Canadian Oil and Gas Industry

You may have heard of, or even know, people who have chosen to relocate to Western Canada to work in the Canadian oil sands, and there is good reason for this.  The Canadian oil and gas industry pays some of the highest wages. Six-figure salaries are not uncommon for entry-level workers.  These jobs are laborious and physically demanding, yet also rewarding.  The oil and gas industry is predicted to double in size in the years to come, increasing the demand for young, strong workers.

Check out this inforgraphic: http://talentegg.ca/incubator/2012/10/12/infographic-drilling-deeper-careers-oil-gas-industry/

Health Information Technology Careers

Careers in healthcare are not limited to nurses, pharmacists, and doctors.  There is, in fact, a whole other branch of healthcare to be explored - Health Information Technology.  The medical field is dynamic and forever changing, especially in terms of technology and advancement, making health IT a promising field.  Electronic health records have slowly been implemented in the healthcare industry. With the hopes of improving patient care and outcomes, eHealth will continue to progress in the future as medicine becomes more technical.  Health Information Technology involves working with electronic health records, diagnostic coding, and increasing the safety and security of patients.  Though it may not be the conventional healthcare career you immediately think of, this career path involves a good starting salary, dynamic and challenging work, and most importantly, job growth.

Jobs in the Healthcare Industry

One of your best bets to gain employment quickly after graduation is to pick a career in the healthcare field.  You most likely have heard of the term Baby Boomer. If not, they are people who were born between 1946 and 1964. Baby Boomers will greatly impact the healthcare field in the future, since a large percentage of current employees within the field are Baby Boomers who are approaching retirement age. This means a number of jobs will open up for recent graduates.  Since one in three Canadians are Baby Boomers, this means that 1/3 of the population will retire from various industries and require additional care in coming years. 

 

Why choose a career in healthcare?

·         The industry is dynamic and fast paced

·         Job growth and job security

·         Opportunity to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team

·         Competitive salary

·         Make an impact and work with people

Important Skills to Get a Job

When you’re looking for a job, it’s important to consider both your hard and soft skills. Your hard skills are your college education, and any relevant certifications and/or internships you’ve completed. Many of your hard skills will come from your academic background, but don’t forget to take the initiative to build extra skills in your field outside of school. This will give you a competitive edge when you apply for jobs. 

Soft skills will be what make you a well-rounded candidate and an asset to any company. Your soft skills pertain to how you conduct yourself:  how do you communicate? Are you professional? Are you able to work well with in a team?  Employers want to see that you are able to communicate clearly and effectively, which is usually conveyed through your resume, cover letter, and during the interview process. Employers also focus on your ability to analyze, problem solve, and be creative.

When you apply for a job, consider the skills listed on the job posting. Prepare examples of how you have demonstrated these skills in the past, so you’re prepared during an interview.

Job Possibilities in the Green Industry

With over 100,000 current employees retiring from the ‘green’ industry in the next decade, workers will be in high demand.  Jobs in the environmental sector can include the traditional green trades, green education, green design and innovation, and many more. Here are some examples:

Green Trades:

• Wind Turbine Technician

-        Increasingly in high demand

-        A background in Engineering Technology is useful for this career

-        Work as part of a small team that repairs, programs, and assesses wind turbines

-        Average wage: $18-26/hour

• Solar Service Technicians

-        Be a part of a small team that repairs and maintains solar installations

-        A licensed or apprenticing electrician can work as a solar technician  

-        Average wage: $20-30/hour

•  HVAC Technician

-        Electrical technician diploma holders can get into this area

-        Apprenticeship opportunities

-        Average wage: $15-30/hour

-         

Green Education

(A background in Public Relations is suggested for these positions (http://www.loyalistcollege.com/programs-and-courses/full-time-programs/public-relations)

• Communications Officer

-        Found in different sectors of the green industry

-        Build and project a company/organization’s profile through media resources

-        If environmental conservation interests you, this could be a great opportunity for you

-        With a diploma in advertising and marketing communications this could become a career possibility

-        Salary is based on experience. For one to four years of experience, employees can expect to earn between $40,000 and $55,000 annually. Those with more than 20 years of experience can make as much as $75,000 annually.

• Community Animator

-        If you are outgoing this could be a good fit for you

-        Inform the public about sustainable energy and technology

-        Average wage: $30,000 - $80,000 annually

The Green Energy Industry in Ontario

Did you know that Ontario has one of the largest demands for “green collar” jobs?   With the Green Energy and Green Economy Act, released in 2009, Ontario has increased its focus on renewable and clean energy, energy conservation, and the need for jobs in the related fields.  This act is expected to create at least 50,000 new jobs in the green energy industry, which is promising for students and recent grads.  On top of the jobs created by the Green Energy and Green Economy Act, many workers in the industry are looking at retirement within the next ten years, creating even more potential positions.  According to Eco-Canada Environmental Careers Organization, renewable energy is within the top five green sectors with job vacancies.  Some vacancies within this sector include: quality control management, security advisor, mechanical service technicians, and wind technicians.  Renewable and green energy includes things like hydropower, solar energy, wind energy, biofuels, and many others. If this is the sort of thing that interests you, it is definitely worth a look!

