Fun Facts Friday

Interviews are a huge step to take on the way to getting your dream job... Just don't answer any questions like these candidates did!

Q. Why should I hire you?
A. Because they say you should always hire people who are better than you.

Q. What do you remember about your life as a child?
A. The courts promised to suppress all that after I turned 18. Why do you want to know?

Q. What five or six adjectives best describe you?
A. Really, really, really, really, really cool.

Q. What can you tell me about your creative ability?
A. I think my answers to most of your questions are pretty good indicators.

Q. Tell me about you as a team player?
A. Teamwork is OK, as long as other people don't get in the way.

Q. Are you willing to take a drug test as part of your employment?
A. Sure. What kind of drugs do I get to test?

Q. Did your grade-point average reflect your work ability?
A. Absolutely. Maximum results for minimum effort has always been my goal.

Q. Do you consider yourself to be a smart person?
A. No. But I'm the only person in the world with that opinion.

Q. What is your greatest weakness?
A. Three-foot putts for par.

Q. How do you handle change?
A. I usually put it in a jar in my sock drawer.

Q. Can you supervise people?
A. Sure. Tell people what to do, then kick their butts if they don't do it.

Q. Describe your management style.
A. Don't do anything you can make someone else do for you.

Q. How do you go about setting an example?
A. I never let anyone catch me sleeping in my office.

Q. How do you define a "problem person"?
A. Anyone who disagrees with me.

Q. Are you a good communicator?
A. Huh?

http://www.goldenresume.us/res/interview-bloopers.php

Top Job Thursday

Urban Planner

An urban planner or city planner is a professional who works in the field of urban planning/land use planning for the purpose of optimizing the effectiveness of a community's land use and infrastructure. They formulate plans for the development and management of urban and suburban areas, typically analyzing land use compatibility as well as economic, environmental and social trends. In developing their plan for a community (whether commercial, residential, agricultural, natural or recreational), urban planners must also consider a wide array of issues such as sustainability, air pollution, traffic congestion, crime, land values, legislation and zoning codes. The importance of the urban planner is increasing throughout the 21st century, as we begin to face issues of increased population growth, climate change and unsustainable development. An urban planner could be considered as a green collar profession.
Urban planners are usually hired by developers, private property owners, private planning firms and local/regional governments to assist in the large-scale planning of communal and commercial developments, as well as public facilities and transportation systems. Urban planners in the public role often assist the public and serve as valued technical advisors in the myriad web of the community's political environment. Related disciplines include regional, city, environmental, transportation, housing and community planning.

Is Planning for You?
If you are considering becoming a planner, you should enjoy the following:

Teamwork
Planners almost always work as part of a team, either with other planners, other professionals such as engineers or architects, or with politicians and citizens. With your varied background and communication skills, you will often be the one person who brings together a coherent plan of action that draws upon ideas of experts and knowledgeable participants.

Understanding data and numbers
Planners must feel comfortable interpreting population statistics, economic and social data, geographical information, resource inventories and environmental indicators. You will use this information to support your policy and project proposals.

The physical world around you
Most planners have a genuine interest in geography and the environment. Understanding how landscapes are formed, what happens to surface water when land is developed, how topography affects the design of roads and subdivisions, how to safely dispose of human and industrial waste, and how to preserve trees and natural resources, all require the natural curiosity and broad background that planners possess.

Understanding your neighbours
Most planners are concerned with balancing the rights of individuals with the needs of the larger population. Understanding the needs and views of all concerned is essential whether it be families, single people, an aging demographic, or differences due to income or ethnic background. You will need to seek out and understand the diverse voices of your community.

Communication
Planners should have the ability to communicate ideas though the use of text, charts and pictures in presentations and reports for clients, other professionals, the general public and politicians. Planners also create maps, plans and 3-D models to represent their ideas.

Managing conflict
People have strong feelings about their property, homes, businesses and communities. Planners often face situations where they must respect conflicting views, mediate effectively, seek compromises and ultimately help others make difficult decisions.

Flexible schedule
Because so much of a planner's job involves working with people in the community and taking directions from elected councils, you will often have to make time outside of normal working hours to attend meetings. Many planners work in government - either at the municipal, regional, provincial or federal level.

Rewards
There are many rewards from entering the planning profession. Currently there are employment opportunities for graduates of planning schools in the public and private sector of most municipalities across Canada. The salary range for a new planner is on par with graduates of engineering or architecture with the same level of experience. Location can influence the salary range for any level of planner, however planners can expect starting salaries of $40 – 50K. Please view the current employment opportunities on our website for an idea of what compensation you can expect in your province.

In addition, planners experience a sense of achievement through their work by improving the quality of life in communities. This is accomplished by working with a multitude of professionals and community stakeholders. Establishing, maintaining and improving multiple important relationships provide skills that are a major benefit when acquired by young planners. Planners also benefit from being able to further one’s knowledge of professional planning through continuous educational opportunities provided through the national and affiliate programs.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urban_planner#Canada, http://www.cip-icu.ca/web/la/en/pa/5c3fe72c7a104c358bbc1a81db5c5741/template.asp

Weekly Feature Wednesday

Swim Instructor/Lifeguard - Canadian Forces Personnel Support Agency

Job Title: Swim Instructor/Lifeguard
Position Type: Casual
Job Location: CFB Trenton
Employment Category: Social Service/Recreation/Health

Job Description:
Non-Public Funds
Personnel Support Programs
Community Recreation
CFB Trenton
Permanent Casual
COMPETITION NUMBER:
TRN-11-066

Under the supervision of the Aquatics Supervisor, the Swim Instructor/Lifeguard plans and prepares swimming lessons, instructs students at their appropriate level in accordance with guidelines set out by Red Cross and Lifesaving Society programs and provides feedback to participants and/or parents with recommendations for improvements. He/she performs lifeguard duties and participates in meetings and in-service training, clinics and club events. She/He opens and closes the aquatic facility, ensures the safety of all participants while in the pool facility and assists in maintaining the pool office, pool deck and storage areas in a neat and tidy manner.

