Top Job Thursday

The employee benefits of working retail

If you believe Clerks, working in retail's a dead end, a job you'd use to pay the bills while focusing on more pressing priorities. (In Dante and Randall's case, those priorities likely meant being charming layabouts.) But in the years since Kevin Smith made his signature film—and stopped working at a convenience store—something in the retail industry changed. Namely, it became a massive force.
Now, retail's one of Canada's growth industries—between 2001 and 2011, it grew 31.2 per cent, and last year, it was a $76.8 billion industry. It is, like oil and gas, one of Canada's most profitable sectors. Dead-end? Hardly.

Accordingly, working in retail has become a long-term career option—and, unlike other industries, which have slashed employee benefits, pension and job security, some of Canada's best retailers are actually adding benefits. Which means that if you want eye- and dental-care, you might be better served working for Apple than working a rando admin job on Bay Street. Things done changed, right?

So, if it's benefits ye seek, we've done the research for you. Here are some of the benefits some of Canada's top retailers offer:


APPLE CANADA
Yeah, their employees are known for being cultish. Sure, working here might completely iEquip your iLifestyle with iEverything. (A good thing, depending on who you are.) But the love Apple employees give their employer is well-earned—and their benefits package is excellent.
It begins with health and life insurance. Then, there's long-term disability coverage, vision care, tuition assistance, financial education seminars, a 401k plan, stock options and… yes, even a bad-ass employee discount—which currently, gets workers 25 per cent off all products. If you've recently begun working for Apple, that probationary period can't end soon enough.


STARBUCKS CANADA
The Seattle-based coffee giant has, in many ways, been a trailblazer in the benefits game—and it's not surprising that its employees elect to stay with the company. First, they've developed the Total Pay package, which pays you at market value according to your skills, ensuring you get paid your worth.
But then, the benefits kick in. There's bonuses, which reward certain business goals, health coverage, income protection, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance, adoption assistance, stock options and access to Starbucks freaking 401k savings plan. That, and you get a pound of coffee a week, just in case you weren't already addicted to the stuff. Read more about their bennies package here.


THE HOME DEPOT CANADA
Unleash the inner Mike Holmes. If you're handy, or have a passion about home improvement, there's few better places to work than Home Depot. Because, along with working an excellent retail position, their benefits could compete with an office job's any day.
Like what? Well, even their part-time employees receive dental, vision and life insurance. But full-timers get medical benefits, disability and life insurance, a 401k, stock options and group benefits, such as legal services, auto insurance and even vet insurance. Your cat will thank you later.


CHAPTERS-INDIGO
As one employee writes on theglassdoor.com, working here is "one of the best low-stress retail jobs out there." Sounds like our bag. But the perks don't stop there.
First, dental and health benefits are provided to all employees, whether full- or part-time. Then, the company will match RRSP/RDSP contributions, which'll simultaneously give you a tax break and help you save for the future. And then, there's the discounts: There's tuition reimbursement, employee referral benefits, and book borrowing. That way, you won't have to purchase 50 Shades of Grey proper.


THE SOURCE
Benefits? The Source has 'em. Along with excellent earning potential, they also provide tuition reimbursement for to-be students, company-matched RSPs, and employee assistance programs. Good stuff.


BEST BUY-FUTURE SHOP
Fun fact: Best Buy employee in Alberta and B.C. qualify for laser eye surgery discounts. But beyond that, the mega electronics retailer offers much more, including extended health and dental coverage, long-term disability insurance, a health spending account, stock plans and RRSP contributions. Add on access to all the gadgets you'd ever need, and there's really no reason to not continue a career with Best Buy.

To view the original article CLICK HERE

Witty Wednesday

Résumé Quotations

"I am very detail-oreinted."

"I have a bachelorette degree in computers."

"Graduated in the top 66% of my class."

"I worked as a Corporate Lesion."

"Served as assistant sore manager."

"Married, eight children. Prefer frequent travel."

"Objective: To have my skills and ethics challenged on a daily basis."

"Special skills: Thyping."

"Special skills: Experienced with numerous office machines and can make great lattes."

"I can play well with others."

"I have exhaustive experience in manufacturing."

"Special skills: I've got a Ph.D. in human feelings."

"My contributions on product launches were based on dreams that I had."

"I eat computers for lunch."

"I have used lots of software appilcations."

"Objection: To utilize my skills in sales."

"Experience: Watered, groomed, and fed the family dog for years."

"Reason for leaving last job: Pushed aside so the vice president's girlfriend could steal my job."

"Previous experience: Self-employed -- a fiasco."

"I am a pit bull when it comes to analysis."

"I am the king of accounts payable reconciliation."

"Work history: Bum. Abandoned belongings and led nomadic lifestyle."

"I like slipping and sliding around behind the counter and controlling the temperature of the food."

"Reason for leaving last job: The owner gave new meaning to the word 'paranoia.' I prefer to elaborate privately."

"Reason for leaving last job: Bounty hunting was outlaw in my state."

"My ruthlessness terrorized the competition and can sometimes offend."

"I love dancing and throwing parties."

"I am quick at typing, about 25 words per minute."

"I am a rabid typist."

"Skills: Operated Pitney Bones machine."

"Special Skills: Speak English."

"Strengths: Ability to meet deadlines while maintaining composer."

"Education: B.A. in Loberal Arts."

"Work Experience: Dealing with customers' conflicts that arouse."

"Education: College, August 1880 - May 1984."

"Experience with: LBM-compatible computers."

"Fortunately because of stress, worked in the cardiac intensive-care ward."

"Typing Speed: 756 wpm."

"Objectives: 10-year goal: Total obliteration of sales and federal income taxes and tax laws."

"ONCE FOCUSED ON AN OBJECTIVE, I BELIEVE MYSELF TO HAVE AN UNDYING LUST FOR SUCCESS WITH ACCURACY AND EFFECIENCY."

"AT ONE POINT IN TIME DURING [John Doe's] 28 YEARS ON THIS PLANET, HE WAS IN AN AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENT; WHICH PUT A FEW YEARS THERAPY, SOME 'ROLLERCOASTER' EMOTIONAL SOUL JOURNEYS, AND A WICKED JOB RESUME, WHICH MOST EMPLOYERS WOULD FROWN UPON, AROUND HIS PRESENT IDENTITY... TEN YEARS 'IN THE RUNNING'. HOWEVER, GIVEN THE PRESENT CASH FLOW, VIA. THE AMERICAN GOVERNMENT, CONSISTENCY, BOTH PHYSICALLY AND EMOTIONALLY, HAVE BEEN REALIZED AND TOUCHED UPON OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS. ALL IN ALL, MY RELATIONSHIP WITH SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS IS GROWING NEAR END IN RESPONSE TO MY ACCUMULATED WORK HISTORY. HENCE, I SEE URGENCY, CLOSURE, SOME FEAR, STRONG DESIRE, AND MATURITY ALL WOVEN INTO THIS EXPRESSION OF ME, THE EMPLOYEE TO YOU, THE EMPLOYER."