Where Will the Jobs be in 2020?

To view the original infographic, visit http://www.nextpunch.com/job-growth-2020/.

M. Silvester

Making it Big Monday

How to Make Your Cover Letter Stand Out
 

A cover letter is essentially a formalized letter about you and why a company should hire you. Your cover letter should represent you and your personality. It shows a potential employer your knowledge, skills and abilities that are related to the position you are applying, while illustrating your basic communication skills, grammar and that you are truly interested in the position that the company is hiring for. Although cover letters are time consuming they are imperative to get an employer to look into your resume further.

Every cover letter should be customized to the position and company you are applying for. A generic cover letter does not pop at a potential employer and will not get you into the "maybe" pile. The employer is essentially telling you what you need to write in your cover letter through their job description and job requirements section. When beginning to write your cover letter, look at the job posting mark down which attributes you currently possess, and an example of each attribute. Then look at the attributes you do not possess and think of ways to either conquer those challenges, or other items in your positive skills section that are similar to the attribute and include that into the cover letter.

Personalize the cover letter to the hiring manager’s name and job position. Do not use “to whom it may concern” or “dear sir/ mam”. When in doubt, leave it out.

A common mistake on a cover letter and/ or resume is lacking professionalism. Ensure your email is proofread, email and grammar are professional and that you demonstrate your qualities with examples. Anyone can say they are a fantastic communicator, but how will you prove you are what you say you are.

Do not use unprofessional email addresses. Although your email address from grade 9 “Ilovekittys6912@hotmail” is cute to you, your potential employer may not appreciate it as much.

Use a professional approach to all aspects of your job search. Again, when in doubt ask someone else or leave it out.

E. Kryschuk

Top Job Thursday

Top Companies

There are literally thousands of companies, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Perks are offered to attract and retain employees to the company. However, if you can not mesh with the atmosphere or the people within the company, all of the perks in the world will not get you to stay.

There are tons of websites that illustrate "Top Companies" for Canada or the local area, some people say these sites are biased and people pay to be on them. This blog has published a few of those top company lists. Although these lists have been criticized in the past, they offer some fantastic insight as to what the company has to offer their employees.

You need to understand what you want from a company. Is it about pay? Education? Benefits? Discounts? Hours? Understanding what you want will allow you to enjoy your work experience and allow you to work in one of the top companies.

E.Kryschuk

Witty Wednesday

100 Funny Business Quotes

In all seriousness, business can be pretty funny. From rickety leadership to entropic working styles, the business world, like real life, is shaded with chuckles. Here are 100 funny business quotes and sayings* that hold a grain of truth in their humor.

 

