There are a range of opportunities available to enhance your skill set, and below will list a few of the options available to get started.

1.      Think about what you want to do. Think about what kind of job you want. Gaining skills can be beneficial to develop your all-round employability, but it should be a priority to focus on skills that will benefit your future career.

2.       Pay a visit to a career centre. Career centres are designed to offer advice and direction for those who are seeking to gain employability skills. Once enrolled, you can begin a course which is specific to the skill you require.

3.       Spend time searching the internet. There are a wealth of resources and advice available on the internet that can help you. Online courses are also available and many are free.

4.       Visit your local library. There are a range of books available to help improve skills and employability. Books on skill set development and employability will often have sections which engage the reader in undergoing tasks to develop their skills.

5.       Find out which skills are currently required by employers. By reading up-to-date literature on what businesses are looking for in a person’s skill set, you can stay ahead of the game.

6.       Engage in a typing course. By taking a typing course, you will improve your typing speed an accuracy. This is beneficial to modern day businesses, as most jobs require at least some typing skills. The better equipped your typing skills are, the more productive an employee you will be.

7.       Find out the most popular interview questions. There are some interview questions that will be used in most interviews. Use the internet to research common interview questions, then develop clear, structured and intellectual answers. Next, practise the answers in front of a mirror, a friend or a family member to become confident in your answers.

Most of the options available above are available for free, so there’s no reason to hesitate. Don’t just sit around, waiting for the next opportunity to be perfectly tailored to your abilities; tailor yourself to the job you want!

Are you worried about keeping hold of your job through the recession?  Are you finding that you are constantly worried about getting fired because the economic downturn is forcing your business to make cut backs?

Well, now you shouldn’t have to worry anymore.  Despite the recession there are some sure fire ways to make sure that you get to keep your job while others get the chop.

Making Or Saving

There are two types of employees that will definitely be in the same job when the recession goes away - those that save money for their business and those that make money for their business.  If you fit into one of these categories then you’re golden!

Even if you aren’t in a position to save big bucks for the business then you should still think about how you can do things on a small scale for the business.  For example if you can save money on printing you will get noticed and when it comes to time to get rid of someone on your level you will be that much safer.

Be Indispensible

Don’t hide away from the office, embrace it!  You need to tackle things head on when it comes to projects and activities.  You need to be the one employee who is indispensible so that when it comes time to getting rid of people, you are immediately made safe.

Think about transferring to a more critical area where you can make a difference.  Try and get involved with serious projects where you can take more responsibility.  Do anything to get stuck in…

Are You In The Best Position

Although it might sound like a good opportunity to go from a production role to a junior management role you should stand back and take a look at the economic climate.

If you decide to take the job as a junior manager you may suddenly find that you are getting all the blame for the company going under due to the recession - that’s hardly classed as a successful promotion.

Education

You should think about getting more education under your belt to increase your profit value - by having many more skills in your cap you may have what it takes to beat off the others when it comes to redundancy time.

If you are lucky your company may even have a policy in place of reimbursing employees when it comes to education so check it out.  You won’t be losing anything, you’ll be gaining an employable skill!

Friends

There is nothing more important than your friends when it comes to trying to stay in a job.  You should find out who you haven’t spoken to in a while and then make it an aim to speak to them again.  This way you are staying fresh in everyone’s mind and when you do need a favour you won’t just be springing on them out of the blue.

Keeping your job?

Are you going to be in a job this time next year?  Are you worried?  Let us know…

Networking can be a great way of either looking for a job or getting ahead in your career.  However there is some certain unspoken etiquette involved with networking that should be kept in mind…

Below we list some of the most important aspects of networking etiquette that you should keep in mind if you want to get that job you’ve been eyeing up for the past 4 months…

Know Why

You should be able to identify why you have decided to network - you should know exactly what you want from the experience.  Otherwise you will be wandering the networking scene aimlessly and pointlessly.

Have aims of what you want to achieve and realise connections available to you that you can use to get your to specific employers.

Homework

You should make sure that you know as much as possible about the contacts you network with - you should do your research prior to any communication as you should never be asking your contact any questions about their background and company.  The more you know, the more impressed they will be!

Leave Desperation Out Of It

Any contacts that you meet will be much more willing to help someone who has a positive outlook ad vibrant attitude over someone who is miserable and moaning about the lack of opportunities.

Take It In

Make sure that you take in everything that is being said to you - advice doesn’t always come for free and if someone is taking the time out to supply you with their hard learned advice then you should listen properly.

Don’t forget your manners either - be polite and send your contact a thank you note and try and fit in a hint to show that you were listening to what they were saying.

