so if someone has your personal contact info, they will always be able to get in touch with you." -- Donna Cardillo, author of "The Ultimate Career Guide for Nurses"<br /><br />Make a great impression<br />"In a tight economy there is no room for error. Competition is fierce. Your résumé and cover letter must be flawless -- no typos, no form letter, etc. You must be well-prepared for all interviews and networking meetings -- know the company, their business and current events and have specific questions prepared." -- Lynne Sarikas, director of the MBA career center at Northeastern University's College of Business Administration<br /><br />Finally, here is our advice for making a great impression when you are changing careers:<br /><br />To avoid being seen by employers as a "wannabe," learn as much as you can about the career before you start applying. Some ways to learn about a new career include: arranging informational interviews with people working in the career, attending meetings of professional associations, taking courses and reading books about the career.<br /><br />Then get some hands-on experience related to the career. Don't worry about the job-hunter's dilemma (to get a job you need experience, but to get experience you need a job). There are ways to get experience before you get the job. In fact, having experience will help you move into the career you want much more quickly at a higher rate of pay.<br /><br />Ways to get experience before you start applying for your dream job include: volunteer your services (to a department in your company, family and friends, or a nonprofit organization), do an internship (even if you are an older worker), take a part-time, entry-level position or start your own part-time business.<br /><br />If you learn as much as you can about the career before you apply for a job, employers are much more likely to see you as skilled, knowledgeable, experienced and someone they want to hire.<br /><br />Tag and Catherine Goulet are founders of FabJob.com, a publisher of career guides offering step-by-step advice for breaking into a variety of dream careers. Visit www.FabJob.com to find the guide to your dream career.<br /><br />by Tag and Catherine Goulet, FabJob.com<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>

How to Change Careers This Year

If you are dreaming of a new career in 2009, but worried that the current economy could make your dream an impossible one, the good news is ...

Read more »

Three binge-free nights in a row

I know I really shouldn't talk about this because I'm going to for sure jinx it, but last night was night number three without binging. For some bizarre reason that I can't quite grasp, I feel in control. I also have permission to have a fiber filled snack of my choice with a point value of up to five points. I know it sounds like a lot, but I think it's better than just eating with abandon.<br /><br />My new rule is I have to measure whatever I'm eating for my nighttime snack and calculate the points, enter it online, then eat it. Then wait 20 minutes before I eat anything else.<br /><br />Just knowing I have this option seems to give me some sort of freedom. I don't feel as restricted and forced to be hungry when I really want to eat. Of course, it's only been three nights, but lately, that's a record for me. Two of the nights I didn't even have a snack. It's so weird how this is working for me.<br /><br />Last night instead of eating I went on a manic housecleaning frenzy until 1 a.m. I think that was brought on because I caught an episode of the Hoarders on A&E. Ewwwww! I could see that becoming me. Probably not the rotting food part because that just totally grossed me out, but the hoarding of junk that I think I might need some day. Scary! Now my office is so bare it looks like no one even lives there. I have a pile of junk to take to Goodwill today.<br /><br />Jack (my husband) is in class today. It's a class on ASP.Net, computer junk (b-o-r-i-n-g). He's gone for most of the day so I'm on my own.<br /><br />Not much on the agenda except the following:<br /><br />1. pick blackberries (bike ride included)<br />2. gym<br />3. Goodwill trip with my junk<br />4. make a new recipe I found in Shape magazine for dinner - Asian Beef Skewers with Cilantro Gremolata. If it turns out good I'll post the recipe later.<br />5. make Dan's Good Chili - from Hungry Girl cookbook<br />6. a little work stuff (since I'm drowning at work without enough hours in the day)...plus I want to test out using my new 24-inch monitor with my new laptop. Maybe the monitor and a clean office will make work more fun (yeah, right).<br />7. relax a little (I think I have that part already out of the way. I caught up on a lot of blogs today.).<br /><br />I hope this is another binge-free day. Maybe I can even have another loss this week. That would be awesome. I think reaching goal is within my power.

Three binge-free nights in a row

I know I really shouldn't talk about this because I'm going to for sure jinx it, but last night was night number three without bingi...

