Tip Tuesday

How to Prepare for a Job Fair

Job Fairs are an excellent way to meet a large number of potential employers at one time. Job Fair attendance is useful because it gives you an opportunity to network, pass out copies of your resume, and improve your communication and interview skills.

JOB FAIR TIPS

1. Research Companies – Do your homework. Visit the Career Services Career Fair website for a list of participants to find out in advance who will be attending the Job Fair. Visit the organization’s web sites or read current business articles to learn more about their products, missions, annual budgets, and organizational structure. This will enable you to ask better questions of the company representatives.
2. Prepare Your Resume/Portfolio – Bring lots of copies of your resume. Have your resume reviewed prior to the Job Fair. Bringing a few selected work samples can make a positive first impression on a prospective employer.
3. Present a Professional Appearance – Dress up. Conservative, tailored, business-like clothing is best. Pay close attention to personal hygiene and grooming. Minimal make-up and jewelry. Avoid perfume and/or cologne. Recruiters are watching and listening to determine if you act professionally. Smile.
4. Check Your Attitude – Be optimistic, but have realistic expectations. You will meet employers who are interested in hiring in your field. There may not be immediate vacancies, but when openings occur, the employer will think of you because of your first impression.
5. Practice Your Introduction – Is your handshake a “floppy fish” or a bone-crunching experience? Practice your handshake. Rehearse a brief introduction. Be able to tell the employer about your immediate career goals.
6. Have strategies – Make an “A” list (favorites/must meet) and a “B” list (nice to meet – if time permits). Go to a few “B” list employers first to practice your introduction and questions. Then you’ll be warmed up and feel more confident when you will meet your “A” list recruiters.
7. Avoid long lines – Don’t stand in long lines. Check out the companies without a lot of people lined up. Try to meet the recruiters during down times (especially in the morning or lunch time). You’ll get more of their attention and be able to learn more about the company and hiring opportunities.
8. Gather information - Request a business card from each employer or ask for their name and title. Pick-up all company literature so you can review it after the job fair.
9. Follow-up After the Interview - Follow-up within a week with a letter to each employer that you met. Include the date and time you met, a review of one or two of your primary qualifications with a reference to your knowledge of the company and a request a formal interview.

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Making it Big Monday

Career and Job Fair Do's and Don'ts

Here are the keys for students and job-seekers to successfully navigating a career or job fair. Follow these simple rules and guidelines and you should achieve success in this important strategic tool of job-hunting.

• Do have a specific strategy for maximizing your time at the event. And don't bother spending time with recruiters from companies that do not interest you.
• Do pre-register for the event, and do attempt to get the list of attending companies before the career fair.
• Don't eliminate companies because they are recruiting for positions outside your field; take the time to network with the recruiter and get the name of a hiring manager for your particular career field.
• Do attempt to research basic information about each company you hope to interview with at the job fair. A common career fair question from recruiters is, "Why do you want to work for our company?"
• Don't just drop your resume on the recruiter's table and walk off.
• Do prepare a one-minute "commercial" that focuses on the unique benefits you can offer the employer -- a version of your elevator speech. And do be prepared for common interview questions.
• Do be prepared to talk about your work experiences, skills, and abilities. And for college students, do be prepared for a question about your GPA by some recruiters. (And do use the GPA -- overall, college, major -- that makes you look the strongest.)
• Don't be afraid or intimidated by the recruiter; he or she is there to do a job -- to meet and screen potential candidates.
• Do have a few questions prepared for each recruiter, but don't ask questions that any good job-seeker should already know, such as "What does your company do?" Do check out these Questions to Ask at Career and Job Fairs.
• Do say the recruiter's name several times during your conversation, even if you have to keep glancing at the recruiter's nametag. And do get a business card (or at least contact information) from each recruiter.
• Don't forget to eliminate such bad habits as playing with your hair, chewing gum, fidgeting, rocking from side-to-side, acting distracted, rubbing your nose, etc.
• Do remember all the keys to successful interviewing, including a firm handshake, a warm smile, eye contact, and a strong voice.
• Don't use filler words such as "um", "like", "you know."
• Do bring enough copies of your resume to the career fair. And do bring different versions of your resume if you are searching for different types of jobs.
• Do take advantage of the time you have to build rapport with each recruiter, but don't monopolize their time.
• Don't ever just walk up to a booth and interrupt a current conversation; wait your turn and be polite.
• Do dress professionally -- conservative is always the safe choice. And do wear comfortable shoes.
• Don't waste the opportunity to network, not only with the recruiters, but with fellow job-seekers and other professionals in attendance at the career fair.
• Don't ever say anything negative to the recruiter about your college or previous jobs, companies, or supervisors.
• Do be sure to ask about the hiring process of each company, but don't ask too many questions about salaries, vacation time, and other benefits.
• Do take the initiative and ask about the next step in the process. And do be prepared to follow-up all job leads.
• Do be sure to follow-up with each recruiter. Some experts say to call and leave a message on their voicemail right after the job fair, but at a minimum you should send each recruiter a thank you letter.

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Tip Tuesday

How to Land A Job BEFORE You even Graduate - 34 Tips and Resources

1) Figure it out. The first step in landing that job is figuring out what it is that you want to do! It may seem heavy, but you got to start somewhere. If you're already in school, you have a sense of what industry you'd like to work in (or your hopelessly lost!). Start with that and explore what options you'll have working in that industry at the entry level position.
2) Know the job. After you figure out the kind of job you want, you need to know what the job entails. Learn as much as possible about the job so you can focus on learning and obtaining the skills needed to fulfill the duties required. If know exactly what an employer will be looking for, then it'll be much easier to have it come interview time.
3) Make sure you're qualified. Now that you know what the duties are, it's time to assess your skills. Do you have what it takes to get the job done? Will you be qualified at the time you graduate for this position? There's no point in preparing yourself for a job you can't even get. Know what you're capable of doing and find a job that fits.
4) Take the right classes. The earlier you figure out what kind of job you want, you'll have the opportunity to take the right kinds of classes while in college. It's never a good idea to spend tens of thousands of dollars on your education if it's not focused on a specific end. Plan in advance and take courses that fit into your job description.
5) Take your education seriously. Again, don't waste your money on education if it's not going to be put to use. While you're there, pay attention as much as possible to what you are learning; it not only will prepare you for the job you'll soon have but also give you a taste of what you'll be doing, and will show when you start your career.

