Career Advisor

Computer Information Systems Career Outlook

2012-10-22T07:38:00.002-07:00

Question: Is Computer Information Systems a career in high demand in the USA? I'm think of studying this but I do not want to spent my grant and loans on a degree that 's not going to be worth it.

Answer: In a simple answer yes. It does depend on what field you go in once you get your degree, I think that Network and Computer Systems Administrators and Computer Support Specialists are not going to be in as demand as other fields. This is because of Cloud Computing.

The real growth is going to be in Application development for mobile devices such as Tablets and Phones.

Employment of software developers is projected to grow 30 percent from 2010 to 2020, much faster than the average for all occupations. The main reason for the rapid growth is a large increase in the demand for computer software.

If you are interested in Computers, I recommend that you get a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. You will dramatically increase you earning potential and career security.

Medical Leave

2012-08-30T12:40:00.003-07:00

Question: Sorry this is a long one.... I recently came back from a medical leave and was told the company is restructuring and is now "rotating" it's positions. In essence, they unofficially demoted me to a position I had more than 5 years ago. As a result, I am looking for a new job.

What should I put on my resume? Do I keep the old position and explain the circumstances in an interview? Or do I just put the old position and hope that I don't get judged on it!

Please help!!!

Answer: Were you demoted because you took medical leave? If so, you know that’s illegal for your employer to do? Under the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) the employer has to show that you were demoted for something other than taking Medical Leave.

Back to your question. Keep the old position on your resume and explain the circumstances in an interview IF they are asked. Always be honest to questions that are directly asked by you in an interview because the truth usually comes out in the end.

Marketing Graduate

2012-06-12T07:59:00.001-07:00

Question:

I graduated about 3 years ago with a degree in marketing. i completed a 6months internship after. since i've been back i have been struggling to get a job and is feeling fustrated. I am currently doing a 6months online course in digital marketing inorder to help with job opportunity.

Is there any thing i can do to help get at least an interview?

Answer:
Things are tuff for people in your age group (I bet you're getting tired of hearing that). Here are some suggestions that I have just from the information that you have provided.

Be available to move anywhere in the country for a job opportunity. State on your resume that you are will in to relocate anywhere.
Be creative with your experience. Set up a blog to share your marketing ideas. I've gotten a recruiting job before because I had listed the this blog on my resume. Use your blog to market things. There are plenty of advertising that you can incorporate into your blog.
Send your resume to companies that employ people like you even if they do not have active job openings. Use LinkedIN for the research.
Make connections with people that can help you. Do this by actually calling them on the phone instead of emailing. If you see a job opening don't just submit your resume through their web site, actually pick up the phone and call the company. Ask to speak to someone in the Marketing department (Don't ask to speak to the recruiter because you want to make an impression on the hiring manager).

Hope it was helpful. Good luck and be persistent.

New job offer

2012-06-12T05:48:00.001-07:00

Question:

I have a new job offer in a 5 star hotel ,
1- the cash that am earning now is similar to what I was offered
2- I used to work 36 h a week , the new offer is asking for 48h
3- I will be having a better job title in the new offer
4- the work place is double the current work place

Please help me find should I accept the new offer??

Answer:
This is ultimately your decision, but here are the questions that I would ask myself.

Does the new position offer better chances of advancement then the current one?
Is 48 hours per week something that I would want to do long term?

To me, a better title without a raise in pay, is not worth it unless I have a chance to make more money later. Ultimately that is is a decision that you would have to make. Good Luck.

Respiratory Therapist Demand

2012-05-02T10:52:00.002-07:00

Question: I am an out of work 36 year old father who is looking to start fresh with a new career. i just wanted to know if there was a demand for respiratory therapists?

Answer: In 2010, there were 112,700 jobs for Respiratory Therapist in the country while there is projected to be $143,900 by 2020. This is an above average growth for any occupation. The average pay was $54,280/year.

Employment of respiratory therapists is expected to grow by 28 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than the average for all occupations. Growth in the middle-aged and elderly population will lead to an increased incidence of respiratory conditions such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and pneumonia, respiratory disorders that permanently damage the lungs or restrict lung function. These factors will lead to an increased demand for respiratory therapy services and treatments, mostly in hospitals and nursing homes. In addition, advances in preventing and detecting disease, improved medications, and more sophisticated treatments will increase the demand for respiratory therapists. Other conditions affecting the general population, such as smoking, air pollution, and respiratory emergencies, will continue to create demand for respiratory therapists.

You'll increase your chances of being hired if you have a certification or bachelors degree on top of the required associates degree.

Good Luck

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/Healthcare/Respiratory-therapists.htm#tab-6

From college drop out to tech God

2012-04-25T10:28:00.003-07:00

Question: I am starting a new tech business in CA. I have great connections and steady track record of traction. Now, I am ready to pitch to investors. One problem may appear that I am a college dropout. I wasn't able to finish my degrees because I was working full time and at that time, my employer wasn't able to adjust my work hours. So I decided to drop out the college for my financial reasons over 10 years ago. Please help me how I should phrase this with positive light. Thank you very much for your help.

Answer: Just ask them if they've heard of Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, or Steve Jobs.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_college_dropout_billionaires

Seriously, focus on your idea, business plan, and be honest about your history. Good luck!

Visual Arts in Denmark

2012-01-19T10:31:00.000-08:00

Question:

Hello,
I am a student from Denmark, about to choose a Master's Degree and I'm having a hard time figuring out what to study since I haven't found the right career path. I hope you can help me with this.

Here's my education background:
This Summer I will get my Bachelor's Degree in Digital Design.
Before this I studied Medicine for a year.
I have a lot of experience with the visual arts (I paint, draw, illustrate, create tattoo designs, photograph, model and design album packaging in my free time), which I have developed throughout my life. I also am very interested in music, I sing and write music in a band. The visual arts stuff is however more important for me.

