Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Tip Tuesday

Powerful networking tips: top strategies for career success

Powerful networking tips can give you an edge in any job market. Right now, it’s a job seekers’ market and many employers are feeling the crunch of a skills shortage. Still, powerful networking tips can be essential to building a job search toolkit. Studies show that only five to twenty percent of jobs are formally advertised, and job seekers have to look for more innovative ways of conducting a work search. Networking can be a powerful tool when conducted properly, and can put you in contact with people that will help to take your career where you want it to go.

Put simply, a network is the web of people that you know. Each person in that network knows others that can become a part of your network if you get in contact with them. So how can you start activating and building on your network? There are a variety of ways that you can create and maintain a network. There are no hard and fast rules. However, here are some steps to help you build your network and make the most of it.

Top 10 powerful networking tips

1. Make sure you know who you are, what you want, and what you have
This means knowing what direction you are headed in and being able to communicate to others what it is that you have to offer.

2. Prepare a resume and a networking business card
Make sure you have your resume or networking business card with you at all times when you are job searching – you never know who you will meet! It’s a tool to assist your network in remembering you.

3. Create a 20-second verbal business card
Use this when introducing yourself to people – it is a clear, concise way of communicating who you are, what your goals are, and what you have to offer.

4. Conduct information interviews
Information interviews are a great way to get information for your work search, such as what skills are needed for a particular position, what duties are required of a particular job, what the demand is like within an industry and whether there is anyone else who might be able to talk with you about your area of interest. Conduct information interviews with people who are in the industry or position you are interested in.

5. Join professional associations or volunteer
Membership in a professional association provides you with an ideal networking opportunity. Some associations are geared to certain industries, so this is a great way to make contacts in your area of interest. There are also networking associations that can connect you with others who will support you in your career development. Volunteering is another great way to make contacts – you can volunteer to sit on a committee, organize events, provide services, etc. The important thing is to volunteer for something that interests and inspires you – this will lead you to other like-minded people (who are great to have in your network!).

6. Keep your network organized
It’s important to recognize that each person in your network is valuable, even if the value isn’t immediately apparent. Make sure to keep your network organized by using a notebook or database with contact information, company name, title and any other information you’ve learned about them. A great tip is to jot notes on the back of someone’s business card after you first meet them to remind you of what you discussed and what you learned about them.

7. Make real connections with people – be genuine. Smile!
Networking is about quality, not quantity – it should be about connecting with people, not just collecting their business cards. Besides, the goal of networking is not to land you a job, but to build a web of people that you have a meaningful relationship with – this will last much longer and be more beneficial. Remember, it’s not just who you know, it’s who knows you.

8. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
People are often complimented that you think they can assist you. Contacts can give you a lot of useful information, such as a referral to a new contact, a tip about a job, information about the industry you’re interested in, advice on your resume, or information about the skills/experience you need for certain positions.

9. Offer to help – it comes full circle
Remember, networking isn’t just about an end goal (ie. getting a job). It’s a give-and-take situation, and sometimes the most beneficial thing you can do is offer to help someone in your network. Helping someone else often helps to build a stronger relationship, and there is a great likelihood that they’ll want to do you a favour in the future (like giving you the inside scoop on a job they know you’d be perfect for!).

10. Keep in touch with your network
Again, it’s all about making your network meaningful. Keeping in touch doesn’t mean a lengthy email every week – in fact, this could turn some people off. It means, though, that you should be mindful of this relationship. So next time you read an article that someone you know might be interested in, send them an email. Or get involved with some of the social networking sites, such as LinkedIn or Facebook. Who knows who you’ll meet or what you’ll get in return?

Although it can be daunting, the best way to start building your network is to just get out there and do it! Remember the adage that there are only six degrees of separation between you and anyone else? Who is it you want to meet? They may not be far from reach!
To view the original article CLICK HERE

Monday, July 9, 2012

Making It Big Monday

Networking Is Still The Best Way To Find A Job, Survey Says

Despite the explosion of online job search tools, from job boards to networking sites like LinkedIn, the conventional wisdom among career coaches holds that most people still find jobs through networking. But whenever I’ve asked coaches for evidence of this, they demure, failing to remember where they read that statistic.

So it’s interesting to get some concrete numbers, from a new survey from Right Management, an arm of Milwaukee-based staffing giant Manpower Group, that offers outplacement services and career coaching. The survey analyzes data from 59,133 clients Right Management advised over the last three years. In 2010, 41% said they landed a job through networking. Here is a chart showing the survey results:

Source of New Job

	2010	2009	2008
Networking	41%	45%	41%
Internet Job Board	25%	19%	19%
Agency/Search firm	11%	9%	11%
Direct Approach	8%	8%	8%
Online Network (2010)	4%	na	na
Advertisement	2%	7%	7%
Other	10%	12%	14%

Only 8% said they found a new position through a direct approach, a technique I’ve recommended here. However, it’s possible, and increasingly easy, to enhance direct contact with networking, especially if you combine online tools with an old-school personal approach. Through LinkedIn and Facebook, locate friends and contacts who are connected to the company where you want to work. Reach out to those contacts through personalized emails and phone calls. Ask if you can mention them in an email or call to your target. If your connection is willing to put in a word for you with the target, all the better.

Carly McVey, Right Management’ Vice President of Career Management, comments on the rapidly blurring lines between traditional and online networking. Says McVey in the release from Right Management: “Online social networking may not always be separate from traditional networking since one so often leads to the other. A job seeker uses the Inernet to track down former associates or acquaintances and then reaches out to them in person.”

