Career Opportunities in Banking and Finance

Your decision to have a finance career can be a start of something big for you. According to latest employment and business trends, the growth of the world economy plus the increasing number of people retiring in the next decade will create a demand for finance professionals.

Commercial banking means having an opportunity to work in the areas of financial management, accountancy and auditing, securities, commodities and financial services sales. There's also an opportunity to work in the area of financial and credit analysis since commercial banks are there to provide banking services to individuals as well as small and large businesses and organizations.

People who work in banking and finance are paid well for the work that they do. Four of the fields that many professionals get into include accountancy and tax, Insurance, investment banking and retail banking. Let's talk about each of these.

For people to work in accountancy and tax, you need to graduate and get your CPA or certified public accountancy license. To learn more about what you will be doing, many have to complete an on the job training with a legitimate accountancy firm.

The training period is about three years and afterwards, you can continue on staying with them, working for another firm or going into private practice.

Insurers just like accountants need to be licensed. This varies from state to state so you have to study and then pass the exam. Once you do so, your career may get you to sell property or casually insurance and life or health insurance.

You should also take further classes in the future because although you have your license already, rules change and you have to be aware of them.

Perhaps the biggest challenge selling insurance is deciding whether to work for an insurance company or doing this on your own. There are advantages and disadvantages doing both. When you are employed, you get a basic salary while those who decide to work for themselves can only make money earning commissions when a sale is made. How well you do is entirely up to you.

Investment banking is different from regular banking because you are there to raise capital for a company by issuing shares or bonds. Later on, you may even work with a team that advises companies regarding mergers and acquisitions.

Also under investment banking is capital markets. Here, the professional is tasked with trading bonds stocks and other financial products to increase the portfolio of the client.

But before you get into that, most entry levels personnel start out doing research first about certain companies and who are their competitors. Their information is then passed on to the account managers who will then advice the client.

Lastly is retail banking which many of us are aware of because these are the people we meet in the bank from the teller to the bank manager when we need to deposit or withdraw cash and apply for a loan.

Unlike accountancy or insurance, you don't need to get a license to do this kind of work. You just have to be customer oriented with strong interpersonal and communication skills since you will be dealing with people.

Tax and accountancy, insurance, investment banking and retail banking are the four basic types of jobs for anyone that wants to pursue a banking and finance career after graduation from college. Career progression in any of them is excellent and this can only happen with additional training and at times a license.

This can be achieved by part time study so all you have to do now is weigh your options and then go for it.

About the Author:

Paul Hata is active in various social and community programs.Paul has over 10 years experience in managing a multi-million dollar advertising co.Access 1000s of affordable education,healthcare and jobs here - TradePlanets.com and EarlyPlanet.com

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Creating a Successful Teacher Resume

It's arguably the most important job in the world, but just because you're a passionate, dedicated teacher doesn't mean that you can send in any old resume. You must be able to translate your skills, experiences, and credentials into a document that makes potential employers say, "I want to meet his person!" In fact, you're "teaching" employers about you.  

Structuring for Success

These features must be included on your resume. Put them in the order below to maximize readability.

· Identifying information. Like other resumes, you must include your full name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of your resume. Make sure it's big enough to read easily.

· Objective. This is especially important when applying at large school districts because they receive hundreds of resumes and need to quickly identify which pile your resume should be added to. Many teachers-especially at the elementary level-are certified for a broad range of ages and subjects. If employers can't decide whether you want to teach sixth grade social studies or kindergarten, she may toss your resume and move on the next, clearer resume. Be precise: "Seeking a sixth grade language arts teaching position."

· Teaching experience. Start with your current or most recent teaching experience and work your way back chronologically. If you're a new teacher, your student teaching experience-as well as any substitute teaching experience-will make up this section.

· Education. Again, list this in reverse chronological order, and make sure to include any continuing education or professional development you've participated in. If you're a new teacher, put this section above teaching experience.

· Certifications. You can't teach if you aren't certified,and employing someone who isn't qualified is every administrator's worst nightmare. Make it easy for them by putting your certifications and endorsements front and center. If it's in the works, put the anticipated date of your endorsement.

· Career-related awards. If you've been honored with a Golden Apple teaching award or some other education-centered award during your career, make sure you include it. Outside validation goes a long way with school districts.

· Associations and memberships. List the professional organizations to which you belong. For new teachers especially, these associations demonstrate your seriousness about your career.

The following sections are potential add-ins, depending on your situation.

· Profile. If you're an established teacher, a profile section can help define who you are. Think about your qualities, experience, and skills. Example: "A very creative high school history teacher with 10 years of experience, I'm dedicated to eliciting high levels of classroom performance from every student.

· Other work experience. This is only for new teachers or those with a large gap between teaching jobs. Try to play up the "educational" aspects of any job you list. For instance, if you were a docent at a local museum, emphasize how you taught large groups of people about ancient Egypt on a daily basis.

· College honors. Again, this is primarily for new teachers, though if you were a Rhodes Scholar, you're never too far removed from college to include that tidbit!

· Special skills. Like every other employer today, schools are looking to maximize the usefulness of their teachers. If you're fluent in a foreign language, for example, a small district with no current foreign language offerings may give your resume more weight because they can use that skill, as well as your primary teaching area.

Other Tips:

· Incorporate buzz words. If possible-and if it's true, of course-demonstrate your knowledge of and experience with some of the most popular trends in teaching. Things such as "team teaching" (or learning), "hands-on learning," "whole language," and "inclusion" are going to set off happy bells for potential employers.

· Highlight your innovative spirit. Whatever your teaching experience-even if only as a student teacher-you've had to get creative in the classroom. Include a couple of examples of innovative techniques you've developed that are transferable to a new position.

· Emphasize your willingness to be a team player. Teaching is often collaborative, so if you're able to demonstrate how you've contributed your time and skills for the overall benefit of a school-not just your own students-your resume will outshine most others.

Jason Kay recommends that you learn more job search strategies at JobGoRound.com. Read customer reviews of professional resume writing services, learn the best cover letter tips, and submit your resume for a free resume analysis at JobGoRound.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Kay

Changing Your Career and Becoming an Accountant

Everyone feels at one time or another that it is time to make a career change. Sometimes deciding what the right career path is can be daunting. Doing what you love for a living is a blessing, and everyone should have that opportunity. If you do what you love for a living, you will never work a day in your life.

People make career changes all the time for different reasons. Being bored is one of the main reasons why people leave their jobs. In addition, low salary high expectations could also be a factor. However, making a move to leave your job to find another one should not be a hard decision. Obviously, you are thinking about leaving for a reason, so why second-guess yourself. You cannot find a better job unless you leave the one you currently have. With that being said, there are plenty of career opportunities out there for you. Have you ever considered a career in accounting?

Becoming an accountant will require you to go back to school, but the rewards are well worth it. However, undergraduates and people who took business-related courses can easily transition themselves to a career in accounting. People who took business-related courses can easily shift to accountancy. Some colleges will allow those credits to count towards an accounting degree. Although this may take a little more time, it will be worth it in the end.

When making a career change of this magnitude you need to stay focused and motivated. However, here are some things to consider before you make the move.

1. Ask yourself why you are making the change. Doing this will help make the decision seem somewhat easier -- especially if you have a litany of reasons why you should leave your job. If becoming an accountant is something you would like to do - ask yourself if it is worth going back to school and starting over. Moreover, let us not forget that you must have an inkling for math.

2. Suppose the reason for leaving your job is low salary. Well, an accountancy career can give you a high salary. You see, starting salaries of accountants is usually around thirty-five thousand dollars per year. It increases as years go by. However, always remember that the more qualifications you have the more you will be paid.

3. Talk to people who are currently in the accounting field. You can conduct some research to determine the necessary skills required and how business accounting works. You can also get firsthand knowledge of what the money is like.

Becoming an accountant can change your life forever. If you did not like your job because of boredom, then becoming an accountant will definitely take care of that. Once you are an accountant the adventure never stops, because the number crunching never stops. Enjoy.

For more information about accounting and careers in accounting visit my website: Types of Accounting Careers

Accounting Benefits How to become an accountant

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kyle_Watters

What Are the Best Job Search Engines?

Times are definitely tough economically and many of us have either lost our jobs or are in danger of losing them. Looking for new jobs can be a challenge. Local newspapers seem to have smaller and smaller 'help wanted' sections and rarely carry listings for opportunities that are beyond your local area. The solution could be job search engines.

What are Job Search Engines/Websites?

Job search websites are massive databases of available job listings which can be searched through by job seekers like you. The jobs can be searched in a wide variety of ways, including by location, job title, company name, experience required, field or industry, and more. You can even combine criteria to help you pin down your search more specifically.

These online search engines are even better because they are usually free to use. Many also provide additional services, such as job advice and resume posting for no additional charge.

The Pros and Cons of Job Search Engines

Job search engines have plenty of advantages. For example, you can search through new listings 24/7. You don't have to wait for the morning paper to scour the ads. Plus, employers can post new jobs 24/7 so you're more likely to see fresh opportunities daily instead of in local papers.

Another benefit is the searching capabilities. You don't have to browse through all of the listings to find the ones that are best suited for you. Plus, most job search engines allow you to customize your search requirements and have daily or weekly job updates sent directly to your email so you'll always know when an interesting position becomes available. You can also act faster.

Job search engines also make it easy to apply online which saves you time (your application is delivered instantly to the eager employer) and money (you don't have to print your resume or use a stamp).

Unfortunately, there are some disadvantages. Most of the job search engine databases contain tons of legitimate jobs from well-respected companies but you'll also find quite a few get-rich-quick scams, too.

Another disadvantage is that some job search engines do not keep their listings updated. You're likely to find postings for many ads that were filled a long time ago. That can be frustrating. However, most of the engines do allow you to organize your search by most recently posted opportunities which improves your chances of finding available work.

Choosing the Best Job Search Websites

Currently, the best job search engines available are Monster.com and Yahoo's Hotjobs.com. Both of these sites provide all of the advantages above, plus plenty of extra features such as the free resume posting which will increase your odds of landing a great job. Additionally, these are two of the biggest names in the industry so companies that are going to post their job openings online will most likely do so at either one or both of these sites before anywhere else.

Finally, you're going to find the most search options at these sites and both will email you news about recent postings that meet your specifications. That makes it easier to find a new job even in a competitive market.

Here's more advice on job search engines including information about Monster and Yahoo search engine.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Catherine_Z_Jones

The Olympics and the Job Search

OLYMPICS and JOB SEARCH

I was reading this morning through the blog of Adam Kreek, a member of the Canadian Olympic Row team, when I read about the training that he puts in to get to where he is today. Here is an excerpt from his blog: "The pain experienced while rowing is similar to middle distance running, biking really hard or speed skating. Your legs burn and scream for oxygen, while your lungs wheeze with your heart struggling to transport renewed blood to the complaining body parts. Suffering is the best word to describe how I feel in a race. The after-effects of competition are exhausting. My body aches and I have depressed energy and drive for weeks after the event."

Or, the US Boxing Team who leave the comforts of home for 10 months to train at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs in intense preparation for China.

What does this have to do with job search? Training is a full time job. Job search is a full time job. Similar to Olympic training, it has to be your number one focus. A person can't expect to land a dream job after posting his/her resume on 5 job sites. It has to be worked on daily. The good thing is, there are lots of job search activities you can do without leaving your house, and will keep you busy for hours.

When you get up in the morning, what do you do? Consider putting on nice clothes, not just your sweats. This makes you feel productive and gets you into the job search groove. Check your emails and respond to offers (with monster.com you will get hundreds of those that should end up your junk mail). Let all old acquaintances, family and friends know that you are job searching.

Go to companies you've thought you'd like to work for and research them online. Most companies offer hoards of company information, press releases, employment opportunities, etc. Get to know the companies well. Create a folder with information on the companies you like and organize it alphabetically, by industry, or however you like. When the time comes that you get invited for an interview, you will be armed with an arsenal of information that will impress even the most straight-faced hiring person. Know your stuff.

Join online networking groups like LinkedIn, Facebook, Plaxo, etc. It is a great opportunity to network with old co-workers, friends and strike up conversations with people from companies you would like to work for. The possibilities on these sites are endless.

And, as always, getting out and going to local business mixers and job fairs are excellent ways of getting your name out there. Be prepared and have your resume, references and any other documentation ready to hand out.

Job search isn't something you do once a day for a half hour or hour. It's a full time job. Not only will it keep away the anxiety of not having a job, it will keep you feeling productive while getting your name out there for potential employers to see.

Keep at it, stay the course, be positive, and watch great opportunities come your way!

Erin Kennedy, CPRW

Erin Kennedy is a Certified Professional Resume Writer & Career Consultant, and President of Professional Resume Services.
She is a Nationally Published Writer & Contributor in 8 best selling career books. Erin has achieved the prestigious T.O.R.I. (Toast of the Resume Industry) Award nomination in 2007 and 2008
To get more career-related information and resume writing tips, visit Professional Resume Services at http://www.proreswriters.com
Creative. Powerful. Proven.

Erin is a member of: Professional Association of Resume Writers (PARW), Career Directors International (CDI), Association of Online Resume and Career Professionals (AORCP), Career Professionals Group, and Women for Hire

Check out her BLOG at http://wwwproreswriters.blogspot.com/

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Is Your Job Search Stressing You Out? How to Set Realistic Goals

Have you been in the job market longer than you expected? Are you frustrated because you just don't see as much progress as you would like and because you feel like success-the perfect new job-is eluding you?

There is no doubt that job searching can be stressful. Not only do you have to cope with what often feels like rejection, if you are currently unemployed, financial concerns may be an added stressor. It may not be much better if you are looking for a new job while currently employed, as you are probably trying to juggle too much to do in too little free time, and may also be worrying that your current employer may learn about your job search prematurely.

No matter how you look at it, job searching is stressful!

But, could your beliefs be making your job search even more stressful than it would be otherwise? Let's look at a couple of the most common beliefs that many job seekers hold, and that can cause undue stress.



1. Comparing yourself to others.

Did your neighbor Mary land the job of her dreams after searching for just a week? Does cousin Bob brag that he sent out his resume to 20 companies and got calls for 20 interviews in return?

Every single person is unique. The qualifications and credentials they offer, the experiences they bring to the table, the achievements and results they have produced in the past-every job seeker is different. Also, each situation is different. One industry may be expanding while another is contracting. The economy in one geographic area may be booming while another is declining. Certain professions are more in demand than others.

It is simply a mistake to compare your job search to any other...not even to a colleague with very similar qualifications and goals as yours. You can't compare apples to oranges...you can't even accurately compare a yellow delicious apple to a red delicious apple.

Instead, be willing to let go of the comparisons and see if instead there is a lesson in the other person's job search. While the situation is different, perhaps they used a particular technique that you could adapt to your own search. Comparisons almost inevitably cause unnecessary worry and stress and oftentimes blind you to a lesson that might help you along your path.

2. Holding unrealistic expectations

Sure, it is possible that you could send out your resume Friday and have a job offer Monday afternoon. Anything is possible. But it is unlikely.

It is important to recognize that even the AVERAGE job search often takes months. The traditional rule of thumb is to plan for one month of job searching for every $10,000 of salary you are seeking. Whether or not this is accurate, is debatable. But, what is clear is that job searching often takes time. Just taking a moment to think about the hiring cycle will show you this is true: a company may solicit and collect resumes for an opening over a period of weeks, they then spend another couple of weeks interviewing and re-interviewing candidates, then another couple of weeks conducting reference checks and making a decision. It is the rare job search that will conclude successfully in a time that is shorter than even the typical hiring cycle.

Of course, you have no control over these external hiring processes. All you can control are your own actions. So, if you expect your phone to be ringing off the hook for interviews and you just sent your resume out for the first time last week, or if you expect a solid job offer just two weeks into your search, or if you have other goals or hold other expectation that are not realistic, you are just setting yourself up for disappointment and stress.

So, what is the solution to these faulty ways of thinking?

Goal-setting-realistic goal-setting--is absolutely essential. You need to be thinking all the time about your job search and the goals you've set for yourself. In this way, you maintain awareness and open yourself to recognize and act on opportunities that arise.

While the ultimate goal, obviously, is to achieve your target job, setting this as the goal that you strive for each day and each week can lead to frustration. The actual timing of when you are offered and accept a job is often based on factors that are outside your control. Thus, setting a goal that you will achieve an offer for your target job in 6 weeks, for example, can just lead to frustration and a loss of motivation when six weeks comes and goes without an offer in sight.

While I certainly encourage you to set a job offer that matches your target as your overall INTENTION, as your actual working goals, I suggest that you select goals related to events and activities involved with searching for your new job. To keep your goals manageable and motivating, I recommend you set weekly goals. It's important that you write down your goals on paper.

To summarize, your goals should be:

• Attainable while providing a challenge
• Written
• Specific
• Stated in a positive way
• Manageable
• Measurable and trackable
• Timed with a deadline

Job searching may be stressful, but by resetting faulty beliefs and following some basic, proven goal-setting techniques, you can make it much less so.

Review your goals daily to make sure you stay on track and to adjust your schedule if necessary. To keep yourself motivated, always remember to plan a reward for yourself at the end of the week. This could be spending an evening out with friends, giving yourself permission to spend an afternoon in a hammock reading a novel, or buying a new sweater that you really wanted. Whatever it is, make sure it's something that you enjoy and you will be motivated to work for. It is amazing how successful you will feel-how successful you will know you are-when you begin measuring your success by how much you have accomplished rather than be how much further you have to go!

Want to Use this Article in Your Ezine or Website? You are welcome to as long as you use the following text with it:

Nationally certified resume writer, career marketing expert, and personal branding strategist, Michelle Dumas is the founder and executive director of Distinctive Career Services LLC http://www.distinctiveweb.com Michelle has empowered thousands of executives, professionals, and managers all across the U.S. and worldwide with all the tools and resources necessary to conduct a fast, effective job search. Michelle is also the author of Secrets of a Successful Job Search: 7 Simple Steps to Find the Job You Want In Half the Time found at http://www.job-search-secrets.com

To learn more about her job search products, resume writing services, and career marketing programs, and to sign up for many other free resources, visit her websites.

Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.

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Career Change Success? Here's How to Achieve It

Career change success may seem like an elusive goal sometimes, but the CPR approach can help keep you right on target.

CPR? Commit. Persist. Resist.

Commit

It is essential that you make a firm commitment to yourself that you are going to take changing careers seriously. You may have started in a half hearted way in the past and somehow, the energy has just fizzled out. So here you are, still thinking about it.

The answer is to truly commit.

When you are genuinely serious about something, you often find that you start uncovering new opportunities that you had not spotted before. Because your energy and focus is on your new career and how to get there, rather than on feeling miserable about how stuck you are, you see and take advantage of possibilities that you would not have been aware of before. Just a simple, casual conversation with someone in a coffee shop could lead to a new contact who can help you on your way. Commitment helps you see and grasp these opportunities.

Persist

Keep going. Career change does not happen overnight, even if you are committed. You need to be ready to stick at it. Yes, develop an action plan and follow it. Take advantage of all the new ideas and contacts that you encounter. But realise that it may not be the first one that gives you all the answers you are seeking.

Your career change journey may last several months or even a year or more. Hang on in there and persist with a process of regular, small steps in the right direction. Rome wasn't built in a day, but it was built slowly, brick by brick. If you show the same persistence, you will get the same results. You only fail when you stop trying.

Resist

The temptation to give up is likely to be there hovering in the background from time to time. Resist it! There will be ups and downs along the way. There may be moments when you feel like your goal is still as out of reach as when you started. That is only natural. Allow yourself to have slow days when your progress is limited, but don't let it grind to a halt.