*attributed where sources were available

1. If you see a bandwagon, it’s too late. James Goldsmith
2. Early to bed and early to rise probably indicates unskilled labor. John Ciardi
3. Why join the navy if you can be a pirate? Steve Jobs
4. The problem with the rat race is that even if you win, you’re still a rat. Lilly Tomlin
5. He’s taking this company to hell, and we’re riding shotgun. 
6. She got kicked upstairs. (She was promoted to a higher position that’s less appealing than her current one. This is business jargon.)
7. Don’t piss on my back and tell me it’s raining. Old West quote
8. Run your idea up the flagpole and see if anyone salutes it.
9. We have paralysis by analysis.
10. Get the right people on the bus and in the right seat. Jim Collins
11. The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary. Vidal Sassoon
12. When you’re up to your armpits in alligators, it’s hard to remember to drain the swamp. Ronald Reagan
13.  Tell them what you’re going to tell them, tell them, then tell them what you told them.
14. Communications axim
15. When you assume, you make an “ass” out of “u” and “me.”
16. Don’t beat a dead horse.
17. Never try to teach a pig to sing. It wastes your time and it annoys the pig.
18. George Bernard Shaw
19. Always forgive your enemies. Nothing annoys them more. Oscar Wilde
20. Don’t corner something meaner than you. Old West saying
21. Failure is not an option—it comes bundled with the software.
22. A picture is worth 1,000 words, but it uses up 3,000 times the memory.
23. The successful man is the one who finds out what is the matter with his business before his competitors do. Roy L. Smith
24. Eagles soar, but weasels don’t get sucked into jet engines.
25. Every employee rises to the level of his own incompetence. The Peter Principle
26. Work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion. Cyril Northcote Parkinson/Parkinson’s Law.
27. The light at the end of the tunnel has been turned off due to budget cuts.
28. There’s an idiot somewhere deprived of a village.
29. A successful man is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks others have thrown at him. David Brinkley
30. A meeting is an event at which the minutes are kept and the hours are lost.
31. She works well when under constant supervision and cornered like a rat in a trap.
32. She should go far. The sooner she starts, the better.
33. The higher a monkey climbs, the more you see of its behind. Joseph Stilwell
34. They slipped into the gene pool when the lifeguard wasn’t looking.
35. He has hit rock bottom and started to dig.
36. Success in almost any field depends more on energy and drive than it does on intelligence.
37. This explains why we have so many stupid leaders. Sloan Wilson
38. The wheels are turning, but the hamsters are all dead.
39. Make it idiot-proof and someone will make a better idiot.
40. I learned long ago, never to wrestle with a pig, you get dirty; and besides, the pig likes it. George Bernard Shaw
41. If you give him a penny for his thoughts, you’ll get change.
42. Nothing is illegal if a hundred businessmen decide to do it. Andrew Young
43. There’s no secret about success. Did you ever know a successful man who didn’t tell you about it? Kin Hubbard
44. There’s no business like show business, but there are several businesses like accounting. David Letterman
45. Don’t worry about people stealing your ideas. If your ideas are any good, you’ll have to ram them down people’s throats. Howard Aiken
46. If it’s stupid but works, it isn’t stupid.
47. If work is so terrific, why do they have to pay you to do it?
48. There’s an enormous number of managers who have retired on the job. Peter Drucker
49. By working faithfully eight hours a day you may eventually get to be boss and work twelve hours a day. Robert Frost
50. Accomplishing the impossible means only the boss will add it to your regular duties. Doug Larson
51. Success is going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm. Winston Churchill
52. A budget tells us what we can’t afford, but it doesn’t keep us from buying it. William Feather
53. If you can count your money, you don’t have a billion dollars. J. Paul Getty
54. The worst part of success is to try to find someone who is happy for you. Bette Midler
55. A company is known by the people it keeps.
56. At some time in the lifecycle of every organization, its ability to succeed in spite of itself runs out.
57. Money can’t buy friends, but you can get a better class of enemy. Spike Milligan
58. Success is relative. It is what we can make of the mess we have made of things. TS Eliot
59. If you would like to know the value of money, try to borrow some.  Benjamin Franklin
60. Don’t stay in bed, unless you can make money in bed. George Burns
61. If not controlled, work will flow to the competent man until he submerges.
62. If you don’t know what to do with many of the papers piled on your desk, stick a dozen colleagues initials on them and pass them along. When in doubt, route. Malcolm S. Forbes quotes
63. It is better to spend money like there’s no tomorrow than to spend tonight like there’s no money. PJ O’Rourke
64. Never invest in anything that eats or needs repairing. Billy Rose
65. If at first you don’t succeed; you are running about average. MH Alderson
66. The most popular labor-saving device is still money. Phyllis George
67. Nothing recedes like success. Walter Winchell
68. Find a job you like and you add five days to every week. H. Jackson Brown
69. It’s hard to lead a cavalry charge if you think you look funny on a horse. Adlai Stevenson
70. If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. Then quit. There’s no point in being a damn fool about it. WC Fields
71. Rome did not create a great empire by having meetings, they did it by killing all those who opposed them.
72. Artificial intelligence is no match for natural stupidity.
73. If at first you don’t succeed, failure may be your style. Quentin Crisp
74. Never put off until tomorrow what you can avoid altogether.
75. A clean desk is a sign of a cluttered desk drawer.
76. All you need in this life is ignorance and confidence, and then success is sure. Mark Twain
77. If at first you don’t succeed, try management.
78. Indecision is the key to flexibility.
79. If at first you don’t succeed, take the tax loss. Kirk Kirkpatrick
80. Aim low, reach your goals, and avoid disappointment. Scott Adams/Dilbert
81. Life is like a dogsled team. If you ain’t the lead dog, the scenery never changes. Lewis Grizzard
82. The best way to appreciate your job is to imagine yourself without one. Oscar Wilde
83. All paid jobs absorb and degrade the mind. Aristotle
84. Beware of any enterprise requiring new clothes. Henry Thoreau
85. Do not underestimate your abilities. That is your boss’s job.
86. Right now, this is a job. If I advance any higher, this would be my career. And if this were my career, I’d have to throw myself in front of a train. Jim Halpert/The Office
87. Every man has a right to be conceited until he is successful. Benjamin Disraeli
88. You never become a howling success by just howling. Bob Harrington
89. Success means only doing what you do well, letting someone else do the rest. Goldstein S. Truism
90. Success and failure are both difficult to endure. Along with success come drugs, divorce, fornication, bullying, travel, meditation, medication, depression, neurosis and suicide. With failure comes failure. Joseph Heller
91. Victory goes to the player who makes the next-to-last mistake. Savielly Grigorievitch Tartakower
92. Success is simply a matter of luck. Ask any failure. Earl Wilson
93. Never interrupt your enemy when he is making a mistake. Napoleon Bonaparte
94. One of the greatest victories you can gain over someone is to beat him at politeness. Josh Billings
95. There’s nothing so improves the mood of the Party as the imminent execution of a senior colleague. Alan Clark
96. I’m not the smartest fellow in the world, but I can sure pick smart colleagues. Franklin D. Roosevelt
97. Make sure you have a vice president in charge of your revolution, to engender ferment among your more conventional colleagues. David Ogilvy
98. A consultant is someone who takes the watch off your wrist and tells you the time.
99. An expert is someone called in at the last minute to share the blame.
100. Speak the truth, but leave immediately after.
101. For maximum attention, nothing beats a good mistake.
102. One of the symptoms of an approaching nervous breakdown is the belief that one’s work is terribly important. Bertrand Russell

