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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25 Ways to Sabotage Your Job Search

25 Ways to Sabotage Your Job Search by Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer<br /><br />You know the friend who constantly dates the wrong kind of person? The one who's endlessly frustrated that he or she is going to die alone because all the good ones are taken?<br /><br />After enough venting sessions, you realize something your friend doesn't: He or she is the common thread tying together all of these -- let's just say it together -- losers. Someone needs to speak up and say, "You're doing this to yourself."<br /><br />You'll find this same pattern can be true in a job hunt. Granted, we're in tough times and plenty of reasons out of your control can keep you from getting hired. But that's just one more reason to do everything within your power to be the best job seeker you can.<br /><br />With that in mind, look over these 25 ways you might be unknowingly sabotaging your job search:<br /><br />1. Assuming you'll never need to look for another job<br />You love your current job and that's great. If you're happy there and see a promising future, I hope you never have to leave. Nevertheless, you should always be prepared for the day you have to move on. Even if the boss loves you, things can change. Buyouts, economic disasters or changes in leadership can affect your employment. Continue to update your résumé while you're employed so that you have an accurate record of your accomplishments.<br /><br />2. Burning bridges<br />We love the scenes in movies where the disgruntled employee finally tells off the boss and storms out of the office, only to live a happy, fulfilling life. In real life, these idols are probably unemployed because they don't have good references, and no employer wants to hire someone with a tarnished reputation.<br /><br />3. Keeping mum on your job search<br />Most people aren't keen on being unemployed, and if you were laid off it's understandable that you don't want to spend all your time talking about it. But you need to network; it's one of the most effective ways to find a job. A friend of a friend of a friend often gets you the interview that lands you the job -- but that won't happen if no one knows you're looking for new career opportunities.<br /><br />4. Looking for "The One"<br />Although you want to conduct a focused job search, you need to keep an open mind. With any luck, you'll land the perfect gig, but sometimes you have to take a job that possesses most of the qualities you want -- not all of them. If the pay is right, the requirements are in line with your experience and the opportunities for promotion are good, then you might have to overlook the fact that you have to wake up 30 minutes earlier than you'd like.<br /><br />5. Not searching at all<br />This mistake probably seems obvious, but as anyone who's been on a lengthy job hunt can tell you, discouragement is easy to come by. A few weeks or months without a job and enough news segments on layoffs are enough to convince you that no one is hiring. Without question the market's competitive, but if you're not actively looking for work, don't expect it to fall in your lap.<br /><br />6. No cover letter<br />Including a cover letter is an easy way to play it safe during a job hunt. Although not every employer wants one, surveys continually find employers who automatically remove job seekers from consideration if they don't include a cover letter. Why would you give any employer a reason not to hire you?<br /><br />7. A generic cover letter<br />The only thing worse than no cover letter is one that could be sent to any anonymous employer. Starting with "To Whom It May Concern" and filling the page with phrases like "hard working" will signal the reader that you're blindly sending out applications to every job opening you see. Hiring managers are looking for someone who fits their needs, and their needs are different than another employer's. Don't treat them the same.<br /><br />8. Typos<br />If you received a wedding invitation full of misspelled words and poor punctuation, you'd probably wonder why these two people didn't take the time to proofread the page. After all, it's an important event and a lot of people will be reading it. Employers will wonder the same thing about a résumé or cover letter filled with errors.<br /><br />9. All "I" and not enough "you"<br />Your cover letter and résumé are definitely about you, but they're not for you. Employers are interested in you only in the context of what you can do for them. Whenever you reveal information about yourself, use it as proof that you offer something to the company that no one else can.<br /><br />10. Giving bad contact information<br />When hiring managers like what they see on your résumé and cover letter, they're going to look for your contact information. If they see that your e-mail address is BeerFreak80@email.com or that your current work number is the best way to contact you, they're going to think twice before reaching out. The only thing worse is forgetting to include your contact information at all.<br /><br />11. Running late<br />Every boss wants an employee who is dependable and a good representative of the company. Someone who's tardy to an interview is neither.