There will be nay sayers around you who claim it can't be done. They will tell you to be wary of all the pitfalls, to play safe. The best thing is to avoid people like this. Surround yourself as far as you can with those who will support and encourage you. People who will celebrate each step along the way and pick you up when you are feeling down. Know that your progress will not be smooth, but above all resist the pull to slip back into that comfort zone.

So if you have started on a career change journey and you would like help to keep you going, why not take a look at the How To Change Careers website http://www.how-to-change-careers.com

Cherry Douglas, Your Career Change Guide, takes you through a step by step process to help you make that career change really happen, including dealing with the moments when your career change motivation takes a dip!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cherry_Douglas

The Most Important Part of Writing a Resume

The Most Important Part of Writing a Resume

 

If you do not have this, it is next to impossible to put together a winning resume. It is called FOCUS. Before even beginning to write, it is vital to know what job you would like to have.

Often, people want to keep their resumes general so that they can be considered for a variety of jobs. This may make sense in theory, but it rarely works. Hiring managers come across so many resumes, that the last thing they want to do is try and figure out where to place someone.

 There is a saying that "when you fit everything, you fit nothing." This does not mean that you are locked into applying for only one type of position. As long as the jobs you want are in the same industry, the same resume can be used with minor, if any, changes.

 However, if you are seeking jobs in very different industries, you may need to think about having multiple resumes. Of course, some things will stay the same: your education, past jobs, and the years you were there. The most important parts, the summary and your accomplishments, will need to be changed.

For example, let us say that you are interested in two jobs: one as an accountant and one as an accounting supervisor. Both are in the same industry, so much of the jargon will stay the same. However, for the supervisory position, you will want to highlight your leadership skills, whereas they are not nearly as important for the accounting job. This could mean putting any supervisory duties near the top of each section, including them in your summary, or mentioning relevant classes that you have taken in management.

Now let us say that you are interested in two very different jobs: you would like to be a kindergarten teacher, but you are also applying for a job as an office manager at an advertising agency. Though this will be your first teaching job, you will want every bit of experience with children on the resume. List this experience under education, volunteer work, and any relevant classes that you may have taken in college. For your office manager resume, all of this can be left off. As far as they are concerned, you have no experience with children, because it does not apply to a position in their office.

It takes some extra work, but the payoff is worth it. The more focused your resume is, the less likely that it will end up in the slush pile. The added bonus to narrowing your focus is that you are much more likely to end up with a job that you will be happy in!

 

About the Author:

Charlotte Weeks is a professional resume writer. She has a background in human resources. Services include resumes, cover letters, and salary histories, and reference lists. For more information, go to: www.weeksresumeservice.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/resumes-articles/the-most-important-part-of-writing-a-resume-534141.html

Career Change - 8 Guidelines For Men on How to Dress For the Job Interview

1. Suit: Dress in a conservative, tailored, good quality, dark blue, gray or muted pinstriped suit. Don't wear bold plaids or stripes.

2. Shirt: Wear a good quality, white or pale blue, button-down shirt that is clean and pressed. Cuffs should show no more than 1/2 inch. Make certain the shirt fits. A tight collar is very uncomfortable. Don't wear faddish styles or cheap fabric.

3. Tie: Wear a conservative, good quality tie that complements your suit. Avoid faddish prints, loud colors, bold patterns, clip-on or bow ties.

4. Shoes: Appropriate shoes are either a loafer or a business shoe that laces. Don't wear boots or tennis shoes. Check the heels and polish the shoes. If you have worn soles don't cross your legs and reveal big holes in your shoes.

5. Socks: Socks should be calf-length and match your suit and shoes.

Watch & Jewelry: Wear a conservative watch. Don't wear jewelry except for a wedding band or a class ring. Don't wear pins or jewelry that are religious or affiliated with societies or organizations.

6. Hair: Hair should be neat, styled, and fairly short. Don't wear faddish cuts.

7. Grooming: Grooming should be impeccable. Eyeglasses should be spotless; fingernails should be cleaned and trimmed. No heavy aftershave or cologne.

8. Briefcase: Clean out your briefcase of everything except what you will need for the interview. If you have a writing tablet inside be sure you have removed pages with writing. If your briefcase is not in good shape, leave it in the car. If you carry your pager and/or phone in your briefcase be sure they are turned off.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Hayes

Career Opportunities as Medical Assistants

Many people are now considering building their career in the medical field.

The medical field is one of the most fast growing sectors these days because of the great demand for excellent health care services brought about by the fact that the country's economy and growth are dependent on good quality healthcare services.

One particularly promising option for individuals looking at opportunities in the medical field is a career as a medical assistant.

Demand for medical assistants are at an all time high as more and more opportunities for quality healthcare outfits are propping up in response to the need of a growing population with specialized needs. A medical assistant will be find a job in a doctor's clinic, in outpatient services, in therapy clinics and any other facility that provides healthcare.

If you are thinking of applying for a job in the medical field, you may want to consider a career as a medical assistant. Below are some helpful information to help you find out more about this job, what it entails and if this is the right choice for you.

Are you cut out to be a medical assistant?
If you at least have a high school diploma, possess a pleasant personality, can stay on top of multiple tasks and can coordinate and organize well then you may just want to consider a career as a medical assistant. This is especially true for people who feel aligned with giving the proper health care and attention that each individual deserves.

It is very important for medical assistants to be compassionate and caring because they interface often with patients and are often the first person that a patient sees upon entering a physician's clinic. This is why coupled with warmth and compassion, medical assistants must also be good communicators. Aside from this, multiple responsibilities that are required of a medical assistant, which is why one must be detail oriented, analytical and loves challenges.

If you feel an affinity and can align yourself with these then a job as a medical assistant is right for you.

What does a medical assistant do?
A medical assistant is the caring face and may serve as the personality behind the atmosphere of a medical or healthcare facility. More specific to the medical assistant's job are administrative and clerical tasks.

It is the medical assistant who arranges appointments, fills out a patient's chart and makes sure that these documents are properly files for easy access and documentation. They also perform a variety of bookkeeping front desk tasks.

Aside from these, a medical assistant may also perform basic in-house facility testing like changing wound dressings, administering injections and such. This is why some medical assistants advance in their career by moving on to being a nurse. However not all do this and many indeed do choose to pursue being medical assistants for many years. This is because they find the job lucrative, stable and fulfilling.

The job of a medical assistant is very important and in fact contributes to the level of success of the care for each patient. By taking care of the details of the medical assistant's job, the doctor and other healthcare professionals are able to concentrate more on their jobs.

If so far you feel that a career as a medical assistant is indeed for you, the next step would be to check out learning institutions that offer training and mentoring for people who want to become medical assistants.

About the Author:

1000s of Career,Employment,Income,Jobs & Recruitment.Click Here -
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Preparing For a Job Interview

An interviewer will concentrate on many aspects from a candidate's personal appearance to their attire and conduct when deciding who to employ. Personal appearance is not only concerned with attractiveness: an individual hygiene and neatness are just as important. Employers wish to employ those candidates who will give their industry a good public 'face'. You should be aware of this fact, especially while you are attending the interview. You should ensure that you are dressed properly, preferably in a suit and that your hair is properly groomed. Certain things are mandatory for you to consider whilst preparing for a job interview:

* Research the company:

This is a vital task when preparing for a job interview. You may choose to search on the internet to explore the company. You should know these important things about the company:

- Company history, products and its establishment

- Company's growth, its size and branches across world or country

- Current news about the company and any significant developments within the company

- Whether the management team is global or national, company goal, its position in world rank and niche in market.

* Research the position for which you are applying:

Study the job description, and all other contacts you have. The company website will also be helpful here:

- what exactly is expected in the job and what will be your position in company

- comments on the job from people who have worked it

- if there are any modifications to the position at all

* Practice the possible questions concerning yourself:

Think professionally and study your resume well. Record all information regarding your educational achievements and any special qualifications. You will need to prepare answers to the common questions so that you know them by heart.

* Be responsive:

Practice these questions by yourself aloud until you are comfortable with them. Be specific when you are answering and give supportive examples that will satisfy the interviewer. Be positive and speak truthfully: at the same time do not go into detail about any past mistakes.

* Attire for interview:

Be aware of what you are wearing, as your first impression is vital. Wear suitable clothing and have a neat hairstyle. Do not apply strong perfume and heavy make up and minimize the wearing of jewellery. Try to look the part.

* Be ready with questions for the interviewer:

In most of the interviews you will be given a chance to ask questions. You should prepare at least one question. Ask logical questions. Your choice of questions will reveal your inquisitive nature as well as your interest in the company.

* What NOT to ask in interview:

While preparing for a job interview you should be aware of the things you should not discuss with the interviewer. Never directly ask about salary and benefits. You will be informed about these concerns if the company shows an interest in employing you.

Ace that Job Interview. Get advice on every aspect of job interviews especially the job interview thank you letter.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ray_James

Job Interview Questions

Quite often it is the case that people meticulously practice answers to job interview questions but still find it tricky to get a job that they desire. People worry because they always seem to end up in a job they did not want. They may have the requisite skills and qualifications but they still seem to squander their chances.

One can prepare for years but your fate may be decided in just few minutes. The major reason as to why a person is unable to get that dream job is because of an inability to convince the interviewer regarding their suitability for the job. One needs to always remember that giving an interview is nothing short of "selling" oneself. There are a number of job interview questions which are normally asked and one should prepare for them thoroughly. The answer, however, should never appear as though it has been rehearsed.

Some of the more common job interview questions are:

"Tell something about yourself."

"What are your educational qualifications?"

'What is the salary that you expect?" etc.

These questions are quite easy to handle, but there are some trickier questions such as:

"Were you asked to leave your last job?"

"How will you manage a person who is senior to you in age but junior to you in the job?" "What would you do if you have to write a report that was detrimental towards a friend?" "Cite an incident where you had to discipline a co-worker."

"How would react if someone junior to you was promoted before you?"

"How would you cope with an arrogant boss?"

"How would you explain complex technical details to a non-technical audience?"

"Recall an incident where you failed to deliver."

"If you were asked to compromise your ethics what would you do?"

"Should you be presented with a better opportunity somewhere else would you leave this job?"

"Would you have any difficulty working with a group that were all of the opposite sex to you?" etc

These types of questions are meant for testing the candidate mettle and presence of mind.

There are a number of questions that have been made illegal. It is illegal to judge a candidates suitability on the basis of birthplace, disability, race and religion and other things which may harm the candidate sensibilities. Other job interview questions are meant to verify the candidate depth of understanding. These questions are based on the candidate educational qualifications, subject knowledge, ability to utilize theoretical knowledge for practical purpose, problem solving skills etc. Quite often a candidate will be given some puzzles to solve. Questions to assess the candidate ability to work in a team are asked. Candidate may be asked to describe an incident where they were required to use their initiative and lead a team.

Questions related to interpersonal skills are also asked. A question such as "How do you handle stress?" is attempting to discover a candidate ability to manage a situation effectively. Sometimes a candidate may be asked their opinion as to whether stress is good or bad for them personally. Whilst a candidate is faced with questions such as these, they must be open minded and speak from the heart.

Visit Job Interview Ace and find advice on every aspect of job interviews including the thank you letter job interview.

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6 Steps to Reccession-Proof Your Career Right Now!

In a challenging economic climate with over 60,000 US jobs lost in June, you definitely have to recession-proof your career. This means that if top leaders of your company are starting to leave and your company is in trouble, you must develop a career safety net. There are two categories in which to focus your efforts: job search tactics and job saving tactics.

Three Job Saving Tactics

(1) Is it time to Transfer?

During a bad economy support positions are usually the first to go, such as human resources, administrative, marketing, public relations and customer service. If you have the ability to transfer within your company to a profit center - think sales, for example - this is a very good area to be in. This group brings money into the company.

(2) Toot Your Own Horn

Be as visible and vocal about your contributions as you can. Do your job and do it really well. Volunteer for committees. Make sure your boss and your boss's boss-knows what you're doing. If your contributions are essential to the company there's less of a chance you'll be the first to go.

(3) Develop Relationships with Power People

This is not sucking up, but just making sure key people know who you are and what you're doing. It helps to have the right allies. Volunteer with a key project, participate in meetings, and come in early, stay late if that's the best way to get some face time.

Three Job Search Tactics

If you have been laid off from a job or decided it's time to look for another job, then do the following:

(1) Have the right mindset

First and foremost, you must have the right attitude, which is to be positive. When you're looking for a job, it's a full-time job. Employers are only looking for positive, not desperate people. Think about it, would you want to hire someone who is begging for the job and who doesn't really having a clear understanding of what the job entails? Jobseekers must have an interest in the job and not express or show the need for money.

(2) Submit your resume

When submitting your resume for particular jobs, make sure your resume reflects skills and experiences that the employer is looking for.

(3) Network now.

The classic mistake is waiting to call all of those long lost friends and former colleagues only when you need something. Make a list of 50 people outside of your inner circle. Check in with them periodically and probably the best way now-a-days is to send a quick email. Staying in touch with your network is an important key to finding your next job. According to a recent survey, 75% of people looking for jobs find one through a network.

(C) copyright 2007 - 2008 Brenda Ferguson Hodges

Brenda Ferguson Hodges is "The Interview Queen". Get her FREE SPECIAL REPORT, Top 10 Career Interview Mistakes and how to avoid them" and her FREE Career Talk weekly e-zine newsletter at http://www.theinterviewqueen.com Note: This article can be reprinted freely on-line, as long as the article and this resources box are included.

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Choosing Your Career While Still in High School

When you are in high school, it is never too early to starting thinking about choosing a career path for your life. Sure, you're embroiled in the everyday things that school is: football games, school dances, friendships, and class projects. But the truth is that high school only lasts for four years. After that, you're in the real world, so to speak, and you'll have to do something to make a living.

Choosing a career in high school might be too much for you to think about, but it can be made easier in many ways. The first thing you need to do is look at what you like to do and what interests you. Do you like tinkering around under the hood of a car? Maybe you should be an auto mechanic. Perhaps writing is what you enjoy. If so, maybe a journalism career is on your horizon.

Almost all of us had a dream when we were children about what we wanted to be when we grew up. Think back to that time when dreams were always attainable. Did you want to be a fireman or an airline stewardess? Does that still pique your interest? We don't have to give up on our childhood dreams just because we've grown up. Consider pursuing that career as a fireman anyway - if that's what you still want to do.

Your school counselor can be a great resource when you are choosing a career path in high school. They have access to many tools you can use including career tests and surveys. School counselors also know about available programs in certain career areas as well as schools of higher education that offer specific training for specific jobs.

That's an important part about choosing a career in high school - what type of training will be needed for the job you are dreaming of. If you want to work in a trade type of job - such as an auto mechanic - you will want to go to a school that can give you the training you need. Some careers require more education than others, so you'll want to decide how much time you are willing to invest in a career. If you are interested in becoming a doctor or a lawyer, extensive schooling is required, but in the end, you'll have a strong career with lots of possibilities.

When you are in high school, choosing a career might seem a little overwhelming, but it's important to plan early so you can realize success later in life. Having a goal is the first step toward having a fulfilling and satisfying career in your adult life. That goal setting needs to start in high school.

Not A Good Writer? Discover The Secrets To Crafting A Well-Written Resume That Will Get You Noticed, Get You Interviewed And Get You Your Dream Job.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christain_Cullen

Tips on Various Methods When Job Searching

You may be astonished to discover that some of the most common job search tactics are unsuccessful for most of the individuals who use them. Ideally, you want to use various methods to contact employers. Some of the most popular resources and methods are:

Contacting Employers Directly

One of the most compelling ways to acquire a job is to contact employers directly, whether you know of an opening or not. First, create a check list for classifying the types of companies for which you'd like to work for. You might classify them by product line, size, growth outlook, or geographical locale.

The next step is to begin working on your resume. Send out your resume with a personalized letter. The letter should be addressed to a specific person, not just to the Personnel Office. After sending your resume and letter wait 2 or 3 days, then call the person you sent it to and let them know why you're calling. Speak with confidence, why you would be a good candidate for hiring, and what kind of position you're interested in.

Networking

Networking is the way of exchanging data, contacts, and services among individuals, groups, or corporations. Networking is a great method for finding a new or better job. Some of the groups and organizations you can contact or attend for carrying out your net working plans are...Industry and Trade Shows...Business Seminars...Conferences...Professional Organizations...

Career fairs is another important job-searching resource. With representatives and hiring personnel from various companies there, provides the opportunity to introduce yourself and have the chance to exhibit your skills and experience.

On-line newsgroups are an excellent place for networking, with discussion groups to suit practically every interest. These group participants generally include human resources agents and hiring supervisor, who lend their know-how by discussing the qualities they look for in employees.Taking part in on-line discussion groups brings a much larger exposure than, say, going to a meeting.

Internet Job Search

The Web is fast becoming the place to look for jobs on the Internet. There are many career resources on the Web that are devoted to job listings, with additional lists spring up every day. The Web has listings for job searchers of all backgrounds. Four of the major and most popular job-search sites on the Web are Career City, Career Mosaic, Job Options, and the Monster Board. Another way to find job listings on the Web is to perform a keyword search in search engine's like Google, or Yahoo. Use keywords like "employment opportunities", "job listings", "careers", or "positions available".

CD-ROM Job Search

Business directories on CD-ROM contain a vast amount of data for anyone searching for a job. Most furnish the same basic information; company name, description, address, phone and fax numbers, e-mail or Web site address, product and financial information. All directories list one or more contacts, so you know exactly whom to call for information or where to send your resume. The following is a list of 11 Databases on CD-ROM.

1. American Big Businesses Directory CD-ROM: This CD-ROM includes company descriptions that list business type, merchandise, and sales data. Available only through libraries.

2. American Business Disc: This CD-ROM contains general data on over 10 million US firms. Available only through libraries.

3. American Manufactures Directory: Lists over 1/2 million manufacturing companies with 20 or more employees.

4. Corp Tech Explore Database on CD-ROM: Lists and describes over 50,000 mostly private firms. It also gives the names and titles of Executives-Administrators, Sales Managers, and Supervisors. Available in many public, college, and university libraries.

5. D & B Million Dollar Database: Furnishes data on over 1 million businesses of numerous firms, listing the number of employees, sales volume, name of the parent company, and corporate headquarters. Also includes the names and titles of top executives. Available in colleges, universities, and some public libraries.

6. Hoover's Company Capsules on CD-ROM: Provides information and profiles of more than 11,000 firms and 30,000 executives. This CD-Rom includes detailed data on the company history and products. Available at public and universities.

Lamar Deane explores JOBS and CAREERS That Matches Your Skills. Visit http://jobs4usite.info/jobs.html for more information on JOBS and CAREERS That Matches Your Skills

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Career Change - Top 10 Interviewing Questions Employers Always Ask

1. So tell me about yourself?

Remember, the interview is about you and you are the expert. Set the stage for success by focusing on your most marketable skills and strengths. Deliver your commercial with natural sincerity and enthusiasm. Keep responses relatively brief (about two minutes or less) and job-related.

2. What are your strengths?

Support your strengths with specific examples, and focus on how you saved time and money or improved sales and service, i.e., Last November I was voted Employee of the Month for outstanding customer service at XYZ Company.

3. What are your weaknesses?

Avoid appearing defensive. Identify a common weakness and turn it into a strength, i.e., Sometimes I become impatient when there are delays out of my control ... but I think wanting to complete the job on time is also a strength.

4. What has prepared you for this job?

Focus on your education, training and work experience. Provide examples of how you have successfully managed similar tasks in the past. Note: Research the company in advance to find out as much as you can about the position. Request a job description and if possible, visit the company before interviewing.

5. How well do you work under pressure?

Assure the interviewer you can handle multiple assignments, and keep your cool. Share an example of how you have managed a stressful situation in the past by being well-organized and having a positive attitude.

