The Inevitable Happens At Last

It finally happened. After 19 months, the inevitable. Today, I pulled the diocesan car (still held together by duct tape) into a parking space at the Gold Country Inn in Winnemucca, the space beside a 4 x 4 pick-up with Utah plates and “R E I Drilling” on the side. I parked, opened the door, and stepped squarely into a substantial pile of equine excrement.<br /><br />There was grace. This morning, while hurriedly dressing to get to McCarran Airport, I considered wearing my usual airport sandals with the Velcro straps. But I reconsidered. “One cannot go to Winnemucca in Velcro sandals,” I thought -- rightly. So I was wearing my boots from Nocona Boot Company in Nocona, Texas – home of best all round rodeo cowboy Larry Mahan. I may be a drugstore cowboy, all hat and no cow, but those boots come in handy.<br /><br />Now the flashback: Last Saturday, I spent an arduous but productive, exciting, hope-lifting day in Reno with the Strategic Planning Team. They did a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) Analysis of the Diocese, then developed an action plan for evangelism – ways the diocese can help parishes share the gospel in their communities. Good stuff. Great team. Thanks to Darrell Spencer for making it happen.<br /><br />Then Linda and I drove to Incline Village for the next day’s visit. But there was no room in the Inn anywhere in Nevada near Incline. So we went to King’s Beach. There was only one place with a vacancy and it was nowhere Joseph would have taken Mary. So it was on to Tahoe City, California. Desperate we stopped at a place that was not so much a motel as a group of tourist cabins – Morelatos Lakeshore Resort. The desk clerk was a young lady from Russia. Actually she looked like she was from an early Bond movie. Her name was Olga and she had an accent to match. If I were more of a Sean Connery or even a Pearce Brosnan, she might have called me “James” and we would all be in a lot of trouble. As it was, I was just the old country parson. She told me all about studying public relations in college back home in Russia and how she was here for an advanced program in PR. I told her all about being bishop of Nevada and she gave us a discount. It was a very nice place but there were no lampshades. Incongruous. We spent the evening watching one of our favorite films, Men In Black.<br /><br />The next day was a landmark occasion. We consecrated the church building at St. Patrick’s. The congregation has been worshiping there several years. But this year they paid off the mortgage so we could consecrate it as holy and wholly unencumbered ground. This frees St. Pat’s to devote half its income to community ministries (following the good example of St. Christopher’s, Boulder City) and become in Fr. Jim Beebe’s words, “the church for others.”

The Inevitable Happens At Last

It finally happened. After 19 months, the inevitable. Today, I pulled the diocesan car (still held together by duct tape) into a parking spa...

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The Pitfalls of Telecommuting

The Pitfalls of Telecommuting by CareerBuilder.com<br /><br />When we think about telecommuting, we often focus on the blissful freedoms that come with it. Freedom to set our own hours, raid the refrigerator... even take early morning calls in our underwear. There are other conveniences as well: no more rush hour traffic and more time for family interaction.<br /><br />Yet as great as all that sounds, telecommuting can have its drawbacks, as well. Here are some of the challenges telecommuters face as well as suggestions for how to overcome them:<br /><br />Family "Turf" Problems.<br />When your family or significant other(s) are not used to having you around the house, your sudden and constant presence can cause tension and disruption. Children who are used to having the run of the house can resent having to stay quiet and out of the telecommuter's work area. Spouses forget that the telecommuter is actually working and can shift an unreasonable amount of household responsibility upon him or her.<br /><br />To avoid these types of tensions, set up your workspace in a quiet area away from the central traffic of the house. Establish work/life boundaries. And don't even think about trying to work and watch small children at the same time! Let the other members of your household know that even though you're home, you're on the job and need to block out eight or nine hours to complete your daily work.<br /><br />Social Isolation.<br />Some telecommuters find they miss the social aspects of working with other people. Irline, a copywriter and new mother, thought working from home would be ideal, because she could be close to her daughter during the day. However, once Irline began her arrangement, she no longer found her job satisfying; she missed the collegial atmosphere of her office and said her work suffered. "As an extrovert, I get energy from those around me," Irline reflects. "I thrive on social interaction... being able to wander down the hall and kick around ideas with my co-workers helps my creativity and keeps me charged."<br /><br />While some people can compensate by keeping in contact by phone or e-mail, others need social contact on a frequent basis in order to work productively. Irline ended up going back to the office and telecommuting just one day a week.<br /><br />Staying Focused.<br />Some find it difficult to work from home because it is full of distractions and diversions but devoid of anyone to manage them and keep them on track. Neighbors drop by to chat, the school calls for volunteers or a particularly juicy episode of Oprah is airing. Only the most organized, independent and disciplined of workers will be successful telecommuting.<br /><br />To stay on course, keep in close contact with your boss and co-workers to ensure you meet their expectations. Develop a regular routine and set goals and deadlines for completing your work. Find ways to reward yourself for being productive.<br /><br />Being Visible.<br />Still others are concerned that by not physically being in the office they will be forgotten or overlooked for plum assignments and promotions. To make sure you don't become a case of out-of-sight/out-of-mind, make yourself available for meetings, conferences and industry events. Schedule a lunch date with your boss and co-workers at least once a week and keep your boss apprised of your progress and accomplishments.<br /><br />And finally, don't let concerns of telecommuting become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Remember managing your career is more about performance than presence.<br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

The Pitfalls of Telecommuting

The Pitfalls of Telecommuting by CareerBuilder.com When we think about telecommuting, we often focus on the blissful freedoms that come with...

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What the Class of 2009 Will Earn - College Graduates Finding Bright Spots in Dreary Economy

What the Class of 2009 Will Earn - College Graduates Finding Bright Spots in Dreary Economy by Brad Dunn, PARADE<br /><br />The Class of 2009 has been watching the job market disintegrate since senior year began.<br /><br />The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) released another round of discouraging data in early May. Fewer than one in five graduates who are looking for jobs have found one, and employers are planning to hire 22 percent fewer graduates this year than they did last year.<br /><br />On top of that, the worst job market in 25 years has brought of a sense of déjà vu to households across the country. Many of the estimated 1.6 million students graduating college in May and June have parents who went searching for their first jobs in the equally dismal early-1980s. It's an economic rerun for the whole family.<br /><br />"You are graduating into a world of anxiety and uncertainty," Vice President Joe Biden told graduates of Syracuse University. "But these are the moments you can embrace ... only a handful of us ever get a chance to actually shape the course of history."<br /><br />History might need shaping, but now is a great time for graduates to embrace the positive. The numbers aren't all bad.<br /><br />For one, bachelor's degrees are still vital for landing jobs. According to the U.S. Labor Department, the unemployment rate among four-year college graduates between age 20 and 24 is 6.1 percent, while those with only high-school diplomas is 19.6 percent.<br /><br />Serious job hunters also can take advantage of their fellow graduates' idleness. Right now, fewer students are seeking jobs than in years past. By this time in 2007, about 64 percent of graduates had begun looking for a job. In 2008, about 67 percent had begun. This year, only 59 percent have launched a job search. That's about 130,000 fewer people competing for work.<br /><br />"Whether they've decided to delay their careers because of the economy or don't realize how tough the job market is, fewer grads have started job hunting," said Andrea Koncz, employment information manager at NACE.<br /><br />Another silver lining: Several industries actually are planning to hire more graduates this year than in 2008, including transportation, utilities and alternative energy.<br /><br />"The big openings right now are in the solar industry. Anything green," said Eric Lochtefeld, founder of University of Dreams, an organization that seeks internships for students. "The nice thing is there's not a huge level of experience expected because it's a new sector."<br /><br />Uncle Sam is also hiring. U.S. and state governments are planning to hire 6 percent more college graduates than last year, and federal are offering up to 60,000 internships.<br /><br />"Not only is the government hiring, it's providing salaries and benefits in line with the private sector," said Tim McManus, vice president of education and outreach at the Partnership for Public Service. "We're in a unique time and place in this country. Graduates who used to look for careers on Wall Street, for example, are now seeing that they can have a greater impact in government."<br /><br />For graduates who have landed jobs, how much are they earning?<br /><br />To date, the average job offer to a 2009 graduate with a bachelor's degree is $48,515, down about 2 percent from last year, according to NACE. (Parents who got their first jobs in the early 1980s had it slightly better. The average job offer for the Class of 1982 was $22,450 -- or, adjusted for inflation, $49,485).<br /><br />To be sure, an entry-level salary of $48,000 seems high in this economy. However, that amount represents only the one in five graduates who have already been offered employment, and pre-graduation job offers tend to come from relatively lucrative industries, including engineering, computer sciences and health care.<br /><br />In specific fields of study, NACE found that the average job offer was $58,438 for engineering students; $57,693 for computer science students; $46,973 for business students; and, $36,807 for liberal arts students.<br /><br />What about all those government jobs? McManus said most graduates with bachelor's degrees receive a base starting salary from $33,000 to $42,000, plus "locality pay," which raises it between 13 percent and 34 percent depending on the cost of living where they work.<br /><br />Job seekers' increasing reliance on technology also gives graduates an opportunity to set themselves apart. Those who apply old-fashioned job-hunting techniques have a better chance of outmatching those who rely solely on online submission forms.<br /><br />"Students say all the time, 'I submitted my resume online and I never heard back.'" Lochtefeld says. "The best advice that I can give to students is stop playing the numbers game. Things that worked 20 years ago before the Internet -- direct contact, person-to-person networking -- still work today."<br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

What the Class of 2009 Will Earn - College Graduates Finding Bright Spots in Dreary Economy

What the Class of 2009 Will Earn - College Graduates Finding Bright Spots in Dreary Economy by Brad Dunn, PARADE The Class of 2009 has been ...