To view original article CLICK HERE

Friday, July 6, 2012

Feature Friday

Position Type: Immediate Full-time

Job Title: Website Developer
Job Location: CFB Trenton
Employment Category: IT - Web Development

Job Description:

Under the direction of the PSP Manager, the Website Developer implements and maintains Web Content Management Systems (WCMS) including Internet and Intranet. He/she configures, maintains and monitors WCMSs such as Savvy and Book King. The Website Developer liaises with clients, staff, IT, external vendors and contactors to ensure all problems or inquiries are resolved. She/He participates in the development of information system policies and makes recommendations regarding practices to improve overall information system services. The Website Developer also researches and evaluates a variety of interactive WCMS-related products and makes recommendations for purchase.

Job Requirements:

Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or a related field AND some years experience in WCMS
OR
- College diploma or certificate in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field, AND several years of experience in WCMS
Language requirement: Bilingual Mandatory – Level 222/222. If no qualified candidates meet the profile, the Bilingual Non-Mandatory option will apply and the successful candidate 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 WCMSs, such as Savvy
- Of scheduling and registration software
- Of modern forums, such as Fuse Talk
- Of program languages, such as CFM, XML, XHTML, XSL, Perl, HTML, DHTML, JavaScript, CSS
- Of web development
- Of web and graphic design
- Of desktop/server operating systems

Experience Requirements
- In configuring, implementing, and maintaining WCMS in an enterprise environment
- In configuring, implementing, and maintaining scheduling and registration software
- In web Intranet/Internet design and development
- In project management
- In applying policies, procedures, and regulations
- In using software for word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, databases, e-mail, and Internet browsing

Salary: $ 48,550 - $ 57,110 per annum

Application Procedure: Employer Website

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

If by Fax, send to: 613-965-2196

Additional Application Information:

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 www.cfpsa.com. Applications must be received before
1600 hrs 19 July 2012.
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: July 19, 2012 by 4:00pm

To view this position or want to browse for other positions CLICK HERE

Thursday, July 5, 2012

Top Job Thursday

Top 10 In-Demand Social Media Jobs & Services

1. Social Strategist

Social strategists are generally social media specialists who are in charge of creating the “big picture” behind an organization’s overall social media communications. They decide which social media outlets will be pursued, how much money can be dedicated to social marketing campaigns and design the framework from which an organization will pursue social media from an internal perspective.

2. Community Manager

Community managers are social media specialists that focus their time and attention on the maintenance of the friends and fans that an organization has accumulated. This could include major tasks like developing new polls, comments, surveys and discussions or relatively minor considerations like moderating comments and approving new posts. The greater the membership or subscriber base is, the more time and effort this will take.

3. Social Media Analytics

One of the most difficult aspects of monetizing social media stems from the fact that it can be difficult to measure the impact and results that originate from a specific campaign. Recently, there have been a number of innovative tools and programs that have been introduced into the social media sphere that empower the organization at the helm to track every user, evaluate which poll questions get the best results and ultimately how many of the social media network members are making the conversion to hot prospects or customers.

4. Social Media Design Specialist

Things look different on social media website than they do on a personally branded website. Because of this, special design skills and insights are necessary to insure that a business is able to keep their brand messaging and imaging cohesive. Add to this the fact that the design constraints vary between Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Google+ and you can easily translate building social media integrated experiences into a full-time job.

5. Social Media Developer

Social media developers are chiefly in control of deciding which features and add-ons are incorporated into the overall marketing strategy. Additionally, it is the social media developers job to insure that from a user-experience point of view, all sites link and integrate well together for a seamless transition from your blog to your website to your Twitter feed and Facebook fan page. Developers will often work in conjunction with a design specialist team, so having both of these skills can give you distinct edge in the marketplace.

6. Content Programmer

Businesses that are serious about maximizing the value of social media don’t approach content creation haphazardly. Just like many newspapers and magazines, savvy social media players are creating editorial calendars that allow them to build up the content that will be distributed both internally and externally. Writers with a strong background in project management and social media can translate these skills into a lucrative career.

7. Social Influencer Relations

All fans and followers are NOT created equal. As a matter of fact, there will be certain members in every following who qualify as “social influencers”. These individuals generally have a massive following in the social media sphere or are well-known and established bloggers. Businesses that want to use these highly influential voices to their greatest advantage take time to court them and curry favor. Social media experts with any type of public relations backgrounds can turn this into a highly specialized service and build an impressive personal and professional network along the way.

8. Social Reputation Management

Unless a business’s social media profiles are set up so that comments and interactions are submitted for approval before posting, disgruntled or mischievous posters can use their own walls and profiles against them. Just think about what can be said about businesses or organizations on other people’s profiles, blogs or websites. If you are a Boolean buff or have incredible Internet research skills and know the ins and outs of digging up the dirt on an organization or their company members, reputation management could spell success for your financial future.

9. Fan Finder

If you possess stellar list building techniques and strategies it won’t be hard to market yourself as a Fan Finder. The typical small business owner hardly has the time to invite friends and deliberately grow their followers. Some of them barely have time to sit down and eat lunch! While there are few jobs on the market as a Friend Finder, it is a potentially lucrative service you can offer as a self-employed pro.

10. Social Bookmarking Specialist
This is another service versus “job”. Social bookmarking is incredibly popular. One of the most popular social bookmarking hubs out there is StumbleUpon. However, there are hundreds of others available. A quick visit to the following website http://bluesearchmarketing.com/social-bookmarking-sites-list/ will show that there are dozens upon dozens of them out there. Even if you just picked the top ten or fifteen, you could easily offer this service as a freebie to draw in new business into one of the other social media services on your menu.

To view original article CLICK HERE

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

Witty Wednesday

Top 10 Funniest Viral Twitter #Hashtags

Twitter hashtags are a great way to organize tweets for common subjects or events, but people also use them as a way to connect to others over a good laugh. Once the twitterverse starts putting in their two cents, you get crowd-sourced, viral comedy. We’ve gathered what we think are the top ten funniest viral hashtags that we’re sure will have you giggling at your desk.