"Seek challenges that test my mind and body, since the two are usually inseparable."

"Personal Qualities: Outstanding worker; flexible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year."

"My experience in horticulture is well-rooted."

"Work History: Performed brain wave tests, 1879-1981."

"Extensive background in public accounting. I can also stand on my head!"

"I perform my job with effortless efficiency, effectiveness, efficacy, and expertise."

"Personal: Married 20 years; own a home, along with a friendly mortgage company."

"My intensity and focus are at inordinately high levels, and my ability to complete projects on time is unspeakable."

"Exposure to German for two years, but many words are inappropriate for business."

"Frequent Lecturer: Largest Audience: 1,351. Standing Ovations: 5. Number of Audience Questions: 30."

"Interests: I like to workout in my free time. I enjoy listening to music. I love to shopping in new places."

"Accomplishments: Completed 11 years of high school."

"Excellent memory; strong math aptitude; excellent memory; effective management skills; and very good at math."

"Personal Goal: To hand-build a classic cottage from the ground up using my father-in-law."

To view original article CLICK HERE

Tip Tuesday

6 Ways Hiring Managers are Spotting Résumé Lies

Thirty-eight per cent of U.S. employees have embellished their job responsibilities at some point, and 18 per cent have lied about their skills, according to a CareerBuilder survey. Other common lies surrounded information about employment start and end dates, academic degrees, previous employers and job titles.

Here are six ways employers might be evaluating your résumé in today’s digital world. These are not only good reminders that you shouldn’t lie, but they’ll also help you avoid mistakes that might make hiring managers question your honesty.

1. They’re performing a standard background check. Employers check on things such as work history, residences, dates of employment, etc. Managers look for discrepancies between what the candidate submitted and what the reports reveal.

2. They’re checking for red flags. Unexplained gaps in employment, a reluctance to explain the reason for leaving and unusual periods of self-employment can be a tip-off to false employment history. Since even references can be fake, employers might check the websites of previous employers and use the phone numbers found online for employment verification.

3. They’re using social networking sites. Social networking profiles contain public information that may help employers verify certain information such as a candidate’s work history or education credentials. Both job seekers and employers should be aware of the possible legal ramifications of using social media to screen applicants.

4. They’re testing your skills. Knowing that employers use keyword searching to find and qualify their résumés, applicants may include keywords for all skills required for the job — regardless of whether they have them or not. To confirm any embellishment, employers might ask specific technical questions about the candidate’s stated skills or test the candidate’s computer skills.

5. They’re willing to hear an explanation. Mistakes and misunderstandings do happen. If managers find a discrepancy, they might give the candidate an opportunity to explain. If this happens, have a good explanation for the error.

6. They’re following their intuition. When it comes to the difficult task of hiring a new employee, employers have to trust their intuition and experience. If something doesn’t seem right, they’ll probably follow up on it.

To view original article CLICK HERE

Making It Big Monday

10 types of interviewers you meet

Interviewing for a job comes with several question marks. What do I wear? How should I answer this question? How long will this take? A good job seeker prepares. Take your suit to the cleaners. Think about your answers. Arrive to the interview in plenty of time.
But the one factor that can throw everything off is the type of interviewer you get. When you sit down at that table, the interviewer’s line of questioning and attitude will change what you say and how.

To give you a little extra help, here is a list of 10 types of interviewers you might encounter and how to deal with them.

1. Your best friend
What to expect: Too much of everything. You walk in the door and the handshake is a little too enthusiastic. The smile is too wide. The conversation is too personal. It’s all just too much. This interviewer treats you like a best friend, which is nice, but this style is unnerving because you want to be relaxed without forgetting that you are still on an interview.
What to do: Take this approach as a cue that you can be a little less rigid in the interview because the best friend doesn’t want an uptight employee. Just remind yourself that the interviewer can be more casual than you because you are the one interviewing for the job. Show the interviewer that you’re relaxed, but stay professional and don’t act like you’re actually good friends — stories about wild parties and your personal life don’t belong in the conversation.

2. The interrogator
What to expect: Question after question after question. The interrogator doesn’t come to the interview ready for conversation. He has a list of questions to fire off and you better be ready to answer them. Don’t expect to receive a lot of helpful feedback to gauge how you’re doing. Just expect more questions.
What to do: Watch episodes of “Law & Order” to prepare. You’re going to feel defensive the entire time and might walk away from the interview feeling as if you did something wrong. Once you realize that your interviewer is going to lambast you with questions, just focus on answering them and don’t obsess over reading his reaction. You can try to instigate conversation with a few of your answers, but don’t be surprised if those efforts fail. This interviewer wants to hear your answers and see how you handle yourself, so staying calm is the best approach you can take.

3. The one who has better things to do
What to expect: An interviewer checking her e-mail, looking at you but not paying any attention to what you say. Some people are forced to participate in the interview process even if they have no interest in doing it, so don’t take it personally.
What to do: Answer the questions and be friendly. Try to hold conversations with this distracted interviewer and hope you can win her over — hey, it can’t hurt to have someone who likes you. But this interviewer either made up her mind before she walked into the room or doesn’t intend to give much feedback about you, so do your best but don’t take her disinterest personally.

4. The inappropriate one
What to expect: Cold sweats because you don’t know what to do or say. Every once in a while you will encounter an interviewer who doesn’t understand limits. You might hear an inappropriate joke, a personal story that should be reserved for a therapist or a question that delves too deeply into your life. This interviewer isn’t trying to be inappropriate; he just has no concept of boundaries.
What to do: Stay in your comfort zone. Just because this interviewer is ready to cry on your shoulder, don’t feel pressured into doing the same. Answer what you want to answer and try to steer the conversation back to pertinent topics, such as the job requirements or your qualifications. The interviewer probably won’t realize how off track he is and will follow your lead. Of course, if you feel the questions cross a line, then you want to get out of there ASAP.

5. The rule follower
What to expect: Every interviewing tip you’ve ever been told. Just like some students never imagine skipping a day of school or not doing homework, some interviewers can’t imagine going outside of traditional business interviewing protocol. Boring questions and a stoic demeanour are this interviewer’s best friend.
What to do: Be the best interviewee you can be. Do you know what your biggest weakness is? Do you know how to give the perfect handshake? Do you plan on wearing a conservative shirt under your jacket? You better, because these by-the-book practices will earn you high marks.

6. The joker
What to expect: A comedy routine. Some interviewers have such a good sense of humor that they can’t shut it off even when they need to. You’ll answer a question and you’ll receive a sarcastic comment or a funny aside. This approach isn’t inherently bad, but it can confuse you because you’re not sure if the interview has even begun.
What to do: After a few minutes, you’ll realize that your interviewer is a joker. If this personality bugs you, you probably won’t like working for the company. If it doesn’t bother you too much, then try to play along. Joke back and show that you have a personality. For some interviewers, your résumé proved your qualification; the interview is their chance to see if you fit in with the gang.

