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Selasa, 31 Agustus 2010

AARP Names Best Employers for Workers Over 50

by Tom Musbach, Yahoo! HotJobs


A leading advocacy group for older Americans has placed packaged goods company SC Johnson at the top of its 2007 list of 50 best employers for people over 50.

The AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) began the annual list seven years ago in recognition that more people than ever before are working into their 60s and beyond. The group honors companies that support an aging workforce by providing flexible work schedules, health insurance options, and other benefits to retain and attract baby-boomer candidates.

"It is important that more employers -- both large and small -- recognize what tremendous assets 50 and over employees represent because of their experience and motivation," said AARP CEO Bill Novelli in announcing this year's winners.

The Honor Roll

The employers honored by the AARP in 2007 include Mercy Health System of Janesville, Wis.; Principal Financial Group in Des Moines, Iowa; West Virginia University Hospitals; Volkswagen of America Inc. in Auburn Hills, Mich.; John Deere of Moline, Ill.; and George Mason University in Fairfax, Va. (The complete list is available at AARP.org.)

SC Johnson, based in Racine, Wis. and known for brands like Shout and Windex, topped the list for its onsite medical center and wellness, fitness, and education programs. The AARP also saluted the company's comprehensive financial benefits and retirement planning tools for employees.

Health care and education were the most visible industries on the AARP list in 2007, which was similar to 2006. More than 110 companies participated in a comprehensive application process to be considered for the honor.

No Short Cuts

Roberta Chinsky Matuson, principal with Human Resource Solutions based in Massachusetts, cautioned that lists like the AARP's are only one type of resource that job-seekers over 50 should consult.

"Job seekers should keep in mind that many organizations have large public-relations departments that help their companies make it onto these lists," she said. "There are many great companies that never even apply."

She added that baby-boomer candidates should do their own research on companies and consult with friends and others in their network to get a sense if an employer is supportive of mature workers.

What Boomers Want

"Many workers over 50 have expressed interest in jobs to help improve the quality of life in their communities, jobs that connect them to their passion in life, a purpose bigger than themselves, and other people," said Stefanie Weiss, spokeswoman for Civic Ventures, a think tank devoted to boomers and their contributions to work and society.

Monique A. Dearth, president of Incite Strategies, an Atlanta-based human resources consulting firm, agrees that many employees over 50 have different priorities on the job.

"They are experienced employees who generally aren't looking to develop a high profile career," she said, "but rather want to leverage their past experience, feel valued in the organization, and contribute at a meaningful level."


Job Info , Career Sources , Employment

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Stop the Gossip, Save Your Career

by Heather Boerner, for Yahoo! HotJobs


Getting ahead at work may hinge on resisting the urge to spread the latest news about your coworkers.

"You may think gossip is harmless, but you might just be shooting yourself in the foot as far as your credibility goes," said Rachel Weingarten, author of "Career and Corporate Cool: How to Look, Dress and Act the Part at Every Stage of Your Career." She continues, "Let your work speak for itself. You don't need to be the one making yourself look better by talking down someone else."

Consider the Damage

Sure, gossip can be almost too enticing to keep to ignore -- but consider these consequences:
You lose your reputation. "My reputation is my business," said Weingarten. "If someone says something bad about me, or I become known as a gossip, that could affect my entire career."
Coworkers avoid you. "If people view you as a gossip, they may stop sharing information with you," said April Callis, president of Gossip Stoppers, a program designed to create positive workplaces. "Then instead of being the one with all the power and information, you're out of the loop because no one trusts you."
Your work suffers. The negativity spread by gossip makes people hate their jobs. "They miss work, they get less done while they're there, and they feel unappreciated," says Callis. Suddenly, you're not giving your best, and your boss may notice.

There's a better way to deal with water cooler talk. First, and perhaps most obvious: Keep the information to yourself.

It's one thing to learn the office scoop -- it's another to share it. Even asking someone else at work to verify what you've just heard counts as gossip, said Callis. If it's something criminal, tell your boss. If not, let it drop.

Resist the Urge

Next, teach your coworkers not to gossip with you. Use these techniques:
  • Replace gossip. Sometimes gossip is the only thing you have in common with coworkers, said Weingarten. So find something to replace it. Do you both knit? Are you both sports fans? If you must gossip, do it about movie stars or soap operas, she said. Just leave the office out of it.
  • Set a timer. If a coworker or employee comes to you determined to gossip, set a timer for five minutes, and let the person spew. When the time's up, so is the gossip. You don't have to respond, said Callis. You can just listen.
  • Write it down. When a coworker runs to your desk with the latest juicy gossip, get out a pad and pen. Writing down the facts serves two purposes: It shows the gossip that everything she says is being documented. And it helps you focus on facts instead of feelings.

What you may find is that you and those around you feel happier as they gossip less, says Callis.

"When I walk into a positive workplace, people are engaged and they feel valued," she says. "They stay."



Job Info , Jobs Sources , Career Opportunity

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Jobs on Oil Rigs For Women - The Truth About the Rig Industry

Traditionally a male dominated industry, jobs on oil rigs are becoming increasingly popular with women looking to further their chosen career or just keen to get a job offshore that offers amazing pay and some pretty impressive holiday benefits.

There is no doubt that rigs are difficult places to work whatever your sex. Extreme conditions and dangerous, difficult, physically demanding jobs make life on the rigs a challenge. Despite their increasing popularity, women are still a minority in where jobs on oil rigs are concerned. A rig of 200 might expect to see 3-5 women crew members.

What jobs are suitable?

Well, the simple answer is that depends on your physique. If you're used to lifting 100kg blocks all day, fine with heights, willing to put your fingers (and your life) at risk everyday then every job is suitable. However, if that's not you, firecrews and first aiders are an excellent jobs on oil rigs for women.

What can I expect as a woman on the rigs?

1. Rightly, there will be no exceptions made for the fact that you're female. That means you'll work as hard as the men, some women say that they work harder to try and prove themselves and this isn't uncommon.

2. Expect some sexism. This is a generalisation but it's bound to be present with such a massive percentage of men to women. You'll need to be tough and stand your ground and prove yourself.

3. Expect some attention. Rig workers are on the rigs for long periods at a time with no other female company. You'll be likely to get a lot of attention so you'll need to be able to carry yourself and take the stick you'll get on the chin. Thick skin is a great attribute.

Go prepared, get as much information as possible, and keep smiling and your time on the rigs could become an amazing career. Make sure you speak to the experts for assistance on getting the job you deserve fast.


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Becoming a Paramedic

In several occasions in life there are medical situations that need special and immediate attention and treatments. This brings us to the term Paramedic.