<br /><br />12. Dressing for the wrong job<br />Appearances matter in an interview, and you should dress for what's appropriate in your field. Find out what the dress code is before you show up so you fit in with the company culture. Wearing a suit when you're told jeans are the norm can make you seem stuffy; wearing shorts and sandals when everyone else is wearing suits makes you look oblivious. You're better off erring on the side of too professional than too casual.<br /><br />13. Griping about past employers<br />Keep in mind that you're not guaranteed to be with any company forever. When you talk trash about your last company, your interviewer's thinking, "What are you going to say about me once you leave?"<br /><br />14. Not asking questions<br />One quintessential interview question is, "Do you have any questions for me?" Sitting there silently suggests you're not invested in the job. When you go to a restaurant, you probably have a few questions for the waiter. Shouldn't you be just as curious about a new job?<br /><br />15. Not doing your research<br />Research for a new job involves two important subjects: the position and the company. Find out as much about the position as you can so you can decide if you even want it and so you can position yourself as the best fit for the job.<br /><br />Knowing all you can about the company will help you decide if you like its direction and share its ideals. Plus, when it comes to the all-important "Do you have any questions for us?" portion of the interview (see above), you have plenty of material to cover.<br /><br />16. Thinking the interview starts and ends in a meeting room<br />The formal interview occurs when you shake hands with the interviewer and ends when you leave the room. The full process begins when you're called or e-mailed to come in for an interview and it continues every time you converse with someone at the company. Were you rude to the recruiter or the receptionist? You never know what gets reported to the hiring manager.<br /><br />17. Talking about money too soon<br />As eager as you are to land the job and cash your first paycheck, let the employer mention salary first. Broaching the subject first implies you're more eager about money than about doing a good job.<br /><br />18. Acting cocky<br />You never want to beg for a job, but you should act as if you care about it. If your confidence level spills over into arrogance, you'll guarantee no employer will want to work with you.<br /><br />19. Being so honest you're rude<br />Not every job will turn into a lifelong career, and you might have no intention of staying at the company more than a year or two when you interview. Still, hiring managers don't want to hear that you're taking this job just to pass time until you find a real job that you care about. You don't need to commit yourself to the company for a decade, but don't make yourself sound like a flight risk, either.<br /><br />20. Forgetting your manners<br />Common courtesy can get you far, and in a job hunt you'd like to get as far as possible. After an interview, send a thank-you note (via e-mail or regular mail) to show your gratitude to the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you. This will leave him or her with a good impression of you.<br /><br />21. Stalking the hiring manager<br />If the interviewer gives you a deadline for hearing back from him or her, go ahead and call to see if a decision has been made. Do not call, e-mail and visit every day until you finally get a response -- which will probably be, "You definitely did not get the job."<br /><br />22. Not keeping track of your applications<br />Because a job hunt can be lengthy, you should have a running list of where you've applied and whether or not you've heard back. Although you don't think you'll forget where you applied, after a dozen applications your memory can get fuzzy. Sending multiple applications to the same employer says, "I'm either disorganized or I'm just sending out bulk applications."<br /><br />23. Not learning from mistakes<br />You're bound to make a mistake here and there during an interview. If a question trips you up, think about what went wrong and prepare for it the next time. Don't forget mistakes from your past, either. Look back at jobs you hated and try to avoid landing one of those jobs again.<br /><br />24. Assuming you got the job<br />Don't ever assume you have the job until you actually hear the hiring manager say, "You got the job." Several factors can complicate whether or not you get hired, so don't halt your job search until you receive an offer. Keep searching for work because the deal might fall through at the last minute or you might find an even better job.<br /><br />25. Forgetting the lessons you learned during a job search<br />When your hard work pays off and you do land a job, don't forget all the trials and trouble you went through to get it. Just because you have a paycheck doesn't mean you've looked for your last job. Remember how important it is to maintain a network, keep track of your achievements and have good references. If you do find yourself looking for work again, you'll have a much easier time.<br /><br />Anthony Balderrama is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. He researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.<br /><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!)