Work Experience
6) Get a part-time job. Employers will want to see at least some experience. Even if mommy and daddy are taking care of you like the spoiled little brat that you are, consider having a part time job while in school. The pay might not be great, but at least you'll show some responsibility to any future employers.
7) Make it relevant. Now that you've decided to get off your butt and get a job, think about getting a job that will teach you skills you can use in the future. Don't get a job working in a warehouse doing physical labor if you plan on having a career in sales. Know what basic job principals you need work on and find a job to help strengthen them.
8) Don't get fired. It's bad enough that you only have so little experience up to this point. What's even worse is not having good responsible experience. Getting fired from a job that anyone can do (including a monkey) just shows how irresponsible and immature you are. If you're going to get a job, take it as seriously as possible.
9) Leave a impression. Be the best you can be! Every part time job you have, no matter how insignificant it may seem, plays an integral role in how you develop as a worker and employee. As you succeed in small doses, you grow more confident in your abilities which in turn makes you do an even better job. The cycle of confidence will show later on in the job hunt.

References 
10) Get to know your teachers. Leaving an impression with your teachers is just the same as making nice with an employer. Teachers are experts in their field, and if you can get in on your teacher's good side (or even befriend one), they'll prove to be a great personal reference later in the hiring process.
11) Find a mentor. Take the time to seek out those in your community who share similar interests or even more so work in the same industry that you are trying to get into. You're bound to find someone who you can grab coffee with here and there who's willing to share some tips and information on how to get your foot in the door.
12) Connect with your peers. Make sure your fellow students and friends are aware of your job plans. You might connect with a few that are interested in getting a similar job and can assist you in the process. While you my face some competition, use it to your advantage by keeping an eye on their moves; you can learn a lot from them.
13) Network with everybody. That being said, get out there and start networking! It's kind of a sad truth, but much of life is not based on how smart you are or what it is you know; it's who you know that gets you the good job. Locate places where people of similar interests hang out (happy hours are a good start) and make your face a familiar one.

Activities
14) Have a hobby. You've got to do something with yourself other that working and sleeping that you enjoy (and no getting drunk is not a hobby as much as we all tell ourselves it is!). Try to take your hobby to the next level and compare it to the job or industry you're getting into. Can you find any similarities?
15) Join an organization. There are many organizations and associations located in your area. Find one that you can enjoy being a part of or better yet, find a club that people with influence frequent. Use these events to find common ground with people and plant the seeds for possible job opportunities in the future.
16) Play sports. Almost any job you'll ever get will deal heavily with your ability to work with others. What better way to showcase these abilities than to excel at a team sport? You don't have to be some amazing athlete to play in a sport, and don't always worry about being the all-star. Become an unsung-hero type and it will build character.
17) Share Your Talents. Are you an artist or musician? What kind of gifts do you have to bestow upon the world? Put your artwork in galleries or play a concert at the local coffee house. It will shine on your resume the next time you have an interview, and show potential employers that you have multiple talents and aren't afraid to use them.

Reputation Management
18) Know your criminal record. Have you had any tickets or violations in the past? Know what your criminal record is in case someone checks you out and brings it up in front of you. Never try to hide from any law-breaking you may have committed, but rather be aware of your past and prepared to discuss any details should someone bring them up.
19) Use Google Alerts. A great way to keep on top of what is being said about you online is to use Google Alerts. What happens is, anytime someone blogs about you or mentions your name, Google will know about it. They'll send you emails once they find something! It's also a great way to keep updated about news and events in your industry.
20) Be aware of social networks. We all have MySpace and Facebook accounts; be wary of what pictures of you there are or anything else that may prohibit you from getting hired at a future job. Most of these networks have options to close pages off so only "friends" can view your personal profiles.
21) Get Published. A fantastic way to show your expertise in your industry is to get published either online or in a magazine. Do some research and find out who hires freelance writers; or, you may be able to get published by donating an article. Either way, it's a great tool that any employer would be impressed with.
22) Pay Your Bills. Many employers don't run credit checks on you, but in today's day and age, there's bound to be all kinds of snooping around into your personal life. Make sure you don't have any outstanding tax liens or collections agencies chasing you down for debts you haven't paid.

Self Promotion
23) Build a website. Trust me, if you start a website now that describes your career and accomplishments, you'll definitely reap the benefits once interview time comes around. Many employers are using the web to do background checks on prospects; use your website to make a name for yourself online.
24) Blog as much as possible. Add a blog or use blogging software to maintain updates on your website. Discuss your targeted industry as much as possible. Provide helpful information or talk about how a certain task could be done better or in a different way. This will prove your passion for the job in addition to your knowledge.
25) Create a podcast. Record a podcast every now and then that takes your discussion further. Much like getting published, you could have your podcast published on other sites and blogs and keep track of how many times the podcast was downloaded. Interviews with others in your industry provide great content for a podcast.
26) Shoot a video. Grab a friend and a video camera and shoot a quick introduction to yourself and your website. Amid the hundreds if not thousands of paper resumes an employer has to go through in their lifetime, you're bound to make a big impression by hosting a welcome video on your site.
27) Have business cards. Remember those networking events we discussed earlier? Joined an organization? Have a friend of a friend who knows someone at the place you're trying to work at? Get some business cards printed with your contact information and web address to show everybody you mean business.
28) Run and advertisement. Take the business card to the next level and purchase a small advertisement in your local paper. You could offer a service that plays into the career you're about to get into and maybe even get some freelance work you can use to build up your resume.
29) Use pay-per-click. Anyone can run an affordable advertisement using Google or Yahoo. Target specific keywords that are used often in your target industry and raise some eyebrows online. You could even target your ads geographically if you had different locations in mind.

