Building your resume, based on a resume outline will give it structure and flow... it provides an outline of all the things you should include in your resume.
A resume is one of the most important documents you will ever create
First you have to decide on a particular format for your resume. The two main formats in use today are chronological and functional format. Which one is best to use will depend greatly on your situation.
To build your resume you can use free resume forms located on the web. This can provide you with directions if you are having trouble building your resume.
A sample resume outline would include the following sections:
The Heading
Your resume should start with the heading. You can list your basic details so the employer can contact you. You can include your name, address, telephone number and e-mail address.
NAME
ADDRESS
PHONE NUMBER
EMAIL ADDRESS
Job Objective
This is an optional section of your resume outline. Here you can tell readers what the objective of your resume is and what you are looking for.
Example:
Entry-level accounting position with medium to large public accounting firm.
The "Body" is the largest section of your resume outline This is where you can enter details about your education, work experience and additional information. The body contains:
Education
Here you can list your educational background.
Educational Background Format: College, Degree, Major, Honors, Relevant Courses
Sample Education Section: Drexel University BA Educational Leadership, May 2000
If you have a college education, do not list your high school information. You can also list any honors for academic excellence in this section of your resume outline.
If you are a graduating senior or looking for an internship, you can add a relevant courses section to your resume outline.
Employment History
This is an important part of the resume. Here you can list your previous employment history. If you are using a chronological resume format, you should list the most recent job positions first on your resume outline.
Example:
Drug Emporium, Wayne, PA
Cashier, June to September, 2001
Supervised customer check out
Handled the cash register
Managed and stocked merchandise
You can also list relevant volunteer activities or work experience programs if you do not have much job experience.
Achievements
If you have any special achievements you would like to announce, you can use this section. Maybe you made a suggestion that saved your previous boss a ton of money. You can list it in this section of your resume outline.
Special Skills
The remaining sections of the resume can include additional skills such as fluency in a foreign language.
References
You should leave this section out altogether. References are not required at this stage and stating that 'References are available upon request' is assumed anyway... so you just end up wasting valuable space!
Additional Optional Sections
You can add additional sections to your resume outline such as volunteer work, community involvement or honors. You also have to decide on the layout of your resume.
Choose a common font and medium range font-size, such as 12. Decide how you want to highlight the headings of the different sections. You can use bold, italics or underline to highlight section headings. Some people use bold and a larger font size to highlight their name on the resume.
The last part of your resume will probably receive little focus, so if you have a marketable skill or outstanding honor you should try to incorporate them in earlier sections of your resume.
You can find a lot of resources on the web that can provide you with free outlines and sample resume layouts. Usually an outline will differ if the resume is for a recent college graduate or a long time professional. Choose a resume outline that is specific to your career field and you can build your resume around that outline.
Roger Clark (BSc) has over 25 years experience in career development & recruitment at a senior level through top management positions he has held with major international companies.
You can visit his "Top Career Resumes" website for a wealth of top quality information relating to the employment market.
http://www.top-career-resumes.com
http://www.top-career-resumes.com/resume-outline
2008-01-12
Resume Outline - Add Structure & Flow to Your Resume
Writing Resumes
Use a resume as a foot in the door
When you go to college, they don't really teach you how to advance your career. In order to get the jobs you want, you need to know how to write an effective resume that will win you interviews. In order to be successful, you need to look at resumes as marketing brochures. Writing good resumes demands that you understand their purpose. They just need to have enough information to attract the recruiter and the hiring manager.
People win jobs in an interview
Don't include everything when writing resumes. You want to leave something to talk about in your interview. Here's an example. You could include how your writing saved your last company X dollars. Don't say how your writing saved them money. Leave a little bit out so that the interviewer wants to bring you in to find out what makes you so special.
Resumes don't get you the job, closing the deal in the interviews is what gets you the job. Remember to use resumes correctly; they're meant to be "business cards" that you post on job web sites like career builder or monster.com. But a piece of paper can't convince somebody to hire you as much as your own interviewing skills will be able to do.
And don't bank on resumes to get you that offer from an interviewer. Prepare for interviews by anticipating the hard questions that your interviewer will ask. Only by preparing thoroughly for interviews will you give yourself a chance at career advancement.
Resource based site to help you change your life, change your career and get a new job!
When you go to college, they don't really teach you how to advance your career. In order to get the jobs you want, you need to know how to write an effective resume that will win you interviews. In order to be successful, you need to look at resumes as marketing brochures. Writing good resumes demands that you understand their purpose. They just need to have enough information to attract the recruiter and the hiring manager.
People win jobs in an interview
Don't include everything when writing resumes. You want to leave something to talk about in your interview. Here's an example. You could include how your writing saved your last company X dollars. Don't say how your writing saved them money. Leave a little bit out so that the interviewer wants to bring you in to find out what makes you so special.
Resumes don't get you the job, closing the deal in the interviews is what gets you the job. Remember to use resumes correctly; they're meant to be "business cards" that you post on job web sites like career builder or monster.com. But a piece of paper can't convince somebody to hire you as much as your own interviewing skills will be able to do.
And don't bank on resumes to get you that offer from an interviewer. Prepare for interviews by anticipating the hard questions that your interviewer will ask. Only by preparing thoroughly for interviews will you give yourself a chance at career advancement.
Resource based site to help you change your life, change your career and get a new job!
7 Steps To A Job-Winning Resume
A new resume can jump-start your career. Your network contacts may ask for a resume and some industries absolutely, positively demand a resume as the price of admission. When you begin thinking of your resume as a power source, the results can be astonishing.
1. Your resume is a sales tool. It is not a place for therapeutic self-disclosure or true confessions. Be honest but present your accomplishments in the most positive way.
2. Leave tricky questions ("Why did you have six jobs in ten years?" "Why are you applying for an entry position after you've been running the show?") for the interview. Practice interview responses with a support group, friend or career coach.
3. If chronology works against you, opt for a sales pitch letter or use your network to get past the screeners. If you can't avoid a resume, some experts will advise a functional resume. However, once you show up for an interview, expect to be asked for a chronological review.
4. Focus on accomplishments. "Supervised ten people on a project that finished three weeks before deadline and saved megabucks."
If you're over fifteen, you do not have "duties." You have "responsibilities" and "accomplishments." Anyway, nobody cares about what you were supposed to do. They want to know what you contributed.