25 Ways to Sabotage Your Job Search

25 Ways to Sabotage Your Job Search by Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer You know the friend who constantly dates the wrong kind ...

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Do You Have What It Takes to Change Industries?

Do You Have What It Takes to Change Industries? by Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder.com writer<br /><br />As everyone knows, finding a job is no easy feat, especially in today's business climate. Consequently, many job seekers are finding themselves looking for work outside of their comfort zones in different cities, levels and industries.<br /><br />While making a change across industries can be difficult and sometimes daunting, job seekers are forced to look for work elsewhere as more and more sectors lose jobs each month.<br /><br />"Industries are going away, jobs are going away. I think people are looking at changing industries out of necessity, not choice," says Deborah Brown-Volkman, president of Surpass Your Dreams, a career-coaching company.<br /><br />The trick to changing trades successfully is finding what the marketplace is looking for. Once you know what employers want, then you can look at your own skills to see if it's a match, Brown-Volkman says.<br /><br />"It's your job to tell people why you are a match for a position," she says. "Show them that you not only understand the responsibilities of the position, but how your skills are transferrable. In addition, your background has given you insight that will help you perform that role exceptionally well. They may or may not accept your background, but at least you tried."<br /><br />Want to know how you can identify your transferable skills and change industries successfully? Here are four easy steps to follow:<br /><br />Step one: Do some research<br />Start with an online search for your current or most recent job title and see what comes up. It doesn't matter where they are located (yet), you just want to see what the job market is looking for, Brown-Volkman says.<br /><br />Step two: Make a list<br />Take out a sheet of paper and make a list: On the left hand side, list the requirements for the jobs you want. On the right side, Brown-Volkman suggests you do the following:<br /><br />· If you have done the same tasks in a different industry, write down what you did.<br />If a new job requires project management or sales, for example, and you've managed a project or sold something in the past, write it down. The terminology might be different, but how you went about doing these assignments is the same, regardless of the industry, Brown-Volkman says.<br /><br />· If you've done something similar, write down how it was similar or close to what the employer is looking for.<br />Let's say a prospective employer wants you to run reports, which you've done before, but they want you to use a software program you're unfamiliar with. Research the type of reports the software produces, Brown-Volkman suggests. The software might be different, but the output of the report is probably similar. Write down how.<br /><br />· If you've never done a task, write down in detail how you've overcome not knowing how to do something in the past. This will be how you'll show you can acquire new skills.<br />Maybe a potential job includes selling a product you've never sold before. Write down how you've sold something in the past that you didn't how to initially, Brown-Volkman suggests. Detail how you got up to speed -- it will show your initiative, drive and ability to learn new skills.<br /><br />Step three: Work isn't the only thing that counts<br />Many job seekers are under the impression that because they haven't worked in a specific area, they don't have experience. Brown-Volkman reminds that experience comes from different places like work, hobbies and volunteer efforts. Make another list of your skills, talents and abilities; compare them to the job descriptions you've been looking at. Can something from your life outside of work help you get a job you want?<br /><br />"Everything you have done up to this point in your life is relevant," Brown-Volkman says. "I helped a woman who was in corporate communications get a job in the nonprofit art world because her hobby and passion was art."<br /><br />Step four: Re-write your résumé<br />If you want a job outside of your industry and your résumé is filled with words and initials that only the people in your sector understand, take them off, Brown-Volkman says. Create a new version of your résumé that details what you did, rather than the industry you worked in.<br /><br />Brown-Volkman gives these examples:<br /><br />· "16 years experience in marketing financial services" becomes "16 years marketing experience"<br /><br />· "Worked closely in team approach with department heads in programming, research, marketing, business development and finance," becomes "worked closely in team approach with department heads"<br /><br />· "Conducted market/competitive analysis for the financial analysts and prepared business plans for venture capitalists" becomes "conducted market/competitive analysis and prepared business plans"<br /><br />Get the picture?<br /><br />Finally, Brown-Volkman says that it's true people look to what you've done in the past as an indicator of what you can do in the future; people can write you off quickly if they see that you have not worked in their industry or held the same title before.<br /><br />But, she says, "I would rather have someone wonder what industry you worked for and have to ask you, rather than write you off because they believe that for the three seconds they spent reading your résumé that you are not right for the job."<br /><br />Rachel Zupek is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.<br /><br />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 You Have What It Takes to Change Industries?

Do You Have What It Takes to Change Industries? by Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder.com writer As everyone knows, finding a job is no easy feat, ...