7. The weirdo
What to expect: Strange behaviour. We all know odd people, but we often forget that these odd people hold day jobs. And some of them are bosses or hiring managers who conduct interviews. Therefore we shouldn’t be surprised when we’re interviewed by a peculiar person who has macaroni art hanging in her office or who asks, “Who is your favourite member of the A-Team?”
What to do: Just go with it. Unless the weird factor transitions into creepy or offensive, you should just answer the questions and ignore oddities. If the questions and rapport are professional, but the interviewer is working on her origami, stay focused on the interview. She probably has no idea she’s doing anything strange and is paying attention to you.

8. The no-nonsense one
What to expect: Tough love. This interviewer doesn’t believe in sparing your feelings. He’s honest and will waste neither his nor your time.
What to do: Brace yourself. This interviewer will say he’s not sure you’re qualified or that he fears you won’t fit in with everyone. Prove him wrong with evidence that you are perfect for the job. He won’t respect someone who cowers, so be just as firm with him.

9. The blank slate
What to expect: No feedback. The blank slate is an interviewer whose face remains unchanged for the duration of the meeting. Whether it’s a glowing smile or a nonplussed look, you won’t see any hint that the interview is going well.
What to do: Don’t try to break the interviewer’s façade. If you spend the interview looking for clues that you said the right or wrong thing, you’ll be miserable. Answer the questions, be yourself and stay composed. Your instinct will be to think that you’re bombing, but you never know with the blank slate, so don’t let yourself analyze the situation too much.

10. The mafia
What to expect: An intimidating group. Every group interview is an ordeal. The interviewers might be lovely, horrible or a mix, but you still have several sets of eyes staring at you.
What to do: Try to relax. That seems like impossible advice, but it’s the best approach. When you have multiple interviewers, you will see several types of interviewers, so you can’t try to please everyone. Try to be yourself and find the interviewers that seem the most responsive to you. When you see someone nodding in agreement or maintaining eye contact, you’ll feel more at ease and the nerves will begin to disappear.

To view original article CLICK HERE

Top Job Thursday

7 jobs for people who aren’t afraid of confrontation

Are you someone who lives life a little differently than everyone else? Maybe you don’t mind telling somebody they can’t cut in the grocery line. Perhaps you’ve intervened before to settle a friend’s argument. Or maybe you’ve addressed a co-worker who has repeatedly stolen your Diet Coke from the office fridge. Bottom line: You can handle situations where confrontation and stress are certain to occur.

Here are seven jobs for people who aren’t afraid of confrontation. Could you handle one of these jobs?

1. Chefs and head cooks*
Could you handle it? Chefs and head cooks direct kitchen staff and oversee the daily food preparation for their establishment. Most work in tight spaces, with a lot of interaction in a fast-paced environment. Menus can change daily and so can the kitchen team. The customer is always right, even if he sends back the dish you spent 30 minutes preparing. If you can’t handle the heat, this kitchen’s not for you.
Median annual pay: $40,630

2. Emergency medical technicians and paramedics
Could you handle it? EMTs and paramedics respond to medical emergencies first and remain cool under pressure. Rushing to car accidents, responding to 911 calls and providing immediate medical attention are standard in this fast-paced profession. While job training and experience are huge assets to this position, a natural confidence for handling confrontation well is a major plus. Being able to administer help and lead in a chaotic situation could mean the difference between life and death.
Median annual pay: $30,360

3. Human-resources specialists
Could you handle it? Human-resources specialists recruit, screen, interview and place workers at companies. However, they’re best known for handling employee relations and payroll. On a daily basis, you’ll need to manage confrontation, disagreements, ex-employee social-media rants and medical-benefits arguments. Remaining professional and handling the situation calmly are key.
Median annual pay: $52,690

4. Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists
Could you handle it? Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists supervise and assist offenders in rehabilitation, working toward a normal, crime-free life. You can help those you work with make positive changes in their lives, and you will need the attitude and ability to enforce rules and expectations. Past offenders may come with a lot of baggage, and you’ll need to inspire them to commit to a new way of life.
Median annual pay: $47,200

5. Registered nurses
Could you handle it? Aside from providing and organizing health care for patients, registered nurses also offer emotional support to patients and their families. Being able to comfort, console and cheer on patients and their loved ones while also controlling chaotic situations is crucial. Emotions will run high, and handling confrontation well makes the patients’, families’ and the nurse’s experience easier.
Median annual pay: $64,690

6. Social workers
Could you handle it? Direct-service social workers help people work through their everyday life issues, while clinical social workers treat mental, behavioral and emotional issues. Both types interact with people who are at high stress levels and dealing with overwhelming issues. Handling confrontation is necessary for patients to progress. Addressing deeper issues with clients starts with confronting their behavioral issues and problem-solving.
Median annual pay: $42,480

7. Umpires, referees and other sports officials
Could you handle it? Umpires and referees preside over competitive athletic events and decide penalties for rule violations. Confrontation will come from all directions: athletes, coaches, fans and spectators will vocalize their opinions on how the game is being officiated. Angry spectators yelling, parents screaming and athletes and coaches disputing your call will be a part of every game, so handling confrontation and remaining fair is necessary.
Median annual pay: $22,480

To view original article CLICK HERE

Witty Wednesday

10 dumbest resume blunders

These gems come from comments on Fortune’s Ask Annie column:

1. “An applicant ghosted a headshot as the background to her resume.”

2. Why Interested in Position?: “to keep my parole officer from putting back me in jail”

3. The objective on one recent resume I received stated that the applicant wished to pursue a challenging account executive position with our rival firm.

4. Objective: “career on the Information Supper Highway”

5. Experience: “Stalking, shipping & receiving”

6. “My duties included cleaning the restrooms and seating the customers.”

7. 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.

8. A resume… was printed on the back of the person’s current employer’s letterhead.

9. One resume that came across my desk stated how the individual had won a contest for building toothpick bridges in middle school.

10. A resume… had several grease stains and a smudge of chocolate on it.

11. Other Interests: “Playing with my two dogs (They actually belong to my wife but I love the dogs more than my wife)”.

To read more blunders CLICK HERE

Tip Tuesday

Simple guidelines for writing a stellar résumé

Your résumé should communicate vital information to a potential employer, but how do you know if yours is up to par and will compete with other résumés?
In their new book, “Expert Résumés for Managers and Executives,” authors Wendy Enelow and Louise Kursmark explain that strict rules for writing résumés don’t really exist, but job seekers should consider some simple standards that most employers have come to expect. Here are some of Enelow and Kursmark’s tips:
Content standards

• Writing style: Always write in the active, not passive, voice.
• Phrases to avoid: Do not use “responsible for” or “duties included,” which are passive.
• Résumé style: Organize your résumé chronologically, functionally or both.
• Résumé formats: Use paragraphs, bullets or both.
• Email address and URL: Include your email address and URL at the top of your résumé.