5. Exploring multiple jobs? Tailor your resume to each position and each field. Show that you understand your target firm's problems -- and are uniquely equipped to solve them.
6. Do not let anyone write your resume for you. Accept suggestions and feedback but the final product should be in your own words.
7. Use your network to review the final product. Ask at least six people in your field for candid feedback. The final test: How do you feel when you read the resume? When you feel proud of your resume, and you're eager to share it with everyone you meet, you're ready to move.
About The Author
Cathy Goodwin, Ph.D., is an author, speaker and career/business consultant, helping midlife professionals take their First step to a Second Career. http://www.cathygoodwin.com.
"Ten secrets of mastering a major life change" mailto:subscribe@cathygoodwin.com
Contact: cathy@cathygoodwin.com 505-534-4294
1. Your resume is a sales tool. It is not a place for therapeutic self-disclosure or true confessions. Be honest but present your accomplishments in the most positive way.
2. Leave tricky questions ("Why did you have six jobs in ten years?" "Why are you applying for an entry position after you've been running the show?") for the interview. Practice interview responses with a support group, friend or career coach.
3. If chronology works against you, opt for a sales pitch letter or use your network to get past the screeners. If you can't avoid a resume, some experts will advise a functional resume. However, once you show up for an interview, expect to be asked for a chronological review.
4. Focus on accomplishments. "Supervised ten people on a project that finished three weeks before deadline and saved megabucks."
If you're over fifteen, you do not have "duties." You have "responsibilities" and "accomplishments." Anyway, nobody cares about what you were supposed to do. They want to know what you contributed.
5. Exploring multiple jobs? Tailor your resume to each position and each field. Show that you understand your target firm's problems -- and are uniquely equipped to solve them.
6. Do not let anyone write your resume for you. Accept suggestions and feedback but the final product should be in your own words.
7. Use your network to review the final product. Ask at least six people in your field for candid feedback. The final test: How do you feel when you read the resume? When you feel proud of your resume, and you're eager to share it with everyone you meet, you're ready to move.
About The Author
Cathy Goodwin, Ph.D., is an author, speaker and career/business consultant, helping midlife professionals take their First step to a Second Career. http://www.cathygoodwin.com.
"Ten secrets of mastering a major life change" mailto:subscribe@cathygoodwin.com
Contact: cathy@cathygoodwin.com 505-534-4294
Dress For Success
You have heard the phrase, "Dress for Success." This is very important in your job search. First impressions can make or break an interview, so presenting a Tailored Image is a good first step to Promoting Success in your job search.
Employers can tell horror stories about people who show up on their doorstep looking for work with: torn jeans, t-shirts with offensive sayings, dirty fingernails, uncombed hair, curlers in their hair, and poor attitudes. While you have the right to dress the way you want on your own time, it is important that you dress the way an employer wants if you expect to be considered for a job. (This may also mean removing studs or getting a hair cut.)
When you are dropping off resumes, dress as if you were going to be interviewed, because you might happen to be in the right place at the right time and have the opportunity to speak to the employer or manager right away.
Many businesses have now adopted a more casual dress code, but it's a good idea to take some time before your interview to check out how the other employees are dressed. A good rule of thumb is to dress a little better for the interview than you would expect to dress on a daily basis. Dress above the position you want when to make a good first impression.
It is not necessary to have a big budget to present a tailored image. All it takes is time, careful shopping and a little ingenuity. Check out the second hand stores, the Salvation Army or Thrift Stores or your friends' closets.
Fran Watson is a Career Counsellor, Workshop Developer/Faciltator and member of Toastmasters. Find out more at www.franwatson.ca and sign up for her free E-zine Fran's Facts and Findings
Employers can tell horror stories about people who show up on their doorstep looking for work with: torn jeans, t-shirts with offensive sayings, dirty fingernails, uncombed hair, curlers in their hair, and poor attitudes. While you have the right to dress the way you want on your own time, it is important that you dress the way an employer wants if you expect to be considered for a job. (This may also mean removing studs or getting a hair cut.)
When you are dropping off resumes, dress as if you were going to be interviewed, because you might happen to be in the right place at the right time and have the opportunity to speak to the employer or manager right away.
Many businesses have now adopted a more casual dress code, but it's a good idea to take some time before your interview to check out how the other employees are dressed. A good rule of thumb is to dress a little better for the interview than you would expect to dress on a daily basis. Dress above the position you want when to make a good first impression.
It is not necessary to have a big budget to present a tailored image. All it takes is time, careful shopping and a little ingenuity. Check out the second hand stores, the Salvation Army or Thrift Stores or your friends' closets.
Fran Watson is a Career Counsellor, Workshop Developer/Faciltator and member of Toastmasters. Find out more at www.franwatson.ca and sign up for her free E-zine Fran's Facts and Findings
Dressing for a Job Interview
By: Will-9596
Dressing for a job interview has a lot in common with the way a politician dresses for a public appearance. Since different companies have different styles, you need to do some homework to learn the customs of a potential employer. If the interview site is local to you, go there and observe what the people are wearing. You should also call the human resources department and ask about the daily dress in the department you'll be talking to. Don't worry about what the HR person might think of you. S/he is a professional and will be happy that a candidate is doing his homework.
Once you know how to look like you're already a member of the team, put what you've learned into practice. As a rule, it is best to dress one level more formally than the people you would be working with. In other words, show respect without going overboard.
If your interviewers will be wearing suits, men should wear a conservatively cut two-piece in dark gray wool. Pair it with a light blue cotton broadcloth long-sleeved dress shirt with button cuffs and a point or button-down collar, a navy blue silk twill necktie, and polished black dress shoes (with a matching belt if you wear belts). Women should substitute an ivory or light blue top for the shirt and skip the necktie.
If the people you'll be meeting don't wear suits, a navy jacket and either gray flannel or khaki cotton trousers is a step towards male informality. Pair them with a well pressed button-down collar shirt, brown slip-on shoes and a matching belt. Once again, women wear a top instead of a shirt.
Like your clothes, your grooming should be clean but unremarkable. Have your hair cut a couple of days before the meeting, trim your fingernails, and do not wear any scent. It goes without saying that your clothes should be clean and freshly pressed. Limit your jewelry to a dress wristwatch, a wedding band if you wear one, and discreet cufflinks for men or a necklace or pin for women.