A paramedic is an emergency medical technician specialist that specializes in attending to urgent medical cases, such as shock and offer care to patients in hospitals. They work mainly in urgent cases; they also work as ambulance crew members when it is required. They make sure a person's state of health is under control and stabilized before getting to the health center or hospital.

A person in this field is not only trained to attend to urgent cases, they also specialize in cases like cardiac monitoring, intravenous therapy, defibrillation and drug administration.

Their services are required in so many hospitals, which makes a paramedic work in several environments such as working on an emergency health care group, caring for patients in critical conditions, transferring them from one hospital to another when the need arises, they also work in secluded areas where they are often the main care giver, they are very important to the society especially in some natural disasters that occur such as floods, tornadoes etc. They are always the first to appear on the scene to rescue and help the victims.

They don't operate alone; they work under a physician whether on off or online control and through direct contact, cell phone or face to face talk. They work legally through the license of medical doctors and receive directions in terms of decisions relating to clinical through written procedure by physician.

Course Overviews

Online college degree paramedic courses are known to have flexible study schedules and also efficiently treat or handle essential information which students need to get used to if they must handle emergencies relating to medical services. Some of the important courses offered in these online colleges degree programs include but not limited to the following:

Medical Terms

Beginners in this field must know the right name for every disease, medications and parts of the body to enable them know the right treatment to give. It is also very necessary to learn pronunciation and spellings in order to have an ease communication with the nurses, doctors, and other medical professionals.

First Aid and CPR

Learners should learn to give basic life support through the CPR and first aid method. This course is very important, and it involves online lectures to get more facts and medical directions. At the end of this course certificates are issued.

Cardiology

Beginners in this online college degree programs learn the useful aspects of anatomy and physiology. They also study the methods and treatments of cardiovascular problems.


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How to Succeed As a Bodyguard

Even though some countries and cities may report a decline in the level of crime dogging their jurisdiction, the truth is that crime is a reality that society and individuals must find ways to deal with. When it comes to personal protection, different persons have different needs depending on a number of factors such as status in society. This is where the role of bodyguards, also known as executive protection specialists, comes in. Indeed, the need for bodyguards has seen a rapid increase in line with the growing threat to personal safety presented by terrorism, crime and unpredictable stalkers.

In addition, prominent persons such as politicians, business persons, top level corporate executives and celebrities rely on the services of bodyguards to help them avoid pesky paparazzi and ensure they enjoy their privacy. Due to their high risk work environment and the high demand for their services, bodyguards are relatively well compensated.

But being an executive protection specialist takes hard work and dedication if one is to effectively execute their role. Bodyguards must be physically fit and in near perfect health. This will provide a good foundation for them to protect their client. Looking at the circle of persons their clients will frequently be in contact with, a specialist must also have great oral and written communication skills.

Moreover, bodyguards will come across different types of people during the course of duty and they must have good interpersonal skills while taking care not to compromise their client's safety. Today's bodyguards must make use of both brain and brawn. Apart from physically confronting and repelling threats against their client, bodyguards will sometimes be called upon to negotiate with the aggressor in order to avoid the threat from materializing into injury or fatality.

Bodyguards should also be observant and highly aware of their surroundings. In fact, a bodyguard must, where possible take the initiative of familiarizing themselves with an area prior to their client's arrival. This will help them to better make practical evacuation plans as well as take appropriate action when confronted with danger. For instance, they will be better positioned to identify which is the quickest escape route depending on what area of the compound or building the client is located at the time.

A bodyguard must be prepared to spend a lot of their time in solitude. The role of the bodyguard will often not require them to be in constant communication with their employer or the people around. Many times, a bodyguard will have to sit alone in a car or a room.

The modern day executive protection specialist must be prepared to apply for and attend certificate programs that will equip him or her with the required skills. The certificate programs usually run for a few months. One can go further and pursue a bachelors degree or an associate degree in law enforcement and criminal justice. Associate degrees take 2 years while the bachelor's degree goes for 4 years.

This is a great career for the right individual. If this is you, then by all means do more research on it. You can start by visiting websites that go into more detail on the bodyguard career.


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Jobs in Kenya - Why Kenya's Best Brains Do Not Take Them

There is no doubt that Kenya has the best human resource capital in the region if not in the continent altogether. It is now almost certain that thousands of graduates will be churned out of our public and private Universities in any one week. However, the best jobs in Kenya are not being filled by Kenyans and this should be cause for alarm or human resource professionals and experts.

It appears that the country has no doubt very good brains that could help solve the myriad of problems bedeviling the economic, political and social spheres of our lives. However, many bright youngsters would rather take up job offers abroad than in the country.

The first reason of course has to be the salary issue. Many jobs offer such low salaries that workers have to keep on moonlighting in order to sustain their livelihoods. This seriously curtails their productivity in the workplace and leads to an overall poor performance.

Secondly, it is very hard to secure a job using a fairly straight means. This means that the best brains are put off as they would have to bribe there way up the corporate ladder. They would also need to come from the same tribe if not family of the owners of the company and this seriously impedes their professionalism.

The other problem is that the working conditions and the opportunities for professional and career progression are simply aren't there. Many people think that our best and brightest choose to take overseas jobs mainly for money but this is not true. Provide the best working conditions, and you would see these brains trooping back. I'm reminded of a Kenyan engineering graduate who came back with a couple of firsts from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and on getting a job at a parastatal, he was given golf tickets to a country club by his boss who explained that the tickets would help him more than staying at the office. Well, he packed up his bags, returned to Chicago as Vice President of a multinational engineering company where he earns astronomical salary. Do you think he will ever return home again?



