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You Must Convey These Skills During Your Interview

2012-09-22T02:20:00.000-07:00

Now, it's not time to throw your resume in the trash and start a "new age job search. There are many "secret" abstract, often called "soft", skills that employers keep an eye out for. Here we discuss the five key "secret skills" that interviewers examine and how to demonstrate them in an interview situation.

1. ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS

Unless you are applying for a job as a mad scientist, organization is an essential skill for any job. Employers can get sense of how an individual will handle large workloads by how organized that person is during the interview. Moreover, a person that makes a sincere effort to stay organized is an employee that will take a job seriously and make a sincere effort to get things done.

The best way to display these skills:

• Dress professionally and neatly for an interview.

• Keep supplies or materials on hand if you think they might be pertinent to the interview.

This can go beyond pen, paper, resumes, and business cards depending on the position you apply for.

• Organize your thoughts before the interview. Preparation for typical interview questions will reflect a sense of general readiness.

2. CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS

Nobody wants a mindless drone for an employee. If they did, they would buy a robot. Employers want people that can think on their feet and respond. They are looking for people that won't come crying with every little setback. They are looking for problem solvers. Having critical thinking skills means that you can come through in the clutch.

The best way to display these skills:

• Prior to the interview, prepare of a list of anecdotes or previous jobs that required critical thinking to solve a problem. When applicable, bring these examples up in the interview.

• Talk your way through the answers. Let the interviewer understand your train of thought when responding to questions. This can also buy you a little extra time if you are unsure of how to answer.

3. COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Glossophobia, or the fear of public speaking, is the number one fear in America, but making an impact requires these skills. Unless you can communicate ideas to others effectively, you may not come across as very confident. This is precisely why so many employers ask for individuals with good communication skills, often including public speaking.

The best way to display these skills:

• Practice speaking, or answering interview questions in a mirror. This will get you used to speaking aloud and let you see the things you may be doing wrong.

• Practice interviews with another person, so you can learn to keep cool when reacting to another person's comments.

• Stay calm and ALWAYS MAINTAIN EYE CONTACT. It's hard to disagree with a confident person. Once you SEEM confident, you hold all the cards.

4. INTERPERSONAL SKILLS

Along with being able to communicate your own ideas well, you have to be receptive to other ideas and work constructively with them. Companies need versatile team players: people that will work hard on their own and increase the depth and effectiveness of a group effort.

The best way to display these skills:

• As in the case of critical thinking, it is a good idea to prepare a list of examples in which you were part of a successful team effort. These items may not be on your resume, but could come up in an interview.

• When possible, reflect back on cases where you coordinated a team effort. It is one thing to work well in a group, but it is even better when you show that you can also lead and take charge of a group.

• Don't be afraid to mention troubles within a team that you had to overcome. A group of people will not agree on everything 100% of the time. Being able to work through problems and succeed is paramount.

5. MULTITASKING SKILLS

Businesses are always happy to drive down costs, and the best way to do this is by hiring fewer individuals who can multitask. It is often the case that one efficient employee can do the work of two typical employees. Employees are paid for the hours they work, and employers want to get the most out of what they pay. An employee that can complete multiple tasks at once is the solution.

The best way to display these skills:

• When discussing previous positions held, include situations where you worked on multiple tasks at the same time.

• Prepare a list of projects that required you to separate tasks into clusters that could be addressed simultaneously. Be ready to explain the thinking behind your separation system.

• Show a willingness to take on many responsibilities. Any worker can pick up one or two, but if you can pick up more without getting spread to thin, you become a valuable asset.

How You Can Prepare for the New Job Market?

2012-09-20T03:44:00.004-07:00

You may have already noticed: the job market is changing. Forecasters have been predicting this for years, and research continues to prove the contingent--otherwise known as temporary, or contract--workforce, is growing. Author Tammy Erickson writes on Harvard Business Review's blog: "Temporary placement service provider Adecco predicts the growth rate for contingent workers will be three to four times the growth rate among traditional workforces, and that they eventually will make up about 25 percent of the global workforce."

Career expert Alexandra Levit recently reported on technology firm Mavenlink's 2012 infographic, The New Independent Workforce, which shows the number of self-employed, independent service firms, solopreneurs, and temporary workers grew by an estimated 4.3 million workers since 1995. The firm expects the contingent workforce to grow to 40 percent, or 64.9 million by 2020. And by the year 2020, 40 percent of American workers, or nearly 65 million people, will not work in what we know as "traditional" jobs, where they work consistently for one employer who provides benefits and insurance.

What does this new world of work mean for you? Even if you have a traditional job now, you may find yourself in a position down the road where your livelihood depends on your ability to market yourself as a one-person company. The writing is on the wall: the job market and career opportunities are changing--you need to be prepared.

Follow these three tips to get yourself ready for the new job market:

1. Pay attention to trends in your industry. Try to predict hot topics and identify problems organizations will need to solve. Since no one has a crystal ball, this is a tough assignment. Instead of maintaining an insular approach to your job and focusing on your company alone, make a point to spend time evaluating what is going on industry-wide. Join online forums or groups, attend events to network with professionals in your field, and read everything you can in print and online discussing your niche.

When you incorporate this research into your daily and weekly routines, you'll begin to see trends; people will raise the same concerns over and over again, and you will have a head's up about key topics flummoxing your colleagues.

2. Develop niche expertise. When you're really good at something specific, it's easy to make a case for why an organization should contract with you for short- or long-term contingent jobs. It's much easier to stand out from the crowd when you specialize in a particular area and people know you as the go-to expert in your field. Ideally, your expertise will relate to the big problems puzzling people in your industry. Consider seeking additional training--either formal schooling or informal mentoring--to help you learn how to help people with the major problems coming down the pike.

3. Learn to market yourself. The concept of "personal branding," which suggests individuals should think of themselves as a brand and market their skills accordingly, meets skepticism and criticism. But if 25 to 40 percent of American workers will effectively work for themselves in the near future, there is no doubt the ones who land the best opportunities will be those who understand the value of broadcasting their expertise beyond the four walls of their current workplaces. How can you get a head start, so you'll have a chance to be considered an industry expert should you ever need to market yourself as a consultant?

--Learn to introduce yourself and focus on your target's needs. Do you know your unique value proposition, or what makes you special compared to others in your field? If not, it's time to think about what you'd say if someone asked you, "How are you more qualified to do this job than the other 200 applicants?"

--Tap into social networks, which allow you to meet new contacts, demonstrate your expertise, and learn new things. LinkedIn, Twitter, Google+, and Facebook are all great tools to help you showcase what you know and engage with people you'd never otherwise meet.

Don't be complacent; always think about the future and how to position yourself and your expertise if you want to maintain any control over your professional future.

Five Jobs for Internet Users – How to Earn Extra Money Using Internet

2012-09-19T04:12:00.002-07:00

Are you looking for some extra money on internet net? Are you still not sure on how to get legitimate internet job? Are you confused about the offers you get through emails and newsletters? Are you wasting your money here and there on internet? If your answer is “yes” to any question, this article would help you to find out the right job of your choice.

Plenty of jobs are available for internet users. You can make a nice living with online jobs sitting at your home. No investment required for these kinds of jobs. All you need is basic internet knowledge and a computer with internet connection. Some typing jobs may need minimum typing speed.

I will explain the opportunities one by one.

1. Data entry transcription jobs

Data entry transcription jobs are typing jobs you can do from your home. You may require minimum type speed of 45 to 60 words per minute. Data management service companies will provide data to you that you will have to type online and submit to them. You will be paid a decent amount of money for completing this work. General, legal and medical transcriptions are most common types of data entry jobs.

Tip: before applying to these jobs please check your typing speed. Because some companies may ask you to give an online typing test before first assignment.

2. Get paid to take surveys

Taking online survey is another good online work. All you have to do is to share your opinion about products. You will get survey invitation via email. You will be given a link to survey. By clicking the link you will taken to online survey page. You will have to answer questions by simply checking boxes. You can get $1 to $20 for 10 minute survey. You may get more money for lengthy surveys.