Job Requirements:

- High school diploma AND some experience
OR
- An acceptable combination of education, training and/or experience will also be considered
AND
- Current National Lifeguard Service (NLS) – Pool Option qualification
- Current CPR Level C and Standard First Aid qualifications
- Current Water Safety Instructor certification
- Current Lifesaving Instructor certification

Language requirement: Bilingual Mandatory – Level 222/222
Preference will be granted as follows:
Applications from non-bilingual candidates will be accepted. Should a non-bilingual candidate be chosen on merit, he/she will be required to undertake second language training.
The proficiency levels which can be assigned to each skill are: 1(basic), 2(functional), 3(advanced), 4(professional)

Knowledge Requirements
- Of life guarding/safety techniques and procedures
- Of instructional techniques
- Of injury prevention practices
- Of health and safety practices

Experience Requirements
- In dealing with the public
- In providing customer service
- In performing lifeguard duties
- In dealing with children
- In the implementation of training and practice sessions
- In the development and implementation of individual training plans
- In cash handling
- In using software for word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, databases, e-mail, and Internet browsing

Salary: $ 12.90/hr

Application Procedure: Employer Website
If by Website, go to: www.cfpsa.com
If by Fax, send to: 613-965-2196
Application Material Required: Resumé
Successful candidate will be prepared to commence employment as soon as possible.

NPF employees must demonstrate the following core characteristics: team player, customer focus, positive attitude, excellence, and competence.

NPF is committed to Employment Equity and Diversity and invites applications from Women, Aboriginal People, Persons with Disabilities and Visible Minorities.
To receive this job poster in an alternative format, please contact the NPF Human Resources Manager.

Eligible candidates should submit a resume clearly outlining their ability to fulfill all position requirements by mail to: Trenton Recruiting, NPF Human Resources, 8 Wing Trenton, P.O. Box 1000, Stn Forces, Astra, ON K0K 3W0, by fax at 613-965-2196, or online at http://www.cfpsa.com/. Applications must be received before 1600 hrs 04 August 2011.

Please note that only those candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted. If you have special needs and require accommodation measures for the selection process, please notify the NPF Human Resources Manager at that time.

Application Deadline: Aug 04, 2011 04:00PM

Tip of the Day Tuesday

How to Get the Most Out of Your Internship

Back in graduate school, I landed four internships and they were some of the best career moments that I have had to date. Knowing there was no space to get hired when I went in for the job, I spent my intern moments trying to solidify my skills, asking lots of questions and taking on every possible task imaginable. I wanted to be remembered. I wanted to be helpful. And, let’s be honest, I wanted letters of recommendation.

There are countless benefits to interning, but it’s important that you know what you are getting into beforehand. Here are some insights on how to get the most out of your placement.

What type of internship is this, exactly?

What are you expecting to gain from your internship? This is a question you have to ask yourself before you go in for the job.

“There are two kinds of internships,” says Sharon Irwin-Foulon, the Director of Career Management at The Richard Ivey School of Business at The University of Western Ontario. “There’s the kind of internship where you hope that it will turn into a permanent job, and there’s the type of internship where you are there to help the organization and to get experience and strengthen your skill set.”

Get noticed – the right way.

It’s crucial that you get noticed as an intern. At most, you’ll get a job offer. At least, you can walk out of there with a few referrals, a network and some letters of recommendation. That said, you want to be noticed for the right reasons - being a hard worker, taking initiative, completing tasks quickly and efficiently. “Don’t get noticed because you were out at the bar on a Thursday night before work,” Irwin-Foulon cautions. “(That) tends to be the summer lifestyle sometimes.”

Ask for honest feedback

If you are not hired on for a full-time job (and you expected you would be), don’t be scared to ask for constructive criticism. There are likely reasons why you failed to impress and it is important that you know these issues so that you can improve upon them. Even if you do get a job offer, it never hurts to ask if there are any areas you can improve upon.

Before you jump head-first into the pool of critical warfare, make sure you prepare yourself for some realistic pointers and analysis. “You have to let go of your perfectionist tendencies when you are asking for feedback,” Irwin-Foulon says.

Three takeaway tips to remember:

If you are doing the type of internship where you expect that you could be hired by a global institution, it’s typical to wait until two weeks before the end of your placement to ask about a job. If they want you badly enough, they will make an offer, anyway.

When looking for an internship, don’t be scared to cold-call companies. “I am a big believer that 70 percent of jobs are found through networking,” Irwin-Foulon says.

Do not be pressured to sign a contract. Many larger companies will ask you to sign off on an offer within a week or two. If you don’t feel that it’s the natural fit, do not hesitate shop around for a position that feels right.

By Brandon Miller, Monster Generation Y Contributing Writer, http://career-advice.monster.ca/job-hunt-strategy/getting-started/how-toget-the-most-out-of-your-internship-canada/article.aspx

Making It Big Monday

Be a Better Employee

A good outfielder is valuable, but a good outfielder who can hit becomes a great outfielder, and a great employee. Here are some easy ways to become a better hitter.

1. Take the initiative
If you can do the right thing without being told, you lift a huge burden off your boss’s shoulders and he’ll have more time for golf. If you’re unemployed, you won’t get a job by sitting at home sending out resumes. Go meet people and knock on doors.

2. Correctly complete the task you’re assigned
Doing a thing right the first time is mandatory for a good employee. When the boss gives you something to do, he doesn’t want to wonder if it’ll be done. He should know that it will and think of you as dependable.

3. Don’t give your boss a problem that he has to solve for you
Your boss has other things to do. Being the squeaky wheel is the best way to be replaced.

4. Do more than you’re asked to do
This one trait will set you above 99% of the other employees. Too often we forget that our job is to help our employer succeed, and that our duties include finding something productive to do when we don’t have a task assigned. Clean something!

5. Stop multitasking; you aren’t good at it
Study after study has proven that doing more than one thing at once lessens the quality of each thing you’re doing. I realize that you believe you’re the exception, but so does everyone. Obviously everyone can’t be an exception. “I’m multitasking” is another way of saying “I can’t concentrate long enough to finish one task.” Listen to the research and focus.