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Job Interviews: How to Answer "Problem" Questions

One of the most common job interview questions is, "What is the toughest problem you've had to face, and how did you overcome it?" Here's how to give a winning answer.
First, realize that this popular interview question provides you with an excellent opportunity to shine. Everyone wants to hire people who are good at solving problems. Think of a good example concerning a problem that faced your company and not just you personally. The bigger the problem, the better.
Give specific examples of the skills and techniques you used to resolve this problem. Emphasize the successful results.
Be generous in sharing credit if it was a team effort, but be sure to highlight your specific role.
Sample Answer:
"When I assumed the role of Chief Dog Groomer at Mutts R Us, team morale was low, sales were lackluster and customers were dissatisfied. I immediately took action to identify the specific problems, analyze alternative solutions and pick the best options, and set a timeline for implementing the corrective actions. I reorganized the team structure and established written goals that focused on teamwork, improved customer service and increased productivity. One specific example is that I implemented a 'satisfaction guarantee' for quality and timeliness with each grooming service, and tied in performance-based rewards for employees. These actions greatly improved morale and increased our sales by 48% in the first three months."
Here's another interview question that is very similar...
"Describe a situation where you used your own initiative to solve a problem."
It's unlikely that you'll be asked both, but have two different problem-solving examples ready just in case, with one emphasizing initiative.
Sample Answer:
"I once received a last-minute request from the General Manager to prepare a letter to residents of a neighborhood that was undergoing emergency sewer repairs by our agency. My boss was on vacation, but she had asked that I attend an off-site meeting that same afternoon. There was no way I would be able to get the letter done and also attend the meeting. I decided, of course, that the General Manager's request took priority. But the off-site meeting was on a very important topic and I knew my boss was relying on me to attend. So I immediately called the chairperson of that meeting and made arrangements to participate via speakerphone. By eliminating the 45-minute travel time, I was able to complete the GM's letter and still participate in the off-site meeting."
Preparing for these types of questions in advance is very important. It'll get you thinking about your specific accomplishments. Even if these particular questions are not asked, you'll probably be able to use versions of your prepared answers in response to other questions.
For any job interview: anticipate likely questions, prepare answers that are specific (and as relevant to the position as possible), and practice, practice, practice!

Bonnie Lowe


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10 Popular Interview Questions - What's the Hidden Meaning?

Interview Preparation is essential if you want to be offered the job but many organisations start an interview with popular interview questions which seem easy to answer. However some of the most innocent popular interview questions can get a candidate to relax and 'open up' revealing personal information about themselves which they should not have shared. In an interview there's no such thing as an innocent interview question even if you're asked it by an assistant on the way to or from the interview room! Depending on the organisation, the ten popular interview questionsbelow might be asked in a slightly different way but the motivation behind the questions is the same. Interview preparation will ensure that you always have a good interview answer to hand.

Q1. What have you been up to since you left your job?

Saying, 'I've had a chance to catch up on all the chores to do around the house' is not a good interview answer. An organisation wants to employ people who are energetic, self-motivated, and determined. The longer you have been out of work the more important it is for you to show that you have managed your time well. This might mean volunteering for work where you can use your skills and abilities, attending courses so that you upgrade your skills, and being active in a business or professional network.

Q2. How long have you been looking for a job?

Unfortunately it is true that the longer you are out of work the more difficult it is to be offered a job and you lose interview self-confidence. With this popular interview question the potential employer wants to know whether there something wrong with the candidate that has been out of work for a long time. When there's a chance that you might be 'out of work' for a considerable time it is important to give yourself a deadline and then consider taking a job which might be a contract position, or a job in another area of the country. Even consider a job where you're over qualified. All jobs at every level can be used to promote a candidate so don't feel that taking a job below your qualifications means that this will be held against you in the future. Being seen as a pragmatist and a hard worker will help you to stand out against the competition for a job.

Q3. Why do you want this job?

This is a very popular interview question but saying, 'because you saw the advert is not a good interview answer', even if it's true. It's a buyers market and a potential employer wants to employ a person who is keen and enthusiastic to work with them. If they find a candidate who's genuinely interested in their company then they believe that they're more likely to stay and succeed in the new job. The candidate who prepares for the interview by reading up on the organization and demonstrates an understanding of their strategy, management team and current issues is more likely to capture the interest of the interviewer. Find something specific about the company that complements your own experience and ambitions. It is even more impressive if you've 'gone out of your way' to understand the organization such as talking to other employees or their customers. To interview brilliantly check out these 27 Interview Tips.

Q4. What do you consider to be you greatest achievement?

In an interview, candidates tend to smile and nod a lot. The potential employer is interested in getting to know the 'real' you and whether you're going to fit within the culture and role of their organisation. Asking about your achievements is a popular interview question. The achievement you choose to talk about says a great deal about you and your personality. A good interview answer is to choose an accomplishment that relate to the position you're applying for. If this isn't obvious pick an accomplishment that required some of the same strengths that will be needed for the job. If you're applying for a leadership position in a task goal orientated culture then the interviewer is going to be impressed by someone who is motivated by achieving a project or goal and inspires others around them. In an entrepreneurial organisation a 'creative mind' will be more appreciated. The ability to 'think on one's feet' will be considered critical to a high level of success within their organisation.

Q5. What salary did you earn in your last job?

Companies will frequently find different ways to ask an interview question to determine the candidate's salary requirements. Your last salary is a good way for them to determine whether they can afford you. If the salary the organisation is offering is considerably lower than your previous salary they'll have concerns over whether you will stay in the job. If this is the case, then a good interview answer is to convince them that you are prepared to live on a lower salary and why. Sometimes, companies will ask the candidates, 'what salary do you require? If this is too high for their budget they will look at other applicants. A good interview answer is to say that you are willing to start on a lower salary with bonuses driven by targets. This gives them savings on their budget and a safety net if the candidate does not achieve as well as expected.

Q6. What do you think is your weakness?

One of the most important tasks of the interviewer is to find a candidate who they would like to work with and who is likely to get on with other people in their organisation. Candidates often try to answer this popular interview question with a positive trait disguised as a weakness. For example, 'I'm a bit of a perfectionist' or 'I tend to work too hard and expect others to do the same'. An interviewer is looking for someone who has a level of maturity and self-awareness as this is an important trait for creating empathy and working with people. To stand out from other candidates a good interview answer is to mention a genuine weakness, and then emphasize what you've done to overcome or manage your weakness. This is evidence of a truly confident person who takes personal responsibility for themselves.

Q7. Give me an example of when you found working with someone difficult?

By asking this popular interview question, the interviewer is acknowledging that we can all have a problem working with people some of the time. This is a popular question for revealing any prejudices that the candidate might have. Today it is essential that an interviewer employs a candidate who is comfortable working with people from a diverse range of ethnic, cultural, ages and religious backgrounds. A good interview answer would be to mention a specific person who you found difficult to work with rather than a group of people. Give a specific example such as a person resisting change on one project. Importantly, demonstrate the difficulty and how you resolved the issue.

Q8. What will you be doing in five years time?

Ambition and drive are great qualities in a candidate as it demonstrates energy to persevere and reach goals even in tough times. However, an organisation also wants to see signs of stability and loyalty to employers. If your CV shows that you've moved every eighteen months or so the interviewer is likely to need reassuring that you're not going to 'jump ship' to a competitor in a year from now. A good interview answer is to talk about the opportunities you've researched within their organisation and your ambitions to excel within it, particularly if you can refer to employees within their organisation. Setting Clear Objectives before you go for an interview is useful otherwise you can waste time applying for jobs you're unlikely to get.