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Beware of Hidden Interview Pitfalls

Beware of Hidden Interview Pitfalls by CareerBuilder.com<br /><br />Suit. Check<br />Two hours of company research. Check<br />Three hours practicing answers to interview questions. Check<br />Extra copies of resume. Check<br />Fancy leather folder thingy to hold extra copies of resume. Check<br />Limp, wet handshake. Huh?<br /><br />All the expert interview advice and all the practice in the world still might not prepare you for hidden traps that can trip you up and foil your job interview.<br /><br />Weak Handshake<br />Science backs up what the etiquette books have been saying all along, that a firm handshake helps make a good first impression for both males and females. A University of Alabama study found there is a substantial relationship between the features that characterize a firm handshake (strength, vigor, duration, eye contact and completeness of grip) and a favorable first impression.<br /><br />The proper handshake should be firm, with an energy that communicates sincerity, strength and professionalism, says Dianne M. Daniels, a certified image coach and author of Polish and Presence: 31 Days to a New Image. Extend your arm with your hand outstretched with thumb straight up. Slide your hand into the other person's until your webs touch and give a firm, not squeezing, pump.<br /><br />Not Asking Questions<br />Not asking an interview questions sends a signal that you don't know enough about the business to ask an intelligent question, or it shows that you don't see yourself within the environment of the company. At best, it shows a lack of creativity. Your questions do more than show your interest; they can also provide valuable information you can use in assessing the job.<br /><br />If you are a good listener, you should be able to follow up on something the interviewer said during your visit. Ask him or her to expand on what was said. This shows you were attentive and also shows where your interests lie.<br /><br />Most career counselors advise applicants to have a number of questions rehearsed and ready to go. Many of the prepared topics will be discussed during the course of the interview, but there should be some left over at the end. Have several ready so you can return the serve.<br /><br />Employment Background Check<br />Statistics show that the number of companies conducting background checks is growing. For some jobs, screening is required by federal or state law. For others, it's a way for employers to learn more about each candidate and ensure the hiring decisions they make are good ones.<br /><br />Some employers will use your credit history to gauge your level of responsibility. Whether a valid assumption or not, employers who run credit checks are likely to believe that if you are not reliable in paying your bills, then you will not be a reliable employee. Unfortunately, a bad credit report can work against you in your search for employment.<br /><br />So you won't be surprised, you can do your own check and make sure the information is correct. Order a copy of your credit report, check court and DMV records and ask to see a copy of your personnel file from your old job. One option CareerBuilder.com offers is SureCheck, which enables job seekers to increase their marketability by pre-screening their own personal histories and credentials for potential employers.<br /><br />Brainteaser Questions<br />Tell me about yourself. Why does this job interest you? How many quarters would you have to stack to reach the top of the Empire State Building? Designed to measure candidates' intelligence, creativity and analytical skills, brainteasers and logic questions often involve obscure subjects.<br /><br />Recruiters aren't that concerned with whether a candidate comes up with the precise answer, but rather insight into their thought process and whether they work thorough problems in a logical manner.<br /><br />These types of questions are meant to make you think on your feet; the trick is to start big and take it one step at a time. The only sure-fire way to fail at these questions is to be stumped. Offer up your ideas even if they seem bizarre.<br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

Beware of Hidden Interview Pitfalls

Beware of Hidden Interview Pitfalls by CareerBuilder.com Suit. Check Two hours of company research. Check Three hours practicing answers to ...

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Should You Pursue an Online Degree?

Should You Pursue an Online Degree? by CareerBuilder.com<br /><br />Education or experience: Many people find that their career reaches a plateau and that employers place greater value on employees with a higher level of education or one more relevant to the modern workplace. Anyone that has ever been passed over for promotion only to find a college graduate in the post will know how frustrating it can be.<br /><br />An online degree offers the perfect solution. There are a huge variety of degree programs available on-line which can be pursued to bachelor's, master's or doctoral level. Professional qualifications are also attainable via the Internet. With the advances in information technology over the past decade, there is no reason to get stuck in a rut. Whether it is nursing, education, business management or information technology, a development of an existing career or a whole new departure, there is an online program to suit you.<br /><br />Advantages of online education<br />Few adults are able to return to college to pursue further education --they have jobs and families to support. Even on-campus adult education programs can be unfeasible for some. Consequently, adults seeking access to continued education are increasingly turning to online programs. The freedom to study how and when they want is essential.<br /><br />Many professionals work irregular hours or travel as part of their job. An online degree program allows study wherever and whenever a busy schedule allows. Even if you are living abroad, you can gain a degree online from an American university. The convenience and accessibility of an online degree makes it easier than ever to learn while you earn and enhance your career prospects.<br /><br />The value of education<br />Employers are not necessarily at fault in placing such value on a higher education. Degree programs are often vocational, providing students with broad, practical, up-to-date understanding of certain industries and equipping them with the skills and expertise that are in demand within them. Such graduates are assets for companies seeking a competitive edge in their sector.<br /><br />You can develop the skills that are rewarded through an on-line degree program. It is worth the investment, but there is no need to worry if you can't afford the fees. Financial aid is available in many cases, especially for active or retired US military personnel.<br /><br />Online degrees versus traditional programs<br />People that have been out of education for some time often worry that on-line degrees are less highly regarded than traditional, on-campus qualifications. This may once have been the case but online degree programs are now rightly perceived to be topical, challenging and highly relevant. They are designed with the needs of working adult learners in mind and are developed in consultation with experienced professionals in industry and business to ensure that students learn concepts and methods that are immediately applicable in their work environment.<br /><br />Technology has progressed so that quality and content do not need to be sacrificed to allow for flexibility and accessibility. And, in a technological age, the ability to complete a degree online is an asset. Employers are likewise impressed by the initiative, ambition and self-motivation demonstrated by an employee who takes advantage of the Internet to develop their knowledge and their career. It is important to ensure that the degree you pursue is from an accredited university so that it will be treated with respect by employers. Gaining accreditation is a difficult and costly process so it is a good way to identify legitimate universities.<br /><br />Enhance your career prospects<br />Online education provides access to learning that would otherwise be inaccessible to many people. Web-based programs present a flexible, independent learning opportunity that fits the schedule of busy people and complements their experience. It is time to re-gain the advantage so get started today.<br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

Should You Pursue an Online Degree?

Should You Pursue an Online Degree? by CareerBuilder.com Education or experience: Many people find that their career reaches a plateau and t...

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It's my party and I'll cry if I want to

Today is my birthday. I'm officially 54 years old. For months I've been saying I'm almost 54 so it doesn't feel like a big shock.<br /><br />I don't feel like I'm 54. I feel like I did in my twenties, maybe even better now because I didn't exercise much in my early twenties. Back then I was always doing crash diets, trying to lose 10-20 pounds. My goal weight was 125 (I'm 5' 6" and the closest I got to that goal was 127 in my 40's, not realistic). I was kind of an idiot about health. I really wanted to be skinny, not healthy. <br /><br />I definitely feel smarter about a lot of things in life, and I'm not as shy as when I was younger. I believe in a healthy lifestyle instead of focusing on being skinny. Overall I'm a much happier person now that I was in my twenties. Of course, I didn't appreciate my youth, but then, who does? <br /><br />I'm still in Tulsa, hopefully heading home tonight. It's been an intensely stressful week. I went to the gym last night, but didn't go inside. Instead I sat in the parking and had a good cry. <br /><br />I've been practically joined at the hip with my coworker. Breakfast, lunch, dinner together. All day in the lab working through problems. We get along really well, being the same age and the having the same interests (he's a bit of a health nut but loves to eat just like me). We had our first argument last night about a work problem. Not a screaming match or anything like that (I save those for my husband). It was just a disagreement that I could see made him angry. It was totally work related, but it made me feel bad. He's a coworker first, friend second. I'm the project manager, he's the developer. There are bound to be clashes. <br /><br />After my good cry in the gym parking lot (I need to grow thicker skin) I decided not to work out. The first time this week. I stopped at Walmart on my way home and bought cookies and milk. I ate half a dozen cookies in front of the TV. I woke up this morning feeling much better, but too late for the gym. <br /><br />I can't wait to go home. I'm tired, I miss my cat and my husband (not necessarily in that order), and I miss my routine. Happy birthday to me.<br /><br />Oh - my birthday present to myself is going to be roller blades. I've been wanting them forever. Hope I don't fall and break a hip.