6. Figure it out
Stop pestering the boss for help. It’s your job, so figure out how to do it. If you need his help, why does he need you?

7. Don’t gossip
This is the surest way to be known as untrustworthy. Once you lose trust, you can’t get it back.

8. Leave things better than you found them
This is what a team player does, and this is what is expected in a successful work environment.

9. Communicate
When you get to work, smile and say hello. If you won’t make a meeting, tell them as soon as you know. Learn to be clear, concise and confident. Almost every workplace issue is a result of a communication problem.

10. Dress well
Have you heard that saying about dressing for the job you want, not the job you have? Do that!

11. Ask questions
Notice that this is different than not figuring it out on your own. The questions you should ask are ones like “Can I have this to you by tomorrow?” and “May I bring you my idea for making the widgets faster?” Avoid questions like “Will you type this for me, I’m kind of sleepy?” and “Can I bring my cats to work?”

12. Have an opinion when asked
“When asked” is the important part. Your boss will want to know if his idea to round π to 3.5 is really OK. Tell him the truth, even if the truth is “Um, probably not.”

13. Help others
For one thing, it makes you a team player, and following your example, others will later help you. Second, you’ll probably learn a little about them and their job, which can make you indispensible.

14. Learn
Unless you wish to remain where you are, you have to become more skilled. Learn your boss’s job.

15. Be enthusiastic
Enthusiasm covers a lot of faults. When we send the dog to fetch a stick and he comes back with a rock, we tend to forgive him because he’s happy. I’ll tell you right now that if my dog brought back a rock and was grumpy about it – I’d be pretty upset.

16. Be efficient
Thomas Edison used to have meetings in the other guy’s office. His reason: “It’s much easier for me to leave his office than for him to leave mine.” Think of ways to save time.

http://everyonehasaboss.com/2011/02/16-easy-ways-to-be-a-better-employee/

Fun Facts Friday

You Won't Believe These Interview and Resume Mistakes!

Five Things to Avoid Saying
The following comments were based upon actual job candidate responses from various job interviews.

While some of the comments seem hilarious, they are good examples of what to avoid when you see the human resources representative or hiring manager for a possible job.

Lack of Tact
“I recently got laid off. I have a master’s degree and I thought this job would be an easy one to do while I wait for something better to come along.”

Not Understanding the Question or Lying
“I can’t really show you any samples of my writing because I used to work for the CIA and everything I wrote is classified.”

Bad Timing
“If I get this job I’ll need two weeks off in a couple of months.”

Being Critical of the Company You Want to Work For
“I heard in the news that your company had a major problem with quality control and lots of people probably got fired for it. That’s probably why you are hiring…”

Putting Your Worst Foot Forward
“I’m more of a people person and not too strong with numbers.” (The job seeker was applying for an accounting position.)

Résumés

• "I have a bachelorette degree in computers."
• "Graduated in the top 66% of my class."
• "Married, eight children. Prefer frequent travel."
• "Special skills: Thyping."
• "My contributions on product launches were based on dreams that I had."
• "Please disregard the attached resume -- it is terribly out of date."
• "My salary requirement is $34 per year."
• "I'll starve without a job but don't feel you have to give me one."
• Experience: “Chapter president, 1887-1992.”
• Experience: “I’m a hard worker, etc.”
• Education: “I possess a moderate educatin but willing to learn more.”
• Salary requirements: “The higher the better.”
• Objective: “What I’m looking for in a job: #1) Money #2) Money #3) Money.”
• Awards: “National record for eating 45 eggs in two minutes.”
• Work experience: “Responsibilities included checking customers out.”
• Reason for leaving: “Terminated after saying, ‘It would be a blessing to be fired.’”
• Objective: “My dream job would be as a professional baseball player, but since I can’t do that, I’ll settle on being an accountant.”

http://www.rinkworks.com/said/resume.shtml, http://blog.resumebear.com/resume-cover-letter-tips/more-resume-bloopers/, http://www.graphicdesignbasics.com/2010/top-10-funny-job-interview-mistakes-part-i.html

Top Job Thursday

“When you walk in that door, you’re the kids’ world. You’re the one that’s going to make a difference.”
— Geoffrey Winship, Elementary Teacher

Elementary School Teacher:
Is It The Occupation For You?

Do you love learning and love sharing what you know? Do you feel a sense of accomplishment from helping others succeed? Do you revel in situations that are new, varied and challenging?

Learning is life!
Today’s teachers know and demonstrate it. They couple their own enjoyment for learning with a willingness to share. They’re motivated by making a difference in the lives of students and by building society – one student at a time. Teachers are continually exposed to new people, situations and opportunities for professional growth and leadership. They are accomplished students themselves, curious by nature and dedicated to helping others grow and thrive. If you’re organized, flexible, thoughtful and caring . . . if you’re looking for challenge, excitement and personal reward . . . if you’re inspired to learn as you teach and teach what you love – then a career in teaching may be just for you.

Getting There: The Paths to Becoming a Teacher
Today’s teachers wear many hats and perform different roles. They are communicators, counselors, classroom managers and role models, combining the right blend of knowledge, skill and temperament to succeed. Good teachers collaborate with colleagues, parents, other professionals and community partners to improve student learning. They know their subject matter and use a variety of teaching methods and resources, including a range of computer programs and Internet resources. They track student progress and change and refine their teaching practices through reflection and career long professional development. The best preparation for teaching is a well-rounded high school education, including a strong grounding in the liberal arts, mathematics and science. If you’re not sure whether you want to teach elementary or high school students, take a variety of courses. You can specialize later in university or your post secondary studies.

. . . To Teach Elementary School
In an elementary school, you may be asked to teach everything. Keep all your options open in high school by pursuing math, science, geography, history and English credits at the Grade 12 level. In university, you can specialize in one or two subjects from the elementary curriculum such as English, history, science or math. A course in psychology, child development or sociology of the family will also help prepare you for the classroom. A generalist background will help when you apply to a faculty of education or for your first teaching position.