Tip: You should have latest browsers like Firefox or internet explorer 8 to attend surveys.

3. Customer care jobs

There are many customer care jobs available to people from different countries and different languages. Many big companies outsource customer care professionals to work from home. You will have to answer to phone calls or emails. You may get many chances to provide customer support through chat too. This is a cool job with nice pay. Get paid for every second you take or chat.

Tip: Good command over the language and good phone connection is important for this job.

4. Freelance writer job

This is an excellent opportunity for people with writing ability. Many companies are looking for writers to write for them on different topics. You can write articles, website content, newsletters and many more. Get paid $5 to $50 per hour depends on the content you write.

Tip: You may get plenty of work. Do not over load your work, because this may affect your accuracy and quality.

5. Get paid to shop

Mystery shopper job is a cool and high paying job. Many people earn up to $300 a day with these jobs. You will have to shop companies and evaluate their staff and their customer relation capacity and knowledge. After shopping you will have to submit an online form with your evaluation and commands.

Tip: Having your own conveyance is preferred by many companies.

I hope you enjoyed this article. One more important thing, you should join any website which provide good database of these kinds of opportunities. This will help you save your time and confusion.

5- Steps to Improve your Presentation Skills during Job

2012-09-15T03:51:00.000-07:00

At some point in your career, you might have to stand up and present to a room full of people. And when you do, you'll find that it's not as easy as it looks. So to help you do it, read these tips and hints to improve your presentation skills. So you've been handed a suite of new projects to manage. What's next? Take these 5 steps to make sure you don't end up working around the clock and pulling your hair out while you're at it.

Prepare with care:

To give a great presentation, you need great preparation. Start, by thinking about your topic and the audience and what they are most interested in. Then list your key points and write down the general structure of the presentation ahead.

If you need to, write down every word that you want to say and memorize it. Experienced presenters don't need to do this. But if you're a little nervous or you're new to presenting, then by writing everything down it will boost your confidence and settle your nerves on the day.

On the day

Take these 5 tips to give a fresh, vibrant presentation:

1. Get a good night sleep beforehand. Eat a healthy breakfast and try and free your schedule, so you're more relaxed going into it.

2. Before you present, spend 15 minutes going over your presentation.

3. Then concentrate on your breathing for 2 minutes. This focuses your thoughts, relaxes you and gets rid of any nerves.

4. Remember, the open and close of your presentation are the most important parts. So put in extra effort here, to make it memorable.

5. If you forget something or make a mistake, then never stop and apologize. Keep going and try and relax. It will soon be forgotten.

Body Language:

It's said that 80% of a successful presentation is about body language, and only 20% is about content. So use these top tips to communicate the right message through your body:

1. Make eye contact with people at all times. Never stare at the ceiling or back of the room as you present, unless the nerves are too much.

2. Appear confident. Use an open stance, stand tall and proud. Smile and let your personality shine. Don't be overly formal.

3. Remember that relaxed body language conveys honesty and openness. So walk around a little and make use of props to hold onto.

4. Vary your voice and use slow, open hand gestures. Never have your hands in your pocket or play with a pen. Move your hands to an open position and then pause for effect.

5. Speak slowly and carefully, but passionately. If you're enthusiastic about the topic, then your listeners will be as well.

Spark Interaction:

Encourage interaction with others during your presentation. By having others talk for a few seconds, it takes the focus off you temporarily, to let you clear your head and focus on the key points ahead. Another trick to clear your head is to pause while your team are reading a slide or considering a key point you've just mentioned.

WILL YOUR RESUME EVEN BE READ?

2012-09-12T04:05:00.000-07:00

Typically a recruiter will present four or five candidates to the manager, so perfecting your resume is critical. "The reality is we have a 'no' pile and a 'maybe' pile, and it takes four seconds to know where it winds up," says Glenn Fox, AOL's former head of recruiting and the CEO of Business Elite, an invitation-only website for senior executives and those who hire them.

Always include metrics that describe your work: How many direct reports did you have? What was your budget? And be sure to mirror your resume to the description of the job you want. If the position is "product marketer" and you've done that kind of work before, actually use the words "product marketing" to describe your experience.

As for cover letters, recruiters and managers are split on how much weight they carry. Some advocate writing only a few compelling sentences, because no one has time to read a drawn-out letter. Others still recommend the traditional format of three or four paragraphs to show off your writing prowess. Kevin Donlin, president of Guaranteed resumes, advises clients to add a PS note at the bottom of a cover letter with a punchy sentence on why you'd be great for the job. People tend to read those out of curiosity.

Clever packaging can only take you so far, though. Peter Cappelli, a professor of management at the Wharton School, argues that since the 1980s there's been a fundamental shift in the way companies hire. As with just-in-time manufacturing, in which companies lower inventory to reduce carrying costs, Cappelli says employers are adjusting to changing markets by plugging in perfectly suited workers from the outside when they're needed, then dropping them when they're done. He calls it the "just-in-time workforce."

That is bad news for job seekers who are hoping to reinvent themselves in this recession. "You're not going to change your career in this downturn," he says. "Nobody's going to hire you and say, 'I know you were in finance, but we're going to retrain you to be in marketing.'" Adds Neil Davies, a Microsoft staffing manager. "If we need five things, in the current market we're not really moving forward on people who have four out of the five."

Sometimes, though, even when you're not perfect on paper, you can make a great case for yourself.

GETTING TO YES

"I have no reason to hire you," said the hiring manager at SAS, the software company, when Pat Bennett walked in for an interview. Bennett, 52, had no background selling technology software. But she pitched herself as a perfect fit in a unit targeting financial services clients. Her last job had been at LexisNexis, handling high-strung attorneys every day. Surely she could deal with hedge fund managers too. In her second-round interview, Bennett gave a presentation showing how she'd approach the business in her first 30 days. She got the job.

In this environment, companies simply can't afford to hope you'll be able to do the job. You need to demonstrate it. "Gone is the time when you could have the first year to prove yourself," says Juliet Flint, a partner at Kleiner Perkins Caufield Byers who advises the firm's portfolio companies on talent and recruiting. "You need to have immediate impact in the first 30 days."

Well before you're hired, there are ways to show off your strengths. The CEO of tech startup AdaptiveBlue said the company just hired an engineer who found three problems in the software he'd be testing before he even came in for an interview.

Michael J.A. Ehrlich, laid off from his job in research equity sales at Oppenheimer, found another clever way to show prospective employers he would bring in new business. He persuaded one former client, a hedge fund, to let him use its office to conduct his job search. The boutique research shop JNK Securities Corp. was so impressed that it hired him less than three weeks later.

If you dazzle a company enough, it might even create a position to make use of your talents. After Chris DeBrusk sold his consulting firm, he started kicking around an idea for a product to help financial services catch any ethical lapses by doing surveillance on their own trading activity. He took his idea to half-a-dozen companies, including Sapient in Boston, where he had worked eight years earlier. His presentations laid out the business opportunity, what kind of revenue upside it could bring, and when. Sapient brought him on in February. "In my experience most firms have open requirements," says DeBrusk. "It's about building the relationship first and then finding the job."

So when you're following up on an interview, don't just send a pat thank-you note. Think about what you learned from the interview and show how it sparked some new ideas about the job. If you're reading an article that seems relevant, send it along with some commentary. "Every so often I would send an article to a vice president to let him know I was thinking about the market," says Sparno. "I'd write, 'Hey, John, interesting article on market dynamics,' just to show him this is a guy who's thinking not just about a job - I'm someone who can think strategically."

Even though the market is brutal right now, the worst thing you can do for your career is to take a job that doesn't fit you. Not only will you not do your best work, but when the recession ends (and it will), you'll be moving in the wrong direction.

"I didn't want any job just to have a job," says Jonathan Kooker, the law school grad, "because then, when people start hiring again in two years, I'd be stuck with experience I didn't want." Sure, he's only 31. He doesn't have kids or a mortgage. But he does have something 12.5 million people desperately want: an employer.