6. Do you like being a team player?

Absolutely, teamwork is essential for success. Market your people-skills in terms of how you communicate effectively with an increasingly diverse population. Give a specific example of how your writing, speaking or listening skills contributed to the success of a program or project in the last year.

7. How would others describe you?

This question can be tricky, so prepare by focusing on your key employment traits. Honesty, dependability, and a positive attitude are highly valued today. Remember to put your best foot forward and project a credible image.

8. What do you want to do in five years?

Respond with a plan that outlines steady progress and increasing responsibility, i.e. Everything is changing so rapidly in this field ... but my plan is to continue learning and gaining experience so that one day I can move on to the next level.

9. Why do you want this job?

Position yourself as team-player who can be counted on to do a professional job. Match your education, training and experience to the position. Offer compelling reasons as to why they can't afford not to hire you!

10. Do you have any questions?

YES! Show your interest, enthusiasm and confidence by asking - among other things - about a typical workday, priority projects and on-the-job training. And always let the interviewer raise the issue of salary and benefits first.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Hayes

Are You Still Waiting for Enough Confidence to Make a Career Change?

Changing careers does require some confidence but it is easier to build
then you may think and does not require you to wait around for it to
show up.

"If I only had the guts to change careers I would.  I just don't have the confidence I need.  Changing careers takes a lot of confidence."  As a Life Coach I hear these statements all the time.  Changing careers does require some confidence but it is easier to build then you may think and does not require you to wait around for it to show up.

Confidence is built in three basic ways.  The first is to look  at your beliefs and change the ones that undermine your confidence.  The second  is to gather the information you need right now.  The third way to build confidence is to take action.

We'll start with looking at your current beliefs.  What would you have to believe in order to have enough confidence to change careers?  Perhaps you would have to believe that it is perfectly fine to make mistakes.  Or you might need the belief that you can and will learn what you need to for the next career.  Maybe a belief that you could actually do it and be successful would help you make the change.  Look at your rules for having confidence.  Finish this sentence..."In order to feel confident I must ________."  Are your rules serving you or holding you back?  If they are holding you back then change them!  You made them up so it's your choice whether to keep them or not.

The next way to build confidence is to gather information as you need it.  This is an area where people get stuck because they become chronic information gatherers.  They always feel that they need to know more before taking even the first step.  Learn in action!  It is the fastest way to a career change.  By taking action you will know what you don't know then you can go out and learn it. Learn just enough to take the first step, take action and then learn a bit more.

To build confidence take action.  Break what you need to do into baby steps.   Each of those steps will help you build confidence.  Don't wait for confidence to come to you take the baby steps even when you are afraid.  Make a list of the steps you need to take on your path to a new career or business and start checking them off.  Don't worry that you don't know all the steps...You won't!  Just write down the steps as far as you can see.  As you take action the next steps will become clearer and your confidence will build.

Changing careers does require confidence but you can build it as you go.  Don't wait for it to come to you because it won't.  Instead change the beliefs that are holding you back

, gather knowledge on a "need to know" basis and keep taking consistent action.  Soon you will find yourself enjoying your new career or business and bursting with confidence.

Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com

about the author

Leanna Fredrich helps people discover their passion and build a business or career around it.  She specializes in helping people get over their fears and limiting beliefs quickly and easily so they can create their dreams.  Are you ready to enjoy a career you love?  Get your FREE report "The Top Ten Secrets to Discover Your Passion-filled Work." For your free report go to http://www.LeannaFredrich.com

Career Advice: Understand Your Boss To Advance Your Career

A clear understanding of your boss is essential to career success. This means identifying his strong and weak points, as well as biases and blind spots.

Wise careerists do not leave such an understanding to chance. Instead they conduct an organized analysis and plan of action based on such questions as these:

• What's the boss's background? How did he get to be boss? Earned his way up through the ranks? Nepotism? Qualifications for the position?

• What are the biggest challenges the boss is dealing with? Major goals? Pressures on him?

• Who are his allies and enemies in the organization? Does he reach out to build alliances with others in the organization? Does he zealously guard his turf?

• Is he comfortable and confident in your presence? Does he see you as a threat?

• Does he acknowledge your accomplishments? Does he share credits? How does he react when you receive recognition from others?

• What irritates and angers him? What are his hot buttons?

• Does he delegate responsibilities and authority? Once he gives make an assignment does he back off and let you do the job or is a controller?

• Does he share or conceal information vital to your responsibilities? Does he trust you?

• Does he help you to learn and advance toward your career goals?

• What's the boss's style for providing directions? Makes suggestions? Sells the idea? Dictates? He is vague or specific?

• How does he react when you question his decisions?

• How does he handle stress?

• Does he have major personnel problems? Does he try to get you involved?

• What about his idiosyncrasies? What does he do that irritates you? Pleases you? Disappoints you?

• How does your boss react to bad news? Denies it or tries to correct the problem?

• Does he provide you with regular feedbacks on your performance? Conduct annual compensation reviews?
Does he suggest changes in your performance and style?

• Do you feel free making suggestions for improving your performance and that of the organization as a whole?

• Are you comfortable in discussing your job satisfaction and your ambitions for your career path? How does he react when you seek more responsibility?

• Do you believe he provides an even, well-considered approach to his role as boss? What are his biases and blindspots?

You'll be ahead of the competitors when you use the answers to these and like question to prepare a written profile of your boss, and lay out a plan for utilizing this information to enhance your career path. Do not share your analysis and plan with others.

By: Ramon Greenwood

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For free advice on how to achieve your career goals click here: www.commonsenseatwork.com. You'll receive Ramon Greenwood's free semi-monthly newsletter. You can also visit his Your Blog For Career Advice via this route. Greenwood's www.CommonSenseAtWork.com advice comes from a world of experience, including serving as Senior Vice President of American Express, an entrepreneur, professional director, career coach and author.

What's Your Career Strategy?

As a former employment specialist I found that employment agencies focus on strategies geared toward job placement as opposed to careers.

While counseling job seekers, I conducted several personal interviews with job seekers and found the majority of job seekers were looking for careers, not jobs. Many were interested in becoming entrepreneurs.

Whether my clients were getting ready to retire, wanting to start a entrepreneurial venture, or having difficulty with job placement because of a criminal background they lacked basic career development strategies.

As result of not having a career strategy I have developed a tool to help job seekers start moving in the right direction. I use a simple business model to build a foundation for career development to launch your new career.

1. Vision - Identify what it is you really want to do. This entails exploring your passion, professional purpose, your strongest skills, writing your vision, and mission statement.

2. Commitment - Make a commitment to seeing your vision come true. This entails developing a belief statement that will keep you committed to exploring all the opportunities that are available to you, commit to acquiring the new knowledge needed to succeed at your new career, commit to managing your time, and a commitment to excellence.

3. Confidence - Building confidence entails developing an understanding of what's holding you back, usually overcoming fear. Wether it be situational fear, ego driven fear, or self limiting beliefs. Directing your positive energy at your goals instead of your obstacles, and developing the confidence to access resources you need to achieve your goals.

4. Planning - Using SMART goals to reach research your field of interest, marketing, niche, and target audience for ultimate results.

5. Performance - Developing a system to achieve results, implementation of your systems, mining your data, and adapting your system for improvement.

This is the business model I use for my clients. Give it a shot and see if it works for you. I would love to hear from you . I If you have any question please email me.

Best wishes,

George Hayes

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A Major Obstacle to Career Change - The Fear of Self-Promotion and Selling!

Do you have a great business idea or a new career you would like to build? Many people do and some even start creating their idea. Then they stop. One of the most common obstacles to building a business or career you love is your beliefs about selling and promoting.

Whether you are creating a business or building a career, you will have to sell. You will either be selling a product or service or promoting your own abilities and accomplishments. There is no way to get around it...you must learn to sell.

There are many limiting beliefs keeping us from whole heartedly promoting our business or ourselves. Many of us hold the belief that selling is a negative activity. We believe sales people are pushy, uncaring and annoying. There are many beliefs around the idea that it is "bragging" to talk about our achievements. People should just notice how great we are! Of coarse that rarely happens.

Since you can't be successful and refuse to self-promote or sell then perhaps it is time to change your beliefs around selling. How would it change your attitude if you truly believed that you have something wonderful to share with others? What if you believed that you could promote your business in a way that showed you cared about the success of others? What if you believed that in the process of promoting yourself or your business you could make wonderful friendships and business collaborations?

It all starts with our beliefs which then translate into the attitudes we hold and how we share with others. If you think about it you can probably remember someone who sold you something or offered you a service in a way that felt good. In fact you felt better after they talked to you then before. That is how you want to sell.

Along with changing your beliefs to supportive beliefs around selling it is also time to take a look at how you like to sell. Where do your strengths lie? I found that I loved to show the value of my business through offering workshops. I enjoy leading workshops and talking about my business came naturally in that environment. Others like to get involved in volunteering and in the process share with people what they do for work. Some people thrive on meeting people through networking. Many like to market over the Internet. Some people even enjoy cold calling! Experiment for yourself and find the marketing venue that fits you and your strengths.

As you think about your resistance to promoting your business or yourself make a list of fears and limiting beliefs that come up. When you have your list write an opposite powerful belief to replace it with. Don't let the fear of marketing keep you from the career or business of your dreams. Remember that whatever you have to offer is your unique gift to the world so give it!

Leanna Fredrich works with professional and executive women in the 2nd half of their careers who are burned out and don't know what to do next. She helps them "go from burned-out to fired up" by finding meaningful and passion-filled work. Are you ready to enjoy a career you love? Get the FREE report "The Top Ten Secret's to Discover Your Passion-filled Work." For your free report go to http://www.LeannaFredrich.com

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Career Aptitude Test Pass Your Career Aptitude Test And Land The Job

Some 40% of employers now use some form of career aptitude test as part of their employee selection process and this number appears to be rising.

This is because employers recognise that choosing candidates on the basis of a job interview only is very subjective. They know that it’s not always the most suitable candidate who performs best in the interview and making a recruitment decision based on 45 minutes is not ideal.

So many choose to base their recruitment decisions on selection test results as well as a job interview to add an element of objectivity to the decision making.

But some employers use a career aptitude test as a way to select candidates for job interview. In this case, employers review resumes and CVs as usual, choose suitable candidates, put them through testing and invite only those who do well in the selection tests for an interview.

Your potential employer may do either or may not do job testing at all – you can always ask when you apply, so you can be ready whatever the case.

Common career aptitude tests include:

• Verbal Reasoning Tests or Logic Test Questions

These are designed to see how well you can understand and interpret written text. Usually there is a time limit but applicants are not always expected to complete all the questions in the time allowed. Here’s an example question, the answer and an explanation.

Heart disease is so common that almost all businesses will have employees who either suffer from or will suffer from this condition. Research indicates that between 55-85% of all people who suffer a heart attack can’t return to work, because either their work is physically demanding or it’s high-pressure, stressful work.

Based on the paragraph above, for each statement which follows, state whether it is
a) False
b) True
c) Or not possible to say either way

1. Physical or stressful work may bring on a heart attack.

The answer is c) – it is not possible to say either way. You may know from life experience that physical or stressful work may bring on a heart attack but the statement does not tell you this or deny this.

You can practice logic test questions to improve your performance in actual tests.

• Maths or Numerical Tests

Maths or numerical tests are designed to measure your ability to do basic mental arithmetic, not complex maths. Tests are usually multiple choice and timed.

If it’s been a while since you studied maths, take some time to brush up on basic mental arithmetic such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, fractions and reading graphs. It will give you more confidence in the test and improve your test scores.

By: Catherine Z Jones

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There’s more help on job or career aptitude tests here including logic test questions and maths or numerical tests

How to Bring the Right Accessories to a Job Interview

First of all, whenever you go on a job interview, you should never leave home without your leather pad/portfolio, or briefcase. Carrying one of these with you presents a professional and business like image. If it's a portfolio, just make sure it's slim and it doesn't contain tons of personal paperwork in it that makes your portfolio look fat and or disorganized. In the case of a briefcase, don't bring something that will be oversized, or even contain your laptop in it. There's no need for anything like that unless for some reason the interviewer asked you to bring your laptop ahead of time.

Second, within your portfolio or briefcase, you should keep an extra copy of your resume and the cover letter you sent the employer. You never know, the interviewer may by chance tell you that they misplaced your resume. You will want to at that point impress them by saying, "Oh here, I have an extra copy".

Third, it goes without saying, have a pen accessible. Maybe that sounds very basic, but it's easy to take for granted. And the last thing you want is for the interviewer to ask you to write something down, and then you end up asking them for a pen. That will definitely show them (much like back in school) that you are unprepared.

THINGS NOT TO BRING TO THE JOB INTERVIEW


Do not bring your cell phone with you. There's really no reason for it. Unless you think for some reason that you will need to call 911 in case the building catches on fire. However, if you absolutely must have that cell phone on you, then make sure it is either off, or at minimum, on vibrate mode. Just remember, if you forget to turn off that ringer, and while you are being interviewed that phone goes off, then you will come out looking rude and inconsiderate of the interviewer's time and needs.

Secondly, leave any and all coffee cups you got before coming there back inside the car. Do not even consider bringing your coffee to the waiting room, because you never know - receptionists talk. So, in as much as you may think that you can act any way you wish in the waiting room in front of the company receptionist, think twice.

Lastly, do not bring chewing gum with you. If you do and if for some Godforsaken reason you decide to chew gum or even crunch on candy during the interview, then you should consider this particular interview as an exercise in futility. Why? Because you will not get the job

This article was authored by Cubicle Joe, a professional Work Life Interventionist with over 22 years of experience between the government and private sector. For more information, advice, and guidance from Cubicle Joe on job interviewing tips that guarantee results, CLICK HERE NOW

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Cubicola

Career Planning - Working Towards a Bright Future

When you begin to ponder on your strengths and weaknesses as an individual and begin a careful analysis of the things that you can do, you cannot do, you want to do and you don't want to do, chances are, you are going to rediscover who you really are as a person-on what you really want to become in life and on what you really want to happen to your life.

Having a strong grasp and a full and deep comprehension of your potentials as a person-the talents your possess, the skill you have learned and mastered and other latent abilities waiting to be discovered and honed, you can very well deal with career planning and you could start outlining your life over the next two to five years.

With career planning, you need to ask your own self questions like, "What do I want to do after college?" "What will I do if I didn't get promoted within one to two years?" "What's the next best job after this?" "How and where do I see myself five years from now?" Such questions will already guide you towards a career that will provide you with a good and stable future.

Set your goals clearly by knowing your passions in life-the kind of things that brings out the best in you and drives you and inspires you to work harder. Achieve these goals with career planning; that is, by drafting a plan of action that that will guide you along while realizing your dreams.

Don't gamble your life by relying on destiny to mold your future. Know thy self and know thy wants and needs. List them all down and work on them. Know the right path to take when it comes to your career planning as you take a plunge in life by learning from The Career Planning Toolbox.

There is so much potential inside you waiting to be explored for you to be successful in your chosen field. With the help of The Career Planning Toolbox you are bound to have a head start to your career planning to reach for those life goals of yours!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sturat_Mitchel

The Rules of the Game - How to Stay Ahead in Your Career

It's a competitive world out there and lots of people like you will be looking for the best jobs and best organisations to work for. So if you really want to get ahead it's worth knowing the rules of the game.

Think of yourself as a business: All successful businesses have a vision, objectives, strategic plan and financial goals. Yet when considering our own working lives it can be very easy to fall into the trap of defining yourself in terms of a job or a role, turning up for work every day and taking home a monthly pay cheque. This is a risky approach particularly as the sense of loyalty between employer and employee so rarely exists these days. What is your personal vision for a successful career, what plans can you put into place to achieve this and what are your financial targets?

Manage your reputation: Do you really know what others think about you, your capabilities and your potential? Would you be surprised? Don't be afraid to ask for frank feedback and check out expectations. Companies do this all the time through surveys and questionnaires to monitor and improve customer satisfaction, update services and products and change pricing strategies. Without this information, businesses would never be able to change, grow and adapt. Try this out for yourself. Seek out positive and constructive feedback (and not just once a year through a performance review!), then decide what you might need to do differently such as working on assignments to raise your profile, increasing your networking across the organisation, building positive and constructive relationships...

Identify role models: Seek out people who stand out in organisations. This is your benchmark. What is it that they do, think and say and what are their winning characteristics. Modelling behaviours and actions that are appropriate for you and fit with your own style can be a quick way to success.

Demonstrate how you impact the business: Identify and be able to communicate exactly how what you do directly impacts the profitability and success of the organisation. Knowing your business and being able to explain exactly how your work adds value is vital.

Commit to continuous learning and skills development: Businesses would die on their feet if they didn't invest and continually develop and innovate. How do you stay ahead of the curve? There are so many ways to develop your skills and knowledge through networking groups, books, magazines, teleclasses, discussion groups, coaching, classes, and conferences. Learning and developing has to be a continuous process.

Susan Tomlinson coaches and mentors individuals to help realise their personal and professional potential. Drawing on her years of experience in both career and personal development, she strongly advocates the enjoyable, yet challenging work environment. You can find out more about her programmes and her free 5 week Fast Track your Career! e-course at http://www.careerinsights.co.uk/programmes/index.htm

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Susan_R_Tomlinson

Motivation Group and Building List

The motivation as a word and motivate people is used in many terms in developing groups in social networking.The word inspire many people across the globe yet profound.In facebook, I note that there are extraordinary people with intention on humanity and sincere effort to realisations on building groups starting from ordinary campaign of aid ,voluntary, job search effort, simple advise and though journalism.

The idea to motivate people and pertinent to list building mainstream of joining the same vision and mission ,sharing ideas, and or develop new concepts on society realisations, I believe this goal is noble. Only few people in this world would do it, it's like no catch sales found at the other end.

Noted the second idea is about Complementary and Alternative Healing Practices, this mission and vision can be viewed on facebook,with creator Mr Sylvain Henry from Canada.The gentleman idea token at the purest level of spiritual idealistic, looks simple yet embrace the nations in Canada on helping each other community.

Very rarely indeed,the concepts he builds though not using motivate or motivation words, the acts and sharp intuition of the gentleman motivate the mind reader and entice the people on joining his group.Its about medical therapy which I believe the essence of world community to live a healthier live and stress relief and become self realisations on deeper insights.

If the reader would like to join and contribute the expertise as a heale, please join the group led by Mr Sylvain Henry, which we reassure can make your life meaningful by helping other people who needs our help.
Love and Motivate for People

About the Author:

Ari Lestariono is the owner of http://motivationaldaily.blogspot.com,you can copy articles but must stated the author's name and blogs/sites

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/leadership-articles/motivation-group-and-building-list-516710.html

The Resume Vs. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Have you ever wondered what the differences are between a resume and curriculum vitae? In college, you may have heard about them both, yet since graduating, you probably have heard less about the CV and more about the resume.

Though the CV may not be as well-known as the resume, it is a very relevant job seeking tool depending on your field. So before you prepare for your first - or next - career, let's take a look at the differences between the resume and CV to help you determine which one is best for you.

The Major Differences

The purpose of both the resume and CV are similar: to provide insight into your qualifications as a potential employee. However, there are some major differences between them. A resume is a brief synopsis (one or two pages) of your professional strengths, typically including standard sections such as your objective (or executive summary), educational background, work history and additional skills. The CV goes into more depth in each section, and even looks at teaching and research you've conducted, works you've published, and major presentations. However, because this information is not relevant in many professions, the CV is usually used by those looking for academic, research, scientific, or medical positions that require a more comprehensive look at the applicant.

Writing Your CV

Your main goal when writing your CV should be to focus on all of your professional involvement from college onward. Luckily, with a CV you have no suggested page limits to worry about, so you can let loose on all of your accomplishments.