. . . To Teach Secondary School
You will need to complete a postsecondary degree and a teacher education program – whether you teach in an elementary or secondary school. However, as a high school academic teacher, you need to qualify to teach two subjects. At university, you may wish to take English and history, or music and mathematics, or mathematics and science. Take an honours degree if you think you might like to become a subject specialist, the head of a department, or a school administrator (vice-principal or principal).

Volunteering
Tutoring or working as a volunteer with children or young people in school, community, camping or religious programs helps towards becoming a teacher. You will discover whether you like working with children and whether you have the temperament and personality to succeed. Volunteer experience will also help you gain admission to a faculty of education. Most teacher education faculties consider applicants’ experience as well as their university grades.

Ontario College of Teachers, http://www.oct.ca/publications/pdf/becoming_e.pdf

Weekly Feature Wednesday

Have a passion for photography? This could be the job opportunity meant for you!

Job Title:
Photographer - School

Position Type:
Graduating Student Employment

Job Location:
Belleville/Kingston area

Employment Category:
Photography Services

Job Description:

Photographers Wanted – Looking for photographers for seasonal, full time position from Aug. 23 – Nov. 16th in school photography. Photography experience preferred. Full training provided. Personal vehicle mandatory.

Mileage paid + hourly wage. Must be well organized, outgoing and excellent with children. This is a very challenging and rewarding job position. Work area required Belleville/Kingston area Please send resume to: tfallaise@lifetouch.com

Note for the right candidate there is a possible opening for further training and longer work opportunity in the other areas of our business in Graduation and Spring photography (longer work position). This candidate will be selected from the pool of seasonal photographers. The candidate who rises to the top in quality and customer service (during the fall season) will be asked to stay on for other photography opportunities.

Please send resume to Troy Fallaise email: tfallaise@lifetouch.com.

Job Requirements:

• Photography experience
• Customer service
• Well organized
• Excellent with all ages of children
• Friendly and outgoing
• Confident
• Professional appearance
• Well spoken
• Excellent problem solver

Application Procedure:
Employer Email

If by email, send to:
tfallaise@lifetouch.com

Application Material Required:
Cover Letter and Resume

Organization:
Lifetouch Canada

Job Contact:
Mr. Troy Fallaise

Contact Title:
Territory Manager

Phone:
(613) 613-969-0489

Fax:
(613) 613-966-9300

Website:
www.lifetouch.ca

Email:
tfallaise@lifetouch.com

Address:
1989 old Hwy # 2
Unit #4
Belleville, Ontario, Canada

Application Deadline: Aug 31, 2011 11:59PM

Tip of the Day Tuesday

Top 5 Characteristics Hiring Managers Seek in New Grads

Do you have what it takes to land your first job as a college graduate? A report released by entry-level job site CollegeGrad.com shows that, for the first time in two years, entry-level hiring is on the rise. That’s good news for job-seekers. But how do you set yourself apart from the competition? Luckily, the survey asked hiring managers what characteristics influenced their hiring decisions. We outline their top five answers for you here.

1. Undergraduate Major/Degree
It turns out that your choice of major matters a great deal more to many employers than how well you did in school. The survey results show that the most important hiring characteristic is actually a job candidate’s undergraduate major. In fact, more than one-third (34 percent) of employers report that the degree or major is important, while only a tiny fraction (3 percent) report that GPA had any bearing on hiring decisions. So when choosing which jobs to apply for, you should have a leg up if you choose a career that’s connected to your major.

2. Internship/Work Experience
Proving that you have what it takes to work full-time begins by demonstrating an interest in your field. Hopefully, you’ve done that by completing internships or gaining other relevant work experience.
24 percent of survey respondents said that internships or other work experience were very important to hiring decisions.

3. Interview/Communication Skills
Nearly a quarter (22 percent) of survey respondents said that how well a candidate interviews, along with his or her overall communication skills, were very important to hiring decisions. So be sure to be on time, make eye contact, speak clearly, and be prepared to answer an array of questions about yourself, as well as the company you’re seeking to join. (And for heaven’s sake, spit out your gum and turn off your cell phone!)

4. Undergraduate Institution
Compared to the top three factors, this one is small potatoes, so don’t fret if you didn’t get into Harvard or Princeton (or Amherst or Williams). However, 8 percent of hiring managers surveyed reported that where a candidate got his or her degree mattered to them. So, while it’s probably not a good idea to show up at your interview wearing your Swarthmore tee-shirt, finding a gracious way to mention your school may serve you well — and certainly include it on your resume.

5. Community Service
Like your choice of undergraduate institution — and your GPA — your choice to do volunteer work will matter to a small number of hiring managers. Only 4 percent listed it as an important factor when making hiring decisions. But since it could be the thing that tips the scales in your favor, don’t give up your weekend gig at the community radio station or your nights as a literacy volunteer just yet.

Post by Naomi Graychase, managing editor at Schools.com, http://www.careerdoctor.org/career-doctor-blog/2011/07/top-5-characteristics-hiring-m.html?utm_source=feedburnerutm_medium=feedutm_campaign=Feed%3A+Recruitingblogswapcom+%28Recruitingblogswap.com%29

Making It Big Monday

Get Ahead in Your Career

You go to work every day and you do your job. I am sure that you try your best to do this job well and that’s a great start, but did you ever stop to think that the job that you do is a really important part of a much bigger picture?

Few people take the time to understand the business that they are working for. They go to work every day, do what they are supposed to do and go home without another thought. While this is fine if you are satisfied with where you are, this is the wrong thing to do if you want to get ahead in your career.

Why do I want to learn about my company?

People that understand the big picture are better employees:

• They "get" the customer.
• They "get" the client.
• They "get" the supplier.
• They understand the market.
• They understand the history.
• They "get" the product.
• They know the mission.

Wouldn’t you want that person working for you - the one who doesn’t just perform their job but understands why their job is important?

When you learn about your company, you tend to see yourself as part of something bigger and will likely take more ownership in the part that you have to play in your company’s success.

What should I want to know about my company?

You want to know the history of the company:

1. How it got its start.
2. Why it was started.
3. You want to know what its biggest struggles are.
4. Learn who its best customers are.
5. Learn who the competition is.
6. Learn about anything that can make you understand the decisions that are made.

