A resume objective statement, while an optional section of your resume, can be a powerful tool for job seekers if it used to its full potential. Strong objectives indicate how you will be of value to the company in one clear and concise statement. It tells potential employers your purpose or goal by applying to their company, and indicates the direction you want your career to go.

The decision to include an objective is not one to be taken lightly, since a weak or ineffectual objective will detract from the entire resume. In fact, many recruiters feel it is better to exclude an objective entirely than to include a weak statement or one that is too generalized. As a rule, individuals who are applying for non-traditional positions such as internships or co-ops, those with limited professional work experience, and those who are seeking to break into a new career or field stand to benefit the most from the inclusion of an objective statement on their resumes. In these instances, the objective will allow employers to immediately identify the type of position you are seeking and clarify your intent and interest in the organization. However, if you are using your resume for a more general purpose such as a job fair, employment agency submission, or website job board posting, it does not make sense to include an objective that will limit your options. Other individuals will need to make a personal decision as to the value an objective statement will add to their resume.

If included, the objective appears at the top of your resume, right beneath your contact information. An objective will typically address one or more of the following areas:

1. The type of position desired - Are you seeking an internship, a part-time, or a full-time position? Is your goal an entry-level, experienced, or supervisory position?

2. The actual name or title of the position you desire - Are you applying for the Administrative Assistant or the Technical Services Manager opening?

3. Is there a specific environment, industry, or field that you are targeting?

4. Any skills you hope to utilize in a new position

Since the purpose of an objective is to direct employees as to your specific goals within their organization and indicate how you will add value, it may be necessary to tailor your objective to each individual position. Objectives that are vague and non-specific are useless, so if you are not able to identify a specific goal or value in your objective, do not include it on the resume.

Read More...

Has this ever happened to you: You have been working at a particular job for a few years. It's not the greatest job and it hasn't always allowed you to capitalize on your unique gifts or talents. But it's ok, and it pays the bills. The job has become a part of your life's routine.

Then one day, without any forewarning, you're let go. In what seems like a split second, you go from being gainfully employed to joining the ranks of the unemployed. It's a shock to the system.

A tremendous level of stress can accompany being unemployed. You're certainly affected by the loss of income. You may also have a related drop in your level of confidence. Your unemployment may be impacting your home life and personal relationships. There may be a degree of depression that you are dealing with. You may be harboring lingering resentments toward those people responsible for your layoff.

Finding a job is challenging enough; if you bring these emotions into your job search efforts, you will be placing yourself in a very disadvantageous position. You need to be clear-headed and focused to move yourself forward. You must find a way to bring yourself into a more balanced state.

Realizing that you are not alone may be a good first step. Renewing or maintaining friendships is another. Appreciating yourself in every way possible goes a long way. Relaxation exercises, deep breathing, yoga, meditation, working out, and eating healthier foods can make you feel a lot better about yourself.

These steps can help you move past any negative emotions and toward a much healthier mental state. Having a clear and positive vision for yourself and your future may be the icing on the cake needed to launch your job search process and move you quickly in the direction of obtaining your career goals.

You need to know that you will get through this. You will get on the other side of it. It may take some time, and it may not be the most comfortable period in your life. But your willingness to move forward and your intention to stay on track will invariably lead you to the next phase of your career, and life.

Remember, when one door closes, a better and brighter one opens in its place. When a layoff occurs, know that you invariably will face new opportunities that can truly transform your life.

Read More...

INTRODUCTION

This article will prepare you for the difficult task of job hunting. Not only will it show you how to get a job but it will show you how to keep your job and get the most out of it. You will be able to use the most modern psychological measures in dealing with other people so that you are always ahead. Follow the instruction in this book and see yourself go to the top.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR JOB HUNTING

Know What You Want

You should be perfectly clear of what you want. Don't give yourself vague objectives such as "any job that pays." Make your objectives and goals very definite and specific. Your first step to getting a successful job is knowing precisely what you want. Ask yourself this question and write down the answer on a sheet of paper.

Expect The Best But Prepare For Adversity

Always expect success, but prepare for the bad things in life. Adversity happens to the best of us. Our challenge is to conquer adversity. Adversity is a great teacher; learn its lessons well. Remember, if you haven't been through bad times, you are far from success.

Be Positive

When you create a "win,win, win" attitude, you will start to win. When you start to think positively, everything around you will be positive. Whatever you expect to take place will take place. If you want things to be good, they will be good. You are the master of your destiny. Destiny DOES NOT rule you.

Be Confident

You must have confidence in yourself. If you are not confident in yourself, people will not be confident in you. People admire and respect confident people. You will even admire and respect yourself more. If you have doubts about yourself, other people will have doubts about you, also.

Action Is The Key

Do whatever you have to do to get where you want to. Commit yourself to action. Don't put off your plans, start today. The only way you will achieve success is if you act now. You must act now with full force if you want to achieve your dreams. Plan to act out your ideas today.

Visualize Your New Job

Look ahead and visualize the job you want. Tell yourself how much you want the job and what you are willing to do for it. Your dreams will become your reality if you let them. Know what your dreams are. Visualize success in your mind so well that it is almost real.

Be Persistent

Be persistent to do better. Anything worth doing is worth doing again and again and again. Don't let rejection stop you from reaching your goals. Keep trying and you will succeed. Nobody makes it the first time. Try over and over again and don't stop until you get what you want. There is no going back.

It's Going To Cost You

Nobody gets a free ride. If you want something, you must pay for it. It is going to be hard to get what you want, but it will be well worth it when you are successful. The best things in life are the hard things.

Other People Can help You

People will help you to get where you want to go. You will never make it alone easily. People can teach you and help you become a better person. Listen to other people--you will learn from them. If someone helps you, don't forget to reward him.

Demand A Lot

When you demand a lot, you get a lot. Your expectations of others and yourself will become a reality if you expect them to be real. What you expect to happen, will happen. If you push yourself hard, you will start to see results. demand and you will receive.

WHERE TO LOOK FOR A JOB

Look through the help and want ads of newspapers and professional and trade journals. Find out where government jobs are listed and then try out for a state, local or federal job. Check with your state employment center--it may be able to get you a lead. Most schools have job placement centers, check with them. The secretaries of civic organizations and the Chamber of Commerce may have some leads for you You may be able to get a job by going to a job fair. If you are a minority or need special assistance, you may be able to get help finding a job from special interest groups. Check at your public library for further information.

Where You Can get Job Leads

Trade conventions and organizations that relate to your field may be able to get you job leads. Ask relatives and friends if they can furnish you with any leads in your field. Place a job ad in newspapers or professional journals.

YOUR RESUME

A resume is helpful for any type of professional job you are trying out for. A good and effective resume will lead you to personal interviews.

Preparing Your Resume

You must write down a collection of all the information about yourself on a sheet of paper. After all of this information is organized, transfer it to a resume. Only use the training and experience that are relevant to the job which you are applying. Write down all the information that relates to your goal on your data sheet. When you are mentioning jobs that are unrelated to the job you are applying for, be brief. Tell your prospective employer anything and everything that's in your favor and will interest him. Arrange the information so it catches your prospective employer's attention.

To determine what you should put in the beginning of your resume, think of what your potential employer will feel is important. You can organize your experience by job or by function. Your resume should be detailed enough to give an employer all the important facts on you, but it should not be too long or an employer may not read it. Employers are busy people and they want the facts in a few words as possible. When writing out your resume, don't mention anything negative about yourself. If you have never had any work experience and the job calls for work experience,should you put "none" in that section of your resume? No. If you have never had nay previous work experience, don't even include work experience.

Make Your Resume Impressive

Your resume must be typed on a good typewriter. Remember, when a prospective employer looks at a resume he subconsciously relates the quality of your resume with the quality of your work. It is the only thing he sees of you. The most impressive resumes are not five-color jobs on 20-cent paper. If your resume is too flashy, your prospective employer may not be too impressed. Don't pass out carbon copies of your resume because they look cheap and they tell an employer that you gave the original to someone else. Research has shown that resumes printed on yellow paper with brown ink are the most effective. If you don't want to print your resumes, just photocopy them on fancy yellow paper to give them that quality touch.

THE INTERVIEW

What You Should Bring To The Job Interview

Organize and prepare all the papers you will need with you at your job interview. Your main document is your resume. If you don't have a resume, take instead your school records, Social Security card, work records, licenses, military records, dates of employment and names of your employers.