Q9. Why are you the best person for the job?

As with answering all the other popular interview questions try and appear confident and likable. A poor interview answer is to just say that you're better than any of the other candidates. You don't know the qualifications or experience of the other candidates! A good interview answer is to focus on three to five specific reasons why you should be hired and briefly substantiate your claims. Remember, to tell the interviewer that you're really enthusiastic about being offered this job and determined to demonstrate the contribution and value you can make to their company. Knowing how to sell yourself is an interview is very great interview skill.

Q10. Is there anything you want me to ask you?

Many firms now ask a similar open ended question. This is not a trick question but just gives the candidate a chance to speak on their own behalf. If you think that there have been any problems in the interview, this is your chance to go back into an area which you think the interviewer may have doubt about you. It is not a good interview answer to say, 'no' as this can show that you're not interested in the job. It can also give you a chance to reiterate a strength which you think is important and might distinguish you from other candidates.



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If You Do Not Like Your Career Search Results - Remember YOU Can Change it!

"I'm lucky to be alive." That was told to me by my ex-husband the other day. Let me explain a few things about my ex-husband- first, we are friends. Honest to goodness friends. We have a son together and we are both actively raising him - together. We communicate daily; we listen to each other's ideas and agree on courses of action for our son. The divorce did not start out that way, but the cancer changed all that. Cancer. That's my second thing to explain. He is a cancer survivor - advanced, aggressive, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The doctors thought it developed within a months time and was so aggressive they used experimental treatment, so unknown as to what they were doing they literally told me if the cancer did not kill him the chemo would. He had less than a 10% chance of survival. He beat it, no he kicked its ass. Excuse my language, but I think it appropriate in this instance. But it took its toll, he has neuropathy in his feet, numerous surgeries and treatments and the poor man lives in pain every day. Both his ankles are fused to his leg bones so he has no real flexibility and he said it is like his feet are on fire or walking on glass 24/7. This man has an incredible pain threshold so if he says he hurts anyone else would have cut their own limb off. But he goes to work everyday, spends time with his son and is appreciative to be alive. Lastly, he is a black and white kind of guy, not sniff the roses kind of guy. Very old fashioned, things should be a certain way, no ifs ands or buts. So for him to say he is lucky to be alive it is a huge statement and reflection. Even though he cheated death at just 41.

He called me yesterday to tell me his first oncologist, Dr. Hwang, died earlier this month. They were the same age. Dr. Hwang would have been 49 next Thursday. Dr. Hwang was a wonderful doctor and man. He was patient with us and supportive when my ex was first diagnosed. I am truly sorry for his family; they have lost a great man. Here was a man that fights to save people from this terrible disease and he is outlived by one of his patients. Reflect on that for a moment.

I normally give advice on resumes, interviewing and personal business presentation. Today, with learning of the passing of Dr. Hwang I felt compelled to post a blog as a gentle reminder to myself and others that we are lucky to be alive. Our lives may not be playing out like we would like them to, we may not have a great job or a job at all, we may not have a significant other, we may not have a lot of things - but honestly do we look every day to see what we do have?

Eight years ago when my ex-husband was going through treatment and I was there every night and every weekend it would have been easy to complain of everything that was going wrong. I was rebuilding a relationship with the man whom I divorced a year prior, I was working full time, I was a full time mom, I had no significant other and financially it was difficult. I did not focus on these things. My focus was that the father of my child was going to survive to continue to be a father to his son, I had a great job that I loved and was able to go to every day, I had a beautiful son who was involved in his dad's treatment and an incredible child, I chose to focus my attention on my family rather than find a relationship, and I could pay my bills (maybe a little late) but I could put food on the table for my son and a roof over his head.

By focusing on the positives it helped us all get through that terrible time. My son and his father have a good relationship, I own my own business and after 20 plus years the love of my life is back in my life and we will be getting married in the near future.

In learning of Dr. Hwang's passing, it gave me a kick in the hind quarters. Everything that I had complained about yesterday ticked me off. That I was complaining rather than acting. I had to get myself back on the track of what can I change today to make it better - what choices can I make to eliminated the complaints I had earlier.

Here's the thing - if I wanted to be preachy I could at this point tell you to write down all your blessings, take time out of every day to reflect on the positives, see the good in all people and generally hug yourself. But, really, that is not me. If you know me or have read any of my earlier postings you know that I pretty much say it as I see it and can be blunt.

So what I would really like to say is this - let's get over ourselves. Yes, there are things in our life that stink, we all have that. But, which of those things can you change? Be honest here, you can not blame all the ills of the world on others. Take some action and take back the positives in your life. Don't have a job and feel like you are sending out hundreds of resumes? Have someone look at your resume. If you do not want to hire someone for it, have a friend look at it with you, someone who will be honest with you. My client's pay me to do their resumes but it is more than that, I am honest with them. I do not always tell them things they like but they know I will be honest and work with them to make it their best. I work with them. Go to the library, they have lots of reference materials. Do something to make a positive change.

Have friends that feed your negativity? You get together and have complaint parties? Stay away from them! I have enough stuff I need to focus on, I do not need to take on their complaints and negative energies! Kids acting up and wont listen to you? Get them where it hurts, take away their privileges and make them earn them back. Do not be afraid to be the bad guy - my goodness that is part of our job as parents. Yes, it is harder to hear them whine about not having their phone, but too bad. If my son whines, it just adds to the chores list of time it takes to get it back. Eventually he learns.

With everything, you cannot always control the situation, but you can control how you react to it. That is your choice. Take control, take action and be glad you have the opportunities to do so! I will leave you with my favorite saying: Some pursue happiness,others create it.

"Helping those looking for the right job look right for the job" - this is how Lisa K. McDonald of Career Polish, Inc. describes her purpose. Lisa is a pre-employment/transition strategist and Certified Professional Resume Writer who separates herself by focusing intently on the strategy of job searching.

This strategy includes many vital tools including resumes, cover letters, business communication, networking, social media and personal business branding. Central in her work is teaching clients how to emphasize or re-discover their strengths and be able to communicate them effectively in order to implement a successful job search strategy.

Lisa


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How You Can Start a Legitimate Work From Home Business

The surest way that you will find a legitimate work from home business is to start something for yourself. You can build a business from scratch that is all yours. Granted it may be easier to sign on with a business you have seen advertised as legitimate. However there is a lot to be said for freedom and independence.