#MomQuotes
This hashtag was created by Jimmy Fallon for his “Late Night Hashtag” @LateNightJimmy bit on his show. Everything a typical mom would say categorized into one great hashtag.

Example By @smashly:
‘Go early to get it. These are really, really popular hams.’ #momquotes

#LessAmbitiousMovies
Think of a movie- then change its title to something less ambitious. It’s a fun little game to play with a group of friends as well.

Example By @LeenaRao:
The Goddaughter #lessambitiousmovies

#TwoThingsThatDontMix
It’s simple- what two things just don’t work well together?

Example By @_KZA:
“rapper names and Autocorrect #twothingsthatdontmix”

#ThreeWordsToLiveBy
Words of wisdom in three little words.

Example By @edlynskey:
#threewordstoliveby Brew More Coffee

#TigerBlood
Charlie Sheen started this trend and since then it’s just blown up on Twitter. We’re not 100% sure what it means, but it has something to do with being awesome.

Example By @jakmartin881h:
Freezing at the bus stop. Good thing I got #tigerblood

#DisneyPickUpLines
Would anyone ever actually use these lines? Maybe if you were trying to hook up with someone at Disneyworld. Many of them were much dirtier than this example, I think you can imagine.

Example By @itsphillybaby:
Baby I can take you to infinity and beyond!! #disneypickuplines

#GenericTweet
Simply pokes fun at those who tweet about nothing special (we’ve all done a boring generic tweet without realizing it.)

Example By @TylerMcDonald:
Pretty excited that the weekend is here. #generictweet

#UnlikelySequel
Movies that would have probably flopped if given these titles.

Example By @frankfx:
#unlikelysequels When Harry Killed Sally

#SoEmbarrassing
People sharing their embarrassing stories in less then 140 characters are always fun.

Example By @abaker20:
at a family christmas party saying goodbye kissing all my aunts then acciedntly kissing my uncle on the lips #soembarrassing

#WorstJobIEverHad
Haven’t we all had that one job that makes you stop and wonder where your life is going? Another great hashtag created by Jimmy Fallon @LateNightJimmy.

Example By @april_430:
My bosses bought a crate of 8×14 paper instead of 8×11. Instead of exchanging it, they made me cut 3 inches off each one!! #worstjobieverhad

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Tip Tuesday

Social Networking at Work - Some Dos and Don'ts

How to Use Social Media Without Getting Yourself or Your Company in Trouble

Some companies encourage their employees to make use of social networking tools like blogs, Facebook, and Twitter. They realize that if done within some intelligent guidelines, it can help build brand recognition, improve the flow of information between companies and their consumers, and hopefully, increase customer loyalty.
Others discourage or outright forbid their employees from engaging in online socializing. They realize that such activities, when not conducted with some care, can be a huge leak of sensitive and confidential information. In fact, a recent survey by ProofPoint has shown that 7% of companies have terminated employees for social networking site policy violations, 11% for blog posting violations, and 52% are "highly concerned" about the risk of information leakage through services like Twitter.
Let's face it, social networking is a fun way to stay in touch with friends and family,to share ideas with like-minded individuals, and to share information with clients and business contacts. It can also be a time-waster and a drain on productivity. None of this is news to company managers, so, the first rule is to

Know Your Company's Policy Regarding Social Networking at Work
Check your online employee portal if you have one, or review your printed employee handbook. If neither of these are available, ask your manager to point you in the right direction. No matter what you might read here or anywhere else, it is imperative to comply with your company policy, or you risk disciplinary action, termination, even a law suit. That's right, employees who knowingly or through negligence reveal confidential information can be held liable for subsequent financial losses suffered by the company.
Keep in mind that there is a difference between social networking about work and social networking at work. The policy may allow you to participate, but not during your normal working hours. Unless of course, corporate communications is part of your job description.
With that first rule firmly ingrained, here are a few other tips to keep in mind. Some or all of them mirror many company policies.

Do

Be sure of all information you post. If you are stating something as fact, make sure it is a fact, not opinion or wishful thinking. Citing references or sources is a big plus.
Clearly state that your opinions and viewpoints are yours, and do not represent the stance of your employer.
Engage in intelligent dialog with others. Find out who else is blogging about the topics that interest you. Comment on their posts and link to their blogs. You'll help build your network of resources and your online credibility.
Consider potential conflict of interest repercussions. If you "friend-request" a business contact, will that put either of you in an awkward or compromising position?
Watch your spelling and grammar. "Leet-speak" may be cool with your friends, but avoid it if you want to build a professional online persona.
Review what you're saying before clicking Submit. It is not only a reflection on you, but on your company as well, even if you do publish a disclaimer.
Remember that what you post may well last forever. It is virtually impossible to remove something once it has been posted on the Internet.

Don't

Give away company secrets. A good rule of thumb is, if it isn't published in a press release or on an official company website, then don't reveal it. Someone else leaking confidential information on their site doesn't give you permission to discuss what you know about it.
Engage in name-calling, or post inflammatory remarks. Stating informed, conflicting opinions is fine, posting emotional diatribes is not.
Share personal information about your co-workers. Identity theft and social engineering are prevalent enough, don't contribute to the problems

Here's one more 'do' for you - have fun with it. Even though these rules of thumb may seem encumbering or limiting, there is still plenty of latitude to let your personality and sense of humor pervade your social media contributions. That, a little common sense, and adherence to company policy is all it takes to build your on-line presence and strengthen your ties to your industry.

To view original article CLICK HERE

Friday, June 29, 2012

Fun Fact Friday

150 Funniest Resume Mistakes, Bloopers and Blunders Ever

People write the strangest things on their resumes, sometimes downright hysterical. Why should only recruiting managers get to laugh at these? The Top 10 are at the bottom. Enjoy!