Much of your CV will look like a resume (name, address, contact info at the top, employment history, educational background, training and awards); however, you can also include sections that cover detailed professional skills, certifications, professional memberships, and even individuals you've mentored. The more skills and accomplishments you have, the more sections you can create to highlight them. Just make sure to keep them all organized and easy to find. Also, try to tailor your CV to each job you apply for (i.e. highlight more research accomplishments in research-driven positions). Placing your last name and page number at the top of each page is also recommended.

The Successful Resume

Though you may already be familiar with how to create a successful resume, you can always use more great tips to catch the attention of the hiring employer. For example, it is good to use action-oriented statements to describe your skills. So instead of saying, "Duties included assisting manager with documentation and organization of studies," you might say, "Documented and developed electronic filing system for 10 studies on internal company growth conducted by the manager of organizational development, which were made accessible to the public via the company's website." Also, you'll want to include keywords, like "pharma" or "tradeshows" that can showcase your knowledge of your field. And don't forget to research the company you're applying for to help match your skills to their mission.

Whether you're using the resume or CV to fulfill your job seeking goals, it is important to maintain focus on your purpose, which is to market your skills and abilities. By doing so, you can move yourself that much closer to your desired position in the field you love.

About the Author:
Heather Eagar is a former professional resume writer and is passionate about providing working professionals with current, reliable and effective job search tools and information. Compare and choose the best resume service for you at http://www.resumelines.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/careers-articles/the-resume-vs-curriculum-vitae-cv-521271.html

Job Search Strategies - Using EMail Effectively

Yes, email is everywhere and everybody complains about how much they get - but they do read it. That's why email needs to be an integral part of your job search campaign. However, email in the process of a job search campaign needs to be handled with more thought and formality than most email communication receives. Here are a few ways to use email in your search for the best next career step for you.

Email cover letter. Since almost all of the resumes you will be giving people will be delivered electronically, an email will be your most likely cover letter. Treat it as just that, a cover letter, not an email. That means formal inside address and salutation, no cutesy abbreviations (LOL or BTW), and a proper closing. The tone of the letter also needs to have the formality of a business letter, not the casual informality that has become associated with the email world.

Email thank you letter. Proper convention these days for thank yous following a job interview or information meeting is a blend of both email and regular mail. An email should go out the same day as the interview or meeting to everyone you met with. And each should be different in content and refer to something the two of you discussed. This should be followed up within no more than 48 hours by a handwritten note on good quality paper smaller than 8 ½ X 11. It may sound like overkill but is usually highly effective. If you are interviewed by a panel, each panel member gets treated like an individual interviewer.

Individual email. Not only is email a good way to keep in touch with your network of friends and contacts, but it is an easy and non-intrusive way to keep in touch with people you have only spoken to briefly. As people live more and more online we are beginning to feel as if we know people we have actually never met face-to-face. That just increases the value of using email in a job search campaign. Email also answers the concern many people have about calling people on the phone because they don't want to "bother" them.

Bulk emails. If you hide the distribution list, you can update your whole network about the progress of your job search in fairly large chunks. You can also use this method to find out if anyone has contacts in a company you are targeting. And be sure you send your whole network an email when you land your next position.

Finding people. Because of the increase in number of social networking sites and their increasing popularity with people of all ages and interests, it is now easier to find people online than ever before. Google the names of people you have lost touch with and, if you don't find them that way, try searching a few of the social networking sites. Especially helpful for professionals is LinkedIn while FaceBook and MySpace each have well over 100 million registered users.

And, with your permission, I'd like to offer you a free mini guide: Job Search for Mid-Career and Beyond, that goes into more online and off line aspects of the job search process. You can download it by going to http://www.resumesthatrock.com/Job_Search_Guide.html

From Jane Trevaskis and Success-Catalyst.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jane_Trevaskis

Job Search Secrets - When Your Spouse is Out of Work

The loss of a job, either voluntarily or involuntarily, by either spouse can put the vow "for better or for worse" to the test - especially if you are not the spouse out of work. Then you are in the uncomfortable position of being affected by the job loss but not being able to do anything about it.

Unemployment (along with death and divorce) rates high on the list as one of life's top stress-inducing events. Acknowledge, out loud, that it is hard to look for a new position - everybody can use a cheering section. Think about the type of support you would like if the roles were reversed.

Remember that your spouse is more emotionally fragile than in most situations - for many people their job IS their identity and the job has just gone away. Let him know that his worth to you - and to your relationship - is much more than his job.

TYPES OF SUPPORT THAT ARE OFTEN WELCOME:

Support but don't push. Participate in the process as much as your partner is comfortable having you be part of it. But don't make it into your project. Remember that it's her job search, not yours, and she is in charge.

Offer to review the resume. You may be more tuned-in to his strengths and special skills than he is. Many people who are good at what they do assume that "it's just part of the job" or "everyone can do that"- and they're usually wrong, not everyone can. In any way you can, keep focusing attention on his strengths and the really valuable things he brings to the table.

Be willing to be a sounding board as she tries out elevator speeches or networking techniques. Remember, the more in control of the situation she sounds, the more productive the meeting of any sort will be.

No one can conduct a job search in secret - encourage your spouse to let people know in an appropriate manner. One key is to help him talk about what has happened in a positive and forward-looking way so that he sounds as if he is in charge of his career and, far from being a victim, is looking forward to new opportunities.

Help your spouse network - especially, open your network to her. This is crucial to the success of a job search since 75-80% of the jobs that are filled every year are filled as the result of someone knowing someone who knows someone.

Encourage her to identify all of the networks she has such as religious organizations, alumni groups, family, friends, neighbors, and professional groups as well as current and former colleagues, employers and vendors. One network many people forget about is that of those people we give money to who stay in business by referrals. This includes real estate agents, insurance brokers, financial planners, accountants, etc.

Try to avoid commenting on his activity level - you're probably only seeing the tip of the iceberg. Understand that it takes time and patience to find a job - and the higher up the food chain, the longer it takes. Job searches usually last at least 3 to 6 months and longer isn't unusual.

ON A MORE PERSONAL LEVEL

Sit down and have a practical discussion about money. Figure out how long you and your family can last without feeling a pinch. How can you economize? What expenses can you cut temporarily (and it is temporary)? How long can you last economizing? How much of your savings are you willing to use? What is the real, absolute, drop-dead-gotta-have-a-job-by-then time frame?

The more realistic you can be about finances, the less likely your spouse is to panic prematurely. Someone who is desperate to find a job now is the least likely person to be hired. When someone comes to me with that attitude, I know I'm going to be working with her for a long time.

Understand your own feelings. Your spouse being out of work affects your life too and you have no control of the process. If you haven't had to look for a job recently, you may also be unaware of what is involved in the job search process in today's business world.

And, if you are a stay-at-home spouse, having the other person around close to 24/7 may disrupt your routine. If you work from home, you may even have to share your computer. The old joke of "I married you for better or for worse, but not for lunch" will take on new meaning.

Be sensitive to the kids' needs - it's unlikely that you will be able to hide the whole situation from them and they will certainly pick up on the tension. Tell them just enough so they don't go imagining catastrophic things in the family, that, of course, they assume is their fault.

And, with your permission, I'd like to offer you a free report "Bare Essentials Guide to the BEST Next Job."
http://www.resumesthatrock.com/Bare_Essentials_Guide.html

If you would like to get a complete guide to finding the best next job, check out http://www.resumesthatrock.com/career_ebook.html

From Jane Trevaskis and Success-Catalyst.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jane_Trevaskis

Job Interview Questions - How to Answer Popular Job Interview Questions

Every kind of organization - no matter its size, no matter its type - has one thing in common - and that is the set of standard job interview questions its management ask interview candidates. Organizations will always ask specific questions, relevant to the advertised job or the industry they are in, but you can bet many of the standard job interview questions will be the same.

Here then are some of those standard job interview questions you can expect to be asked at every interview, along with advice on how to answer.

1. Tell us about yourself.

Most interviewers ask this question to start with as a way to get candidates to introduce themselves in their own words. Your answer must be honest, to the point and mainly focus on how you have acquired the skills required for the job. So before going for the interview make sure you research the job thoroughly and then subtly talk about how you are that someone who has what it takes.

2. What are your strengths?

A good reply to this would be audio visual. To show off your strengths, display your portfolio that you have brought along and speak about your strengths. You have to ensure that you talk about your strengths as they relate directly to the job's responsibilities, so don't riff-raff too much about unconnected skills.

3. What are your weaknesses?

A very common job interview question. Be honest and lay your weaknesses on the table. But don't stop there - go on to mention how you overcome your weaknesses to enable you to perform effectively. If the employer gets a whiff you are withholding information you're as good as out before you started.

4. What's wrong with your current employer/job?

One of the awkward job interview questions - one that you have to handle with composure. You should not talk about low pay or hostile working conditions or personality clashes. Instead, you must say you want to develop your career and take on more responsibilities. But if the new job requires relocation, then it's an easy question to answer.

5. Where will you be x years from now?

This question is to flesh out your ambitions. You can be honest here and mention how you expect to contribute to the job, enhance the work environment, be more productive, loyal, and try to create a bright future for yourself in the organization. You also have to convince them you won't leave the organization the minute a new offer comes along. In order to convince them, you must emphasize you believe in a steady job that advances your career, a steady life, a steady family, and so on.

6. Why us? What is it about us that makes you want to work here?

Your reply to this job interview question must show-off your knowledge about the company, its heritage, its mission and vision and how it reconciles with yours. Research the company beforehand and you will be able to answer these type of job interview questions well.

7. You have anything to ask?

If you don't, they will think you are disinterested, and if you do, you have to ask intelligent questions. You can ask intelligent questions by researching more about the requirements of the job or the nature of the company. Ask about development opportunities, training, performance appraisal and so on.

These were 7 of the common job interview questions employers ask at interview. Here are another 31 sample interview questions together with advice on answering interview questions.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Catherine_Z_Jones

Does Your Resume Keep It Real?

Years ago, all a resume needed was a brief objective statement before you wrote anything about your experience. Some resumes even skipped the use of an objective completely. When a summary of qualifications section was used, it really made a big difference and was considered cutting edge.

One of the first resume writers to emphasize the importance of the summary of qualifications section was the late Yana Parker - a true pioneering trailblazer. Before long, it really became the standard and is used to this day in one form or another. One of the great things about Yana Parker's approach to resume writing was that she kept it real. Yes, people like to come across highly sophisticated on paper. But, if you are too sophisticated, it can work against you unless you have significant achievements.

Sometime in the last ten or more years, resumes have evolved significantly. The standard objective statement has been replaced by a title statement. Taking it to the next level, it is augmented by a tagline. This was in response to the objective being so generalized that it became cliche. Many job seekers failed to specify what they were all about and what they were looking to do. The result was a statement that wasn't worth the paper it was printed on or the reader's valuable time.

The same thing happened with the summary of qualifications section. Originally, it was meant to include important qualifications that related to the requirements of a position. After a while, job seekers would fill this valuable space with an extensive list of soft skills and attributes, failing to ensure their information supported their career direction.

The answer to the growing demand for qualified candidates and the need to make a strong impression on paper gave way to the career profile. This paragraph format serves more as a bio written in narrative as opposed to the bulleted summary of qualifications section.

Unfortunately, this too has been compromised with the over use of soft skills, attributed and too many overly descriptive words about how wonderful a job seeker is. The solution to that problem was to add a keywords list after the profile to give the reader a quick understanding of the job seeker's core competencies. This was effective for a long time. Now it is fast becoming passe to include a general keywords list following a profile. Recruiters and hiring managers do not pay as much attention to the keywords list these days because, again, it has become cliche.

And now? Mini sections and sub categories broken down by job-specific functions, not attributes. The format might end up being a title statement followed by a tagline followed by a profile. These elements will then be followed by a chart that is visually appealing and breaks down a few important core competencies by category and examples of real experience, not soft skills and cliche statements.

The result? A resume that has substance and gives the reader a true understanding of how the job seeker's qualifications are a good match for the requirements of a position. It will make them put the resume to the side for furthering reading instead of throwing it out.

It is important to note that this is all before you even get to the experience section. You must first grab the reader's attention. Later you must hold it. It is advisable to make the extra effort to include very specific information in a resume and not just fill it with fluff and fancy words. That said, keep the information both real and interesting throughout your entire resume.

Do your research to see what types of formats work best and be certain not to be too general. It is your one chance to make a good impression. Maximize that opportunity by telling the reader exactly what you have to offer. They are looking for someone to fill a particular position. Make it perfectly clear that you are that person. Without specifics, you are just another faceless job seeker in the crowd.

Make the extra effort and you will increase your chances of standing out from the rest who have not. Again, keep it real and interesting. Make it about you with their needs in mind to make it count.

About the Author:

For more information, visit
Executive Resumes
Resume Writer

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/careers-articles/does-your-resume-keep-it-real-516663.html

How You Can Take Charge of Your Career

Many people purport to show how you can take charge of your career change, but few of them have the personal experience or credibility to convince you that it is possible.

Many others would even try to tell you that it can't be done, but that is just their lack of imagination. All that you really need is some expert help and your own desire to make it happen.

When you know what is involved, you can use a very direct approach to drive your career change.

It is relatively easy to learn how you can change your thinking to a new way of thinking about your career change that powers you through the change and empowers you personally to take charge of your career. Just don't continue to believe that 'they' are in charge.

The Direct Approach and Unadvertised Jobs

Job banks, search engines, job listings, and job guides are all useful tools in your employment search; however they won't find you the unadvertised jobs. Statistics show that perhaps up to 60% of all jobs are unadvertised and are found informally - that is to say through networking and the direct approach - so the unadvertised jobs are what you really need to uncover.

You can uncover these unadvertised jobs and get back into the driving seat by putting together a carefully crafted direct approach letter.

This direct approach letter is no more and no less than a 'marketing' exercise to a specifically qualified target audience. It is NOT a mail-shot and certainly NOT 'speculative' letters that some people would have you waste your time writing. Compared to a direct approach letter, the speculative letter or mail-shot is a complete waste of time, effort and possible opportunity. So don't do it!

Overcome those Interview Nerves

You also need to find out how to overcome those interview nerves and get yourself better prepared than the interviewer!

The "Tell me about yourself" type of question is used by many interviewers to allow you to settle in and feel comfortable. An interviewer who hasn't prepared beforehand will tend to ask this question to buy time while she thinks of the next question. It's then only human nature to ask questions relating to what has already been said (by you). Your answer to the "Tell me about yourself" question can therefore set the whole agenda for the interview.

Prepare this well and you're streets ahead. It should include a brief walk through your career history from the first job or when you left university; touch on each move you made with positive reasons for the move [e.g. I wanted to get some activity based costing experience...] and key in only relevant facts that show how you meet their needs. Allow only 3 minutes for this with most time spent on your most recent experience.

You will also discover that there are self-describing phrases that have interviewers falling over themselves to hire you.

A "Key Strengths" statement is one of these phrases and is a summary of your most powerful skills and attributes. You just need to prepare it carefully beforehand because it:

• Highlights your most important skills and abilities;

• Differentiates you from others and quantifies your added-value;

• Avoids the generalizations that most people seem to fall foul of;

• Provides specific examples of your achievements;

• Should be spoken naturally and take no more than two minutes.

Understand the Purpose of Your Resume or CV

Want to know what's wrong with your Resumé or CV and why they often just get in the way of your progress to the job you want?

All the poor recruiter wants to know is this: "Should I interview this candidate?"

You must make it easy for them to conclude: yes I want to interview this candidate. That is the sole job of your CV or Resume. So get your information in the right order and keep it brief and relevant. Too much information can disguise all the good things you have to offer, because nobody can find them. The first page is the most important part of the CV or resume. The reader needs to see immediately who you are, what you have to offer and how they can get hold of you.

• What specific skills are showcased on your CV or resume?

• Have you clearly identified your level of expertise and competence?

• Have you worked in different sectors?

• A short section of "Key Skills & Achievements" can cover a lot of ground for you.

Negotiate a Better Salary

Learn how you can use tried and tested negotiation tactics, without upsetting anyone, to negotiate yourself a better salary package and take charge of your career.

1. Choose the best and most receptive time for your boss. Ask for a meeting midweek, when the initial issues of the week have been dealt with and the end of the week is in sight. Most people are in a slightly more amenable frame of mind at the midweek point;

2. Make sure you have all your performance statistics at hand to show how you have added value. Your boss is only interested in paying for results, so what can you show?

3. Don't go in aggressively or in an adversarial frame of mind however much you need the extra money. Start pushing and you may as well forget it;

4. Use friendly language and gestures - the issue needs to be a "what can we do?" discussion, rather that a "what will you do?" confrontation.

Peter Fisher is Coach and Webmaster for http://www.Your-Career-Change.com where you can download your free Special Career Change Report and 63 page PDF e-book "Big Book of Job Hunting Tips".

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Fisher

The Visual Impact of Your Resume

Your resume creates an impact in two chief ways: that of content and the visual impact. Your resume must therefore, score highly on both counts because in many situations that resume is the first impression of yourself that you create on a person, so you should make it count. You should avoid making the oft made mistake when creating a resume, of concentrating only on content and not the overall design and layout.

Typeface / Font: When you talk about visual impact, one of the main things to take care of is the kind of typeface or font to use. Of course what is very important in determining what typeface to use is its legibility. The clearer and more legible the font, the easier it is to read. Fancy flourishes and stylish fonts are not for your sample resume. Perception of your level of professionalism, maturity and trustworthiness is based on typeface appropriateness. So if the typeface used in your resume sample is inappropriate it can have a negative visual impact on the reader. Choose a standard font or typeface, which is streamlined and straightforward rather than decorative, and keep it consistent throughout the whole document.

Layout: The resume has to be clear, appealing and easy to read at first glance, thereby prompting the reader to read further. Rather than structure long paragraphs, make it easier for the reader to read by making short to the point itemized paragraphs which can be separated by bullet points. Bullet points can be used to great effect when drafting your sample resume, they make clear and concise points, and differentiate items with clarity, increasing the level of readability for your resume. However you can err on the side of too much bulleting, bullet only those points which you want to draw the reader’s attention to at once. So it is a good idea to combine the paragraph and bullet layout for the resume.

Spacing: The text of the resume should be well spaced, in a sufficiently large and easy to read font size. A page crowded with words is both unappealing and difficult to read, thereby making it a turn off for the reader. It is a good idea to strike a correct balance between white space and text so that neither appears dominant on the page. Also if you can, try and make your resume concise enough to fit into one page; however if this is not possible let it carry on to the next page (or 2) rather than cram it all into one page.

Choose good quality stationery: This is an investment that will be worth its while: that of top quality stationery. Good quality stationery makes an immediate and positive visual impact, instantly conveying a good impression, which in turn makes the reader more willing to read your resume. You should also be carrying several pristine copies of your resume, lest you are found wanting when in need of an extra copy.

Put some effort into the visual impact that your resume will make and make that first impression count for something!

About the Author:

A good resume can go a long way towards getting you that coveted job. Check out the sample resume for every profession here. The resume sample can be used as a guide while formatting your own.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/resumes-articles/the-visual-impact-of-your-resume-518550.html

A Job Search Shortcut For You

What is a "job search shortcut"? It's anything that helps you get a better job faster. Why am I telling you about it? Because if you're like most job seekers, you're losing opportunities by searching for jobs the wrong way.

The Usual Approach

Here's how most people do it. They do very little research on that part of the job market they might be interested in - they actually put in more to buy a new TV. After that they put together average resumes that are not well-targeted to the jobs they want or could get.

Next they shoot those resumes out in huge numbers through the mail or on-line to huge numbers of potential employers. They let those employers make decisions for them about whether they're a good fit for the job and how much they're worth.