Find the Job
30) Join Linked-in. Think MySpace for professionals. The more people you meet using Linked-in that already have a presence in your industry, the more chances you have to landing that dream job right off the bat. Simply another way the Internet is changing the way employees get found and hired.
31) Search Online. Start using Monster.com and other online job search services. Post your resume with your targeted graduation date. You never know when a potential employer could be out looking for you, and it doesn't mean they won't give you a shot just because school's not over with.
32) Grab the Yellow Pages. Search the Yellow Pages for companies in your area that you'd consider working for. Contact them and send the your resume, letting them know what your intentions are in the future. They might offer you an internship which you can turn into a full time gig once you graduate.
33) Check out Craigslist. New job listings are posted every day on Craigslist; take advantage of it. Try to find opportunities whenever you can, just to see if someone will bite. Try to get as many interviews as possible; even if you don't get hired, each one will prepare you for the next.
34) Pick up the paper. Lots of employers still use the classifieds to find employees. Don't rule it out when looking for a job opportunity. Get out there, pick up the phone, and get that big job before you even graduate!

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Making It Big Monday

Advance Your Career: Tips To Help You Stand Out In Your Profession

During the course of my career I was able to compile tips, techniques, and strategies which I feel can serve to advance one’s career and help you to stand out at work. I have to admit it was only through trial and error that I was able to put these things into practice. You make plenty of mistakes but you never give up you always want to try and move forward. It’s only through perseverance and determination that you are able to accomplish those things that seem impossible at times. Here are some attributes that have served me well in my pursuit of success.

Number 1. Know yourself – your strengths, abilities and limitations. Once you know your major characteristics you will be able to pin point the career path you should take and put all of your energy attention and passion into that endeavor. There is nothing worse that giving something your all while you are speeding along on the wrong career path, putting all your talent and ability to work doing things that you can never be the best at.

Number 2. Be a prudent risk taker – Think Big. To stand out at work and get ahead of the times calls for you to take risks. You should take risks only when they have been well thought out and planned. Never go hap hazard into any venture will out giving it some thought and developing a plan of action to get there. You also have to think big. When you develop a plan of action it should encompass the entire organization, or an entire department. It should never be just about you. Think big and try to develop win/win situations whenever possible. Think in terms of impacting the entire organization.

Number 3. Set Goals that Stretch You. You have to get out of your comfort zone. Establish some goals that are attainable with effort. When you have goals that stretch you chances are you’re excited, enthusiastic, passionate, and energetic in the pursuit of those goals. Goals that are easily attained don’t ignite any type of fire within.

Number 4. Keep your horizons and interest broad. Never limit your career perspective and outlook. There are always other possibilities and different roads to travel. Learn new things at every opportunity because you never know when your increased knowledge base is going to enable you to take on greater responsibility in the form of a promotion.

Number 5. Learn from failure and mistakes. It’s okay to fail and have set backs. Every person that has achieved any type of note worthy success will tell you that they have failed not only once but sometimes three or four times. Use your failures as learning experiences that catapult you forward to take on the next challenge. Make amendments and adjustments based on the lessons learned from
past failures. Never let failures impede your progress.

Number 6. Remember the first person plural – think in terms of we. Share your best demonstrated practices with your co-workers, teammates, department, and the entire organization if possible. When you help another person meet their goals and objectives it in turn helps you achieve the career advancement you seek. Always look for ways to help others.

Number 7. Keep your sense of humor. Never get characterized as a person who can never have fun or is always serious. You can be perceived as unapproachable and this can limit your career advancement and keep you from getting ahead and standing out.

Number 8. Develop your interpersonal skills – communicate well. It is imperative that you enhance your ability to communicate. Look for ways to improve your presentation skills. If you are able to communicate with every level of employee within an organization, including upper management, this will do more to help you stand out.

Number 9. Work hard – very hard. Be the first one to work and the last one to leave. When you work on a project try to get it done efficiently and effectively. Make working hard a habit. Become known as the person who works harder and smarter than all others within your department.

Number 10. Be committed to the vision. Find ways expand on the company vision or mission. Be exceptionally committed to the cause.

Number 11. Share the responsibility and the credit. Look for ways to recognize your peers, and upper management. Be quick to praise others for their accomplishments.

Number 12. Keep your word. Develop a reputation for integrity and honesty. Do what you say you will do. Others will begin to trust you and look to you for answers and you will become known as a person with a good reputation.

Put these things into action consistently and you will begin to stand out at work in the sight of all involved.

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Tip Tuesday

101 Job Tips To Land Your Dream Job (Part 5 of 5)

Are you looking for a better job? A better Career? Recently laid off? No matter what the reason for your job search there are plenty of traditional—and not so traditional ways to find a new job. Here is part five (five part series) of 101 of the hottest job tips in town. There will be 20 new tips released every Tuesday for the next couple of weeks. Take time each Tuesday and read the twenty tips given. No matter how common they sound, a little tweaking always goes a long way.

81. Be nice to everyone you talk to: Be especially nice to the “gatekeepers”, those people whose job it is to protect the higher ups from unsolicited calls. They have the power to put your call through, or dump you to voice-mail.

82. Be prepared for delays: Don’t schedule an interview just before a doctor’s appointment, jury duty, or school car pool time. You will be too antsy to leave to be able to concentrate on the interview. Interviews before yours can run overtime—or yours could run long.

83. Show up early: Leave your house a bit before you need to and make sure to arrive on time.

84. Have a lunch interview? Brush up on your table manners—and pass on the alcohol, even if your host takes a drink. Order something that is easy to eat is a good idea as well—a job interview is not the best time for a messy burger and chili fries.

85. Have a second interview? If you did a great job on your first go–round, take the time to do some more in–depth research—the questions may be a little harder for this round.

86. Send a thank you note: After you have had an interview, follow up with a brief “thank you” note. Not many applicants do and it will keep you at the front of the pack of applicants.

87. Expect more than one interview: Companies have many applicants to weed through and you may need to interview with more than one person before securing a new position. Don’t be surprised if you need to meet with several people, on several different occasions before the offer comes in.

88. Offer references—and check them in advance! Ask someone if they are willing to be a reference for you before adding them to your resume.