“Career break in 1999 to renovate my horse”
“1990 – 1997: Stewardess – Royal Air Force”
Hobbies: “enjoy cooking Chinese and Italians”
“Service for old man to check they are still alive or not.”
Cleaning skills: “bleaching, pot washing, window cleaning, mopping, e.t.c”
“Job involved…counselling clientele on accidental insurance policies available”
“2001 summer Voluntary work for taking care of the elderly and vegetable people”
“I’m intrested to here more about that. I’m working today in a furniture factory as a drawer”
“I am about to enrol on a Business and Finance Degree with the Open University. I feel that this qualification will prove detrimental to me for future success.”
“Time is very valuable and it should be always used to achieve optimum results and I believe it should not be played around with”
“I belive that weakness is the first level of strength, given the right attitude and driving force. My school advised me to fix my punctuality…”
Candidate included a letter from his mother.
Candidate stated the ability to persuade people sexually using her words.
Candidate wrote résumé as a play – Act 1, Act 2, etc.
Candidate included naked picture of himself.
“Skills: Strong Work Ethic, Attention to Detail, Team Player, Self Motivated, Attention to Detail”
Woman who sent her résumé and cover letter without deleting someone else’s editing, including such comments as “I don’t think you want to say this about yourself here”
“an applicant ghosted a headshot as the background to her resume”
Other Interests: “Playing with my two dogs (They actually belong to my wife but I love the dogs more than my wife)”.
“One applicant used colored paper and drew glitter designs around the border”
Hobbies: “getting drunk everynight down by the water, playing my guitar and smoking pot”
Why Interested in Position: “to keep my parole officer from putting back me in jail”
A woman had attached a picture of herself in a mini mouse costume
Hobbies: “Drugs and girls”.
Under “job related skills” – for a web designer – “can function without additional oxygen at 24,000 feet”.
My sister-in-law misspelled the word “proofreading” in her skill set.
The objective on one recent resume I received stated that the applicant wished to pursue a challenging account executive position with our rival firm.
Objective: “career on the Information Supper Highway”
Experience: “Stalking, shipping & receiving”
“I am great with the pubic.”
A candidate listed her e-mail address as pornstardelight@*****.com
The applicant listed her name as Alice in the resume but wrote Alyce on the onsite application.
One candidate’s electronic resume included links to her homepage, where the pictures were of her in the nude.
“…sent out my resume on the back side of a draft of a cover letter to another firm…”
“My duties included cleaning the restrooms and seating the customers.”
One applicant for a nursing position noted that she didn’t like dealing with blood or needles.
Achievements: “Nominated for prom queen”
I once received a resume with a head and shoulders picture in the top left of the first page. The picture was of a lion’s head, wearing a coat, shirt, and tie.
a resume… was printed on the back of the person’s current employer’s letterhead.
One resume that came across my desk stated how the individual had won a contest for building toothpick bridges in middle school.
A resume… had several grease stains and a smudge of chocolate on it
Hobbies: “Having a good time”
Candidate explained a gap in employment by saying it was because he was getting over the death of his cat for three months.
Candidate’s hobbies included sitting on the levee at night watching alligators.
Candidate explained an arrest by stating, “We stole a pig, but it was a really small pig.”
Candidate included family medical history.
“nine-page cover letter accompanied by a four-page résumé”
“One applicant tried to make an impression by using four different fonts, three ink colors and a variety of highlighting options on her résumé”
“Revolved customer problems and inquiries.”
“Consistently tanked as top sales producer for new accounts.”
“Planned new corporate facility at $3 million over budget.”
“Seeking a party-time position with potential for advancement.”
“I often use a laptap.”
“Able to say the ABCs backward in under five seconds.”
“I am a wedge with a sponge taped to it. My purpose is to wedge myself into someone’s door to absorb as much as possible.”
“Finished eighth in my class of ten.”
“Received a plague for Salesperson of the Year.”
“Reason for leaving last job: maturity leave.”
“Failed bar exam with relatively high grades.”
“Am a perfectionist and rarely if if ever forget details.”
“It’s best for employers that I not work with people.”
“Let’s meet, so you can ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ over my experience.”
“I have an excellent track record, although I am not a horse.”
“You will want me to be Head Honcho in no time.”
“I have become completely paranoid, trusting completely no one and absolutely nothing.”
“Personal interests: donating blood. Fourteen gallons so far.”
“Marital status: often. Children: various.”
“I am loyal to my employer at all costs..Please feel free to respond to my resume on my office voice mail.”
“Instrumental in ruining entire operation for a Midwest chain store.”
Job Duties: “Answer phones, file papers, respond to customer e-mails, take odors.”
Interests: “Gossiping.”
Favorite Activities: “Playing trivia games. I am a repository of worthless knowledge.”
Skills: “I can type without looking at thekeyboard.”
Employer: ” Myself; received pay raise for high sales.”
Objective: “I want to play a major part in watching a company advance.”
Experience: “Chapter president, 1887-1992.”
Experience: “Demonstrated ability in multi-tasting.”
Experience: “I’m a hard worker, etc.”
Languages: “Speak English and Spinach.”
Reason for leaving: “I thought the world was coming to an end.”
Additional skills: “I am a Notary Republic.”
Objective: “So one of the main things for me is, as the movie ‘Jerry McGuire’ puts it, ‘Show me the money!’”
Skills: “I have integrity so I will not steal office supplies and take them home.”
Objective: “To hopefully associate with a millionaire one day.”
Skills: “I have technical skills that will take your breath away.”
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.”
Qualifications: “Twin sister has accounting degree.”
Experience: “Have not yet been abducted by aliens.”
Skills: “Written communication = 3 years; verbal communication = 5 years.”
Objective: “I would like to work for a company that is very lax when it comes to tardiness.”
Education: “I possess a moderate educatin but willing to learn more.”
Education: “Have repeated courses repeatedly.”
Salary requirements: “The higher the better.”
Salary desired: “Starting over due to recent bankruptcies. Need large bonus when starting job.”
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.”
References: “Bill, Tom, Eric. But I don’t know their phone numbers.”
Work experience: “Two years as a blackjack and baccarat dealer. Strong emphasis on customer relations – a constant challenge considering how much money people lose and how angry they can get.”
Personal: “I limit important relationships to people who want to do what I want them to do.”
Objective: “Student today. Vice president tomarrow.”
Accomplishments: “Brought in a balloon artist to entertain the team.”
Application: Why should an employer hire you? “I bring doughnuts on Friday.”
Achievements: “First runner-up for Miss Fort Worth, 1982.”
Reason for leaving: “Pushed aside so the vice president’s girlfriend could steal my job.”
Special skills: “I’ve got a Ph.D. in human feelings.”
Reason for leaving last job: “Bounty hunting was outlawed in my state.”
Experience: “Any interruption in employment is due to being unemployed.”
Objective: “To become Overlord of the Galaxy!”
Objective: “What I’m looking for in a job: #1) Money #2) Money #3) Money.”
Hobbies: “Mushroom hunting.”
Experience: “Child care provider: Organized activities; prepared lunches and snakes.”
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.”
Awards: “National record for eating 45 eggs in two minutes.”
Heading on stationery: “I’d Break Mom’s Heart to Work For You!”
“I am a ‘neat nut’ with a reputation for being hardnosed. I have no patience for sloppywork, carelessmistakes and theft of companytime.”
Experience: “Provide Custer Service.”
Experience: “I was brought in as a turnaround consultant to help turn the company around.”
Strengths: “Ability to meet deadlines while maintaining composer.”
Work experience: “Responsibilities included checking customers out.”
Work experience: “Maintained files and reports, did data processing, cashed employees’ paychecks.”
Educational background: “Highschool was a incredible experience.”
Resume: “A great management team that has patents with its workers.”
Cover letter: “Experienced in all faucets of accounting.”
Objective: “I am anxious to use my exiting skills.”
Personal: “I am loyal and know when to keep my big mouth shut.”
Job duties: “Filing, billing, printing and coping.”
Application: “Q: In what local areas do you prefer to work? A: Smoking.”
Reason for leaving: “Terminated after saying, ‘It would be a blessing to be fired.’”
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.”
Resume: “I have a lifetime’s worth of technical expertise (I wasn’t born – my mother simply chose ‘eject child’ from the special menu.”
Resume: “Spent several years in the United States Navel Reserve.”
Qualifications: “I have extensive experience with foreign accents.”
“I am fully aware of the king of attention this position requires.”
References: “Please do not contact my immediate supervisor at the company. My colleagues will give me a better reference.”
“Worked in a consulting office where I carried out my own accountant.”
Accomplishments: “My contributions on product launches were based on dreams that I had.”
Career: “I have worked with restraints for the past two years.”
Experience: “My father is a computer programmer, so I have 15 years of computer experience.”
Education: “I have a bachelorette degree in computers.”