Your References

It is also important to create a list of references. Be prepared to give an employer the names and addresses of three people who are familiar with you and/or your work. You should ask your references for the use of their names in advance. If you think it appropriate, ask a professional friend or former employer to write you a letter of reference, and include it with your resume. If your work is the type of work you can show, take samples of what you have done in the past.

Know The Company And The Employer

Learn all you can about the company that is interviewing you. Go to the library or your Chamber of Commerce to find out all you can about it. Try to find out exactly what they do and what they have in store for you as far as jobs are concerned. Find out who you will be working for. The person you will be working for will be very influential in your life. Make sure you really want to work for this person. If your future boss doesn't tell you about himself at the interview, don't ask.

Know How Much You Should Earn

Know how much you should earn with your talents and skills. Make your estimate a little higher so the company benefits when they bid you down. Don't go too high or you won't get the job. Know approximately what the salary scale is for the job and be ready to negotiate the salary.

Know Yourself

It is important that you know yourself. Evaluate what you can offer this company, whether it is education, training or special skills. Always tell them what you can do, not what you can't do. Know exactly what type of job you are applying for and what type of job you want.

Know Your Interviewer

Prepare yourself for the questions for the questions the interviewer is going to ask you. You should rehearse answers to the most commonly asked questions. Have some one ask you these questions to practice your answers:

Why do you want to work here? how long do you want to stay with this company? Why did you leave your last job? Tell me about yourself. Why aren't you working now? How long do you think you would stay in this present job without a promotion? Why should we hire you? What is your greatest strength/weakness? What did you like/dislike about your last job? How much did you earn? How much do you want to earn? Why do you think you can do this job without experience?

Your Time

Make sure you are at least 10 minutes early for the scheduled appointment. Don't come too early or too late. Give yourself enough time to spend with the interviewer--don't arrange another appointment 15 minutes after the first appointment. Your time with the interviewer should be uninterrupted.

Your Appearance And Dress

Don't wear too casual or too formal clothing to the interview. Dress conservatively without flashy colors. Be well groomed and shave for your interview. Women should make sure thy look very neat. Hair should not be in the face, it should be up or tied back. Makeup should be subtle. The way you look is very important to your interviewer. If your appearance is bad for the interview, that is the impression an employer will have of your job performance. Neat appearance is always a must.

What To Do At The Interview

When you shake an employer's hand, shake it firm, solid grip. Don't shake his hand passively. Be businesslike but pleasant and friendly. Smile throughout the whole interview. Make sure your smile does not look fake. Good eye contact is very important. If you can't look into his eyes, look at the bridge of his nose. This will seem as if you are looking into his eyes. Sit straight up but toward the interviewer. This will make it seem as if you are very interested in what the interviewer has to say. Don't smoke or have poor posture during the interview. If you are under stress, try to act calm.

What To Say At The Interview

Let the employer take charge of the interview. Answer his questions briefly but completely. Don't ramble on about unimportant things and waste his time. Dogmatic statements should be avoided. Tell the employer exactly what you expect from your job and from him. Also tell him exactly what he can expect from you. Stress your qualifications in a positive, affirmative tone. When the employer tells you what type of person is wanted, use this information when telling the employer about your qualifications. It is very important to tell him what he wants to hear. When you tell people what they want to hear, they start to agree with you. Don't over do it and exaggerate with lies. Use your resume or records to support any claim you make about yourself. If you don't understand a question the interviewer asks you, repeat it back to him to see if you understand it. Try to see what the interviewer wants to find out about you. If you know what he wants to find out, make you answers fit his needs.

What Not To Say And Do At The Interview

Talk about previous jobs if they are in your favor. Don't say anything bad or criticize previous employers or fellow workers. If you say anything bad about anyone, your future employer can expect trouble from you. Don't say anything negative about yourself. Try not to discuss anything personal, financial or domestic unless you are specifically asked. If the interviewer questions you at a quick pace with confusing questions,he is doing this to put you under stress. Stay in control and answer calmly. Don't be overly impatient when an employer asks you a question. Wait for him to finish the question and then answer it completely and in a relaxed manner. You don't want an employer to think you are desperate for the job. Don't take anyone with you to the interview--this makes you seem insecure.

At The End Of The Interview

If the employer does not offer you the job at the end of the interview, ask him when you will hear from him or when you can call to find out his decision. If you are asked to come back, write down the time and place you are to attend. After the interview thank the employer for spending his time with you. Ask him if he knows of any other company that may need a person with your qualifications. A good practice is to also thank the employer by mail with a "thank you" letter. Many applicants don't do this, so this may give you an edge on the job.

If You Are Hired At The Interview

Make sure that you understand what your duties will be. A good understanding of what your employer expects from you and what you expect from your job will prevent conflicts in the future. Make sure that you are very clear on both of them. You should also find out what advancement opportunities are open for you. Tell the employer what salary you want, but only bring up money when the employer brings up your salary.

If, at the end of the interview, you are not offered the job, tell the interviewer that you really want the job. Follow up with a thank you letter to the interviewer. Tell the interviewer again in the note that you really want the job. If you forgot to mention something in the interview that you thought was important, don't hesitate to mention it in the letter. If the company hasn't contacted you in a week or two,call. If somebody else is hired for the job ask the interviewer if he has any other openings in his company or if he can give you any leads.

WHAT YOU NEED TO GET THAT RAISE

Make The First Move

Don't wait for someone else to tell you what to do. Upper management admires an individual who takes initiative. Develop your individual talents. Educate yourself with new skills and knowledge. Show them that you are a real "go getter."

Make Quick Decisions

Teach yourself to make quick, intelligent decisions. Being indecisive will hurt you. Anyone can make good, quick decisions--it is just a matter of training yourself. Intuitive instincts must be developed.

Seek More Responsibility

Take on the tougher assignments. Actively seek more difficult work with added responsibility. Take on all the responsibility you can handle. Try to take the added responsibilities in addition to your assigned work, The greater your responsibilities, the more you are an asset to management.

Increase Your Interests

The more you know, the more valuable you are to the company you work for. Go to night classes or just read books that will give you that added education. Increase your interest in things that will help your company. Specializing in as many things as you can will help you move up in a company.

Take The Risk

Nothing comes easily. Moving up in a company is going to be hard but rewarding. If you expect to move up, you must take chances. It is the little risks in life that give us the most advancement. If you don't stick your neck out, your chances of moving up are slim.

Know Your Company

Find out everything you can about the company you work for. Understand and know your company. Study and learn the jobs of your fellow workers. Understand what they do and why they do it. Always try to increase your knowledge.

Know Your Boss

Find out what type of qualities your boss and upper management are looking for in employees. Try to develop those qualities.

Be Good At Your Job

Management always admires people who are efficient at their jobs. Keep the highest possible level of production and quality every day. Be so good at your job that you can do it without close supervision. Don't fool around on the job, regardless of what other employees do.

Know Your Goal

You Should know exactly what position you want. Be the person they want if you want that position. Make sure you can do all that is required.

Devote Yourself To Your Company

You should have a strong sense of loyalty and devotion toward your company. Show the company that you care about its well being. Don't disagree with company policies. Even if you disagree with them, obey them. The best that you can do is to agree with the policies and tell management diplomatically how you feel about them.

Be Reliable

Being reliable is very important. A company wants to fell secure with your contribution to the company. Don't be late or absent from work without a very good reason.

Make Sure Your Accomplishments Are Seen

There is nothing wrong with letting others know what you have accomplished, as long as long as you don't brag. If the opportunity arises for recognition, take it. Make sure others know what you have done. A good suggestion is to jot down your accomplishments in a dairy. When you asks for raise, refer to your dairy. Keep all your recommendations and awards in a file.

Be A Problem-Solver

Look for problems in your company. Devise practical and intelligent solutions to these problems. Bring the problem to the attention of your boss only after you have solved it and have all the details of the solution.

After-Work Activities

If overtime work is needed, don't ever decline or avoid it. Volunteer for committees, and then work hard for them so they meet their objectives.

Voice Your Opinion

When you speak up, make sure that your opinion is well thought out. Don't whine to your boss. Talk things out with him. Tell him what you have to say and then listen to him. Speak to your boss loudly, clearly and specifically. Don't voice a vague opinion--tell him in specific terms exactly what is bothering you.

Ask For A Raise

When you feel you are ready for a raise and you have fulfilled all the requirements I have pointed out, ask for one.

HOW TO GET A RAISE

Know Company Policies

Understand your company's policy on salaries and raises. You may have to be with the company a specified length of time to get a raise. Find out how long and act at the right time. If you are getting the maximum salary for your position, you may ask for a promotion or a re-classification. Do everything you can after studying the company policy book.