Presentation standards

• Font: Use a clean, conservative, easy-to-read font. Some suggestions include Tahoma, Arial, Krone, Soutane, CG Omega, Century Gothic or Gill Sans.
• Type size: Ten- to 12-point fonts are generally easy to read.
• Page length: One to two pages is usually enough.
• Paper color: Use white, ivory or gray paper.
• Graphics: Entry-level or midlevel job seekers may use graphics to enhance their résumés; senior or executive job seekers should avoid them.
• White space: Leave plenty of white space to ensure readability.

Accuracy and perfection

• “Your résumé must be well-written, visually pleasing and free of any errors, typographical mistakes, misspellings and the like,” Enelow and Kursmark say. “Carefully proofread your résumé a minimum of three times, and then have two or three other people also proofread it.”

“Consider your résumé an example of the quality of work you will produce on a company’s behalf,” say Enelow and Kursmark say. “Take the time to make sure that your résumé is perfect in all the details that make a difference to those who read it.”

To view the original article CLICK HERE

Making It Big Monday

Focus résumé on your results, not daily tasks

What seems more interesting: a laundry list of all the menial daily tasks and functions you performed at each and every job or well-written action statements illustrating the impact of your accomplishments?

For example, a receptionist or executive assistant résumé may state ”I answered the phones” or “Monitored and managed more than 1,500 weekly telephone calls from customers, vendors, media, and contractors for 750 staff members for largest architectural firm in New Jersey.”

An example for a sales manager may be: ”Hired, managed and trained sales representatives” or ”Recruited, hired, managed, mentored and motivated more than 120 sales representatives to develop customer service and sales skills resulting in more than $1.5 million in sales revenue.”

An interview-landing résumé doesn’t just tell what you did or know how to do (task-oriented), it illustrates how well you did those things (accomplishment oriented). Recruiters and hiring managers want to know and see hard-core facts, figures and numbers. This type of information should be indicative of your entire career, not just job by job.

From your résumé, the hiring manager already has a general idea of the tasks and responsibilities involved in the jobs you have held. What he or she wants to know is how your skills and experience impacted the bottom line for the company. The recruiting manager wants to know what the job seeker has done to enhance operations, boost revenues, bolster profits, decrease operating costs, improve business processes, save time, increase productivity and/or advance technologies.

An accomplishment-oriented résumé is what sells the reader on your personal and professional value. Rather than a laundry list of daily duties, functions and job responsibilities, this type of résumé demonstrates, in writing, how your expertise in doing those tasks benefited the company.
An easy formula for this is AARQ (“Ark”):

• Action — What was the action you took or initiated to make a difference in results?
• Accomplishments & Results — What did your actions accomplish at the end of the project, year, etc.?
• Quantify — Now incorporate the numbers and statistics into your story by quantifying the resulting impact on the company.

Here’s an example from a recent client:

• What action did you take? Managed revenue budget.
• What was the result of this action? Exceeded revenue goals and increased revenue.
• Can you quantify the action or result? Managed $77 million revenue budget, exceeded revenue goals, increased revenue by 38 per cent.

You then take all of that and put it on your résumé as such:

• Managed $77 million revenue budget for third party marketing products, continually exceeded revenue goals, and steered 38 percent revenue growth.

It can be really easy to bolster your résumé by turning your tasks into bottom-line driven, powerful achievements that will catch the reader’s attention. A company is concerned with their bottom line so speak their language and illustrate your experience as it relates to them. Use your résumé as a tool to convey your value to the prospective employing company and expect more interviews in the future.

To view original article CLICK HERE

Top Job Thursday

10 Best-Paid Skilled Labor Jobs

 

Skilled labor jobs can pay well, even very well. Yet, many young people feel the pressure to get a college degree and don't consider hands-on labor. Fortunately, a growing movement hopes to get younger workers enthused about building, fixing, and installing.
Mike Rowe of the popular TV series "Dirty Jobs" says, "Tradesmen need fans, regular people who understand the magnitude of their work, the impact of their chosen profession, and the importance of their skill." What this country needs, according to Rowe are more people willing to take the time to master heating and air-conditioning, electricity, creating solid foundations, smooth roads, and functional plumbing.

Ross Porter, President of IRWIN Tools based in Huntersville, North Carolina asserts, "A job in a skilled trade is a solid, decent and admirable way to support a family. To work with one's hands-to build something-always has been and always should be commendable."
Are you interested in earning high pay while working with your hands? Here's a list of the top 10 most highly-paid jobs that have the most potential for growth, according to PayScale.

1. Wind Turbine Technician
Average Salary: $67,500 per year
Wind turbine service technicians, also called wind techs, are responsible for repairing and maintaining the complicated machinery inside wind turbines. Their work can be as simple as changing light bulbs or as complex as repairing a circuit board. The field is so new there isn't an official certification track yet, however according to the American Wind Energy Association, the amount of energy provided by wind turbines grew by 39 percent each year between 2004 to 2009. Get ready to be blown away by your pay. With five to eight years of experience some techs can earn over $84,000 per year.

• Find turbine technician jobs

2. Plumber
Average Salary: $51,600 per year
This career is about much more than fixing leaky toilets. Plumbers install and repair the water, waste disposal, drainage, and gas systems in residential, commercial and industrial buildings using a variety of materials from copper to cast-iron. They must be able to follow building plans or blueprints and instructions from supervisors, lay out the job, and work efficiently with materials and tools. There's room for creativity as plumbers have become more involved in the design process of water and waste systems. No wonder highly-skilled professionals can take home over $92,000 per year.

• Find plumber jobs
  

3. HVAC Controls Technician
Average Salary: $51,000 per year
Without workers skilled in the science of heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems, we wouldn't be able to control the temperature, humidity, and the total air quality in residential, commercial, industrial, and other buildings. They also help with the storage and transportation of food, medicine, and other perishable items. Many HVAC technicians will specialize in either installation or maintenance and repair, but must first train to do both. High school students interested in this career should take courses in shop, math, mechanical drawing, applied physics and chemistry, electronics, blueprint reading, and computer applications.

• Find HVAC technician jobs

4. Elevator Mechanic
Average Salary: $49,900 per year
Mechanics are responsible for assembling, installing, maintaining and replacing elevators, escalators, chairlifts, dumbwaiters and moving walkways in new and old buildings. They must complete a four-year apprenticeship offered by local joint educational committees representing the employers and the union-the International Union of Elevator Constructors. The good news is that job prospects and salaries are looking up in this industry. Top earners make about $96,700 with over five years experience.