How to prepare for the first job?

2012-09-10T07:19:00.002-07:00

If you are a recent college graduate and you are looking for your 1st job, you will likely garner a higher salary and more specific skills than someone without a college degree…

You are looking for a job for the first time, you may feel somewhat intimidated. Your job goal in this case is to find a position which matches your skill set and other qualifications and also pays a salary you can be happy with. If it provide room for advancement, that’s even better. Otherwise, you will have to look to another company, another job search to move upward.

So, how do you begin your search for that first job?

The first thing to do is to decide exactly what you are looking for in a job. This sounds simpler than it really is as few people sit down and think about their goals and criteria before they begin their career search. Instead, most people go from job to job without ever thinking about their goals, other than financial ones.

By first identifying your goals, you will have a clearer picture of which positions you really want to pursue. Don't neglect to do this – it would be tragic to reach retirement and realize that you never were truly fulfilled in your work life. Find the positions which truly interest you and go for them!

Your first job search should also entail looking into the track records of the companies out there to assess which most closely meet your goals and needs. While you could work for any company and do OK for yourself, you will be much more personally fulfilled working for an organization which is in alignment with your own personal beliefs and values.

Remember that not all companies are created equal – some really are better than others. Talk to people currently employed at the company and find how they feel about their employer.

Do your research and find out how the company ranks in regard to employee satisfaction.

At this point, you know what you want and you have an idea of the kinds of employers for whom you would like to work. What do you do next? When you are looking for your first jobs, the next step is to find out which jobs are available that match your goals. There are a number of ways to do this – and it’s recommended you do all of them. The more you limit your approaches, the less likely you are to find the ideal job.

Where do you look for job openings?

Internet

Networking

Classified Ads

Career Centers at Colleges

Employment Agencies

Direct Employer Contact

The good news is that 1st jobs are easier to come by than high level positions, so you shouldn’t have to look as hard or for as long to find a job that meets your qualifications.

One thing to keep in mind is that the more effort you put into your job search, the more likely you are to end up with a position that makes you happy AND pays your bills.

Three Common Job Hunting Failures

2012-09-07T06:57:00.001-07:00

Some people will tell you that the condition of the economy does not matter when it comes to getting a job. If you talk to them a bit longer, you will find that they were always able to find some kind of work, even during the Great Depression. Were they just lucky, or are they telling the truth? Interestingly enough, my own experiences reveal these people are 100% correct….

As long as there are people in a country, there are going to be services that need to be performed and products that need to be manufactured. Under those circumstances, there are always going to be jobs. That said, there are three things that will prevent you from getting a job, regardless of the economy and your skills. Overcome these three problems, and you will never have to worry about being unemployed.

Failure to Pursue Jobs in Related Occupational Niches
Today, many people that were employed as secretaries and other white collar jobs are returning to college in droves to obtain clinical degrees. While that may be of some use if you legitimately like to work with people, others are going to find it an absolute nightmare. Why waste all of this time when there are plenty of receptionist, medical billing, and medical records jobs open? No matter whether you apply for jobs at outsourcing agencies, work at home transcription venues, or in medical practices, you stand just as much chance of getting those jobs as others with previous experience. The proof? I did the exact same thing in 1997, and got nine years out of it, complete with going from clerk to full manager.

Failure to Find Out if You Can do the Job
The two most dangerous words that pop into your mind when reading a job description are "I can't". What do you mean by that? How do you know you "can't" do a job in a related career cluster if you have never tried? The sad fact of the matter is, you couldn't even tie your shoes before someone taught you. When it comes right down to it, if you are willing to learn, and willing to try, the vast majority of employers will be happy to train you as opposed to take on someone that is jaded about the job and just looking for a paycheck.

Failure to Ask for a Chance
If you don't ask, you will never receive anything that you want in life. That holds true in the arena of job hunting as well. No matter whether you are overqualified, underqualified, or don't know the difference, failing to ask for a job will most certainly result in failure. Think this is just a matter of mindset? Think again. Thousands of men and women during the Depression went knocking from door to door asking for jobs. It didn't matter if it was handyman work, sewing - anything that someone would pay them to do. When you ask someone for a chance, chances are, they may just give you one.

Everyone in America needs to be working at some type of productive job. Even in these horrible times, there is no such thing as a newspaper that doesn't have at least 20 job openings. What is stopping you from calling them today? Think you can't do the job? Think again. Ask them what it takes, and see if you can get an interview. What have you got to lose?

Nine Reasons You're not Getting Hired

2012-09-05T04:15:00.000-07:00

You don't understand. You updated your CV, you're applying to jobs every day, you've cleaned up your digital dirt and you network. Yet here you still are on the unemployment list. What is wrong with employers?
Unfortunately, many job seekers don't stop to consider that the problem might not be employers but themselves. It's a hard concept that most job seekers have trouble wrapping their heads around, but applicants frequently (and inadvertently) display signs that tell an employer that they're not the best fit for the job.

Finding qualified applicants is one of the biggest hiring challenges for employers. Do you lack what they want? Yes, there are fewer jobs and there is more competition, but are you doing everything you can?
Here are 10 reasons why employers might have passed you by.

1. You lie
Any lies you tell in your job search, whether on your CV or in an interview, will come back to haunt you. Everything you tell an employer can be discovered, so it behooves you to be honest from the get-go. If you're concerned about something in your past, invention is not the answer. Use your cover letter to tell your story, focusing on your strengths and accomplishments and explaining any areas of concern if needed.

2. You have a potty mouth
It's certainly tempting to tell anyone who will listen how big of a (insert expletive here) your current boss is, but a hiring manager for a new job is not that person. A recent CareerBuilder survey showed that 32 percent of employers said that talking negatively about current or previous employers was one of the most detrimental mistakes a candidate can make. Find a way to turn those negative things job into positives. If you can't get along with your co-workers, for example, tell the prospective employer that you're looking for a work environment where you feel like you're part of a team and your current position doesn't allow for that kind of atmosphere.

3. You didn't -- or can't -- give examples
Hiring managers want people who can prove that they will increase the organisation's revenues, decrease its costs or help it succeed in some way. If all you give to an employer is a bunch of empty words about your accomplishments, you don't demonstrate how you can help the company. In fact, 57 percent of employers said that the most detrimental mistake candidates make is not providing specific examples in the interview. The more you can quantify your work, the better.

4. You came unprepared
More than half of the employers (51 percent) said that not asking good questions cost candidates a job offer, according to the survey. Plain and simple, do your homework before an interview. Explore the company online, prepare answers to questions and have someone give you a mock interview. The more prepared you are, the more employers will take you seriously.

5. You don't show long-term potential
Employers want people in their organization to work their way up, so it's best to show that you want to and can grow with the company. If you were asked where you see yourself in five years and you gave an answer that wasn't related to the position or company you're interviewing with, kiss your chances goodbye. Ask questions like, "What type of career movement do you envision for the most successful candidate in this role?" It shows that you have envisioned your future at the company.

6. You acted bored, cocky or disinterested
A little enthusiasm never hurt anyone, especially when it comes to a potential new job. Thirty percent of employers said in the survey that the biggest mistake candidates made in the interview was appearing disinterested or arrogant cost applicants the job. Every business wants to put their most enthusiastic people forward with important clients and customers, so acting the opposite will get you nowhere.

7. You were a little too personal
23 percent of employers said that candidates who provided too much personal information in the interview essentially blew their chances at the job, according to the survey. Not only does personal information offend some people, but anytime you talk about topics such as your hobbies, race, age or religion, you're setting yourself up for bias. Though it's illegal for employers to discriminate against applicants because of any of these factors, some will do so, regardless.

8. You were all money, no sense
As a general rule of thumb, you should never bring up salary before the employer does. Doing so is tacky and makes the employer think that you care about the money involved, not about helping the employer succeed. If the topic does arise, however, be honest about your salary history. Employers can verify your salary in a matter of minutes these days, so lying only makes you look bad.