Know The Decision-Maker

You have to convince the person who has the authority to give raises that you deserve one. If that person is above your boss, prepare to convince your boss and his superiors that you deserve a raise.

Do You Deserve A Raise?

You must find out if you deserve a raise. Only after you are sure you deserve one will others be sure you do. Rate yourself. Try to look at yourself through your boss's and your fellow workers' eyes. Do they think you deserve a raise?

How To Justify A Raise

Tell them about your accomplishments that helped the company. Show them how much you saved the company through your actions. Get to know what your skills are worth for another company in the same area. Present your company with that information. Present it to them in a very non-agressive manner. tell the company what you will be able to do for them in the future. Tell them how you will benefit the company with your new raise. tell them how your value has increased since you have been with the company. Don't mention anything about your personal needs for the money.

Be Able To Handle Rejection

If you are rejected for a raise, be able to cope with it. Deal with the rejection before you ask your boss for a raise so you will know how to handle the situation. Remember, expect the best prepare for the worst.

Know What You Want

Before you speak to your boss know exactly how much more money you expect, both in terms of dollars and percentage. If you know your boss will negotiate with you, ask for more than you actually want. In this way you will get what you want or more.

When Should You Ask For A Raise?

Make an appointment with your boss. Don't ask him for a raise as he is passing in the hallway. Don't ask to see your boss on busy Mondays or Fridays.

Be Prepared For Criticism

You may be criticized for not performing "up to par" now. Don't let this criticism upset you, let it help you. You can learn from this criticism by asking for more feedback from your boss. Ask your boss how you can improve yourself. Ask him for suggestions. Always be willing to negotiate with your boss. He may only give you a bonus instead of a raise. Take it and ask for a raise later.

Handling Your Boss's feedback

Get an immediate answer from your boss if he has the power to give you the raise. If he can't give the answer to you now, ask him when he can. If he tells you he can't give you a raise ask him why. Ask him what he would require from you before you got a raise, his suggestions, what needs improvement, etc. Do what he tells you to do for a raise and, when you have satisfied his needs, ask him again. If you plan to quit if you don't get a raise, don't threaten your boss. You want your boss's good reference later if and when you do quit.

HOW TO MASTER THE ART OF COMPROMISE

In many cases all you will be able to get by being persistent is a compromise. Compromises are good. They get you one step[ further that you were in the first place. If for some reason, such as self-respect, you can't accept a compromise, then don't. Give whatever you can offer. If you do this you may not get any type of settlement in your favor. Here are steps that will show you how to compromise so that you get the best of the bargain:

Tell The Person Exactly What You Want

Tell the person exactly what you want in terms he will understand: "I want more..."

Persist

You must get past the other's person's excuses and alibis. You must be persistent until you fell you have hit the other person's bottom line. You may find that the other person is trying to manipulate you. Be persistent until that person has stopped all his manipulation.

If You Are Unsure

If you don't know what they want, then don't make a decision. You must think the situation over before you make a compromise. If you need more time, tell the other person that you need more time. Make sure that you can live with the compromise you have made before you make it.

HOW TO DEAL WITH USELESS CRITICISM

Some criticism you get is in poor taste. We must know how to deal with criticism such as: "You look terrible today" or, "You left this in my way, you idiot." Make sure this kind of criticism useless, follow these steps.

Agree With The Facts

Agree with the facts the other person presents. For example, in response to "You look terrible today," say, "I haven't been feeling too well lately"; in response to "You left this in my way you idiot," say, "Yes, I did leave it in your way." Answer only what was actually said, not what was implied.

How To Answer

Stay calm and collected during the whole conservation. Don't lose your temper. The only way a person will make you feel degraded is if you degrade yourself. You don't want to waste your time which this type of person, so don't defend yourself or attack him.

If You Made A Mistake

If you made a mistake, accept that fact. Don't accept the quilt for the mistake. If you were in error, then apologize. If you apologize, don't make a big thing out of it. Don't tell them how dreadfully sorry you are, etc. Just give them a plain "I'm sorry."

HOW TO DEAL WITH IMPORTANT CRITICISM

When you get important criticism, you want to know how to get the best out of it. Useful criticism is one of the best ways to make yourself into a better person. Follow these steps to get the most out of useful criticism.

Ask For Feedback

Find out exactly what others object to about you. If someone tells you "You are bad," that's not good enough. Find out exactly why that person thinks that way. Be very persisent--find out why the other person feels the way he does. Vague criticism is worthless to you.

Guess At Reason

If a person refuses to give you reasons for criticizing you, keep guessing at your faults until you get the right one. This may be the only way to find out what displeases the other person.

Don't Be Defensive

If you act defensively, you may not be able to benefit from useful criticism. Don't be sarcastic or intimidate the other person. You want to learn how to become a better person from the criticism.

Ask the person how you can change your objectionable behavior; be open to reasonable suggestions.

HOW TO GET YOUR CO-WORKERS AND YOUR SUPERIORS TO LIKE YOU

Good relations with your co-workers and your superiors will not only help you but will make work more enjoyable. Every employee wants to be liked by other employees. If you treat people the way they want to be treated, they will like you. Some of us don't know if what we do is objectionable to others. I am going to give you a list of things that attract other people to you and things they find objectionable. When you move up in the company, you will need all the support you can get.

Praise People

Everybody enjoys being praised. People look for approval of themselves in others. But you should praise people only when they deserve it. If you praise people when they don't deserve it, or if you praise too much, you lose your credibility. Don't exaggerate your praise. Make the praise as warm and sincere as you can.

Don't Put People Down

Putting down a person can be very damaging to you and the other person's relationship wit you. People don't want to feel degraded by being called stupid, crazy, weird, etc. Don't put down anyone even if they are not present. If you do, the word will get back to them and you will look bad. Always talk positively about people. Even if you don't like them, still speak highly of them--you will be amazed at what this does. If you must say something bad, don't say anything at all.

Don't Be Concerned With Your Interests ONly

There is nothing wrong with caring and looking out for yourself. Just don't make it noticeable to other people. You will be resented by other people if you seem selfish. Make sure others know you look out for them as well yourself.

Share The Credit

When others have helped you accomplish something, share the credit with them. Even if their contribution was not as great as yours, still share the credit with them. You will be surprised

Don't Ask Others To Do For You What You Won't Do For Them

If you are unwilling to go out of your way for people, don't expect them to go out of their way for you. Set the first example--if you help them, they will help you.

Always Show Appreciation

Everyone wants approval and recognition for what they have done. If someone helps you in any way, tell him how much you appreciate his actions. If you don't, he may not help you again. This is what you should tell people when you show your appreciation: "I really appreciate the way you..."; "Thank you very much for..."; "You are very good at...": "I really want to tell you how much I appreciated..."; "You were very nice to..." Don't show too much approval and recognition or it will lose its credibility.

Don't "Show Up" Others

When you "show up" others you do it at their expense. "Showing up" people in front of others takes away their self-respect. If you are better than others, they will know it--you don't have to degrade them.

Treat Small Things With Importance

Some things that seem small to you mean a great deal to others. Don't ignore small problems; help people solve them. Treating small problems with importance shows other people you care.

Care About People

Everybody is concerned about themselves and it is important for them to have someone to care for them. They are touched when you care about them. Helping people cope with life makes people feel that you care about them.

Don't Criticize A Person In Front Of Others

If you criticise someone in front of others, he will always resent you. It is one of the most degrading things you can do. If you criticize someone, criticize him constructively and privately.

Give People Your Undivided Attention

All people want to fell important. To make a person feel important you must give him your undivided attention when communicating with him. Get rid of all interruptions. Make sure you have good eye contact and that you are not playing with objects.

Be Courteous, Tactful, Polite and Diplomatic

Everyone appreciates people who are courteous,tactful, polite and diplomatic. The best way to learn these qualities is from others. Study someone you would like to be like and learn how he conducts himself.

Be Confident

If you don't have confidence in yourself, others will not have confidence in you, either. People admire and respect confident people. If you show others doubt, they will treat you with doubt. Be sure of yourself and play down your insecurities.

Conclusion

Getting a job can be very easy if you look for it the right way. Knowing exactly what you want and then going after it will always get you what you want. Be positive, determined and persistent so that you will benefit, be rewarded and prosper.

Read More...