When the first meeting is a success and you're asked to return, you can loosen up just a touch. That could mean a pinstripe suit instead of a solid, and dark brown shoes instead of black, but don't deviate very far from plain, conservative dress. If you wore a navy blazer to the first interview you could wear a patterned jacket to the second. Stick to city colors, such as a small black and white check. If the environment is appropriate, men could substitute a black mock turtleneck sweater for the dress shirt and necktie this time.
Remember, your objective is to impress people with your qualifications rather than your dress. You'll have plenty of opportunities to express yourself with your clothes after you're hired.
Article Source: http://www.superfeature.com
Will speaks to groups on business dress and works with corporate human resources departments to help professional men and women build appropriate business wardrobes. He publishes the web's most popular blog covering classic men's clothing and style, A Suitable Wardrobe.
Dressing for a job interview has a lot in common with the way a politician dresses for a public appearance. Since different companies have different styles, you need to do some homework to learn the customs of a potential employer. If the interview site is local to you, go there and observe what the people are wearing. You should also call the human resources department and ask about the daily dress in the department you'll be talking to. Don't worry about what the HR person might think of you. S/he is a professional and will be happy that a candidate is doing his homework.
Once you know how to look like you're already a member of the team, put what you've learned into practice. As a rule, it is best to dress one level more formally than the people you would be working with. In other words, show respect without going overboard.
If your interviewers will be wearing suits, men should wear a conservatively cut two-piece in dark gray wool. Pair it with a light blue cotton broadcloth long-sleeved dress shirt with button cuffs and a point or button-down collar, a navy blue silk twill necktie, and polished black dress shoes (with a matching belt if you wear belts). Women should substitute an ivory or light blue top for the shirt and skip the necktie.
If the people you'll be meeting don't wear suits, a navy jacket and either gray flannel or khaki cotton trousers is a step towards male informality. Pair them with a well pressed button-down collar shirt, brown slip-on shoes and a matching belt. Once again, women wear a top instead of a shirt.
Like your clothes, your grooming should be clean but unremarkable. Have your hair cut a couple of days before the meeting, trim your fingernails, and do not wear any scent. It goes without saying that your clothes should be clean and freshly pressed. Limit your jewelry to a dress wristwatch, a wedding band if you wear one, and discreet cufflinks for men or a necklace or pin for women.
When the first meeting is a success and you're asked to return, you can loosen up just a touch. That could mean a pinstripe suit instead of a solid, and dark brown shoes instead of black, but don't deviate very far from plain, conservative dress. If you wore a navy blazer to the first interview you could wear a patterned jacket to the second. Stick to city colors, such as a small black and white check. If the environment is appropriate, men could substitute a black mock turtleneck sweater for the dress shirt and necktie this time.
Remember, your objective is to impress people with your qualifications rather than your dress. You'll have plenty of opportunities to express yourself with your clothes after you're hired.
Article Source: http://www.superfeature.com
Will speaks to groups on business dress and works with corporate human resources departments to help professional men and women build appropriate business wardrobes. He publishes the web's most popular blog covering classic men's clothing and style, A Suitable Wardrobe.
Find Free Resumes Online
Have you been spending money on countless job boards, only to find that they don't offer the types of candidates you need? If the answer is yes, don't fret any longer, you're about to learn crafty techniques to help you find free resumes on the net. There are numerous free resources online that offer resumes. These include: Free Resume Databases; Free Member Resumes on Association websites; Free College and Alumni resumes on University websites; Free Resume Newsgroups; Free Resume Blaster sites and active and passive resumes hosted on individual candidate websites. All of these resources can be found by using simple search techniques.
You will soon have hundreds of free resumes at your fingertips. The first step is to utilize multiple search engines since they will each offer different sites. The top 10 search engines suggested are: http://www.google.com, http://www.yahoo.com, http://www.altavista.com, http://www.excite.com, http://www.hotbot.com, http://www.alltheweb.com, http://www.galaxy.com, http://www.search.aol.com, http://www.msn.com, http://www.lycos.com. The search engines offer their own search features and they vary slightly. Therefore, it's important to always read the search tips and check out the advanced search tool for each search engine. The common search symbols used across most search engines are called Boolean phrases.
Using Boolean Phrases
The first step is to choose one of the search engines from the above list and type the address in your Internet browser. Then decide what key words would be effective for finding the type of resource you want. Once you have a list of key words, use the following Boolean techniques to run the most efficient search.
? If searching for a phrase on a webpage, place the statement between quotation marks. Example: "free resume database"
? If searching for multiple words use the word AND between each word. Make sure to capitalize all 3 letters. Example: free AND resumes AND java
? If interested in finding one or more words, use the term OR between your key words. Example: "free resumes" AND java OR oracle OR php
? If looking for resumes that have a specific word with multiple possible endings such as: manager, management, managed, use an asterisk at the end of the base word. Example: manage* This will pull websites with all of the words that start with that base word.
? If searching for specific titles, type the word title: and then fill in the title of choice. Example: title: free resumes. This will pull websites with the words Free Resumes in the html title.
? If looking for URLs that have the word resume in the URL address, type the command URL: resume.
? If looking for a website with specific text such as: free resume search, type the command text: free resume search.
Below you'll find suggestions of Boolean phrases and keywords to use that will help you find the free resume resources listed above. At the end of this article you will also find a suggested website that can give you access to hundreds of free resume resources instantly.
Free Resume Databases (These sites allow you to search through a database of resumes)
? "free resume database"
? "search for free" AND resumes
? "free resume search"
? text: free resumes
? free AND resume*
Association Websites offering Member Resumes (Many associations or organizations offer sections on their websites where members, who are looking for jobs, can post their resumes)
? "member resumes" AND association OR organization
? url: memberresumes
? text: search member resumes
? member AND resumes
? title: association AND resumes
Free College and Alumni resumes at University websites (Some Universities offer a section on their website where students, looking for internships, can post their resumes. Some also have pages where alumni can also post their resumes, when searching for work)
? "alumni resumes"
? url: edu AND resumes
? alumni OR student AND resumes
? text: alumni resumes
? university AND resumes OR cv
Free Resume Newsgroups (Newsgroups are email lists where people can post various things. There are several free resume newsgroups.)
? "free resumes" AND newsgroups
? newgroup* AND resumes
? url: newsgroup
? text: newsgroup
Free Resume Blaster Sites (These sites send resumes to your inbox after you fill out a form describing the types of resumes you need.)