It's my party and I'll cry if I want to

Today is my birthday. I'm officially 54 years old. For months I've been saying I'm almost 54 so it doesn't feel like a big s...

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"Tell Me About Yourself" The Toughest Question in the Interview

"Tell Me About Yourself" The Toughest Question in the Interview by Don Straits, CEO and Dragon Slayer, Corporate Warriors<br /><br />When you, as a job seeker, are asked the most common, and toughest, interview question, "Tell me about yourself," your answer can make or break you as a candidate. Usually job seekers will respond with their "30 second commercial," and then elaborate on their background. While almost every career book and career counselor will tell you that is the appropriate response, I totally disagree.<br /><br />Many people fail in their job search because they are too often focused on what they want in a job including industry, type of position, location, income, benefits, and work environment. Their "30 second commercial" is centered around this premise. The commercial describes the job seeker's career history and what they are looking for. Too often, this is in direct contrast to what employers are looking for.<br /><br />There are two dominant reasons why job seekers are successful in the job search. The first is focusing on the needs of the organization. The second is focusing on the needs of the people within that organization. In this article, we are going to examine how to focus on the needs of the people within organizations. This will assist in rethinking your response to that all-important question, "Tell me about yourself."<br /><br />In order to learn how to respond to the needs of the interviewer, let's first learn more about ourselves. We can then apply that knowledge about ourselves to knowing how to understand and respond to the needs of others.<br /><br />Most social psychologists recognize four basic personality styles: Analytical, Amiable, Expressive, and Driver. Usually, each of us exhibits personality characteristics unique to one of the styles. However, we also possess characteristics to a lesser degree in the other styles. To determine your unique style, you can take a Myers-Briggs assessment or go to the following site for a free Keirsey Temperament Sorter assessment test: www.keirsey.com<br /><br />Here are the characteristics that are most commonly associated with each of the styles:<br /><br />Analytical:<br />Positive Traits: Precise, Methodical, Organized, Rational, Detail Oriented<br />Negative Traits: Critical, Formal, Uncertain, Judgmental, Picky<br /><br />Amiable:<br />Positive Traits: Cooperative, Dependable, Warm, Listener, Negotiator<br />Negative Traits: Undisciplined, Dependent, Submissive, Overly Cautious, Conforming<br /><br />Expressive:<br />Positive Traits: Enthusiastic, Persuasive, Outgoing, Positive, Communicator<br />Negative Traits: Ego Centered, Emotional, Exploitive, Opinionated, Reacting<br /><br />Driver:<br />Positive Traits: Persistent, Independent, Decision Maker, Effective, Strong Willed<br />Negative Traits: Aggressive, Strict, Intense, Relentless, Rigid<br /><br />Gaining an in-depth understanding of your personality style has enormous value in your career as well as your personal life. However, our focus today is learning how to use this knowledge to make you more successful in your job search.<br /><br />Once you have learned about your own style and have studied the other styles, I encourage you to have a little fun in trying to determine the styles of others. When you meet someone for the first time, try to identify his or her style within the first two minutes. You can often identify styles by observing a person's demeanor, conversation, body language, appearance, and possessions.<br /><br />To demonstrate what I mean, let's take some examples from the business world. While there are always exceptions, generally speaking the styles fit the example.<br /><br />Analytical Style: Financial Manager (or programmers, engineers, and accountants). They like systems and procedures. They are slow to make decisions because they will analyze things to death?but their decisions are usually very sound. They prefer working independently and are usually not very good in team environments, but they are also dependable. They buy cars with good resale value and great gas mileage. They are conservative dressers. At the party, they want to know why so much money was spent on Michelob when we could have purchased Busch. They come to the party with their laptops.<br /><br />Amiable Style: Human Resources Manager. Very people-focused. They are dependable, loyal and easygoing; very compassionate. They will give you the shirt off their backs and the last nickel in their pockets. They are good listeners and value team players who don't "rock the boat." They are usually conformists and followers?rarely leaders. They avoid conflict and are not good decision makers. They drive four-door sedans or mini-vans to take the kids to sporting events. They usually clean up after the party is over.<br /><br />Expressive Style: Sales Manager. Very outgoing and enthusiastic, with a high energy level. They are also great idea generators, but usually do not have the ability to see the idea through to completion. Very opinionated and egotistical. Money motivated. They can be good communicators. They prefer to direct and control rather then ask and listen. They drive red convertibles with great stereos; to heck with the gas mileage. They come up with the idea for a company party, but never help clean up. They are on their way to another party.<br /><br />Driver: Corporate CEO. Intelligent, intense, focused, relentless. They thrive on the thrill of the challenge and the internal motivation to succeed. Money is only a measure of success; it is not the driving factor. They are results/performance oriented. They have compassion for the truly disadvantaged, but absolutely no patience or tolerance for the lazy or whiners. They drive prestige cars, not because the car attracts attention, but because it was a wise investment. They want to know why we had a party; what were the benefits of the party, and did we invite the banker?<br /><br />Ok, now you are really getting some insight into your style and the style of others. It is time for the interviews. Throw out your 30-second commercial. Think on your feet.<br /><br />You will be interviewing with the human resource manager, the finance manager, the sales manager, and the CEO. The first question each of them will ask you is: "Tell me about yourself." How should you respond? Remember the second reason for succeeding in a job search: focus on the needs of the people in the organization. Here are just a few examples of how to respond to that question:<br /><br />"Tell me about yourself?"<br /><br />Response to Finance Manager: "I have been successful in my career by making well-thought-out decisions based on careful analysis of all factors. I approach problems with logic and sound reasoning. I would enjoy working with you in developing the appropriate systems and procedures to make our two departments function efficiently together."<br /><br />Response to Human Resource Manager: "My career has been characterized by my ability to work well with diverse teams. I seek out opportunities to involve others in the decision-making process. This collaboration and communication is what has enabled me to achieve success in my department. People are the most valuable resource of any organization."<br /><br />Response to Sales Manager: "Throughout my career I have always adhered to the principle that everyone in the organization must be sales-focused. My department is always trained in customer service, providing outstanding support to the sales team and to our customers. Without sales, the rest of use would not have a job. I look forward to helping you drive sales in any way possible."<br /><br />Response to CEO: "I have achieved success in my career because I have been focused on the bottom line. I have always sought out innovative solutions to challenging problems to maximize profitability. Regardless of the task or challenge, I always established benchmarks of performance and standards of excellence. I have never sought to maintain the "status quo." An organization that does not change and grow will die. I would enjoy working with you to help define new market opportunities in order to achieve the organization's goals."<br /><br />In each instance, we responded to the "needs of the individual." It is almost guaranteed that, when you respond appropriately to the diverse needs of the different managers, you will become the standard by which all of the other candidates will be measured.<br /><br />I challenge you to learn about your personality and leadership style, learn about the styles of others, and learn how to think on your feet when responding to questions. Whether you are seeking a job or you are gainfully employed, by understanding the needs of others you will become a more valuable person, employee, manager and leader.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Don Straits, CEO and Dragon Slayer, Corporate Warriors<br /><br />Don is recognized as a nationwide authority on contemporary job search strategies and technologies for executives. His organization produces world-class online multi-media resume portfolios and provides out-of-the-box coaching for his/her clients. Don can be contacted at don@corporatewarriors.com or (916) 630-4545. Website: www.corporatewarriors.com.<br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

"Tell Me About Yourself" The Toughest Question in the Interview

"Tell Me About Yourself" The Toughest Question in the Interview by Don Straits, CEO and Dragon Slayer, Corporate Warriors When you...

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Hot Tips and Cool Tricks to Drive your Job Search