Read more »

The Social Risk Of Hats In The Great American West

Heading out of Reno on my way to Elko, dressed in my Elko-appropriate Western attire, I stopped at the truck stop in Fernley for road coffee. In the fast food section, there was a genuine bona fide cowboy. Old, weathered, droopy mustache, the real deal. I noticed he was watching me. I felt pretty good. I was passing. He thought I looked like one of the guys. As I walked past him, he mutterd a word of advice, "hat's back-ards."

The Social Risk Of Hats In The Great American West

Heading out of Reno on my way to Elko, dressed in my Elko-appropriate Western attire, I stopped at the truck stop in Fernley for road coffee...

Read more »

You are better than it (and today's weighin)

<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIisehRVt2YVgJ73apblI2jI0Aol63cWki73QnMhcr4EzwFnwQZy9eQR4ev6ubkVMYUG1LBb1XYFDK2dQ7M9VKysmx8QNtwkwK5556qORMuPvbp-0UPcAD_HLo6FpvG92egv5bNCoNG4OV/s1600-h/Pictures+August+2009+104.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372994647883658418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIisehRVt2YVgJ73apblI2jI0Aol63cWki73QnMhcr4EzwFnwQZy9eQR4ev6ubkVMYUG1LBb1XYFDK2dQ7M9VKysmx8QNtwkwK5556qORMuPvbp-0UPcAD_HLo6FpvG92egv5bNCoNG4OV/s400/Pictures+August+2009+104.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> <em>A picture taken at Chena Hot Springs, 60 miles outside of Faribanks. July 22, 2009. It has absolutely nothing to do with this post.</em><br /><br /><em>"Scientists say that body fat insulates, but we say that "it" covers our figure, making us appear flabby, weaker and less toned. It imprisons our body, depriving us of our self-esteem, confidence and energy. Be relentless; be who you really are. Deprive "it" of energy right back, increasing yours in the process. Force it to sweat and burn off the excess calories it needs to survive, grow, and imprison you. As body fat shrinks (atrophies), your freedom grows. Your real figure becomes more visible, as the curves and contours return to form. Your self-esteem and confidence, no longer held a prisoner in their own body, are free to breathe. You feel empowered and you project it."</em><br /><br />I read this in the back of Shape magazine, in an ad for some sort of weight loss supplement. I normally don't even look at those ads, but the big letters "You are better than it" really caught my eye. This statement is well written and very true. We are all better than "it". We can fight "it". The desire to be healthy should be stronger than our desire to eat.<br /><br /><strong>My weighin</strong><br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Weight 8/22/2009: 162.0</span></strong><br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Lost this week: -2.6</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Total loss: -77.2</span></strong><br /><br />I went to Weight Watchers this morning and it was an awesome meeting. Today's topic was about crossing the finish line, getting from the start to the finish. Something I've been trying to do for months--make goal. She emphasized how important it is to make goal in order to maintain our loss. I know she's right and I walked out feeling empowered and back on track.<br /><br />It was a been a pretty good week for me. I ate out twice last week, a Mexican dinner last Sunday and dinner on our anniversary on Wednesday. I had coconut prawns (I only ate three - food of the Gods) and sirloin steak (I ate about 4 ounces of the 7 ounce steak), two glasses of wine and a blackberry cobbler dessert with a slab of ice cream (shared with my husband).<br /><br />The best thing about the week is that I didn't binge the last two nights. I hope I don't jinx myself, but I feel like I'm somewhat back in control of my night eating. I took some of your advice and allowed myself a snack at 9pm, if I really wanted it. Thursday, I REALLY wanted it, I made a blackberry smoothie with a Weight Watcher smoothie packet, 2 cups frozen blackberries (that I had picked the day before) and some water and ice. It was like a yummy milkshake and only three points. Last night I was more tired than hungry (and that hardly ever happens) so I skipped the snack.<br /><br />My workouts are rocking because my beloved StairMaster is finally fixed. I love this machine! Here's a picture of her from today. She's not much to look at, but she really kicks my ass and I love her because she does it so well. Oh, and I named her Sadie. Sadie for the "Sadistic", she likes to cause pain.<br /><br />I just need more weeks like this, so I can be better than "it" and finally cross the finish line.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSR1IxmRn2wvGIuHbo4UtzXJ3PITseMNoisU9bv4wcL1SBKNGayXn-BgCRXbdXkrpB3jGOBPkFCGuYVeTMYI1JvmoLTSfnKK0egXFJks26kOvohUPJowXRqHVukmk6UVeYeTSsyUjb_9QM/s1600-h/StairmasterScreen.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372986650693675042" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSR1IxmRn2wvGIuHbo4UtzXJ3PITseMNoisU9bv4wcL1SBKNGayXn-BgCRXbdXkrpB3jGOBPkFCGuYVeTMYI1JvmoLTSfnKK0egXFJks26kOvohUPJowXRqHVukmk6UVeYeTSsyUjb_9QM/s400/StairmasterScreen.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 358px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGazkRQeY9BVJp40NoQes_N4sdfFtQN3XxDCvD-kZCznhcUT0csbMi2OEsB-Sz_N-zKY_yC6LIeh6Ms_aBCSL1brKOYqaUH73_n9ep95qmlmHcEY4hkFSj6ty-Q8I7eCyDSMax-M6VLrAB/s1600-h/Stairmaster.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372986575162079938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGazkRQeY9BVJp40NoQes_N4sdfFtQN3XxDCvD-kZCznhcUT0csbMi2OEsB-Sz_N-zKY_yC6LIeh6Ms_aBCSL1brKOYqaUH73_n9ep95qmlmHcEY4hkFSj6ty-Q8I7eCyDSMax-M6VLrAB/s400/Stairmaster.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 274px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a></div>