If called for interviews, they may do a little more preparation -- interviews are scary! In the interview, they either try to be a salesperson, or else they end up displaying little idiosyncrasies under stress that they would probably rather not let anyone else see.

The Aftermath Of The Usual Approach

After large amounts of effort and time at this grueling activity, they may eventually get a job. Unfortunately, it's almost always a job they don't especially like, with co-workers or a boss they may not especially like, getting paid barely enough to keep coming to work. Or maybe getting paid a fair amount but either way, disliking how they spend two-thirds of their waking time.

After a period of time at this job, they end up back in the fray. They may think they see greener grass in the distance, or perhaps they get laid off -- a casualty of the constant changes in the modern economy. Then they go through the same process all over again, ending up with a little more income because of their experience, but in every other way not much better off.

Is There A Better Way?

What if there were a better way?

There is.

It Worked When Times Were Hard

The better way to find a job was developed in the Great Depression because unemployment was so high and competition was so fierce. Compared to the usual way, which gets jobs for under 20% of people who try it, the better way gets jobs for over 70% of its users. And they tend to be better jobs!

How Does It Work?

It depends on taking a proactive approach like what marketers have to do. The formula is Resources-Needs-Benefits. Look at your resources, compare them to the needs of the market, and wherever there is a match where you could meet one of those needs, you have discovered a benefit that you can provide.

It Starts With You

You start to find your resources by assessing yourself -- your likes, dislikes, skills, knowhow, and personal style. What do you like, have a passion for, have interest in? What turns you off? What have you learned how to do better than some or most people, with your hands, thinking, words, talking? What kinds of people, work, and environments do you like or dislike?

Your Market -- Take Your Pick

You uncover the needs of the market by first deciding what your market is. Where do you want (or have) to live? What kind of work, industry, field, company or organization are you attracted to? Given what they're trying to accomplish, what difficulties, needs, problems do they have?

You can find all this out in the library, from talking to people who would know, and on the Web. You'll have to network with people in the industry and even in the organization you're interested in itself. On-line you have job search engines, libraries of information and statistics, and social networks.

You Reach The Turning Point

As you find this information, you start to notice places where you can help solve problems or meet needs. You get a good idea of what you can realistically do and want to do, based on what you have already done. When you're totally clear on this, it's time to make a proposal.

Your Offer -- You Need Them And They Need You

A proposal is just you offering your contribution to help meet somebody's needs, in this case for pay. That means your proposal has to be solid -- you really have to be able to do it pretty well. But by now you already know you can do it, so you have the confidence that comes from experience. If you're not sure how to put a proposal together for this industry, some of your contacts or research can give you tips.

Your proposal has to present all the details of how you can help. This replaces the resume. It also needs to display how much you know about the company or organization you're targeting. That shows your initiative in doing the research and it implies that you will be a helpful, active part of their organization.

It's Easier Than You Think

From your networking, you know some of the people you can contact to offer your proposal. By now, you must be very sure that this organization, type of work, and what you are offering is a good match for you. You will be radiating enthusiasm and a can-do attitude, as well as coming across as easy to get along with -- these are your type of people and workplace, after all.

Your positive attitude plus ability is exactly what most organizations are looking for. If the first one isn't looking for what you're offering, you might not want to work there after all. Say "Next!" and move on.

This job search shortcut may sound like more work, but it's actually easier -- it's less of a grind, you're pursuing what you actually want, and you end up far better off and usually making more money, too. Plus by the time you start your job, you have already developed some good reputation and a helpful network.

Looking for information on great companies in your industry or niche? Research them for free. Visit http://jobsearchchallenges.blogspot.com to learn more. You could be working and earning sooner than you think - you owe it to yourself to check it out now.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Woody_Armiger

9 Steps to Job Interview Success

So you've done the hard work and earned yourself a job interview. All that's left is to prepare for the interview and get the job! These easy steps, incorporating tried and tested NLP confidence creating procedures should get you on your way in no time...

Step 1 - Find out as much as you can about the interview situation.

The number of interviewers? Are they interviewing for an immediate decision or will it go to a second interview? How many people are being interviewed? Do you have the job specification or a sufficient outline?

If your recruitment agency cannot give you directions or details of parking, phone the receptionist at the company and find out well in advance.

Step 2 - Research the Company

Everyone enjoys having others take an interest in them and companies are no exception. A short period spent researching on the internet will pay dividends at the interview.

Get an overview of the company - its main products or services and its main customers. Focus your attention on the sector of the company related to the position you have applied for. If it is a job in Marketing, you could look at their marketing campaigns and product launches. If it is a job in Sales, you could familiarise yourself with their products and market areas.

Learn enough to be able to talk comfortably about the company and to be able to explain why this is THE company you MUST work for!

Step 3 - Familiarise yourself with your own CV

Practice talking out loud and conversationally about your work history to date. Focus on your achievements and the contributions you made to each role you have been in. Match your experience to the job specification and become comfortable with explaining how you will fit in. If there are any new areas that you don't have experience in, think about how you will rise to the challenge and get to the point where you can explain this with confidence.

Familiarise yourself with the dates on your CV. If there are gaps on your CV, be ready to talk about them in ways that show you filled your time constructively. If you have exaggerated a few minor details on your CV, make sure you can talk about them easily.

If you happen to be the one person out of four who invents things on their CV, then a word of caution for you. Employers are now becoming aware of the common areas that people do lie about; some even employ specialist agencies to vet candidates. The penalties of being caught can mean being refused the job or being fired if you've already started work. Depending on what you have invented, there could be legal complications too.

Step 4 - Practice the Interview

A quick online search will bring you a huge collection of practice interview questions. Many sites provide sample answers too. Always input your own direct experience into the sample answers so your interview is honest and flows with integrity.

As a rule, you should not say anything negative about your past work experience, even if your last boss was the worst on earth. There is always a positive reframe that you can use to show yourself in a good light. "My boss hates me and criticises everything I do" can be turned into "My boss makes challenging demands and through him I learnt to improve...". This is a true statement because you will have learnt something through working with him.

Step 5 - Be a Good Listener

Throughout the interview, you'll receive clues on how to proceed with your answers. For example, if the Interviewer asks more than once about how you deal with difficult people, you can be sure that this is important to him and you will do well to reassure him on this. Bring in examples from your background and from your CV.

Avoid simply quoting rehearsed answers to any interview question that is asked. Listen instead to the question and allow the flexible and adaptable side of you to quickly sift through the information in your mind and customise your answer to the question you are being asked.

Step 6 - Visualise your Success

This vital step, which is a standard NLP technique, helps your brain prepare to expect success. As your brain gets used to the idea of sailing through the interview, the confidence shows in your physiology, in the decisions you make and in the way you approach the interview on the day.

Imagine the day as a movie in your mind with you as the star. See yourself in detail leaving the house, making your way to the interview. Really step into the role and see and feel the detail. Take this image right the way through to the interview itself, going through it, seeing yourself interacting and answering the questions, right the way through to leaving at the end. Rehearse this movie as often as you can in your mind, improving upon it each time. If you saw yourself stumble over an answer, replay it until you are happy with the way you answer. Do this until you are completely satisfied with your performance.

Then, replay it again for the sheer enjoyment!

Step 7 - Dress for Success

There's no need to spend a lot of money on a new suit, but do wear something smart, clean, tidy and appropriate.

You know how you make snap decisions about people you see on the train and on the street? Well, people make those decisions about you too. Research suggests that interviewers know at a subconscious level within 30 seconds of meeting you whether or not they want to offer you the job!

Give them a good first impression. Arrive on time. Arrive tidy without multiple bags and cases. Arrive without anything lingering on your breath.

Step 8 - Plan your route

Make sure you know where you have to go. Don't rely on your SatNav - we've all been led astray with that at one time or another. If you can, do a dry run the night before so you know how to get there and can plan where you will spend time if you arrive too early.

Arriving between 5-10 minutes early for the interview is acceptable and allows you time to collect yourself. Arriving late is a sin!

Step 9 - Smile

It's interview time and there's nothing more for you to do. If you are feeling last minute nerves, or even desperation because you really need this job, you need to lose the air of vulnerability that this gives you.

Focus your attention outside of yourself. Imagine someone in a position of authority you knew a long time ago but have now lost touch with. Someone who had time for you and you liked and respected them.

Imagine that person appear in front of you now. How would you smile at them? Smile that smile now and feel how that smile sits on your face, in your eyes and in your body.

This is the perfect level of professional warmth to take into the interview with you.

© Reeta Luthra 2007.

Reeta Luthra is a Peak Performance Therapist & Coach specialising in personal achievement and in the elimination of psychological blocks. She uses EFT, NLP and other psychotherapy techniques extensively in her work to motivate people and help them achieve. Her website is at: http://www.paradoxofreality.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Reeta_Luthra

Expat Jobs in Bulgaria - Career Opportunities Welcomes Newest Dwellers in Town

Discover the abundant employment opportunities for expats in Bulgaria! The one-year-old member of the European Union (EU), Bulgaria has a string of expat jobs for those who are eyeing this country to be their newfound home. The country has been receiving investments from EU that pave way for more jobs not only for its natural citizens but for expats as well. On the rise is expat staffing as more and more industries are established and more and more positions needing to be filled in.

The nation's combination of architectural and natural wonders also leads to the creation of more expat jobs as these so-called gems of the country attracts about seven million tourists every year. Tourism plays a significant factor in the economic growth of Bulgaria. Expected are more career opportunities in the tourism sector since expats speak different languages so they could perfectly fit in to face incoming international tourists from all over the globe.

The country's infrastructures has been getting serious developments that lead for more expat staffing and such improvements can be seen in the following:

• thoroughfares (streets and highways)
• transportation terminals
• communication networks
• power sources

Such desirable improvements on the infrastructure will boost tourism further, and tourism would always mean jobs for everyone and there will be more for expat staffing as the influx of tourists increase by the year.

Bulgaria is also having this major undertaking dubbed as, "Beautiful Bulgaria Project" where the architectural and historical structures in the country will be renovated to restore back their charm and thus increase tourist arrival in the land.

For sure, expat jobs in Bulgaria will be on a steady rise as the country further secures its membership in the EU. Expats will not only benefit from the country's low cost of living but clearly on its abundant job openings.

In conclusion, expats can really have a secured living in Bulgaria with not only the beaches and other attractions waiting for them but as well as jobs and a better way of life.

Sturat Mitchel is an Experience article writer and very interested in writing on topics like Expat Jobs and Expat Insurance

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sturat_Mitchel

Salary Research Makes Your Executive Job Search More Profitable

How about that Robert Wright? He got more than $15.6 million in compensation from General Electric in 2006, including $520,291 in above-market earnings on an employee salary deferral plan.

But if you're thinking about a job change - regardless of whether you're after a payday like Robert Wright's - money's still something to consider. And until recently, I thought Salary.com was the only game in town when it comes to doing research on salary rates.

Turns out I was wrong. One source is collecting salary information direct from industry sources - even if they're making it not so easy to find on their website. It's CareerJournal.com, and they go deep into the executive levels in a number of fields, including:

* Accounting

* Advertising/Public Relations

* Aerospace & Airlines

* Banking

* College Administration/Academia

* Computers, IT & Internet

* Construction and Architecture

* Consulting

* Corporate Finance

* Energy & Utilities

* Engineers

* Financial Services/Insurance

* Food Marketing & Processing

* Health

* Hotel, Restaurant, Leisure

* HR & Executive Recruiters

* Law

* Librarians

* Manufacturing

* Media/Journalism

* Nonprofits

* Pharmaceuticals

* Real Estate

* Retailing

* Sales/Marketing

* Senior Executives

* Telecommunications

What's more, they break those industries up into dozens of subcategories, so you're bound to find the level of detail you're looking for.

Why go to the trouble? Three reasons:

1. Planning. If you're going to make a change in your executive career, make it an informed one. Don't make a leap to a new industry until you have a firm grasp on what it could do to the rest of your life.

2. Targeting. You want to go for the right position - one that matches your interests as well as your monetary desires (should that be a factor for you - it's not always in the top three reasons for executives deciding to switch jobs).

3. Negotiation. If the recruiter you hook up with matches you with an employer who makes an offer, your research will give you a better idea of how good the offer is - and whether to take it, negotiate it, or pass on it.

So check it out, and while you're at it, check out this other salary source, ExecutiveDisclosure.com. They tout their free site as an "online database that provides compensation data for officers and directors of publicly traded companies."

I've got no loyalty or ties to any of these salary source sites - just a desire to make resources like these available. Which one helps you best is going to depend on your own personal situation.

My advice? Check 'em all out!

Allen Voivod is the Chief Blogger for ResumeMachine.com, the leading resume distribution resource for managers, executives, and professionals looking to accelerate their job search results. Get the attention of thousands of hiring agents with the largest and most frequently updated recruiter database on the web, and dive into a wealth of immediately useful career articles and blog posts - all at http://www.ResumeMachine.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Allen_Voivod

Career Change - 4 Steps to Career Change Success

Losing a job may just be the opportunity you need to make the career change you have always dreamed of. Plenty of people spend hours at a job that just isn't an ideal fit for their needs. They stay for financial reasons, or because the routine seems easier than looking for a new job, or because they know they want something different, but they just don't know what that something different could be.

When you lose your job, however, you're forced to face all of those career issues head on, which can make this phase an ideal career change opportunity. Having only one career throughout a lifetime is a thing of the past for a lot of people. Depending on who you speak with, experts will tell you that the average person will have anywhere from four to seven different careers in a lifetime. So changing careers is a pretty normal fact of working life.

1. Develop a realistic plan.

Do your research and understand exactly what skills and experience are required for success in your new career. Be realistic about whether you have the skills to land a job in your new career or whether you'll need to develop some new skills and experience. Know the typical day to day tasks in your new line of work, whether local employers are hiring in your chosen field and how much you can expect to make.

Often you see the public side of a job, but there are a lot of behind the scenes responsibilities that may not be obvious to someone outside of the industry. Find ways to get inside information into your new career: talk to people in your new industry, job shadow someone, or even volunteer in your new profession. Do your research so you're certain that your new career is a good fit for your needs.

2. Move toward something you want, don't run away from something you don't like.

Often people can say what they did not like about their last job, or what they don't want in a new job. However, people typically struggle to say what they do want in a new job. Make a concerted effort to think through exactly what you want in your next job. Consider your personal priorities and values and ensure they are met in your next job.

It's far more powerful, positive and motivating to move toward something as opposed to moving away from something. For example, you may have hated your last job because you had a micromanaging boss who never allowed you to have any autonomy. You could think, "I never want to work for a micromanaging boss again." Or, you could turn it around. Instead, focus on that fact that you are a self motivated individual who works well independently and that you would be a great fit in that type of organization. It's a simple shift in perspective, but it's amazing how far it can go in helping you to reach your career goals.

3. Try to shut out all of the outside noise.

You know the people I'm talking about here. There will always be people who will not support your goals. It could be you neighbor who says, "Are you having a mid-life crisis?" or your mother who tells you, "You have unrealistic expectations; work is not supposed to be enjoyable." Of course there are always the people who won't come right out and say anything, but you know from the look in their eyes and sound of their voices when they say "That's interesting." They are really thinking, "Has she lost her mind?"

These people are not helpful in any way. Stay away from them as much as you can, or at least avoid the topic of your career change with people who are not supportive. They will only serve to undermine your efforts.

4. Do, absolutely, find mentors and people who will tell you the truth in a supportive way.

Unlike the neighborhood naysayers, mentors, can tell you the truth about your efforts to make a career change. Supportive people who have experience in your new field, and professional career counselors can objectively help you to assess a career change and determine whether you are heading down a realistic and fruitful path.

Do you have people in your life who cheer you on when you're making great strides, who kindly but honestly tell you when they think you're heading in the wrong direction, and who have only your best interests at heart? Everyone needs a few friends like this. These are the people who need to hear about your career change plans; they'll support you in surprising ways through your transition.

Too many people get comfortable and settle for second best. If you're thinking about making a career change, take the first step today. Search out information about your new career online, talk to someone supportive who can help you find the information you need, or pick up a book to help you get started. Remember, "You can't cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water." (Rabindranath Tagore).

Lisa McGrimmon is a career counselor, author and entrepreneur who has helped over two thousand clients achieve their career goals. If you'd like to learn exactly how to manage your career and gain enormous control over your future, visit Career Choice Guide. To get more tips on making a career change, drop by Lisa's site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_McGrimmon

Baby Boomers: Resumes and Cover Letters For Ages 50 and Older

If you are a Baby Boomer, you are a part of a generation that is headed toward retirement. However, due to our slumping economy, there is a chance that even if you are able to retire, you could be making a u-turn right back into the workforce to supplement your retirement savings.

With competition being so stiff, it may seem that the odds are against you for getting hired, especially having to compete with younger talent. In some cases this is true, but there are also employers out there looking for the skills and expertise mature workers can bring to the table. So if you're a Baby Boomer looking for employment, it is not too late to secure a great job. You just need the right resume and cover letter to get you in the door.

Updating Your Resume

If you've been out of the job market for a decade or more, updating your resume may be more challenging than you remember, especially when you factor in the Internet and possibly having to apply online. But that's not all you have to think about. As a mature worker, you also have the challenge of creating a resume that showcases your years of experience without shining a spotlight on your age.

So how can you get this done? One way is by using a functional resume format that highlights specific skills rather than chronological timelines. When writing your skills, try going into detail regarding projects you've completed that have benefited your previous companies. You can also create a section that focuses on the computer technologies you've mastered or any training you've completed. All of these things can help employers focus more on your skills and talents, and less on your age.

Using Your Cover Letter to Reveal Who You Really Are

Being a mature worker, you may have to contend with a few stereotypes during your job search. Some include you being less productive than your younger counterparts, more resistant to newer technologies, and set in your ways. Of course, none of those descriptions define who you really are. But it is up to you to help prospective employers understand this.

One way to do this is by explaining how important it is for you to expand the landscape of your career. You're not in it for the money, you simply want to grow. If you've recently received any advanced degrees or additional education, don't hesitate to mention it. And most importantly, let employers know you have no intentions of leaving the industry any time soon - you're still getting your feet wet.

Confidence is Key

You may be feeling uncertain about your ability to compete in an already competitive job search. But don't let that deter you. You have years of experience under your belt and the skill level to match. So make sure you maintain your confidence throughout your job search process. It will shine through in your resume, cover letter, and face-to-face interview.

Getting back into the workforce as a Baby Boomer isn't an impossible task if you believe in your capabilities and make a strong effort to excel. The more proactive you are about putting yourself out there, the more success you will have in locating opportunities that can take your career to the next level.

About the Author:
Heather Eagar is a former professional resume writer and is passionate about providing working professionals with current, reliable and effective job search tools and information. Compare the top resume services in the industry at http://www.resumelines.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/careers-articles/baby-boomers-resumes-and-cover-letters-for-ages-50-and-older-512769.html

A Major Obstacle to Career Change...The Fear of Self-Promotion and Selling!

Do you have a great business idea or a new career you would like to
build?  Many people do and some even start creating their idea.  Then
they stop.  One of the most common obstacles to building a business or
career you love is your beliefs about selling and promoting.