What I'm trying to do is to find the right career where I can have use of as many of my visual art skills as possible and get paid for it. I'm not interested in doing just fine arts in my basement for the rest of my life, I want to create things and be able to live off of what I do :)

This is where I have a lot of difficulty, because I don't know what professions fit me best. I would ideally just find a very long list of career options to pick and choose from but nobody has made this list, so I have no idea what people actually need on the job market now and therefore I don't know how to focus my skills in the rest of my education. Is this something you could help me with?

Answer:
I am not an expert on Danish employment options however I know a letter about Digital Design. You have a lot of career options open to you depending on what choices you want to make.

Here are a few Job Titles that you may look into:

Computer game developer
Computer graphics designer
Technical writer
Videographer
Advertising artist

Animator
Industrial designer
Set designer
Tattoo artist
Technical illustrator
Web designer

I think the best career choice would be Web Design and Software Engineering in general. The needs for those careers are World wide.

Good luck.

Law Degree

2012-01-06T07:13:00.000-08:00

Question: I am investment analyst and equity trader in a bank, i am 32 years old and recently read some books on finance and restructuring , got interested in law.

Although already an MBA i would like to know the feasibility of this law degree.

Answer: Education is an investment. Like any investment you have to make sure that you will get the desired return on your investment.

A law degree can be expensive in both money and time. Will you get that money back with increased earning potential?

Most Law programs (the good ones) require you to go full time. Are you in a position where you can take a year or two off from working full time to go to Law School? There are Part-time Law School Programs but they require a fair amount of time also.

You are definitely young enough to go back to school, but I would first do some research on what law specialty you would do and if it would give you the best return on your investment. You may not care about your investment, this may be something that you just WANT to do. In that case, go for it.

Part Time Law Schools:

Part-time law programs allow working professionals to balance a career with evening or weekend courses. Students in part-time programs can usually earn a J.D. in four years.

Here is a ling to the best Part Time Law Schools as ranked by US News and World Report: http://grad-schools.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-law-schools/part-time-law-rankings

Georgetown Law School is ranked #1.

Students

1,626

enrolled (full-time)

334

enrolled (part-time)

Tuition

$45,105

per year (full-time)

$39,120

per year (part-time)

So, to answer your question. Is it feasible? It is certainly feasible for someone that has the financial resources and time to devote to it. Only you know if you are one of them.

Good Luck.

Army Spouse

2012-01-05T06:38:00.000-08:00

Question: I am an Army spouse and mother of four. We live approximately 45 minutes from base. I have a BS in Social Work. I have never had working experience with this degree. I am an honorably discharged Army officer. My MOS was Quartermaster or Logistics. I have a Masters in Human Resources Development. Again, I have not working experience with this degree. I have been working part time at my children's private school. Year 1- I was the aftercare coordinator. Years 2 and present year, I am the Music Teacher, Drama coach, and Musical director of the school musicals. My salary with the tuition discount for my children comes out to about $10K/year. I would like to start working full time in the next year or so. I simply don't know where to start or which direction to move in. I am reluctant to give up what I am doing now because I love music and this is the first time in my life I have been paid doing my passion. But the fact remains that only my husband's salary makes tuition payments very difficult and vacations and fun stuff unrealistic. Thank you so much for your time.

Answer:
You have the following education:
- Bachelor of Science in Social Work
- Masters in Human Resources Development

Have you thought about getting into Human Resources? I have seen many Human Resource Generalist with the same Masters Degree that you have. There are many specialties in Human Resources that may appeal to your Social Work undergraduate education.

An example:

Employee assistance plan managers, also called employee welfare managers or work-life managers, are responsible for a wide array of programs to enhance employee safety and wellness and improve work-life balance. These may include occupational safety and health standards and practices, health promotion and physical fitness, medical examinations and minor health treatment, such as first aid, flexible work schedules, food service and recreation activities, carpooling and transportation programs such as transit subsidies, employee suggestion systems, child care and elder care, and counseling services. Child care and elder care are increasingly significant because of growth in the number of dual-income households and the older population. Counseling may help employees deal with emotional disorders, alcoholism, or marital, family, consumer, legal, and financial problems. Some employers offer career counseling and outplacement services. In some companies, certain programs, such as those dealing with physical security or information technology, may be coordinated in separate departments by other managers. (See administrative services managers elsewhere in the Handbook.) Source: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos021.htm

Here is are some job examples: http://jobs.career-advisor.net/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-%22employee+welfare%22

Another example:

Training and development. Training and development managers and specialists create, procure, and conduct training and development programs for employees. Managers typically supervise specialists and make budget-impacting decisions in exchange for a reduced training portfolio. Increasingly, executives recognize that training offers a way of developing skills, enhancing productivity and quality of work, and building worker loyalty. Enhancing employee skills can increase individual and organizational performance and help to achieve business results. Increasingly, executives realize that developing the skills and knowledge of its workforce is a business imperative that can give them a competitive edge in recruiting and retaining high quality employees and can lead to business growth. Source: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos021.htm]

Job Examples: http://jobs.career-advisor.net/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-%22human+resources%22+training+-manager

And another:

Training specialists plan, organize, and direct a wide range of training activities. Trainers consult with training managers and employee supervisors to develop performance improvement measures, conduct orientation sessions, and arrange on-the-job training for new employees. They help employees maintain and improve their job skills and prepare for jobs requiring greater skill. They work with supervisors to improve their interpersonal skills and to deal effectively with employees. They may set up individualized training plans to strengthen employees’ existing skills or teach new ones. Training specialists also may set up leadership or executive development programs for employees who aspire to move up in the organization. These programs are designed to develop or “groom” leaders to replace those leaving the organization and as part of a corporate succession plan. Trainers also lead programs to assist employees with job transitions as a result of mergers or consolidation, as well as retraining programs to develop new skills that may result from technological changes in the work place. In government-supported job-training programs, training specialists serve as case managers and provide basic job skills to prepare participants to function in the labor force. They assess the training needs of clients and guide them through the most appropriate training. After training, clients may either be referred to employer relations representatives or receive job placement assistance. Source: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos021.htm

Compensation:

Median annual wages of training and development specialists were $51,450 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent earned between $38,550 and $67,450. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $29,470, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $85,160. Median annual wages in the industries employing the largest numbers of training and development specialists were:

Computer systems design and related services	$61,110
General medical and surgical hospitals	56,540
Insurance carriers	55,190
Management of companies and enterprises	54,800
Local government	52,080
State government	48,480

More jobs:
Human Resources around Fort Brag: http://jobs.career-advisor.net/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-%22human+resources%22/l-Fort+Bragg%2CNC/mi-50

Human Resources around Fort Lewis: http://jobs.career-advisor.net/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-%22human+resource+generalist%22/l-Fort+Lewis%2C+WA/mi-50

Good Luck.