9. You don't have enough experience
Managers don't have as much time as they used to have to train and mentor new employees. The more experience you have, the more likely you are to hit the ground running without a lot of hand-holding. The best way to show that you know what you're doing is to give the employer concrete examples of your experience in a given job duty.

Tips for Writing An Effective Cover Letter

2012-08-18T00:51:00.002-07:00

Always send a cover letter with your resume even if the company has not specified that you should include one. It gives you a chance to tell the company why you are a good fit for the job. It is also a chance to let them know that you have chosen them and that you are not just randomly submitting your resume.

Although a cover letter is meant to help your chances of getting the job, it might hurt your chances if it is not written effectively. Here are some tips for writing an effective cover letter:

1. Make sure there are no spelling errors or grammar mistakes. Typos and grammar mistakes are a sign of carelessness, and that might reflect to an employer the type of employee you are. Be as clear as you can without any distractions.

2. Address your reader correctly. If you know the name of your intended reader, use it. If you do not know who is going to be receiving your resume, do not specifically address the reader. For example, do not state, "Dear Sir," since it just as well might be a woman. You might lose all chances immediately! A good way to address your cover letter is by stating, "Greetings." Keep it friendly, professional, and non-gender related.

3. Show them you know who they are. Do some research about the company before submitting your resume. Let the company know you value their work and that you want to be a part of that. Tell them where you heard about the opened position. Always remember to customize your cover letter EVERY time you send it out. It is a sign of laziness to have a generic cover letter and it is usually pretty obvious when you have one.

4. Tell them why you are the best choice. Be confident. Let your reader clearly see that you know what they are looking for. Point out your skills and experiences that are directly related to what their requirements are. Whatever skills you match, you might want to put them in BOLD font so they will jump out to your reader. Do not go into too much detail; that is what your resume is for.

5. Correct Format. Make sure your cover letter is brief, but just long enough to get across exactly what you want to say. Ideally, it should be only three paragraphs long.

The first paragraph should state the position you are applying for and where you saw the posting.

The second paragraph should state why you are the person for the job. This is where you really need to sell yourself. It's a good idea to use easy-to-follow bullet points to illustrate your skills and experience. Customize this section to what the company is looking for. Do not include irrelevant information; they know what they are looking for so make it easy on them.

The third paragraph should be a quick, powerful closing. Keep it simple and leave them feeling confident about hiring you.

Be sure all your contact information is on BOTH your resume and cover letter. Be sure to include your email address, especially if you are sending it on line.

Remember your cover letter is the company's first impression of you. Be sure there are no mistakes and ALWAYS customize the cover letter to exactly what the employer is seeking. However, keep in mind that there is a good chance your cover letter might not make it all the way to the hiring manager. As important as your cover letter is, do not solely rely on all the information in your cover letter to tell your reader why you are the right person for the position. You must also customize your resume to the job you are seeking as well.

9 Reasons You're Not Getting Hired

2012-08-04T03:08:00.002-07:00

Unfortunately, many job seekers don't stop to consider that the problem might not be employers but themselves. It's a hard concept that most job seekers have trouble wrapping their heads around, but applicants frequently (and inadvertently) display signs that tell an employer that they're not the best fit for the job.

Finding qualified applicants is one of the biggest hiring challenges for employers. Do you lack what they want? Yes, there are fewer jobs and there is more competition, but are you doing everything you can?

Here are 10 reasons why employers might have passed you by.

1. You Lie
Any lies you tell in your job search, whether on your CV or in an interview, will come back to haunt you. Everything you tell an employer can be discovered, so it behooves you to be honest from the get-go. If you're concerned about something in your past, invention is not the answer. Use your cover letter to tell your story, focusing on your strengths and accomplishments and explaining any areas of concern if needed.

2. You have a potty mouth
It's certainly tempting to tell anyone who will listen how big of a (insert expletive here) your current boss is, but a hiring manager for a new job is not that person. A recent CareerBuilder survey showed that 32 percent of employers said that talking negatively about current or previous employers was one of the most detrimental mistakes a candidate can make. Find a way to turn those negative things job into positives. If you can't get along with your co-workers, for example, tell the prospective employer that you're looking for a work environment where you feel like you're part of a team and your current position doesn't allow for that kind of atmosphere.

3. You didn't -- or can't -- give examples
Hiring managers want people who can prove that they will increase the organisation's revenues, decrease its costs or help it succeed in some way. If all you give to an employer is a bunch of empty words about your accomplishments, you don't demonstrate how you can help the company. In fact, 57 percent of employers said that the most detrimental mistake candidates make is not providing specific examples in the interview. The more you can quantify your work, the better.

4. You came unprepared
More than half of the employers (51 percent) said that not asking good questions cost candidates a job offer, according to the survey. Plain and simple, do your homework before an interview. Explore the company online, prepare answers to questions and have someone give you a mock interview. The more prepared you are, the more employers will take you seriously.

5. You don't show long-term potential
Employers want people in their organisation to work their way up, so it's best to show that you want to and can grow with the company. If you were asked where you see yourself in five years and you gave an answer that wasn't related to the position or company you're interviewing with, kiss your chances goodbye. Ask questions like, "What type of career movement do you envision for the most successful candidate in this role?" It shows that you have envisioned your future at the company.

6. You acted bored, cocky or disinterested
A little enthusiasm never hurt anyone, especially when it comes to a potential new job. Thirty percent of employers said in the survey that the biggest mistake candidates made in the interview was appearing disinterested or arrogant cost applicants the job. Every business wants to put their most enthusiastic people forward with important clients and customers, so acting the opposite will get you nowhere.

7. You were a little too personal
23 percent of employers said that candidates who provided too much personal information in the interview essentially blew their chances at the job, according to the survey. Not only does personal information offend some people, but anytime you talk about topics such as your hobbies, race, age or religion, you're setting yourself up for bias. Though it's illegal for employers to discriminate against applicants because of any of these factors, some will do so, regardless.

8. You were all money, no sense
As a general rule of thumb, you should never bring up salary before the employer does. Doing so is tacky and makes the employer think that you care about the money involved, not about helping the employer succeed. If the topic does arise, however, be honest about your salary history. Employers can verify your salary in a matter of minutes these days, so lying only makes you look bad.

9. You don't have enough experience
Managers don't have as much time as they used to have to train and mentor new employees. The more experience you have, the more likely you are to hit the ground running without a lot of hand-holding. The best way to show that you know what you're doing is to give the employer concrete examples of your experience in a given job duty.

Online Job Search - 5 Methods to Find a Suitable Job

2012-07-24T02:49:00.002-07:00

Online job search is quite common these days. In this digital age when everything is going online, the employers, recruiters and job seekers have chosen online platforms to interact with each other…

Internet offers a flexible, dynamic and 24x7-live environment. Finding job online is easy and it saves time as well. In this article I would discuss 5 most used and helpful job searching platforms of the internet.

Use Search Engines:

Search engines are the source of information on the internet for many. You put your query in the search box and search engines fetch few relevant web pages from millions. Use the power of search engines to find a job online.

In your search string, include the industry name, your career skills and add the term 'jobs' at the end. Try different combination of the search phrases to reach to new sites. Use local search engines, or include the name of your city in the search term to get information about local job openings.

Assume you are looking for a career in journalism; search for journalism jobs. And if you are looking for openings in California, modify your search term to make it "journalism jobs California".

Visit Employers' Websites:

If you know who the biggies in your target industry are, just go to their websites and explore the career opportunities with them.

Most companies maintain a section on websites wherein they display current job openings along with job responsibilities. Just check if your profile suits with the requirements; if it does, then express interest. Follow the instructions given on the website.

In case they ask you to send resume, follow resume writing guidelines to prepare your resume. Do not forget to attach a cover letter.

Hit Job Portals:

Visit job search engines, job listing websites, job boards and job banks to check if there is any suitable vacancy for you. Job providers, employers, HR managers and recruiters frequent these boards to post jobs online. Hence these are the good places to find a job in any industry.