Do you have a great business idea or a new career you would like to build?  Many people do and some even start creating their idea.  Then they stop.  One of the most common obstacles to building a business or career you love is your beliefs about selling and promoting.Whether you are creating a business or building a career, you will have to sell.  You will either be selling a product or service or promoting your own abilities and accomplishments.  There is no way to get around it...you must learn to sell.There are many limiting beliefs keeping us from whole heartedly promoting our business or ourselves.  Many of us hold the belief that selling is a negative activity.  We believe sales people are pushy

, uncaring and annoying.  There are many beliefs around the idea that it is "bragging" to talk about our achievements.  People should just notice how great we are!  Of coarse that rarely happens.Since you can't be successful and refuse to self-promote or sell then perhaps it is time to change your beliefs around selling.  How would it change your attitude if you truly believed that you have something wonderful  to share  with others?  What if you believed that you could promote your business in a way that showed you cared about the success of others?  What if you believed that in the process of promoting yourself or your business you could make wonderful friendships and business collaborations?  It all starts with our beliefs which then translate into the attitudes we hold and how we share with others.  If you think about it you can probably remember someone who sold you something or offered you a service in a way that felt good.  In fact you felt better after they talked to you then before.  That is how you want to sell.Along with changing your beliefs to supportive beliefs around selling it is also time to take a look at how you like to sell.  Where do your strengths lie?  I found that I loved to show the value of my business through offering workshops.  I enjoy leading workshops and talking about my business came naturally in that environment.  Others like to get involved in volunteering and in the process share with people what they do for work.  Some people thrive on meeting people through networking.  Many like to market over the Internet.  Some people even enjoy cold calling!  Experiment for yourself and find the marketing venue that fits you and your strengths.As you think about your resistance to promoting your business or yourself make a list of fears and limiting beliefs that come up.  When you have your list  write an opposite powerful belief to replace it with.  Don't let the fear of marketing keep you from the career or business of your dreams.  Remember that whatever you have to offer is your unique gift to the world so give it!

Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com

about the author

Leanna Fredrich helps people discover their passion and build a business or career around it.  She specializes in helping people get over their fears and limiting beliefs quickly and easily so they can create their dreams. Are you ready to enjoy a career you love?  Get the FREE report "The Top Ten Secrets to Discover Your Passion-filled Work." For your free report go to http://www.LeannaFredrich.com

How to Deal With Negative Questions in the Job Interview

You feel prepared for the interview. You are confident walking through the door to meet your interviewer. You have your positive experiences and stories ready to answer questions.

The interview is going along smoothly when all of a sudden the interviewer starts throwing "curve balls." The interviewer begins asking for examples of negative situations -  times when you failed or had problems coping with work.

You are not prepared to talk about your failures or times when you were challenged by difficult situations. You become flustered and you lose your confidence. You also lost the opportunity to get a second interview - or an offer.

Most interviewers aren't attempting to be cruel when they ask for negative information - they are trying to find out if there are any "skeletons" in your closet – what problems you may have from past experiences.

So what do you do when you encounter those "curve balls?" You deal with them in a positive manner.

Here is an example of a question seeking negative information and how to deal with it.

Question –

"Tell me about a time when you had a conflict with someone at work and how you resolved it."

Answer –

"I usually get along very well with almost everyone."

"There was an incident that happened with a person who was not pulling his weight on the team and it was affecting morale. All the team members were getting disgruntled but nobody was doing anything about it."

"I took it upon myself to have a talk with the person when the opportunity presented itself. It didn't start out smoothly – he was defensive at first and resented my speaking to him about his work behavior. I was careful to let him know that I wasn't judging him but rather was concerned about the team and the ability for everyone to get along."

"Eventually he confided in me that he had some family problems at home that were affecting his energy level and patience. I listened attentively while he told me about his problems."

"Once he became aware that his behavior was affecting other's work he made a special effort to be more open and receptive. The team spirit improved greatly after that – as well as the productivity."

If you look carefully at this answer you can see that it offers many positives. The answer starts out with a positive statement: "I usually get along with almost everyone." It's a good strategy to add something positive about yourself and how you manage to get along with people before you begin to talk about a negative situation.

The next positive phrase used is about style: "I took it upon myself...." This statement shows initiative and ability to do something about the problem while other team members were content to be disgruntled.

This example also shows a sense of caring about fellow employees – taking the time to find out what the problem was and being a real "team player."

You can see that there is a good deal of positive information that can be emphasized in an answer - even if it is an example of a time when things were negative.

Sometimes interviewers are trying to avoid making a hiring mistake that was made in the past.

In the event that there have been problems in the past at this company you will have demonstrated that those problems won't be an obstacle for you. You have shown the interviewer that you will do what you need to do to resolve an issue or at least to get the facts about the problem.

Turning negatives into positives is an important skill to learn. When you are asked a negative question, stop and think about how you can refocus the question to include some positive qualities.

Sample answer – excerpt from "Perfect Phrases for the Perfect Interview," Carole Martin 2005 (McGraw-Hill)

About the Author:

Carole Martin is a celebrated author, trainer, and mentor. Carole can give you interviewing tips like no one else can. Get a copy of her FREE 9-part "Interview Success Tips" report by visiting Carole on the web at http://www.interviewcoach.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/interviews-articles/how-to-deal-with-negative-questions-in-the-job-interview-510718.html

How To Create A Resume That Gets Results

An Effective resume should make an impact on the reader who gets impressed and results get transformed. Its purpose is to create possibility of an interview and obtain it as well as to ultimately get the job or work assignment or intensive. All the efforts put in this direction would be worth its while and you can be given a lot of tips to help create resumes which gets good results which ultimately lands you up on the job or work assignment.

So, how to create a resume (CV, Curicculum Vitae) that gets best results in jobs hunting? It is better to be creative in sharing the information and write only relevant information to the employer befitting position. You can edit a resume template or other's example for getting ideas on how to create your resume.

To create a resume you should be very succinct and concise. The following procedures should be adhered to:

- Format for drawing results: Formatting is a very important aspect which depicts the requisite information in a sequential, easy to be read, and logical fashion which should have the ability to draw immediate invitations for attending interviews. You can resort to deployment of italics, underlines, bold, and capital letters can provide guidance to the employer to skim the resume with its contents very easily. You should take precaution to be consistent.

- Inclusion of your personal information: Give your name, residential address, phone number, and e-mail address on the first page of your resume. Marital status, religion, date of birth, political affiliation or membership of clubs should be included so that you are not taken a back with any embarrassing questions which may be asked during the course of the interview.

- Including an objective or summary of qualifications in an optional manner: An objective in many cases can be created as applying for a suitable position especially when employer has advertised for a junior position and you would like to take from him or her a higher position based on your profile qualifications and experience. Spell out your skills and accomplishments at the very beginning. You can also substantiate by writing in the cover letter to design a special attention of the employer to build his or her task simpler.

- Marketing yourself: You should try to give all the experiences that you have shared with all your employers in a detailed yet concise manner by choosing the right nomenclature for functions handled by you. To suit the posts for which you are applying. For example, you can give your experience, business experience; your leadership capabilities, your special administrative competences, as well as additional capabilities should be enlisted briefly.

- Proper use of action verbs for justifying your position: Effective verb creation for drawing their attention towards your skills and accomplishments and this aspect will create your resume very effective and strong for favorable reaction and response. For this purpose you should give only relevant information for proper analysis and identification.

- Relevant education and certifications should be highlighted: These aspects should be carefully looked into and should be given which can substantiate your statements with relevant certificates and testimonials. These aspects are important to highlight the study focus of a person and for his or her attachment to the role of the work assignment which is going to be performed.

These points should be analyzed, digested and noted for proper inclusion and coverage in a resume, it should be time tested to analyze the response of employers, make suitable changes accordingly based on demands and improved over a period of time. It should be very precise and should describe various functional responsibilities held from time to time in the form of a summary.

About the Author:

Oleg Savchenko is the author of the eBook "Expert Resume Writing" and the site "How to Create a Resume". He is expert in the theory and practice of resume creating and he can teach You - just visit How to Create a Resume and subscribe to eMail Course. It's Absolutely Free!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/careers-articles/how-to-create-a-resume-that-gets-results-516406.html

Electrician Training Is Great For Your Career Prospects

Modern day lifestyle and living requires classic technology, the use and maintenance of which is best known by electricians. They shape, design and maintain the entire electrical circuit right from the power generation house to our homes, industries etc. The job of an electrician is interesting and is of massive potential where financial benefits and job satisfaction along with social progress is concerned.
The pre-requisites required to become an efficient electrician are:
• Sound mind and physical fitness.
• Multi-tasking capability and enthusiasm.
• Personable approach.
• Good vision and the candidate should not be color blind, to be able to differentiate between different wires.
• Good aptitude in math and science.

The training either begins in the classroom or directly as a helper under senior electricians. International Brotherhood of Electrician (IBEW) and (NECA) are well known institutions producing good quality electricians. There are many other such vocational institutes and lately online training is also in vogue.

The classroom training is usually 144 hours. The aspirants, here, are taught various theoretical subjects and mathematics which can prove helpful in solving the on-job problems faced. They are taught to read blueprints, which is the basic design of any electrical circuit, Ohm's laws, magnetism, conduit circuits etc. They are made comfortable with the different tools and various safety measures to be followed during wiring. After such theoretical program, follows the apprenticeship or the on-job program, the candidates are expected to put 2000 hours for this. Their working skills are trained and tested under the keen observation of experienced electricians. After fulfilling all these conditions, they are given the high school diploma certificate or (GED) i.e. General Equivalent Certificate. The entire training is extended over a period of 4 years.

One can also start as a helper under a fully trained electrician and perform the non-electrical jobs initially. Eventually he/she is taught the entire procedures and requisites to be qualified as a trained electrician. There are also some institutions, which provide training, especially in rural areas. The people are taught latest techniques and procedures. They are sensitized to the use of solar so as to make the rural life self-sufficient.

The job scope for electricians is very good. The electricians are placed at construction sites, industries etc. Employers usually hire only trained electricians after they are said to satisfy the National and respective State codes. They can also be independent and self-employed.

Electricians continue learning all through their life. It does not stop even if they possess their certificates. They have to keep themselves updated and give advanced exams regularly in order to keep their business high. In this way, a person is trained to be an electrician. There is an unmistakable and significant difference between the electricians and the household quack experimenters. To be able to fix a bulb with the help of wires and to be happy to see it work is not equal to becoming an electrician.

By: James Copper-5768

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

James Copper is a writer for www.electricianscareer.co.uk where you can find out about electrician training

A Ten Step Guide To Changing Your Career

Many people at different points in their life decide that they wish to pursue a different career. Sometimes it is just a passing interest or repressed childhood dream and this article is not suggesting that your should resign from your account manager position to become a rodeo clown, however more and more people are retraining and pursuing different career paths.

Perhaps you are looking for something with more satisfaction, maybe you have bested all the challenges that your industry has to offer or perhaps you are looking for that golden pay check. Whatever the reason this article breaks down the overwhelming concept of changing your career path into ten simple steps.

1. Decide what job you really want. The importance of this part of the process depends on the circumstances of the individual job seeker however for most people with existing financial responsibilities it is crucial. The secret is finding a balance between what you really want to do and what is realistically achievable. It is essential to seek career advice and industry knowledge from impartial advisers preferably from within the industry you are examining.

2. Obtain the relevant training or qualifications. Use online resources and job search websites to look at the current market and at what level you can afford to enter the industry. It will not be financially viable for many people to accept entry level positions so you will have to keep working in your current role and study part-time. This is a good way to meet people training at similar levels from within the industry and employers will respect this as it shows you really want it.

3. Gain work experience in that field. Another great way to impress future employers is to do work shadows or work experience. This is more applicable to certain industries but it will build up your industry contacts, allow for networking and give you valuable practical knowledge you can apply in your courses.

4. Update your CV catering to the industry and specific position. Start building your CV as early as possible using this experience. Seek advice from industry professionals and your tutors about structure and content. Use online job searches and CV wizards to get ahead of the game.

5. Monitor trade magazines, websites and job search websites. Knowledge of the job market is essential because timing is everything in job searching. The trade magazines of the industry provide crucial information about the main players, legislative changes and trade organisations that will prove invaluable in job searches and interviews.

6. Register with Job Search sites. This resource is fantastic as you can float your CV then wait for responses, judging the effectiveness of your CV in the process. This site will be used by many specialist recruitment consultancies within the industry so keep a note of which agencies are handling the jobs you are interested in.

7. Listen To The Recruitment Consultants. When it comes to specialist recruitment, always listen to the consultants. They know what is going on in the industry and can give invaluable advice about CV, potential employers and where the money is.

8. Be pro-active and send CVs, request applications for positions and follow up when you say you will. This is imperative as you need to manage the consultants to a certain extent, build relationships and instil confidence by meeting deadlines and commitments to contact.

9. Get the interview and attend as many interviews as you can. The consultants are only there to get you an interview so have that objective with them. Attend as many as possible as they are valuable learning experiences and you might come back to that company in five years time with more experience. Even bad interviews are learning experiences.

10. Do not listen to interview techniques. They are crude, false and employers can generally see through them. You must be yourself, even if that means being nervous. If you have done your preparation then there should be no nerves, both you and the interviewer want you to be the right person for the job so enjoy it and use it as a networking opportunity. Each interviewer is another industry contact.

Happy hunting and good luck!

About the Author:

Shaun Parker is a leading online job search expert with many years of experience in the recruitment industry.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/careers-articles/a-ten-step-guide-to-changing-your-career-510385.html

Seven Tips for Jump Starting a Stalled Job Search

A growing number of jobseekers find themselves in the midst of a long-term job search. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. jobless rate soared to a four-year high of 5.7% in July 2008 and the average job search took more than four months to net results. However, some critics would put this number and the number of the unemployed much higher.

Helen Kooiman, author of Suddenly Unemployed asserts, "[S]uch statistics are inaccurate indicators. They do not include those whose unemployment benefits have run out or those who don't qualify for unemployment... Such statistics also do not count welfare recipients, temps (who cannot be counted as fully employed), or others who eke out a living on so-called self-employment." Neither do such reports include what the Bureau of Labor Statistics terms "discouraged workers" or those who "were not currently looking for work specifically because they believed no jobs were available for them." Their figures reached 461,000 in July.

A long-term job search can put a tremendous financial and emotional strain on a job hunter. "It's been a demoralizing experience and it's been very difficult budgetwise. I'm a single mother," Kay Marie King says, a former non-profit executive with a wealth of experience that is currently involved in an ongoing job search. So, what can you do when weeks of a fruitless job search quickly turns to months? Here are seven tips for jump starting a stalled job search:

Tip One: Don't be so quick to blame everything on the economy (your region, your industry, etc.)

These issues certainly play a role in the current job market. However, it is easy to fixate on such factors and completely discount factors which we personally control. The next six tips cover areas that long-term jobseekers do well to revisit to jump start a stalled job search. Why is this so important? I am reminded of a woman I once interviewed that looked great on paper, but during the interview she had an incredibly offensive body odor. She remarked that she'd been on several interviews but she was "overqualified" for every position. It was a classic case of the problem (or her perception of what the problem was) not really being the problem. While most jobseekers don't have such an obvious issue, each one would still do well to take a long look in the mirror.

Tip Two: Conduct a candid self-assessment.

Look at yourself from the perspective of the potential employer. Compare your experience and qualifications to those typically required of someone in your target position. How do your skills and experience match up? Think of creative ways to to fill skill gaps and gain experience.

Tip Three: Re-examine your target position or industry.

Are you searching for work in a waning industry or oversaturated field? Is your desired position readily available in your selected geographic area? Being open to relocation may improve your chances. Can you apply your knowledge and skills to an industry that is experiencing growth?

Tip Four: Rethink your current job search.

What job search strategies are you currently using? If you are concentrating your efforts on strategies that are typically the least effective (like online job boards and newspaper ads) your job search will take much longer to yield results. Consider incorporating job search strategies that yield higher results, like networking and direct targeted mailing campaigns.

Tip Five: Re-evaluate the way you are communicating your message verbally and in print.

Communicating your message to potential employers in a clear and compelling manner is critical to job search success. Re-examine your resume. Does it communicate your value to employers by addressing how your skills and experience will meet the employer's specific needs? Practice communicating your value in response to typical interview questions, including, "Tell me about yourself."

Tip Six: Maintain your intensity level and a positive outlook.

It is easy to become discouraged over the course of a lengthy job search. Keep a positive outlook and maintain a high-level of focus and intensity throughout your job search for quicker results. Taking a systematic approach to your job search will help you to stay organized and on track during your job search. Yet, it is important to pursue other interests during your job search. Enjoy spending time with friends and family. Renew your interest in a hobby. Tackle a project you wouldn't have time to if you were working. Spending time in other pursuits provides a much-needed reprieve from the stress of a job search. You'll be energized and ready for the next leg of your job search.

Tip Seven: Build a solid support system.

If a self-guided job search has netted limited results; consider working with a career or job search coach. Your coach will help you identify any problem areas and offer suggestions for improvement. Another option is to join a local or online job search club. If a coach or job search club isn't available try building your own support network. Enlist the help of family and friends or connect with other job hunters. Taking a team approach to your job search provides an opportunity for constructive feedback, a fresh perspective, ongoing encouragement, and added accountability.

Try applying the tips above to jump start a stalled job search. Learn more about conducting a Simply Successful Job Search by visiting SavvyJobseeker.com.

About the Author:

Roxanne Ravenel is a Job Search Coach; the author of The Savvy Jobseeker's Guide & Workbook: Five Steps to a Simply Successful Job Search; and the host of The Savvy Jobseeker weekly podcast. Visit SavvyJobseeker.com to learn more tips for finding your ideal work in less time.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/career-management-articles/seven-tips-for-jump-starting-a-stalled-job-search-512462.html

Job Interview - Mistakes to Avoid

The hardest part is landing the interview, but you did it, congratulations! Now, try not to mess it up! In order to understand how to interview, you must understand how not to interview!

Job Interview Mistake #1: Showing up Late

This is a big no-no, and for multiple reasons. First, you just made a bad impression, and those "sorry there was traffic" excuses just don't cut it. Does this mean you will be late for work everyday? Not only that, but now you have lost out on the opportunity to examine the office. You don't know the type of people that work there, how organized they are, how busy or slow they are, nothing! Big bummer!

Job Interview Mistake #2: Arriving Underdressed

Keep in mind, you are not the only candidate being interviewed for a position! So, you need to do everything possible to make, and keep, a good impression. Ripped jeans and a tie-die shirt are simply unacceptable. Remember, it is much better to be overdressed than under!

Job Interview Mistake #3: Lying on Your Resume

Oooo! This is a good one! Why may I ask would you lie on your resume, or fib, or stretch the truth? You see, an employer conducts these things called reference checks, and, they also "test" each candidate. They will ask you questions, or ask you to do something, relating to the experience you claim you have. It is better to put that you would like to get into a particular field, rather than saying you have experience when you don't.

Job Interview Mistake #4: Being Too Modest

Let's face it, some people are amazing at what they do! If you are one of those people, let the world know about it. Think of it this way, if you say your so-so when you really are great, the candidate who is interviewing after you may say they are amazing! Don't be the last, be the first!

Job Interview Mistake #5: Ignoring Your Body Language

This is crucial. If you are tapping your fingers or swaying your leg, this isn't a good sign. It shows you are bored and uninterested. Further, if you are nervous you may find the tissue you were holding in your hand is now torn into a million pieces on your lap, and their floor! Make sure your body is in agreement with your mouth!

Job Interview Mistake #6: Arriving Unprepared

This is more for your own benefit. You should, at the least, bring a pen and a notepad. A lot of information is exchanged during an interview and most of that information you are expected to remember. Better to have it and not use it than need it and not have it.

Job Interview Mistake #7: Forgetting Your Manners

Please and thank you are great things to use, but when I say manners I mean much more. You shouldn't chew gum during an interview, you shouldn't smoke or ask for a cigarette break, you shouldn't swear, etc. You can, but you probably won't get the job and most definitely won't build your network.

Tanya Willette, http://www.inovahire.com/blog

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tanya_Willette

Jobs in Career Management

Those in field of managing careers have a very important role to play. In fact, it is one wherein, careers can be made or ruined. Usually, HR managers shift gears towards finding jobs in career management. These jobs pay well, as companies are always on the look out for professionals who can manage the career of their employees, so that they remain in the organization longer.