Two Bachelors and need the next step

2011-09-28T11:46:00.000-07:00

Question: Hi,

I believe I have a lot of talents to offer an employer and yet I have been unsuccessful in finding a "good" job.
Currently, I am working a part-time temp. job at a finance firm, I process on-line investments and research accounts. I have been there for 9 months.

I have 2 BA's, one in Art and another in a foreign language. I have studied abroad 3x during my academic career. The last time was with a scholarship where I did an internship for 5 months at a small design firm.

My artistic faculties include: Photography, Graphic Design, Drawing, Ceramics and Metals.

I have office experience, customer service experience,

I am basically a "jack of all trades."

I am feeling really hopeless with the way things are going with the economy and have started to think about going back to school to get my Master's.

Do you think this is a good idea? Would you possibly have any recommendations on a career path I should think of pursuing?

I have a great interest in museums and have gone on sites like USAJOBS.GOV. Most of the positions that I believe I would be able to do require a MA.

Thank you for your help and I look forward to your answer!

Answer:

It sounds like you have some great skills and knowledge that an employer would want. The problem may be one of two things.

1) how you're displaying you skill and education when you are applying to positions.

2) Connecting what jobs your are qualified for to what you are interested in.

My first question would be if you have applied to entry level graphic design positions? Or if you have interest in that? Here is a link to some of those type of positions: http://jobs.career-advisor.net/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-entry+level+%22graphic+designer%22

You are right about the fact that Museum jobs usually require a Master's degree or higher. It is never a bad idea to get more education if you are able to. However, Museum Technicians often only require a Bachelors Degree.

Museum technicians usually need a bachelor's degree in an appropriate discipline of the museum's specialty, training in museum studies, or previous experience working in museums, particularly in the design of exhibits. Similarly, archives technicians usually need a bachelor's degree in library science or history, or relevant work experience. Relatively few schools grant a bachelor's degree in museum studies. More common are undergraduate minors or tracks of study that are part of an undergraduate degree in a related field, such as art history, history, or archaeology. Students interested in further study may obtain a master's degree in museum studies, offered in colleges and universities throughout the country. However, many employers feel that, while museum studies are helpful, a thorough knowledge of the museum's specialty and museum work experience are more important.

Here is some great information about the jobs market for Archivists, Curators, and Museum Technicians http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos065.htm

I found just a few of these jobs but you may want to check in-person at Art museums near you. These types of positions are usually not posted on the internet.

http://jobs.career-advisor.net/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-%22Museum+technician%22

Here is some great information about Graphic Designers. You can take some local computer classes to get you graphics knowledge up to speed and get a job fairly quickly. http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos090.htm

Here is a pdf file titled "What can I do with my Liberal Arts degree". Please check this out too.

http://www.bls.gov/opub/ooq/2007/winter/art01.pdf

I hope this helps.

What should I study?

2011-08-09T05:59:00.000-07:00

Question: I am a junior in high school and I am not quite sure what I want to study in college. I am thinking about psychology, public administration and business administration-real estate or management. What do you think I should study?

Answer: While I do not want to tell you what to study, I can give you some information about the job outlook for these majors.

Psychology:

About 34 percent of psychologists are self-employed, mainly as private practitioners and independent consultants.
Employment growth will vary by specialty; for example, clinical, counseling, and school psychologists will have 11 percent growth; industrial-organizational psychologists, 26 percent growth; and 14 percent growth is expected for all other psychologists.
Acceptance to graduate psychology programs is highly competitive.
Job opportunities should be the best for those with a doctoral degree in a subfield, such as health; those with a master’s degree will have good prospects in industrial-organization; bachelor’s degree holders will have limited prospects.
Reference: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos056.htm
Sample of current job openings: http://jobs.career-advisor.net/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-Psychology

Public Administration:
State and local government:

Local governments employ more than twice as many workers as State governments.
Professional and service occupations accounted for more than half of all jobs; fire fighters and law enforcement workers, concentrated in local government, are among the largest occupations.
Although job prospects vary by State and region, overall prospects are expected to be favorable.
Employer-provided benefits are more common among State and local government employees than among workers in the private sector.
Reference: http://www.bls.gov/oco/cg/cgs042.htm
This information may change due to current State and Local government budget issues.
Sample of current job openings: http://jobs.career-advisor.net/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-%22Public+Administration%22

Business Administration-Real Estate:

A license is required in every State and the District of Columbia.
Residential real estate brokers and sales agents often work evenings and weekends.
Although gaining a job may be relatively easy, beginning workers face competition from well-established, more experienced agents and brokers.
Employment is sensitive to swings in the economy, as well as interest rates; during periods of declining economic activity or rising interest rates, the volume of sales and the resulting demand for sales workers fall.
Reference: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos120.htm
Sample of current job openings: http://jobs.career-advisor.net/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-%22Real+estate%22

Business Administration - Management:

This is a degree that can be applied to most any job opportunity and may offer the best opportunity for entry level work. Administrative services managers plan, coordinate, and direct a broad range of services that allow organizations to operate efficiently. They might, for example, coordinate space allocation, facilities maintenance and operations, and major property and equipment procurement. They also may oversee centralized operations that meet the needs of multiple departments, such as information and data processing, mail, materials scheduling and distribution, printing and reproduction, records management, telecommunications management, security, recycling, wellness, and transportation services. Administrative services managers also ensure that contracts, insurance requirements, and government regulations and safety standards are followed and up to date. They may examine energy consumption patterns, technology usage, and personal property needs to plan for their long-term maintenance, modernization, and replacement.