Hot Tips and Cool Tricks to Drive your Job Search by Donald Straits, CEO and Dragon Slayer, Corporate Warriors<br /><br />Grab a cup of coffee or a nice cool drink, get settled in front of your computer, put your thinking cap on, and now let's go to work. Print out the following list of hot tips and cool tricks. Now as you read each one, think about how the tip or trick applies to your search situation. Type out your ideas so that you can organize them and put them to work for you. They may not all apply, but guaranteed, you will see opportunities to change your job search strategy.<br /><br />Some of the ideas are out-of-the-box, innovative tips and tricks that break traditional rules. The other ideas may be very traditional, but are worth repeating. Many people are not using these basic, extraordinarily important, concepts. For example. Proofread. Proofread. Proofread. I look at dozens of resumes every day, and almost every resume has mistakes in grammar, punctuation or spelling. It is a death sentence for the job seeker.<br /><br />1. Don't be trapped in the traditional one- or two-page resume "box." Make a powerful first impression with a comprehensive portfolio, including a two- to four-page resume, key accomplishment summaries (one page each) and statements of industry, company, or functional job insights. Integrate graphs, tables or charts throughout your resume or portfolio.<br /><br />2. Avoid these common resume mistakes: weak demonstration of results, disorganized, run-on or wordy sentences, and too much irrelevant information such as long lists of coursework, certificates and personal family history. Most importantly, avoid the use of "half-sentences" that only tell what you did and do not define the results you achieved. Once again, avoid misspellings, typing errors and grammatical blunders that are far too commonplace.<br /><br />3. When posting your resume on CareerBuilder.com, consider taking advantage of the "upgrade" so that your resume always appears near the top of the list. All postings appear in chronological order with the exception of the "upgrades" which get priority placement. Without the upgrade option, your resume will quickly appear down further on the list because of the huge volume of postings. It is worth the minor investment.<br /><br />4. The primary reason why most job seekers fail in their job search is that they are too focused on themselves (job title, responsibilities, compensation, location, growth opportunity, and status). The job seekers who achieve success in their job search are focused on the needs of the organization to which they are applying and the needs of the people in that organization.<br /><br />5. Don't be trapped by looking backward at your last position with regret or anger. Eyes forward with enthusiasm, energy and confidence for the new opportunities that lie in the future!<br /><br />6. After you suffer a job loss, do not "retreat" or "escape" behind the doors of your house. The exact opposite should be the case. Seek out every opportunity to expand your network through new friends. Become active in professional organizations and community groups. Meet new people in social and athletic situations; engage those people in conversations on how you can help them and then they, in turn, will help you.<br /><br />7. Get organized and committed. The biggest mistake most people make is finding excuses for not being active in their job search. Develop a daily working plan and stick to it!<br /><br />8. Here is a tip that breaks the rules: Do not develop a 30-second "commercial" that tells people about yourself. Too often, that "commercial" sounds "scripted" and it rarely is suited for every situation. Rather, think more about the individual to whom you are speaking, what his/her needs are, and how you can help him/her, given your leadership and expertise. Example: If you are talking to an HR person, talk about team building, collaboration and being open to ideas. If you are interviewing with a sales manager, talk about your energy, drive, new products, sales opportunities and how everyone in the organization should be considered part of the sales team. If you are meeting with an analytical type of person (i.e. financial or technical manager), talk about the importance of systems, processes, details, organization and procedures. If you are meeting with a senior department head, talk about the importance of generating bottom line results.<br /><br />9. Don't think so much about how to answer tough questions. If you are a talented, you will have the ability to think "on your feet" and answer those questions. More importantly, think about what kind of tough questions are important to ask. Asking penetrating questions demonstrates your expertise and job insights.<br /><br />10. When responding to questions, tell great stories that illustrate the point you are trying to make. Answering a question with facts and figures touches the interviewer's mind. However, if you answer questions with a great story, you touch his/her heart. Once you touch someone's heart, you've got him/her "in your pocket."<br /><br />11. When you define your career, think in terms of your leadership and contributions to the bottom line. Do not think in terms of job history, experience, or skill set.<br /><br />12. When you prepare for an interview, go beyond the traditional company research. Develop a list of key insights into emerging trends, opportunities, issues, and challenges for the industry, company or position. Your insights or viewpoints will demonstrate your leadership and vision. Also do field research. Talk with employees, customers, vendors and write out the summaries of your research. The knowledge you gained will give you an edge over other job seekers.<br /><br />13. When networking, instead of talking about yourself, ask questions that identify the needs of the people with whom you are talking. By understanding their agenda, you are more likely to come up with the right responses to their questions. It is commonly accepted that great conversationalists do the least amount of talking but ask the best questions.<br /><br />14. If you are over 40, hit the books and become contemporary in state-of-the-art concepts for your industry or functional area. Many mature job seekers are passed over because they are not up-to-date. Also, regardless of your industry or position, become proficient in current computer technology and applications. If you don't heed both of the above suggestions, you will discover you will soon no longer be marketable<br /><br />15. To secure a position, your ability to do the job is only a small piece of the total puzzle. Hiring managers are more interested in the following: initiative, willingness to accept responsibility, ability to grow within your job and the company, your ability to assume authority when required, your respect of authority, your level of expertise, your ability to manage and lead others, your ability to work in a team environment, a personality that demonstrates self-confidence, the courage to make tough decisions, compatibility with the corporate culture, and your demonstration of high energy and enthusiasm.<br /><br />While the above cool tips and hot tricks only scratch the surface, they will help you rethink your search strategy and get you pointed in the right direction. We all know that today's job market is tough, so the message is persistence. Get focused, implement great strategies, and stay motivated. Hang in there. You are going to succeed.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Don Straits, CEO and Dragon Slayer, Corporate Warriors<br /><br />Don is recognized as a nationwide authority on contemporary job search strategies and technologies for executives. His organization produces world-class online multi-media resume portfolios and provides out-of-the-box coaching for his/her clients. Don can be contacted at don@corporatewarriors.com or (916) 630-4545. Website: www.corporatewarriors.com.<br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

Hot Tips and Cool Tricks to Drive your Job Search

Hot Tips and Cool Tricks to Drive your Job Search by Donald Straits, CEO and Dragon Slayer, Corporate Warriors Grab a cup of coffee or a nic...

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What's Better: Send an E-mail or Talk Face-to-Face?

What's Better: Send an E-mail or Talk Face-to-Face? By Kerry Patterson, co-author of the national bestseller, 'Crucial Confrontations'<br /><br />In today's well-connected world, hi-tech gadgets and gizmos can help us communicate more easily. Technology has made communication nearly instantaneous, incredibly convenient and enormously accessible. But has it somehow made us less effective communicators? Should we monitor our method of communication more carefully? Does it really affect our messages?<br /><br />The answer to all of these question is "Yes" -- especially when you consider that many of us are already far too savvy at finding ways to avoid face-to-face conversations that involve strong emotions or high stakes.<br /><br />When it comes to resolving broken promises, violated expectations or bad behavior with someone at work, resorting to hi-tech methods like e-mail, voice mail or text messages can amplify our problems.<br /><br />For example, a subordinate leaves a vague excuse on your voice mail after missing a key deadline, or a colleague e-mails your error-filled report to your boss instead of confronting you directly.<br /><br />According to a recent survey by VitalSmarts, a corporate training company, more than 87 percent of those polled admit that using hi-tech means to resolve a workplace confrontation has not been effective in their experience. Moreover, 89 percent say e-mail, text messaging and voice mail can get in the way of good workplace relationships.<br /><br />Even though the majority of respondents agree that we shouldn't be so indirect in our communication with co-workers, the question remains: When does ease and security trump the need to talk face-to-face?<br /><br />Regardless of the circumstances, people should think twice before pushing the "send" button and consider what they want long term -- even if the way to get there isn't always the easiest.<br /><br />Anytime non-verbal signals are important in deciphering the message, the news is particularly bad or sensitive, negative feedback is being delivered or differing opinions will ensue, face-to-face communication is a must. Consider the following:<br /><br />Giving delicate feedback.<br />Good example: You meet one-on-one to tell someone he has a hygiene problem. Any delicate or controversial conversation requires a tête-à-tête.<br />Bad example: You send a group e-mail to the whole team and announce, "One of you really needs to bathe more often."<br /><br />Working through a long-standing gripe.<br />Good example: You set aside a time and calmly and professionally discuss something that has you concerned.<br />Bad example: You e-mail a list of 'The Top 10 Reasons Everyone Despises You.'<br /><br />Confronting someone who has not delivered on a promise.<br />Good example: As soon as you find out someone has let you down, you factually describe what you expected and what you got. You don't wait and let it fester.<br />Bad example: You send this person a text message that asks: "How come you aren't as reliable as most people around here?"<br /><br />Delivering a controversial message.<br />Good example: You're going to reject a direct report's proposal -- one she has worked on for months. She deserves a complete explanation as well as an opportunity to engage in two-way dialogue.<br />Bad example: You leave her a voice mail saying, "Remember that proposal you came up with? Well, we rejected it. By the way, don't forget the boss's birthday lunch this afternoon."<br /><br />Delivering bad news.<br />Good example: When letting someone go, you treat the bad news as bad news. You allow the other person to show their concern and emotions.<br />Bad example: You send a singing e-card -- "Ta-da ta-da ta-ta: You no longer work here!"<br /><br />Kerry Patterson is co-author of the New York Times bestsellers 'Crucial C<br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

What's Better: Send an E-mail or Talk Face-to-Face?

What's Better: Send an E-mail or Talk Face-to-Face? By Kerry Patterson, co-author of the national bestseller, 'Crucial Confrontation...