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7 Sticky Résumé Situations -- and How to Overcome Them

7 Sticky Résumé Situations -- and How to Overcome Them by Robert Half International<br /><br />Searching for a job? If so, you have something in common with nearly every other professional in the job market: You've had to put together a résumé. But despite the fact that everyone writes one, preparing this document can be tricky. What's the best way to address an employment gap? If you've held temporary positions in the past, can you list them on your résumé? Should you still include your college GPA, even if you graduated years ago?<br /><br />Following are some tips for addressing these and other sticky résumé situations:<br /><br />1. You have a gap in your work history.<br />If you have a few employment gaps, consider using a résumé format that focuses on your functional skills. Begin with a short summary of your experience at the top of your document. If you're an accountant seeking a management position in the food services industry, your summary might read: "CPA with nine years of financial management reporting experience with an emphasis on the food services industry. Possess five years of supervisory experience managing team of 15 accountants." Follow the summary with a section detailing relevant skills, grouping related ones together into categories such as "software skills" or "supervisory experience." Then briefly list your work history in reverse chronological order.<br /><br />2. You've held a lot of jobs in a short amount of time.<br />Very short, frequent job stints can raise eyebrows. While it may be tempting to omit a few positions, it's better to go with full disclosure. If you have a "legitimate" reason for job hopping -- you've worked for several startups and all have gone bust or are taking temporary work during a shaky economy -- explain it in your cover letter. If not -- you've job hopped looking for higher pay, for instance -- be prepared to endure a little more scrutiny and to explain yourself in the interview.<br /><br />3. You've only worked for one firm.<br />While your long tenure at a company demonstrates loyalty, you also want to make sure you emphasize career growth. List each position you've held at the firm to show forward momentum. You also might have a section highlighting ongoing education and professional development activities.<br /><br />4. You've held several temporary positions but few full-time roles.<br />Fifty-six percent of executives polled by Robert Half said they view a long period of consistent temporary work as comparable to full-time work. You can list temporary positions in reverse chronological order, just as you would full-time ones. If you worked with a staffing service, use the name of the company you worked through as your employer, grouping all of your assignments from that company together. Also, make sure you indicate that the jobs were temporary assignments so hiring managers are clear about the nature of your positions.<br /><br />5. You're a recent college graduate with little experience.<br />Keep in mind that the work history section of your résumé isn't exclusively for paid, full-time work. As long as you're candid about the sort of positions they are, it's perfectly acceptable to list any internships, part-time jobs, volunteer work or other applicable experience you've gained. You might be surprised to find you have more experience than you think.<br /><br />6. You're not sure how to list your GPA.<br />As your work history develops, academic accomplishments carry less weight, so if you've been in the job market for more than a few years, you don't need to include your GPA. Simply list your alma mater and degree earned at the end of your résumé. For recent graduates, however, a high grade point average or degree from a prestigious university should be listed near the top of your résumé.<br /><br />7. Your former employer changed its name.<br />You worked for years for Boxes-R-Us before it was acquired by BoxMania. How do you address the name change on your résumé? The simplest solution is to list the current company name, followed by firm's former name in parenthesis. Putting both names on your résumé ensures that potential employers can locate the appropriate information when verifying your work history and conducting reference checks. If your former employer has gone out of business -- unfortunately, not uncommon in today's economy -- also note that in parenthesis. Just be sure to keep in contact with anyone from the firm whom you hope to use as a professional reference.<br /><br />A thoughtfully constructed résumé that addresses any potential red flags will give you the best chance of reaching the next step in the process -- the interview.<br /><br />Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 360 offices worldwide. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.rhi.com.<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!)

7 Sticky Résumé Situations -- and How to Overcome Them

7 Sticky Résumé Situations -- and How to Overcome Them by Robert Half International Searching for a job? If so, you have something in common...

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Why Should I Hire You? How to give the right answer to doubtful employers