Sources: SMBTN, Businessballs, Basicjokes, Thinkexist, OfficeHumor, DennyDavis

To view the original article from Business Punit CLICK HERE

Tip Tuesday

Tailor your resume, it is important!

Resumes can be generic that is if you are applying to the same type of job just at different locations.

But a few things you want to do are: personalise the look, highlight relevant material and tailor your resume to the position. This will help your resume to stand out to employers.

Personalise!

Whether it is coming up with a creative header or using colour, personalising your resume is a great way to stand out. Now this doesn’t mean put the font in crazy colours or crazy font (try and keep the font as New Times Roman or a standard font), we want you to keep it subtle but unique.

Using creative bullets is one way to make your resume different from the rest. Instead of using black dots, try using check marks or a funky shape.

You can also print your resume in colour and/or have a coloured header. This will catch the employer’s eyes and help your resume stand out. But remember, if your resume is meant to be in colour, print it in colour!

Highlight relevant material

If there is something on your resume that you feel is very important for the employer to see, put it in bold. Now this does not mean bold everything or even an entire row of information, but if you have jobs in the employment section that relate to the job you are applying, bold the position. For example, if you are looking to work as a PSW and you have done a PSW placement highlight PSW PLACEMENT.

Tailor your Resume

If you have extensive amounts of employment history or a long list of education that makes your resume 2-3 pages, pick out the most relevant to the position you are applying for.

For example, if you are applying for a position in customer service and you have worked as a cashier at Walmart and have answered phones in an office and have worked construction, you can leave construction out if you need to save space. Same with skills, if you have worked at McDonalds but are applying for a job with children, working with a deep fryer is something that may be replaced. Working in a kitchen you must follow safety rules and regulations, which you can put on your resume to replace, worked with deep fryer.

It is very important to have an "objective" section on each resume. In this section you will state who you are and what you are looking for.

For example: Loyalist College second year Nursing students seeking a placement position with Quinte Health Care.

You don’t have to make every resume as personal as a cover letter but adding in an objective that contains the place of employment, makes it more personal for the hiring manager then a resume that says: Nursing student looking for a placement in a health unit.

K. Jolley

Making it Big Monday

Careers After Graduation

Many students do not start their career planning until a month before graduation. Although students see this as ample time to get a job, it may not be the career path they had originally intended when signing up for college.

With only 7 weeks left of your last semester, students are scrambling to find placements, jobs, and figure out what to do next after graduation. If you haven't started at this point, you may be sadly left out of the hiring or the university transfer path. But do not fear, it may take you a little longer to get to your end goal (if you have one defined), but you will make it.

Start by trying to define what you want to do when school is done. Is there a  company in particular where you can see yourself working? Are they currently hiring, allowing placement students or volunteers to enter into the workforce? What qualifications, experience or attributes to they want in an employee? And do you have what they are looking for? Do you need to complete additional training to be accepted into their company?

E. Kryschuk

Witty Wednesday

Funny Jobs

31. Pickpocket

There's a burglar in my pants!

 

32. Serving Wench

The waitress on a pirate ship.

 

33. Rush Tribute Band

 

34. Analyzing Systems

 

35. Barista

I guess "Coffee Sommelier" was too pretentious.

36. Cleaning Bird Shit Out of Cuckoo Clocks

This once killed at a family gathering.