Some of the job portals allow job seekers to upload their resume so that they can get offers from employers directly. Upload your resume and subscribe to the newsletters of these job portals to stay informed.

Also, look for some good career advice and career education sites to learn about the industry buzz and modern developments.

Join Social Networks for Professionals:

Online social networks are in the pulse of the day. Join these networks, specify your interests and network with entrepreneurs and recruiters.

There are social networks meant for professionals. Join these communities and keep a close eye on vacancy and current opening section.

Browse Classifieds - Help Wanted Columns

Surf online classified ads and ad listing websites. Visit the help wanted, situation vacant columns for suitable offers. Join their mailing list, if any, to stay informed about latest job openings.

You can follow any or all of the above mentioned online job search methods. Online job searching is the easiest way to find permanent, temporary, freelance or home based jobs in any industry!

10-Strategies for Job Search Success in a Tight Economy

2012-07-23T00:05:00.002-07:00

With graduation quickly approaching we are aware that some of you may still be job seeking. Although the current economic recession is foremost on the minds of anyone seeking employment. Engineering students and graduates are still very much in demand.

However, employers are being more cautious about commitments and the numbers of anticipated hires have been, according to the research, reduced. Here are a few recommendations for those students still looking for employment in this tight economy:

1. Stay Positive!

Although we admit this can be tough, staying positive will help you stay motivated, focused, and ensure you are working on your job search EVERY DAY.

2. Refine and Update your Resume

A well written and visually pleasing resume can make a difference in securing interviews. There may be more experiences to add, completed projects and co-curricular activities to include.

3. Utilize a Diverse Approach

Visit corporate, research facilities’, educational institutions or other employing organizations websites in your area(s) of interest. There are numerous tools on the internet offering employment opportunities. There is a list of Job Search Links and Grad Resources on our website under Job Search Resources to help you get started.

4. Pay Attention to Hot Job Markets

Although generally the job market is cool, there are four areas experts indicate are growing at stronger rates. These include: the U.S. Government, Healthcare, Green Technology and Sustainability, and Information Technology.

Network, Network, and Network! Many jobs are found through personal connections. In fact, your acquaintances are excellent resources to connect you to opportunities. Connect with faculty, staff, family associates, former colleagues and others for the chance to learn about different employing organizations, hiring practices, trends and opportunities.

5. Try Networking Online

Social and professional networking on the internet is becoming increasingly more popular. Having a

strong personal online brand can help you, and goes far in your ability to make and sustain connections. Online networking and marketing tool you can use. If you do not have already register, try to register for a LinkedIn account.

6. Do Your Research

Research the organizations where you’d like to work. Make sure you know their competitors, their major challenges, their financial outlook, their mission, vision, and values. Reviewing their website and checking for recent press releases are means to get current information. If you can, schedule an informational interview with someone who works in a company you want to work for. The interview will provide great information about what they do, and could result in an addition to your network!

7. Effectively Correspond with Employers

Well constructed cover letters, letters of inquiry, and thank you notes are all key tools. Get objective feedback on your written correspondence and always follow e-mail etiquette guidelines.

8. Maintain Accurate Records of Contacts and Follow-up on Job Leads

You are applying for numerous job opportunities so it’s best to track of your job applications. Include the date of application, contact information and a copy of the job description whenever possible. Try creating a Job Log. Oftentimes the hiring process takes several weeks so your follow-up is often essential.

9. Sharpen Your Interview Skills

Spend time reviewing your experiences, formulating responses to typical interview questions and highlighting your unique educational and professional background.

10. Remain Focused

Set and achieve small daily goals, try new strategies, and do something every day towards finding a job!

Important Tips for Technical Interviews

2012-07-11T09:47:00.002-07:00

Technical interviews have evolved over the past five years as certain technical skills, particularly software development and testing skills, has been somewhat commoditized. Interviewers are now looking to assess not only your technical abilities but your ability to think critically, to solve problems, and to work on a team with well defined business goals and objectives.

It is true that, above all else, technical professionals gain or fail to gain employment based on the breadth and depth of their technical abilities and the demand for their specific skills. Increasingly, however, many managers are looking for candidates who balance their technical acumen with a broader interest in and understanding of the business world.

This quick guide provides you with two tips to help you appeal to these managers by weaving business topics into your technical discussions during a technical interview.

(1) Understand (and be interested in) their business

Many interviewers are seeking technical candidates with a seemingly genuine curiosity about their company, their products and services, and their plans for the future. Knowing this, research the organization before your technical interview and know at least the following:

The industry or industries in which the organization operates

* The main product / service lines

* When the company was founded and by whom

* The firm's primary competitors

* The overall size and health of the firm, including revenues, growth and size

* Any major industry news or trends

Armed with this information, accent your interview responses with tidbits about the organization; doing so can really set your answers apart from the typical technical candidates.

(2) Ask questions about how their business decisions impact (and are impacted by) technology decisions

It naturally follows that if you are genuinely interested in a job, a company and an industry, you are going to want to know more about each of them. The best way to express these interests is to enthusiastically ask thoughtful questions whenever appropriate during your technical interview.

It can be difficult to segue from technology discussions to broader business discussions, and you certainly don't want to veer off course or appear evasive- it is, after all, a technical interview. You can, however, skillfully craft questions and responses that exhibit your curiosity about the position and the business, show that you've been paying attention during the interview, and show your technical talents.

And nothing demonstrates your eagerness and inquisitiveness like well-crafted follow-up questions. Here are some sample questions that firmly illustrate your curiosity while relating directly to the technical interview dialogue:

* You mentioned that your company is acquiring another organization this fall and integrating their HRIS into yours. How will this initiative affect the launch of the applicant tracking system on which I'd be working?

* You mentioned your upcoming product launch and its potential impact on your web severs. What was your last major product launch, and did you see a significant affect on system volume then? Did the systems perform well?

How You Can Get the Job You Want

2012-07-06T08:52:00.000-07:00

If you've gone through the utter rejection of losing your previous job, the hunt for a new one can be identity threatening and rejection filled. Depending on your luck and skills, job hunting can tear down the biggest of egos.

Here are three stages in obtaining your next job, the first is to get the interview. You'll find that your cover letter and resume are not just important but critical. It's a myth that people don't judge you by what you send. Everybody does. The reality is an HR professional will scan a resume of seven seconds, if that long. If they don't like what they see, you're gone.

The second stage is once you're called into the interview, convert that interview into an offer. If you can't get an offer, get a hand off or a referral. Third, you have to be able to negotiate what you're worth. You never get what you deserve, you get what you negotiate.

Starting your new job search

By using the Internet, applying to different employment agencies and recruiters, scanning the want ads and working through referrals, you cover the bases of aggressive job hunting. Recruiters can be helpful in that they have corporate relationships in place. "There are two types of recruiters: contingency and retainer. The contingency type gets paid between 15 to 33 percent of what you'll earn after you accept your position. The retainer types are paid in advance. They generally work for highly specialized jobs. What people have to remember is that recruiters don't work for them, they work for the companies that pay them.

Job recruiting Internet sites are good sources in your job hunt. But take note that by putting your resume on the Internet, you're posting your personal information for a world of eyes to see. Learn more about posting your resume on the Net in the article Balancing Risks and Rewards: Putting Your Resume on the Net, which is on this site.

Often, your resume will get you the interview, so it's imperative that it's written by a professional, Referrals are really the bread and butter. The key is to try and reach the decision-maker through the back door by approaching someone who knows someone.

Don't stop with one

Consider sending your resume to multiple employers so that you get as many interviews as possible. Do something everyday for your search. Send out resumes, follow up on the phone to make sure that your resumes have been received but don't be a pest. One call will do.

Those who are unemployed should accept the first offer that comes their way. "You can always jump ship afterwards," he says. "If you get two offers, take them both. Tell company number one that you'll start immediately. Tell company two that you're very flattered however you have a project on the table and you don't feel right just jumping ship. You'll be more than happy to start with them in three weeks. In two weeks, you'll know if company one is right for you. If it is, call company two and say, 'I'm sorry, I decided to stay where I am. Thanks anyway.' If company one is not right for you, call company two and say, 'I was able to conclude my project faster than expected. When can I start?'"