<a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/t6/ar5c61168gblnhys25t6.gif"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/t6/ar5c61168gblnhys25t6.gif" style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><br /><div>Why Should I Hire You? How to give the right answer to doubtful employers by Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer<br /><br />Recently, Stephanie Somogyi Miller was interviewing candidates for an entry-level public relations position at her company, Spread PR, a Miller/Hamilton company. Over the course of 20 candidates, Miller quickly realized -- much to her shock -- that many job seekers were unprepared when she asked them, "Why should I hire you?"<br /><br />"I thought it gave people the opportunity to tell me what they wanted to tell me, versus me asking a million questions," Miller says. Only one candidate was able to give an answer without stumbling. What's worse, Miller couldn't envision any of these applicants having a coherent conversation with a reporter if her one question was causing so much distress.<br /><br />"It is so hard to get a job these days, and I really expected people to be on their game," she says. "I guess it made my job easier though, because when I finally met someone who knew what was up, I hired her on the spot."<br /><br />In today's job market, where many seasoned workers have found themselves out of a job and plenty of young but inexperienced graduates are entering the work force, do you have the right answer to beat out the competition?<br /><br />Here are three common scenarios job seekers find themselves in and how they might handle each one:<br /><br />The employer thinks ... you're not qualified enough.<br /><br />So you ... prove you have other qualifications that will help you in this position.<br /><br />Interior designer and author Jeanette Simpson recommends job seekers draw upon what experience they do have to bolster their case.<br /><br />"Give examples of how you have been a 'second miler' by going above and beyond what was expected by previous employers," she says. "Employers are looking for someone to solve problems and help with their workload. This can often be done by extra effort on [the] part of an employee. Also, point out how quickly you learn and apply knowledge to situations."<br /><br />The employer thinks ... you're overqualified.<br /><br />So you ... prove you're ready for a change.<br /><br />Lisa Mininni, author of "Me, Myself, and Why? The Secrets to Navigating Change," says workers who are classified as overqualified need to explain why they're perfectly happy taking on new roles.<br /><br />"Consider focusing on where you are in your career. If you've historically had supervisory or management responsibilities, you may be in a career cycle where you are more interested in contributing at a different level," Mininni explains. Part of that process is about explaining your professional game plan.<br /><br />"Outline the career cycles and how where you are in your career cycle can add value to the position. Be an interested listener. Observe how the position fits in to the company and watch for signs of confusion, strong interest and agreement. Ask the interviewer what is most important to [him or her] about what needs to be accomplished by the person in that position and align your experiences with their needs," she says.<br /><br />You obviously want the position, otherwise you wouldn't be interviewing for it. You can try to tell the hiring manager that you don't intend to leave the moment a better position comes along, but nothing you can say can prove it. Instead, address any potential issue he or she may have with your experience to build your case.<br /><br />The employer thinks ... you don't have relevant experience.<br /><br />So you ... explain how all experience is relevant.<br /><br />Simpson's tips for workers whose experience is seemingly irrelevant are similar to her advice for seeming unqualified workers: Make your past an asset, not a drawback.<br /><br />"Give specific examples of how your experience is relevant to the job," Simpson explains. "Customer service experience gained while waiting tables is often negated. Waiters deal with all kinds of people and situations while multitasking, working under pressure of short-term deadlines while keeping customers happy."<br /><br />Don't expect employers to connect the dots -- they're busy and have a wealth of candidates from which to choose. Do the work for them. In this economy, plenty of laid-off workers are looking for jobs in new industries, which means you're not the only one experiencing this dilemma. Get an edge over other job seekers by turning your varied experience into proof that you're the right candidate.<br /><br />Of course, if you think your explanations are falling on deaf ears, you can try a succinct approach. Thirty years ago, Sherry Gavanditti was applying at an ad agency and the owner asked her why he should hire her. She didn't fulfill every requirement listed on the job description, but she knew she was a perfect fit.<br /><br />She simply told him, "If you don't hire me, your competition will."<br /><br />She got the job.<br /><br />Anthony Balderrama is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. He researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues. Follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/abalderrama. </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>

Why Should I Hire You? How to give the right answer to doubtful employers

Why Should I Hire You? How to give the right answer to doubtful employers by Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer Recently, Stephani...

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Yikes! 168 pounds!

I weighed myself at the gym this morning. I was 168! I almost died. I haven't seen that number in several months. I was wearing my gym shoes, had drank three cups of coffee and some water, but still, that's absolutely horrible.<br /><br />If you read my post earlier this morning you know what happened. It's too much of a good thing. Eating out.<br /><br />That weight on the scale shocked me into reality. I can't eat out every day or if I do, I have to really gain control. Eat half or less, don't take leftovers back to the room (I have a fridge and microwave), and work out harder.<br /><br />After my little weigh-in freakout I decided I had to go to a spinning class for maximum burn. It was a killer class. In 45 minutes I burned 487 calories. I did weights for 40 minutes for another 200 calories. Total burned this morning was 687 calories.<br /><br />I also haven't been drinking water this week because where I'm working has the women's bathroom on the other side of the security door which means I need an escort to get back in. The men's bathroom is inside security. Totally sexist and annoys the heck out of me. Today I'm going to drink a ton of water and they'll just have to escort me every hour or so.<br /><br />Well, the fight is on. I feel pretty confident now that I know the damage I've done. I can get back on that horse. This time I'll be holding on for dear life.