To view the original article CLICK HERE

Tip Tuesday

Summer Jobs

Summer Job Search Tips

 

Looking for a summer job? Here are some time-saving tips that will help you find a summer job fast.
 Get Help. If you are a teen or a college student looking for a summer job, check with your high school Guidance Office or college Career Services Office and ask how they can assist with your summer job search. Working Papers. In some states, if you are under eighteen, you may need to obtain working papers in order to legally be able to work. Get them now, so you will be able to start work as soon as you get the job. Resume or Not? If you are applying via mail or email you will need to submit a resume. If you are applying in person, bring a resume if you have one. If not, be prepared to complete an application. Use our Resume Writing Guide to get going on writing a resume. If you have never written a resume, here is advice on writing your first resume. It doesn't have to be lengthy or complicated! References Ready. Have a list of a few references ready to give to interviewers. Baby-sitting and volunteer references are fine, if you haven't worked before. Summer Job Sites. There are a variety of sites that list summer job openings. Search the job banks that focus on summer jobs and summer camp jobs. Search the part-time job sites too. Hit the Road. Interested in working at a local amusement park, beach or park or at a retail store in town or at the mall? One of the best ways to find this type of summer job is by applying in person. So, plan on spending some time visiting potential job sites and filling out applications. Check the Newspaper. Don't forget to check the the Help Wanted ads in your newspaper and in small local papers like The Intelligencer. Networking Works. Networking isn't just for full-time employment. Tell everyone you know you are looking for a summer job, you never know who might be able to help you out. Dress Appropriately. Make sure you dress appropriately, are ready to complete an application, and are prepared for an on-the-spot interview:

• Dress should be neat and tidy. Business casual (khakis and a collared shirt) is usually appropriate.
• Make sure your hair and fingernails are well groomed.
• Wear moderate shoes.
• Bring the information you need to complete an application, along with a pen and pad of paper for notes.

Don't Wait. Summer jobs often get filled fast, so getting going on your job search! On the other hand, college students often leave their summer job early to go back to school. So, if you have gotten a late start on your summer, you still may be able to find a job for the latter part of the season.

To view the original article CLICK HERE

Top Job Thursday

Top 18 Jobs for 2013

CareerBuilder and Economic Modeling Specialists Intl. (EMSI) just released the results of their latest study that used EMSI’s rich labor market database, which pulls from over 90 national and state employment resources and includes detailed information on employees and self-employed workers, to find the best jobs (that require a bachelor's degree) for 2013. Here are the top 18.

Occupations requiring a bachelor’s degrees that have produced the most jobs post-recession include:

No. 1 Software Developers (Applications and Systems Software)
70,872 jobs added since 2010, 7% growth

No. 2 Accountants and Auditors
37,123 jobs added since 2010, 3% growth

No. 3 Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists
31,335 jobs added since 2010, 10% growth

No. 4 Computer Systems Analysts
26,937 jobs added since 2010, 5% growth

No. 5 Human Resources, Training and Labor Relations Specialists
22,773 jobs added since 2010, 5% growth

No. 6 Network and Computer Systems Administrators
18,626 jobs added since 2010, 5% growth

No. 7 Sales Representatives (Wholesale and Manufacturing, Technical and Scientific)
17,405 jobs added since 2010, 4% growth

No. 8 Information Security Analysts, Web Developers and Computer Network Architects
15,715 jobs added since 2010, 5% growth

No. 9 Mechanical Engineers
13,847 jobs added since 2010, 6% growth

No. 10 Industrial Engineers
12,269 jobs added since 2010, 6% growth

No. 11 Computer Programmers
11,540 jobs added since 2010, 3% growth

No. 12 Financial Analysts
10,016 jobs added since 2010, 4% growth

No. 13 Public Relations Specialists
8,541 jobs added since 2010, 4% growth

No. 14 Logisticians
8,522 jobs added since 2010, 8% growth

No. 15 Database Administrators
7,468 jobs added since 2010, 7% growth

No. 16 Meeting, Convention and Event Planners
7,072 jobs added since 2010, 10% growth

No. 17 Cost Estimators
6,781 jobs added since 2010, 3% growth

No. 18 Personal Financial Advisors
5,212 jobs added since 2010, 3% growth

To view the original article CLICK HERE

Witty Wednesday

Funny Jobs

21. Coffee Bitch
The new guy everyone makes go on Starbucks runs.

22. Crime Fighter

Job held by Batman, Deputy Dog, Sherlock Holmes, Encyclopedia Brown, T.J. Hooker, and others.

 

23. Herpetologist

Someone who studies frogs (and reptiles and other amphibians).

 

24. Haberdasher

 

25. Door-to-Door Salesman

"Hey, uhh, wanna buy an anvil?"

26. Knob Polisher

 

27. Fishmonger

It sounds funnier than it really is.

 

28. Hobo

Unfortunately, they were hunted into extinction in the 1930's.

 

29. Swishy Hairdresser

 

30. Head Honcho

At my latest job review, I told my boss that it was my career goal to be the head honcho.