You are better than it (and today's weighin)

A picture taken at Chena Hot Springs, 60 miles outside of Faribanks. July 22, 2009. It has absolutely nothing to do with this post. "S...

Read more »

7 Hiring Trends to Follow in 2009

7 Hiring Trends to Follow in 2009 by Matt Ferguson, CEO of CareerBuilder.com<br /><br />2008 proved to be a difficult year for the job market. Though employers were cautious in the beginning of the year, they still anticipated a slow, yet steady hiring environment with continued job creation through 2008. The market continued to suffer, however, as the U.S. economy weakened and entered into a recession while employers maintained prudence.<br /><br />While recruitment levels in 2009 are expected to be lower, employers are not out of the mix completely. Instead, they are taking a "wait and see" approach to hiring, according to CareerBuilder.com's "2009 Job Forecast," which tracks projected hiring trends for the new year. The survey, conducted by Harris Interactive, surveyed 3,259 hiring managers and human resource professionals in private sector companies.<br /><br />Fourteen percent of employers plan to increase their number of full-time, permanent employees in 2009, compared to 32 percent who expected to expand their staff in 2008. Sixteen percent plan to have staff reductions, 56 percent foresee no change and 13 percent of employers are unsure of their hiring plans.<br /><br />Here are some other key findings from the survey:<br /><br /><br /><br />Fifty-six percent of employers plan to raise compensation levels in the next three months. Forty-three percent estimate the average raise to be 3 percent or more, while 12 percent expect a raise of 5 percent or more.<br /><br />Staff expansions should be strongest in the Southern and Western regions of the U.S. in 2009, with 18 percent of employers in the South and 14 percent in the West planning to add full-time, permanent employees.<br /><br />Nineteen percent of employers in the Northeast expect to reduce staff in 2009, followed by 17 percent in the Midwest.<br /><br />Job creation is projected to be the highest in information technology and professional and business services, with 28 percent and 23 percent of employers planning to hire full-time employees in those sectors, respectively.<br /><br />As employers approach the job market with a cautious attitude, they also plan to utilize the resources already at their disposal. Here are seven major hiring trends to expect from employers in 2009:<br /><br />Trend No. 1: Bigger paychecks<br /><br />Despite the fact that many employers are looking for ways to cut costs, they don't anticipate trimming salaries as a way to do so. Sixty-six percent of employers plan to increase pay for existing employees and one third of hiring managers estimate increasing salaries on initial offers to new employees in 2009.<br /><br />Trend No. 2: Flexible work arrangements<br /><br />Companies are catching on to the flexible work arrangements that allow employees more freedom in the office. Thirty-one percent of employers say they plan to provide the following options for workers in 2009: alternate schedules (70 percent); telecommuting (48 percent); compressed workweeks (40 percent); summer hours (19 percent); job sharing (13 percent); and sabbaticals (7 percent).<br /><br />Trend No. 3: Green jobs<br /><br />Employers have tried to gain traction using environmentally friendly policies for a while and the New Year shows more of the same. Last year, one-in-ten hiring managers added "green jobs," which are environmentally conscious positions, compared to 13 percent of employers who plan to add them in 2009.<br /><br />Trend No. 4: Recruitment tools<br /><br />As employers slow down on hiring, recruitment budgets shrink as well. As a result, more employers are using the Internet as an employment medium. Twenty-three percent of employers say that although their hiring budgets will decrease in 2009, they will spend money on the following staffing vehicles: online recruitment sites (19 percent); newspaper classifieds (15 percent); career fairs (12 percent); staffing firms and recruiters (12 percent); and social networking sites (7 percent).<br /><br />Trend No. 5: Retaining retirees<br /><br />Though baby boomers are approaching retirement age, many are continuing to work -- both out of desire and necessity. Employers are looking at ways to retain these workers; 17 percent say they will likely rehire retirees from other companies in 2009 and 12 percent plan to offer incentives for baby boomers to stay on with the company longer.<br /><br />Trend No. 6: Diversity recruitment<br /><br />Hiring managers will also focus recruitment efforts on employing diverse workers. Employers said they plan to hire Hispanic, African American and mature workers aggressively in 2009. Eighty-eight percent of companies say they will continue to recruit bilingual candidates, as well.<br /><br />Trend No. 7: Freelance or contract hiring<br /><br />To continue their cost-cutting efforts, employers are using freelance or contract workers to help support their businesses. Twenty-eight percent of hiring managers expect to utilize these workers in 2009.<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>