Yikes! 168 pounds!

I weighed myself at the gym this morning. I was 168! I almost died. I haven't seen that number in several months. I was wearing my gym s...

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Too much of a good thing

I've eaten out five times in the last two days. The food in Tulsa is amazing. According to the guys we're working with, Tulsa is known for it's fine dining. Tulsa? Really? Yes, really.<br /><br />We went to the best Chinese buffet I've ever seen in my life. Baked salmon, huge prawns, in addition to every yummy Chinese dish you can imagine. It was truly incredible. Then there was the Mexican restaurant with Cerviche to die for in a huge martini glass, then the actual dinner of Mahi Mahi with some corn muffin thing from heaven. A sandwich shop with made to order sandwiches that had an out-of-this-world chicken and pesto sandwich (with non-fat mayo of course). Joe's Crab Shack with melt in your mouth crab cakes. The portions at every restaurant were HUGE.<br /><br />Last night I just couldn't do it anymore. I've been eating as healthy as I can, baked or grilled, no sauces if possible, fish and veggies whenever I can, but I'm eating too much. Although we hit the gym Monday and Tuesday, and I'm ready to go again today, I know I'm eating more calories than I'm burning. My coworker and I both agreed to skip dinner last night. We were both tired and still full from our late lunch. One of the guy we're working with tried to get us to go to some incredibly steakhouse last night but we both said thanks, but no.<br /><br />I hope to get through the rest of the week with less eating and more gym time. It's too hot out for any outdoor activity. At 1opm yesterday it was 103 degrees and extremely muggy. Basically unbearable for man or beast.<br /><br />It's 4:30am, time to get ready for the gym then another stressed filled day trying to get our software certified. The fun is wearing off, and I want to go home.<br /><br /><em>Credit Card Fraud Warning: I received a phone call from my husband last night that Bank of America said there was fraud on my credit card. A $1,000 charge at Amigos in Costa Rica.</em><br /><em></em><br /><em>This card has <strong>only</strong> been used for Weight Watchers' monthly pass, automatic withdrawal for the last 17 months. We don't use if for anything else. The Costa Rica charge was made online. Bank of America can't explain how it happened, unless someone hacked into the Weight Watcher database and obtained my card information. </em><br /><em></em><br /><em>Just a warning to double check the charges on the card you're using for Weight Watchers online charges. I'm not saying that's what happened, only that it's a possibility. B of A rejected the charge since I never use that card except for WW and have now canceled my card.</em>

Too much of a good thing

I've eaten out five times in the last two days. The food in Tulsa is amazing. According to the guys we're working with, Tulsa is kno...

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10 Unusual Majors and the Jobs You Can Get With Them

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

10 Unusual Majors and the Jobs You Can Get With Them

10 Unusual Majors and the Jobs You Can Get With Them by Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder writer Here we are again, nearing the end of yet another...