Respect

You should provide your contact with the appropriate respect needed - don’t just rock up at their office and expect pearls of wisdom.  You should make an appointment and even when on the phone you should ask to make sure the contact has time to talk.  If possible don’t rush into talking business straight away, try and work your way into it with polite conversation.

Small Doses

Don’t ask for everything all at once.  It can be annoying to be asked tons of questions all at once.  Think instead about planning to ask questions in stages to make the whole process easier for your contact.  Don’t bombard your contact, there is always next time to ask more questions.

Permission

The aim of networking is to meet more and more people - however, before using your contact’s name to introduce yourself to someone new, make sure you get permission.  Otherwise you can come off looking foolish and immature as they might not have wanted to be included in your next meet…

Networking Properly?

Are you networking to find a job in today’s troubled economy?  Have you found our advice useful?  Let us know…

How do you know if you are employable?  If you aren’t able to get a job no matter how hard you think you’re trying then that is a bit of a giveaway!  If you find that you are trying to get a job but no matter what you do nothing seems to be working then perhaps the key simply is that you aren’t employable…yet!

Below is a list of some of the main ways to make sure you are employable and finally get that job you want…

Targeted Resume

You have to make sure that your CV is targeted specifically at your potential employer you are applying to.  Your CV won’t be applicable for every single job you apply for so make sure you cater to each and ever position specifically.

Each position will ask for different qualities from their employees so you need to make sure that your CV fits in with what they are looking for.  This will show that you are not only perfect for the position, but that you took the time out to research what they are looking for.

Networking

There can’t be enough said for networking - done correctly it can be a great and fast way of getting work.  People tend to turn to the Internet to search for jobs, but if you make sure that people know about your hunt then you stand a much better chance of finding work.

This can even be done online through social networking sites like Facebook and LinkedIn where you can socialise and networking with other people who know of positions that aren’t being advertised.

Research

You should spend some time researching the company you are applying to work for - if you get in the interview and can’t answer the simple question like what do you know about the company then the potential employer will lose interest fast.

Search online for information about the company and search newspapers and press releases to get a better feel if possible about what message the company portrays.  This will also be a great way of feeling out how smart or casually they dress so you don’t turn up looking like a fool.

Feedback

It is a good idea to get feedback from your mates or family about your interview techniques and CV writing.  Ask someone you trust to go through your CV and make sure that it is as good as possible for the position you are applying for.

Do the same with your interview technique - find out if you come across like a helpless child or an overbearing bully.  This will be an amazing insight into how you come across when you sit in for interviews.

Employable?

Are you employable?  Have you found our advice useful?  Are you going to try and be more employable over the future months?  Leave us a comment and let us know…

You may be worried if you are creeping over 50 that you won’t be in a job much longer - the word over the recent years is that employers are less likely to either employ or retain employees over the golden age of 50.

However, over the coming years this isn’t actually looking like it is going to be the case.  As more and more jobs open up over the coming years, there won’t be enough younger workers applicable for roles and older workers will be in their element.

You need to start realising that your age can work to your advantage - below are a few of the main ways you can turn your age to your advantage and get ahead in your career once again;

Offensive

Being an older worker doesn’t mean you have to feel grateful that you are still in full time employment.  In fact it should be the other way around - you are not an old worker, you are a highly experienced worker - you aren’t passed it, you are it!  You need to make sure that when people see you they are seeing experience and confidence!

You have a powerful tool to your advantage against the younger generations and that is experience and knowledge.  Over the years you have gained a wisdom that just can’t be held by the younger generations so make sure you use it to your advantage.

Forget Age, Think Results

Don’t rattle on to either your boss or your potential employer about how many years you have under your belt - this is just boring…who’s to say these years under your belt weren’t wasted making mistakes and dragging businesses down.

You need to show how you have achieved success over the years you have been working and then you’ll be attracting the attention of the boss!  These results are a true weapon that will beat off the competition…

Focus On The Now

If you are applying for a job, make sure that you don’t rattle on about the different roles you have had over the years - instead focus on what will impress your potential employer and stay relevant.

Over the years you have undoubtedly filled a lot of roles, however only mention the ones that will make you look good for this specific job otherwise you will look like a rambler.  If possible remove any irrelevant roles from your CV and just focus on what will impress the potential employer.

Resume Revamp

You should review your CV and see whether it needs to be revamped.  Think if you would hire yourself for the position if given your CV.  If not then re-work your CV in a way where you would hire yourself.  Get your CV right…

Is Age A Problem?

Are you finding your age holding you away from some employment opportunities?  Has our advice helped?  Let us know…

Are you doing all you think you can do yet still aren’t able to find a job?  Have you been doing everything that you think your mates are doing, but while they are getting work you are left scouring for more jobs?