Job prospects. Applicants will face keen competition for the limited number of higher-level administrative services management jobs; competition should be less severe for lower-level management jobs. Job prospects will also be better for those who can manage a wide range of responsibilities, than for those who specialize in particular functions. In addition to the new administrative services management jobs due to growth in the occupation, many job openings will stem from the need to replace workers who transfer to other jobs, retire, or leave the occupation for other reasons.

Job opportunities may vary from year to year because the strength of the economy affects demand for administrative services managers. Industries least likely to be affected by economic fluctuations tend to be the most stable places for employment.

Reference: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos002.htm

Sample of current job openings: http://jobs.career-advisor.net/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-%22Business+Management%22

MBA that hates his job

2011-07-19T10:18:00.000-07:00

Question: I am 25 and got my MBA 2 years ago. I accepted a job as a reference librarian six months later because I was desperate and it did not seem like a bad job. Now I am really bored and heartily dislike my job.

I have been applying for jobs in HR, higher ed and events for the last 6 months with few results. I have also considered the Air Force but I have been told that officer positions are limited and extremely competitive right now.

Now I realize getting an MBA without much experience was not a great plan, especially in this economy. I am also not really sure what I want to do. I have taken several career tests and gravitate towards human resources, entrepreneurship and mentoring/teaching.

My question is twofold; how do I figure out which career path to take and then how do I get there?

Thank You

Answer: Question #1 How do I figure out which career path to take? Research. Here are some Question that you can ask yourself to narrow down your interests to start your research.

Is there someone in your past or present such as a family member or friend that you admire? What do they do?
What do you spend the majority of your off time doing? Such as a sport, entertainment, or hobby. Sometimes the most obvious answers are the ones that are right in front of you.
Are you afraid to take a chance? You may need to just take a chance on a career and see where it leads you.
The education that an MBA gives you can be adapted to any career, what MBA classes did you enjoy most? Was it Marketing, Management, HR, etc...?
If you're bored and heartily dislike your job, why haven't you left already? Wouldn't any job be better then that? Are you afraid to make another career mistake? "A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable, but more useful than a life spent doing nothing. ---George Bernard Shaw (1856 - 1950)"

Question #2 How do I get to a career once I find out which one to take? Research.

Do you know anyone that works in that career? Ask them to be your mentor.
The Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), 2010-11 Edition published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics tells you the training and education needed; the earnings; expected job prospects; what workers do on the job; and the working conditions of the majority of jobs in our economy.

Good luck. Once you make a decision I have not doubt you will be highly successful because you had the courage to ask this question.

RPN going back to school?

2011-06-24T13:53:00.000-07:00

Question: I am an RPN and have recently been accepted to the bridging program at Mcmaster University to become an RN. I kind of applied on a whim and now am not sure if I want to go back to school or not, 3 years fulltime studies seems too long at this point. I'm in my early 20s, still living at home ...not sure what to do!

Answer: You'd be a fool not to do it now while your still young. Education is the best investment anyone can make whether it's in time or money. You can wait till you have kids and a spouse and juggle the cost of day care with your books. You can wait till you have a mortgage payment and have to work overtime to pay for it. What are you waiting for?

But, you do have to be ready to give a solid effort. Make a list of the things that you will get out of this. More money? Sure. More career advancement? Absolutely!

Make a list of what you'll give up by doing this. Family Dinners? some. Watching American Idol with Mom and Dad? Absolutely!

Good luck with your decision.

Free Online Career assessment tools

2011-06-06T06:08:00.000-07:00

Question: I need some help choosing a career! When I graduated from high school, I started right into an RN program, after a year and a half, I figured out that it wasn't for me so I quit and have been working as a CNA ever since simply because that's the only thing I know how to do.

It's a year later, I'm 21 now and would like to go back to school. My biggest problem is figuring out what field I should go into, I've eliminated nursing but there are so many things that I could do!
I'm not interested in a desk job as I'm a very active woman, that was part of the original draw of nursing. I've been thinking about chef school but I'm nervous about starting into something new without being sure it's what I'm good at...what do you think I should do? Also, do you have any suggestions for other careers that I might research for myself?

Answer:
There are many free online assessment tests that can help you pinpoint the type of career that would work best.

Here are a few.
Interests
O*NET Interest Profiler™
Discover the type of work activities and occupations you may like and find exciting. Respond to 180 work activities by selecting either like, dislike, or unsure. The tool measures six types of occupational interests that can be further explored. View a demo or download the paper version of the instrument and related materials in PDF files for “Desktop” viewing or printing or PDF “Printshop” files for use with professional printing equipment. Adobe Acrobat Reader is required for these downloads.

O*NET Computerized Interest Profiler™
Download the software and User’s Guide to the Interest Profiler so it can be administered by computer instead of using the pencil and paper version.

The Perfect Career Interest Inventory (PCII)
Select work activities which interest you from a list of 252 options. Rate each selection as Strong, Moderate or Weak. Generate a personalized Interpretation Report that identifies your level of interest in 21 major career fields, and a list of occupations to explore that match your interests.

Career Key™
Select jobs that interest you from a list of 42 and answer true, mostly true, or not true, for a series of statements on what you like to do, what your abilities are, how you see yourself, and what you value. A Personal Job Options List will include occupations mostly likely to fit you based on six personality types.
Skills

Skills Profiler
This section of America’s Career InfoNet contains three tools to help with various aspect of your skills. Use the Skills Identifier to build a list of your current capabilities. Use the Skills Explorer to identify and explore specific occupations that use your skills. Use the Gap Analyzer to compare your skills against an occupation you select and to identify any training needs.

ISEEK Skills Assessment
Answer questions about the skills you would like to perform in your daily work by rating yourself on 35 different basic, management, people, system, and technical skills. A list of occupations that are a good match for your skill profile will be available at the end of the assessment.