While the programs you have seen may be legitimate, they may not be profitable, or there may be other issues that may impede your progress, such as lack of support or a glut of already existing businesses in that niche. Even a bad reputation in an industry such as 'MLM' can make it an uphill battle for you. This may be unfair and untrue, none the less it will be harder for you than if you start something on your own.

If you think of a business that you can do completely on your own, you have the ultimate freedom to do with it what you will. You can ensure that it is a legitimate work from home business by being honest in your promises, and keeping your word. You can over-deliver and price your products fairly so that all may benefit, not just you.

There is 'emotional' language that can compel people to follow you that doesn't have to be 'hype' that will make them mistrust you. Lots of people know the 'if it is too good to be true it probably is' saying, and plenty of them have fallen for false promises and are now skeptical. It doesn't put you in a good light if you have to start right off defending your integrity rather than to be promoting your actual business.

It is always the ideal situation if you use or have used the product yourself so that you can be totally honest in your assessments. You know the other saying, 'it is not what you say but how you say it', and if you truly believe what you are saying because you know first-hand, then what you say will ring true. If you haven't used them, it is a good idea to have honest testimonials from people that have.

Facts and figures also go a long way in conveying that yours is a legitimate work from home business. When you quote statistics or ratings always be sure to provide the source of that information to make doubly sure that people trust what you are saying. Honesty is always important and having tangible proof is the ideal whenever possible.


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Playing Against Type

Myers-Briggs Profiles Help You Assess Your Boss
by Deborah Geering, Porfolio.com


Recognizing the Myers-Briggs personality types of your boss or business partners can help you get what you want in your career.

Leaders are easy to recognize: They're TJs.

"The T is their preference for thinking that leads them to look at the logical consequences of all the alternatives that they face. The J, the judging, comes in and helps them get that organization to fulfill that decision -- to operationalize it and to implement it," says Allen Hammer, a consultant at Manfredo Curtis Associates, which advises companies on how to get the most out of their employees. For Hammer, helping others spot and work effectively with a TJ can mean the difference between an initiative's succeeding or failing.

Welcome to the coded world of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, the system of identifying personality characteristics along four dimensions that can predict the choices people make and how they will interact with others. The types, scored with a letter and used in combinations of four, indicate various qualities, such as judging (J) and thinking (T). Knowing the personality type of a supervisor or a business partner can aid in securing a promotion, closing a deal, or inspiring the next great idea.

"It gives you a sort of advantage over others because you are able to flex your own style to interact with the other person," says executive coach Linda Burrs.

If you're faced with a fact-oriented, so-called sensing type (S), for example, your best move in selling an idea might be to create an impressive PowerPoint presentation. "Sensing types like to see all the facts and details concisely presented," says Betsy Styron, president and C.E.O. of the Center for Applications of Psychological Type in Gainesville, Florida. But the same presentation might fall flat with an intuitive type (N), who prefers to make decisions based on gut feelings.

Although there's no way to really know another person's MB type short of making them take the 93-question diagnostic test themselves, most successful executives tend to cluster around a few major personality types. And you can identify their weaknesses as well as their strengths. While TJs excel at important leadership tasks such as risk taking and goal setting, they're typically not as good at building consensus. "They sometimes come across as too cold, too logical, and too objective," says Hammer.

Fortunately, the business world tends to center on four of the 16 possible MB types. Here are the ones to know and how best to handle them.

ENTJ -- Donald Trump

Donald Trump is a classic example of an ENTJ (Extroverted, iNtuitive, Thinking, Judging), which describes a leader who cuts a commanding profile. "Big picture" people, they have a vision that is results-oriented, and hold themselves and others to high standards. They are unforgiving about deadlines, make firm decisions, and see themselves as confident, innovative organizers. They are also prone to discuss ideas extensively or just think out loud -- but such statements shouldn't be mistaken for firm directives.

INTJ -- Bill Gates

Bill Gates is likely an INTJ (Introverted, iNtuitive, Thinking, Judging), according to Ross Reinhold, a consultant who operates Personalitypathways.com. Innovative and independent, Gates and his ilk value competence and self-sufficiency. They have a knack for reducing complexities to their most basic, and for finding efficient ways to improve processes. Unlike ENTJs, INTJs come across as restrained, an image that often reflects their skepticism and lack of emotion in decisionmaking. Although open-minded, they quickly discard unworkable solutions -- sometimes with sarcasm.

ESTJ -- Martha Stewart

Analytical and systematic thinkers, ESTJs (Extroverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging) value order -- sometimes to the extreme. Martha Stewart, a natural ESTJ, has made a career of it. Like ENTJs, people of this type are also confident decision-makers, but unlike ENTJs, INTJs are more focused on process than vision. How you do something may matter more than what it's about.

ISTJ -- Warren Buffett

ISTJs (Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging) are excellent managers of facts and details. They thrive in hierarchical structures and value consistency and common sense. Although they appreciate hard workers, they can be impatient for results, and they tend to not value innovation as much as execution. Many consider Warren Buffett to be an archetypal ISTJ because of his conservative approach to investing. Thoroughly researched, written plans in which risks are identified and assessed are likely to be well-received by these managers.

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Senin, 30 Agustus 2010

Gift-Giving Guidelines for Colleagues, Clients

by Caroline Levchuck, Yahoo! HotJobs


The holidays can be the most wonderful -- or perilous -- time of year when you factor in giving gifts in and around the office. How much should you spend? What's in? What's out?

You can take the guesswork out of buying presents with a little bit of thought and a lot of expert advice.

Personalized, But Not Too Personal

Personalizing presents is de rigueur this year. Ella Goldin, the owner of Chic Inspiration, a Manhattan-based personal shopping consulting firm, advises her corporate clients, "It really is the thought that counts, so be sure to put thought into it." Goldin urges gift givers to think carefully about the recipient and what he or she enjoys.

Gifts need not be extravagant. In fact, Goldin says, spending too much, especially on a gift for your boss, may be inappropriate. "You don't want to look like you're trying to curry favor rather than spread good cheer. Set a budget and stick to it."

Food gifts and alcohol are popular gift categories. Items such as monogrammed golf balls for an avid golfer or even a hard-to-get reservation at a hot restaurant are thoughtful yet affordable options.

While personalizing gifts is important, make certain you avoid getting too personal. "You don't want to offend anyone so use caution when giving a 'funny' present," she says. Your associates might not share your sense of humor.

Leave out the Logos

"Gifts are a great opportunity to show your clients that you know them," Goldin suggests, "and that you appreciate and understand them." Giving a thoughtful present also gives you something to talk about with clients that's not necessarily business-related. She says, "A fabulous present is a conversation starter."