A sample job acceptance letter should be kept on the computer of job seekers to be customized for a new situation and used when it is needed. A job seeker should also know how to use it, and when to use it. With that in mind, a sample letter follows.

Date Name of Hiring Manager Company Address City Zip

Dear Hiring Manager's name,

It is with great enthusiasm that I accept your offer for employment with Xyz Company. I look forward to a long and mutually profitable relationship, and will do my best to live up to the faith that you have shown in me through your decision to invite me to become a part of the team here at Xyz.

I'm excited about the prospect of contributing to the great success the company has had and look forward to this opportunity. You will recall that my experience includes sales, marketing and business management. I'm sure my skills will translate well to the excellent environment at Xyz.

Again, I thank you for your time, for the confidence you've placed in me, and for this wonderful opportunity to join the team.

Sincerely, 

The Guru 

You'll notice that this sample letter is short and to the point. It thanks the person who did the hiring without being sloppy or overly sentimental. It also congratulates the hiring manager on making a wise decision and choosing the right person, but in a way that is matter of fact, and does not seem like bragging.

It is always a good idea to keep your acceptance letter based on factual, short, precise, and a bit formal. You are in the early stages of the work relationship you are forming at this new company, and want to put your best foot forward. This letter will help you do that. You'll probably be excited and nervous after being accepted for the new position, and writing a sample letter before you are hired will allow you to do your writing with a clear mind, undistracted by concerns about what you will wear that day, or anything that came up in the conversation. Using a letter like this is an example of doing your homework and being a smart job seeker. In fact, you should also keep a sample cover letter, sample follow up letter, and a sample thank you letter for after the interview in your documents folder of your computer, ready to customize as the need arises.

Smart job seekers do everything they can to present themselves in the best possible light. That extra effort is what makes the difference between a low paying job with little satisfaction and a well paying start at a new career. Using samples of these documents you'll use in a job search just makes sense and will help you on your way to that satisfying new career.

Read More...

Let's just face it: the job market can be a very tough place to compete in. In order to survive in today's job market, people often resort to artificially "inflating" their resumes with little "white lies". Chances are, you're also thinking of doing the same.

Well, as tempting as it may be, you do NOT want to risk lying on your resume.

Whether it's personal information, job experience, or schooling - employers are finding new ways to sniff out liars and you don't want to be one of them.

Job Experience - Clearly this is not the place to boast about fake employment as you are going to list the businesses you worked for which may be contacted for verification. As this is the most likely area your interviewer will do a check on, avoid misrepresenting yourself at all costs.

Education - Think that nobody will notice if you slip in an education you don't really have? Perhaps you do have the skills, but you can't afford to claim education you can't provide proof of. There are new services that will allow employers to have background checks - similar to criminal or credit checks - to verify your claim.
Personal Information - While some information may not be easily verified, information such as a criminal record, can be very costly to you in the event it is checked out. You can never guarantee that an employer won't be able to find the information, even if your employer is hiring you for domestic work and is not a business.

On the other hand, how can you create a resume that will highlight your skills and abilities without needing to lie? Below are some suggestions:

1. Give Proof Of Skills Gained. Your skills in the workforce can be weighty indicators of your ability to work in a given job. You may not know what an employer is looking for. With many jobs that don't require a particular expertise, you many find that they are looking for people who are able to learn on the job. Proof that you have gained skills as a worker (or even a volunteer if you're just starting out) can be very valuable.

2. Expand Your Descriptions. Do not say 'I worked in an office', rather say 'I was responsible for answering the phones in a professional manner and directing calls to the proper departments. In a busy work environment I was able to multi-task by providing supportive administrative assistance to the head receptionist including maintaining a filing system, processing inter office memos, delivering documents in a timely manner, directing clients to their meeting appointments and providing relief reception. I was quickly able to learn the filing and switchboard systems as well as create good working relationships with fellow staff.'

If you need help you can find software programs which will give you suggestions on wording depending on the position you are describing or you can hire someone who writes resumes to help you.

By avoiding putting "white lies" in your resume and ethically elaborating on your key strengths, you can have confidence that you will get (and keep) your dream job.

Read More...

---------------------------------------------

How To Reach The Top Of The Ladder Of Success

---------------------------------------------

First you must get onto the ladder of Success!

I can think of three ways:

1. Become a top sales-person

2. Become a popular writer

3. Pass exams.

I can only help you with the last two methods.

1. The leader of your country... President or prime minister or dictator (?) reached the top of the ladder of success by being a good salesperson. Perhaps she sold herself to voters. Maybe he sold himself to fighting forces who put him in power.

2. If you're at least 16 years old - Have you learned to write gripping essays? Make money from writing.

You don't need salesmanship to make money - more than enough to pay for sales advisors with your essays.

Why do I say 16 years old? Because Nori's success was bringing her good money at that age from her website.

Nori just wrote essays about her holidays, and took photographs. Google is perfect for this idea. You simply write about 30 interesting essays (pages) before submitting them to Google Adsense. Continued success means keep writing new essays.

----------

Popularity

----------

Is your subject popular enough for hundreds of visitors/day? Look on Overture.com to find out what is the top price for each keyword in your subject. Look for a subject with lots of keywords for which advertisers pay $5 or more per click. Each time your Adsense page gets a click, some of that $5 goes to Google and some goes to you.

So you don't need any salesmanship at all to make money from Google. If you have 500 keywords and write two essays per week you'll finish in...

If you follow your initial success you'll think of other approaches over the years. But meanwhile, you'll make money with your essays.

3. Does this mean that you don't need exams?

No.

a. Passing exams proves you can learn. Study broadens your mind. Writers and salespeople must see other points of view than their own.

b. Even if you fail your exams, your mind has already been broadened. But why not get the credit for your work if you can?

c. Credit - you may be surprised

at the respect you get with a string of letters after your name. You get more respect still from being able to write essays well, but if you have both things going for you...

d. Planning success in employment? You must pass exams.

-------------------

Employers And Exams

-------------------

Why do employers insist on success in exams? They prove you can learn things.

Why do employers require experience? They don't respect what you learned to pass your exams. You learn on the job after passing your exams.

--------------------

Knowledge Not Needed

--------------------

That means that you don't need the knowledge. You need the exam passes. My book about "Exam Mastery" will get you unearned exam success. I've passed several exams without knowing much about the subject.

-----------------------------------------------

Once you're on the employment ladder of success

-----------------------------------------------

Be as cynical about climbing the ladder as I taught you to be in my exam book. Your target was to pass exams, not to gain knowledge. Now your target is to climb the ladder of success, not to give your best work.

1. Read John Molloy's "Dress for Success". Apply it. Life's just as unfair as exams. Your dress shouldn't matter for success, but it does.

2. Study your bosses. Who decides promotions? Interests? Attitudes?

3. Attend all meetings. This takes you from your work, but your target is success. Make your voice heard, using what you learned from my free report about essays. This will

a. give you practice in public speaking and

b. the bosses will notice you. Tailor what you say to your research in step 2.

c. If you get the chance to run a brain-storming session, organise the information on the board as you learned from my book about exams. That impresses bosses.

4. Attend all seminars and study the format. Now use your practice in public speaking to run a seminar. This will really make the bosses sit up and take notice. Make sure to consider step 2 when you're planning your seminar. Use all the tricks in my essays report to make your seminars a success.

When you succeed you will know that you couldn't have reached the top without getting onto the ladder of success.

Read More...

Do you to know how to quit your job without ending up on the street? In a nutshell, you need to avoid the self-employment trap, think like a business, and create multiple passive revenue streams.

Avoid the Self-Employment Trap

If you quit your job and hang up your own shingle, you might work harder for less money. You may enjoy working from home or choosing your own clients, but you might end up living from client to client without building any real wealth.

Many self-employed people I know suffer from feast or famine. They spend lots of time and money marketing their services and get lots of clients. They get really busy doing the work and stop marketing and then their prospective client pool dries up.

If you set up your business so that you do everything - marketing, sales, bookkeeping, operations, and fulfillment, then you are limiting your success potential from day one. You will spend lots of time on non-income generating activities and may get frustrated and burned-out in a short time.

The real key to successfully creating wealth outside of a job is to avoid the mistake of trading one boss for another boss. You need to stop trading your time for dollars. Stop thinking like a wage slave. Look beyond earned income.

Think Like a Business

There are many problems with earned income. The biggest one is that you are trading your time for money. If you stop trading your time, the dollars stop coming. This is a huge problem if you decide to have a baby, get sick, want to take an extended vacation, or are ready to retire.