Self Exploration
Use this set of tools and complete inventories of your Interests, Work Values, Lifestyle Values, Transferable Skills, and Personal Traits. Although they make be completed separately, the more activities completed, the better the picture of who you are. In the Career Planning section, complete the Self Evaluation section and move to Career Exploration and Choosing a Career. Some of these subsequent steps may require information from the inventories you completed.
Work Values

O*NET Work Importance Locator™
Pinpoint what is important to you in a job. Sort 20 cards describing aspects of work into four columns based on how important those aspects are to you in an “ideal job”. The tool measures six types of work values and helps identify occupations that may be satisfying to you based on your work values and characteristics of the occupations. View a demo or download the paper version of the instrument and related materials in PDF files for “Desktop” viewing or printing or PDF “Printshop” files for use with professional printing equipment. Adobe Acrobat Reader is required for these downloads.

O*NET Computerized Work Importance Profiler™
Download the software and User’s Guide to the O*NET Work Importance Locator™ so it can be administered by computer instead of using the pencil and paper version.

Quick Work Preference Inventory
Clarify what you value in terms of work style by completing this inventory. This information can help you make more fulfilling and rewarding career and employment decisions. Within a four column chart, select the option that fits you the closest as you complete the phrase, “I like work assignments which enable me to:...”.
Personality Profiles

Jung Typology Tests
Use this test based on the Jung-Myers-Briggs typological approach to personality to receive your four letter formula type. Choose one of two options for the 72 questions in the inventory. Select the answer based on your most frequent reaction/feeling in the given situation. View specific descriptions of your formula type.

Riso-Hudson Enneagram Type Indicator (RHETI) Sample
Use this sample of the full Riso-Hudson Enneagram Type Indicator to determine your Enneagram type. Answer 38 questions (the full test has 144) by selecting the answer that applies to you. There are nine personality types in the Enneagram and, while there is no guarantee, your highest score can indicate your basic type, or it is likely to be among the top 2-3 scores.

Receptionist looking for a promotion

2011-05-20T05:50:00.000-07:00

Question: I am 37 years old and have never been able to get a promotion.

I am an experienced on air journalist and media manager who is currently working as a receptionist with a Consulate.

I have applied for two promotions since working at the Consulate and even though it is acknowledged that I am over qualified for my position I have been overlooked and the job has been given to someone less experienced.

I am still friends with people I worked with ten years ago and they say I was one of the best but I can't seem to get a break.

What am I doing wrong?

Answer:
Here are some possibilities just going off what you have told me.

You're working outside of your career field. You need to get back into journalism.
Your current employer is not taking your experience seriously because you're working as a receptionist.
Maybe the jobs the you're asking for a promotion to at the Consulate are not asking for your type of experience?

I think you need to find a job in your career field.

Career Change: Flight attendant to office worker

2011-05-16T05:10:00.000-07:00

Question:
I'm 25 years old and I've been a flight attendant for 5 years.. My question is how can I use my experience to get another job not flying, maybe an office job?. Please help

Answer:

When you write you resume, focus on how the customer service skills that you learned will transfer to an office job.

For example, here may be a bullet on your resume that you may use:

• Prepared reports showing places of departure and destination, passenger ticket numbers, meal and beverage inventories, the conditions of cabin equipment, and any problems encountered by passengers.

• Inspected passenger tickets to verify information and to obtain destination information.

Also, have a clear objective statement on your resume as to what you are looking for.

What is an Objective Statement?

Immediately below the top section of a resume where you type your name, address, phone number and e-mail address, should be a short statement with one of the following headings: "objective," "professional objective," or "career goals." Usually the objective statement includes 1-3 lines of text, and should summarize your career aspirations, what you expect from a job and/or what you have to offer to the employer.

An example would be:

Seeking an Administrative Assistant position with a company that will allow me to fully utilize my communication, organizational, and customer service skills

Once you have this Objective Statement you will need to show your communication, organizational, and customer service skills in your experience.

Once you have your resume, start applying for jobs.
Such as these: http://jobs.career-advisor.net/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-%22Administrative+Assistant%22

Good luck. Looking for new job is the hardest job you'll ever have.

Being Fucking Awesome!

2011-05-12T07:41:00.000-07:00

People will tell you that there are all kinds of yardsticks to measure progress.

What they don’t say is that most of them are worthless.

Money, career, fame… whatever. That’s all fine and good, but the bottom line is that there is one thing– just one– that really matters.

Being fucking awesome.

You can be broke and be awesome.

You can be in a wheelchair and be awesome.

You can be homeless and be awesome.

You can even be dead and be awesome.

You want a purpose to your life? I got one for ya.

From this day forth, your purpose is to be the most fucking awesome person you can imagine being.

What kind of friends do you want to have?

What kind of job do you want?

What kind of life do you want to have?

The answer to all of these is simple: you want friends, work, and everything else to be awesome. The more your life is awesome, the better everything is, and the happier you are, whoo!

Seriously, being awesome should be a fucking religion.

There are three– count ‘em, three– standards for awesome. Here they are, in no particular order of bigness.

1. Yourself

Their are times when I think that my life couldn't get more awesome.

First, I make more money then I should. That's the truth.

Second, I have a wife that gets up every day with the sole purpose of making my life and our kids lives perfect. How awesome is that?

Third, My kids work hard at school, their relationships with their friends and general seem to be good caring kids.

But truthfully, I think I am just now realizing how awesome my life is.

Because at 42 I'm starting to realize that HAPPY people understand that to enjoy life you live it -- you don’t think about it.

Anyone can become more awesome. This means you.

But wait, there’s more! What’s great about the world of awesome is that it’s totally subjective. You don’t have to care about the ways I do it, and I don’t have to like yours. The main judge is yourself, and whether you like yourself more than you did yesterday or last year.

If you do, congratulations! You are becoming, or already are, awesome. But here’s the clincher.

This is only true if you are honest with yourself.

There are a lot of people (people in public relations, or something) who claim that maybe their job is awesome. Or maybe guys that make a lot of money and think that they can be in on this love-fest too. Wrong.