7 Hiring Trends to Follow in 2009

7 Hiring Trends to Follow in 2009 by Matt Ferguson, CEO of CareerBuilder.com 2008 proved to be a difficult year for the job market. Though e...

Read more »

How to Answer 10 Tough Interview Questions

<a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/pz/ar5b2y76k01xfw6qxxpz.gif"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/pz/ar5b2y76k01xfw6qxxpz.gif" style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><br /><div>How to Answer 10 Tough Interview Questions by Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder.com writer<br /><br />There's no worse feeling than when you're in an interview and the interviewer asks you a question to which you don't know the answer. The best way to handle this dreaded debacle is to go into the interview prepared. Familiarize yourself with a few common difficult questions and arm yourself with answers prepared ahead of time.<br /><br />Check out these tough interview questions and some suggested responses in order to avoid an interview disaster:<br /><br />Tough question No. 1: "Tell me about yourself."<br /><br />This is usually the opening question in an interview and it's the perfect moment for you to toot your own horn -- not to tell your life history. Your answers should be a quick rundown of your qualifications and experience. Talk about your education, work history, recent career experience and future goals.<br /><br />Suggested answer: "I graduated from University X and since then, I have been working in public relations with an agency where I have generated millions of PR hits for my clients. While I've enjoyed working on the agency side, I'm looking to expand my horizons and start doing PR for corporate companies such as this one."<br /><br />Tough question No. 2: "Why did you leave your last job?"<br /><br />This is your chance to talk about your experience and your career goals, not to badmouth a former boss or give a laundry list of reasons for your exit. Instead, focus on what you learned in your previous position and how you are ready to use those skills in a new position.<br /><br />Suggested answer: "The company just wasn't a good fit for my creativity, but I learned that organizations have distinct personalities just like people do. Now I know where I'll be a better fit."<br /><br />Tough question No. 3: "Where do you see yourself in five years?"<br /><br />Let the employer know that you're stable and you want to be with this company for the long haul. Keep your aspirations to take over the firm with which you are interviewing, own your own company, retire at 40 or be married with five children to yourself.<br /><br />Suggested answer: "I want to secure a civil engineering position with a national firm that concentrates on retail development. Ideally, I would like to work for a young company, such as this one, so I can get in on the ground floor and take advantage of all the opportunities a growing firm has to offer."<br /><br />Tough question No. 4: "What are your weaknesses?"<br /><br />The key to answering this age-old question is not to respond literally. Your future employer most likely won't care if your weak spot is that you can't cook, nor do they want to hear the generic responses, like you're "too detail oriented" or "work too hard." Respond to this query by identifying areas in your work where you can improve and figure out how they can be assets to a future employer. If you didn't have the opportunity to develop certain skills at your previous job, explain how eager you are to gain that skill in a new position.<br /><br />Suggested answer: "In my last position, I wasn't able to develop my public-speaking skills. I'd really like to be able to work in a place that will help me get better at giving presentations and talking in front of others."