? "resume distribution"
? "blast your resume"
Active or Passive individual candidate resumes on individual web pages. (There are thousands of personal resumes posted on the web. Some are active and some passive. Using the 4 numbers of the current year in your search can help you find more active resumes)
? url: resume AND 2005
? url: resume AND java AND oracle AND php
? resume AND experience AND education AND java OR oracle
? title: resume AND manage*
Now you're ready to begin your search for free resume resources. If you find that your busy schedule doesn't allow enough time for you to run searches to find a substantial amount of free resume resources, you should visit http://www.freeresumesites.com. They have already compiled an extensive list of hundreds of free resume databases, association websites, college resume sites, free resume newsgroups, free resume blaster sites, free job posting sites and links to pages that offer individual resumes. They charge a very minimal fee to access this list. This site can save you time and will provide you with all-of-the free resume resources mentioned in this article.
Remember, the Internet is an amazing resource for recruiters and if you don't want to spend large sums of money on useless job boards, you now have the skills it takes to find free resumes. Good luck with your recruiting efforts!
Kim Proulx is a professional Internet Researcher with 10 years of experience.
You will soon have hundreds of free resumes at your fingertips. The first step is to utilize multiple search engines since they will each offer different sites. The top 10 search engines suggested are: http://www.google.com, http://www.yahoo.com, http://www.altavista.com, http://www.excite.com, http://www.hotbot.com, http://www.alltheweb.com, http://www.galaxy.com, http://www.search.aol.com, http://www.msn.com, http://www.lycos.com. The search engines offer their own search features and they vary slightly. Therefore, it's important to always read the search tips and check out the advanced search tool for each search engine. The common search symbols used across most search engines are called Boolean phrases.
Using Boolean Phrases
The first step is to choose one of the search engines from the above list and type the address in your Internet browser. Then decide what key words would be effective for finding the type of resource you want. Once you have a list of key words, use the following Boolean techniques to run the most efficient search.
? If searching for a phrase on a webpage, place the statement between quotation marks. Example: "free resume database"
? If searching for multiple words use the word AND between each word. Make sure to capitalize all 3 letters. Example: free AND resumes AND java
? If interested in finding one or more words, use the term OR between your key words. Example: "free resumes" AND java OR oracle OR php
? If looking for resumes that have a specific word with multiple possible endings such as: manager, management, managed, use an asterisk at the end of the base word. Example: manage* This will pull websites with all of the words that start with that base word.
? If searching for specific titles, type the word title: and then fill in the title of choice. Example: title: free resumes. This will pull websites with the words Free Resumes in the html title.
? If looking for URLs that have the word resume in the URL address, type the command URL: resume.
? If looking for a website with specific text such as: free resume search, type the command text: free resume search.
Below you'll find suggestions of Boolean phrases and keywords to use that will help you find the free resume resources listed above. At the end of this article you will also find a suggested website that can give you access to hundreds of free resume resources instantly.
Free Resume Databases (These sites allow you to search through a database of resumes)
? "free resume database"
? "search for free" AND resumes
? "free resume search"
? text: free resumes
? free AND resume*
Association Websites offering Member Resumes (Many associations or organizations offer sections on their websites where members, who are looking for jobs, can post their resumes)
? "member resumes" AND association OR organization
? url: memberresumes
? text: search member resumes
? member AND resumes
? title: association AND resumes
Free College and Alumni resumes at University websites (Some Universities offer a section on their website where students, looking for internships, can post their resumes. Some also have pages where alumni can also post their resumes, when searching for work)
? "alumni resumes"
? url: edu AND resumes
? alumni OR student AND resumes
? text: alumni resumes
? university AND resumes OR cv
Free Resume Newsgroups (Newsgroups are email lists where people can post various things. There are several free resume newsgroups.)
? "free resumes" AND newsgroups
? newgroup* AND resumes
? url: newsgroup
? text: newsgroup
Free Resume Blaster Sites (These sites send resumes to your inbox after you fill out a form describing the types of resumes you need.)
? "resume distribution"
? "blast your resume"
Active or Passive individual candidate resumes on individual web pages. (There are thousands of personal resumes posted on the web. Some are active and some passive. Using the 4 numbers of the current year in your search can help you find more active resumes)
? url: resume AND 2005
? url: resume AND java AND oracle AND php
? resume AND experience AND education AND java OR oracle
? title: resume AND manage*
Now you're ready to begin your search for free resume resources. If you find that your busy schedule doesn't allow enough time for you to run searches to find a substantial amount of free resume resources, you should visit http://www.freeresumesites.com. They have already compiled an extensive list of hundreds of free resume databases, association websites, college resume sites, free resume newsgroups, free resume blaster sites, free job posting sites and links to pages that offer individual resumes. They charge a very minimal fee to access this list. This site can save you time and will provide you with all-of-the free resume resources mentioned in this article.
Remember, the Internet is an amazing resource for recruiters and if you don't want to spend large sums of money on useless job boards, you now have the skills it takes to find free resumes. Good luck with your recruiting efforts!
Kim Proulx is a professional Internet Researcher with 10 years of experience.
Career Change: Success Tips
Successful career change is based on first making an honest assessment of your skills and experiences. Then you match them against the current market conditions. Finally you set realistic goals. Here are five strategies to keep in mind when changing careers:
Plan for a longer job search.
Changing industries requires research, which requires time. Assess your financial situation and make realistic decisions. You may have to consider an interim position or part-time work or even volunteering to bridge to your new career and gain valuable experience.
Learn the business.
Read every article you can find on the industry, so that you can leverage your skills in offering solutions to industry challenges and demonstrate the value you would add to an organization.
Find a coach.
Coaches can provide you with insights into your new career field. They can also introduce you to key people and give you success advice. Treat them well for they are valuable resources.
Forget about ads and search firms.
With the exception of entry-level positions, companies run ads to recruit prospects with specific experience. This is also true of search firms, who are paid to find highly experienced talent that matches the job description exactly.
Network, network, network.
Networking is the key to any successful job search, especially in the case of a career change. The most effective way to transfer skills to a new field or new career is by using your contacts. Companies are more willing to take risks on people who are referred to them by individuals who can account for the candidates' abilities and potential.