Almost everyone works for a good pay packet, as the number one criteria for opting for a job, thus a career manager also doubles up as a salary and wage and analyst. Thus, a critical responsibility of every good manager is to talk with as many people as possible, who occupy and perform the duties of the careers being evaluated. This cannot be done at the desk, but on the shop floor, the engineering laboratory, at the office, or wherever else the job in question is being done.

Job descriptions, which are the written products of the career manager’s job evaluation process, should clearly and concisely describe the duties and responsibilities of each of the jobs in question. Whether the job is an hourly wage, salaried, blue-collar, or white collared job, does not change the process of analyzing the job.

In fact, the career manager can prepare a clear, accurate and comprehensive job description by knowing the duties of the job thoroughly, and to then skillfully and carefully describe those duties and responsibilities as they actually exist; not what one might suppose or assume them to be.

In order to completely understand and be familiar with the duties of the career under study, the manager can consider the following steps:

Move into the field of the career being profiled and meet professionals from various industries.

Make all necessary notes when interacting with professionals of the career being studied.

Observe how people work in this particular profession being profiled, along with the hierarchy of growth in the varied industries.

Compile all findings and prepare a detailed report, with statistics and expectations. Also set out goals and objectives in the profession.

You can learn some good communication skills by joining any personality development institution or go for stress management courses as it is gaining importance today in most companies especially the IT companies.

Article Source:

http://www.articlesphere.com/Article/Jobs-in-Career-Management/147771

One-Size-Fits-All Resumes Need Not Apply

Customized Resumes are the Winning Difference

Most job hunters understand the importance of creating a customized cover letter for each position they apply for. When it comes to the resume, these same writers often make a crucial mistake: unlike the customized cover letter, they use the same resume over and over in their job search.

Big mistake.

Tailor Your Resume for a Perfect Fit

Part of the job hunting process is research. You find out a company's operating principles and gain insight into its corporate mindset. Armed with this knowledge you write a cover letter that shows how your qualities line up with the company's plans.

Get more impact from your research by extending this process to the resume. Let's look at the rough layout of a typical resume and discover how to custom fit your skills and experience to a company's expectations.

Attention to Detail Catches the Eye

Why Objectives Matter

If your resume has a weak objective line, you may miss out on interview opportunities. If your objective line indicates that you are willing to settle for mere employment, you will be actively shunned by potential employers.

In the objective line, the specific always beats the general. Specific goals are better than poorly-defined goals. Similarly, an objective tailored to a specific employer is far more effective than a one-size-fits all objective.

Compare the objectives line on your resume to the company's mission statement. Do you see any congruence? A custom written resume objective should show a potential employer that your attitudes and goals are in agreement with that of the corporate culture.

Every Job Is Exactly the Same

Why Skills and Accomplishments Matter

So you are looking for a job at another company within the same field. Since your current job uses the same skills and values the same accomplishments, that means all you have to do is update the current resume and push it out the door, right?

Wrong.

Even within the same industry, companies will value certain skills more than others. One of your research goals should be to uncover the specific skills that will pull your resume out of your target company's human resources slush pile.

Your accomplishments should be custom fit to a specific employer as well. This can be very important when moving to a much bigger company within the same field.

If you have included hard numbers with your accomplishments--and you should--those numbers might not look very impressive to a company that handles two or three times as much business as your old job. Convert hard numbers to percentages to preserve the impact of your accomplishments.

I'm Hard Working, Intelligent and Loyal

Why Qualities Matter

I'm hard working, intelligent and loyal. Well, who isn't?

In the marketing world, a technique called branding establishes the identity of a specific product so that it can outsell other products that have virtually identical qualities.

Your perfect job attracts people with qualities very similar to your own, so merely showing that you have those characteristics is not enough. You have to brand yourself in a unique way if you want job hunting success.

Remember, just about anybody can write a one-size-fits-all resume. Only you can write your custom fit resume. Good luck!

About the Author:
Land Job is a resource for job resumers and cover letters. For more information, please visit: http://www.landjob.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/careers-articles/onesizefitsall-resumes-need-not-apply-511991.html

7 Tips to Prepare For Your Job Interview

You've sent in the cover letter with your resume and you received a call asking you to come for an interview. The employer sounds impressed with what you sent them on paper and now they want to meet you in person.

Job interviews are your second step to the first impression a company has of you. In the beginning they think they know you on paper but you have to make them comfortable with you as a potential employee.

Whether you are a new graduate or an older worker if you can put your best foot forward in an interview you can grab the job you want. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

1. Brush up on your speaking skills -- if you are a person who doesn't speak well in front of people, it may be a good idea to practice speaking in front of a group. Many job interviews today are group interviews instead of personal ones. In fact, many interviews today have a group discussion as part of the interview process. The more confident you are speaking to a group, the more your personality will get across.

2. Check your appearance -- no matter what job you are going towards make sure that you have appropriate dress for the interview. Look business, look professional.

3. Piercings, Tattoos and other personal statements -- in most interviews, it is inappropriate to show piercings and tattoos. Of course this depends on the job interview, but you want to put your best foot forward. Take out piercings and hide tattoos if you can for now.

4. Keep extra copies of resumes -- even though the employer has your resume, you will want to take several copies with you. There may be other people in the room who also need to see your qualifications. Don't rely on the employer to do this for you.

5. Promote you -- when you are in the interview keep your comments specific to the job for which you are applying. Show them how you did similar things in your last job (accomplishments) and create a positive image of who you are in work.

6. Do the job interview with confidence -- employers like to see confident job seekers. Watch your body language and make sure you are always showing openness to the process. Give a firm handshake in the beginning.

7. Make sure you are comfortable -- wear comfortable shows, dress comfortably but business like and make sure that you are comfortably seated when you get to the interview. This will add to your self-confidence.

A job interview is really a kind of game that we play that allows an employer to look us over before they choose to buy. If you are appalled at that idea think about it more. It is a system where employers ask questions and you are there with the ready answers. How well you answer the questions is how you will obtain the job. If you see it as a game you may relax a little and prepare easier.

So, take heed of these tips and prepare well for your interview. Good luck!

Sharon Alexander - Claim That Job
For more information on how to manage your career successfully, and to get a free job hunting report, visit Claim That Job at http://www.claimthatjob.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sharon_Alexander

Creating Momentum in Your Job Search

So you've made the decision to start looking for a better job, but you're a bit hesitant about jumping right into a search without a solid plan. Consider attacking your your job search with a three prong approach. Your time and effort should be dedicated to (1.) search and research, (2.) production, and (3.) follow-up.

Search and Research might involve the use of specialty job boards, meta-search sites, the Careers page of company websites, job boards linked to professional associations, your alumni association(s), and networking (person-to-person as well as e-networking sites).

Production involves getting your personal marketing materials (resumes and letters) out the door, in response to job leads. This includes snail mail, email, fax, via job boards, uploads to company web sites...and activating your network. Your resume needs to focus on strengths, areas of expertise and achievements. Develop templates for a standard cover letter and letter of introduction. And remember that your resume and letters are business documents, so make sure they're focused and concise. Rather than including a laundry list of your job duties, invite the reader to learn about you by offering solid examples of your skills and accomplishments. During each week of your job search, make a commitment to respond to several qualified job leads.

And don't forget to Follow-Up! This can be the most challenging and frustrating part of the search process. This step forces you to deal with obstacles, barriers, dead-ends, and rejection. But if you're willing to be a bit tenacious, this step will allow you to gauge which leads are getting warmer (and deserve more attention) and which have gone cold. So track your weekly job search activity (use a simple spreadsheet), get tough... and complete those follow-up calls and emails.

Decide how much time you can realistically dedicate to your job search each week. If your goal is realistic, it can be reached. Then follow an organized, three prong approach to finding your next career opportunity.

Learn more about the benefits of career coaching at http://www.exploretworoads.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_E._Long

Casual Dress Code and Employee Motivation

Our work culture nestles into a daily life interspersing and making it also the same. Sometimes individuals find it hard to keep their personal and professional life different. One of the instances is the clothes one wears to office.

Mostly as organisations have it, formals are to be worn to work. While some have a Saturday dress down syndrome some have formals even on Saturdays. As the working professional gets immersed in work and the atmosphere, he or she gets to wearing formals anywhere and everywhere.

So even on a day off, when the employee is out with family his dressing sense remains formal, this is because it is hard for him to break away from the routine code. Besides, wearing an executive attire ushers in an atmosphere very formal as against a casual and a cool environment.

If one goes into an ad agency you will find most of them are very casually dressed. Infact the senior creative guys wear dusty torn jeans, a shirt pulled out and slippers on bare feet. Not because they do not have the money to spend, but because they want to feel comfortable in their attire and hence work comfortably.

Similarly organisations with this attitude like publications, magazine houses and tour agencies allow their employees to dress down. And does that work. Yes it does. Employees are motivated to get the work done than staring at each others branded clothes. With the dress down policy anybody can wear what they please so there is less thinking in the morning as to what do I wear today and employees show up on time. They can sit comfortably and work better that increases productivity which is ultimately the underlying reason for any organisation.

But at the same time getting dressed down does not mean you can wear shorts and Bermudas to office. That is going overboard. This never really happens but sometimes you get employees who take the entire hand when you give them the finger.

Being speculative about how employees will change their attitude with the dress down work code is natural. So you can introduce it backwards. Like Saturdays and Fridays are dress down days. See how your employees react to it. Give it a month or two. If it really affects the attitude, aptitude and growth level. Then introduce it for the rest of the days or keep it reserved for a few days only.

To check out more on casual dress, winter dresses, or smocked dresses please refer these links.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennie_Gandhi

Customer Manager Resume: What You Must Know in Getting a Good Customer Manager Resume

 

Millions of people everyday take their chances at getting their dream jobs by sending resumes to different companies and then waiting for these companies to call them back for an interview. But landing your dream job is not a matter of pure chance - it also requires calculations.

It is a matter of realizing just how that single sheet of paper called your resume is your lone ticket to even being considered for the job. It is a matter of asking yourself, "Why would my prospective employer take the time to read my resume on top of millions of other hopeful job seekers?" The answer is not written in the stars; it should be right there on your resume.

As an aspiring Customer Manager, your first real job is to come up with the best Resume. If you succeed at doing this, you will surely get that dream job. But how do you go about it? You may think it's about filling up your resume with information that will make you seem superhuman: endless lists of educational achievements, job experiences, affiliations, and character references.

Well, you should know that the secret is always in how you say it, not just what you say. Coming up with a winning Customer Manager Resume is, quite again, not something you leave to chance but something you should really be working out for.

In the corporate world, there is one undeniable truth you need to realize: the higher up the ladder, the harder it is to climb. But the way is always open for anyone who dares to do so - and that includes you. It is for this reason that a Customer Manager should always strive to get the best Resume to help him prove his skills and expertise on the position.

Just how important is a resume anyway? And how hard is it to come up with one? You have to realize that your resume is all that your prospective employer will know of you - your purposes for applying for the job, your educational background, your related work experience, and your personal characteristics that render you fit for the nature of the work you wish to be considered for. Do you really want to make the wrong impression? Of course not - especially when you are aiming for such a position as a Customer Manager - and this is why you need to have the best Customer Manager Resume you could ever come up with and present during your job or business interview.

But how hard could that be, right? Perhaps you've been able to pen your own resumes in the past, and maybe they have gotten you the job you want. But again, do not forget how much tougher it is up the corporate ladder - do you really want to leave your chances to maybe and perhaps? What you need is professional help that will do the job for you.

The best obvious option is to come up with a Professional Resume Service. Someone who knows how the industry works; knows how employers think; and knows exactly what you need. Every step is crucial now, and every misstep could mean a notch down the ladder, not up. Of course we all know which way you want to go.

About the Author:

Seeking the help of a professional resume maker should never be a big hindrance for you, just to get a perfect resume of your own.

I have developed a site that is solely dedicated to assisting individuals who want to learn how to make a resume that will guarantee winning every important interview.

Visit my site thru this link: Professional Resume Service

Leonardo Endo is an online entrepreneur and has been involved to helping other people in achieving their goals toward career advancement.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/resumes-articles/customer-manager-resume-what-you-must-know-in-getting-a-good-customer-manager-resume-504055.html

Working Abroad Can Help Your Career Later

You might never know it, but your career later in life can be affected by the things that you are doing now. Working abroad can be a great way to not only have wonderful experiences while you are there, but also to prepare yourself for later life by doing things that will benefit your career on down the road. There are so many things that working abroad can give you - and all of them will benefit you in some way during your career later in life.

Experience

Experience is the first thing that working abroad can give you. You can get all of the experience in the world by working out in it. You can learn new skills and learn how to do new things, and you can get better training programs for your jobs than you would be able to do if you weren't working abroad. You can benefit from the teachings of people who are from different countries and cultures than you, because they'll have different ways of teaching and different methods. All of this experience can benefit you later in your career, no matter what it is that you are doing.

Multi-Cultural

No matter what your future career might be, the multi cultural aspect of it is going to be very important in the coming years. Each profession is constantly being challenged by the world around it, and knowing how to compete in a global arena and deal with multicultural ideas is always something that will be of a benefit to you in the future. By working abroad, you can get these multicultural ideas and you can learn from them.

Connections

Also, working abroad will give you those great connections. Whether it is the people that you work with, your boss, or even your customers, you are going to be making connections with people all around the world. You never know when you might need to know someone in India or France later in your life. In fact, you might be a better candidate for a job simply because of your connections all around the world. You can get these connections easily simply by working abroad and making the most out of your situation.

Understanding

Another thing that will benefit you in your career, no matter what it is that you choose to do, is understanding about the world around you and what can be found in other places. Knowing how the world works, and understanding what it means to work with different people in different situations can prepare you for the way that you will handle your own career.

By working abroad, you might just be the best candidate for jobs later on. You'll be able to handle them better, be more reliable, and have those great connections that will last for a lifetime. Working abroad isn't just something that is great for now. It is an investment for the future.

This free article about overseas jobs was brought to you by jobinthesun.com

Simon M Skinner has worked in the recruitment industry since 1994. He now heads up the marketing team for the Caribbean employment website http://www.jobinthesun.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_M_Skinner

Writing a Student Resume

If you're still in college, chances are you haven't had the opportunity to hold down many impressive jobs in between late-night studying and late-night socializing. So if you're putting together a resume for a potential employer, you may wonder how in the world you can create something that will get you hired for that coveted internship or even a part-time job at your favorite music store. The key is to play up your strengths and include items that make the most of your background, education, work experience, and interests. The following tips will help you craft a student resume that will make you stand out from the crowd.

• Put your education front and center. Assuming that your work experience is pretty limited (two summers of waitressing doesn't qualify as extensive work experience-unless you're applying to be a waitress), you need to place the education section of your resume at the top. If you have a great overall GPA, make sure that's in big, bold letters. If your major GPA is far superior, include that number instead. Lacking much real-world experience, potential bosses have to go by how well you applied yourself to your studies to try to predict how well you would apply yourself to their position.

• Point out honors and awards. These may not matter 10 years down the road when your career is in full swing, but right now they may hold some sway-kind of like a stellar GPA. If you've received any awards or honors (Dean's List, Sophomore Journalism Award, French Student of the Year, etc.) make sure you compile that list in an "Honors" section.

• Highlight experience gained through classes. Say you want to nail down an internship at a publishing house. List classes that have prepared you for this opportunity and the skills you've gained through outstanding class work. If you took a PR course and learned to write killer press releases, put that fact in your resume. If a Professional Writing course taught you how to compose professional acceptance and rejection letters (for all of those manuscripts at the publishing house), list that proficiency.

• Include your part-time jobs. Logging 15 hours a week at your local coffeehouse isn't typically a ladder to an accounting job, but your can put a positive spin on experience that may not seem relevant. Think about what your responsibilities were, and list those instead of a cold, hard job description. For example, did you help train a fellow barista? Were you in charge of totaling receipts from the day's sales? Did you develop a new menu that better highlighted the coffee products? These responsibilities include elements of HR, accounting, and marketing. Think creatively, but make sure it can all be verified by your previous employer.

• Sort through your hobbies and volunteer work. Hopefully by now you've been involved with at least some volunteer work. Whether that means conducting a fundraiser for your fraternity or sorority or finding time to tutor kids in your favorite subject. Whatever your experience, turn it into something potential employers can use. If you coordinated a bake sale for your sorority, translate your results into numbers that demonstrate a job-related ability. For example: "Under my leadership, this endeavor raised profits by 50% over last year's totals." And if you haven't spent time on volunteer work, make sure you put that at the top of your to-do list-soon!

• Emphasize your skills. This includes both "hard" and "soft" skills. By the time they get to college, most students have a thorough understanding of a variety of computer hardware and software, which is critically important in any workplace today. Describe your familiarity with technical applications-especially those that relate directly to the job for which you're applying. Just as important today are "soft" skills such as interpersonal skills, conflict resolution skills, and teamwork skills. You can list these alone, but it's more effective to include a one-line account as well. Under teamwork, you may say, "Worked effectively as part of a four-member team to write a proposal to bring a soccer program to campus."

• Make sure employers are able to reach you. If you have a temporary address on campus, as well as a permanent address, add them both to the top of your resume, along with both phone numbers, your cell number, and your e-mail address. You want potential employers to be able to get in touch with you whether you're home for the weekend or on campus.

About the Author:
Read resume writing service reviews of the best resume writing services at JobGoRound.com.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/careers-articles/writing-a-student-resume-506664.html

10 Tips For Resume Writing

Searching for, and landing that one special job is going to require you to write a well prepared resume. Yes, the thought of writing about yourself can be very intimidating, especially not knowing where to start or what to include. Here is a list of 10 tips that will help you in writing that perfect resume.

1. One of the most important things to remember is that you are marketing yourself. The resume is only going to enhance your best qualities. That being said, you need to focus on one specific objective, or bull's-eye. This is what is going to make you stand out from the crowd. With out having a plan, or objective your final product will not be clear, it will seem unfocused. So take some time before you start to write, and focus on a objective, or bull's-eye.

2. As mentioned above you are marketing yourself to a prospective employer, and the resume is the marketing tool that is going get you; the product in the hands of the employers. This is where you want to put your best-self at the for-front. You are going to market your self through your resume. This is where you list your benefits and features. Show what makes you unique, these benefits and features should resonate through your resume.

3. Remember this tool is used to get you an interview, it is not intended to get you the job. Avoid going into detail about every accomplishment you have achieved. You want to be clear and concise. Tease the employer, peak his or her interest with your resume in order to get the interview. The interview is where you will go into more detail about yourself.

4. The construction of your resume is very important. First of all you want to make sure that you make it only 1-2 pages long, and the reading of it flows smoothly. Use proper grammar, and please make sure that your punctuation is correct. Also make sure that you leave white space between paragraphs, and your font size should not go any lower /higher than 10.

5. Next you want to choose your words carefully, Remember it takes the employer anywhere from 30 seconds to 1 minute to review your resume. This is a short period of time, so you need to make sure your strong points are at the beginning, and they capture the attention of the employer. You can do this simply by accenting your strengths with bullet points. When using bullet points make sure you use short strong sentences.

6. Now you want to show that you know what you are talking about. Stay away from only one strong point. Show the depth of your knowledge, highlight the different strengths that you have and just touch on them. You will want to accent the positive, and leave off the negative if you feel they will prejudice your chances of an interview.

7. This next step is very important, as mentioned above you want to make sure that your resume flows smoothly. By this I mean that the reading has to be smooth, not choppy and going in different directions. Remember you are writing around your bull's eye so everything has to be relevant, and flow from one step to the next.