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7 Emerging Jobs

<a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/tk/ar5d7n960n1x0ldn9jtk.gif"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/tk/ar5d7n960n1x0ldn9jtk.gif" style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><br /><div>7 Emerging Jobs by Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder.com writer<br /><br />In today's uncertain job market, even the jobs once marked as "recession-proof" are not as safe as we thought. So where should you focus your job search?<br /><br />Several trends -- existing and emerging -- continue to drive job growth and creation throughout the United States. Developments in technology, health care, environmentalism and globalization, as well as current trends in the economy, are clearing the path for several cutting-edge careers to surface.<br /><br />If you're in the market for a new job, here are seven emerging careers that are making a mark and poised for growth in the coming years. Please note that salary and job growth information is not collected for all positions because of the size and awareness of each job. </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!)<br /><br />1. Home stager<br />The real-estate market is not what it used to be and homes are taking longer to sell. Potential buyers usually decide how much they like a property by picturing their own possessions in the house. That's not always easy if the home is cluttered with unattractive décor and furnishings. House stagers work with real-estate agents and their clients to improve the appearance of a home and make it more appealing for potential buyers.<br />Industry umbrella: Interior design<br />Job growth: N/A<br />Salary: Most stagers are self-employed and set their own fees. Prices may vary from $75 for an initial consultation to $500 for staging an entire house.<br /><br />2. Health informatics technician<br />Each time you go to the doctor, everything about the visit is added to your medical file. As health-care facilities everywhere make the change to electronic medical records, informatics technicians not only transition the files, but they use computer systems to help doctors analyze, diagnose and treat patients based on the information they are given. This computer data also improves care, controls costs and provides documentation for use in legal actions.<br />Industry umbrella: Health care<br />Job growth*: 18 percent<br />Salary**: $31,208<br /><br />3. Simulation developer<br />From entire virtual communities like Second Life to various online demonstration videos, simulations are becoming the way of the world. Be it pilots using in-flight simulators to prepare for high-risk situations; landscape architects using video reproduction to help clients envision proposed ideas and plans; or medical students diagnosing and treating virtual patients without risking a real person's life, simulators are a new way for professionals in all industries to train, practice and prepare for exciting -- and potentially dangerous -- situations before they happen.<br />Industry umbrella: Computer software engineers<br />Job growth: 38 percent, based on industry projections<br />Salary: $58,163<br /><br />4. Green jobs<br />The environmental wave, in addition to President Barack Obama's promise to create 5 million green jobs, is creating jobs in everything from sales to government to nonprofit organizations. Whether it's a company researching how to make green products or a consultant implementing recycling procedures, the "clean-energy economy" is creating several opportunities in sectors including, but not limited to, energy generation, transportation, agriculture, waste and wastewater, and research and advocacy.<br />Industry umbrella: Clean energy and energy efficiency<br />Job growth: Clean-energy jobs outperformed job growth in 38 states and the District of Columbia between 1998 and 2007, the most recent year for which data are available, according to a study by Pew Charitable Trust.<br />Salary: Salaries depend on specific position<br /><br />5. Emergency management<br />Since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, jobs in the anti-terrorism field have grown. The required skills are demanding, but a more attainable (yet still in-demand) career option is emergency planning. Not only do emergency planners prepare and plan for terrorist attacks, they also train and prepare for responses and procedures for other disasters such as fires, floods, hostage situations or pandemics.<br />Industry umbrella: Management, business and financial operations<br />Job growth: 7 to 13 percent<br />Salary: $48,386<br /><br />6. Career counselor<br />Workers need jobs; employers need workers. With the present economy, career counselors are needed more than ever. They offer job seekers career guidance and job-hunting advice, and can help them improve their well-being through their work. Career counselors differ from career coaches in that not only will they help you in terms of your career, they will also seek to improve your overall mental health.<br />Industry umbrella: Human resources<br />Job growth: N/A<br />Salary: $47,074<br /><br />7. Patient advocate<br />Anyone who's ever had health issues knows that the health-care system is not the easiest thing to navigate. That's what patient advocates are there for. As the population continues to age, patient care advocates will become more important to the job market. Advocates ensure that patients are informed, visiting with the right specialists and taking the right medicines. They also educate family members on how to care for their sick relative. Perhaps most importantly, patient advocates will sort through medical bills and negotiate fees with health-care providers and insurance companies.<br />Industry umbrella: Health care<br />Job growth: 24 percent (for medical and public health social workers)<br />Salary: $47,560 (for medical and public health social workers), according to the BLS<br /><br />*Job growth through 2016, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics<br />** US national average salary provided by CBSalary.com, powered by SalaryExpert<br /><br />Rachel Zupek is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues. Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/CBwriterRZ. </div>

7 Emerging Jobs

7 Emerging Jobs by Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder.com writer In today's uncertain job market, even the jobs once marked as "recession-...

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Top 10 Reasons Your Job Search Isn't Working