89. Make sure your references will represent you well: A reference that gives you a “so–so” review will hurt your chances of getting that great new job!

90. Research pay rates for the job you want: Search online to get an idea what others in your field make. You should have an idea of what to expect, so you will know if an offer is a good one or not.

91. Read the materials you have been given: If you have been given information about the companies benefits program, or other job details, read through them after the interview.

92. Review benefits packages: A good benefits package can add thousands in value to your compensation package—and a poor one can cost you in the long run.

93. Labor Union: If you are in a skilled trade, look to your local group for job support. You may be able to get advanced notice of job openings and even get some apprenticeship or job training.

94. Waiting for the right offer? Consider freelancing while you wait. You will earn some extra money—and freelance jobs can easily convert to regular, fulltime positions!

95. Teach what you know: Colleges often hire “adjunct professors”, people who are experts in their chosen fields, or who excel in a particular area. You do not need a teaching degree to work as an adjunct and doing so can allow you to earn some extra money while increasing your networking potential.

96. Look in to a “recession proof” job: Certain positions are not affected by a recession—teachers, security people, police officers, IT and legal support teams are in demand even during a recession.

97. Look for “special interest” help: Are you a Veteran, or do you fall into a special interest category? If you do, there may be help available to you via your local employment commission or Veteran’s Affairs office. Be sure to check these avenues if you qualify.

98. Create your own job: Consider starting your own business. With your own business, the next time you use a job search engine you may be looking for employees of your own!

99. Consider a seasonal position: Some seasonal jobs convert to fulltime positions as well, so keep your eyes open for year round openings with your seasonal employer.

100. Don’t give up: It may take a while to find the right job—but the perfect job for you is out there and you will find it.

101. Don’t get discouraged and don’t stop trying to find the right position for you.

To view original article CLICK HERE

Tip Tuesday

101 Job Tips To Land Your Dream Job (Part 3 of 5)

Are you looking for a better job? A better Career? Recently laid off? No matter what the reason for your job search there are plenty of traditional—and not so traditional ways to find a new job. Here is part three (five part series) of 101 of the hottest job tips in town. There will be 20 new tips released every Tuesday for the next couple of weeks. Take time each Tuesday and read the twenty tips given. No matter how common they sound, a little tweaking always goes a long way.

41. Be old fashioned: Social media, twitter and related technologies are great—but sometimes simply submitting your application and following up by phone is the best approach. Do your homework and find the job online, then mail in a hard copy resume—you will stand out as someone who took the time to do it right.

42. Apply for jobs that may not exist: Even if you don’t see a want ad or job posting, consider sending your resume to any company that hires workers in your field. You may get lucky and find an opening that simply is not being advertised.

43. Apply at unconventional places: You may think your local hospital doesn’t have any jobs for you if you aren’t a doctor, nurse, or health-care worker. You would be wrong! A large organization, like a hospital, has a full staff of marketing, PR, IT and administrative positions. The same is true for other large employers that may seem like they are not a good match for your skills.

44. Apply for jobs that are beneath your current level: If you are out of work, or desperate to make a change, consider applying for a job that is a small step down from your current position, as long as there is some improvement to your current situation. A new position that is closer to home or has fewer hours or better benefits can make it worth taking a small cut in pay or title.

45. Apply for jobs that are above your current level: Don’t feel limited by the most recent job you have had! If you see a job that would be a bit of a promotion for you, apply for it—you may be more ready than you think!

46. Apply for jobs that are listed as part-time: A part time job can sometimes extend into a full-time position over time. If you secure a part time job, you will also be on hand to apply for any in–house job openings that come up as well.

47. Create an “elevator speech” about yourself: An elevator speech is a quick one or two sentence spiel about who you are and what you do. If you have one prepared in advance, you won’t stumble around the next time someone asks what you do for a living.

48. Use your social contacts to find work: If you are on one of the large social media sites, make sure you let everyone know you are looking for a job.

49. Share your contacts with other job seekers: If you know others who are seeking work, share your resources. You will both expand your horizons if you share.

50. Target organizations you would like to work for: Do some research online. Visit their sites and look for employment information—you may find jobs listed that don’t appear in search engine listings.

51. Think locally: While many large employers utilize the internet to find employees, many small businesses do not. Use your local paper to keep an eye out for jobs with businesses in your hometown.

52. Join your local business association: Join the Chamber of Commerce or any other local business group you can. The contacts you make may be able to point you in the right direction for your next job—and you may hear of openings before they are even advertised in the paper.

53. Don’t overlook the government: The government is a huge employer, encompassing federal, state, local and civilian jobs with the military.

54. Use your local resources: Even if you aren’t a college student, you may be able to use the college library to research jobs or even work on your resume. No college access? Use your local town library instead.

55. Go back to college: Check in with your Alma Mater to see if they offer any type of alumni job placement services—a number of them do.

56. Belong to a church or house of worship? Let your fellow friends know that you are looking. They may know of a job opening, or be able to give you a personal referral.

57. Take some classes: Brush up on your skills, especially if you have been in the same job for a long time. Taking a semester of night classes in the latest computer technologies, or getting a new certification may give you an edge over the competition.

58. Subscribe to your alumni newsletter: Many colleges offer an alumni newsletter or magazine and they often have job listings with local companies looking for specific degrees or skills. If you don’t receive the publication, you won’t get these leads.

59. Join a professional trade organization: If your field has a trade group, make sure you become a member. Check the trade group’s website and newsletter for targeted job leads.

60. Become known as an expert in your field: Contribute to trade journals, speak at conferences and post to relevant websites and blogs. The more people who know you and your work, the more chances you have to make a new contact when you are seeking a job.

To view original article CLICK HERE

Tip Tuesday

101 Job Tips To Land Your Dream Job (Part 2 of 5)

Are you looking for a better job? A better Career? Recently laid off? No matter what the reason for your job search there are plenty of traditional—and not so traditional ways to find a new job. Here is part two (five part series) of 101 of the hottest job tips in town. There will be 20 new tips released every Tuesday for the next couple of weeks. Take time each Tuesday and read the twenty tips given. No matter how common they sound, a little tweaking always goes a long way.