For a long time I hated my job as a recruiter although I told everyone that I loved it. That was crap. I hated it because for a long time I let my job consume my life. I didn't have other interests. I literally thought about work or work related matters 24X7. Even if I was not at work, I really didn't get a break from it

Doing something prestigious does not equal being awesome. In other words, awesome does not look the same close-up as it does from far away. Which brings us to the next point.

2. Your friends/peers

Who are the people that you care about, and that you work with?

People who know you are a great judge of whether or not you are awesome, and also, how to become more awesome.

So one of the litmus tests for whether you are awesome is the people around you who don’t believe the hype. Hey, speaking of hype

Your peers, btw, can see things you definitely can’t, or won’t. You’re too used to yourself– this is why you think you’re handsome and that your beer belly “doesn’t look that bad.” (Neither of which have anything to do with being awesome, but you get my point.) Other people will always see you better than you can see yourself.

Do you have people around you that you can count on? Then I suggest you go ask them. Find the most awesome people you know and ask them how.

If you speak to a bunch of people, and they all think you’re great, super! You might be awesome. But, then again, it’s possible that you actually have another problem. See below.

3. Your world

Ok, so first of all, your world is as big as you want it to be, so it’s not important what you choose here, with one condition.

If you are already awesome to everyone in your world, then your world needs to get bigger.

You do this by getting out of the little pond and doing new things, or having a positive influence on people outside of your sphere. You ever notice how people who volunteer (if they’re not self-righteous) tend to be fucking awesome?

I’m pretty sure there’s actually a relationship between how many people you help outside of your sphere and how awesome people inside your sphere think you are. Makes sense right?

Seriously, it’s that easy. You can just decide to become more awesome, whichever way you want, and then look it up on the internet to figure out how. The knowledge automagically makes your world bigger, which makes you more awesome. Then you just go ahead and do that thing, which is easy because you just figured out how. Whoo!

Anyway, what was my point with this? Oh yes. Being awesome is now your new religion. Welcome to the Cult of Awesome. It’s very exclusive, but there are lots of perks.

Your job is now to look out to the wide world, and take a look at what impresses you, at what you find absolutely great, and then find ways to become more like that.

We need more awesome people in this world, and I would like you to be one of them.

Oracle DBA to Management

2011-04-11T07:42:00.000-07:00

Question: I am 30 yrs old ,an oracle database administrator with 5 yrs of experience ,had done my M.B.A in project management through distance education i like to switch to management side,will it be possible....

Answer: Yes. Of course. Your an Oracle DBA with an MBA? It depends on what type of management you want to get into. Look for Oracle DBA positions that will let you strengthen your Project Management skills and push you in that direction. Here are some examples: http://jobs.career-advisor.net/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-%22Project+Manager%22+%22database+administration%22+oracle

Insurance industry career change

2011-03-11T07:05:00.000-08:00

Question: I'm 29 years old, and have been out of college for about 8 years now. I possess a BBA in Business Information Management, and have worked as a business insurance underwriter for about 4 years. I'm considering a change, but feel as though I've blackballed myself from transitioning to another career/industry due to my expertise. Also, another concern is staying within my current salary band with the transition. I'm comfortable with face-to-face interaction, speaking to large groups, and traveling. Quite frankly, I'm seeking a change because I feel so restricted in the office environment especially considering I have an athletic background and even worked in the fitness and retail industries prior to my current career. Considering these things, what industries/careers do you think would meet my interests and provide a lateral financial transition?

Answer:
During a career change, in order to stay within the same general pay range, you should use your past experience to build on. In other words, the position that you change to should be in the same career progression or lateral move for an insurance underwriter.

While I don't see any lateral positions related to underwriting that will provide you the physical activity that the fitness industry would, there are a couple that would get you out of the office more.

Working environments of insurance claims adjusters, appraisers, and investigators vary greatly. Many claims adjusters and auto damage appraisers often work outside the office, inspecting damaged buildings and automobiles. Adjusters who inspect damaged buildings must be wary of potential hazards, such as collapsed roofs and floors, as well as weakened structures.

Some adjusters report to the office every morning to get their assignments, while others simply call in from home and spend their days traveling to claim sites. Occasionally, experienced adjusters must be away from home for days—for example, when they travel to the scene of a disaster such as a tornado, hurricane, or flood—to work with local adjusters and government officials.

Appraisers spend much of their time offsite at automotive body shops estimating vehicle damage costs. The remaining time may be spent working in the office. Many independent appraisers work from home, as continually improving valuation software has made estimating damage easier and more routine. Auto damage appraisers typically work regular hours, and rarely work on the weekends. Self employed appraisers also have the flexibility to make their own hours, as many appraisals are done by appointment.

Some days, investigators will spend all day in the office, searching databases, making telephone calls, and writing reports. Other times, they may be away, performing surveillance activities or interviewing witnesses. Some of the work can involve disagreements with claimants, so the job can be stressful and potentially confrontational. Insurance investigators often work irregular hours because of the need to conduct surveillance and contact people who are not available during normal working hours. Early morning, evening, and weekend work is common.

Median annual wages of wage and salary claims adjusters, and investigators were $55,760 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent earned between $42,400 and $70,860. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $34,140, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $84,260.

Median annual wages of wage and salary auto damage insurance appraisers were $53,440 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent earned between $43,990 and $63,180. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $36,500, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $73,210.

Many claims adjusters, especially those who work for insurance companies, receive additional bonuses or benefits as part of their job. Adjusters are often furnished with a laptop computer, a smart phone, and a company car, or are reimbursed for the use of their own vehicle for business purposes.

The bes job outlook for the future is as an Insurance Adjuster for the Health Insurance industry.

Choosing a Major

2011-03-09T03:45:00.001-08:00

Question: I am having such a hard time deciding what to major in or what I want to do in life.

Answer: If you're having problems choosing a major you need to do some research. Here are some ways to do it.

1. Take a variety of classes as a freshman. Use those general education classes to get a taste of different majors.

2. The Department of Labor web site has extensive information on just about every job. This information includes job description, job outlook, employment statistics, education requirements, etc... The address is http://www.bls.gov/oco/

3. Talk to people that do the job that you may have interest in. Most people would not mind answering some questions about what they do. Some of us are narcissistic enough to actually enjoy it.