Marcia Zidle, the 'people smarts' coach, works with business leaders to quickly solve their people management headaches so they can concentrate on their #1 job ญ to grow and increase profits. She offers free help through Leadership Briefing, a weekly e-newsletter with practical tips on leadership style, employee motivation, recruitment and retention and relationship management. Subscribe by going to http://leadershiphooks.com/ and get the bonus report "61 Leadership Time Savers and Life Savers". Marcia is the author of the What Really Works Handbooks ญ resources for managers on the front line and the Power-by-the-Hour programs ญ fast, convenient, real life, affordable courses for leadership and staff development. She is available for media interviews, conference presentations and panel discussions on the hottest issues affecting the workplace today. Contact Marcia at 800-971-7619.
Plan for a longer job search.
Changing industries requires research, which requires time. Assess your financial situation and make realistic decisions. You may have to consider an interim position or part-time work or even volunteering to bridge to your new career and gain valuable experience.
Learn the business.
Read every article you can find on the industry, so that you can leverage your skills in offering solutions to industry challenges and demonstrate the value you would add to an organization.
Find a coach.
Coaches can provide you with insights into your new career field. They can also introduce you to key people and give you success advice. Treat them well for they are valuable resources.
Forget about ads and search firms.
With the exception of entry-level positions, companies run ads to recruit prospects with specific experience. This is also true of search firms, who are paid to find highly experienced talent that matches the job description exactly.
Network, network, network.
Networking is the key to any successful job search, especially in the case of a career change. The most effective way to transfer skills to a new field or new career is by using your contacts. Companies are more willing to take risks on people who are referred to them by individuals who can account for the candidates' abilities and potential.
Marcia Zidle, the 'people smarts' coach, works with business leaders to quickly solve their people management headaches so they can concentrate on their #1 job ญ to grow and increase profits. She offers free help through Leadership Briefing, a weekly e-newsletter with practical tips on leadership style, employee motivation, recruitment and retention and relationship management. Subscribe by going to http://leadershiphooks.com/ and get the bonus report "61 Leadership Time Savers and Life Savers". Marcia is the author of the What Really Works Handbooks ญ resources for managers on the front line and the Power-by-the-Hour programs ญ fast, convenient, real life, affordable courses for leadership and staff development. She is available for media interviews, conference presentations and panel discussions on the hottest issues affecting the workplace today. Contact Marcia at 800-971-7619.
Job Search Tips - How to Increase Your Success
Finding a job can be a painful and difficult experience. Here are three things that you can do to minimize the pain and increase your chances of success.
1) Approach finding a job as if it were a full-time job, because it is. Consider this: if you had a job, you would report to work at the same time each day (like 8 am), take an hour (or less) for lunch, and quit at the same time each day (like 5 pm). You would work five days every week. And you would work hard to accomplish as much as you could because your career depended upon it.
When you are searching for a job, you should follow the same type of schedule because your future depends upon it.
Treating your job search like a part-time hobby guarantees that it will take longer. It even sets you up for failure.
In addition, the lack of focused activity will create a sense of helplessness. That sends you into a downward emotional spiral that makes it increasingly difficult to find a job.
So, begin tomorrow by reporting to work and spending the day on tasks that lead to a job.
2) Make it a project. That means you should set goals for yourself, make plans, and monitor your progress. You should apply all of the tools and skills that you used in your last job to the project of finding your next job.
As you must expect, this is an important project. The sooner you complete it, the sooner you gain a promotion into a job.
3) Be your own boss. You must set expectations for what you need to accomplish. You must provide direction. And you must monitor your work.
Meet with yourself once each week to evaluate your performance. I recommend doing this by writing two reports. The first is a candid evaluation of what you accomplished during the previous week. The second is a description of your plans for the coming week. Your plans should include your goals, actions, and priorities.
The first time that you write these reports, write an evaluation of what you have done so far. Describe the results that this effort has produced. And compare these results with what you wanted to have.
Next, map out a realistic plan for the next week based on achievable goals. For example, you could set goals for the number of people you will call, the number of networking meetings you will attend, and the research you will conduct.
In the coming weeks, compare the results that you obtained during the previous week with the goals that you set. For example, if you planned to attend twelve networking meetings and you attended only two, you should a) explain why this happened and b) plan actions that will correct such a difference. You should also analyze why you missed your goal because this provides insights on what you need to do differently. For example, your goal may have been set too high. Or maybe you could car pool with a friend who is also looking for a job.
Finding a job is a full time job. Work through it with a plan and the support of a good boss (yourself).
Business expert and author Steve Kaye works with leaders who want to become more successful. His book, Create Success, shows people how to take control of their future and manage their career. Visit http://www.ablecareer.com to learn more about this book
1) Approach finding a job as if it were a full-time job, because it is. Consider this: if you had a job, you would report to work at the same time each day (like 8 am), take an hour (or less) for lunch, and quit at the same time each day (like 5 pm). You would work five days every week. And you would work hard to accomplish as much as you could because your career depended upon it.
When you are searching for a job, you should follow the same type of schedule because your future depends upon it.
Treating your job search like a part-time hobby guarantees that it will take longer. It even sets you up for failure.
In addition, the lack of focused activity will create a sense of helplessness. That sends you into a downward emotional spiral that makes it increasingly difficult to find a job.
So, begin tomorrow by reporting to work and spending the day on tasks that lead to a job.
2) Make it a project. That means you should set goals for yourself, make plans, and monitor your progress. You should apply all of the tools and skills that you used in your last job to the project of finding your next job.
As you must expect, this is an important project. The sooner you complete it, the sooner you gain a promotion into a job.
3) Be your own boss. You must set expectations for what you need to accomplish. You must provide direction. And you must monitor your work.
Meet with yourself once each week to evaluate your performance. I recommend doing this by writing two reports. The first is a candid evaluation of what you accomplished during the previous week. The second is a description of your plans for the coming week. Your plans should include your goals, actions, and priorities.
The first time that you write these reports, write an evaluation of what you have done so far. Describe the results that this effort has produced. And compare these results with what you wanted to have.
Next, map out a realistic plan for the next week based on achievable goals. For example, you could set goals for the number of people you will call, the number of networking meetings you will attend, and the research you will conduct.
In the coming weeks, compare the results that you obtained during the previous week with the goals that you set. For example, if you planned to attend twelve networking meetings and you attended only two, you should a) explain why this happened and b) plan actions that will correct such a difference. You should also analyze why you missed your goal because this provides insights on what you need to do differently. For example, your goal may have been set too high. Or maybe you could car pool with a friend who is also looking for a job.
Finding a job is a full time job. Work through it with a plan and the support of a good boss (yourself).