Top 10 Reasons Your Job Search Isn't Working by Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder.com writer<br /><br />You don't get it: You've scoured the Internet for jobs. You've blanketed the market with your résumé. You've sent a basic cover letter with every application. Why isn't anything happening?<br /><br />While simply submitting your application materials and waiting for an opportunity to fall in your lap might have been enough to land a job at one point in time, the frustrating reality of today's job market makes that type of job search impossible. Instead, today's job seekers must go above and beyond if they want to stand a chance at landing a great opportunity.<br /><br />Competing for work is a process that requires full engagement but generates significant momentum, says Jim Villwock, author of "Whacked Again! Secrets to Getting Back on the Executive Saddle." But, many job seekers get distracted in their searches and get frustrated when they don't see results right away.<br /><br />"Initially, it is overconfidence that the process will be easy and [that] time should be carved out for family, sports and other activities that were neglected when working. The opposite is true. Getting a job is usually more work than being employed," Villwock says. "The core mistake is not procrastination, not working on a résumé or not going to a networking meeting. It is not knowing the process and working the plan to get the job that you deserve."<br /><br />Here are 10 reasons your job search might not be succeeding:<br /><br />1. You aren't networking<br /><br />No one can help you find a job if you they don't know you need it. Your friends, family and previous employers all know someone who knows someone, so utilize their knowledge and connections as you look for work.<br /><br />Additionally, make yourself (and your job search) visible on social and professional networking sites like BrightFuse, Facebook or LinkedIn. According to a survey by Robert Half International, 62 percent of executives think professional networking sites will be useful while searching for candidates in the next few years. Thirty-five percent of respondents said they would use social networking sites as a recruitment resource.<br /><br />2. You're skipping the cover letter online<br /><br />For some reason, people can't get used to the idea of how to submit a cover letter online, so they just skip the step altogether. Wrong move, people. Your cover letter is your chance to make a good first impression or address any inconsistencies on your résumé. When sending your application via e-mail, your cover letter serves as the body of the e-mail and your résumé is attached.<br /><br />3. Your cover letter is generic<br /><br />Now that we know you have to send a cover letter, the next step is making sure that it's not generic. You need to tailor each letter to a specific job and person, while clearly identifying the aspects of your background that meet the employer's needs, says Ane Powers, managing partner at The White Hawk Group, a career management firm.<br /><br />"Your cover letter is your ticket to the interview. The ticket is voided and placed in the 'thanks, but no thanks' pile if it doesn't scream 'I am a perfect fit for this position,'" she says.<br /><br />4. You're procrastinating<br /><br />Oftentimes, when we don't see the results we want, we get frustrated and worried. After applying to so many jobs without hearing anything, you just don't have the energy to update your résumé, write a targeted cover letter or follow up with a hiring manager, so you put it off until tomorrow, then the next day and the next day. But why put off tomorrow what can be done today? Your dream job is not going to fall from the sky, so continue to endure and be proactive in your search.<br /><br />5. You're only searching for jobs on the Internet<br /><br />While job boards and company Web sites are a great starting place to find a job, the majority of open positions are never advertised, Powers says. Communicate with people who can help you: human resource managers, recruiters and successful professionals will all be key in discovering new opportunities.<br /><br />6. You're not doing your research<br /><br />This might be the most basic piece of job advice out there, yet some people still choose not to follow it. Executives polled by RHI said 25 percent of candidates didn't have any knowledge of the company or industry to which they're applying.<br /><br />Things change every day in business, especially in today's market. It's important to know of any changes going on at the company where you're applying. If you are applying for work in a new industry, do some research to prove that you can be a valuable addition to that field.<br /><br />7. You're blanketing the market with your résumé<br /><br />"Attractive candidates demonstrate strategic marketing. Blanketing the market with your résumé demonstrates desperation and lack of strategic thinking," Powers says. Don't send résumés to every single job opening out there. Identify the organizations that meet your requirements and go from there.<br /><br />8. You're not following up<br /><br />Too many job seekers assume that if they haven't heard back from an employer, it's because they've been shot down for the position. While that may be true, there is also every possibility that your résumé never made it to its final destination or it got lost in the flood of submissions. Eighty-two percent of executives say candidates should contact hiring managers via e-mail, phone or personalized letter within two weeks of submitting their résumés, according to RHI. Just contact the hiring manager to say that you wanted to confirm your application was received and ask if there is anything else they need from you.<br /><br />9. You have too many distractions<br /><br />Try to focus on only your job search for a couple hours each day -- don't check your personal e-mail, make phone calls or surf the Internet (unless it's for jobs).<br /><br />"Conducting a job campaign is a full-time job. As with any job, to achieve results, one needs to set goals and develop an action plan to achieve the goals," Powers says.<br /><br />10. You don't ask for the job<br /><br />Many candidates are shy about being to outspoken or upfront about their desire for the job, but many hiring managers will be impressed with your candor.<br /><br />"Employers are looking for candidates who are excited about the position," Powers says. Be forward and ask for the position by telling the interviewer why it is a good fit for you and the organization.<br /><br />Rachel Zupek is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.<br /><br />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!)

Top 10 Reasons Your Job Search Isn't Working

Top 10 Reasons Your Job Search Isn't Working by Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder.com writer You don't get it: You've scoured the Inte...

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