 

To view the original article CLICK HERE

Tip Tuesday

Top 10 interview questions...and how you should answer them

As the saying goes, "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail". So here is a valuable insight into the world of interview questions and the techniques best used to answer them.
There are some questions that are asked frequently in interviews and you should prepare your answers beforehand. The key things to remember when responding to interview questions are to keep your answers relevant, brief and to the point. If you are faced with a difficult question, make sure you stay calm, don't get defensive, and take a moment to think about your response before you answer.
Remember, these responses are only suggestions. Try to personalize your response as much as possible.

Question: Tell me about yourself.
A: Identify some of your main attributes and memorize them. Describe your qualifications, career history and range of skills, emphasizing those skills relevant to the job on offer.

Q: What have your achievements been to date?
A: Select an achievement that is work-related and fairly recent. Identify the skills you used in the achievement and quantify the benefit it had to the company. For example, 'my greatest achievement has been to design and implement a new sales ledger system, bringing it in ahead of time and improving our debtors' position significantly, saving the company $50,000 per month in interest'.

Q: Are you happy with your career to date?
A: This question is really about your self-esteem, confidence and career aspirations. The answer must be 'yes', followed by a brief explanation as to what it is about your career so far that's made you happy. If you have hit a career plateau, or you feel you are moving too slowly, then you must qualify your answer.

Q: What is the most difficult situation you have had to face and how did you tackle it?
A: The purpose of this question is to find out what your definition of difficult is and whether you can show a logical approach to problem solving. In order to show yourself in a positive light, select a difficult work situation which was not caused by you and which can be quickly explained in a few sentences. Explain how you defined the problem, what the options were, why you selected the one you did and what the outcome was. Always end on a positive note.

Q: What do you like about your present job?
A: This is a straightforward question. All you have to do is make sure that your 'likes' correspond to the skills etc. required in the job on offer. Be enthusiastic; describe your job as interesting and diverse but do not overdo it - after all, you are looking to leave.

Q: What do you dislike about your present job?
A: Be cautious with this answer. Do not be too specific as you may draw attention to weaknesses that will leave you open to further problems. One approach is to choose a characteristic of your present company, such as its size or slow decision-making processes etc. Give your answer with the air of someone who takes problems and frustrations in your stride as part of the job.

Q: What are your strengths?
A: This is one question that you know you are going to get so there is no excuse for being unprepared. Concentrate on discussing your main strengths. List three or four proficiencies e.g. your ability to learn quickly, determination to succeed, positive attitude, your ability to relate to people and achieve a common goal. You may be asked to give examples of the above so be prepared.

Q: What is your greatest weakness?
A: Do not say you have none - this will lead to further problems. You have two options - use a professed weakness such as a lack of experience (not ability) on your part in an area that is not vital for the job. The second option is to describe a personal or professional weakness that could also be considered to be a strength, and the steps you have taken to combat it. An example would be, 'I know my team thinks I'm too demanding at times - I tend to drive them pretty hard but I'm getting much better at using the carrot and not the stick'.

Q: Why do you want to leave your current employer?
A: State how you are looking for a new challenge, more responsibility, experience and a change of environment. Do not be negative in your reasons for leaving. It is rarely appropriate to cite salary as your primary motivator.

Q: Why have you applied for this particular job?
A: The employer is looking for evidence that the job suits you, fits in with your general aptitudes, coincides with your long-term goals and involves doing things you enjoy. Make sure you have a good understanding of the role and the organization, and describe the attributes of the organization that interest you most.

Other questions to consider:

• How does your job fit in to your department and company?
• What do you enjoy about this industry?
• Give an example of when you have worked under pressure.
• What kinds of people do you like working with?
• Give me an example of when your work was criticized.
• Give me an example of when you have felt anger at work. How did you cope and did you still perform a good job?
• What kind of people do you find it difficult to work with?
• Give me an example of when you have had to face a conflict of interest at work.
• Tell me about the last time you disagreed with your boss.
• Give me an example of when you haven't got on with others.
• Do you prefer to work alone or in a group? Why?
• This organization is very different to your current employer - how do you think you are going to fit in?
• What are you looking for in a company?
• How do you measure your own performance?
• What kind of pressures have you encountered at work?
• Are you a self-starter? Give me examples to demonstrate this?
• What changes in the workplace have caused you difficulty and why?
• How do you feel about working long hours and/or weekends?
• Give me an example of when you have been out of your depth.
• What have you failed to achieve to date?
• What can you bring to this organization?

To view the original article CLICK HERE

Making It Big Monday

The Interview Checklist

The goal of a selection interview is to predict the on-the-job performance of each applicant in order to select the best person for the available position. A handful of "on-paper" qualified candidates are interviewed to clarify their skills and experience and to assist their personal suitability to the position.
An interview should be viewed as an opportunity to show an employer what you have to offer, rather than as a nerve-racking ordeal.

Use this list to help with pre-interview planning.