Good luck!

Software Engineer looking for the next step

2011-02-27T16:08:00.001-08:00

Question:
I have been a software engineer for over 10 yrs now.. The field is extremely technical, with very little social skills to it, and peers tend to be intraverted, However, I am not like that ; I am social, artistic, and most of my friends are not software people.

Towards what should I evolve? I have become quite acustommed to my six-figure salary lifestyle, and I would be willing to start over a new career if I knew there are great chances that it would lead to a similar salary..

Or maybe I could switch job within the same company, towards maybe marketing or sales? I just don't seem to be good at sales..

thanks in advance !

Answer:
Having spent a decade or so recruiting Software Engineers, I'd have to agree about their introvert nature.

I'm sure you're aware that the software development lifecycle consists of several parts.

These are:
Requirements
Specification
Architecture
Design
Implementation
Testing
Deployment
Maintenance

Some of these steps in the lifecycle require more customer facing. Some require more people interaction in general.

You may want to consider being a Business Analyst doing the requirements gathering. Customers typically have an abstract idea of what they want as an end result, but not what software should do. Incomplete, ambiguous, or even contradictory requirements are recognized by skilled and experienced software engineers at this point. Frequently demonstrating live code may help reduce the risk that the requirements are incorrect.

The role of Business Analyst has evolved from someone who was a part of the business operation and worked with Information Technology to improve the quality of the products and services being delivered by the IT organization to someone who apart from gathering Business Requirements, also assists in Integration and Acceptance Testing, supports the development of training and implementation material, participates in the implementation, and provides post-implementation support. Business Analysts today are also involved in the development of project plans and often provide project management skills when these skills are not available in other project participants.

There is no defined way to become a business analyst. Often the BA has a technical background, whether having worked as a programmer or engineer, or completing a Computer Science degree. Others may move into a BA role from a business role – their status as a subject matter expert and their analytical skills make them suitable for the role. Business analysts may overlap into roles such as project manager or consultant. When focused on specific systems, the term Business Systems Analyst may be used.

A BA does not always work in IT-related projects, as BA skills are often required in marketing and financial roles as well.

The International Institute of Business Analysis provides a certification program for business analysts (Certified Business Analyst Professional or CBAP), as well as providing a body of knowledge for the field (Business Analysis Body of Knowledge or BABOK).

Depending on your location you should be able to get close to six figures. In my area a BA will make 50k to 75k but this not a huge software development area.

Good luck on getting out from behind that computer.

Zig Ziglar Quote

2011-02-16T06:29:00.000-08:00

When we do more than we are paid for, eventually we will be paid more for what we do. Zig Ziglar

Requirements to become a Drug and Alcohol counselor

2011-01-27T06:48:00.000-08:00

Question: What are the requirements to become a Drug and Alcohol counselor? I am a recovering alcoholic/addict with several years of sobriety. I am now interested in becoming part of a team working directly with patients, whether it be inpatient, outpatient, relapse prevention..etc.

Thank you

Answer:

The US Bureau of Labor and Statistics ranks Substance Abuse Counselors as one of the top ten fastest growing occupations through 2016.

Do some research so you can learn what your state's requirements are to become a drug and alcohol counselor. Each state has different requirements and many require certification.
Consider becoming certified. Many states require certification and those that don't will require certification within a few years. There are many certification programs and some are the equivalent of getting an Associate's Degree.
Go to college. While a certification in drug and alcohol counseling may be the equivalent of an Associate's Degree, many states require at least a Bachelor's Degree in psychology or counseling and a few require a Master's Degree in counseling or psychology.
Be prepared for the process to take some time. Many states require, in addition to classroom time, supervised clinical setting time (often for years), and passing a written and/or oral test.

I did a search on Indeed.com for job openings for Drug and Alcohol Counselors. You can see that here: http://www.indeed.com/jobs?q=Drug+and+Alcohol+counselor

Here is a list of some of the requirements that employers listed:

BA/BS Degree in chemical dependency, psychology, social work, counseling, nursing, Crminal Justice or other related field and one (1) year of clinical experience, or;
MA/MS Degree in chemical dependency, psychology, social work, counseling, nursing, Criminal Justice or other related field, which includes a practicum in a health and human service agency, preferably in a drug and alcohol setting.
CAARR, CAADAC, or CAADE certified and registered

Office Experience

2011-01-26T06:16:00.000-08:00

Question: To get a job working in an office environment that requires an individual to have 1 to 3 years of experience working in an office setting even in the entry level positions! For some one who does not have any office work experience that wants to get a job in that area in the workforce, what initial steps do I take to get experience.

Answer: This is an easy one. You should volunteer your services. Does your church have a need for part time office help? What about the local Red Cross? I am sure that there are many organizations that need your help. Once you get the volunteer experience, list it on your resume. You do not have to list that it is a volunteer position but when they ask you in the interview you should say it is. This should get you the interview where your wining personality will shine above the rest.

You can also get office administration training. Your local community college should have some form of this. It could be a short term certification program to an associates degree. This will help you shine above your competition when job hunting.

Transition from Digital Production to Broadcast or Film Industries

2011-01-05T06:54:00.000-08:00

Question: I have been working in digital production for 7 years, but want to move more into broadcast or film. How do I go about doing so? I feel pigeonholed right now.

Answer:

Often the best way to brake into a new industry is to get more training and/or education. This will make you more attractive to hiring managers in those industries. First identify the type of position that you want and then research the education needed to get that position. You find most of those job descriptions here: http://www.bls.gov/oco/home.htm

You can also ask people in the Industry for advice.