JobMob Top 10

Application: How large was the department you worked in with your last company? “A: 3 stories.”
A resume listed a skill as “being bi-lingual in three languages”
Background: “28 dog years of experience in sales (four human).”
In the section that read “Emergency Contact Number” she wrote “911.”
Candidate drew a picture of a car on the outside of the envelope and said it was the hiring manager’s gift.
Languages: “Fluent in English. Also I have been heard muttering Gibberish in my sleep.”
“Directed $25 million anal shipping and receiving operations.”
On one of our applications, a girl wrote ” I’m 16, I’m pregnant and I can do anything.” At the same time she turned in her application, her boyfriend handed in his. On his: “Felony for breaking and entering.”
“One candidate included clipart on their resume of two cartoons shaking hands.”
Application: “On the line that asked what “sex” he was, he wrote “occassionally”.”

To view original article CLICK HERE (yes there are only 149)

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Top Job Thursday

The list: Canada's top 100 employers for 2012

Canada's top 100 employers for 2012 is the product of extensive evaluation, including a detailed review of the employer’s operations and human resource practices. Employers are compared with other organizations in their field.

Mediacorp’s editors reviewed the recruitment histories of more than 75,000 employers across the country before inviting 12,500 of these to apply. It was a record year for submissions. More than 2,700 employers started the application process, and the number of completed applications increased by 15 per cent, making this year the most competitive yet.

A distinguished academic advisory board, drawn from universities across Canada, oversees the selection criteria. Each panel member has either written or edited a major human resources textbook in Canada.

The criteria that the editors of Mediacorp use for judging the best workplaces has remained the same since the project began in 1999. Competition focuses on eight key areas: Physical workplace; work and social atmosphere; health, financial and family benefits; vacation and time off; communications, focused on how employers handle employee feedback; performance management; training and skills development; and community involvement.

Canada's Top 100 Employers for 2012
(click on the company to see the reason why they were selected)

To view original article CLICK HERE

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Weekly Feature Wednesday

Job Title: Director of Human Resources

Position Type: Immediate Full-time
Job Location: Toronto
Employment Category: Human Resources

Job Description:

This is an exciting career opportunity for the right individual who understands the importance of our company culture and is keen to learn about the television
broadcasting industry!
Established in 2000, Channel Zero Inc. is an independent Canadian broadcaster that owns two specialty channels, Movieola—The Short Film Channel and Silver Screen Classics, and two over-the-air channels, CHCH in Hamilton and Metro14 in Montreal. In 2006 Channel Zero started Ouat Media – a Toronto-based company that specializes in the worldwide distribution of award-winning short and feature films. In 2011, Channel Zero entered the American television landscape with the launch of Fight Now! TV, the first 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week combat sports channel to air in the U.S.
Reporting directly to the VP Finance and company President, you will lead and oversee the HR functions for the Channel Zero group of companies that today includes our Toronto and Hamilton locations. Operating both strategically and hands-on, you will manage the overall provision of Human Resources services, policies and programs for the company that will provide a high-performing, successful workforce.
The right candidate for this role will have a strong belief in culture and teamwork; a passion for continuous learning; a professional attitude; savvy business sense;
flexibility and ability to adapt to new situations; a sense of humor, and the readiness to take their career to the next level as they become a contributing member of our senior management team.