This either means you are a bin man looking for a job as a CEO or you aren’t doing it right!  Read on to find out what you aren’t doing to get the job that you want…

Networking

If you network you will be opening yourself up to tons more jobs - if your friends, family and previous workmates are all aware that you are job hunting then you stand a much better chance of finding a job than if you simply sent CVs around.

Make sure that you get heard on different social and professional networking sites around the web, like Facebook and LinkedIn and you’ll be increasing your chances many times over.

Online Cover Letter

Many people don’t believe in the online cover letter when applying for a job - this is ridiculous!  If the application asks for you to send in a cover letter then that’s exactly what you have to do.

The cover letter is the best way of separating you from other applicants and provide a good first impression hopefully giving you “The Edge”!!!  A cover letter is a necessity so make sure you send it in…

Generic Cover Letter

There is nothing more off putting for an employer than reading through a generic cover letter - everyone can say that they are a great team worker that is punctual and a fast learner.  When it comes down to it your CV will be thrown to the side with nonsense like that on it.

You need to come up with a shiny new cover letter for each application - this sounds like hard work, but it’ll be worth it if it gets you a job!  You need to show how your abilities will work in this specific position.

Only The Net

Don’t focus your search for work only to the Internet.  This is a great way to get your search started but you won’t find every job available online.  If you want to open up a can full of job opportunities then you should ask around and get in touch with people who will be in a position to give you a hand like human resource managers for example.

Follow Up

You are making a big mistake if you aren’t following up on your job applications - just because you haven’t heard anything doesn’t mean that you have been passed over.  It is possible that your CV didn’t even make it to the boss’s desk for whatever reason.  Follow up the application and keep your CV fresh in their minds!

Can’t Get Employed?

Are you struggling to find a job?  Have you found our advice useful?  Leave us a comment and let us know…

Although you may not see it happening in a recession, you should always be thinking about how to ask for a raise.  You might be hoping to keep your job now, but around the corner, when the recession has left our doorsteps, you should be prepared with a few weapons that will help you get more money.

Start thinking about it now and be prepared to take action as soon as your business starts to look positive again - read on to find out the best way to squeeze more money out of your business and into your monthly pay pack…

Building Up An Argument

If you want more money from your business then you need to provide a valid reason to your boss.  You can’t approach them with the argument that you can’t afford the 25 bottles of champagne you want each month, the reason needs to be valid.

You need to prove that you are deserving of a raise - to do this you need to build up a case that proves that you deserve more money.  Explain all of the responsibilities you have held while in the job and explain how you have managed to aid the business in achieving its goals.

Don’t use vague words and use specific data relevant to your job that shows how you have earned a larger pay packet.  You need your employer to be aware that you are a valuable asset in the business.

Research

You should make sure that you are aware of the average pay packet for people in your position around the country and area with similar qualifications and experience to you.

By doing this you can be sure that you aren’t asking for way below or above what you deserve and you have more of a chance of being taken seriously.

Build A Record

It is a good idea to build a record of your work over time - think about creating a weekly record of your achievements that you can present to your boss proving that you are deserving of a raise.

Nothing will be able to show how well you are performing than a record of your achievements and consistent performance.  Make sure you have as much proof as possible.

Time Is The Key

Don’t just decide to go for a raise and broach the matter with your boss with nothing to back up your request.  You should think about timing and go for it after completing a tricky assignment or important project.

This way you will be asking for a raise with a fresh achievement on your back, which will bolster your chances.  Also, as previously mentioned, don’t think about it in a recession, instead take the time to build up your case!

Gasping For A Raise?

Are you hoping to get a raise as soon as the recession goes away?  Have you found our advice useful?  Leave us a comment and let us know…

When you’re battling through a recession it’s not that hard to lose your job - many businesses are now asking employees to either leave or take a drastic pay cut - while these options are not very nice, sometimes there’s no other way to turn.

However, if you are going to lose your job, you want to make sure you don’t do it in one of the following idiotic ways!  Below is a list of some of the easiest ways available to lose your job so if you are thinking about keeping it try avoiding everything on the list;

Deadline?  What deadline?

Deadlines are in place for a reason - they aren’t guidelines, they are deadlines…if you are given a deadline make sure you don’t fall on the wrong side of it.

Other people, including your boss most likely, are depending on you to get your work in on time so if you let them down you will find your place securely in your bad books.  Once you get a reputation for bad punctuality then you might as well leave…

Surfin’ The Net?

Granted, there is nothing wrong with checking your personal emails now and again throughout the work day - however, social networking has become the latest addiction ripping society apart and some people can’t help but check their Facebook accounts every 3 minutes.