Interview like a jobholder, not a job hunter. Job hunters might come across as needy, dejected and too willing. Too much honesty isn't necessarily a good thing. Being too honest and revealing too much can turn against you in the job hunting process--especially, if you've been laid off or let go. When an employer asks you, "Why did you leave your last job?" or "Why were you let go?" he's really asking: "What's wrong with you?" An example response is: "My company suffered a severe downsizing. My immediate boss had no choice but to let me go and after he let me go, he was let go."

Dress Professionally

Would you hire this guy? Don't come into the interview cocky. Dress professionally. Go after every interview like it's the last one you'll ever have.

Salary Negotiations

In salary negotiations, the person who mentions the number first loses. When they ask you how much looking for, say that you don't want to disqualify yourself by a number, can you tell me how much you have budgeted for this position? You can also give employers a ballpark, saying that your current compensation package is in the $60,000 range and that you want to stay in that range. Lump all your compensation together. By throwing out numbers you might sell yourself short. After all, you don't know the company's range of salary or compensation.

Send thank you letter

Say thanks by sending thank you letters within 24 hours of each interview. If three people interview you at one company, send three separate thank you notes. When competition for a job is tight, thank you notes have the power of swaying an employer your way.

How Should We Handle Staff Conflicts? A Checklist

2012-07-02T10:59:00.000-07:00

Identify the Symptoms

One of the keys to successful conflict resolution is early detection. Typically, the earlier you notice a conflict between employee members the easier it is to settle it.

Look specifically for usual behaviors. Note, for example, if a usually quiet and reserved employee becomes suddenly more abrasive and brash or if a top producer inexplicably becomes lazy and disengaged.

It is vital that you document specific instances of troublesome behavior! Include brief descriptions of each event in a log, and record the time, place and people involved for each occurrence. The purpose of the log is twofold; it's used during the upcoming resolution session and may be helpful in performance appraisal or even as justification for termination if it gets that far.

Identify External Sources

Never dismiss employee infighting as "unavoidable" or "random." There may be external root causes of these conflicts that have more to do with your office and culture than with the individuals operating in it. Those affected are mere victims.

Over-crowded, noisy, or otherwise uncomfortable offices, as examples, are ripe for staff battling. Job insecurity, rampant gossip and discrimination are other culprits.

If you suspect these external sources, address them quickly with executive management and inform your staff, as guided by your supervisors, that you acknowledge the problems and that steps are being taken to correct them.

Conduct a Resolution Session

Confronting employees about unusual or disruptive behavior is never easy, but it's far more challenging if you are unprepared.

Choose a quiet, non-confrontational setting. This typically isn't your office.

Have separate meetings with the affected employees. Mass resolution sessions can be disastrous, and at best are inefficient and emotion laden.

Don't be vague. Site the specific examples you've documented in your log.

Steer the dialogue around the behaviors more than attitudes, and avoid the temptation of giving your opinion about who is right or wrong. Attitudes are impossible to qualify, and attempting to officially document them can get managers in murky legal waters. Stick with behaviors!

Agree on what acceptable behavior is, and agree to have a follow-up session in a couple of weeks to see how he or she is progressing. Draft this "resolution document" with the affected employee, and not beforehand.

Make three copies of your resolution document: one for you, one for the employee, and one for the filing cabinet. Both the employee and you should sign and date the agreement. Email is not appropriate for this type of official record.

What to Do After College: Corporate Ladder Isn't the Only Path

2012-06-27T08:36:00.002-07:00

Many students are so wrapped up in studying that career planning is close to the bottom of the to-do list. But thinking about life after graduation isn't exactly the worst thing you can do. Thankfully, there are many career options. You can go corporate, work for a small business, start your own business, or even purchase one that already exists.

Corporate

Many students choose the corporate path. Large firms often pay generous salaries and come loaded with perks. Employer paid health insurance is still the cheapest form around. And remember these three words: flexible spending account. A flex account is a corporate fund that allows you to use pre-tax dollars for necessary expenses.

And corporations offer a chance to move up the ladder and into a rewarding career. The great corporations are efficient, money making machines and employees are rewarded richly.

Start Your Own Business

Many entrepreneurs have turned into our world's most successful citizens. Entrepreneurs create most of the valuable products and services we love and use every day. (This article was written on a Mac, invented by famous entrepreneur Steve Jobs.) Even moderately successful entrepreneurs live pleasant lives. Here are three steps for small business start up:

Find Your Niche

A successful business fills a need not being served.

Enjoy your business

If you hate going to work or don't have faith in your product you are destined to fail.

Crunch the numbers

Create a solid business plan so you can better understand the potential of your idea.

Buy a business

When working for the man just isn't for you, and you can't think of a reasonable business model, you can always purchase an existing business or franchise.

Buying a business is extremely tricky, and often more costly than starting your own. One way to find a decent business is to contact a business broker. According to start up publisher Entrepreneur.com, a broker will assist you in many of the tough areas. Brokers will prescreen businesses, negotiate terms and guide you through the paperwork.

Whatever your choice, the thing to do is weigh all of your options.

Typical job interview questions and Checklist for the perfect job interview

2012-06-20T10:43:00.000-07:00

Prepare well and stay calm in the face of unexpected questions

Who are you? Where do you see yourself in the future? What are your plus and minus points? Think carefully about how you want to present yourself and what you want to say about yourself, particularly regarding personal matters. Remember you’re in a job interview, not in the confessional! You can prepare in advance for the standard questions such as ‘Why do you want to work for us?’

You can also prepare for the typical questions that an interviewer will ask based on your CV. Try not to bore people with standard answers – and never complain about previous employers. Give yourself plenty of time to understand a question and what may lie behind it before answering. If you’re not sure, ask. And don’t fall into the trap of thinking that you have to have an answer for every question. Be honest and admit, for instance, that you’ve never really considered the intriguing question of who your role model might be.

Turning an interview into a dream job – stay calm, be personable

Keep calm even when faced with the unexpected, such as provocative questions like ‘Aren’t you biting off more than you can chew with this job?’ The interviewer is just trying to prompt you into saying a bit more. Stay objective, talk about your strengths, and don’t forget that they wouldn’t have called you for an interview if they’d thought you were completely unsuitable for the job.

Towards the end of the interview, your interviewer will tell you something about the company and ask you what you already know about it, so you should have researched the basics of both the company and the sector beforehand. You can find out more at this stage in the interview, but avoid annoying the interviewer by asking questions that have already been answered or which are easy to research, such as ‘How many people does the company employ?’ Recruitment experts recommend asking questions about what you will actually be doing, such as ‘Which other employees or departments will I be working with?’

It’s important that the interviewer gets a clear idea of you as a person, so you should be business-like and well informed but also pleasant, smartly dressed and punctual! There’s no single dress code for interviews, but simple elegance will always stand you in good stead. Pay attention to minor details that you think will be hidden, like down-at-heel shoes or coloured socks, and try on your interview outfit at least once in advance. During the interview, pay attention to your body language: don’t be too tense, but don’t be offhand either.

Job interviews around the world

A look at job interview practices around the world reveals there are certainly differences from country to country. Interviewers in the USA value a relaxed, self-confident performance, while those in China and Japan are more likely to react well to modesty.

Interviewers in Asian countries are quite happy to ask personal questions about such issues as marital status, children, health or age. In the USA and Britain, however, such private matters are usually not addressed. In many countries it’s bad manners to ask too early in the interview about the salary. In the USA, China and Brazil, for example, money is not mentioned until it looks likely that a contract is in the offing. In Germany, by contrast, salary negotiations are an integral part of any job interview.

And whether the interview is in Berlin, Boston or Beijing, immediately after it’s over, it’s important to ask the head of HR who will make the next contact, and when.

What Connection You Should Use to Get a Job?