• Find elevator mechanic jobs

5. Maintenance Supervisor
Average Salary: $48,800 per year
You'll find maintenance and repair workers in almost every industry, and with them comes their supervisor. Responsibilities include supervising, troubleshooting and project management of machines, mechanical equipment, buildings, plumbing, electrical, and air-conditioning and heating systems. Many supervisors get their start right out of high school. Courses in mechanical drawing, electricity, woodworking, blueprint reading, science, mathematics, and computers are useful and education at a technical college is an important part of training.

• Find maintenance supervisor jobs

6. Construction and Building Inspector
Average Salary: $48,000 per year
Got an opinion on those potholes on the interstate? How about your neighbor's sloping porch? If so, a career as an inspector is right up your alley. You'll examine buildings, highways and streets, sewer and water systems, dams, bridges, and other structures for compliance with building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications. About 44 percent of inspectors worked for local governments but plenty of home inspectors are self-employed and make their own hours.

• Find building inspector jobs

7. Project Supervisor, Construction
Average Salary: $46,600 per year
Independent types who want to manage a team and a project yet still work for themselves will be in good company as the BLS finds over half of construction supervisors are self-employed. Far from working alone, managers work with owners, engineers, architects, and others to coordinate and supervise construction from the concept through final build,the project gets completed on time and within budget.

• Find construction supervisor jobs

8. Bricklayer
Average Salary: $46,200 per year
Talk about staying power: the buildings, fences, roads and footpaths crafted by brickmasons, blockmasons, and stonemasons often outlast the individual because of the durability of concrete, stone and brick. The work itself ranges from simple masonry on walkways to complex installations of exteriors on a highrises. Training often happens on the job as an assistant to carry materials, move scaffolding and mix mortar. Learning restoration skills such as cleaning and pointing are essential to becoming a full-fledged craftsman. Registered apprenticeship programs usually last between three and four years.

• Find bricklayer jobs

9. Refrigeration Mechanic
Average Salary: $45,600 per year
You won't have to worry about becoming a desk jockey if you pursue a career as a refrigeration mechanic. Your "office" can be in any number of places including homes, stores, hospitals or factories that need installation, service, and repair of refrigerating systems. On the job, mechanics are required to read blueprints, design specifications, and manufacturers' instructions to install motors, compressors, condensing units, evaporators, piping, and other components. Systems must also be charged with refrigerant and checked for proper operation and leaks.

• Find refrigeration mechanic jobs

10. Biomedical Equipment Technician (BMET)
Average Salary: $45,500 per year
If you are fascinated by how things work, this could be the job for you. BMETs maintain, adjust, and repair every kind of healthcare machinery from patient monitors and defibrillators, to X-rays, electric wheelchairs and eye testing equipment. With the strength of the healthcare industry, this is a great occupation to pursue. Be prepared to head back to school if you want to work in this field. Employers generally prefer applicants with an associate's degree in biomedical equipment technology or engineering. Go for a four-year degree if you want to advance.

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Witty Wednesday

Practical and Funny Student Survival Kits

Funny student survival kits can be a good gag gift and may actually serve a practical purpose for those going to grade school, middle or high school, and possibly college students. In this article, I’d like to share some of the items you’ll want to add to your kit, some of which will be practical, and others which might not be quite as practical. These are just suggestions, so you might want to change yours up a little and make it tailored for the particular student you have in mind.

I’ll break it down into more practical items and those that are unique and unusual. To start off, we’ll focus on the legit items you might want to include as you put together the homemade package on your own.

Practical School Survival Kits

Pencils and Pens: This one belongs in any kit you could possibly make, so be sure to include some in the practical and funny student survival kits you make up for your friends or children. You will always find a use for extra writing utensils.

Extra Paper/Notebooks: You need paper to take notes, type out assignments, and just about anything else you can imagine. Be sure to have loose paper and notebooks on hand for when you need it. This one is very practical and should always be included, even if you’re making one for a joke.

Planners: A student planner or day planner is a great way to get organized. It can help teach kids or even college students the power of organization. It’s a very practical item to add, and can be a funny addition if the student is notoriously unorganized.

Crayons and Markers: For elementary school especially, having some crayons and markers can be very important and needed to complete art projects and other homework assignments. A funny student survival kit, perhaps for a college student, could even have some little kids crayons and stickers included.

Pencil Sharpener: If you have a small handheld sharpener, you won’t need to raise your hand and ask your teacher for permission to use the one in the front of the room. It will be a good thing for the teacher as well, since it will reduce the distractions in the classroom.

Basic Medicine: Assuming the student is old enough to be responsible with it, basic cold medication, aspirin or ibuprofen, and antacid can come in handy for any child who feels under the weather, but cannot or will not leave for the day.

Face Wipes: For teenagers especially, acne is a problem. By keeping facial wipes on hand in the kit, the teen can make sure to keep their pores clean during the day, to reduce acne.

Oral Care Items: Dental floss and a toothbrush can be great items to include and your dentist will thank you for it. These are very practical items to include and will probably get used at some point during the school year.

Hand Sanitizer: Kids get into the nastiest things. Germs also are spread by the hands, causing sickness, so be sure to include some sanitizer in the college student survival kit, or even one made for an elementary age kid.

Breath Mints: Bad breath happens, especially after eating lunch, so be sure to include something that can reduce the stinky breath instances your child might face. Kids are relentless and can be mean, so this item should be included.

Hygiene Supplies: Combs, deodorant and other items can be included to help complete the kit. This one is pretty practical and will serve a very a useful purpose when included in the package.

Toilet Paper/Facial Tissue: This will allow the child to blow their nose without having to go to the bathroom to get TP or to the front of the room where the Kleenex are stored.

Funny College Student Survival Kits

Most of the items on this list are designed for gag purposes, but some could be used in legit kits for grade school or older kids as well.

Ear Plugs: If you want to tune out your instructors, you’ll want to have some ear plugs included, so you don’t have to hear the lecture. Hopefully they don’t actually use them and actually pay attention to their teachers and instructors.

Clean Underwear: Your mother (and Bill Cosby) always said that if you were in an accident, they hoped you’d have on clean underwear. Be sure to include at least one pair when you put together your homemade college survival kit for your child.

Whoopie Cushion: Other various gag items can also be included in a funny college student survival kit, and could be included for younger kids as well. Various gag items, like itch powder or fake poop could also be included in the package.

Laundry Soap: Welcome to the world of washing your own clothes!

Do Not Disturb Sign: For when they have lots of homework to do, or when they have company over, like a boyfriend or girlfriend, and don’t want their dorm roommate to come barging in. This one actually is pretty practical, when you stop and think about it.

Ramen Noodles: Every college student in the world seems to practically live on these things because they are cheap and super easy to make, even for the most culinary challenged kids.

Apple: An apple a day for the teacher sure won’t hurt, especially when grades get to be even more important, like in high school and especially in college.