How do I learn about my company?

Make some appointments with people who can teach you what you want to learn:
Talk to people that have been there forever to tap into some of their historical knowledge.
Talk to senior people in other divisions.
Talk to senior people in your division.

Think of these conversations as interviews – only don’t tell anybody that you are interviewing them. Tell them that you want to speak with them so that you can do your job better.

What do I ask?

Firstly, you need to approach people properly. Make them feel important and intelligent and they will be happy to give you some of their time.

Schedule your meetings by saying, “I really want to understand more about the work that we do so I can do my job better. Do you have some time for me?”

Secondly, you need to prepare for these conversations. You want to come across as someone who is conscientious and responsible. Make sure to have a set of questions prepared before you meet anyone.

Here are some sample questions to ask.

• Can you tell me about the history of the company so I can understand my role better?
• Can you tell me what our biggest achievements have been?
• Can you tell me what our biggest struggles are?
• Where do we want to be in five years?
• Do you have anything that you can tell me that will help me do my job better?

How do I use this knowledge to get ahead?

Now that you have all this fantastic information you need to use it wisely. How to use it is very important.

Don’t be a know it all. Don’t rub it in people’s faces that you have met with all these great people in the company.

Use what you have learned to sound smarter in meetings. Use the connections that you have made to build relationships with people in the company. Use the information to do your job better and use it to show people that you really care about the organization.

Cheryl Stein, http://career-advice.monster.ca/career-development/getting-promoted/how-to-get-ahead-in-your-career-canada/article.aspx

Fun Facts Friday

Interviews Gone Bad!

Have an interview coming up? You'll never want to use the answers these candidates did!

Why Are You Interested in this Position?

- “I’m allergic to unemployment”
- “As you know, finding full time employment is very difficult right now. I have applied to over 200 positions within the last 2 years”
- “To keep my parole officer from putting back me in jail”

Why Do You Want to Work for This Company?

- “My spouse is interviewing for a job there so I need to be hired there too.”
- “Just for the benefits.”
- “It will look really neat on my resume”

Can You Tell Us More about Your Experience?

- “I’m even more computer illiterate than my resume shows”
- “This is personal information that I am not comfortable with sharing”
- “You have had two weeks to review my resume yet you still want to know about my experience. This is so typical of Human Resources.

Why Should We Hire You?

- “If you hire me, I will have the corporate logo tattooed to my forearm”
- “I would be a great asset to the events team because I party all the time”
- “If you don’t hire me, it would prove that the company’s management is incompetent.”

Describe Your Ideal Job?

- “I don’t know…I haven’t had it yet.”
- “What a ridiculous question to ask.”
- “I’ll tell you what I don’t want to be doing - sitting in boring meetings, doing grunt work and having to be nice to people all day long.”

What Are Your Weaknesses?

- “I get angry easily and I went to jail for it but I won’t get mad at you.”
- “I didn’t think you were allowed to ask that question in a job interview.”
- “I am saving this information until I get hired”

What Motivates You?

- “Salary is very important, my gambling debts are rising.”
- “I’ve got a big house, a big car and a big credit card balance. Pay me and I’ll be happy.”

Why Did You Leave Your Previous Employment?

- “My boss was stupid and would always argue with me about how to do my job”
- “I have a problem with authority”
- “I was dating my boss’s daughter and she is married”

Do You Have Any Questions about the Job?

- “What if I woke in the morning and didn’t feel like coming to work?”
- “How many women work here?”
- “If you were a fruit, what kind of fruit would you be?”
- “When you run background checks on candidates, do arrests come up?”
- “Are all the staff as cute as you?”

What Is Your Long Term Goal?

- “I’d like to have your job”

http://www.resumark.com/blog/andrew/funniest-job-interview-responses-how-not-to-answer-job-interview-questions/

Top Job Thursday

Personal Trainer

Definition and Nature of the Work

Personal exercise trainers provide one-on-one fitness instruction to people desiring a program tailored to their specific needs. Trainers evaluate their clients' physical fitness and keep track of their progress. They typically conduct sessions at a health club or a client's home. Clients may request that their trainers travel with them in order to keep up an exercise routine.

Trainers develop programs and choose exercises that provide the optimum results and take into account the activities their clients enjoy. They act as motivators who push clients to their physical limits. If a client has suffered an athletic injury, the trainer may create a special rehabilitation program. Trainers must be able to demonstrate the movements and exercises recommended. They also provide encouragement and support for the client and recognize the client's strengths and weaknesses.

Education and Training Requirements

Education, training, and background of trainers vary widely. Many trainers have a formal degree—either a bachelor's degree in physical education or a master's degree in adult fitness. However, some trainers have a background in dance, nursing, or sports.

High school courses in physical education, biology, psychology, and business will be useful. A future trainer should enjoy physical activity and understand how certain exercises work specific muscles. An understanding of basic nutrition is also helpful to provide supplementary information to a client. A trainer should also be knowledgeable about the variety of exercise equipment being used in homes and health clubs, because this equipment is often used in personal training programs. Involvement with running and sporting associations can provide experience and contacts.

Getting the Job

Personal exercise trainers usually work for themselves, or they may be hired by a fitness center. They develop a clientele largely through personal recommendations, advertising, and contact with health clubs.

Advancement Possibilities and Employment Outlook

The employment outlook for personal exercise trainers is excellent. As long as the public demand for sports and recreation and good health continues, personal trainers will have jobs. Opportunities will be best for those with extensive experience.

Personal trainers may start on a part-time basis with just a few private clients and progress to a steady flow of well-paying clients. As the demand for their services increases, personal trainers can open exercise studios and supervise other trainers.