The IRS penalizes self-employed people who operate as a sole proprietorship with a hefty self-employment tax. How can you avoid this? Well, I am not an accountant or CPA, so I am not giving legal or accounting advice, but I have learned to think like a business. Before you quit your job, interview local tax advisors to educate yourself on different business entities and tax strategies. Start thinking big.

Build a Company with Multiple Passive Income Streams

You need to build a company that works for you. My best advice on how to quit your job is to build a business that offers multiple streams of passive income in addition to your earned income. There are so many exciting ways to design your income portfolio. It requires imagination, courage and planning.

Structure your business so that your daily activities are fun and challenging. Identify the things that you don't enjoy or are not good at and find other people to do these activities - outside partners, independent contractors, or employees.

How to Quit Your Job

My advice for how to quit your job is to avoid thinking that you have to do everything yourself to make your new enterprise run. Think big! Set up systems and structures that work for you so you don't have to work so hard. Incorporate and make the tax system work for you. Design your work around multiple passive income streams to support your active work. And finally, have fun!

Read More...

It is almost time for people who are pursuing higher education to return to their academic careers. Post-secondary education, such as College or University can be a difficult transition for many, who are living away from home for the first time. Students have many things to consider when they decide to live in a student apartment, or off campus. Paying tuition is challenging enough. Students, who live in apartments, or residents, must have enough money to pay for food, tuition, books, clothing, and other daily living expenses. Students living in regular apartments outside of the College or University must contend with paying monthly rent and other crucial utilities as well. In addition, tuition is high, and most students are unable to pay for all of their living and college expenses.

Consequently, living on, or off campus is difficult financially. Most students have to obtain one, or two jobs to pay for their school, and living expenses. Additional tasks, such as achieving high marks, while worrying about earning enough money for food, rent, and other necessities one needs to survive, can lead to stress, and intense loneliness. Moreover, if one is not prepared for this new lifestyle, he or she might feel overwhelmed. How can one prepare for this transition of living, and studying at College or University with minimal stress and difficulties? This is a very important question students must ask, and find answers to suit their lifestyle needs.

When you have been accepted to the college, or University of your choice, discuss a financial plan, and budget with your parents, and financial advisor at your local bank. When you are discussing, and planning your goals, apply for financial assistance for tuition, and books. Financial assistance can be given by obtaining a student loan from your bank, parental assistance, or aid from the academic institution you will be attending. Financial assistance from the previously mentioned institutions and people can help ease the transition, when surviving the rigorous academic, and work schedule in your new life.

When you are buying supplies for school and new home, shop online, or in used book, furniture, and electronic stores for better deals. Don't purchase the first item you see, because you will probably find it cheaper somewhere else. Furniture, or other items you will not need, or have room to store, can be sold at garage sales. Ask your parents for permission to hold this innovative income generator at their house, and have refreshments on hand to give to those who help organize and promote this excellent marketing, and moneymaking opportunity.

If you wish to avoid the busy, and crowded living spaces on campus, look for cheap basement apartments if money is tight. You can find some basement apartment advertisements that include kitchen, bedroom, and small living space for your ten-inch television set, and chair. Renting these apartments can range from cheap, to expensive. Visit the apartment, and discuss with the owner about cost of rent. You should have your parent, or friend accompany you to insure personal safety, and a second opinion about your newly desired home.

Now that you have sold furniture, or other things you don't need to earn extra income, you should consider part-time employment. Student employment opportunities can be found on campus, or in the same neighborhood at the local restaurants, or café. Send these places your resume by e-mail, fax, or regular mail. Campus opportunities can be found on the college, or university website. Look once, or twice a week for new job postings on the institution's website. Register for courses that can be taken when you are off work, or after your busy day at your new job. This will relieve your stress, so you can find time to relax, and experience the social life at College, or University.

College or University should be a time in a young person's life to enjoy their independence. It is also a time in one's life when stress can become unbearable. If you plan your new life, and are prepared for work, financial, and academic responsibilities, College or University can be a beneficial and enjoyable experience.

Read More...

What do you do when you have that gut feeling of impending doom about your job? Is the writing on the wall? Are you about to be laid off or fired? Is the company going under? Or is it going to come out of the blue that you no longer have a job. If you have these feeling then now is the time to take action in order to soften the blow. You need to start today to get your affairs in order. If the ax falls you will be in a much better position than your coworkers. If you follow these steps and nothing happens you will still be much better off than you are now.

First off, is your resume up to date? If you have not updated it in a few years, now is the time. You may want to consider hiring a professional to do it for you. You need to put your best foot forward. You want to be able to start sending it out before or right after you become unemployed. Searching for a new job can be a full time job by itself. Do you job skills need updating? While you are still working may be a good time to take a few classes and update your skills or start training for a new career. You may want to sign up with a temp agency now so they can place you later. Advantages of temp agencies are they pay well, they find a job for you, you won't be competing for a position with dozens of others and you can usually start immediately.

Start networking. Ask everyone you know if they know of any job openings. If you have not lost your job yet, explain to them you may be laid off and will be looking for a new job. Maybe they can give you a contact name within their company. Someone to send your resume to letting them know if they have any openings in the future you would like to be considered. Start the process now. It is not what you know, it is who you know.

Get your financial house in order. This is always easier said than done. If you are like most people you may already be living paycheck to paycheck and there is nothing extra. If you become unemployed you need as much cash as possible to carry you through. Most experts recommend 3-6 months cash to meet your living needs. What if you can't find a job for 8 months or a year? Gather all your cash reserve or sources for cash. Stash as much as possible to meet you needs.

If you are laid off, the next day you should start filling out any paperwork for unemployment benefits you may qualify for.

You will get through this, it will just take time. Start taking these important steps today and you will be far better prepared for tomorrow.

Read More...

Many recruiters are now opting to scan applicant resumes into a computerized screening database system in their endeavors to simplify the screening and selection process. For a job seeker this means that when developing their resume they must not only ensure that the content is impressive and distinguishable from their competitor's but also that it is keyword optimized in order to secure a high ranking during a computer-based search.

Previously known as buzz words, keywords are generally nouns (however can also include verbs), and are typically structured into compulsory and advantageous categories to identify crucial skills and experience required in a candidate.

To perform a resume search the recruiter enters relevant keywords into their computerized tracking system. Comparable to an internet search engine (which uses a spider to 'crawl' around the internet to assemble appropriate information according to the stipulated keywords), a recruiter's computerized tracking system recognizes specific keywords within all the resumes located on their database. When the tracking system locates a keyword, it is termed a 'hit', with the greater number of relevant keywords located in the document giving that resume a higher ranking.

To guarantee your resume will be included among the highest ranked document, keywords should be industry/job specific and applicable to what a recruiter or potential employer would be looking for in a suitable job applicant. They may include job titles, relevant skills, industry jargon, and necessary education / academic achievements.

Keywords can be generated from the resources outlined below:

- Job postings – either printed or online;
- Job descriptions / person specifications;
- Industry Association Websites;
- Career related discussion forums;
- Yellow Pages – either printed or online;
- Job Related Publications

- Resume and career exploration books/material;
- Corporate websites (including our organization; or job opportunities web pages);
- Other resumes that have been posted online; to name a few.

To optimize your resume's ranking with search engines and computer tracking systems include a 'keyword' section toward the forefront of your document as well as incorporating keywords throughout your resume. Avoid placing keywords nonsensically throughout your document as you must maintain a fluent writing style to ensure your resume flows smoothly.

Following is an example of a keyword section for a Marketing Student's resume which was strategically positioned at the forefront of their document:

KEYWORDS:
Marketing Student, Brand Management, Advertising, Marketing & Promotions, Market Research & Analysis, Marketing Surveys, Customer Service & Retention, Public Relations & Speaking, Leadership, Collaboration & Teamwork, Financial Management & Reporting, Analysis & Problem Solving, High-Impact Presentations, Alliance & Relationship Building, Escalated Conflict Resolution, Bilingual, fluent English & French.

To enhance the resume's ranking when being reviewed by a computer applicant screening system or internet search, similar keywords were also included throughout the body of the resume.

As a final measure to ensure you have included sufficient keywords in your resume scan through and mark them with a highlighting pen to confirm consistent placement throughout your document.

Read More...

This article pertains to those wishing to start a small business online with the number of employees starting at one. It is assumed that you intent on building your own web site and will be the administrator of all aspects of your new business until revenue permits you to hire help. The main objective here is to focus on a long-term goal: permanent full-time self-employment.