21. Behave yourself online: If you have a profile on a social site like Facebook or Myspace, make sure that you are presenting yourself in the best light possible. An employer may not be able to see your full posts…but they can see your profile picture and other personal tidbits, so make sure nothing you post will hurt your chances.

22. Use your blog or site as a platform: If you blog about something related to your work, make sure you include your blog on your application, if it establishes you as an expert in your field.

23. Create an online portfolio: Writers, artists and other creative types can create an online portfolio or gallery of sorts to showcase their best work. Using an online portfolio allows prospective employers to see a variety of your samples and get a real idea of the type of work you are capable of.

24. Put your friends and family to work: Let your friends and family know you are looking for a job—they might have a friend, in–law, or business associate that is hiring. A personal recommendation gives you an edge over any other applicants.

25. Know someone who is planning on leaving a great job? Get a jump on the competition by asking for a referral. If you know someone who is leaving a job due to relocation, the birth of a new baby, or any other reason, ask for a referral. You may be able to apply for their position before the company has time to post the job opening!

26. Have a job already. It is easier to find a new job when you still have a job—even if it is a job you don’t like. Actually receiving a paycheck takes some of the pressure off of you. When you are not worried about your bills, you can take the time to concentrate on finding the right job for you.

27. Use any resources your former employer offers: Your employer may offer some resources for your use, like resume help, retraining, interviewing, or career counseling. Make sure you take advantage of any services they offer, as you may have to pay for these things on your own otherwise.

28. Apply for unemployment: If you are eligible to do so, apply for unemployment benefits right away. Even if you think you will land a new job immediately, you should apply, just in case. Most unemployment offices offer job placement and training help to job seekers in addition to the monetary benefits.

29. Treat your job search like a full time job: Out of work? If you are, you have plenty of time on your hands. Make finding the right job at the right salary your new full-time hobby—and spend your time perfecting your resume, finding new places to submit applications and researching potential employers.

30. Get out of bed and off the couch: It sounds crazy, but getting up each morning like you are going to work will help keep you productive—and help keep your job search on track. Vegging out in front of the television or bringing on donuts at 11am is not going to land you the job you want!

31. Make a “to–do” list for each day: Writing down a firm plan for the day will help you be productive and get things done. Decide on a target goal for each day and cross each item off your list as you complete it. Having goals will keep you from wandering aimlessly and keep your job hunt on track.

32. Make sure you are easy to contact: Make sure the phone number you put on your resume is one that you can either answer immediately, or one that has voice-mail.

33. Create a professional sounding email address for your job search: Yourname@gmail.com is much better than a handle like “hotchick” or “beerdude” if an employer is trying to reach you via email.

34. Look online for great resume samples: Need resume help? Search online for some free resources and you will find everything from templates to sample resumes you can use as a great starting point for your resume.

35. Hire a pro: If you are just totally stuck and unable to produce a great resume, consider hiring a professional to do it for you.

36. Create a DIY marketing package: When a company rolls out a new product, they make sure everything associated with it sends a strong message. Review your resume, cover letter—and even your envelopes and stamps to be sure they are sending the message you want.

37. Include a cover letter with every resume you send out: You can make a simple template letter and modify it to suit your needs. Including a cover letter allows a little more of your personality to shine through and gives you additional opportunities to sell yourself as the ideal person for the job in question.

38. Search online for opportunities: Make sure you search by both area and job title, and repeat your search every day—doing so ensures you will be one of the first applicants when a new job appears. You can find over 100,000 open jobs at http://www.findajobalready.com/jobs/browse.

39. Consider working at home: Some employers allow you to work from your own home in a variety of capacities. A work at home job can be a great opportunity, but be very careful, there are a lot of scams out there you will need to avoid. True work at home jobs do exist, but you will need to seek them out…the “jobs” that show up in your inbox unsolicited are not the ones for you.

40. Make sure your home phone and cell phone have voicemail: And make sure your outgoing message is professional and to the point.

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Top Job Thursday

10 Careers for People Who Love to Travel

Some people's idea of a vacation is visiting their in-laws on the other side of town. Others want to get away at any and every opportunity -- the farther away the better. If given the chance, they'd climb Mt. Kilimanjaro one day and compare Impressionists at the Louvre the next.

These intrepid travelers will brave any terrain or climate. They'll even repeatedly subject themselves to airport security just for the chance to go somewhere new.

If you get twitchy staying in the same place for too long, why settle for a few measly vacations a year? Satisfy your wanderlust on every one of those 365 days by embarking on a career that will have you really going places -- and not just up the corporate ladder.

When you think about travel jobs, the travel industry (pilot, flight attendant) probably jumps to mind, but there are also many not-so-obvious career options for people who like to get around. We've searched the globe and found 10 of the best careers for people who love to travel. So update your resume, pack your bags and get ready to explore.

10: Travel Nurse

These days, good nurses are in high demand and short supply. That nursing shortage can work to your advantage if you're trained and capable.
You could always get a job at your local hospital, but then you'd be dealing with the same responsibilities and working with the same people every day. Or you could travel around the country going from one hospital gig to another and caring for people in many different cities.
Travel nurses temporarily fill open positions wherever they're needed. You might tend to a jellyfish sting in Hawaii one day and nurse a broken leg in Aspen the next. Labor and delivery nurses, emergency room nurses, and operating room nurses are just a few of the positions that are in constant high demand around the country.
As a travel nurse, you'll work for a company that will provide you with accommodations (often a furnished home), a travel stipend to help you get from one hospital to another and a very competitive salary that is usually higher than what permanent nurses earn.

9: Athletic Scout

How do basketball players make the leap from the high school court to the NBA? How does a football player go from the college bowl to the Super Bowl? Athletes wouldn't be able to achieve their dreams without the help of athletic scouts.
Athletic scouts work for colleges and professional sports teams, or they can freelance for several different teams. Their job is to seek out the best and brightest young athletes and recruit them onto the teams they represent. To find those players, scouts scour newspaper and TV reports for stories of gifted athletes. They also have to sit through a lot of high school or college games around the country, and sometimes abroad.
To make an effective athletic scout, you need to know your sport inside and out from playing it, coaching it or watching it incessantly. You also need to have a knack for spotting young talent on the field and court. Pro teams and colleges shell out a lot of money for scholarships and contracts, and they want their investment to pay off with winning players. That means athletic scouts are under a lot of pressure to find good talent.