Working Conditions

Trainers hold workouts in a variety of places, including health clubs, offices, hotels, and private homes. They may use various types of equipment, including treadmills, rowing machines, exercise bicycles, weight machines, free weights, and swimming pools. As business builds, a trainer must be able to schedule appointments efficiently and work under pressure. The one-on-one nature of the job calls for an understanding but firm approach to individual clients.

http://careers.stateuniversity.com/pages/349/Personal-Exercise-Trainer.html

Weekly Feature Wednesday

Job Title:
State Farm Agent

Position Type:
Immediate Full-time

Job Location:
BELLEVILLE

Job Description:
Be Your Own Boss As A State Farm Agent – BELLEVILLE

For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, the career as a State Farm Agent offers an incredible opportunity for motivated individuals to align themselves with a company that has earned the respect of its customers and community.

We are currently seeking successful people to become State Farm Agents and help us maintain and grow our leadership position in the insurance and financial services industry. Our agents are located throughout Canada and the United States. They work within their communities to exclusively market State Farm products. State Farm Agents receive compensation in relation to the sale and retention of quality, multiple-line insurance and financial services products.

We offer State Farm Agents:
One of the most recognized brand names in the industry.
Unparalleled support in the insurance and financial services industry.
A six to nine month paid internship including licensing, product knowledge and field development
Substantial start up allowance
Excellent benefit package
Office set up assistance

The State Farm Agent Opportunity allows you to create financial freedom and flexibility through a compensation package that rewards successful marketing of our products and services to customers.

Qualifications:
Ability to organize, operate and assume the risk of running a business with a focus on marketing and customer service.
University or College Degree highly desired
Driven by achievement and financial rewards.
Financially stable.
Ethical and easily able to build trust.
Proven success driving business results (not limited to insurance or financial services).

Application Procedure:
Employer Email

Send to:
Craig.johnstone.csom@statefarm.com

Application Material Required:
Resumé

Additional Application Information:
Explore the tremendous entrepreneurial opportunity of becoming a State Farm Agent to help people understand the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected and realize their dreams.
Few careers offer more variety and opportunity. And, as an independent contractor, you have the freedom to run your own State Farm insurance agency.

We thank you for your interest. Due to the number of applicants, only those selected for a telephone screening interview will be contacted. We wish you the best in your career endeavours.

Craig Johnstone BA, CIP
Agency Department, Canadian Zone Head Office
Craig.johnstone.csom@statefarm.com

Application Deadline:
Aug 08, 2011 11:59PM

Tip of the Day Tuesday

Treat Your Cover Letter Like A Love Letter

“But soft! What light through yonder window breaks? It is the East, and Juliet is the sun! Arise, fair sun, and kill the envious moon, who is already sick and pale with grief that thou her maid art far more fair than she.” -William Shakespeare: Romeo and Juliet

So maybe you don’t write like Shakespeare. You needn’t worry, given that a phrase like “kill the envious moon” would make employers wince if they read it in your cover letter. Still, you’ll need to stir the hearts of those who read your correspondence, quickening their pulse with anticipation to contact you.

There are ways to do this without being a Romance Era poet like Elizabeth Barrett Browning or Lord Byron. But we can learn from these classicists nonetheless.

Be The Knight (or for women, Chevalière) In Shining Armor

Every job posting is like a cry in the dark from a damsel in distress—no offense to damsels meant. “Help, help,” the ad shouts from its lair atop some remote medieval castle. “Rescue us oh brave and comely soul.”

Your cover letter should position you as the one who’ll arrive on a great white steed to sweep the employer off their feet. They need a problem solver, pronto. Thus include an example or two about how you’ve saved the day in previous roles.

For instance, “As a Sales Rep for Company Y, I created prospect lists of potential clients, cold called and networked myself into meetings with decision makers, and closed the sales cycle by signing tens of thousands of dollars in new business within my first three months.”

Know The Employer Intimately

When courting what could be the love of your life, do you not try to tickle his or her fancy by first uncovering, then striving to satisfy, their deepest, most intimate needs? This arduous process can take months or even years.

The procedure is somewhat similar when wooing a favoured employer. Fortunately much less time is involved. (Usually fewer boxes of long-stemmed roses and chocolate delights too.)

Employers tend to announce their deepest needs in the job posting itself. Generally they spell out what duties and responsibilities must be performed in the role being advertised. They go on to list the traits and experience of their “ideal” man or women (that is, an applicant like you).

Whisper the very words from the ad back into the ear of your prospective employer. Seduce them with tantalizing hints in your cover letter of how your skills, knowledge, education and experience are a perfect match for them.

Follow the advice of Jane Austen in her historical novel Sense and Sensibility: “It is not time or opportunity that is to determine intimacy; it is disposition alone. Seven years would be insufficient to make some people acquainted with each other, and seven days are more than enough for others.”

Express Your Love Freely

Your cover letter is a great place to serenade a potential employer. Tug at their heartstrings by telling them how much you admire and respect them based on your research.

You might say something like “As one of the biggest car dealerships in Calgary, I admire how you are leading the way in being environmentally friendly, by selling more electric and hybrid vehicles, and recycling liquids during tune-ups where possible. I would be proud to tell everyone that I work for you.”

Will You Be My Valentine?

To properly tempt an employer, use your cover letter like a love letter.

- Show how you can rescue them as if you’re a knight in shining armor. Include an example or two of how you’ve done so in the past in previous jobs.
- Familiarize yourself with them intimately. Customize your letter to the person (or people) you’re writing to. Express your love freely.

Do research to uncover reasons you’d be smitten with the employer

There’s no need to write like a poet, floating your precious words on gossamer wings and whiffs of the finest perfumes. This is after all an employment application.
However there’s something to be learned from the literary greats: words, when used wisely, are a powerful aphrodisiac, be they in poems or cover letters. As Shakespeare sayeth best: "How silver-sweet sound lovers' tongues by night, like softest music to attending ears!"

Mark Swartz, Monster Senior Contributing Writer, http://career-advice.monster.ca/resumes-cover-letters/cover-letter-tips/treat-cover-letter-like-love-letter/article.aspx

Making It Big Monday

20 Tips to Accelerate Your Career and Get Noticed -Part 2

Last Monday we looked at the first ten tips to accelerate your career...here's the last 10 tips that can help you get noticed! If you haven't seen part 1 yet check it out here: http://loyalistcareercentre.blogspot.com/2011/07/making-it-big-monday.html

11. Be Positive and Enthusiastic. Don't think you have to be serious all the time. People want to be around happy positive people. Be one of those people. See the good. Speak positively. And encourage everyone! Watch how it comes back to you!