1) Investment: Time is your primary investment. Most people would assume that capital is the primary
investment, but this is not the case. The capital required to run your business will initially be your own salary, your computer and an Internet connection, and your costs to buy your domain and host your site. Product
sales and service costs may or may not be relevant depending on your business, but the point is getting started and going from there. As you produce revenue, you can then invest in product to sell.
2) Goal: The focus should never be on the short-term windfall … you stand a good chance to fail due to impatience. Expenses can stress your ability to hang in there, and if so, get a side job to pay the bills, but don't ever quit on the objective, which is working for yourself … even if the word is "eventually".
3) Change: Leave yourself open to changing your plan of attack so-to-speak. You may find, and more than likely will, that what you thought would work … doesn't, or doesn't quite. This would be due to online inexperience. Stay open to moving with the current of the consumer.
4) Have at your disposal the right tools for success. This means investing in a reasonably good computer. Maintenance of your computer is critically important.
Ref - "The Newbie's Guide to Personal Computer Maintenance"
5) Choose a domain that is short, yet specific to what it is you intend to do with your business. Do not pay for any less than a two-year term. You have to allow yourself more than a year to succeed. Choose a web host that caters to commerce. Never ever choose a free hosting package for a business.
6) If you don't have any experience with web design, sign up to receive newsletters from any web design source and browse forums for answers to your questions.
Ref - "The Newbie's Guide to Small Business Web Design"
7) Once you have bought your domain and begun building your business, make a point to be thorough with regards to the basics of web design, such as having rich content, and acquiring inbound links to your site. The "backend" of your web site, meaning the placement of keywords and tags, will eventually help your inevitable success. Be a perfectionist here, but don't spend too much of your time trying to be #1 on the search engines. Let your future webmaster worry about that.

The key point to remember here is to allow yourself time to succeed without wasting time trying to be a millionaire tomorrow. Plan to be in business for fifty years, and go from there. Save your first home page as a reminder to show down the road to your many employees as to where you were. Tell them all how you started out with nothing and made the company "what it is today" from this simple beginning.

Don't run the human race, but break free from the rat race, by making your move.

Read More...

Let's face it. Searching for employment is a royal pain in the butt. Want to know the best way to get exposure to key company leaders and unpublicized opportunity with the least amount of stumbling?

Gain an audience by recognizing opportunity
There's a sexier method to salsa into a great career with less tripping and more flair. Look for problems to solve and create a personalized solution. Find those challenges by spotting company movement of any kind, whether the change is good, bad or ugly. If you do this, you'll capitalize on an opportunity to be heard and get that coveted invitation to dance in the king's court.

Hot career tip:
If you want to infiltrate an intended employer fortress, a feat that other job seekers assume impossible, remember that it's much easier if the inhabitants on the other side open the door for you.

Here are three things that you need to know to increase your chances of obtaining an insider's invite:

Resume blasting is as productive as sailing paper airplanes aimlessly into the wind

Traditional networking causes most job candidates to feel like hookers standing on a dimly-lit street corner soliciting interest from passersby.

Online job searching, a passive mind-numbing activity, done without a target will suck the creative energy right out of you

You won't find that best job through traditional networking
What happened to the prevailing idea that networking is the best career resource to find a new job? "Networking is still one of the better methods to find employment but today it's used in a different way," says Randy Stevens, President and CEO of R. L. Stevens & Associates Inc., a national career marketing firm based in Waltham, Massachusetts. "In the fifth year of a negative economy, actually by the second year, networks get choked. Over the last few years these networks have been overused by people who had good networks."

Traditional Networking has been replaced and redefined
There's a better way to get doors open says Stevens. The concept of "Greasing the Wheel," has replaced the model of traditional networking. He explains, "In this current employment cycle covering the past five years, traditional networking transitioned to becoming more meaningful for informational interviews to gather information, rather than directly finding a job. 'Greasing the Wheel' on the other hand, is a fresher approach because it ties or connects a personalized solution you've identified to an employer's need." Your job search is then redefined from looking for employment openings to more proactively seeking a gateway to supply value and benefit as a solution provider.

Hunt for "spot opportunities" to find the secret passageway to employers
Increase your exposure to unpublicized job leads and customarily inaccessible decision makers by exploiting Spot Opportunities. These are indicators of movement within a company that can be triggers for hiring. They are the beginning of a hiring pattern and usually signal the development of a hiring initiative. Wisely and routinely using spot opportunities leaves your competition choking in the dust wondering how the heck you got inside.

Forget everything you've heard or know about finding a job
Stop looking for a job and start proactively targeting employers who have problems or challenges you can solve. When you pick a job based on employer need rather than your own you immediately provide tangible value and benefit to busy decision makers and earn the right to be heard.

"Greasing the Wheel" is exposure-to-opportunity gone extreme
The radical method of "Greasing the Wheel" is rarely used by the job search masses because it involves taking considerable time to research industry and news sources and sniff out the possibilities and the players with a keen detective-like nose. However, if you keep doing things the way you're doing them now, you'll keep getting the same results. To see changes, in what you get, you need to change what you do. Go extreme.

A sneak peak into Part Three
So, how do you pull off a career campaign home run? In Part Three, we'll drive what is labeled the "Reality of Exposure" by showing you how to become a major league pitcher of solutions using the fast ball of strategic promotional development.

Read More...

Want to gain the upper hand in a career marketing campaign? Try using these marketing techniques of Positioning, Exposure and Marketing.

In Part One we'll look at how Positioning or "Coming to a Theater Near You" simplifies and expedites your employment hunt by reinforcing employer buy-in through justification of the sale.

Rapidly gain employer agreement that you're the right person for the job by proving how their organizational needs are met through your specific abilities to solve their identified problems.

Your search shouldn't be about the money
Most job hunters passively seek a job by default rather than strategic design. If you do, you may be committing the ultimate career crime against yourself, your wallet, and perhaps your future.

Choosing a career because it pays bills puts you in a vulnerable position by exposing you to unnecessary hidden dangers. Your quest will be driven by your needs rather than the "customer's" (an employer's) requirements. The unfortunate result will always hold you hostage to the tyranny of the urgent or whatever pressing matter is controlling the motivation of your search at the time.

Wouldn't you rather transition to a new career that brings meaning and purpose to your work? Want to know how to make this a reality faster?

Solve problems.

Hot career tip
How do you save yourself hundreds of hours while job searching and potentially, over the course of a career life time, earn thousands more dollars in income?

Plan a career and target your search where you can position yourself to supply value by providing solutions to company challenges. Pick a job based on an employer's need rather than your own.

Create demand and position yourself as a problem solver
The compelling reason employers hire candidates is to generate tangible benefits for his / or her organization in terms of:

Saving money
Increasing revenues
Improving productivity
Streamline operations
Enhancing client relations

Your preliminary oral and written communications should be as electrifying and enticing as those high-adventure "movie trailers" that create convincing first round interest for you to see the film.

Tease them and then please them
We generally go to the movies because of a promotional marketing approach that presents the value of watching the moving before we actually do so. Right?

The tantalizer, or "Coming to a Theater Near You" appeals to our sense of emotional need (adventure, laughter, romance, etc.), which then compels us to want to see the movie. When we see the motion picture, we evaluate the degree of fulfillment of the emotional need, and subsequently justify our viewing.

This same "Coming to a Theater Near You" concept is Tier One of a powerful three-staged marketing approach that will revolutionize how you find your best career, sooner. Targeted Positioning obtains interviews with recruiters and key decision makers with greater ease. When you position yourself as the personalized solution to a company's identified need or challenge, you justify their investment of time and energy required to find out more about you.

Prove your value by front-loading your Wow!
The right mix of marketing strategies or "Coming to a Theater Near You" rapidly confirms your value to decision makers. Achieve this by front-loading the Wow! or sizzle of who you are, what you'll do, and how your contributions will have a positive affect their organizational growth. Your time-saving effort then auto-creates momentum, anticipated results and prevents the pursuit from getting bogged down in "process."

If you've ever been ravenously hungry and caught a whiff of hot, steamy, mouth-watering Fajitas, you know what power front-loading the sizzle has on your appetite! The unique "Coming to a Theater" marketing tactic has the same compelling effect on employers and ensures your career search is hot-wired for success.

Make 'em drool for you and your talents by changing your focus from "what's in it for me" to "what's in it for them" and you'll have stronger control over picking the best career for you.