Remember that while you're showing appreciation you should avoid showing off your brand -- so don't brand your gifts. Goldin, who's been a professional personal shopper for more than seven years, says, "When somebody gives you a great gift, you always remember whom it's from. You don't need to put a logo on it." Goldin adds, "Presents with logos on them can seem tacky and impersonal."

Save promotional materials and presents for another time of year, such as your company's anniversary.

Presenting Your Present

Goldin also coaches clients on presenting their gifts. "I've heard so many people downplay a present before the recipient has even opened it. They'll say, 'Oh, it's just a small gift.'" Big mistake, especially when you've put effort into it. Instead, suggests the present expert, "Present your gift with confidence and poise. Say, 'I bought you this gift and I hope you enjoy it.'"

Saying Thanks

And if you receive a gift, "Always write a heartfelt, handwritten thank you note any time someone gives you a present," she says. Goldin also recommends thank-you notes over last-minute reciprocal gifts. "It can be awkward and obvious if you give someone a random gift. A letter expressing your gratitude is much more appropriate."


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Networking for the Shy

by Heather Boerner, for Yahoo! HotJobs


If you're shy, it can be easy to think that you can bypass having to meet new people -- that is, networking -- by doing outstanding work. Not so, says Meghan Wier, author of "Confessions of an Introvert: The Shy Girl's Guide to Career, Networking and Getting the Most Out of Life."

"If you're not looking to move up or learn anything new, then by all means avoid networking," she said. "But if you want to bring more to your job and expand your career in any way, then it helps an awful lot to know the right people."

The good news is that networking doesn't mean glad-handing 100 strangers at a mixer.

Get Practice

Online networking sites like LinkedIn are a great way to stick a toe in the networking water, said Wier. But don't stop there.

Inch into it: Identify a few people you'd like to meet professionally. Email them an introduction. Next, move up to calling them. Then, arrange an in-person meeting, says Wier. By the time you meet, you'll be prepared to talk to them.

Go One-on-One

If big groups terrify you, arrange individual meetings. Grab your professional organization's member directory and set up coffee appointments with members, asking for guidance.

At these meetings, you can practice your quick self-promotional message -- what you do, why you love it, and where you want to go next -- and practice asking questions about the other person's business. After a while, answering and asking questions will seem normal.

And remember: You many not be the only shy person in the room. Your business date may welcome a chance for low-pressure networking.

Then, when you see your business date at a networking event, he won't be a stranger.

Get a Job

"One of the biggest negatives for shy people (at networking events) is they can be perceived as unfriendly or aloof," says Diane Darling, president of Boston-based Effective Networking.

Send a different message. Volunteer for a job at the event: Hand out nametags, offer to help people find things, or put away people's coats.

Be the Hook-Up

"As a shy person, I don't like it to be about me," says Wier. "So I like to consider myself a goodwill ambassador. If I meet someone who needs an electrician, I can say, 'I know someone who's an electrician. Have you talked to that person?' Then it becomes less about me and more about connecting people."

Once you impress others as helpful, they're more inclined to help you.

"It's good networking karma," she said. "The person you meet may not be the one who gets you a new job, but maybe the people she knows will."

Cut Your Losses

Finally, once you've hit your limit, there's no shame in making a graceful exit.

"As an introverted person, after a while you'll get exhausted and forcing it is just going to make you miserable," Wier says. "Go home and conquer another day."


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Job Search Tips - 4 Ways to Transition Into Medical Sales, Even If You Have No Experience

Many people find that there are roadblocks they can't get past when trying to break into medical sales, medical devices, laboratory sales, or other health care sales-but it can be done. The biggest one is the lack of a medical background. But here are 4 ways you can overcome that:

1. You can get experience through job shadowing-doctors, nurses, or medical sales reps. Job shadowing gives you an understanding of what a typical day is like (which gives you greater credibility in your interviews), and more importantly, it gives you keywords for your resume. When you put this experience on your resume, it will naturally have the words in it that computerized HR systems are looking for when screening for candidates.

2. Related to that, you can volunteer at medical companies, medical clinics, and hospitals. This works the same way. You get experience, knowledge, and keywords-only over a longer period of time. Volunteer experiences say a lot about the commitment level of candidates.

3. Internships are great, too, for the same reasons. Don't be shy about this if you've been in the workforce for a while. It's always a positive to do something that furthers your goals.

4. You can even spend time with those who have experience in the field...take them to lunch, and conduct informational interviews so that you become more fluent in the language and the vernacular of the field. Informational interviews are fantastic vehicles for getting the "inside scoop" on the industry, as well as individual companies. Most people don't mind being asked, as long as you don't try to turn it into a job interview.

Here's one thing to remember: At some point, no one has experience. We've all got to get our foot in the door somehow, and any of these options are great ways to do that.

Peggy McKee is known nationally for placing top sales talent at companies that are Fortune 5, 100, and 500 organizations as the owner and chief recruiter for PHC Consulting. Her firm works with sales, sales management, marketing and technical support candidates in the medical products/laboratory products/healthcare products arena. See her website at http://www.phcconsulting.com/

Learn more about how to break into medical sales by signing up for Peggy's FREE hour-long webinar: How to Get Into Medical Sales. She will tell you the essential steps you need to take to transition and show you how to get the job.



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Jobs For Teens in a Recession

In the current recession, jobs for teens may seem impossible to find. Nevertheless, employers are still hiring in a vast array of industries, including traditional teen outlets like retail. Knowing one's skills and understanding the unique legal components to teenage work is essential for finding a key job.

One important way to find a job is by using an online job application. Recruiters for companies like Wal-Mart are constantly searching for talent, particularly as the summer approaches, but this is a great strategy for any time of the year. Too young for a resume? No way!

All a person needs to do is list his or her skills; most teenagers are socially adept and the bulk of jobs for teens focus on developing social skills, working with management and developing team strategies for getting work done. A teenager may have to think critically in such a dreadful economy, but it is possible to get work using technology like Facebook to search for jobs and read ads posted.

Many states require teenagers to be sixteen to start working and in some cases, a teenager may need a worker's permit; furthermore, work hours are limited because of regulations. For instance, an 18-hour workweek is the maximum number of hours permitted during the school year for teenagers between ages 14-15. 16-17 year olds may work an unlimited number of hours, but many managers are willing to work around school schedules and teenagers at this age range often work 8 hours, or the equivalent to a full-time shift, on the weekends.