Key Areas of Responsibility:
• Management of HR and payroll staff
• Human Resources planning, recruiting and staffing
• Compensation, payroll and benefits administration
• Employee performance management, development and training
• Policy development and documentation
• Statutory compliance and records management
• Employment equity and diversity programs
• Employee and union relations
• Employee safety, welfare, wellness and health
• Employee communications

Job Requirements:

• Minimum of a Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Human Resources, Business, Organization Development and a CHRP designation
• Ten plus years of progressive leadership experience in Human Resources positions that have provided you with a solid foundation of knowledge and experience, in all areas of HR management
• Hands on experience with labour relations
• Excellent interpersonal and coaching skills
• A concise, professional and always proactive communication style
• Professional business skill set that includes project planning and execution
• Excellent computer skills in a Microsoft Windows environment. Must include Excel and skills in database management and record keeping.
• Experience with ADP and an HRIS an asset
• Access to a reliable vehicle and the ability to travel between locations as required

Application Procedure: nadon@mediaintelligence.ca

Application Material Required: Cover letter and Résumé

Additional Application Information:

Compensation: This is a full-time role with benefits. Salary is commensurate with experience.
Reply in confidence: If this position matches your skills, experience and goals, please send your CV and covering letter/email by 5 PM (EST) Tuesday, July 3rd, 2012, to nadon@mediaintelligence.ca quoting “Director of Human Resources” in the subject header.
We thank all candidates for their submissions but only those under consideration will be contacted. We do recommend getting expressions of interest in
early, as opposed to waiting for the deadline!
mediaINTELLIGENCE.ca - Canada’s leader in integrated career management & recruitment for media professionals.

Application Deadline: July 3, 2012 by 5:00pm

To view more job postings CLICK HERE

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Tip Tuesday

12 Steps To A Promotion

Climbing the corporate ladder requires hard work, good timing and a little bit of luck. It would be great if your academic credentials, job skills and performance reviews would magically open the doors to the executive suite, but life's not like that. You need to create and execute your own plan.

Here are some tips to help you land that promotion.
1- Master your current job
Even if you're not interested in making your present position your life's work, give it your very best. Keep track of your accomplishments. Find ways to increase productivity. Offer well-researched suggestions that will reduce costs. Accept constructive criticism. Always be prepared to deal with any situation without becoming defensive, blaming others or blowing your professional image.
2- Volunteer to take on (valuable) extra tasks
Plan your strategy. Sometimes it's better to take on a series of smaller tasks instead of a flashy major project in addition to your regular workload. While others are vying for the more visible responsibilities, you'll be proving your worth and value by efficiently taking care of the less coveted ones.
3- Make your boss look good
Even if you do not particularly like your current manager, make it your goal to ensure the department is successful. When your boss gets promoted, someone has to take his place. Why shouldn't it be you? When you're seen as knowledgeable, skilled and interested, you'll be considered promotable. Just don't be a brownnoser or tie yourself too closely to your boss. If he's fired for incompetence, you don't want to be guilty by association.
4- Stay in close contact with the HR department
Making friends with people in personnel will help you find out quickly about upcoming openings. Your human resources department can also advise you of available training opportunities. Let it be known that you have long-term goals with the company. When decisions are being made for career development opportunities, you want to be on the HR short list.
5- Maintain positive relationships with the staff
You're not going to like everyone you work with, but no one else needs to know it. Be polite, considerate and courteous at all times. Be a team player and share accolades with others. By acknowledging the efforts of other employees, you'll earn their trust and respect. And watch your reputation: Keep your personal relationships private and don't do or say anything you might regret in the office, on business trips or at company functions.
6- Let your leadership skills shined
Every rung on the corporate ladder requires a strong image as a natural leader. Offer encouragement to others in the office, recognize special achievements and, on occasion, organize office outings. Getting the staff together for a beer after work is a great team-building tool.
7- Groom a successor
If you're the only one who can do your job, guess what? You'll be doing it forever. Share your knowledge and skills. When you're going on vacation, ask other people to handle aspects of your job and teach them how to do them well.
8- Get a mentor
Find someone you trust, preferably a senior manager or director with a lot of experience and a large network. Ask for advice. Discuss your career goals with him and plan your strategy. Sometimes you need to take a lateral transfer to gain a different type of skill in order to return to your preferred area in a higher position of authority.
9- Take additional training
No matter what your educational background is, there's always more you could learn. Look into night courses, seminars and workshops, and ask your mentor and your boss if they would add value to the company. Read business publications and books. Sign up for online informational newsletters. Stay up-to-date on your industry as a whole, not just your job.
10- Look presentable at all times
It's difficult to see vice president-potential in someone who constantly dressesdown. If khakis and polo shirts are the standard in your office, make sure yours are clean, well-pressed and of good quality. Have a sports jacket handy in case you're called to an important meeting in the executive offices. Keep your hair stylish and your shoes polished.
11- Perfect your elevator pitch
You never know when opportunity will knock. If you meet the CEO, introduce yourself in a way that will leave him wanting to learn more about you. When networking or meeting clients, you want them to remember you for the right reasons. Never brag and don't be pushy. Ambition is an admirable trait unless you're perceived as being an egotistical showoff.
12- Watch your timing
It's usually better not to ask for a promotion. Avoid bringing this up when your boss is obviously stressed and has a strict deadline to meet. Choose the time wisely and let it be known that you feel ready to take on additional responsibilities. Try not to show you are in a rush for a raise and a new title. Be patient.