Business expert and author Steve Kaye works with leaders who want to become more successful. His book, Create Success, shows people how to take control of their future and manage their career. Visit http://www.ablecareer.com to learn more about this book
Job Search - The Next Generation
By: Peter Stillman
Jobrapido brings the next generation of online recruiting to Europe: Job searching rather than Job posting.
The number of companies and recruiting agencies that post vacancies on their own websites increases rapidly, Jobrapido provides job seekers with a unique possibility: you can search through the vacancies posted on traditional job boards and on all other sites containing employment opportunities from one spot.
Jobrapido works like a search engine: you enter a job title and/or a location and you obtain a list with all of the vacancies posted on hundreds of websites which match your search criteria. They are sorted by date, starting from the most recent ones. The great advantage of Jobrapido is that the results page clearly indicates vacancy title, location, employer, the site on which each vacancy is posted and the date. Thus, job hunters can choose the most proper vacancies which match their job expectations and qualifications easily.
With Jobrapido, job seekers may also subscribe Jobletter and be daily notified by email of all the latest job vacancies matching their search criteria. It is a useful opportunity for those who do not want to check up the site every day.
Jobrapido project was launched in Milan (Italy) and has already achieved a top three position among most popular employment related websites in Italy. It has been rapidly developing through all over Europe and South America. In Europe Jobrapido sites provide already up to 2 millions of job vacancies arranged according to profession and location.
Since the beginning Jobrapido Team has been an enthusiastic, multilingual and multicultural group which aims to create the most modern internet platform for online job searching. In fact, with Jobrapido employment search may turn significantly easier and effective not only for job seekers but for employers and other websites as well.
To use Jobrapido in your job search, go to the main site with vacancies in Europe and South America.
Article Source: http://www.superfeature.com
Jobrapido - job search engine which enables you to search through all job vacancies posted on all job web sites in your country.
Jobrapido brings the next generation of online recruiting to Europe: Job searching rather than Job posting.
The number of companies and recruiting agencies that post vacancies on their own websites increases rapidly, Jobrapido provides job seekers with a unique possibility: you can search through the vacancies posted on traditional job boards and on all other sites containing employment opportunities from one spot.
Jobrapido works like a search engine: you enter a job title and/or a location and you obtain a list with all of the vacancies posted on hundreds of websites which match your search criteria. They are sorted by date, starting from the most recent ones. The great advantage of Jobrapido is that the results page clearly indicates vacancy title, location, employer, the site on which each vacancy is posted and the date. Thus, job hunters can choose the most proper vacancies which match their job expectations and qualifications easily.
With Jobrapido, job seekers may also subscribe Jobletter and be daily notified by email of all the latest job vacancies matching their search criteria. It is a useful opportunity for those who do not want to check up the site every day.
Jobrapido project was launched in Milan (Italy) and has already achieved a top three position among most popular employment related websites in Italy. It has been rapidly developing through all over Europe and South America. In Europe Jobrapido sites provide already up to 2 millions of job vacancies arranged according to profession and location.
Since the beginning Jobrapido Team has been an enthusiastic, multilingual and multicultural group which aims to create the most modern internet platform for online job searching. In fact, with Jobrapido employment search may turn significantly easier and effective not only for job seekers but for employers and other websites as well.
To use Jobrapido in your job search, go to the main site with vacancies in Europe and South America.
Article Source: http://www.superfeature.com
Jobrapido - job search engine which enables you to search through all job vacancies posted on all job web sites in your country.
Things to know when working on freelance programming jobs
By: Ken Wilson
When it comes to freelance programming jobs, things can be tricky. One shouldn’t ignore the idea that being hired as a software developer is somehow different than with other types of freelancers. Programming is itself a job more difficult and therefore costs more. If you are willing to work in such an important area for online businesses and let others spend a large amount of money for your work, then you should pay extra attention to the freelance jobs you choose to work on.
It’s no secret that getting a job can be difficult, but this doesn’t apply to freelance jobs, especially for those experienced enough to convince others through solid arguments of their skills. Even if things are easier when done online, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t more options to get things done significantly easier. Paying attention to the messages you receive and send out, to how you make your portfolios, to the way you present your past work and sell your experience, as well as to clear communication - these are all important aspects every freelancer should think about before starting to work for someone. Of course, knowing some things about what the client wants done and what can be done about his wishes is also vital.
Communication is the key to getting the job done properly. This is why it is recommended to start freelancing only if you speak and write in English well. In the case of freelance programming jobs, the service buyer can waste a lot of time understanding rotten English and you can also misunderstand his messages and requirements. Besides, English is an international language and, if you are a freelancer who wants to work online, one of the primary conditions you should fulfill is to speak proper English and to be able to communicate clearly what you think.
Regarding the money issue, it is a known fact that freelance programming jobs are cheaper than the official work of a software company which writes scripts. Although this is true, you shouldn’t settle to work with very cheap service buyers. Programming costs good money if they want a good job done. Think of it as an investment because all their current expenses will turn to profit as soon as they start using the software. If they are aware of a very good programmer for their freelance jobs, but he is too expensive for them to hire him, then they have another option. They can hire him as a code inspector to find major flaws in the software you’ve already been paid for. This will help them spend less and have pretty good software made for them, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be rewarded for your work appropriately.
Other things you should know when you work on freelance programming jobs are the following: You should create the software in small steps as this allows you to be clear on the specifications of the client regarding what they want done. If the client thinks you are unreliable, at least you won’t work too much and not get paid for it. If you don’t know much about marketing, you should inform yourself because clients expect this on your behalf as well. The freelance jobs you accept to work on should be satisfactory to the client and, if any details are left out, take care of them before ending the project. You should be patient and explain yourself every time. Last, but not least, use many comments in the code, use HTML templates and stay away from open code and re-used code.
So, freelance programming jobs are quite demanding, even if you are well qualified. You need to be careful every step of the way and test your final products just to be sure everything goes well. If you are careful and pay attention you will however have a lot to earn from freelance jobs.
Article Source: http://www.superfeature.com
By visiting our website, you will be benefiting from an outstanding online resource of freelance jobs. You can easily find many freelance programming jobs to work on and therefore earn a lot of money!
When it comes to freelance programming jobs, things can be tricky. One shouldn’t ignore the idea that being hired as a software developer is somehow different than with other types of freelancers. Programming is itself a job more difficult and therefore costs more. If you are willing to work in such an important area for online businesses and let others spend a large amount of money for your work, then you should pay extra attention to the freelance jobs you choose to work on.