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The Top 5 Things to Consider When Looking for a New Job

The Top 5 Things to Consider When Looking for a New Job by CareerBuilder.com<br /><br />Few people are exactly alike when determining what makes them happy at work, but there are some key drivers of job satisfaction. "Having performed countless exit interviews and evaluated job satisfaction criteria from a variety of employee surveys, I?ve found that there are a number of common factors that are important to employees? happiness, fit and sense of well-being at work," notes Rich Lakis, a Human Resources professional with more than 25 years experience in HR.<br /><br />Before making a leap into a new job, Lakis suggests you consider each of the following areas and ask these tough questions of yourself and your potential employer.<br /><br />Relationships<br /><br />With Manager: How employees and their managers get along is one of the strongest employee retention drivers. Ask your prospective manager during the interview process how she makes decisions and how she evaluates talent or superior performance. Can you work with the answers she gives?<br /><br />With Peers: Ask who you will be working with and how the people within the department interact. How have the relationships been in the past? Is there much interdependence? What will your colleagues expect of someone in your position?<br /><br />With Subordinates: Ask about the strengths and weaknesses of employees who might be working for you. Then decide if you have the skills to effectively manage them or if they have the skills to help the team achieve success.<br /><br />Work/Life Balance<br /><br />Location/Commute: Be honest with yourself in deciding how far and how much time you are willing to devote to your daily commute. Will it impede your ability to do things that are important to you, your significant other or children? Consider people important to you in making your decision, because home stress can make you less effective at work.<br /><br /><br />Travel: Will having a job that requires frequent overnight travel be an issue? Where will you draw the line? Are you willing to travel 20, 30 or 50 percent of the time? Ask how much travel is required and if it?s spread out evenly or concentrated during certain seasons or business cycles.<br /><br /><br />Amount of Work: Try to determine if the culture is one where there is frequent overtime. It?s reasonable to assume that many professional jobs will require you to do the work necessary to complete the job, but excessive overtime could mean insufficient resources or poor planning.<br /><br />The Kind of Work<br /><br />Autonomy: Do you like to work with little supervision or do you prefer detailed assignments? How might you handle being micromanaged?<br /><br />Type of Work: Ask questions that will help you gauge what portion of your new job involves project work, building client relationships, developing strategy, implementing tactics or doing creative work? Decide before taking on a new job what you like to actually do.<br /><br />Contribution: Will the work you do make a notable difference in your department? The company? Society? Does it matter to you?<br /><br />Growth Opportunities: What is the internal environment like relative to promotional opportunities? Ask if internal candidates have been considered for this job. If not, ask why and what that will mean to you in the future.<br /><br />The Company<br /><br />Values: People who feel disconnected with the values of the company often want to leave. Ask what the values are and how they are manifested in the day-to-day environment. Do employees just recite the company mantra or are they able to describe how these are applied in the workplace.<br /><br />Leadership: Are the leaders of the company people who you and others respect, admire and want to work for? Find out how long top management has been in place, what their backgrounds are and where they came from.<br /><br />Industry: Does the company/industry provide products or services with which you would want to be associated? Research news articles to determine if the industry is healthy and growing or if it companies within the industry are going through mergers, acquisitions or frequent restructurings.<br /><br />Financial Considerations<br /><br />Base Pay: Are you being offered a salary commensurate with your worth in the marketplace? Make sure it is enough to warrant leaving your current job/company.<br /><br />Incentive Pay: If you perform at a superior level, is there an upside opportunity or incentive pay? Consider how the total compensation compares to your past earnings and current expectations.<br /><br />Lakis suggests that once you have the answers to these questions, make a list of pros and cons and assign them relative weights of importance before making the final decision to accept a new job. You will be better off and better-prepared for what lies ahead.<br /><br />Rich Lakis is a Human Resources professional with more than 25 years experience in the field. He has worked as a consultant and at corporate jobs, most recently as the SVP of HR for a $2 billion company in the transportation sector.<br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

The Top 5 Things to Consider When Looking for a New Job

The Top 5 Things to Consider When Looking for a New Job by CareerBuilder.com Few people are exactly alike when determining what makes them h...

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Do Pretty People Earn More?

Do Pretty People Earn More? by Kate Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com<br /><br />Studies show attractive students get more attention and higher evaluations from their teachers, good-looking patients get more personalized care from their doctors, and handsome criminals receive lighter sentences than less attractive convicts. But how much do looks matter at work?<br /><br />The ugly truth, according to economics professors Daniel Hamermesh of the University of Texas and Jeff Biddle of Michigan State University, is that plain people earn 5 to 10 percent less than people of average looks, who in turn earn 3 to 8 percent less than those deemed good-looking.<br /><br />These findings concur with other research that shows the penalty for being homely exceeds the premium for beauty and that across all occupations, the effects are greater for men than women.<br /><br />A London Guildhall University survey of 11,000 33-year-olds found that unattractive men earned 15 percent less than those deemed attractive, while plain women earned 11 percent less than their prettier counterparts. In their report "Beauty, Productivity and Discrimination: Lawyers', Looks and Lucre," Hamermesh and Biddle found that the probability of a male attorney attaining early partnership directly correlates with how handsome he is.<br /><br />Size matters, too. A study released last year by two professors at the University of Florida and the University of North Carolina found that tall people earn considerably more money throughout their careers than their shorter coworkers, with each inch adding about $789 a year in pay.<br /><br />A survey of male graduates of the University of Pittsburgh found that the tallest students? average starting salary was 12 percent higher than their shorter colleagues?. The London Guildhall study showed that overweight women are more likely to be unemployed, and that those who are working earn on average five percent less than their trimmer peers.<br /><br />According to Dr. Gordon Patzer, who has spent over three decades studying and writing about physical attractiveness, human beings are hard-wired to respond more favorably to attractive people. Even studies of babies show they will look more intently and longer at prettier faces.<br /><br />"Good-looking men and women are generally judged to be more talented, kind, honest and intelligent than their less attractive counterparts," says Patzer. "Controlled studies show people go out of their way to help attractive people - of the same and opposite sex - because they want to be liked and accepted by good-looking people."<br /><br />This may not sound too pretty to those of us who were dealt a bad hand in the looks department. But don?t rush off to try out for the next round of Extreme Makeover just yet.<br /><br />Despite what the research tells us, some of the world?s most successful people have been ordinary looking at best, and you would never mistake the faces in Fortune for the faces in Esquire or Entertainment Weekly. Business legends are often of average height (Bill Gates at 5'9½") or even diminutive (Jack Welch, 5'8", and Ross Perot at 5'7"). What?s more, many folks who are lovely to look at complain that they lose out on jobs because people assume they are vacuous or "lightweights."<br /><br />How does this reconcile with all the research? Hiring managers say it is the appearance of confidence they find attractive, not the presence of physical beauty. And they contend that attractiveness has more to do with how you carry yourself and the energy you exude ? rather than having perfect features or a great physique.<br /><br />According to Gordon Wainright author of Teach Yourself Body Language, anyone can increase their attractiveness to others if they maintain good eye contact, act upbeat, dress well (with a dash of color to their wardrobe), and listen well. Wainright also stresses the importance of posture and bearing and suggests that for one week you stand straight, tuck in your stomach, hold your head high, and smile at those you meet. Based on many such experiments, Wainwright predicts you will begin to be treated with more warmth and respect and start attracting more people to you.<br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

Do Pretty People Earn More?

Do Pretty People Earn More? by Kate Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com Studies show attractive students get more attention and higher evaluations fro...

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Hope That Has Gotten Me Through My Worst Days

"The pity and love which make men revolt against suffering and evil were implanted in them by their Creator, who must be at least as good as His creatures. The evil in the world is there to be overcome, and it can be overcome. Love is active in the world: and who put it there? One day love will have the irresistible power it deserves to have." -- Hugh Marin, The Faith Of Robert Browning

Hope That Has Gotten Me Through My Worst Days

"The pity and love which make men revolt against suffering and evil were implanted in them by their Creator, who must be at least as go...

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Hiding Your Job Search From Your Boss