Stress Ball: College will stress out anyone. The freshman fifteen is commonly linked to stress, although I’m sure too many trips for fast food also contribute. A stress ball can be included as a joke, but actually could end up getting used.

Condoms: You’ll want to keep this one limited to funny college survival kits, when you are dealing with adults and not kids.

A funny students survival kit can be good for a laugh, but it can also serve a practical purpose.

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Tip Tuesday

Your First Year of College: 25 Strategies and Tips to Help You Survive and Thrive Your Freshman Year and Beyond

Perhaps you were class president in high school. Or perhaps you were a member of the honor society. You could have graduated in the top percentile of your graduating class; perhaps you were even valedictorian. Maybe your were in the honors program or the International Baccalaureate program. Actually, it doesn't really matter what you did in high school as you make the transition to college. High school success (or lack of it) doesn't automatically apply to college.

You start college with a clean academic slate, along with a lot of independence and a myriad of critical decisions as you begin the transition into adulthood. The decisions that you make and the actions you take during this first year of college will have a major impact on the rest of your college experience.

According to American College Testing (ACT), one in every four college students leaves before completing their sophomore year - and nearly half of all freshmen will either drop out before obtaining a degree or complete their college education elsewhere.

But wait! This article is not meant to scare you or take away any of the joy, excitement, and anticipation you feel about going to college. Quite the opposite. This article is all about the things you need to do to not only survive your first year of college, but to thrive in college. And many of the tools, skills, and habits you develop through this article can not only be used to help you succeed in college, but in your future career as well.

The first few weeks on campus are extremely critical for all new students. It is during this time that you make critical decisions that will have an effect on the rest of your life. Some of these 25 tips are critical during your first weeks, while the others are meant for longer-term guidance and survival. Whatever you do, be sure to be yourself and try to enjoy your college experience as much as possible. Expect to feel some stress and homesickness, but don't let these issues wear you down.

1. Go to all orientations. Do you really need to go on yet another campus tour? Yes. The faster you learn your way around campus -- and around all the red tape -- the more at ease you'll feel and the better prepared you'll be when issues arise.
2. Get to know your roommate and others in your residence hall. The people you live with, most of whom are going through similar experiences and emotions, are your main safety net -- not only this year, but for all your years. You may change roommates after the first semester or you may stay roommates for all four years -- just take the time to get to know your fellow first-year students.
3. Get Organized. In high school, the teachers tended to lead you through all the homework and due dates. In college, the professors post the assignments -- often for the entire semester -- and expect you to be prepared. Buy an organizer, a PDA, a big wall calendar -- whatever it takes for you to know when assignments are due.
4. Find the ideal place for you to study. It may be your dorm room or a cozy corner of the library, but find a place that works best for you to get your work done -- while avoiding as many distractions as possible.
5. Go to class. Obvious, right? Maybe, but sleeping in and skipping that 8 am class will be tempting at times. Avoid the temptation. Besides learning the material by attending classes, you'll also receive vital information from the professors about what to expect on tests, changes in due dates, etc.
6. Become an expert on course requirements and due dates. Professors spend hours and hours preparing course syllabi and calendars so that you will know exactly what is expected of you -- and when. One of the lamest excuses a student can give a professor: "I didn't know it was due today."
7. Meet with your professors. Speaking as a professor, I can assure you there are only upsides to getting to know your professors, especially if later in the semester you run into some snags. Professors schedule office hours for the sole purpose of meeting with students -- take advantage of that time.
8. Get to know your academic adviser. This is the person who will help you with course conflicts, adding or dropping courses, scheduling of classes for future semesters, deciding on majors and minors. This person is a key resource for you -- and should be the person you turn to with any academic issues or conflicts. And don't be afraid of requesting another adviser if you don't click with the one first assigned to you.
9. Seek a balance. College life is a mixture of social and academic happenings. Don't tip the balance too far in either direction. One of my favorite former students always used to say her motto was to "study hard so she could play hard."
10. Get involved on campus. A big problem for a lot of new students is a combination of homesickness and a feeling of not quite belonging. A solution? Consider joining a select group -- and be careful not to go overboard -- of student organizations, clubs, sororities or fraternities, or sports teams. You'll make new friends, learn new skills, and feel more connected to your school.
11. Strive for good grades. Another obvious one here, right? Remember the words of the opening paragraph; while good grades could have come naturally to you in high school, you will have to earn them in college -- and that means setting some goals for yourself and then making sure you work as hard as you can to achieve them.
12. Take advantage of the study resources on campus. Just about all colleges have learning labs and tutors available. If you're having some troubles, these resources are another tool available to you. Another idea: form study groups.
13. Make time for you. Be sure you set aside some time and activities that help you relax and take the stress out of your day or week. Whether it's enlisting yoga techniques, watching your favorite television shows, or writing in a journal, be good to yourself.
14. Don't feel pressured to make a hasty decision about a career or a major. It doesn't matter if it seems as though everyone else seems to know what they're doing with their lives -- believe me, they don't -- college is the time for you to really discover who you are, what you enjoy doing, what you're good at, and what you want to be. It's not a race; take your time and enjoy exploring your options.
15. Take responsibility for yourself and your actions. Don't look to place the blame on others for your mistakes; own up to them and move on. Being an adult means taking responsibility for everything that happens to you.
16. Make connections with students in your classes. One of my best students said his technique in the first week of classes was to meet at least one new person in each of his classes. It expanded his network of friends -- and was a crucial resource at times when he had to miss a class.
17. Find the Career Services Office. Regardless of whether you are entering college as undeclared or have your entire future mapped out, seek out the wonderful professionals in your college's career services office and get started on planning, preparing, and acting on your future.
18. Don't procrastinate; prioritize your life. It may have been easy in high school to wait until the last minute to complete an assignment and still get a good grade, but that kind of stuff will not work for you in college. Give yourself deadlines -- and stick to them.
19. Stay healthy/Eat Right. A lot of problems first-year students face can be traced back to an illness that kept them away from classes for an extended period of time that led to a downward spiraling effect. Get enough sleep, take your vitamins, and eat right. If you haven't heard the jokes about college food, you soon will. And without mom or dad there to serve you a balanced meal, you may be tempted to go for those extra fries or cookies. Stay healthy and avoid the dreaded extra "Freshman 15" pounds by sticking to a balanced diet.
20. Learn to cope with homesickness. It's only natural that there will be times when you miss your family, even if you were one of those kids who couldn't wait to get away. Find a way to deal with those feelings, such as making a phone call or sending some email home.
21. Stay on campus as much as possible. Whether it's homesickness, a job, or a boyfriend or girlfriend from home, try not to leave campus too soon or too often. The more time you spend on getting to know the campus and your new friends, the more you'll feel at home at school. And why not take advantage of all the cultural and social events that happen on campus?
22. Seek professional help when you need it. Most colleges have health and counseling centers. If you're sick or feeling isolated or depressed, please take advantage of the many services these offices provide students. You don't have to face these issues by yourself.
23. Keep track of your money. If you've never had to create a budget, now is the time to do so. Find ways to stretch your money - and as best you can, avoid all those credit card solicitations  you'll soon be receiving. The average credit card debt of college grads is staggering.
24. Don't cut corners. College is all about learning. If you procrastinate and cram, you may still do well on tests, but you'll learn very little. Even worse, don't cheat on term papers or tests.
25. Be prepared to feel overwhelmed. There's a lot going in your life right now. Expect to have moments where it seems a bit too much. As one student says, be prepared to feel completely unprepared. The trick is knowing that you're not the only one feeling that way.