2012-06-18T10:52:00.002-07:00

Most of us know by now that using connections is the best way to find a job. Open jobs are simply so hard to find that our best hope often rests in our friends, neighbors, acquaintances, and even relatives. They hear about the openings before we do…

Many articles tell you how to use your connections to find a job, but few tell you what not to do. Here are seven ways you shouldn't use your connections to get hired:

1. Don’t assume personal friendship transfers to a professional relationship. Maybe it does, but just because you play softball with someone does not mean he can find you a job at his company or properly present you and your skills to the right person. Sometimes it is better for us to present our own skills to the HR manager than have someone who really doesn't know us in this way present them.

2. Don’t make your job-hunting problems the first time you have ever talked about your career or work. You should be sharing your professional life with your contacts well before.

3. Do not trash your last employer or industry. This might be tempting to do, particularly to someone you know, but it is never a good idea. They may shake their head in agreement during the conversation, but they will leave with a negative impression of you.

4. Realize that appearing too insecure, needy, or desperate could change your connection and friendship. Right now, you are seen as equals, this might diminish you somehow. It is well worth that risk when the conversation is handled appropriately.

5. Don't assume preparation is less important. Just because he or she is a “connection” does not mean you can short circuit the process. Come prepared with a list of companies that interest you. Hopefully, your connection can use this as a starting point. In other words, do not expect your connection to do all the work for you.

6. Don’t guilt him into helping you. Chances are, if your connection is a friend, he will already want to do whatever he can to help you. Don’t make him feel guilty when he takes longer than you think he should to make an introduction or two.

7. Don’t force the issue. Trust your connection to know the right way to help you. If he does not think it makes sense for him to insert himself into the HR system at his company on your behalf, let it go.

9-Points to Start Your Own Business

2012-06-17T11:00:00.002-07:00

Running your own business is a rewarding but engaging career and life choice. It demands your time and focus. Start by expecting to live your work until it is established so it can get off the ground. There are many different opinions about how to start a business from researching and writing a detailed business plan to organize it all to just jumping into a passion and trying to make money out of it.

1. Start with your idea

This probably isn't a brand new invention or product. In fact, many successful small businesses have found a way to deliver an existing service or product more efficiently and economically or have customized an existing product or service to fit an opportunity.

2. Put together a business plan

This doesn't require hundreds of pages with thousands of charts. Include research into things like how much you can charge for your product/service, how much it will cost to produce or deliver (include variable & fixed costs) and the size of your potential market (i.e. number of customers). The plan should evaluate your competitors - how many competitors, how strong are they, where are they, how will you compete. The plan should state what is required to enter this market, barriers to entry such as high fixed costs (factories, restaurants) and government regulations that must be met.

3. Determine if you need financing.

Your business plan will include a section on financing. How will you pay the costs to start and run your business? Do you need a bank loan? Use credit cards? Self finance? Also, you'll need to consider how much salary you need to support yourself while starting your business.

Put together your initial marketing plan. Marketing need not cost a fortune. Some businesses require very little. For example, many service businesses such as accounting firms build their practices through word-of-mouth referrals. You can also join free or low-cost associations to build awareness of your small business. Again, your business plan (product, customer, competitor) will help you determine the marketing efforts you need to undertake.

4. Build your infrastructure early

This doesn't mean build a big factory or a fancy office. It simply means keep accurate customer records, a clean set of updated books and a technology foundation, if necessary. One of the downfalls of many small businesses is that they don't know if they're making or losing money (i.e. the need for a clean set of books). Another downfall is when small business owners try to sell their company years later but lack accurate customer history and customer information. Many times, the customers of a small business are its best asset, and, without the records, the small business can be sold only for salvage.

5. Move forward and get started

Once you know you can be profitable take the leap and get started. Besides getting business supplies or advertising, plan ahead by establishing some new business clients ahead of time. If you're business is unlike a restaurant, that physically needs to wait for customers to walk into it's doors, establish accounts ahead of time. In this way, you will have pre-planned future receivables to look forward to. Think about and focus on making money first, where ever possible, instead of spending money. The more money you can bring in, without spending money, the more profitable you are going to be.

How Can You Keep Your Marriage Strong During A Job Loss?

2012-06-14T10:23:00.002-07:00

Having met with many couples who called it quits because financial stressors tore their relationship apart, I have made a point of offering some tips on how to keep the marriage intact through such a rough patch, and more importantly suggest that they use this "professional interruption" as an opportunity to strengthen the relationship. Here are seven ways to keep your marriage strong during dire financial times.

1. Remember your vows

Part of your marital contract you once agreed to love and support one another in "good times and in bad." Believe it or not, I know couples who decide to reinforce this agreement by staging formal or informal vow renewal ceremonies. Putting emphasis on the stipulation that you will hang in there during the bad times certainly helps to reinforce what you signed up for from the get-go.

2. Keep the situation in perspective

A job loss can be temporary. Consider yourself lucky that this unfortunate event is not life threatening. Together, celebrate the fact that one of you is employed and the other employable—a job loss is not a terminal illness.

3. Let your unemployed partner know you will help in the new job search

You can take an active role in many ways: Help your mate update an outdated resume; assist by going through job listings for him/her and make suggestions on which ones might be best to pursue; spread the word to colleagues and others in your professional network who might steer your spouse toward the right job; spend some quiet time alone helping him/her tally up the many skills and talents that might expand new job possibilities. Any one of these efforts will demonstrate that you are in job search mode along with your spouse.

4. Don’t slack off around the house with regard to shared responsibilities

Nothing will bring down a marriage faster in the equal status department than to assume that since your mate is unemployed he or she can tend to all the household duties. Your spouse may offer to pinch hit because he/she is jobless, which is fine but don't let them take on all the responsibility. It may make them feel demoted and contribute to a loss of self-esteem.

5. If you are the person who is employed, cut back on your favorite things that require money

If you are used to playing golf every Saturday, betting on the ponies, shopping at a gadget store, snapping up the latest fashions, or even enjoying lunch out a couple of times a week, call a moratorium on such extravagances. This will also let your unemployed mate know you are conserving funds to help make up for the loss of income. Not mentioning you are cutting back will send an even louder message. Just do it! Your spouse will take notice and thank you.

Five Low Investment and High Profit Businesses

2012-06-12T08:05:00.000-07:00

Office life just doesn't work for some people. So what keeps countless Americans in jobs they hate instead of at the helm of businesses they love? Most of the time, it's the fear of leaving a secure paycheck for an uncertain future. But what these would-be entrepreneurs don't realize is that there are some low-risk business options out there that don't require a six-figure investment. For those who are ready to ditch their 9-5 jobs, franchises offer a tested and affordable business model. In fact, many franchises can be started for less than $50,000.

1. Dry Cleaning Gopher

Keep former office mates looking dapper by owning PRESSED4TIME, a mobile dry cleaning service. With this business, all you need to do is pick up and deliver dry cleaning and shoes for repair from businesses and office buildings. A local plant does the dry cleaning; a repair shop fixes the shoes. Your job is simply to acquire customers and pick up and deliver their clothes.

The investment costs for PRESSED4TIME range from $20,000 to $30,000 with a $21,000 franchise fee. You can keep overhead costs low by working from home. You can go solo with one van or acquire additional vans and staff to expand your business. No previous dry cleaning experience is needed; the PRESSED4TIME home office provides training, arrangements with a local dry cleaning plant, and is available for ongoing advice and assistance.

2. Mobile Pet Groomer

Animal lovers should check out the Hydro-Groom Mobile Pet Wash franchise. With dogs and cats in 60 percent of U.S. households, there is no shortage of four-footed clients in need of grooming. This service is in especially high demand for busy families, senior citizens, and people who are housebound due to illness or a handicap.

The Hydro-Groom mobile unit is a small trailer that is hitched to your personal vehicle. The unit contains all necessary equipment for grooming and washing pets. No grooming experience? No problem. Hydro-Groom provides comprehensive on-site/on-the-job training for all new franchisees and 24/7 support to help you grow your business.