Hiding Your Job Search From Your Boss by Kate Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com<br /><br />Whether you hate your pay, commute, boss or just everything about it, you're desperate for a new job. With strong hiring forecasted and growing worker dissatisfaction, more people are poised to make the move to a new job. One of the biggest job seeker groups expected are those currently employed. In fact, four-in-ten workers plan to change jobs this year.<br /><br />No wonder people want to find new jobs. They have taken on more responsibilities and toil longer hours for the same pay. Leaders are seen as out-of-touch and incapable. Burnout is rampant. And the fear of losing one's job often postpones badly-needed vacations to recharge, causing even more burnout.<br /><br />But who has the time to look with a schedule that includes working 50-plus hours a week, going to school, caring for a family, running errands and trying to squeeze in some shut eye?<br /><br />Simple. You do it at work.<br /><br />While many aknowledge the less-than-ethical practice of surfing the Net for jobs while at work, we still scour job boards, company Web sites and list-servs. 11 million people on average search for jobs online every week. And job site traffic spikes on weekdays during lunchtime hours.<br /><br />Experts say to treat a job search like a full-time project, but how can you do that while working in a an open office and the boss looking over your shoulder? Here are some tips for conducting that stealthy search while still employed from Neil Lebovits, president and COO of Ajilon Professional Staffing in Saddlebrook, N.J.<br /><br />Be smart about e-mail.<br />Play it safe, Lebovits says. You need to keep your current job until you have a new one. E-mail watch policies vary by company, so you'll want to use a separate account, like Hotmail, when discussing job search-related items. Plus, employers would rather receive correspondence from personal accounts than from competitor addresses. And most importantly, you don't want to send a message to a potential new employer that you conduct job searches on company time.<br /><br />Don't wear your interview suit to your biz casual office.<br />Nothing sets off a red flag like wearing a suit to your dressed-down office. So how should you handle the wardrobe dilemma? For both men and women, suit bottoms (i.e. pants, skirts) are always passable for business casual. Lebovits suggests bringing a shoulder bag/duffle with a jacket in it, and change en route to/from the interview. For women, it is especially easy to wear a casual shell under a suit -- once a jacket and stockings are removed, no one will detect an afternoon interviewee. For men, make sure your shirt stands on its own without a tie and you can easily make the switch.<br /><br />Be discreet when gathering references.<br />It all comes down to discretion. Former co-workers who have left to go elsewhere are usually the first ones to turn to if you want to keep your search confidential. However, current co-workers are really the ideal names to pass along to your potential employer. Put a significant amount of thought into who will keep your confidence at your current job. "Oftentimes, people find peers rather than managers to be safer bets," Lebovits says. "As long as your reference can speak to your work ethic, enthusiasm, drive and accomplishments, you don't need to search high and low for a senior executive to speak on your behalf - go with who knows you best."<br /><br />Use your time wisely.<br />The breakfast interview is an ideal forum. Meetings scheduled at 8 a.m. are often over in time to arrive at work by 9 a.m. If they run over, any number of reasons can be offered for a delayed arrival. "I'd caution the use of excessive creativity when devising excuses for taking time off," Lebovits warns. "'Personal time' for a relaxing respite is still an acceptable reason for taking vacation time. Those who offer the 'sick' excuse run the risk of being asked to log on and work from home, or at least make themselves available." The best maneuvers are those when an interview can be tacked on to other pre-planned time off (long weekends, etc.) or non-work hours.<br /><br />Never stop giving your all at work.<br />Never stop giving your all, Lebovits advises. Job seekers often experience intense paranoia at their current job. If you devote yourself fully to what you're doing in the hours you're there (and job search with a vengeance in the hours when you're not), you'll continue to get the praise and recognition to keep you on track at your current job. In the end, the possibility always exists that you'll stay. Don't shoot yourself in the foot by causing suspicion where you are and maybe not landing anything else.<br /><br />Kate Lorenz is the article and advice editor for CareerBuilder.com. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues. Other CareerBuilder.com writers contributed to this article.<br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

Hiding Your Job Search From Your Boss

Hiding Your Job Search From Your Boss by Kate Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com Whether you hate your pay, commute, boss or just everything about it...

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Maximize Your Job Fair Experience

Maximize Your Job Fair Experience by Kate Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com<br /><br />Have you been searching long and hard for a job, only to keep hitting roadblocks when you try to make contact with companies in your community? If so, it's time to start utilizing another great job searching resource - the career fair.<br /><br />Career fairs are great places to get your foot in the door. These events provide job seekers with important face time with dozens of companies that are actively looking for candidates, and do so all in one place.<br /><br />Making your mark at a career fair doesn't happen just by showing up. A successful career fair experience takes planning, preparation and the confidence to sell yourself. If you want to use this resource to help jump start your search, follow these tips before, during and after the fair.<br /><br />Before the Fair - It All Comes Down to Homework<br /><br />Get a guest list. Your first step is to find out which companies will be participating. You can do this by contacting the career fair organizers or by doing your own research. Many career fairs have Web sites that list participating companies or list the companies on brochures and other advertising materials. Once you have the list, highlight several companies that are of interest to you.<br /><br /><br />Do your research. Research the companies that will be attending the fair. Look at their Web sites, read their press releases, and search your local newspaper for stories. Look for recent acquisitions that indicate that the company is growing, new products that have been introduced, or any other business news that gives you an idea of where the company is headed and how you can play a role.<br /><br /><br />Put your tools together. Once again, it's time to dust off your resume and make sure it is in tip top condition. Make sure it is current and that it sends a clear, concise picture of who you are and what you have to offer. Double check for spelling and grammatical errors and make sure your contact information is correct.<br /><br /><br />Practice, practice, practice. Get together with a friend or family member and practice answering typical interview questions such as "Tell me about yourself," or "What kind of position are you looking for?" Additionally, develop a list of questions you want to ask each company. One of the best ways to look prepared and professional is showing up with thoughtful, intelligent questions.<br /><br />During the Fair - Put On Your Best Show<br /><br />Dress the part. When you go to the career fair, you will undoubtedly see people walking around in jeans and t-shirts. Don?t be one of those people. A career fair is your chance to make a good first impression with a potential new employer. Wear a conservative business suit, make sure you look well groomed, and carry your materials in a professional folder or portfolio.<br /><br /><br />Don't forget your ammo. You spent all that time making sure your resume was ready to go, so don't blow your chances by forgetting to bring it. Bring many copies printed out on professional resume paper, as well as a few copies of your references list. Be prepared to hand these out many times throughout the day.<br /><br /><br />Be confident and proactive. A career fair is no place to be shy and demure. The best way to make a lasting impression is by being aggressive. Approach the companies that interest you, make eye contact and introduce yourself with a firm handshake. Take the initiative and tell them about yourself and why you are interested in their company. Answer questions succinctly, with solid examples of your strengths and qualifications. Ask your prepared questions and listen intently to the answers. Tie in what you know about their company from your research to the type of job you are seeking.<br /><br /><br />Ask for information. Whatever you do, don?t leave a company booth without getting a business card and company brochure. This might be the only opportunity you have to meet with the hiring manager face to face and you will want his or her contact information later.<br /><br />After the Fair - Close the Deal<br /><br />Follow up. Just like a job interview, it is important to follow up after a career fair. Using the business cards you collected, write letters to key company representatives. Thank them for taking the time to speak with you, reiterate your strengths, and let them know that you will call them to follow up in a couple of days. Then, be true to your word and call. Just make sure you don?t waste the opportunity you had at the career fair. Your due diligence afterwards can be as important as your preparation.<br /><br />Kate Lorenz is the article and advice editor for CareerBuilder.com. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues. Other writers contributed to this article.<br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

Maximize Your Job Fair Experience

Maximize Your Job Fair Experience by Kate Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com Have you been searching long and hard for a job, only to keep hitting ro...

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Why Won't They Pay Me What I Am Worth?

Why Won't They Pay Me What I Am Worth? by Don Straits, CEO and Dragon Slayer, Corporate Warriors<br /><br />I wish I had a dollar for every time people complained to me that they are not paid what they are worth. I could retire rich. Almost everyone, regardless of income, education or position, believes that he or she should be earning more money. People at minimum wage obviously want to make more, but people at the highest levels also want more.<br /><br />Professional athletes are a prime example. National Hockey League players make about $1.8 million annually, on average. They recently could not reach agreement with owners on an annual contract, despite the fact that the league is in extreme financial difficulty. As a result, the entire hockey season was cancelled.<br /><br />Hey, it's tough to feed a family on $1.8 million these days. On one hand, the belief that we are "entitled" to more compensation speaks well for us as individuals. We possess strong self-worth and self-esteem and believe we should be highly compensated for who we are. On the other hand, too often our expectations are not founded on the realities of the marketplace or on our ability to "earn" our income based on performance.<br /><br />If you want to maximize your compensation, there are a number of tactics you can use to demonstrate your value. Let?s take a look at some of these tactics.<br /><br />1. Document Your Accomplishments. Here is an effective way to do that. Break your accomplishments into three parts. First, define the problem, situation or challenge in about two or three sentences. Second, in a bulleted format, show step-by-step how you solved the problem or accomplished the task. Finally, in a results paragraph, describe how your accomplishment was a benefit to the organization. Use good quantitative results if possible. Otherwise, define it in strong qualitative terms. During your annual performance review, present your written accomplishments to your boss. It is really tough to argue with well-documented performance. Odds are you will get your raise or promotion.<br /><br />2. Find a Mentor. It is invaluable to have someone within your organization fighting for your success. It is not as difficult to find a mentor as some people think. It just takes the courage to ask. You might try a simple approach like the following: "I have always admired and respected what you have done for the company and the success you have achieved. As I grow in this job and in my career, I was wondering if, on occasion, you would be willing to give me some advice and guidance on how I might achieve success as well?" It is rare that anyone would say "NO" to such a nice comment and question. Give it a try. The rewards will be immense.<br /><br />3. Continue Your Education. You can never have too much education and you are never too old to learn. Invariably education leads to new job opportunities, promotions and pay raises. Get that college degree; and then perhaps a graduate degree. But your education doesn?t have to be in college. Take trade courses, training seminars, or simply conduct independent research and study. You will never regret it.<br /><br />4. Stay Contemporary. If you are "out of date" and "out of touch" with what is happening in the world, then your earning power will go "out the door." From technology advances to world news to the latest business, cultural and fashion trends, they are all relevant. By being able to communicate about what is happening all around us, we enhance our value and we become more marketable.<br /><br />5. Perform Beyond Expectations. Always do more than you were asked to do. Take initiative to achieve superior results and make unexpected contributions. You will be recognized and rewarded for it.<br /><br />6. Ask for the Raise or Promotion. If you have done your "homework," meaning you have followed all the steps above and established your value through exceptional performance, prepare your case and present it to your boss. You will be amazed at how often your initiative will totally launch your career in a new direction. The opportunities to earn "what you are worth" are out there, but it is up to you to seek them out. Your goals and expectations must be realistic - based on your value and contributions. If you are motivated and dedicated to achieving extraordinary performance, there is no limit to what you can earn.<br /><br />Don Straits, CEO and Dragon Slayer, Corporate Warriors.com Don is a nationwide authority on contemporary job search strategies. His organization provides world-class outplacement and individual marketing services to senior-level executives. Corporate Warriors has earned industry acclaim for its world-class multimedia resume portfolios. Don can be contacted at don@corporatewarriors.com. Web site: <a href="http://www.corporatewarriors.com/">www.corporatewarriors.com</a>.<br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

Why Won't They Pay Me What I Am Worth?