<br /><br />Tough question No. 5: "Why were you laid off?"<br /><br />This question will become more common as the economy continues to slow down. It's a tough question, however, especially because many workers aren't told exactly why they were laid off. The best way to tackle this question is to answer as honestly as possible.<br /><br />Suggested answer: "As I'm sure you're aware, the economy is tough right now and my company felt the effects of it. I was part of a large staff reduction and that's really all I know. I am confident, however, that it had nothing to do with my job performance, as exemplified by my accomplishments. For example..."<br /><br />Tough question No. 6: "Tell me about the worst boss you ever had."<br /><br />Never, ever talk badly about your past bosses. A potential boss will anticipate that you'll talk about him or her in the same manner somewhere down the line.<br /><br />Suggested answer: "While none of my past bosses were awful, there are some who taught me more than others did. I've definitely learned what types of management styles I work with the best."<br /><br />Tough question No. 7: How would others describe you?<br /><br />You should always be asking for feedback from your colleagues and supervisors in order to gauge your performance; this way, you can honestly answer the question based on their comments. Keep track of the feedback to be able to give to an employer, if asked. Doing so will also help you identify strengths and weaknesses.<br />Suggested answer: "My former colleagues have said that I'm easy to do business with and that I always hit the ground running with new projects. I have more specific feedback with me, if you'd like to take a look at it."<br /><br />Tough question No. 8: "What can you offer me that another person can't?"<br /><br />This is when you talk about your record of getting things done. Go into specifics from your résumé and portfolio; show an employer your value and how you'd be an asset.<br /><br />Suggested answer: "I'm the best person for the job. I know there are other candidates who could fill this position, but my passion for excellence sets me apart from the pack. I am committed to always producing the best results. For example..."<br /><br />Tough question No. 9: "If you could choose any company to work for, where would you go?"<br /><br />Never say that you would choose any company other than the one where you are interviewing. Talk about the job and the company for which you are being interviewed.<br /><br />Suggested answer: "I wouldn't have applied for this position if I didn't sincerely want to work with your organization." Continue with specific examples of why you respect the company with which you are interviewing and why you'll be a good fit.<br /><br /><br /><br />Tough question No. 10: "Would you be willing to take a salary cut?"<br /><br />Salary is a delicate topic. In today's tough economy though, how much a company can afford to pay you might be the deal breaker in whether or not you are offered a position.<br /><br />Suggested answer: "I'm making $X now. I understand that the salary range for this position is $XX - $XX. Like most people, I would like to improve on my salary, but I'm more interested in the job itself than the money. I would be open to negotiating a lower starting salary but would hope that we can revisit the subject in a few months after I've proved myself to you."<br /><br />Rachel Zupek is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues. </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>

How to Answer 10 Tough Interview Questions

How to Answer 10 Tough Interview Questions by Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder.com writer There's no worse feeling than when you're in an...