Final Words of Advice for First-Year College Students

You've done all the prep work -- you've gotten good grades in high school, scored well on a standardized test, and been accepted into the college you want to attend -- so enjoy all your hard work while laying the groundwork for a successful college career. Don't be a statistic; be determined to make it through your freshman year -- and beyond. Take advantage of your network of new friends and professors, have fun while learning as much as you can, and get the most out of your college experience.

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Making It Big Monday

10 Habits of Very Successful College Students

 

They attend class. This might sound trite and obvious. Some classes are boring. Some professors are unexciting, or obnoxious. Some classes are at an inconvenient time. Research on college students indicates that higher class attendance correlates with higher grades, earlier completion of degrees and simply staying at the university instead of dropping or flunking out. And since they're there, successful students take notes and participate.

They sit in front. It's easier to hear, easier to pay attention and easier to "read" the instructor's cues as to what information is important. Listening is one of the most important, yet least recognized, skills necessary for learning from lectures. Most students don't naturally listen in the way that the lecture situation requires. To listen effectively, you must "engage" the instructor - that is, create an internal conversation between you and your instructors as they are lecturing. This includes actively anticipating and questioning what the lecturer says, and sorting or categorizing the information being presented. Engaging the instructor is easier if you sit where you can see and hear clearly.

They attend office hours, Most faculty members have a diversified background above and beyond the course materials. They are a valuable resource to stimulate new ideas. They also are excellent resources for networking. The time spent in one-to-one conversation with a faculty member can influence the choice of a major or a career.

They study on schedule. Studies show that two hours of study for each hour of class time is about right. Managing oneself properly by setting aside blocks of time and a good spot with little or no distractions on a weekly basis is ideal. It is much easier to remain current with a class than to rush to catch up in the days before an exam.

They choose courses wisely. Picking a course in a subject you are interested in, or one taught by an instructor you like adds additional motivation which usually translates to better grades and enjoyment. College life is hard enough without adding the additional stress of classes and instructors you dislike.

They exercise. Good cardiovascular fitness translates into alertness, good attention span, better sleep and more energy. In order to maintain a healthy lifestyle you should be engaging in 20 minutes of aerobic activity 3 times a week.

They are involved in campus life. Your college or university is full of opportunities to broaden your horizons. Join an organization. Every campus has officially recognized groups where like minded people come together to pursue similar interests. Make friends and have fun at the same time.

They eat healthy. Our bodies are complicated biological machines. They need proper fuel to keep them running at peak efficiency. A good diet is a balanced one — lots of different foods and not too much of any one food. That way you get all the nutrients that you need. Many countries have guidelines for healthy diets, including in some cases recommended daily amounts of specific nutrients. However, it is emphasized that these guidelines are for healthy individuals. not for those with disease symptoms or food allergies or intolerances. These people should consult a dietitian or physician.

They drink moderately or not at all. Overdoing it only leads to headaches, upset stomach, acting foolishly and the chance of harming yourself or someone else, slowing your brain activity, affecting your alertness, coordination and reaction time. Until more is known about how alcohol affects your health, your best bet — if you choose to drink — is to drink in moderation. Generally, moderation means no more than one drink a day for women and no more than two drinks a day for men. Because of their body chemistry and composition, women are more sensitive to alcohol than men are.

They have fun. All work and no play leads to stress which inhibits academic performance. Reward yourself for your good study habits with a bit of fun.

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Top Job Thursday

Ten Best Green Jobs for the Next Decade

Massive investments in clean energy promise to keep farmers, urban planners, and green-tech entrepreneurs in business for the next decade. This guide to sustainability focused career paths will help solar-charge your work life.

"It's time to bail out the people and the planet," says Van Jones, author of The Green Collar Economy: How One Solution Can Fix Our Two Biggest Problems. We agree, and this guide to to sustainability-focused career paths will help retrofit and solar-charge your work life.

Farmer
America has only two million farmers, and their average age is 55. Since sustainable agriculture requires small-scale, local, organic methods rather than petroleum-based machines and fertilizers, there is a huge need for more farmers -- up to tens of millions of them, according to food guru Michael Pollan. Modern farmers are small businesspeople who must be as skilled in heirloom genetics as marketing.
Schools: University of Vermont: Center for Sustainable Agriculture; Stone Barns Center For Food & Agriculture in New York State; University of Oklahoma: Kerr Center for Sustainable Agriculture; Evergreen State College: degree in Sustainable Agriculture.
Related careers: urban gardener; farmers market and CSA coordinator; artisanal cheesemakers; and other food producers.

Forester
Modern forestry is a complex combination of international project finance, conservation and development. According to the World Bank, a staggering 1.6 billion people depend on the forest for their livelihoods. Foresters help local people transition from slash-and-burn to silviculture--teaching cultivation of higher-value, faster-growing species for fruit, medicine or timber, for example while carefully documenting the impact on the environment. Deforestation, which causes around a quarter of all global warming, is also likely to be a leading source of carbon credits worth tens of billions of dollars.
Schools: Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies; Duke University: Nicholas School of the Environment; University of Michigan: School of Natural Resources & Environment.
Companies/organizations: The Nature Conservancy; New Forests Inc.

Solar Power Installer
Making and installing solar power systems already accounts for some 770,000 jobs globally. Installing solar-thermal water heaters and rooftop photovoltaic cells is a relatively high-paying job--$15 to $35 an hour--for those with construction skills. And opportunities are available all over the United States, wherever the sun shines. Currently over 3,400 companies in the solar energy sector employ 25,000 to 35,000 workers. The Solar Energy Industries Association predicts an increase to over 110,000 jobs by 2016 -- even more if anticipated tax credits are accelerated.
Companies: Akeena Solar; Sungevity; Sunpower; Full list at SEIA.org.

Energy Efficiency Builder
Buildings account for up to 48 percent of US energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. LEED, the major green building certification, has over 43,000 accredited professionals. But the cutting edge in efficient buildings goes far beyond LEED. Buildings constructed according to Passivhaus and MINERGIE-P standards in Germany and Switzerland, respectively, use between 75% and 95% less heat energy than a similar building constructed to the latest codes in the US. Greening the US building stock will take not only skilled architects and engineers, but a workforce of retrofitters who can use spray foam insulation and storm windows to massively improve the R-value (thermal resistance) of the draftiest old houses. A study by the Apollo Alliance recommended an $89.9 billion investment in financing to create 827,260 jobs in green buildings -- an initiative supported by the Obama stimulus package, which specifically mentions energy retrofits.
Schools: Arizona State University School of Architecture: Energy Performance Climate-Responsive Architecture; University of Michigan: Alfred A. Taubman College of Architecture + Urban Planning; The Earth Institute at Columbia University.