Why Won't They Pay Me What I Am Worth? by Don Straits, CEO and Dragon Slayer, Corporate Warriors I wish I had a dollar for every time pe...

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To Network or Not to Network?

To Network or Not to Network? In a tight market there's no question about it! by Jo Miller<br /><br /><br />After 18 years experience in financial services I now found myself out of work. While I know the importance of networking, I feel I am more comfortable in a group setting. Where do I find such groups or contacts in Chicago.<br /><br />Great networking opportunities come about when people are gathered for a common purpose and genuinely enjoy each others' company. While Chicago has plenty of job search clubs and networking groups for financial services professionals, try simply doing something you enjoy. Look not for WHAT a group is about, but WHO it is about.<br /><br />For example - if you would enjoy learning more about public speaking, try Toastmasters. Their clubs have a friendly, supportive atmosphere. Or if you love to exercise, find a running club. Joining a group where you are free to be yourself brings out your best. You'll make real friends faster and feel much more comfortable telling them about your job search.<br /><br /><br />I am ready for a career change. One of the ideas I have been strongly considering is a career in sales, but I can not decide which field to enter. How can I choose which is most beneficial to me?<br /><br />What do you love to do? Do you love computer games, reading, beauty products- or what? Create a long list of all things you love to do, then do some research on products and services that relate to each area. Your success will be greatly enhanced by selling a product you believe in. For example if you love outdoor activities, could you sell adventure tours? If you are able to explain a product clearly and confidently, and feel comfortable asking for people's business, selling will come naturally to you.<br /><br /><br />Is this a good time to change careers?<br /><br />Quite frankly, no. Starting salaries are low and entry level positions are hard to find.<br /><br />You may need to learn to love or at least appreciate your current career for a little longer before you kiss it goodbye. Any career change should involve extensive planning and preparation before you get started, and there's never a bad time to plan and prepare. Your first step is to narrow the focus on your new career to the point where you are completely clear on the type of job and company you want to be in. Then research any training or schooling required (now is a great time to take a course or learn a new skill). Next, revise your resume and practice your interviewing skills. Finally, start searching for job openings, contacts and networking. You will be ready just in time for the job market recovery that will inevitably come.<br /><br />Life Coach Jo Miller is based in Silicon Valley and works with professionals, business owners and executives. Jo says, "I help people take their dreams and give them deadlines." Visit http://www.resultslifecoaching.com.au/find/jo_miller.html to see testimonials or book a free trial coaching session with Jo.<br /><br /><br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

To Network or Not to Network?

To Network or Not to Network? In a tight market there's no question about it! by Jo Miller After 18 years experience in financial servic...

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Cover Letter Dos and Don'ts

Cover Letter Dos and Don'ts by Kate Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com<br /><br />Most people are familiar with the importance of a well-constructed resume, and put a fair amount of time into creating one. But just as important is the cover letter that accompanies and introduces your resume.<br /><br />In an extremely competitive job market, neglecting your cover letter is a big mistake. Why? A cover letter is your first opportunity to tell a prospective employer about yourself, and to do so in your own words. Like a written interview, a cover letter gives you the opportunity to point out applicable experience and qualities that make you right for the job. And just like any other important job searching tool, there are definite dos and don'ts to follow to make sure your cover letter is an asset, not a hindrance.<br /><br />Do personalize your letter.<br />Nobody likes to receive impersonal mail. Cover letters that begin with phrases like "To Whom it May Concern," sound like random junk or bulk mail, rather than an important correspondence. You expect the company to take the time to read through your material, so you too need to take some time to research the correct addressee. Call the company, look on its Web site or talk to others to find the correct contact.<br /><br />Don't send a generic cover letter to many different companies.<br />Hiring managers can spot a mass mailing a mile away. What gets their attention are letters that address the company -- and its needs -- specifically. Research the company prior to writing the letter. Check out recent news and read through the company's Web site, and then incorporate what you learned into your letter. Doing so will demonstrate to employers that you are informed, motivated and willing to go the extra mile.<br /><br />Do address the specific position advertised.<br />Companies that post openings are making your life easier by telling you the qualities they are seeking. Show the company that you paid attention. If a company advertises that it is looking for sales experience, make sure you address your sales experience. One way to do this is by making a table for yourself before writing your letter. List the company's stated needs in one column, and your corresponding experience and qualifications in another column. You can then use that information to write a letter that tells them exactly what they want to know.<br /><br />Don't make the reader work too hard to see that you are right for the position.<br />Include specific examples about your past successes and experience. If you are looking for a marketing position, give the reader detailed information about a marketing campaign you successfully executed. Don't just tell the reader that you are motivated. Give an example that shows your motivation. You need to lay all of your pertinent information out in a way that lets the person making the hiring decision easily see how your experience and qualities fit the company's needs.<br /><br />Do get to the point.<br />Hiring managers receive letters and resumes from dozens and even hundreds of applicants, and often just don't have the time to read lengthy, wordy letters. Be direct. In the first paragraph, include the title of the position you are interested in and then move on to your specific qualifications immediately.<br /><br />Don't end your letter passively.<br />Nobody gets a job by sitting at home waiting for the phone to ring. Similarly, not many people get a call once a resume or cover letter is sent. Since you are the one looking for work, you need to take the initiative and follow up. Instead of ending the letter with "I look forward to hearing from you," close with "I will call you next week to discuss a time for us to meet." Once you've included this call to action, however, make sure you follow your own promise.<br /><br />Do write and edit your letter with great care.<br />Nothing says "I don't really want this job" like a cover letter with typos, incorrect information, or spelling errors. Make sure the company's name is spelled correctly. Check to see if the contact is a male or female. And, while it sounds almost too obvious to mention, be sure to sign your letter. Careless -- and easily correctable -- mistakes tell the company that you did not take this simple task seriously.<br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

Cover Letter Dos and Don'ts

Cover Letter Dos and Don'ts by Kate Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com Most people are familiar with the importance of a well-constructed resume,...

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Cover Letters Close Gaps in Employment

Cover Letters Close Gaps in Employment by Kate Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com<br /><br />Remember the first day of the new school year? Your first assignment was always writing about what you did over the summer break. This usually involved the activities or camps you participated in, trips you went on, and books you read.<br /><br />Explaining a gap in employment is often like this, only not as easy. After a hiatus, it's not easy re-entering the workforce, and it's even less easy explaining one and landing a job. There are many reasons why individuals have gaps in their employment histories. Whether you have been unemployed for several months, are returning to the workforce after raising children, or took a break to go back to school, reintroducing yourself to potential employers is a lot easier with a strong, well-crafted cover letter.<br /><br />If you are returning to the workforce after a significant absence, it's important to address this fact early in your cover letter. Remember, however, that your employment gap does not define you. Rather, it is your skills, qualifications and experience that will truly make you the right or wrong candidate for the job. The secret is to address your time away from the workforce briefly and succinctly, and then move on to discussing your skills - both old and new - that truly matter.<br /><br />The first thing you should do is research the company and develop a list of expertise and experience matching their mission and culture. Remember that these skills do not always come from a professional environment. Make a list of your accomplishments throughout your career as well as from your time away from work. Include newly acquired skills or others you have strengthened. Perhaps you have taken time off to raise your children - your time management skills may be sharper or have worked on projects through volunteer work. Maybe you have spent time traveling and have learned a new language or improved your negotiation skills. If you think about it, you will probably discover ways to turn personal talents into business skills.<br /><br />Now that you have identified your strengths, it's time to write your letter. Briefly describe the reason for your employment gap, but do not go into great detail. The secret is to present the facts, then move to accentuating the positive aspects of your experience. Here are a couple examples:<br /><br />"My resume shows that I was out of the workforce for two years. I returned to school full-time to pursue an M.B.A. With my new credentials and recent graduate school experience, I have strengthened my business know-how and skills required for this position."<br /><br />"As you can see on the enclosed resume, I have a masters degree in education and more than seven years of teaching experience. While I was on leave from teaching over the past five years to raise my son, I recently began working as a substitute teacher in several local school districts and am anxious to resume a full-time teaching position."<br /><br />"Due to corporate downsizing, I have been out of the financial market for 10 months. However, during that time I have remained active in professional associations and pursued advanced education, completing six hours toward my M.B.A."<br /><br />All of these examples state the facts, but then demonstrate that the individuals were determined enough to educate themselves and remain active in their respective fields. Simplicity is key in keeping your explanation clear and concise.<br /><br />Once you have stated your reasons for being away from the workforce, sell yourself just like you would in any other cover letter. Use the second paragraph in your letter to describe the skills you possess, past positions you held and professional accomplishments, and experience you have gained outside the workforce that relate to the open position. For example, if you held a position in public relations and have continued to hone your writing skills through freelance or volunteer assignments, be sure to highlight this:<br /><br />"I have remained active in the field of media relations, serving as the chairperson of the public relations committee for the Boys and Girls Club. In this role, I successfully promoted many large-scale fundraising events and secured high-profile media coverage that resulted in an overall increase in public donations to the organization."<br /><br />The bottom line is that neither you nor a potential employer should view your time away from the professional workforce as a detriment. The main thing to remember when writing your cover letter is to keep it simple, to the point, and to emphasize your strengths. Keep your tone positive and enthusiastic. If you present your employment history honestly and spend the bulk of your letter outlining your skills and accomplishments, your cover letter can be the first step toward a great new job!<br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

Cover Letters Close Gaps in Employment

Cover Letters Close Gaps in Employment by Kate Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com Remember the first day of the new school year? Your first assignmen...