It’s no secret that getting a job can be difficult, but this doesn’t apply to freelance jobs, especially for those experienced enough to convince others through solid arguments of their skills. Even if things are easier when done online, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t more options to get things done significantly easier. Paying attention to the messages you receive and send out, to how you make your portfolios, to the way you present your past work and sell your experience, as well as to clear communication - these are all important aspects every freelancer should think about before starting to work for someone. Of course, knowing some things about what the client wants done and what can be done about his wishes is also vital.
Communication is the key to getting the job done properly. This is why it is recommended to start freelancing only if you speak and write in English well. In the case of freelance programming jobs, the service buyer can waste a lot of time understanding rotten English and you can also misunderstand his messages and requirements. Besides, English is an international language and, if you are a freelancer who wants to work online, one of the primary conditions you should fulfill is to speak proper English and to be able to communicate clearly what you think.
Regarding the money issue, it is a known fact that freelance programming jobs are cheaper than the official work of a software company which writes scripts. Although this is true, you shouldn’t settle to work with very cheap service buyers. Programming costs good money if they want a good job done. Think of it as an investment because all their current expenses will turn to profit as soon as they start using the software. If they are aware of a very good programmer for their freelance jobs, but he is too expensive for them to hire him, then they have another option. They can hire him as a code inspector to find major flaws in the software you’ve already been paid for. This will help them spend less and have pretty good software made for them, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be rewarded for your work appropriately.
Other things you should know when you work on freelance programming jobs are the following: You should create the software in small steps as this allows you to be clear on the specifications of the client regarding what they want done. If the client thinks you are unreliable, at least you won’t work too much and not get paid for it. If you don’t know much about marketing, you should inform yourself because clients expect this on your behalf as well. The freelance jobs you accept to work on should be satisfactory to the client and, if any details are left out, take care of them before ending the project. You should be patient and explain yourself every time. Last, but not least, use many comments in the code, use HTML templates and stay away from open code and re-used code.
So, freelance programming jobs are quite demanding, even if you are well qualified. You need to be careful every step of the way and test your final products just to be sure everything goes well. If you are careful and pay attention you will however have a lot to earn from freelance jobs.
Article Source: http://www.superfeature.com
By visiting our website, you will be benefiting from an outstanding online resource of freelance jobs. You can easily find many freelance programming jobs to work on and therefore earn a lot of money!
Job Forum
By: Robert Palmer-3615
Posting and reading job forums come along with many benefits. If you are interested in finding a new job or simply want to keep up with what is available, you will want to seek out a job forum that can give you all of the information that you are after. Luckily, over the past few years more and more job forums have popped up. Of course, you need to go online to find these forums, but for most people this is not difficult.
One thing that you should remember about job forums is that there are many to choose from. For instance, there are general job forums that are simply meant as a catch all. This is where people talk about industry news, and course, they can post jobs as well.
But there are also many niche job forums as well. These are the ones that are more specifically focused on certain types of jobs, areas of the world, and much more. For instance, you may want to use an India job forum if you are going to be living in the country for an extended period of time. The benefit of doing this is that you know everything you read will appeal to you. After all, what is the point of finding a job in North Carolina if you are only interested in what is available in India? These niche job forums are really becoming more popular for the way that they are focused.
Finally, job forums are free to join. This means that no matter who you are you can join one of these forums and from there get started reading and posting. This sure beats having to pay money to speak with others or to find jobs.
As you can see, job forums have quite a bit to offer. If you have never used one of these before, you should consider doing so if you need to find a new career. You may be surprised at all the information you can find by simply searching a job forum.
Article Source: http://www.superfeature.com
www.bharathforums.com/ is a forum for indians to discuss astrology, predictions, horoscopes, vasthu, jobs, automobiles and other daily life topics.
Posting and reading job forums come along with many benefits. If you are interested in finding a new job or simply want to keep up with what is available, you will want to seek out a job forum that can give you all of the information that you are after. Luckily, over the past few years more and more job forums have popped up. Of course, you need to go online to find these forums, but for most people this is not difficult.
One thing that you should remember about job forums is that there are many to choose from. For instance, there are general job forums that are simply meant as a catch all. This is where people talk about industry news, and course, they can post jobs as well.
But there are also many niche job forums as well. These are the ones that are more specifically focused on certain types of jobs, areas of the world, and much more. For instance, you may want to use an India job forum if you are going to be living in the country for an extended period of time. The benefit of doing this is that you know everything you read will appeal to you. After all, what is the point of finding a job in North Carolina if you are only interested in what is available in India? These niche job forums are really becoming more popular for the way that they are focused.
Finally, job forums are free to join. This means that no matter who you are you can join one of these forums and from there get started reading and posting. This sure beats having to pay money to speak with others or to find jobs.
As you can see, job forums have quite a bit to offer. If you have never used one of these before, you should consider doing so if you need to find a new career. You may be surprised at all the information you can find by simply searching a job forum.
Article Source: http://www.superfeature.com
www.bharathforums.com/ is a forum for indians to discuss astrology, predictions, horoscopes, vasthu, jobs, automobiles and other daily life topics.
The perfect job at only a click away
By: Nick Jimenez
From the day we graduate college, most of us are looking for that perfect job, the one that we feel we could never get tired of, the one that we’ve been dreaming of since childhood and, of course, the one that guarantees a fair to high income monthly. However, only a few manage to actually find it, often after years of searching whilst trying many other jobs that bring no professional satisfaction whatsoever. In today’s society it has begun to be increasingly difficult to find a decent job in the same field of activity mentioned in the graduation diploma, forcing many people to rethink their plans for the future, starting with the job they want for themselves.
The increasing demands and requirements from employers as well as the lack (or insufficient number) of job spots available are the most important factors of a crucial flaw in many modern societies. Although, new business opportunities and therefore new job opportunities open up every day, the unemployment rate is continuously high and the perspectives are not encouraging. A possible explanation would be the fact that the number of college graduates is very high, in fact it is above the possibilities of the job market in almost every country in the world. Along with new times the industrialization era brought collapse to little merchants, craftsmanship and handicraft trades worldwide, hence the great demand for job in fields such as finance, banking, real estate, insurances and investment. The emerging prospects in these fields as well as very attractive possible earnings, has limited the number of choices for many people, which are now fighting for the best jobs available to them. A consequence of this misbalance is the coming forward of online companies that dedicate their activity to finding job opportunities from a wide range of activity domains and for any person willing to try.