Promotions Don't Just Happen
You cannot expect to be offered a promotion based solely on merit, potential or seniority, and there will be times when someone seemingly less qualified is offered a position you feel you deserve. Don't quit in a childish huff or you'll prove that you weren't the right person for the job. Hang in there and continue following these tips. An even better position may become available or the incumbent will fail miserably and you'll be promoted to replace him.

Remain focused on your long-term career goals. Maintain your integrity, your confidence and your efforts, and you'll get yourself promoted.

To view original article CLICK HERE

Monday, June 25, 2012

Making It Big Monday

10 Things You Should Include in Your Career Advancement Goals This Year

There has never been a more critical time to take an active role in your planning career advancement than now. With hundreds of thousands of top salary jobs left unfilled due to lack of qualified candidates having both the hard and soft skills to fill them, yet millions of people out of work, it is clear that there was a lack of career planning on many fronts. And with the rapid change in the way work is done there is little doubt that the future has more redundancies in store. Keep your career ahead of the curve and develop and implement an intentional career advancement plan. Here is a quick list of some of the things you should consider when developing your career advancement plan this month.

Develop your communication skills
Learn how to improve your skills of persuasion with by improving your story telling skills. Attend a story telling class or acting class. Consider developing your improvisation skills through similar classes. Not only will these skills help you to think and speak effectively on your feet, but they will also enhance your ability to build on ideas during discussion. You can also improve your ability to persuade by learning how to use the skills of debaters, not to win an argument but to be able to consider discussions from all perspectives and address all feedback.
There is an on slot of innovative ideas that need input from all to be refined, so expect conflict. Learn to effectively handle conflict to move discussions forward and minimize lingering negative emotions.

Develop your collaboration skills
With the changes in the way work is done everything is interconnected with everything else. So the most important thing is how you connect with and work with others.
You will need to effectively collaborate with and problem solve with those who may share a common interest but different values. Of course if everyone would think the way that you do and share the same values and perspective then your job would be perfect. That is exactly what everyone else is thinking as well. So learn to motivate those who are a challenge to deal with to help you achieve your goals whether they are project goals, career advancement goals or everyday operations.
In a global economy you will find yourself interacting with others who have different values and different ideas about the way things should be done. With effective collaborative skills you’ll minimize the challenges.

Develop relationships
Face to face networking is still the way to gain influence. Expand and develop relationships at all levels of your organization, throughout your industry and with professionals in industries that may complement the work you do. You’ll need advice, insight, direction and information from those in the know to develop your plan, to continuously evaluate it and to experience the career advancement you desire.

Learn the unwritten rules of career advancement
It is not that anyone is hiding the rules. There are many tracks to career advancement in which case a plan specific to your current skills and experience should be developed. Let your desire be known. Enlist the support you need from talent managers, your bosses and other colleagues. Let them know that you’d like their help.
Stay connected for several online posts about the unspoken rules of career advancement. Start with this brief intro.

Help others succeed
You cannot have success unless those around you are successful
Have you ever worked on a team with someone who just couldn’t or wouldn’t pull their weight? You spent half the day complaining to your other team members, boss, significant other, friend, sibling, anyone who would listen. Some people just don’t know the skills necessary to be a successful team member. But you need your team or support staff to be successful in order for you to be successful, so help them when you see an opportunity. Pass on an article, a link, a blog post or a specific professional development book. Your success relies on their success.

Seek frequent feedback
Are you absolutely certain you have the skills and have demonstrated the skills required for the position you want? If you are not the decision maker then you need to know what they are thinking. You’ll need to get their honest feedback about your performance and your promotability. Learn how the decision makers view you, your work and your professional presence. Learn what they need to see from you and in turn let them know your interests and goals. Learn which skills you need to develop and which strategic initiatives you need to focus on. Read more about the importance of feedback.

Take on assignments that will require you to develop and demonstrate the skills required for career advancement
Problem solving, project management, product or service development and implementation, financial and data analysis and strategic planning are only a few of the skills you need to develop and demonstrate. Look at new tasks and challenging assignment as essential opportunities to develop these skills rather than tasks outside of your job responsibility or personal capability. If you do you will offer someone else the opportunity to develop the skills and experience career advancement.

Remain relevant
Keep an eye on industry trends, business trends, technology trends, that will affect the way you do work. Stay abreast of technology on the horizon by developing relationships with leading thinkers in your industry, industry periodicals and credible websites and blogs. Where necessary make time to learn the new skills and even be the expert about what is on the horizon. Take opportunities to discuss upcoming trends in meetings, during social interactions or set up formal presentations.

Differentiate yourself
If you have conditioned yourself to fit in, this is the year to take an assessment of how you are uniquely different. What attributes, strengths and interests do you have that will set you apart from others? How can you uniquely add value? Companies need new ideas to remain competitive which requires diversity of thought, talent and ideas. If you are like everyone else do you want to leave it to chance that you will be the one selected? Be a stand out in the way you add value.

Develop a detailed and flexible plan
Although goals provide the motivation you need, you’ll need a detailed plan to keep you focused and on target with your career advancement plan this year. With so many distractions including from the media, noise from those who are discontent and from those who do not have similar career advancement goals it is easy to get distracted. Develop a plan with input from your company talent manager, boss, your personal career coach, a transition coach, mentor or sponsor, but know that it must be flexible and reviewed frequently, particularly after receiving valid feedback.

Don’t leave your career advancement to chance. You can take an active role.