Assuming a teenager has the legal qualifications to work, the next strategy is to decide what one likes doing. If, for example, a teenager enjoys folding clothes, communicating and helping customers during their shopping sprees, retail, such as a store like Sears, may be an intriguing option. Those preferring more manual work could look into delivering packages for Fed-Ex.

People hear gloom regarding economics, but stores will always need workers. Jobs for teens often represent that initial thrust into the world of independence and self-awareness. A teenager must never give up and plan to look for some time. It may take up to six months to find a job, but teenagers should make use of technology, cast a wide net and make sure they have the maturity to start working. If they can follow the outlined steps, most likely a teenager will soon start working.

Will Stone 


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Teens, Jobs, and The Economy

More young teens than ever might be looking for jobs this summer as money is tight in many families. Many teens start looking for jobs when they get around the age of 15 or 16 as they enter high school and need money for dating and cars. This year though, many 13 and 14 year olds might be interested in finding some job or way to make money. How old does a child have to be to get a real job?

The US government has a set of laws that lays the groundwork for what kind of jobs teens can get and at what age they can get those jobs. For instance, any job that is considered dangerous or hazardous cannot be performed by anyone younger than 16 years old. Jobs involving heavy machinery and chemicals would fall into this category. Once you are 16 or older, you might be allowed to do some of those jobs or all of them. Additionally, each state has its own set of rules that need to be followed concerning child employment.

Teens that set out to find their first job are often scared and rightly so. It is uncharted territory for them and in many cases it will be their first foray out into the real world. This year might be an especially bad time to be looking for that first job as the economy is horrendous and they might face an unusually high amount of rejection. It is a bad situation for both employers and job seekers.

Very young teens will probably not qualify for many real jobs and most of them will probably be snapped up very quickly. This year, older teens and even adults may be happy to get any job they can and will take jobs that they might ordinarily have turned down in other years. This means younger teens will have to think of other ways to make money by perhaps doing odd jobs around the neighborhood such as pet sitting and weeding.

Summer is already here and those that started their job search early might already have jobs. If you are a teen just beginning to look, you should be aware that the road ahead might be long and frustrating. Patience will be the key as this could turn out to be one of the worst summers to be looking for a job in recent memory.


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Resume Writing Tip Without Which You Will Fail

The terrible truth is that loads of resumes quickly end up in the waste paper basket shortly after they arrive and the tip you are about to read will help you avoid the trash can from the moment you start writing your resume.

Many people will pay a lot of attention to format and presentation but both are not as important and crucial as this one resume writing tip that you are about to discover. What you must do is to develop the sort of resume that will get them to sit up and take notice of you. There are many things you will need to do to accomplish this, but one of the most important is to quantify your achievements and accomplishments of the past. If you helped improve sales or productivity then put a dollar value to it. Or number of units produced. Or amount of time saved in the process you helped improve.

The most common mistake made when writing accomplishments in resumes is to make sweeping statements that hardly ring true; you can tip the scales dramatically in your favor by ensuring from this day on that you always quantify. The result is that not only will your achievements ring true when you do this, but you will also grab the interest of executives as they compare your figures with their own if not start visualizing what you can accomplish for them on the job. Talk about having a head start on the competition before you have even arrived for the job interview.


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Prepare Your Own Assistant Personnel Manager Resume Professionally

The function of HR department is very important in any organization. It is basic duty of this section to maintain complete records of employees, starting from, their recruitment, joining, training and working to, leaving or retirement from the job. This department also looks after the employee Payroll, benefits, performance appraisal and coordination between management and employee.

The important functions, duties and responsibilities of HR sector of a company or organization, can be summed up as follows:

• Recruitment (Search for caliber candidate, Interview, coordination with consultant, give offer letter, sign various employee agreements with the employee, reference check, select or reject the candidate, provide rejection letter etc.)

• Training (prepare candidate for specific job, conduct orientation program for new recruits, evaluate different recruitment programs)

• Administration (Maintain records of employee Handbook, insurance, leaves, performance evaluation, agreements, benefits, schedules of training programs, organize different company events, programs and functions, employee compensation and so on.

• Welfare (looks after employee complaints and grievances, coordination with the management and assists in offering proper and better working environment).

• Management (manpower planning, completes recruitment for different departmental positions, issue various employee related letters, circulars and notices, recruit management level personnel, employee payroll and related services)

Every HR department is headed by HR Head or Manager, assisted by Assistant Personnel Manager and HR executives, in carrying out different HR functions to the satisfaction of the management. Due to such importance of HR section, any professional recruited to support HR Manager, must be well versed with all HR responsibilities.

Thus, any professional applying for the assistant managerial position, in any organization, must be aware of these HR facts. Any Assistant Personnel Manager Resume must include, his precise HR skills to impress Employer or Hiring HR Manager with his HR competency. His Sample HR Resume needs mentioning, his prior HR working experience, specialized HR education and knowledge of HR duties and functions.

It is also necessary that, the resume must be well formatted and expertly written, avoiding unnecessary details. The different sub headings, to furnish specific details for resume formatting, can be summed up as follows:

• Contact Details

• Professional Summary & Achievements

• Experience

• Academic Qualification

• Certificate & Awards

• Technical and Additional Skills

• References

Also remember to jot down your signature and date at the end of the resume.



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Building the Best Movie Trailer - Your Resume

Did you watch the award-winning movie 'Avatar' by James Cameron?

If the answer is yes, my next question to you is what made you decide to go & watch the film?

If you ponder hard you will realize that it was the sleek and classy movie trailer which initially caught your attention. The rest as you know is box office history. But what If the trailer was a damp squib? Would you have still rushed to catch the first day first show?

Maybe...Maybe not.

Now let us move away from 'Avatar' and ask a few pertinent questions related to you and how you market yourself when you are looking for a new job or a job promotion.

How good is your resume? Does it do justice to your skills? Is it an exaggeration or an understatement?

The missing X factor can only be ascertained by you as you go through countless job interviews and keep wondering why you were not selected. Clichéd as this may sound your lack luster resume attracts just as many views as a badly made movie trailer.

The recruitment industry is a multi-million dollar industry run by professionals seeking business from the best employers. Recruiters market candidates through their resumes. So if you have a bad resume they may miss you out even though in reality you are extremely good. Moment of truth, The fault actually lies in the way you market yourself.

So what are the do's and don'ts of making a promising resume?

1) Approach a professional company to design the most apt and marketable resume. This may cost a few dollars but it could well get you access to the initial interview.

2) Create one on your own PC by using the latest resume software available via various search engines

3) Start with an overview about your skills, aspirations, goals & the most desired job.

4) Always list the most recent qualification/Job at the top & then move down in chronological order briefly outlining each item. This gives the potential employer a very holistic view of your collectively skill subset.
Keep it simple yet relevant to the times.