Be Prepared

• Know where the office is and how you are going to get there on time; getting lost will only add to your anxiety level.
• Take time to choose appropriate attire (preferably the day before) and groom carefully -- appearances are important!
• Learn about the organization; the employer will want to know why you want to work there and how you think you can contribute to the organization's overall goals.
• Identify the relevant skills and experience you can bring to the job.
• Prepare two or three questions to ask the interviewer; avoid asking about benefits until you have been offered the job.

Demonstrate Good Manners

• Arrive 5 to 10 minutes before your appointment time.
• Shake hands firmly with the interviewer when you are introduced and again when the interview concludes.

• Do not smoke, chew gum or drink tea or coffee -- even if you are invited to do so.
• Maintain eye contact with the interviewer; otherwise, you will give the impression that you are disinterested or untrustworthy.
• Try not to fidget; it will distract the interviewer from what you are saying.
• Allow the interviewer to take the lead; do not interrupt when she/he is talking.
• Answer questions clearly and concisely; do not ramble.
• Pause to construct a thoughtful answer; do not blurt out the first thing that comes into your mind.
• Attend to the interviewer's body language and other cues to sense when the interview is concluding; do not linger.
• Thank the interviewer for her/his time before leaving.

Be Yourself

• Convey your strengths and abilities without appearing boastful or conceited; do not exaggerate your qualifications.
• Answer the questions honestly, rather than telling the interviewer what you think she/he wants to hear; you do not want to succeed in getting hired for a job for which you are not suited!
• Do not hesitate to show your (genuine) enthusiasm and engaging personality and... remember to smile.

In General

• Volunteer information only if it is positive and pertinent.
• Watch for opportunities to sell your skills.
• Avoid using negative terms. Substitute the words "challenge" or "opportunity" for the word problem.
• Never forget that your objective is to get a job offer.

To view the original article CLICK HERE

Top Job Thursday

Follow Up After the Job Fair

 

Your day is now complete. You’ve been to the Job Fair; you visited all the booths and handed out dozens of résumés. Now what? Time to build a follow up plan. Here are some ideas:

Get organized. Take some time to review your conversations, look through literature that you picked up, and make notes for each company, recruiter and opportunity. If you are missing contact information for someone you met, do some internet research to find it.

Apply online. Many people feel that a recruiter may be brushing them off by asking the candidate to “go to the website” but they are not! Hiring companies are subject to many regulations regarding tracking job applicants, and to be considered a candidate, you need to be recorded in their system. Get that online application submitted!

Send a thank-you note. Personal preference varies on whether email or hand written is better. Email is quicker, but it’s pretty cool (and unusual) to get a hand written note. Thank the recruiter for their time and try to mention something specific to your conversation that will help them remember you. Emphasize your interest in the company and position. Based on your conversation at the Job Fair, ask about follow up, and if appropriate, ask for an interview!

Stay in touch. Again, use your judgment based on the information that you learned from the recruiter. Do they have an immediate need? Will the process take several weeks? Follow up by email at the appropriate interval to stay top of mind as a motivated, proactive candidate.

To view the original article CLICK HERE

Witty Wednesday

Funny Jobs

11. Mime
Nature's way of thinning out the clown herd.

12. Merch Girl or Guy

They're "with the band".

 

13. Shopping Cart Wrangler

 

14. Cutpurses

Giving seaports and wharves a bad name since 1626.

 

15. Slubberdoffer

Refers to a person in the textile industry who removes bobbins on a slubbing machine.

 

16. Phlebotomist

The people that draw your blood at the hospital, aka vampires.

 

17. Robber Baron

 

18. Mohel

 

19. Carny

 

20. Cowpuncher

According to Dictionary.com, "a hired hand who tends cattle and performs other duties on horseback". So basically someone who does all that cowboy stuff on a ranch with cows.

 

To view the original article CLICK HERE

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.

To view the original article CLICK HERE

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.

To view the original article CLICK HERE

Top Job Thursday

Top jobs for 2012 and beyond

 

What careers and industries are in demand? Find out where experts say you can find the opportunities.

It’s gloomy out there — and we’re not talking about the weather. Every day we hear about how hard it is for this or that generation to find good opportunities in today’s competitive job market. Worse yet, experts don’t expect the situation to change much for the next few years.
At the same time, some companies can’t get enough skilled employees to meet their needs, and some sectors anticipate further shortages when the glut of baby boomers do retire. (The declining birth rate won’t help either.) Despite record unemployment levels, many people don’t have the right qualifications to fill the gap.
So where are the opportunities hiding? Experts in Canada and the U.S. point to these top careers for a start.