A sneak peak into Part Two
So how do you tie the exposure to the solution of the "employer's" needs and then clearly communicate that linkage? How do you optimistically affect the perception of the employer's purchase of your talents?

Read More...

 Congratulations! The hard work you have put into your job search has paid off. You now have a job offer on the table and are excited about the opportunities that this position presents. There is just one thing that is troubling you: the offered salary.

It is not unusual for the final part of the job search process to involve salary negotiation, but this conversation can cause even the most seasoned professionals to break into a sweat. A basic understanding of the negotiation process and methods to make salary negotiations go smoothly, though, will serve to both alleviate your anxiety and improve your negotiating effectiveness.

The key is to evaluate your qualifications and determine what your skills are worth in the current employment market. Ideally, you should begin research salary ranges before you even begin the job search process. To determine your approximate market worth, you can contact any one of the following sources:

--Professional associations or journals in your field

--Your state labor office

--U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

--Career Centers

You may also conduct a search of salary ranges on the internet to determine what companies are paying professionals with your background. Keep in mind that salaries range depending on a number of factors including years of professional experience, education, industry, geographic location, number of employees, and benefits. In order to get your estimated worth as accurate as possible, you will need to consider these factors.

Once you have done your research, you can now enter the salary negotiation process with a firm understanding of the value of your skills in the marketplace

It's important to approach the negotiation in a professional manner and for both you and the employer to maintain the mutual respect and trust that you have enjoyed throughout the hiring process. After all, if the negotiation works out, you will be working for the company, so don't burn any bridges before you start orientation.

A couple of key tips:

--Do not personalize conflict. It is important to remember that you and the employer have different interests and that negotiation is a give-and-take process.

--Always be tactful and diplomatic.

--Persuade rather than coerce.

--Establish a common ground for agreement.

--Remain objective and focused on your priorities.

--Clearly describe the benefits of your proposal.

--Be persistent, but know when to let go and when to walk away.

Finally, be flexible in your negotiations. If you sense that an employer is making you the best possible offer based on available financial resources, considering negotiating for a better benefits package as an alternative.

In conclusion, by taking a close look at your unique skills and understanding their value in the current market, you are better prepared to approaching salary negotiation as a mutually beneficial discussion between you and the employer. Such an attitude will not only allow you to maintain your professionalism, but will greatly increase the likelihood that your negotiations will be a success.

Read More...

 Finding a job is such a daunting task. Here, there, and everywhere, job seekers tend to look for the best means in order to find the best jobs.

However, most of them are predisposed to neglect job fairs. This is because many job seekers get annoyed with the jam-packed, full of activity, and baffling series of events. Nevertheless, they are still the best place to land a job.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in the United States, the employment status is likely to boost by 15%. That is why job fairs are the best places to find a job because many companies will be participating in the event.

Job fairs are not really that bustling. The important thing is to obtain the necessary requirements needed in job applications and the rest, as they say, is history.

Here are some of the things that a job seeker must have by the time he or she is at the job fair in order to make the most out of it:

1. Advance research can be very helpful.

Most job seekers aim to find the best employment possible. Hence, it is important to do some advance research before going to a job fair.

Usually, the organizers of this event will post the companies that will participate on the job fair. Obtaining some information about the companies and the position that is open for the job would be an edge over the others.

2. Job seekers should have enough resumes.

It would be better if job seekers have enough resumes, at least 25, before going to the job fair. In this way, the applicant will be able to provide resumes to all of the potential employers in the job fair. The more applications you deliver the better chances of landing a job.

3. Job seekers should know how important it is to dress for the occasion.

As they say, first impressions last. Hence, in order to cut above the rest of job seekers, an individual should learn how to impress his or her future employer by dressing for the best. It should project a professional outlook, enthusiasm, and the determination to get the job that he or she really wants.

4. Job seekers should be prepared for some on-the-spot interviews.

5. An applicant should have a list of the companies where he or she had given his or her resume.

Knowing these things can be very helpful especially if it is the applicants first time in a job fair. Hence, people should be more aware of the benefits they can derive from job fairs alone.

Read More...

 A) The Chronological Curriculum:

1. First and foremost you have to be able to write an effective resume or curriculum. Now there are two types of curriculums that you have to consider. One is the Chronological Curriculum while the other is the Functional Curriculum. But since the Chronological Curriculum is the one that is most used, I'm going to start in explaining how to most effectively write and use this one. 2. One of the most important items often left out of this type of curriculum is the objective or direction that you're trying to set-up for yourself. In other words you should have some idea as to what kind of position or job you're applying for and state this in a very bold fashion either at the top of the curriculum or in a covering letter. Otherwise your curriculum will probably be ignored. 3. Secondly, your curriculum should be no longer than two pages, preferably one, and written on paper that highlights your skills. 4. Thirdly, your schooling and job experience should start with the most recent to the less recent. 5. Fourthly, your experiences whether schooling or job wise should start with those experiences that are recent and most related to the position you're applying for. Also if you have university experience you normally don't have to put down your primary or secondary school experience. 6. And finally, if you know more than one language or have a specialized skill or interest that could relate to the position that you're applying for, put this in a most prominent place on your curriculum.

After finishing this, your curriculum can be distributed as a result of newspaper ads or any other situation that might lead to a potential job that you might be interested in.

B) The Functional Curriculum:

1. The Functional Resume or Curriculum, however, is the one that is much less frequently used. The reason for this is that, although you normally would get a better job, you have a lot more to do to put this curriculum into operation. 2. To begin with you should write the story of your own life, but only the positive aspects of it. Then you should relate the talents that you used to make these life events so positive. After this you have to rank the five most important talents (1,2,3,4,5) that you used. 3. On the other end of the scale you have to determine the direction you want your life to take job wise based on your past experiences and education. Then you have to relate those 5 talents mentioned above to your job search by writing them in importance order under your goal, and giving two examples of each on how you used these talents in the past, but related to experiences that would help you in your job search. This then is your curriculum. Goal + Talents + 2 Examples after each talent. 4. After finishing the curriculum you do not send it out. You memorize it, not in the sense that you're memorizing it word for word, but in the sense that you should memorize the essential essence of the curriculum. Then practice the verbalization of it with trusted friends. 5. In the meanwhile you should start contacting by letter executive decision makers of companies you would like to work for, but not asking them for a job. Instead you would be asking them for an interview whereby they can give you some advice on what you could do with your talents, and you should mention to them in the letter that in a few days you will be contacting them by telephone to set up such a meeting. But remember; don't contact the personnel directors unless you want to work in that area, but the decision makers who can usually override their personnel directors. 6. At the interview, remember that with a Chronological Curriculum the interviewer controls the interview, but with your verbalizing the Functional Curriculum in front of the interviewer, the interviewee controls the interview. 7. Using this approach you can develop many important contacts because your initial interviewer can put you in contact with many people at the same executive level of companies similar to the one you're interested in, if he or she's impressed with your presentation. Also remember this: Many times when you're dealing with executive decision makers and they like your capabilities, they could create a job for you if none is currently available.

C) Suggestions on Interviews:

1. Always dress neatly and somewhat conservatively. 2. Never be a "yes" person. Always express your honest opinion, but in a way that shows respect for the other person's opinion. 3. And always send a thank you note after each interview.

Read More...

If you look around you, it doesn't take long before you can begin to notice others around you engaging in some kind of self improvement activity. If we want to look younger, we diet. If we want to feel younger, we exercise. To add culture to our lives, we might learn a second language or listen to classical music. These are all worth while self improvement activities we can participate in; however it can be shown that an increase number of Americans are continuing their education after high school. Some are returning to the online classroom after an absence of several years in order to enhance or change their career.

There are many people today from all walks of life who are getting an online college degree from home. Dollar for dollar, an online college degree or post graduate work pays off. The quickest way to give yourself a raise is to receive your certification in an area in which you are all ready working. Examples where board certification is pertinent include technical and vocational fields to name a few.

Sometimes an online college degree is very necessary in these instances. In some cases you have previously learned the information required of you for these various certifications, but will need the necessary degree in order to advance in your particular field.

So, let's discuss possible uses of a college degree via distance education. Many who are presently working in technical and vocational fields enroll in online courses to restructure and enhance their careers, and receive additional certification status.

Examples of this occur on an on-going basis. A thirty year old immigrant from South America began working as a nurse's aid, and is presently in her second semester of training from home at an online college.

A 50 year old white male enrolled in an online technical college to study electronics when the factory in which he had worked moved to Mexico early last year.