8: Roadie

Who hasn't dreamed of going out on the road with the Rolling Stones or U2? How many music fans have imagined traveling from gig to gig and hanging with their favorite band? If the touring part of being in a road crew weren't exciting enough, there's also the thrill of working with some of the biggest names in the music and entertainment business.
Road crew members -- affectionately known as roadies -- are the folks who handle the stage productions for touring acts. Lighting and sound engineers, riggers, stagehands and instrument technicians are all considered roadies.
As with most jobs, you've got to pay your dues to make it in the roadie business. You'll probably start out lugging around lighting and sound equipment at a small venue or theater to start. Once you've learned the ropes, and with a little luck, you can work your way up to touring with the major music acts.

7: Tour Guide

One of the most obvious career choices if you love to travel is to become a tour guide. In what other job can you spend your days exploring cities like Athens, Rome or London -- and get paid for it?
Every city that attracts tourists needs tour guides. Some guides work for a particular location (such as a museum), while others lead themed tours (like ghost tours or historical bus tours). If you're particularly good at your job, you can eventually work your way up to become a director or even owner of a tour company.
To be a tour guide, you not only need to know your city inside and out -- its history, culture and hidden secrets -- but you also need to relate well to people. You've got to make your tour group feel comfortable in a city that's unfamiliar to them. Depending on the type of tour, you may also need to help them handle small emergencies that arise, from getting medical care to finding lost luggage.
If you're planning to be a tour guide abroad, it helps to speak another language (or two, or three) and to have a solid education in the history and culture of the area.

6: Civil Servant

If you want to work for the U.S. government and see the world at the same time, check with the U.S. Department of State. This government agency has hundreds of different job opportunities available for people who want to represent U.S. interests abroad. The government has 265 different embassies around the globe, as well as many other offices where people can work in civil service jobs.
Whether your background is in engineering, security, accounting, healthcare, management, IT or operations, there's probably a civil service position related to your skills. Civil service jobs not only give you the chance to travel, but many positions pay well and offer relocation, cost-of-living allowances and excellent benefits.
One caveat: If you haven't paid your taxes in a few years or you've broken the law a couple of times, you'll have to satisfy your wanderlust in a nongovernment gig. The U.S. Department of State requires all civil service applicants to undergo a rigorous security clearance process that can take two to four months. They might even interview your friends, family members and neighbors.

5: International Aid Worker

While civil service employees represent America's interests in other countries, international aid workers export some of our abundant goodwill abroad. People who work for aid organizations like USAID and the Peace Corps work to improve the health, economic outlook and education of people living in developing nations.
International aid workers help countries that are struggling or recovering from economic crises, natural disasters, war, famine and despotism. Depending on their experience, aid workers might teach in Afghanistan, organize relief convoys to combat areas in Somalia, or introduce new heat-resistant crops to nations throughout Africa.
The desire to help others is a plus if you want to be an international aid worker -- but it's not the only prerequisite. You also need to have a background in a relevant area, like agriculture, engineering, private enterprise, education, health or crisis stabilization.
Becoming an international aid worker has its rewards -- and not just the gratification of helping people in other countries. Some international aid workers earn salaries well into the six figures.

4: Archaeologist

Imagine discovering the world's oldest known tool, or unearthing the skeleton of one of our very first ancestors. Every day, archaeologists are discovering the kinds of buried treasures that give them a glimpse into life thousands -- or even millions -- of years in the past.
The typical image of an archaeologist is a khaki-clad adventurer, up to his or her neck in dust on a dig. In movies and TV shows, archaeologists are typically found in countries like Egypt and other ancient civilizations.
Archaeologists do more than just dig, though. Once they make a great find, they have to identify and analyze their discoveries so they can be catalogued, restored and displayed by collectors or museums.
Some archaeologists don't dig at all. They conduct research for museums or governments, or teach archaeology at universities. Other archaeologists are in charge of protecting historic sites, excavating them for relics before construction crews can dig there and accidentally destroy an important piece of history.

3: English Teacher

English is one of the world's most spoken languages. It helps connect diverse cultures and bridge the gap between countries that want to connect for trade or diplomacy. Many people in non-English-speaking countries have the desire to learn the language, so there's always a need for people who can teach English-as-a-second-language (ESL) classes abroad.
As an ESL teacher, you'll get paid for the privilege of being immersed in a different culture. Many English teachers are provided with free accommodations while they're working abroad. You'll also get the satisfaction of knowing that you're teaching a valuable skill.
You can either teach children from kindergarten through high school, or work with adults. Most positions require you to have at least a bachelor's degree, but you'll earn more if you also have a master's. Depending on the program, you might need to be certified to teach as well.
English teaching positions are available through the U.S. Department of State, as well as with companies that place teachers internationally. Asia and Eastern Europe are two of the biggest markets for English teachers today. You can work in private international schools and universities, U.S. military bases or with an organization like the Peace Corps.

2: Field Service Technician

Many jobs that allow you to travel also require you to have a four-year college degree -- and often an advanced degree. If you don't have that kind of education but you still want to travel, consider working as a field service technician. These mobile repair techs travel wherever they are needed to perform equipment maintenance and repair.
Field service technicians are like equipment doctors making technical house calls. They might go to a construction site to fix a broken crane, a big-city high-rise to fix an elevator, or a remote train track to bring a disabled engine back to life.
Field service technicians can work for the government, equipment manufacturers, computer repair companies or construction and transportation businesses.
You don't need a four-year degree to be a field service technician, but a two-year associate's degree and some technical training are helpful. Many companies offer on-the-job training, so after a few years of working in this industry, you should be highly qualified.