Investment costs for Hydro-Groom run from $15,000-$37,000 and you can run a single or multi-unit operation. Your income level depends on your ability to obtain and retain customers and how well you can keep their furry friends looking great.

3. PosiGrip

Believe it or not, there is money to be made from slippery floors. PosiGrip is a high-profit business that reduces the risks of falls and injuries in the home and workplace with an investment price tag of just $10,000 for franchise licensees. A non-slip tread design is applied to floors, tile, tubs, and showers, making them safer without changing the surface's color or appearance. The customer base for PosiGrip is huge, including malls, hotels, hospitals, offices, homes, restaurants, and airports. Any place with foot traffic is a place with a potential PosiGrip customer.

4. ACE/Security Laminates

Crime can pay—especially if your business involves protecting homes and offices from the bad guys. ACE/Security Laminates is the world leader in security window laminate protection and safety window film. ACE/Security Laminates' protective coatings make glass more resistant to rocks, sledgehammers, baseball bats, and even a bomb blast with over 2500 pounds of explosives.

With rising crime rates and the threat of terrorism, this business can be quite lucrative for a dedicated and determined entrepreneur. Dealership packages start at $25,000; investment costs scale up according to the size of your territory. New owners receive equipment and training as well as ongoing support from company headquarters.

5. SpanishFUN

ÀHabla espa–ol? Like to teach? You may want to consider a SpanishFUN franchise. SpanishFUN is a teaching franchise offering children ages 2-10 introductory second language skills with activities in a relaxed and entertaining atmosphere. Your customer base includes individual kids, youth groups, pre-schools, and childcare centers. Given that Latinos are the fastest growing group in the U.S., fluency in Spanish will be vital to anyone entering the working world.

The best part is that SpanishFUN is one of the more affordable businesses to start. Investment costs run about $12,500 and include an exclusive territory, teaching aids, and in-home training. Classes can be taught in your home or on location. You don't have to be fluent in Spanish to own the business either. You can work alone or hire additional instructors to increase your ability to grow the business.

You can leave your office job behind

With some courage and a modest cash investment, you too can leave your cubicle behind. If you're serious about going into business for yourself but don't know where or how to begin, franchises may offer the perfect opportunity to unleash your inner entrepreneur. To find a franchise opportunity that fits your needs, the International Franchise Association is a great place to start. You may also want to attend a trade show such as the West Coast Franchise Expo and the International Franchise Expo in Washington D.C. for more information on how to start your own franchise.

Apply for Federal Jobs That Provide You good Salary, Benefits and Job Security

2012-06-11T08:52:00.000-07:00

The federal government has projected a 13 percent increase in employment through 2020 and offers good salaries and benefits, job security and flexible work schedules throughout the country. See the best federal jobs:

1. Air traffic controllers
Annual earnings: $113,840
Percent growth: 10.7 percent
Annual openings: 780

2. Criminal investigators
Annual earnings: $73,320
Percent growth: 29.8 percent
Annual openings: 1,160

3. Computer and information research scientists
Annual earnings: $99,730
Percent growth: 19.5 percent
Annual openings: 200

4. Social scientists and related workers
Annual earnings: $75,540
Percent growth: 19.3 percent
Annual openings: 800

5. Accountants and auditors
Annual earnings: $87,730
Percent growth: 11.1 percent
Annual openings: 740

6. Logisticians
Annual earnings: $76,000
Percent growth: 17.8 percent
Annual openings: 730

7. Scientists
Annual earnings: $113,050
Percent growth: 18.4 percent
Annual openings: 120

Apply through the link www.usajobs.gov

Quality Online Degree Can Lead You a Better Job. Consider Before Joining

2012-06-09T08:39:00.002-07:00

Here are six things to consider when looking for a quality online degree program:

1. The reputation of the school.

Is it an institution that provides only online degrees or does it have physical locations as well? Having actual campuses helps to establish credibility. A red flag would be the existence of only a post office box or suite number.

2. The accreditation of the institution.

The Department of Education says that researching the accreditation is essential. Diploma mills are usually accredited by fake agencies. It's important to make sure the accrediting agency is one recognized by the department or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

3. Does the school offer technical help and easy access to speak with advisers, professors and the help desk?

4. How quickly the degree can be earned.

A red flag would be earning a bachelor's degree in just months.

5. Program fees.

Students should pay as they go and be charged per credit hour, rather than per program.

6. The work involved to earn the degree.

Diploma mills require very little work and often take life or work experience into account. Legitimate programs require the same amount of work one would expect attending class on a campus.

No Job in UAE, What To Do?

2012-06-02T02:40:00.003-07:00

It's more like showing up at someone's birthday party uninvited. What would you do? Look for someone you know? You won't be getting a piece of that birthday cake anytime soon. So do you flip a coin and just go to UAE because you have a gut feeling, or do you plan your trip?

If your answer was "Plan", then you have opted to read my multi-layered suggestions. While tracking and sorting messages from our database we concluded that 106 out of our seven figure candidates decided to go to UAE in the year 2011 without securing a job first. Only 30 were successful in getting placements in their preferred work zone. Candidates were a mix from countries such as Canada, USA, Australia, India, Pakistan and the Philippines. They were mid-level management with a degree and an above average risk tolerance. So then why did only 30 secure employment?

Before I answer that question, let's consider the uncertainty factor here. How did they prepare their trip to UAE and find work? Some cashed in their paid vacation days; others relinquished their post, few of them traveled with limited cash in their pockets. Which one of these would best describe you?

None of the above, I hope. Before you decide to go to UAE scraping off your left over leave time and money, you need to be in the "System". With that I mean, you must first be in touch with an employer or have a friend who can refer you to them directly.

Time unquestionably flies when you are in UAE, because its fun. You have places to go, things to buy, beaches to see and all that can gobble some of your leave time. You need approximately 60 days before you can start building a solid lead that can materialize so that you can make headway.

30 out of the 106 did just that. They had friends or relatives in UAE that were contacted ahead of time. They did not call the employers directly, but make sure the employer was somewhat aware of their arrival by having their friends refer their resumes to the Human Resources or hiring manager ahead of time. So let's say you are not one of those fortunate ones to have friends in UAE, and since you are already in UAE now and need help, what do you do?

Let's go back a few steps here and find out what impression does a prospective employer have about you if you intruded up unprepared. Not a good one indeed. You are unprepared (repeated deliberately), you lack the skills to research, and network, and to a sad realization - you might not be getting an interview call either.

Don't start off by dropping resumes to job agencies and companies directly, no hard copies and not floppy disks please. Now-a-days they prefer an emailed resume, since hard copy resumes in UAE are looked upon like vacant land, very few people have them and it's hard to find. You might as well label your resume "Trash Can" before you hand it out to a reception desk. Hard copy resumes are good only if you show up at an interview; this gives the interviewer a second chances to glance through your experience and consider you, and they don't mind having an extra copy in front of them. It also makes you look prepared and keen for the job.

So now you have gone directly to most employers, and you have emailed resumes to addresses on every business card that you nicked off the front desk. You have done your follow up calls diligently. While you are spending the nights pondering your next move or taking advice from family abroad, you must try other avenues, why miss an additional chance if there is one. You should go to hang-out-places, make friends, and start networking.

Elements for A Perfect Resume?

2012-05-31T00:16:00.001-07:00

A perfect resume is a document used as a short introduction of a job seeker before the employer. A perfect resume contains the following elements:

• Complete name

• Complete contact details

• Complete educational history in chronological order

• Set of accomplishments possessed by the candidate

• Details of job history and work experiences

What if the resume is not perfect enough?

If a resume is incomplete or imperfect, the chances of losing the job are increased as the employer is unable to get the complete impression of the job seeker in his eyes. This is essential for a candidate to come up with a perfect resume either created by him or by CV experts to avoid all possible chances of making an incomplete resume.

CV experts have professional resume writing and perfect resume writing capabilities through which they are able to create a perfect resume for job seekers. Such complete resumes are always helpful in attainment of the job.