Get and advanced degree. Here is some information on what is training or education is needed to brake into Broadcasting:

Professional, management, and sales occupations generally require a college degree; technical occupations often do not. It is easier to obtain employment and gain promotions with a degree, especially in larger, more competitive markets. Advanced schooling usually is required for supervisory positions—including technical occupations—having greater responsibility and higher salaries.
Employees in the radio and television broadcasting industry often find their first job in broadcast stations that serve smaller markets. Competition for positions in large metropolitan areas is stronger, and stations in these areas usually seek highly experienced personnel. Because many radio and television stations are small, workers in this industry often must change employers to advance. Relocation to other parts of the country frequently is necessary for advancement.
News-related and program production occupations. Entry-level jobs in news or program production increasingly are requiring a college degree and some broadcast experience. About 1,300 institutions offer programs in communication, journalism, and related occupations. As of 2008, more than 100 schools were accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications. Some community colleges offer 2-year programs in broadcasting. Broadcast trade schools offer courses that last 6 months to a year and teach radio and television announcing, writing, and production.
Individuals pursuing a career in broadcasting often gain their initial experience through work at college radio and television stations or through internships at professional stations. Although these positions usually are unpaid, they sometimes provide college credit or tuition. More importantly, they provide hands-on experience and a competitive edge for a candidate who is applying for a job. In this highly competitive industry, broadcasters are less willing to provide on-the-job training and instead seek candidates who can perform the job immediately.
Technical occupations. Some technical positions require only a high school diploma or brief postsecondary training. However, many broadcast stations seek individuals with training in broadcast technology, electronics, or engineering from a 4-year college. Because of the increase in the use of digital technology, an understanding of computer networks and software is especially important for potential employees. Supervisory technical positions and jobs in large stations generally require a college degree.
The Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE) issues certification to technicians who pass a written examination. Several classes of certification are available, requiring increasing levels of experience and knowledge for eligibility.
Sales and related occupations. These positions generally require a 4-year degree. As with the rest of the industry, it is easier to begin work in a small station or market and move on to a larger one as experience is acquired.
Management occupations. Station managers should have a 4-year degree and significant experience working at a television or radio station. The administrative staff is extremely varied and will require different amounts of education and training, depending on the job.

You can find out more information here http://www.bls.gov/oco/cg/cgs017.htm

Here is the same information for the film industry:

Formal training can be a great asset to workers in filmmaking and television production, but experience, talent, creativity, and professionalism usually are the most important factors in getting a job. Many entry-level workers start out by working on documentary, business, educational, industrial, or government films or in the music video industry. This kind of experience can lead to more advanced jobs.
In addition to colleges and technical schools, many independent centers offer training programs on various aspects of filmmaking, such as screenwriting, film editing, directing, and acting. For example, the American Film Institute offers training in directing, production, cinematography, screenwriting, editing, and production design.
Promotion opportunities for many jobs are extremely limited because of the narrow scope of the duties and skills of the occupations. Thousands of jobs are also temporary, intermittent, part time, or on a contract basis, making advancement difficult. Individual initiative is very important for advancement in the motion picture industry.
Preproduction occupations. There are no specific training requirements for producers and directors. Talent, experience, and business acumen are very important. An ability to deal with many different kinds of people while under stress also is essential. Producers and directors come from varied backgrounds. Many start as assistant directors; others gain industry experience first as actors, writers, film editors, or business managers. Formal training in directing and producing is available at some colleges and universities and from professional organization.
Screenwriters usually have had writing experience as freelance writers or editors or in other employment settings. As they build a reputation in their career, demand for their screenplays or teleplays increases, and their earnings grow. Some become directors or producers. Although many screenwriters have college degrees, talent and creativity are even more important determinants of success in the industry. Screenwriters need to develop creative writing skills, a mastery of film language, and a basic understanding of filmmaking. Self-motivation, perseverance, and an ability to take criticism also are valuable. Feature-film writers usually have many years of experience and work on a freelance basis. Many start as copywriters in advertising agencies and as writers for educational film companies, government audiovisual departments, or in-house corporate film divisions. These jobs not only serve as a good training ground for beginners, but also have greater job security than freelancing.
Production occupations. Actors usually are required to have formal dramatic training or acting experience. Training can be obtained in acting conservatories, university programs, theatre-sponsored training programs, and independent dramatic arts schools. The National Association of Schools of Theatre accredits over 150 colleges and universities that offer bachelor's or higher degrees in dramatic and theater arts. However, many reputable studio programs offer training on a course-by-course basis or that do not lead to a formal degree. Many professional actors who are between acting jobs obtain additional advanced training through private sessions with an acting coach or by participating in a master class to focus on a particular challenge or to broaden their skills.
Training in singing, dancing, or stage combat, or experience in modeling, stand-up comedy, or acting in commercials is especially useful, and helps an actor stand out among the many resumes being considered. But actual performance credits, even those for performing in local and regional theater productions, can be the most useful in getting into an audition. Many actors begin their career by performing in smaller markets and commercials and working as extras. Most professional actors rely on agents or managers to find auditions for them.
Film and video editors often begin as camera operators or editing-room assistants, cinematographers usually start as assistant camera operators, and sound recordists often start as boom operators and gradually progress to become sound engineers. Computer courses in digital sound and electronic mixing often are important for upward mobility. Cinematographers, camera operators, and sound engineers usually have either a college or technical school education, or they go through a formal training program. Computer skills are required for many editing, special-effects, and cinematography positions.
Postproduction occupations. The educational background of managers and top executives varies widely, depending on their responsibilities. Most managers have a bachelor's degree in liberal arts or business administration. Their majors often are related to the departments they direct. For example, a degree in accounting or finance, or in business administration with an emphasis on accounting or finance, is suitable academic preparation for financial managers.
For top-level positions in marketing, promotions, or general or human resources management, employers prefer individuals with an undergraduate degree in a field related to the department in which they will work, such as degrees in marketing, advertising, or business administration. Experience in retail and print advertising also is helpful. A high school diploma and retail or telephone sales experience are beneficial for sales jobs.
General managers may advance to top executive positions, such as executive or administrative vice president, either in their own firm or to similar positions in a larger firm. Top-level managers may advance to chief operating officer and chief executive officer. Financial, marketing, and other managers may be promoted to top management positions or may transfer to closely related positions in other industries. Some may start their own businesses.

More information about the film industry here: http://www.bls.gov/oco/cg/cgs038.htm