1: Professional Yacht Crew

Everyone dreams about what they'd buy if they hit the lottery. For a lot of people, a superyacht tops that lottery wish list. Superyachts are like floating mansions, packed every possible amenity that can fit on a super luxurious oceangoing vessel.
Instead of just dreaming about floating away on a private yacht, why not actually do it? A seven-figure salary isn't a requirement. You don't even need to have sailing experience.
Thousands of superyachts are floating around the world, from Sydney to Singapore. And most of those yachts need crews to keep them afloat. (Did you actually think Jay-Z and Beyonce sailed their own $40 million chartered superyacht on the French Riviera last summer?)
Yachts need captains to drive them, deckhands to maintain the exterior, stewardesses to dust and polish the interior, engineers to keep the engines running and chefs to satisfy the dining pleasures of the yacht's well-heeled occupants. Speaking of the occupants, yacht crews have the chance to meet some of the biggest names in business, politics and entertainment while they're sailing around the world and getting paid for it.

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Tip Tuesday

Integrating with your new colleagues - how to get on with your new work colleagues

When you are new to a job, perhaps the most difficult aspect is not the work itself, but in fact getting along with and integrating well with your new work colleagues. There may not necessarily be any fault on your behalf, but in most cases you won't be welcomed with opening arms like a long-lost member of the family.

Being accepted and labeled as "another member of the team" will take time and won't happen overnight. You have to earn their respect and let them see that you are fair, friendly and a good worker. Even though you may not get on with everyone like a house on fire, it is important that you act professionally at all times and are able to maintain a good working relationship with those around you (even if you secretly can't stand one or two of them). Below we offer advice and tips on how to make a good first impression with your new work colleagues and how to integrate well and quickly become "one of the gang". Learn colleague's names Your new colleagues will definitely respond to you in a friendlier fashion if you learn their names as quickly as possible. Addressing someone by their first name rather than "er, excuse me" shows that you have made the effort and that you do want to get to know them. If you know that you easily forget people's names, draw up a plan of the office and record colleagues' names on it. Act professionally Be professional at all times. This is very important, especially if you are new to a company, as first impressions will always stick. It is vital that you get off on the right foot with everyone in your office and that they have nothing bad to say about you. If anyone has a criticism about you, do not react badly just because they do, and try to deal with it as quickly and quietly as possible. Act positive Although you may find settling in tough, try to be as positive as possible at all times. If you do need to complain about something, be tactful and have a quiet word with your boss. Do not go round moaning to all and sundry, as you will appear negative and weak, and especially do not criticize others and how they do things. Do not gossip Working in an office can sometimes feel like being part of a soap opera. You've got office politics, talking behind other's backs, affairs, gossip and occasionally the feeling that you want to murder someone (and that's in a good week). Often cliques form that always stick together and do not socialize with the other groups. It is good to pay attention to what is going on but do not get involved in office politics. You do not want to alienate others or be seen to be untrustworthy or false. Do not talk badly about other colleagues in order to gain favour with one group, even though it may feel as if you are integrating and making friends. Use your time well Your co-workers may be extremely busy during working hours but may use their lunchtime to relax and take a break. If they don't invite you, which is probably unlikely, ask if you can join them for lunch and use this time to get to know them better. Don't talk about yourself all the time, but make sure that you ask about them and their interests. Don't bombard them with questions though, just take your time in getting to know them. Out with the old, in with the new Although it is great to keep in touch with old work colleagues from your previous job, it is not a good idea to spend more time with them than with your new colleagues. Additionally, you must realize that every office has their own methods of doing things, so your new colleagues won't take kindly to comments such as "we used to do it like this in our old office" or any kind of criticism of the way that they work. You will have time much later on to put your ideas or suggestions forward. Conform When you first join a company, try not to do, wear or say anything that will draw negative attention to yourself. Stick to their dress code, only go out and smoke if everyone else does, don't take personal phone calls if this is frowned upon and generally try to conform to the office rules and culture as much as possible. This also applies to when you socialize outside of office hours. Work hard This is probably one of the most important aspects. You must be seen to be hardworking, efficient, competent and a valued member of the team. Co-workers won't take to you if you are a slacker, take advantage of your position or are incompetent. Try to offer to help others as much as possible and volunteer to do any extra projects or tasks. Many people do not like change and so when one member of staff leaves and another is brought in they will need time to adjust. The amount of time will vary from office to office, however if you follow the above advice, you should integrate and fit into your new surroundings in no time.

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Making it Big Monday

Tips For Young Professionals Starting A New Job

Starting your first “real” job can be nerve-racking. You’re probably excited to have landed a job – but also scared about meeting new colleagues, learning office etiquette, and making the transition from your college classrooms to your corporate cubicle (or whatever your new workspace may consist of). The days of rolling out of bed and running to class in whatever sweats you can find, taking naps between Spanish 101 and college algebra, and staying up until 2 a.m. doing yesterday’s assignments are over. That doesn’t fly in the professional world.
Starting a new job requires some preparation and lifestyle changes. “A lot of people look at getting the job offer as the finish line, but really it’s the start of another run,” says Rosemary Haefner, the vice president of human resources at Careerbuilder.com.

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Here are some tips for young professionals starting new careers:

Look professional. Start by recreating your wardrobe and sprucing up your appearance. Dress appropriately for the job you’ve landed. Remember that first impressions can be lasting. If you’re dressed to impress, you probably will. “One size doesn’t fit all,” Haefner says. “People assume ‘professional’ means a suit, but it depends on the company or industry.” Haefner encourages new employees to ask what people typically wear, before your first day. “You don’t want to show up in a suit if everyone wears jeans,” she says. But it’s better to be a bit overdressed the first few days.

Relax. If you exhibit apprehension, you may not be taken seriously. Be aware of your nervous habits and try to control them. If you ramble when you’re nervous, make it a point to limit your chatter.

Be confident. Don’t be narcissistic, but show your colleagues that you deserve to be there. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, and believe in your ability to succeed in your new position. One way to exhibit confidence: invite your colleagues to lunch. Haefner says this tactic shows that you aren’t the typical quiet new employee.

Be innovative. From day one, confirm that you bring something new to the table. If this applies to your new position, be sure to offer your boss or colleagues ideas for how to enhance the product or company. Most young professionals in a new job take the back seat the first few days, but Haefner suggests jumping right in. “Be there to contribute, or to volunteer for a project when nobody else raises their hand.”