Read more »

5 Ways to Battle Job-Search Rejection

<a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/6r/ar5d21z6hf0dnlhs0k6r.gif"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/6r/ar5d21z6hf0dnlhs0k6r.gif" style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><br /><div>5 Ways to Battle Job-Search Rejection by Joe Turner, The "Job Search Guy"<br /><br />Success in a job search is easy to deal with; a job offer feels good, validates us and allows us to move forward in life. We all want it and strive for it. Nevertheless, for most job seekers, our successes are infrequent. They're sandwiched between boatloads of indifference, rejection and apparent failure. If you've been hunting for a job very long, you know what I'm talking about. Job search is one big exercise in rejection until you win that job you've been pursuing.<br /><br />So, what can you do when you get rejected?<br /><br />Here are five survival tips for dealing with those vast and daunting oceans of rejection and failure that encircle the tiny islands of success that we all seek.<br /><br />Put on your sales hat<br />Any successful commission-driven salesperson knows that success is a numbers game. Salespeople know that every rejection brings them just one step closer to success. With this attitude, you know that rejection leads to success, and you can put rejection into perspective. Just keep going. Count those rejections, and know that you're one step closer to success -- and a good job offer.<br /><br />Know there is a positive end to this<br />Step back and observe your job-search process from a larger viewpoint. You may feel as if you're wandering in the desert and that you can't see the solution or find the right job, but know that your search is finite. You will eventually find employment that's right for you. Accept that you're in a process, and let yourself live with the questions. One day you will grow into the answers, and you will find the right job for you.<br /><br />Be grateful<br />When you lose out on a job opportunity, it is because it wasn't the right job for you. You do not want to win a job that is wrong for you. I can think of at least four jobs that I was rejected from in my own past. I remember feeling dejected and depressed at the time because I thought each one was the "perfect opportunity" for me.<br /><br />As so often happens, the irony of life plays itself out and I later realized that, for various reasons, none of those jobs would have worked for me. Because of events in the economy and my own life, I realized I would have failed in all of those jobs. The flip side: Less than two months later, I found and accepted an opportunity that allowed me huge career growth and financial reward beyond my expectations.<br /><br />Try this: Set a goal and hold a vision of what you want. Then give the universe room to deliver the best job for you. Always set your intention with the words "or better." You can say, "I will win job X job or better." Admit that you don't really know which job is right for you. Know that the right job will come to you. This will alleviate some anxiety.<br /><br />Activity over passivity<br />Do something every day to further your search. Positive action diminishes anxiety and other negative feelings. To prevail in today's competitive job-search process, it requires an iron will and determination that you will not be defeated. Remind yourself daily that you will prevail and succeed at this challenge.<br /><br />If you're really serious about finding employment, become more proactive. Stretch yourself. Get out of your comfort zone and aggressively seek out the so-called "hidden job" market. It's been estimated that 70 to 80 percent of job hires come from sources other than Internet job postings or recruiters. These are the jobs that aren't listed, don't have an actual requirement or are otherwise "created" when the right person shows up -- this is the segment known informally as "inside referrals."<br /><br />What's your game plan for tapping into this market? There are many approaches involving direct marketing, personal branding and networking. Whatever approach you choose, develop a concerted action-based game plan with the expectation that you're going to win. You'll feel more in control of your destiny when you move beyond searching the Internet postings for your next job opportunity. Job searching is tough enough. Don't isolate yourself behind a computer screen.<br /><br />I don't need this job<br />As one HR director once told me, "We can smell blood five miles away." Lose the emotions of "desperation" and "defeat" in your interviews. Sure, one particular opportunity may look great walking in, but remember this: You may need many things in life but you don't need this job. Register this in your brain.<br /><br />Also remember that the employer has a problem, not a job. Think of the interview as a problem-solving opportunity with this hiring manager. It allows you to focus on what the employer needs, not your needs. Now you're able to sell yourself in the many specific ways you can help solve their problem. That's all they really care about. Once done, you gain their attention, respect and desire to know more about you. You can't get there by walking in wounded and bloody with anxiety and desperation.<br /><br />As a recruiter, Joe Turner has spent the past 15 years finding and placing top candidates in some of the best jobs of their careers. Author of "Job Search Secrets Unlocked" and "Paycheck 911," Turner has been interviewed on radio talk shows and offers free insider job search secrets at: http://www.jobchangesecrets.com.<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 Battle Job-Search Rejection

5 Ways to Battle Job-Search Rejection by Joe Turner, The "Job Search Guy" Success in a job search is easy to deal with; a job offe...

Read more »