12. Seek Out Mentors. If you see someone who is successful that you admire, go ahead and contact them. You'll be amazed at what happens when you just ask. Offer to help them in some way. And in return hopefully you'll be able to build a relationship with that person and learn from them over time. Just like building your support base, seek diversity in your mentors. You might have a couple of mentors that approach things very differently or maybe they work on completely different things. Learning from people with diverse experience will benefit you greatly.

13. Manage Your Career. Don't wait for your boss to send you to training. Don't wait for your boss to set your quarterly objectives. Don't wait for your boss to write your reviews. Don't wait for your boss to give your career coaching. Take the bull by the horns because often these things don't happen. Your boss might not be a bad boss, but in the age of downsizing, they may simply be overloaded with responsibilities. Don't spend your time critiquing your boss and lamenting the lack of coaching. Realize that you are the only one who can make it happen. Set your own goals. Bring them to your boss. Make it easy for your boss to review you by handing him or her all of your accomplishments from the past quarter. And seek out coaching all the time from lots of different people.

14. Understand the Big Picture. It's very easy to fall into tunnel vision with your own career or with your work-group. You may think that corporate headquarters is not giving you the resources you need. News bulletin: everyone always feels that way. It's the human condition to always want more. That's fine, but learn to make it happen on your own and to make due with what you have available. Try to understand where the company is headed in the long term and how your team fits into the overall picture. Again don't spend precious time whining about corporate headquarters. Instead think about how your team can be a model for supporting the company's overall goals and think about how you can be a leader on that front.

15. Learn How to Motivate People to Take Action. This is a leadership skill. If you can influence people to do things you will be able to implement your ideas to improve the company and make a difference for clients, which, in turn, will grow your career. How do you do this? You start by understanding what is important to any given person or work group you are trying to enlist for help. You must offer them some benefit that ties into those things that are most important to them. Speak in their language. And act with integrity. Fulfill your promises to build trust.

16. Always Be Learning. Seek out training and education. Take night courses. Read business books and trade magazines. Learn from your mentors, heroes, and enemies. And learn from your mistakes. Make a habit of reflecting on what you learned each day. And be creative with what you learn. You may learn something completely unrelated, but perhaps there is a parallel that fosters a new idea to grow business. Look for these kinds of opportunities.

17. Self Promotion. It's important to let people know about the good things you are accomplishing. Don't think that by just working hard that you'll get noticed. You need to let people know. Higher-ups like to know these things because they can't know everything that is going on, so speak up!

18. Focus on Excellence. In everything that you do, do it well. Dress well. Be on time. Deliver on your promises. Produce high quality work. In turn your career will manifest in accordance with your focus on excellence.

19. Recognize Moments of Truth. Every day you have moments of truth. The only problem is that there is no dramatic movie music to spur you on to do the right thing. You must learn to listen to that little angel on your shoulder. Often no one is watching at a moment of truth. Do you make those sales calls even though your boss is at an offsite meeting, or do you take the opportunity to leave early and go golfing? Which one is going to further your career? Do you contact that Vice-President to offer your great idea or do you talk yourself out of it? Do you take the additional 30 minutes after work to prepare extra well for an important meeting or do you decide to wing it since you've done this kind of thing before? When you consistently do the right thing at many moments of truth, they will add up to a massive positive impact on your career.

20. Make Others Feel Good. It's the Golden Rule. Encourage, praise, and support those on your team, and everyone for that matter. Don't fear other people's success. Celebrate it. Be sincere and demonstrate that by being specific in what you say.

http://www.dumblittleman.com/2007/11/20-tips-to-accelerate-your-career-and.html, K. Stone

Fun Facts Friday

Side-splitting Resume Bloopers!

• Achievements: “Nominated for prom queen”
• Interests: “Gossiping.”
• Employer: “Myself; received pay raise for high sales.”
• Reason for leaving: “I thought the world was coming to an end.”
• Skills: “I have integrity so I will not steal office supplies and take them home.”
• Objective: “To hopefully associate with a millionaire one day.”
• Qualifications: “I have guts, drive, ambition and heart, which is probably more than a lot of the drones that you have working for you.”
• Objective: “I need money because I have bills to pay and I would like to have a life, go out partying, please my young wife with gifts, and have a menu entrée consisting of more than soup.”
• Bad traits: “I am very bad about time and don’t mind admitting it. Having to arrive at a certain hour doesn’t make sense to me. What does make sense is that I do the job. Any company that insists upon rigid time schedules will find me a nightmare.”
• Special skills: “I’ve got a Ph.D. in human feelings.”
• Reason for leaving last job: “Bounty hunting was outlawed in my state.”
• Hobbies: “Mushroom hunting.”
• Experience: “Provide Custer Service.”
• Objective: “I am anxious to use my exiting skills.”•
• Personal: “My family is willing to relocate. However not to New England (too cold) and not to Southern California (earthquakes). Indianapolis or Chicago would be fine. My youngest prefers Orlando’s proximity to Disney World.”
• Why Interested in Position: “to keep my parole officer from putting back me in jail”


http://www.resumania.com/arcindex.html, http://management.fortune.cnn.com/2007/04/25/10-dumbest-resume-blunders/#comments, http://jobmob.co.il/blog/funniest-resume-mistakes/#ixzz1Qm4BdMcE

Top Job Thursday

Day Care Coordinator
Is it the Right Job For You?

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION
The Daycare Coordinator is responsible for developing, delivering and managing the Daycare Program in order to ensure a safe, developmentally appropriate environment for children.