5) Insert the most recent passport size photograph taken against a white background. Try not to exaggerate your appearance.

6) Avoid a clutter of information. A 2 page resume is all the employer needs to decide on calling you for the initial interview.

7) Re-work your resume each time you apply for a new job. Make your experience relative to the job you are applying for. A standard unchanged resume may not attract recruiters who are looking for 'The Edge' in your profile.

8) Include a cover letter preceding your resume. This always gets the attention of recruiters and employers as it is one segment that can be personalized to appeal to your target employer.

9) Do not portray yourself as an over qualified candidate. Experience teaches us that these candidates hardly get past the first or second interview.

10) Lastly read-up about a company before you apply for a job. Make your resume relevant to the company in concern.

Arland

 
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Teen Job Search Tip - Get a Professional Resume Prepared

This is your time to shine. Your resume is a personal marketing tool that if done right, will snag you the interview. It is important to build a resume that is polished and effective. A resume that presents a concise and authentic picture of your skills is worth its weight in gold during the job search because it tells the employer very effectively why they should choose you.

Keep Their Interest!
In this competitive job market, employers receive hundreds and thousands of resumes every day. A busy employer going through a stack of resumes will look at your resume for less than a minute. In order to keep their interest, your resume needs to be concise and have a professional, current look.

What a Professional Resume Looks Like
A professional resume will have the following sections: Objective or Professional Summary, Skill Summary, Employment History, Education Section, Honors /Awards Section, and a Professional Membership Section. It will be printed on beige or white resume quality paper stock that can be purchased in the office section of your local department store.

How to Build A Resume
It is a good idea to check out some online resources for assistance when building your first resume. There are free templates that you can download to assist you. Also, if you need some individual help you can contact your local school guidance counselor, local Workforce Development Office or local Department of Labor Office and speak with a career counselor for free.

No matter how you decide to put your resume together, work on it until it absolutely sings, "Choose me!". Make sure you spell check it and then ask someone you trust to read it for spelling errors and clarity. Take your time! Preparing a great resume will give you confidence; it will help you discover your strengths and demonstrate them effectively to an employer.

Happy Job Seeking!

Marcy Travis 


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3 Keys to a Successful Job Search

With all the layoffs that have taken place over the last couple of years, it's no wonder that many of those who are still employed often feel stretched to the maximum of their productivity. It can be very demanding looking for another job when your current one is continually stressing you out. After all, when you get home from a long and frustrating day, the last thing you want to do is give any more thought to the world of work. Unfortunately, most new jobs don't just fall into your lap-you have to go out and get them. Approaching your job search as strategically and as systematically as you would approach your next business deal can help keep the process manageable.

Initiation

If you were going to start a huge new project at work, would your first step be to just sit down and start the project? Of course not! A lot of planning and preparation go into any major project, and your job search should be no different. Therefore, the first step is NOT to sit down and start sending out dozens of generalized resumes to any job that sounds OK. Your first task should be to determine exactly what you're looking for in your next position. Just like you can't write a project plan until you know what the project is, you simply cannot write an effective resume or cover letter without some idea of where you'd like your career to go. You may find this part of the process to be the most time-consuming, as it requires some soul searching, however, it's an essential step in the process that must not be skipped.

Planning

Once you've determined your professional goals, you're ready to spend some time assembling your marketing tools-a cover letter, resume, and any other pertinent documents that support your message. This is essentially the same process as setting up a project at work; you need both plans and human resources for an effective job search. A professional resume writer can be an invaluable tool for a job seeker who's incredibly busy with his or her current vocation. Any resume writer will need you to gather and submit information about your past positions and achievements, but then let go of the reins; allowing the professional to agonize over each individual line on your resume will remove that weight from your own shoulders.

Execution

Only when you've established a goal and pulled together the tools needed to accomplish it should you actually start looking for and applying to jobs. Setting up e-mail alerts through sites like simplyhired.com or indeed.com can save you hours of scouring through online employment ads. If you tackle your search in a strategic and systematic manner, you should soon reach a place where you can go to your inbox, look through positions that may be a good fit for you, and then simply customize your polished resume for each application. Consider each quality job application you send off as a deliverable in the project of finding yourself another job. Whenever you successfully land your next position, you'll be able to close out this project and move on to the next one!

Jessica Holbrook Hernandez

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Job Search - The Paperwork Requirements in a Paperless Society

In job search there are some basic documents you require to be successful. Even in the society that is moving towards e-everything we are still required to carry around pieces of paper that allow us to present our best face forward. In this article we will examine the paperwork, what it should contain and how it should be used.

Business Card - More common in the world of the employed smart job searchers have taken this small card to heart and are using it to its maximum effect. A typical card will contain basic contact data including email (sensible, businesslike one please) telephone number and name. Some people have a job title printed on the front such as "Sales Guru" or "Project Leader". Be careful how you use this as it could limit your opportunities unless you are totally focused on a single career path. Others use the reverse side of the card to list their skills and strengths.

Use this card as your message when you meet people in a situation where a Bio or Resume is not appropriate.

Bio - A one page summary that is NOT a resume. A more text focused document that emphasizes you the person, your experiences, a short story or two that bring out the qualities that best define you and perhaps some reasons why others would look up to you.

Included in the Job Search Bio is often found a short summary of the employment highlights, Company Name, Title and Dates. To round it off if you are using this document at networking events then a short list of your target companies and the target positions you are looking for. This should be a document designed to let people help you in your search.

Use this is networking situations where you want to have a short synopsis available for a large group of people or where a resume is a little to much.

Resume - We are not going to rehash the development of a resume but a good resume should include:

A summary that captures the essence of your strengths, this section should have white space and a clean layout. It should be liberally sprinkled with keywords.

An experience section that where possible quantifies your achievements in such a way as to demonstrate your value.

The resume is a tool that should be used to obtain an interview, which is its sole purpose.

Cover Letter - Accompanying the resume is often a cover letter. A document no longer than one page and designed to capture the interest of the reader and persuade them to read the entire attached resume.

The cover letter shares certain characteristics with the resume summary in that it should capture the essence of your strengths, should have white space and a clean layout. It should also contain a "call to action".

Portfolio - Copies of published articles, presentations delivered at conferences or other noteworthy documents can be gathered and stored in a site such as LinkedIn. You can have a link on your email signature that points people to your profile and allows them to view those paper documents that have now been scanned in.

Keep copies in a folder and have them with you as you attend networking meetings or interviews.

Good hunting.

Barry Simpson


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