Wind Turbine Fabricator
Wind is the leading and fastest-growing source of alternative energy with over 300,000 jobs worldwide. Turbines are 90% metal by weight, creating an opportunity for autoworkers and other manufacturers to repurpose their skills. According to the American Wind Energy Association, the industry currently employs some 50,000 Americans and added 10,000 new jobs in 2007. Their job board is an excellent place to start looking for opportunities.
Companies: Vestas; Siemens; GE Energy.

Conservation Biologist
The granddaddy of diversity, E.O. Wilson, famously called conservation biology -- a discipline with a deadline. The urgent quest to preserve the integrity of ecosystems around the world -- and to quantify the value of -- ecosystems services -- leads to opportunities in teaching, research and fieldwork for government, nonprofits, and private companies. The forthcoming economic stimulus package from the Obama administration offers the prospect of increased federal support for science and research.
Schools: Center for Conservation Biology at the University of Washington and the Center for Conservation Biology at Stanford University. At the small College of the Atlantic every student gets his or her degree in human ecology; it's been called the most sustainable college or university in the world.

Green MBA and Entrepreneur
The concept of the triple bottom line has migrated from the margins to the mainstream of the business world. A recent report by the U.S. Conference of Mayors, Mayors Climate Protection Center found that business services like legal, research and consulting account for the majority of all green jobs -- over 400,000. This includes everything from marketing to the LOHAS (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability) segment, to serving as a VP of sustainability within a large company, to piloting a green startup like Method or Recyclebank.
Schools: Stanford School of Business; San Francisco's Presidio School of Management; Leeds School of Business; University of Colorado at Boulder -- Deming Center for Entrepreneurship; the Bainbridge Graduate Institute in Wash.

Recycler
The total number of recycling jobs in the United States is at more than 1 million, according to recent reports (PDF, right click to save). Although the market for paper and plastic has slowed down recently due to the economic downturn, demand for steel is still strong -- 42 percent of output came from scrap in 2006 -- and recycling remains the economical alternative to high disposal fees. Worldwide more than 200,000 people work in secondary steel production, and the US is a major center of production. New laws and regulations are also creating a need for specialized companies that can close the loop by recycling and repurposing e-waste, clothing, plastic bags, construction waste, and other materials.
Companies: Rumpke; Greenstar North America.

Sustainability Systems Developer
The green economy needs a cadre of specialized software developers and engineers who design, build, and maintain the networks of sensors and stochastic modeling that underpin wind farms, smart energy grids, congestion pricing and other systems substituting intelligence for natural resources. Coders with experience using large scale enterprise resource planning have an edge here, as well as developers familiar with open source and web 2.0 applications.
Companies: IBM, V2Green, WindLogics

Urban Planner
Urban and regional planning is a linchpin of the quest to lower America's carbon footprint. Strengthening mass transit systems, limiting sprawl, encouraging use of bicycles and deemphasizing cars is only part of the job. Equally important is contingency planning, as floods, heat waves and garbage creep become increasingly common problems for metropolises. Employment in this sector is projected to grow 15 percent by 2016, and the jobs are mainly in local governments, which make them a slightly safer bet for the downturn.

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Witty Wednesday

Ten Funny Gaffs from Real Job Application Forms

'I procrastinate, especially when the task is unpleasant.'

'Personal interests: donating blood. Fourteen gallons so far.'

'As indicted, I have over five years of analyzing investments.'

'Instrumental in ruining entire operation for a Midwest chainstore.'

'Note: Please don't misconstrue my 14 jobs as ' job-hopping' . I have never quit a job.'

'Marital status: often. Children: various.'

'Reason for leaving last job: They insisted that all employees get to work by 8:45 am every morning. I couldn't work under those conditions.'

'The company made me a scapegoat, just like my three previous employers.

'Finished eighth in my class of ten.'

'References: none. I've left a path of destruction behind me.'

To view original article CLICK HERE

Tip Tuesday

How to Be Positive When Dealing with Negative People

Remember: you can control how you feel. Eleanor Roosevelt once said, "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." I use that quote when I'm around people who make me feel negative or upset and I change it around a little bit to say, "No one can make me feel [angry/negative/upset/etc.] without my consent." It can be so hard to realize this in the heat of an unpleasant encounter, but we always, always have the option to choose the mindset we want to have. No matter what other people say or do or even how they try to make us feel, we have the power to choose the way we look at situations and, importantly, how we react to them.

Value your own thoughts and emotions. The more you value yourself, your thoughts, and emotions, the less someone else can control and manipulate you to feel a certain way. Personally, the older I get and the more I learn about life and myself, the more confident I feel and the less I'm worried about what other people say/do/think. Yes, to some extent I care, but I try to focus on the opinions, words, and actions of those who have a positive effect on my life and worry little about those who bring negativity into my life.

Limit your interactions when possible. You have to do what you can to limit your interactions with the people that don't bring you happiness and positivity. Often there are events and functions you don't have to attend and you should avoid those when possible (but don't let those situations create battles between you and your other friends/family member...it's essential to be aware of others' feelings too). If there are things you absolutely can't get out of, you have to go into them with a positive attitude.  

Worry only about yourself and what you're doing. When it comes down to it, the only person you have to worry about is YOU. You don't have to worry about what negative people say/think/do. You have to be happy with yourself and you cannot waste time worrying about them or letting them bring you down. No matter how much you might care about the other people in your life, the only person you can really control is yourself so, when faced with negative people, focus on what you can do to make your experience better. You cannot worry about them because, no matter how much you might want to, you might not be able to change their attitudes. Instead, focus on yourself.  

Make the choice to be positive. Hard as it is sometimes, positivity is always an option. You can choose to let others bring you down or you can choose to bring yourself up. Every time you are with a negative person, you have the choice to view him/her in a positive light. It won't be easy, but it's always an option. The more I practice being positive on a daily basis and make it an active choice in my life, the easier I find that it is to cope with negative people and situations. I find myself much more willing to be positive in spite of others' negativity -- and you can do that too!

Talk to an objective party. If you're seriously struggling with a situation in which someone's negativity is bringing you down, I'd highly recommend talking to a therapist (or, if that's not an option, a close friend that's removed from the situation). Being able to express yourself to a third party is really crucial in this situation because you don't want to take your feelings out on the negative person or others around you. Seeing a therapist has really helped me to deal with some of the people and issues in my life that I can't completely eliminate.

To view original article CLICK HERE