SCOPE
The Daycare Coordinator will be responsible for a program to care for young children. He/she must ensure the development and safety of these children in accordance with relevant federal,territorial and Band legislation, policies and procedures. The Daycare Coordinator will ensure that staff are respectful of children and parents, and that equipment and facilities are clean, safe and well maintained. The Daycare Coordinator will monitor and record the numbers of children
participating in the program, costs of equipment and supplies, and other expenses, and any other information, as required. The Daycare Coordinator is responsible to keep current, accurate and confidential client and program files. The Coordinator will manage the Daycare budget, report on expenditures and revenues and supervise daycare staff. Failure to provide adequate services may result in an unsafe or unfit environment for children and/or financial mismanagement for the operation of the daycare.

RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Develop and implement a program for young children
2. Supervise and develop daycare staff
3. Manage the administration of the daycare program
4. Supervise children in the day care
5. Perform other related duties as required

KNOWLEDGE
The incumbent must have proficient knowledge in the following areas:
- Child development theories and practices
- Safe and appropriate activities for children
- Financial management
- Human resources management
- Child program development,implement and evaluation
- An understanding of the northern cultural environment
- Relevant legislation, policies and procedures to ensure that children are supervised and safe at all times

SKILLS
The incumbent must demonstrate the following skills:
- Team building skills
- Supervisory skills
- Analytical and problem solving skills
- Decision making skills
- Effective verbal and listening communications skills
- Stress management skills
- Time management skills
- Financial management skills
- Human resources management skills
- Administrative skills

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
The incumbent must maintain strict confidentiality in performing the duties of Day Care Coordinator. The incumbent must also demonstrate the following personal attributes:
- Be respectful
- Possess cultural awareness and sensitivity
- Be flexible
- Demonstrate sound work ethics
- Be consistent and fair
- Be compassionate and understanding
- Be able to build esteem while ensuring a safe

http://www.maca.gov.nt.ca/school/tools/JD_docs/Day%20Care%20Coordinator%20%20JD.p.pdf

Weekly Feature Wednesday

Looking to find a job as a Registered Practical Nurse? This could be the opportunity for you!

Job Title:
Registered Practical Nurse

Position Type:
Immediate Full-time

Job Location:
Amherstview ON

Job Description:
Helen Henderson Care Centre
“Our Family Caring for Your Family”
Come join our team in providing exceptional care for our Residents!

We are currently looking for:
Full Time & Part Time RPN

We Offer:
Competitive wages
Educational opportunities to enhance your skills & knowledge base
Supportive environment for reflective practice
Family atmosphere work environment

Requirements:
Available days, evenings, nights & weekends
Completion of approved medication course
Current registration with the College of Nurses in Ontario

Application Procedure:
Employer Email

If by email, send to:
suereynolds@gibsonfamilyhealthcare.com

If by Website, go to:
www.gibsonfamilyhealthcare.com

If by Fax, send to:
6133849407

Application Material Required:
Cover Letter
Resumé

Organization: Helen Henderson Care Centre

Division: 1

Job Contact:
Ms. Laura Christopher

Contact Title:
Office Manager

Phone:
(613)3844585

Fax:
(613)3849407

Email:
laurachristopher@gibsonfamilyhealthcare.com

Address:
343 Amherst Dr
Amherstview, Ontario
Canada

Region:
Kingston

Application Deadline:
Aug 04, 2011 11:59PM

Tip of the Day Tuesday

9 Steps to Getting that Job

If you’re actively job hunting, you’ve probably discovered that there are jobs out there. However, because you have so much competition, you also may be finding it difficult to generate a response from your efforts. If you’ve been focused on submitting your resume to job openings found on job boards, job search engines, Craigs List and in local newspapers, but have received few follow up calls and even fewer interview requests, then it’s time to develop a better strategy. Here are nine steps to help you get the job you want.

1. Identify not only the position you want (and are qualified for) but the companies you’d like to work for. Learn everything you possibly can about each company: its mission, work culture, what makes it unique and competitive, the qualities they look for in employees, and so on. If you believe that you and the company are a good fit, find someone who works there who would be willing to talk with you and provide additional insight.

2. Be sure to target companies that need what you have to offer. Prospective employers are going to be looking at what you can do for them, so think in terms of adding value to the company. Get very clear on what problem the hiring manager needs to solve with this hire and present yourself as their ideal recruit (provided you are!). Be ready to demonstrate how you’ve added value and solved similar problems for other companies by listing on your resume quantifiable results you achieved that added to the bottom line (rather than duties you performed).

3. Ramp up your networking efforts. Locate people who work in the companies you’re interested in through social networking sites like LinkedIn and Facebook. Take the time to build rapport before inquiring about job openings. With a little luck, you can develop relationships with people who will let you know as soon as the right job opens up, or who may even offer an introduction or to put in a good word for you. At the very least, they may be willing to give you advice on how to approach the person you need to speak with. Remember, while online social sites are a boon, people you run into every day can also provide good job leads. Be sure to have extra resumes with you at all times and let people know you’re looking.

4. While networking is a powerful job hunting tool, don’t abandon other sources of information about job openings. Be strategic about using job boards, job search engines, local newspapers and other sources.

5. Make sure your cover letter is top notch. Never send out generic cover letters. Instead, gear each one directly to the company. Use the information you collected in Step 1 to convey how much you want to work for THIS company by mentioning something about the company that impresses you. Also, briefly demonstrate experience you have in solving the problems they need solved – how you are the person who can help them achieve important company goals.

6. Follow up after sending out your resume. Make a follow-up phone call or send a follow-up email asking if you can schedule an interview. Chances are the hiring managers has a lot of resumes to sort through. Being proactive can make you stand out while demonstrating that you’re willing to take the initiative. However, be careful not to seem pushy, overly confident or arrogant.

7. Send a thank-you note after each interview. It’s common courtesy to thank the employer for his or her time. Chances are the person who sends a thank-you note will win out over equally qualified candidates who don’t.

8. If you sent a thank-note and don’t hear anything within the decision-making timeframe you were given, make another follow-up call. Be polite but gently persistent. This shows you’re really interested in the job, and keeps you in the forefront of the hiring manager’s mind.

9. Make job-hunting your full time job. Continue to broaden your network. Contact individuals every day with the goal of getting referrals and setting up interviews.

http://blog.resumebear.com/featured-articles/9-steps-to-getting-that-job/