8. Once you have a finished product you want to review it and make any changes that are warranted. You want to make sure that you read it as if you are the person making the decision as to who will get interviews. If it does not make sense to you, then it will most likely not make sense to that person.

9. Another good idea would be to let other people read it. They will probably see things that should be changed, plus they will not be as easy on you than you would be on your self. this will make for a better, and higher quality finished product. Remember to make changes based on the input you get from the other people's input.

10. Now it's time to submit your resume to prospective employers. When submitting your resume remember that your odds increase with the number that you submit. Do not be afraid to submit them. You want to submit to jobs that are what you are looking for, some that are just below what you are looking for, and some that seem to be a bit out of reach, You never know where you will find that jewel of a job,

By following these few steps you can create a resume that will point out your strengths and get the attention of the prospective employers.

Copyright © Frank Tello 2008

Writing can be very frustrating. But with a little help you can learn to write with less stress. My name is Frank Tello and I am the owner of http://www.Writing-Help-For-You.Com Feel free to drop by for some free tips and information to help you with your writing.

Click on this link to visit http://www.Writing-Help-For-You.Com

Frank Tello

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Choosing the Right Resume Format

If you learned to write a resume more than 10 years ago, you may be thinking, "I didn't know there were different formats." That's because until recently, most workers were pretty predictable: they stayed at the same company-or at least within the same field-throughout their careers. Few people switched careers, and they certainly didn't switch careers the three to five times many workers today do.

Everyone learned how to write a chronological resume because it made sense. And it's still a viable format for many people, but there's a whole new world of possibilities out there. Below is an outline of popular formats and a listing of when they're most useful.

Chronological Resumes

These are still the most commonly used resumes-first, because most people apply for jobs that are relatively similar to the position they currently occupy and secondly, because it's the most commonly taught resume. Chronological resumes are perfect for showcasing your growth within a field of employment and progression up a career ladder. Use this format when you're:

• Applying for a position within the same field.
• Applying for a promotion at the same company.

To format this type of resume:

• Start with your Objective, where you list a specific job you're interested in, or an Interest section, where you list a few of your most marketable strengths.

• Next is the Experience or Work History section. In reverse chronological order, list your jobs, dates of employment, and significant tasks.

• Add your Education section third (assuming you've been out of school at least five years and have been building your career since then), and include any special training or certifications you've received.

• Finish with an Additional Skills list, where you describe abilities that may not be directly related to the job for which you're applying, but are assets just the same (superior computer skills, foreign languages, etc.).

Functional Resumes

Functional resumes are the second most popular format because they can be used to both highlight and hide certain elements. This format is great for emphasizing a skill set and unique abilities. For better or worse, it doesn't underscore the jobs you've held, so make sure you understand that before putting together a functional resume. Use this format when you're:

• Switching careers or fields.
• Re-entering the work force after an absence (to stay at home with kids, an illness, etc.).
• Young and entering the work force for the first time.

To format this type of resume:

• Start with your Objective or Interest section. This is especially important with a functional resume, which may include information from several fields or careers.

• Next list all of your experience under different headings. For example: Sales Experience will include everything you've done in sales-from all of your jobs. Organizational Experience will include everything you've ever done in that category, etc.

• Third is the actual Employment category. In reverse chronological order, list your employer, dates of employment, and title. Don't record job responsibilities-all of the good stuff will already be listed above.

• Now add your Education section.

• Finish with your Additional Skills section.

Technical Resume

As its name implies, a technical resume is ideal for drawing attention to a job seeker's technical skills-a highly valuable commodity in today's market. Done correctly, it also highlights stability. Use this format when you're:

• Applying for a technical job and have lots of experience.

To format this type of resume:

• Start with a Profile section that lists your strengths and skill sets.

• Next add an Experience section that lists your jobs and associated responsibilities in reverse chronological order. (Because technical formats are geared toward technical industries, it's assumed that you don't need to hide career gaps or changes.)

• At the bottom, insert your Education section, and include any additional training, certificates, courses, etc.

Curriculum Vitae

Many people use "curriculum vitae" and "resume" interchangeably. But technically, a curriculum vitae is specifically used within the academic and research arenas. It's a format that accents teaching, publication, and research experience. Use a curriculum vitae when you're:

• Applying for an academic or research position.

To format this type of resume:

• Start with your Education section-even if you've been out of school for years. In reverse chronological order, list your degrees, where they were earned, your areas of study or research, and thesis topics.

• Next, in reverse chronological order, list your Practica section (for educators who also have a degree in areas such as psychology, as well as researchers) or Teaching section (for academic resumes). Both of these are the equivalent of the Experience or Work History sections of most job seekers' resumes. If you need both a Practica and Teaching section, list the Practica first.

• Third, list your Research section (if applicable). Discuss what projects you worked on, under whose supervision, what the results of your research were, and any other highlights of your experience.

• Add your Publication section next, listing the journals in which your work has appeared.

• Finish with an Affiliation section followed by an Honors or Awards section.

About the Author:
Jason Kay recommends you read resume writing service reviews before choosing a professional resume service. Read more career advice and resume distribution reviews at JobGoRound.com.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/careers-articles/choosing-the-right-resume-format-501444.html

Career Planning - 5 Quick Start Tips to a Better Future!

5 Quick Tips to Control Your Career and Your Future!

It's unlikely that anyone today will stay with one employer their whole working life. As you make choices regarding your career your identity comes from these choices and not your employer.

Who is making a lifetime commitment to your career? It's surely not your employer, no matter how benevolent they might be. The person controlling your life is you, so if you take responsibility for your life and your future you'll be far ahead of most people. It's counterproductive to blame circumstances you cannot control or to blame your employer, your supervisor or co-workers.

If you feel powerless because of where you work, or the career you are in, wake-up and get started on your future. Everyone, with a bit of planning has the ability to quit their jobs and start with another employer, another career or start working for themselves.

The job market is relatively soft right now, but the economy will change and if you plan for a job or career change you future success starts now.

Five Ways to Quickly Get Control of Your Career and Your Future.

1. Research job opportunities all the time.

This doesn't mean you need to send out five resumes every day. What is does mean is you are constantly looking for opportunities. Some may be internal-with your current employer-some may be external.

Some opportunities may be additional education, self-study, networking with outside organizations, and becoming a player in a career related organization. All will provide you with a constant stream of valuable career information.

If you get stuck and don't see a way out, work hard at getting help. Career coaches are everywhere, how about a mentor or someone from your network.

Build up your support team and soon you'll have a group of people working on your behalf.

2. Don't use money issues as the reasons holding you back.

If you use this as an excuse for making a career or job decision you are shortchanging yourself. If you think you need a certain income to live well, there are many families living better but earning 10%, 20% and even 50% less than you do. How do they do it? Do some research.

After your research then make your plans and you'll soon find that financial issues will drop off your worry/excuse list.

3. Honestly assess where you happiness comes from.

If it were money, millionaires would be the happiest people on the planet. And earning 25% more may or may not increase you level of happiness. Probably not as there is always 25% more, and 25% after that.

After you've built your career plan and you take action this is the fasted path to fulfillment and happiness, not ruminating about what you cannot control.

4. Blaming others or taking a routine negative approach to a situation is a lose-lose proposition.

How you view situations matters. If a problem becomes framed as an opportunity you'll be well on your way to controlling the situation. Search for the best in every situation, taking the optimistic approach will put you more in control of your career and your future.

5. Do the best presenting in your "brand."

Looking your best starts with physical conditioning. What is your ideal weight? Do you regularly exercise? Do you go out of your way to build in some physical activity into your daily routine?

Working in a three story building-how often do you use the stairs? Going shopping? How about parking at the edge of the parking lot and getting in some extra walking. You get the idea.

What you wear can make a difference. Recently I meet with a manager who was dressed in what looked like Goodwill castoffs. He didn't impress any member of my team and he had to work extra hard to get his points across. This is not to suggest that he had to wear a $2000 designer suit, but freshly pressed khakis, with a shirt without a frayed collar and shined shoes would have made at least a neutral impression.

Need assistance with the rest of your appearance? Get help, get a regular haircut, etc.

Also, as part of your career planning work hard to improve your ability to communicate, both in writing and in making an oral presentation. Improvement in this area will also improve your "brand" and will pay big dividends.

Controlling your life, career and future is no easy task. Once you make the decision to start, work through one thing at a time. Keep it up and before you know it you will put together a record of personal achievements and career advancement. The time to start is now.

John Groth is a Career Coach and former HR executive. On his site find Career Planning Ideas valuable articles and a Free seven day career planning guide. Discover up to date career and recruitment strategies at his Employment Resources-Resume Writing Tips all to assist you in advancing and managing your career.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Groth

Team Building Enhances Motivation Skill

An organization is required to frame effective team in order to achieve the company goal more successfully. If an organization is looking build a strong team, then at first proper goal setting should be compiles. Motivation plays the domination role in building effective team for a company. Generally, every firm sets a goal to develop the business in the competitive environment. Without goal no company will exist, so to achieve such goal every company requires motivation and for that professional teambuilding is required. The corporate events for each firm differ and accordingly the group should be framed.

At first, the team should clearly know the purpose of business and why we are competing with others. Fellowship, loyalty is considered to be one of the key ingredients to initiate successful group. The other prominent factor is that the people should have to face challenges in business environment. When a worker comes up with an attitude of facing the challenges, then it is step for success in life. Roles, responsibility and goal should be specifically defined to the workers of the organization.

When a firm thinks about the success of its goal, then definitely it should increase the employee productivity along with performance improvement. The business should always be traced back with motivated employees, so that productivity can be increased and goal can be achieved certainly. A team with members aligning the purpose, sense of fellowship, challenging role, committing with responsibility, then their will be a growth for successful team.

More number of institutions is providing the corporate team building for youth and adults in required style, format and consistency. Special events, workshops, games, seminars and other activities are conducted to encourage the level of people. Leadership skill, communication skill, management skill and business skill are necessary skills for an employee which should be initiated properly. In an organization, the people are required to lead, manage the task assigned and decisions need to be facilitated. The more flexible an employee, it will be more easy for the group to move along the roles, responsibility and achievement of goal.

Improving the leadership skill enhances the person to lead the group effectively, efficiently for achieving good results. It is considered to be one of the important or useful tools to improve the company productivity, profit and empowerment for long term. Also, it helps to develop communication, voluntary participation, interruption with other members of the company. When they have clear terms with regards to all possibilities in life, then their will be result of successful team building.

About the Author:

Shijina is a SEO copywriter for Corporate Team Building. She has written various articles like Team building activities, Team building activities ideas, Team building event and more. For more information visit our site our site. Contact her through mail at shijinaseo@gmail.com.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/team-building-articles/team-building-enhances-motivation-skill-389375.html

The Importance of Career Planning

Planning your career is a wholly worthwhile step to ensure your future happiness. Enjoying your work, the environment you work in and your duties is essential if you are to have a fulfilling career ahead. If you have a strong idea of the direction you would like your career to head in, it’s a good idea to take some time out in order to think through what will be needed to make your career plans flourish. The average working week in the UK lasts for 43.2 hours. As your work is a fundamental aspect of your life, the decisions you make will inevitably impact on your lifestyle and happiness, so forward-planning can only enrich your career, helping you to hit your personal targets. It’s wise to get started as soon as you have a concrete idea of where you would like to be in the future.There are numerous points to consider, from those that may seem trivial to those which are absolutely essential.

Enjoyment

Critical to your happiness is whether you enjoy of your job. Think about the elements of your employment which bring you the greatest satisfaction and which gain you the biggest plaudits. Is it possible to move into a similar role with a stronger focus on the elements you enjoy the most? Employers will generally prefer to play to your strengths rather than have you perform a job you’re unhappy doing. If you need experience in an area which you know you will find challenging and fun, mention it in an appraisal. This could result in an enriched and ultimately more satisfying role for you.

Industry Fit

The atmosphere and environment of offices from sector to sector can vary enormously. For example: a company in the media sector is more likely to have a more relaxed, dress-down environment than a City based brokers, simply because this industry demands a certain kind of behaviour. Different industries have different etiquette and it’s very important to ensure that you choose the right industry for you. You know your own personality better than any recruiter, so do some research on the kinds of environment that might suit you and ask your friends about the feeling in their offices.

Skills & Qualifications

When checking that your CV is up to date, have a look at the skills and qualifications you have listed. These are your personal assets and there is always room to build on your existing abilities. A ‘skills audit’ will allow you to see what might stand as a barrier to your progression. A skills audit involves breaking down all of your qualifications and past training as well as skills you have acquired through your day-to-day work. Putting them down on paper will enable you to see exactly which areas you can improve upon and where training will improve your chances of finding the role you desire. To step up from a junior role in any profession may require a qualification or some in-house training. Have a look online at the kinds of industry qualifications that are available in your sector and then take a look at the roles which demand them. You will probably notice that the salaries for those roles take a leap up upon qualification. Again, speak to your Manager about the possibility of your current workplace sponsoring your study. After all, your newfound skills are as much a benefit to them as to yourself.

Practical Work Experience

Many roles will list demonstrable work experience among the criteria in the job specification. If the criteria is impossible for you to match within your current role, think about where you might be able to gain the kind of experience that is being demanded. If this means a change of role, think carefully about your willingness to make the change. In some sectors, particularly in the creative field, unpaid work experience is unfortunately the only option. If you’re determined to succeed, it may be possible to save the money required or even take on part time work to ensure you gain a foothold in your desired area. Keep in mind that the financial stress of unpaid work can be quite a load to bear, so think also about the period of time you would be able to sustain such work.

Family and Lifestyle

It may not seem particularly relevant, but at some point your family status will affect the work you plan to do. A good example might be a role which would require a great deal of travel, as this could eventually affect your home life. Other aspects of your working life that may impact upon your family life might be the location of your workplace in relation to your family home - a long commute can become a source of anxiety for some. The hours you work will also make a difference to your presence at home, while your salary will obviously impact upon your family. Though it may seem far off, it’s wise to give this some thought before embarking on your new career path.

Long term goals

If you wish to retire comfortably and at a younger age than most, the planning you make early in your career will be pivotal to the enjoyment of your retirement years. Take some time to think about timescales and your long-term goals. When are they achievable by? What progress will you have to make to reach that kind of success?

Perhaps your aim is to own your own successful company by a certain age? Again, it’s necessary to consider what kind of capital you will require to finance this start-up; how you will gain that money; and where you will gain the skills to get that company up and running.Planning your career may seem a daunting prospect at first. Bear in mind that the plans you make now are flexible and are simply a way of ensuring that you get the best from yourself and make full use of the resources available to you. Remember that if you can plan for a successful future, it’s easier to make it happen.

This article is free for republishing - One link must be active. © 2008 Simon Dance

About the Author:

Witan Jardine are a leading recruitment agency in London specialising in accounting jobs in banking and recruitment consultant jobs in London .

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/recruitment-articles/the-importance-of-career-planning-443824.html

Hotel Jobs in Dubai Are Great Career Opportunities For Expats

You won't have to worry too much about being a foreign worker in a strange land, anxious about standing out since most of Dubai's workforce is composed of expats anyway. Do you want in a hotel in Dubai? Then consider the following tips to improve your chances.

- Do your research. Read up on which hotels or resorts have job vacancies by searching the Internet or hotel industry-related magazines. Classified ads usually describe what the job involves, so you don't have to waste time trying to figure out whether you'll be right for a certain position. You can submit your CV or resume to hotel websites or to job agencies. However, make sure that the recruitment agency you are doing business with is a legitimate, licensed company or organization. There are so many scammers out there who will charge you a placement fee and then disappear once you give them your money.

- Broaden your horizons. If you have past experience as a valet, why not consider something slightly different, like being part of the front desk reception staff? But don't get carried away; you can't expect to be considered for the position of executive chef if your background in the hotel industry is in housekeeping. If you want a higher-paying hotel job, make sure you have the necessary qualifications for your application to be considered seriously.

- Remain open-minded about job positions. Did you know that members of a hotel's service staff make a lot of money even if they aren't paid large salaries? This is because they receive plenty of tips from guests, or enjoy a share of a hotel's service charge. These extras add up to a sizable amount, so much so that their wages seem insignificant in comparison. If a management position is your ultimate goal, then you can always work your way up.

- Learn the ins and outs of living and working in Dubai. Don't make the mistake of thinking that you can act in any way you see fit in any given situation. For all its modernity and cosmopolitan feel, Dubai is still an Islamic nation (though perhaps one of the least rigorous), and there are rules and procedures concerning behavior that should be observed and followed. You shouldn't be ignorant about local customs and etiquette; it might breed ill will and cost you your job. One of the best things you can do is to read about the experiences of expats who are already living and working in Dubai. Learn from their insights about what life is like for a foreigner there.

Working in hotels in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE can be an enriching experience - personally, professionally, and economically. Here's to your success in finding excellent hotel jobs in Dubai!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lizza_Vanderbilt

Job Search Strategies - Effective Company Research

Doing a little bit of company research is a very easy way to help yourself stand out from the competition in your job search. These seven tips will to use company research to get a big jump on your competition.

1. Ideally you should research the company before you apply for the job.

When you learn a bit about the company's products and services and typical customer base, you'll be able to edit your resume so that it shows that your skills and experience truly meet the needs of the company. You'll also be able to write a highly targeted cover letter that addresses the company's main needs and concerns. Very few people target their resumes and cover letters in this way, so it's a very easy way to put yourself well ahead of the competition.

2. If you are applying to an advertised job, and all you have is a fax number, and no company name, you still might be able to determine the company name so you can target your resume and cover letter.

Try using a reverse fax directory. Some online phone directories will allow you to do a reverse search in which you enter a phone or fax number and the directory will provide the name of the company that is connected with this number. You may need to try a few directories because some directories with this function only work for phone numbers. If you use this strategy to discover the company name, it's fine to name the company when you write your cover letter.

3. If that fails, try a little bit of detective work.

If you only have a fax number, and you've tried step two without any results, try a little more sleuthing. Since you have a fax number, you have an area code, so you'll at least know the city where the company is located. There's a good chance, based on the information in the ad or the type of job that's available, you'll also know the type of industry the company is involved in.

With that information, go to your local library (or go online) and get a business directory for the appropriate city. Look up the companies that are listed under the appropriate industry. Their fax numbers will be listed in the directory, so just keep looking until you find a fax number that matches the one in the ad, and you'll know the company you are applying to. Because you've narrowed your options down to a specific industry in a specific city, you shouldn't have to look through a lot of listings to find the one with a matching fax number.

4. Don't waste your time.

If tips number 2 and 3 don't turn up any results and you still don't know the name of the company, go ahead and write your resume and cover letter without doing specific company research. No one else will have gone this far to try to research the company, so if you haven't found the company name, no one else will either.

5. Use a variety of sources for your research.

The Internet, libraries, business directories, industry contacts and community employment offices can all provide great leads on information about the companies that interest you.

6. You don't have to memorize a million facts and figures about a company.

Once you get to the job interview stage of your job search, it's important to go in knowing a few things about the company. However, you don't have to memorize endless facts. Be sure you understand the major products and or services the company offers, know who are their primary customers or clients, read the mission statement to get a sense of the company's stated goals and priorities and understand, in general, where the company fits within the industry and in relation to its competitors. If you know these few things about a company, you will know far more than the vast majority of the other people who are competing for the job.

7. Do it!

Most people have heard the advice the you must research a company at least before a job interview and ideally before submitting a resume. Very few people actually do it. If you were ever responsible for hiring new staff yourself, you were probably amazed at how many people come into an interview knowing very little about the company. Conducting company research is not difficult, and it quickly put you above your competition in the eyes of employers.

By: Lisa McGrimmon

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Lisa McGrimmon writes about making smart career choices and conducting an effective job search at Career Choice Guide. For more tips on preparing for a job interview, please visit her site.