To view original article CLICK HERE

Friday, June 22, 2012

Fun Fact Friday

99 Excuses for Missing Work

Everyone needs, or wants, to miss work at some point. But, if you don’t have a real excuse, you’re going to need to make up a good one. Below are some excuses you can use. Some are classic excuses, others are creative, and some are questionable. Pick your favorite and try it out on your boss.

When I got up this morning I accidentally took two Ex-Lax in addition to my Prozac. I can’t get off the john, but I feel good about it.
The voices told me to clean all the guns today.
I threw my back out bowling.
My stigmata’s acting up again.
I’ll be stalking my previous boss, who fired me for not showing up for work.
I am stuck in the blood pressure machine down at the grocery store.
Yes, I seem to have contracted some attention-deficit disorder and, hey, how about them Dodgers, huh? So, I won’t be able to, yes, could I help you? No, no, I’ll be sticking with Sprint, but thank you for calling.
I just found out that I was switched at birth. Legally, I shouldn’t come to work knowing my employee records may now contain false information.
My psychiatrist me a jaw restraint so I won’t bite things when I am startled.
The dog ate my car keys. We’re going to hitchhike to the vet.
I prefer to remain an enigma.
The EPA has determined that my house is completely surrounded by wetlands and I have to arrange for helicopter transportation.
I am converting my calendar from Julian to Gregorian.
I refuse to travel to my job until there is a commuter tax. I insist on paying my fair share.
I’ve earned a day off.
I’m Playing Golf with a Client.
I have a Doctor’s appointment.
I have a Dentist appointment.
I have cramps.
I’m working from home.
There’s been a death in the family.
I’m too sleepy from working all day yesterday.
I have a personal emergency.
My fish is sick and I need to take it to the vet.
My daughter got a round hair brush stuck in her hair and I need to help her get it out.
I have come down with Spring Fever.
I fell off a ladder fixing the roof on my house and I injured by back.
I was attacked and need to recover.
I was mugged and the thief took my car keys and driver’s license.
I have a migraine.
My eyes are watering for some reason causing blurry vision.
I’m in the hospital.
I’m still drunk from last night.
I need a mental recovery day.
Last night I had a party and I woke up with a strange man in my bed and he won’t leave.
My car caught on fire on the way to work.
My car ran out of gas on the way to work so I pushed it to a gas station, but I got a stomach hernia and I have to go to the doctor’s.
My cat got ran over and I need to take it to the vet.
My boyfriend hit me and I’m kind of messed up.
I was stepping out of my trailer and I missed the step and landed on the ground injuring my back.
My shrink put me on a new depressant yesterday and I’m feeling weird.
Had to be rushed to hospital for coffee burns on my lap.
The city is paving my street and I can’t get out of my neighborhood.
The hazmat crew is here and won’t let me out of the house.
My wife is too sick to get out of bed and I have to stay home to take care of her.
My waterbed busted and my room is flooded.
My daughter ran away, so I should stay home to see if she comes back.
I won’t be in today….I’m calling in dead.
My home is flooded and I’m currently standing on my dresser in my second story bedroom.
I do not feel up to par today.
I tried to dye my hair blonde, but it came out blue.
I spent my paycheck on lottery tickets, and I’m out of gas until payday.
I got the end of a Q-tip stuck in my ear and have to go to the doctor’s to get it out.
My horse overate and needs to be walked so he doesn’t lay down and die.
I have the flu.
A SWAT team closed off a part of a street after a disgruntled ex-employee shot several people.
My agoraphobia (fear of leaving the house) is kicking in and I am afraid to come in today.
The springs on my garage door broke and I can’t get my car out cause the door won’t open.
My spiritual guide said something bad will happen to me if I leave my house today.
My spiritual guide said there will be a fire at my work today so I’m staying home.
If I tell you why I can’t come in, I’d have to kill you.
You’re on a need to basis, but you don’t need to know.
You can’t handle the truth.
My dog is having puppies and I need to help her.
My cat is having kittens and I need to help her.
Someone smashed in my windows this morning with a large blunt object.
I sprained my wrist cooking breakfast in the microwave.
I slipped in the shower and injured my knee. I can’t walk on it at all.
I cut my self shaving and it hurts to walk.
I locked myself in the bathroom.
I locked my keys in my car.
I locked myself out of the house.
My dog died.
My street is flooded and I can’t drive out.
Someone dumped a truck-load of sand in front of my driveway and I can’t get out.
My cat was alarmed by my sleep-talking and jumped off the bed, knocked my alarm off the dresser, of which the batteries fell out; so I over slept.
I can’t find any clothes to wear.
My washing machine broke and I don’t have any clean clothes.
My water has been turned off.
I didn’t pay my electricity bill so I can’t see to get ready.
I am sick with the Lack. Lack of ambition.
Last night a friend I haven’t seen in a long time came over and gave me a bear hug and broke one of my ribs.
I was up all weekend with this new girl I met and I didn’t get any sleep…if you know what I mean.
My asthma is really bad.
I tried lifting my daughter out of her crib and twisted my back.
On my way to work today, my tooth cracked. I’ll be going to the dentist.
The fan belt broke on my van.
The brakes went out on my car.
My car has a flat tire.
The hot water tap in my shower broke.
I’m stuck in the bathroom without any toilet paper.
During the night the power must have gone off because when I woke up my alarm clock time was flashing.
My cat is lonely and stressed out and if I don’t spend quality time with him, he will keep peeing on the furniture.
My wife said she is going to conceive today, and I want to be there when it happens.
My chain came off my bicycle.
I came down with a bad case of something or other.
My cat hid my car keys because she gets lonesome when I’m gone.
I was taking a shower and I dropped the soap, as I reached down to pick it up, I slipped and fell causing me to bust my lip, twist my ankle, strain my back, stub my finger, and get soap in my eyes.
The babysitter didn’t show up today so I have to watch my kids.

To view original article CLICK HERE