Information technology
Computer, smart phones, tablets… Technology seems to be everywhere these days so it’s hardly shocking there’s a demand for the people behind the devices and software we use. Canada has a thriving tech industry with many big names (like Google and RIM) as well as startups bringing new innovations to the market. (Deloitte has a list of the top 50 , but that’s only the tip of the iceberg.) Invest in Canada reports that the country is particularly strong in areas like wireless, software and digital media (especially games).
While many areas are vying for the title of “Silicone Valley North”, you don’t have to work in the high tech industry to be part of this trend. Many companies need IT personnel to evaluate, purchase, train and troubleshoot the technology and applications that bring value to their business.

Health care professionals
The “silver tsunami” will fuel demand for health care and health-related services in the coming years, but aging boomers aren’t the only factor. Overall, we’re living longer and more people are living with diseases that were deadly only decades ago. We’re also becoming more proactive about our health — using services and technology to stay ahead of problems.
It isn’t just doctors and nurses who will be in demand: experts say many specialties will be in demand, among them physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dentists and optometrists. To find out more about these careers, check with the professional organization that governs them and schools that offer the training.

Health care management and support staff
Likewise, it isn’t just the people who work directly with patients who are in demand. After all, running clinics, hospitals or health care-related companies requires employees across a variety of departments — including accounting, human resources and marketing.
If you’re looking for a “safe” industry to ply your skills and expertise, this one may be worth a look in the coming years. Not surprisingly, health care is second only to technology on CNNMoney Fortune‘s list of top careers.

Life sciences and biotechnology
Prefer to be on the cutting edge of research and innovation? These industries are predicted to grow thanks to demand for new treatments, new devices, new vaccines and new diagnostic tools. Don’t want to work for “Big Pharma”? Don’t worry: experts say startups will be hiring too.
Of course, the fields aren’t just about medicine. These umbrella terms include careers like biofuels and agriculture — and are a major part of some of Canada’s top industries. Biotech programs are available through colleges and universities across Canada. (Read more about this industry from Health Canada and the Council for Biotechnology Information .)

Engineers
It may not be a profession easily picked up in midlife, but experts say it’s one sector where new graduates can readily find a job in North America. According to a report from Engineers Canada , demand for engineers across many fields (including civic, mechanical, electrical, petroleum and computers) is already strong and set to increase through 2018. (Download a PDF of the report here .) Whether it’s replacing crumbling infrastructure, searching for oil or developing new technology, you’ll find engineers at the helm.
While tuition is often higher for engineering programs than other faculties, experts say it’s a good return on investment. Canadian programs boast a high employment rate within six months of graduation, and starting salaries often range a generous $45,000 to $59,000, according to a survey from TalentEgg.ca .

Industrial skills and trades
Parents used to dream of sending their offspring to university followed by a white-collar job, but the bias against the skilled trades has lead to a shortage of workers. In 2010, experts say there was already a shortage of 50,000 workers in Canada — and this number is expect to rise sharply in the coming decades. Some of Canada’s top industries like food services, automotive and manufacturing rely on the trades.
What about compensation? Contrary to popular belief, many people in the trades earn above average salaries, says Skills Canada — plus they complete their training without the burden of massive student debt. In fact, the government offers grants of up to $4000 for completing an apprenticeship.
If you’re already skilled in one of these areas, be on the look out for teaching opportunities. Colleges are looking to hire skilled instructors, and more high schools are offering courses in the trades. (Some faculties of education offer training programs for people in the trades, and teaching salaries can include credit for years worked in the field.)
For more information on careers in the trades, see Skills Canada , Careersintrades.ca , and the Ellis Chart .

Accounting and finance
Good news for people who are good with numbers: the state of the economy has individuals and companies alike paying more attention to their money. Experts like accountants, financial planners and money managers are needed not just in North America, but also around the world. Forensic accountants — who audit and investigate — and compliance specialists will also be in demand as companies continue to focus on accountability.
Another boon for Canada: our banking industry receives top marks from international organizations. We also get kudos for having some top-notch business schools, though tuition won’t come cheap.
According to CNNMoney, private equity firms are also on the hunt — proving there’s room for opportunities for seasoned veterans too.

Salespeople
Did we mention those economic woes? Companies need income and the people who bring in the clients and the cash will always be needed. (In fact, some experts say a career in sales is as close to being a recession-proof job as we get!) If you’ve got the skills and charisma, this arena can be quite lucrative when commissions and cash incentives are involved.
What if your interests turn to retail instead? Those big discount retail chains are where to look, says CNNMoney. As they continue to grow, they’re reportedly looking for managers as well as customer service staff and clerks.
Of course, not everyone is interested in (or suitable for) careers in these sectors, and no one really knows what’s going to happen in the future. Demand can also vary according to location — as can the expected salary and compensation.
What’s the take home lesson? Regardless of where your interests and ambitions lie, experts recommend doing some research before diving in.

To view the original article CLICK HERE