You are being employed to do work, not to Poke your mates when they don’t reply to your status’s.  You should be able to spend a suitable amount of time online for your personal business but don’t let it creep into your work time.

What Should I Do?

You are being hired to fulfil a specific role in the business - if you don’t know what the role is then how can you work properly.  Obviously you are allowed some time to fit in to the role in the beginning of your time in the office, but after a while you should be clear on what is expected from you.

If you find yourself lost in your job after a year then you are definitely doing something wrong - you won’t be able to do your job properly and you will effectively be deemed useless if found out which of course you will be in no time.

How Good Am I?

If you constantly need to be told that you have done a good job and that you are on the right track then you aren’t in the right job…you should really go back to school.

A craving for the limelight shows your boss that you are far more interested in boosting your own career and less interested in being part of a team - what better way to turn your employee off of you?

Looking to stay hired?

Are you hoping to keep your job?  Have you found our advice useful?  Do you do any of the issues listed above?  Let us know…

No matter whether you like to chatter all the hours of the day or you like to keep yourself to yourself then you should remember that there are certain things that should be kept private in the workplace.

Talking too much about the wrong thing will not only give away too much about your private life, but you could also alienate your co-workers who probably didn’t want all the details anyway.  Below are some of the main things you should keep to yourself in the office if you want to stay happy…

Medical History - Although you have to tell doctors and your human resources colleagues your medical history you shouldn’t be telling anyone else.  If you have a medical issue you should remember to keep it to yourself.  If you’re looking for sympathy do it in the park or the café, not the office - people might treat you differently and you can regret you ever mentioned it.

Office Information - Stay away from rumours, they won’t do you any good.  If you get caught spreading an on-going rumour then you will not only look immature but you’ll also look like a bit of a deceptive person and you might even get the sack…

Quitting - Even if you’re thinking about quitting, you should never mention it to anyone.  If your boss finds out that you are searching for another job then they will know that your loyalties for the company are gone and they might get rid of you.  Even worse you can be quietly pushed out by co-workers turning their backs on you and you end up getting no work handed your way - ouch!

Social Networking - Social networking sites like Facebook and MySpace have gotten employees in trouble recently.  Some airline employees slagged off passengers through the networking site while other employees from business have been caught spreading gossip and bad words about bosses and other workers.  Don’t get caught doing this or you’ll be shown the door like the others caught before you!

Heart Ache - As soon as you come in to the office with tears streaming down your face your work life will change - for the worse.  Your private love life isn’t of any interest for anyone else in the office and the only thing you will achieve by including them in it will be to scare them off…

Politics - Leave political debates where they are supposed to be…at home behind closed doors.  Having a political debate with your co-workers will either end up in tears or a fight.  At least you will have a strong dislike with everyone afterwards because they don’t agree with you and vice versa - leave politics out of the workplace.

Keeping your business private?

Are you managing to keep your personal business private?  Have you found our advice useful?  Let us know…

It’s a tough role being a working dad - you want to be able to split your family responsibilities equally with your professional ones, but unfortunately it’s not as easy as all of that.

The whole thing is a balancing act that you need to get right as a working father - fear not because below we’ve provided a few key tips to keep the balance a little healthier than normal allowing you to keep everyone happy.

Communication - We all know that an open dialogue is extremely useful when it comes to communicating with your boss, but the same can apply when communicating with your family.  Keep your family up to speed with the goings on at the office, explaining to them why you sometimes have to stay late for example - they will appreciate it!

Having a strong level of communication between you and your family will work to strengthen your family’s attitude to your work so you can enjoy a few guilt free evenings in the office because everyone will be on the same page.

Family Calendar - It’s a good idea to keep a calendar specifically set aside to list all of the family member’s upcoming events.  This is a great way to avoid booking a meeting on the same day as your son’s sports day for example.

Stay Away - Although you have all these tools now to keep you attached to your office, such as your Blackberry and your email, you should make sure that you close the door on the office for a few hours every night and take the time to spend with your family instead.  They shouldn’t be ignored!

Give as much attention to your family as you do to your work when you’re in the office - you don’t watch TV when you should be working through a project and the opposite goes for your home life.

Meetings - You spend your time making and holding meetings with work mates and bosses in the office - try making and holding a meeting with your kids.  Agree on a time that suits you both where you can play some football, or go to the park and make sure you stick to it!

Family Day - This of course depends on how family-friendly your place of work is, but if you think they welcome families then think about arranging a special family day where people bring in their families.

This is a much needed development particularly in the holiday months when children aren’t in school and parents want to spend as much time as possible with their children.  If you have any hand in the decision making process in your office try and get this happening and you’ll be a hero!

Working Dad?

Are you a working dad trying to get the balance right between home and work?  What do you think of our advice?  Let us know…