During a downsizing exercise at a psychiatric facility in Missouri, an education staff member returned to an online virtual classroom to gain continuing units of education, and add a minor to her present degree.

Thus, you can see with the use of those brief examples that continuing education can be useful as well as critical to your intellectual growth base.

An online college degree is more important than ever for several reasons.

1. Employers feel that we are presently in an employer's market. This means that they can be more selective in individuals they hire.

2. Jobs that glean more pay are more specialized. Specialized jobs require more training/education. This is true because these jobs require the manipulation of facts, figures, and/or technology which is often times sensitive, adaptive, or computerized.

3. Our current jobs in the U.S. are becoming more and more service oriented. These jobs have relatively low pay and our labeled unskilled work. Thus, one must retool to prepare his or her self to obtain a job requiring more skill and offering more pay.

4. Finally, we have entered a global economy. Such an economy demands higher prices for homes and automobiles without providing numerous gainful employment opportunities.

How do you know if an online college degree is for you? First, if you lack a high school diploma, a college degree is a must. High school non-graduates make 25% less than starting salary employees with a high school education.

Secondly, you may presently hold a position that would pay you more if you held a degree from an online technical school or online community college. You may know this information from coworkers or acquaintances in your line of work.

Thirdly, if you are considered a non-traditional student. Financial incentives are available to attract such students. So if you could be described as a non-traditional or a minority student, smaller financial payout is a good incentive to continue your education.

Check out an online college degree portal and invest in your future. Give yourself a raise.

Read More...

Human Resources personnel, professional recruiters and various other career experts all agree: one of the best ways to prepare yourself for a job interview is to anticipate questions, develop your answers, and practice, practice, practice.

There are plenty of websites that offer lists of popular job interview questions, and knowing the types of questions to expect can be very useful. But knowing how to answer those questions can mean the difference between getting the job and getting the "reject letter."

HOW TO ANSWER QUESTIONS

First, know these important facts:

1. There is no way to predict every question you will be asked during a job interview. In other words, expect unexpected questions--they'll come up no matter how much preparation you do.

2. Treat any sample answers you find, such as in discussion forums, books or on Internet job sites, as GUIDES only. Do not use any sample answers word for word! Interviewers can spot "canned" answers a mile away, and if they suspect you are regurgitating answers that are not your own, you can kiss that job goodbye. You must apply your own experiences, personality and style to answer the questions in your own way. This is crucial, and it will give you a big advantage over candidates who simply recite sample answers.

3. Job interview questions are not things to fear, they are OPPORTUNITIES TO EXCEL. They allow you to show why you are the best person for the job, so instead of dreading them, look forward to them! The key is to give better answers than anyone else, and that's where your preparation comes in.

Now, take these actions:

1. Make a list of your best "selling points" for the position. What qualifications, skills, experience, knowledge, background, personality traits do you possess that would apply to this particular job? Write them down and look for opportunities to work them into your answers.

2. In addition to any sample job interview questions you find through various resources, you absolutely must develop your OWN list of probable questions based specifically on the job for which you are applying. Put yourself in the hiring manager's shoes… what kinds of questions would you ask to find the best person for this job?

3. Write down your answers to likely questions. Study the job announcement carefully. (If you don't have one, get one!) Note the phrases they use when describing the desired qualifications. You'll want to target these as much as possible when developing your answers. For example, if the announcement says they want someone with "strong customer service skills," make sure you include "strong customer service skills" in at least one of your answers. That will make a better impression than saying "I helped customers."

4. Review and edit your answers until you feel they are "just right." Read them over and over until you are comfortable that you know them fairly well. Don't try to memorize them; don't worry about remembering every word. Practice saying them out loud. If possible, have a friend help you rehearse for the interview.

Be A (Short) Story Teller

Make use of this old marketing tip: "Facts tell but stories sell." During a job interview, you are selling yourself. Whenever possible, answer questions with a short story that gives specific examples of your experiences. Notice I said "short." You don't want to ramble or take up too much time; you want to be brief but still make your point.

For example, imagine two people interviewing for a job as a dog groomer are asked, "Have you ever dealt with aggressive dogs?" Candidate Joe answers, "Yes, about 10% of the dogs I've groomed had aggressive tendencies." Candidate Mary answers, "Oh yes, quite often. I remember one situation where a client brought in his Pit Bull, Chomper. He started growling at me the moment his owner left, and I could tell from his stance he wasn't about to let me get near his nails with my clippers. I think he would've torn my arm off if I hadn't used the Schweitzer Maneuver on him. That calmed him down right away and I didn't have any problems after that." (NOTE: I know nothing about dog grooming; I made the Schweitzer Maneuver up for illustrative purposes.)

Don't you agree that Mary's answer is better? Sure, Joe answered the question, but Mary did more than that--she gave a specific example and told a quick story that will be remembered by the interviewers.

In today's job market where there are dozens of highly qualified candidates for each opening, anything you do that will make you stand out and be remembered will greatly increase your odds of getting hired.

Keep the Interviewer's Perspective in Mind; Answer His "What's in it for Me?" Question

While many questions asked during job interviews appear to focus on your past accomplishments, here's an important tip: they may be asking about what you did in the past, but what they really want to know is what you can do NOW, for THEM.

The key is to talk about your past accomplishments in a way that shows how they are RELEVANT to the specific job for which you are interviewing. Doing advance research about the company (such as at their website or at www.hoovers.com) and the position will be extremely helpful.

Here's another example with Joe and Mary. The interviewer asks, "What is the most difficult challenge you've faced, and how did you overcome it?" Joe answers with, "In one job I was delivering pizzas and I kept getting lost. By the time I'd find the address, the pizza would be cold, the customer would be unhappy, and my boss was ready to fire me. I overcame this problem by purchasing a GPS navigation device and installing it in my car. Now I never get lost!" Mary answers, "In my current job at Stylish Hounds, management ran a special promotion to increase the number of customers who use the dog-grooming service. It was a bit too successful because we suddenly had more customers than we could handle. Management would not hire additional groomers to help with the workload. Instead of turning customers away or significantly delaying their appointments, I devised a new grooming method that was twice as fast. Then I developed a new work schedule. Both efforts maximized productivity and we were able to handle the increased workload effectively without upsetting our customers."

Joe's answer shows initiative and commitment (he bought that GPS gadget with his own money, after all). But Mary's answer relates specifically to the job they are applying for (dog groomer). And Mary had done research about the company and discovered it was about to significantly expand it's dog-grooming operations. So she picked an example from her past that addressed an issue the interviewer was likely to apply to a future situation in his company. See the difference?

Here's one more example. Joe and Mary are asked, "What's your greatest accomplishment?" Joe answers, "I won two Olympic Gold Medals during the 2000 Olympics in the high-jump competition." Mary answers, "I was named Stylish Hounds's Dog Groomer of the Year in 2003 for increasing productivity in my section by 47%."

Joe's accomplishment is pretty spectacular. But remember the interviewer's perspective. He might be impressed, but he's thinking "What's in it for me? What does being a world-class high-jumper four years ago have to do with helping me to increase sales in my dog-grooming department?" Mary's answer is much less spectacular than Joe's, but it's relevant to the position and indicates that she has what it takes to be successful in this particular job. It tells the interviewer, "I have what you're looking for; I can help you with your specific needs."

Looks like Mary has a new job!

Do Not Lie

Last but not least, tell the truth. It's sometimes very tempting to "alter" the truth a bit during a job interview. For instance, say you quit instead of being fired. But the risk of being discovered as a liar far outweighs the potential benefit of hiding the truth.

If you are thinking about telling a lie during the interview, ask yourself these questions (this technique has helped me make many major decisions): "What is the BEST thing that could happen? What is the WORST thing that could happen? Is the best thing WORTH RISKING the worst thing?" In this instance, the best thing would be getting the job. The worst thing would be getting discovered as a liar, which could lead to getting fired, which could lead to unemployment, which could lead to more job searching, which could lead to another interview, which could lead to the stress of deciding whether to lie about just getting fired, and so on… a cycle that can go on indefinitely. Is all that worth getting the one job, perhaps on a temporary basis?

Always consider the consequences of your actions.

In Summary, Here's What You Need To Do When Preparing To Answer Job Interview Questions:

1. Study the job announcement.

2. Research the company.

3. Anticipate likely questions.

4. Prepare answers to those questions that are relevant to the position and the company.

5. Promote your best "selling points" (relevant qualifications, capabilities, experience, personality traits, etc.) by working them into your answers.

6. Practice. Practice. Practice.

Read More...