Separate work and home. Once you’re settled in, avoid making personal calls, sending personal emails or taking long lunch breaks. Show that you are dedicated to your new job and that you want to be there. If you have nothing to do, offer to take on another task or help a colleague who looks overloaded. Not only will you impress the boss, but the days will fly by.

Communicate. Always be in touch and in tune. Speak up and ask questions, make suggestions and periodically check in with your boss. “Listening is just as important as speaking,” Haefner says. “Start a conversation with your boss to ask how you’re doing.”

Challenge yourself. Just because you did some research before your interview doesn’t mean you know enough to be successful there. Haefner says it can take awhile to get to know the company itself, but it is important to do research, look back at old projects, and find out what has worked for the company or your team in the past. Once you’ve had the opportunity to become acquainted with your new workplace, evaluated the work environment, observed your fellow employees, and surveyed the office protocol, work flow and discourse, you should set goals for yourself.

Getting through the first few days, weeks or months in a new job is tough, but remember to focus on what you want to get out of the experience.

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Making it Big Monday

Some Tips to Consider Before Accepting a Job Offer

You have made it through the job search and interview, now you are being offered a job; here are some things to consider before you accept the role. Your initial reaction might be to accept the job offer straight away in the excitement of the moment. However, take some time to consider the offer and understand what it entails.

• Get the job offer in writing. This will outline the obligations of the role, the salary on offer, your benefits and entitlements to annual leave. Ensure that all items comply with your expectations. Do ask questions about items you are unsure of or were not aware of from the initial job description.
• Make sure you understand the role you will be playing in the company. Ensure that you understand how you fit into the company. 
• Find out why the job is vacant, is it a new position, did someone leave and if so, why did they leave. Make sure that the job is not flawed.
• Consider the company and its people. You do not always know what kind of people you will be working with; think of the person/people you were interviewed by. Did you feel comfortable with them? Do they have the level of professionalism and type of personality that you would be comfortable working with?
• Make sure you find out what types of hours are expected from you. You may think that the hours are set, but may find out later that you are expected to work longer. Be aware whether you will be paid overtime or not, if it is included in your salary or if it is extra. You have to be happy with the job hours and the commitment it will take before you accept a role.
• Another aspect to consider is your vacation days as well as sick and personal days. Ensure you are aware of the policies. If you need different holidays due to your religion etc, ensure you will be able to take them without penalty.
• You must be able to see yourself working in the company. Consider how long your commute will be, the dress code and the atmosphere of the company.
• Research the company culture and their values; this will help indicate what type of workplace you will be entering.

Once you are offered a role, you are in control. The company wants you, so effectively the ball is in your court. If you are sure it is the job you want and are excited to start in the company, then go ahead and accept the offer. However, if you feel the job is not what you are looking for or does not suit you, then decline the offer in a gracious manner.

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Tip Tuesday

These top interview tips will help you cover everything you need to know to successfully ace a job interview. From checking out the company to sending an interview thank you note, these job interview tips cover all the basics needed for interviewing success.

Check Out the Company

How much do you know about the company that just contacted you to schedule an interview? It should be plenty, and all the information you need is available online. Here are tips on how to research a company, get the inside scoop on the company culture, and use connections who can help you get an interview advantage. More Info

Use Your Contacts

Who you know at the company you are interviewing with really does matter. Here's how to use your contacts and connections to get an insider advantage so you can ace the interview and impress the interviewer. More Info

Practice Interviewing

Taking the time to review typical interview questions you will probably be asked during a job interview will help give you a framework for your responses and will help calm your frazzled nerves, because you won't be scrambling for an answer while you're in the interview hot seat. Practice interviewing with a friend or family member ahead of time and it will be much easier when you're actually in a job interview. More Info

Improve Your Interview Technique

A job interview gives you a chance to shine. What you say and what you do is going to either move you to the next round of consideration for employment or knock you out of contention. More Info

Dress for Interview Success

The first impression you make on a potential employer can make a big difference. The first judgement an interviewer makes is going to be based on how you look and what you are wearing. That's why it's always important to dress professionally for a job interview. More Info

Handle a Group Interview

Interviewing with one person is tough enough, but it's even harder when you have to interview with a group (or panel) of interviewers. Here's how advice on how to ace a panel interview. More Info

Interview While Dining

Taking you to breakfast, lunch or dinner provides the interviewer with a chance to check out your communication and interpersonal skills, as well as your table manners, in a more casual environment than an office setting. Here's advice on how to handle an interview while dining. More Info

Prepare for a Phone Interview

While you're actively job searching, it's important to be prepared for a phone interview on a moment's notice. You never know when a recruiter or a networking contact might call and ask if you have a few minutes to talk. Review these tips for advice on how to pull off your phone interview without a hitch. More Info

Take the Time to Say Thank You

Taking the time to say thank you after a job interview not only is good interview etiquette, it reinforces your interest in the position. Use your thank you letter, as well, to address any issues and concerns that came up during the interview. More Info

More Job Interview Tips

More tips for phone interviews, second interviews, lunch and dinner interviews, behavioral interviews, interviewing in public, and additional advice for interview success. More Info

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Nurse Attire Tips:

1) Should be clean, neat and in a good state of repair; reflecting high professional standards.
2) Skirt must be no shorter than the middle of the knee and or longer than 4" below the knee
3) White Hosiery must be worn, and white socks are acceptable for pant style uniforms
4) All jewelry is highly discouraged.
5) Clean, white shoes
6) Scrub Pants, with a white shirt or blouse

A.N.

Chef Attire Tips:

1) Where a double button Chef coat
2) Apron, Have a towel handy so you do not wipe your hands on your apron.
3) Black, non slip shoes
4) Hair Net & Hat
5) Comfortable checker pants are traditional, but black pants are also accepted.
6) Stay clean and professional. Clip on ties are great for presentation.

A.N

An Architects Dress Code

Top 3 Basic Tips

1) Black and Professional

2) Classy and not afraid to add a little boldness

3) Sophistication