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Bilingual? You're Valuable

Bilingual? You're Valuable by CareerBuilder.com<br /><br />Spanish has become the country's unofficial second language, and corporate America has responded with diversity initiatives that seek to recruit, understand and attract a Hispanic/Latino workforce, writes Graciela Kenig in her book Best Careers for Bilingual Latinos.<br /><br />With more than 40 million Hispanics in the US today and an estimated annual growth rate of 4.65, the Latino community will add 1.7 million people to its population every year. This trend is creating a tremendous demand for bilingual job seekers fluent in Spanish and English.<br /><br />According to Kenig and other experts, the top industries for bilingual candidates include healthcare, financial services, sales and marketing, social services and public service. The Bureau of Labor Statistics, reports that there are a number of emerging occupations in social services such as cross-cultural counselors, bilingual teachers and consumer credit counselors.<br /><br />"Being fluent in Spanish is a big plus in social services," says Evie Engler, vice president for Metropolitan Family Services in Chicago, Ill. "In many of the communities we serve, our licensed clinical social workers, case workers and counselors must be bilingual to serve families in need of our counseling, mental health and financial management services."<br /><br />Banks and mortgage companies seek tellers and loan officers who can converse with their Latino clients. Insurance companies need claims adjustors and administrative staff to assist in processing claims for their diverse client base. One major insurance company that pays referral fees to employees for candidates who are hired offered an additional $500 incentive if the new hire was bilingual.<br /><br />Hospitals and pharmaceutical companies are experiencing some of the greatest demand for bilingual employees to better serve patients. "Being able to speak and understand our patients? native language ensures proper treatment. Patients must be able to understand medical instructions and prescription dosages and physicians need to understand symptoms and circumstances related to a patient?s condition," noted Kathy, a nurse at a suburban hospital in Chicago.<br /><br />To sell goods and services to a multicultural market, corporations must hire people who understand the language and culture of their clients and their vendors. Karen, an inside sales manager in Columbia, Md., needed call center associates to process orders for paint testing equipment from business clients in Latin America. "Finding candidates who were fluent in Spanish and also had strong sales ability were two key criteria in reviewing resumes and deciding who I would interview."<br /><br />In nearly every field and profession, from financial services to sales, there is a growing need to multi-lingual candidates. In addition to Spanish, companies that have offices and clients throughout the world seek employees who can speak languages from Russian to German, French and Mandarin. "Job seekers who speak Japanese, Chinese and Mandarin are becoming a hot commodity among employers, particularly on the West Coast," says one recruiter from California.<br /><br />Not only are bilingual skills helpful for seasoned professionals in the job market, graduates who are fluent in a second language are finding that they have an extra edge during job interviews. While bilingual skills aren't always required to land good jobs, many companies prefer to hire candidates with this added dimension.<br /><br />If you are truly bilingual, that is you can speak two or more languages with equal or near equal fluency and are able to speak and perhaps also read and write more than one language very well, tell employers up-front that you have this ability. Even if your prospective employer may not have an immediate need for your multiple language capabilities, they are likely to see your fluency as an added benefit and asset in the hiring process.<br /><br />Consider including this information in your cover letter and in your resume?s career or skills summary. Refer to your skills as "bilingual," or "multilingual" if you speak three or more languages. Then, list each language, including English. Be honest though. If you just had a couple of semesters of a language in high school or college, use the phrase "knowledge of..." Never overstate or understate your expertise.<br /><br />It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!)

Bilingual? You're Valuable

Bilingual? You're Valuable by CareerBuilder.com Spanish has become the country's unofficial second language, and corporate America h...

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Is Empathy Helping or Hurting Your Career?

<a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/bt/ar5d65k69x7632w7n6bt.gif"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/bt/ar5d65k69x7632w7n6bt.gif" style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><br /><div>Is Empathy Helping or Hurting Your Career? by Judith Orloff, M.D., adapted from "Emotional Freedom"<br /><br />When President Barack Obama announced he was looking for a Supreme Court nominee who demonstrated empathy, it triggered a national conversation about empathy -- and whether it's a pro or con for a justice of the highest U.S. court.<br /><br />How about in the workplace? Is empathy an asset -- or does it make you appear weak, indecisive and vulnerable?<br /><br />In the workplace, empathy has both an upside and a downside. People who are extremely empathetic and sensitive need to be aware of both.<br /><br />Am I an empath?<br /><br />Take this self-assessment test from "Emotional Freedom" to see if you are a super-empathetic person. Answer yes or no to each question:<br /><br />1. Have I been labeled by co-workers as "too emotional" or overly sensitive?<br /><br />2. If a co-worker is distraught, does it affect my mood at work?<br /><br />3. Are my feelings easily hurt when a supervisor or peer delivers negative feedback?<br /><br />4. Am I emotionally drained when I have to work closely with others, and do I require time alone to revive?<br /><br />5. Do my nerves get frayed by office noise, machine noise, smells or excessive talking?<br /><br />6. Do I prefer working quietly and off by myself?<br /><br />7. Do I overeat or need a happy-hour cocktail to deal with work-related stress?<br /><br />If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you're at least part empath. Responding "yes" to more than three indicates that you're quite sensitive and empathetic.<br /><br />The empath's upside at work<br /><br />You are big-hearted, and big-hearted people are gifted helpers and mentors. Empaths are patient, kind and compassionate -- just what you need as a manager, trainer or team leader.<br /><br />You are passionate, and passionate people put their all into projects. Empathetic people are passionate about their beliefs and ideas. In creative roles, or as sales or marketing people, passion is a plus.<br /><br />You are intuitive, and intuitive people can read between the lines. Empaths often perceive gray areas in a discussion or sense unspoken tension in meetings. Their ability to read others' feelings is a critical skill in negotiating and personnel management.<br /><br />You are an emotionally responsive person, and that means you are a great communicator. Listening is an essential business skill, and those who are best at it are emotional empaths who have a well-developed ability to relate to others, and then interpret or build on what they see and hear.<br /><br />You are "in touch" with your emotions, which means others can connect well with you. We most admire and best relate to people who are authentic. In other words, they show their emotions. In the business world, being "real" helps you build networks, earn the loyalty of others, win clients and forge alliances.<br /><br />The empath's downside at work<br /><br />You're an emotional sponge. Super-empathetic people tend to pick up on others' emotions. This can be detrimental when a cool-headed leader is needed, or when an objective perspective would yield a clearer decision.<br /><br />You're prone to anxiety, depression and fatigue. If you're always tuned in to co-workers' feelings, it's difficult to keep your nerves from getting frazzled. You need to be able to process emotions coming at you from all directions.<br /><br />You may find it hard to work well with others. Empaths often need to work alone, and they seek solitude in order to regain their calm. Others may see you as anti-social.<br /><br />You may be a victim of emotional vampires. Emotional vampires are people who suck the energy right out of you and leave you feeling drained and depleted. They may do this by being needy, talkative or cruel or by running right over you. There are lots of different types of emotional vampires -- and they're naturally drawn to empaths like you.<br /><br />If you are a super-sensitive and empathetic person, be aware of the ways this wonderful trait serves you in the workplace. But be extra careful to protect your emotional and physical health, because empathetic people are, by definition, more vulnerable and open than their peers.<br /><br />Judith Orloff, M.D., is an assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA. This article was adapted from her new book, "Emotional Freedom: Liberate Yourself from Negative Emotions and Transform Your Life." </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>It doesn't hurt to look! <a href="http://www.mygvbiz.com/getrich">www.mygvbiz.com/getrich</a> Become an Independent Distributor Today!You can learn more by calling: 712-432-0211 Enter Pin 429281# Hear a recorded message or...Call in to a LIVE CONFERENCE CALL: 212-796-1700 Enter Pin 2120# (11AM or 3PM or 9:30PM Central Time 7 DAYS A WEEK!) </div>

Is Empathy Helping or Hurting Your Career?

Is Empathy Helping or Hurting Your Career? by Judith Orloff, M.D., adapted from "Emotional Freedom" When President Barack Obama an...

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