These companies make their clients fill out a form in which they mention specific and essential information about their proficiencies, past experiences in different domains, current occupation, social background, as well as the desired salary and job preferences you may have. A dedicated staff will study the market for a set period of time to try to find the best job spots available that correspond to the information you provide in the form and show you the options you hold at a certain time. According to the list of open spots you may want to set interviews or choose to wait for a better time in which more appropriate and more convenient jobs open up. This decision is risky if not fully aware of every aspect concerning a particular job offer, and therefore you have the possibility of asking further information at any time.
All in all, if you too are looking for the job of your dreams and seem to always be one step behind in finding it then maybe you should try requiring the services of specialized and dedicated online companies that make the search for you, while sorting job offers according to your personal preferences and level of training.
Article Source: http://www.superfeature.com
Nick Jimenez is a ten year veteran of the recruiting space/job hunting space. He currently works as President of Climber.com (www.climber.com).
From the day we graduate college, most of us are looking for that perfect job, the one that we feel we could never get tired of, the one that we’ve been dreaming of since childhood and, of course, the one that guarantees a fair to high income monthly. However, only a few manage to actually find it, often after years of searching whilst trying many other jobs that bring no professional satisfaction whatsoever. In today’s society it has begun to be increasingly difficult to find a decent job in the same field of activity mentioned in the graduation diploma, forcing many people to rethink their plans for the future, starting with the job they want for themselves.
The increasing demands and requirements from employers as well as the lack (or insufficient number) of job spots available are the most important factors of a crucial flaw in many modern societies. Although, new business opportunities and therefore new job opportunities open up every day, the unemployment rate is continuously high and the perspectives are not encouraging. A possible explanation would be the fact that the number of college graduates is very high, in fact it is above the possibilities of the job market in almost every country in the world. Along with new times the industrialization era brought collapse to little merchants, craftsmanship and handicraft trades worldwide, hence the great demand for job in fields such as finance, banking, real estate, insurances and investment. The emerging prospects in these fields as well as very attractive possible earnings, has limited the number of choices for many people, which are now fighting for the best jobs available to them. A consequence of this misbalance is the coming forward of online companies that dedicate their activity to finding job opportunities from a wide range of activity domains and for any person willing to try.
These companies make their clients fill out a form in which they mention specific and essential information about their proficiencies, past experiences in different domains, current occupation, social background, as well as the desired salary and job preferences you may have. A dedicated staff will study the market for a set period of time to try to find the best job spots available that correspond to the information you provide in the form and show you the options you hold at a certain time. According to the list of open spots you may want to set interviews or choose to wait for a better time in which more appropriate and more convenient jobs open up. This decision is risky if not fully aware of every aspect concerning a particular job offer, and therefore you have the possibility of asking further information at any time.
All in all, if you too are looking for the job of your dreams and seem to always be one step behind in finding it then maybe you should try requiring the services of specialized and dedicated online companies that make the search for you, while sorting job offers according to your personal preferences and level of training.
Article Source: http://www.superfeature.com
Nick Jimenez is a ten year veteran of the recruiting space/job hunting space. He currently works as President of Climber.com (www.climber.com).
Five Principles For Any Employee
By: Mohan Potukuchi
Getting a job after several years of schooling gives some anxious moments to everyone!
It is a time when you are on your own and want to lead your life your own way without any strings attached.......
There are three major aspects in life :
1. Childhood
2. Adult life
3. Old age
There are however some transition periods like there is teenage between childhood and adult life in which period you develop your strengths - physical and mental. You play games and study for a job or a career. Depending on the profession you choose or plan you choose the area of education. Nehru said, " Education is what one forgets what one has learnt at school". It does not mean you immediately wipe out what you learnt. One has to develop one's own learning.
Learning Curve
A learning curve is 'S'-shaped. There is a lag phase, a growth phase, a stationary phase and a decay phase. In the lag phase you take your time to grasp, understand and apply the rudiments of knowledge imparted or learnt. The time period of lag phase varies from person to person. The growth phase is the period where you learn faster than before that is there is acceleration. In the stationary phase, you reach stagnancy since you are saturated either due to educational limitations or you are an expert by that time. Decay phase may overtake you either due to old age or due to out-dated knowledge.
You enjoy your life if you are lucky in the pre-adulthood phase of life when your mother takes care of you showering love and affection and father takes care of your educational needs and career planning. There those who have to struggle ( and there are plenty of them) to overcome emotional and economic problems to achieve their aims and objectives.
On getting a job
One day you get a job! You are thrilled. You do not have to ask your dad for money, you can buy what you want, you can have fun as you wish. There is a lurking suspicion somewhere. Whether I will be able to work to the satisfaction of the boss, what kind of work will be there, and actually what will I be supposed to do ?
What is an organisation?
First of all, one has to have an idea of an organisation or a company or a firm. The very word organisation implies a 'structure'. There is a hierarchy or a pyramid of people. There is a base, a mid- section and a pointed top. If one starts at the base, he is at the lowest level where all low-level jobs have to be carried out. If one joins at the mid-section, he has a base at the bottom and a top above him. The top-level or senior management plans, reviews and controls the over-all objectives of a company. The mid-section or middle management has to get the objectives planned by the top-management through the involvement of the base-level employees or their supervisors. The middle management has to clearly understand the plans and perceptions of the top management and the problems and limitations of the base-level to achieve success. Alongside one must also know whether one is in line management or staff management.
Line Manager
A line manager is directly in the line of command whereas a staff manager is one branch of line management. A line manager has better chance of promotion since he can go to the next higher level by virtue of a promotion in a vacancy. A staff manager has fewer chances of rising up the ladder. A line manager grows more by virtue of his years of experience though he may be doing the same job again and again, year after year!
Staff Manager
A staff manager can grow only by aquiring up to date knowledge and skills and by looking for better paying jobs. One should identify on joining a job whether he is a line manager or a staff manager. In a big organisation, even staff management can have its own line management but limited up to the main line where it is an off-shoot.
Career Visions
In the course of a job, one must realise quickly enough whether one is just doing a job for livelihood or for a career. When three bricklayers were asked what they were doing, each replied differently. One said he was earning his livelihood, the other said he was perfecting the art of bricklaying whereas the third fellow said he was building a castle. They are respectively the ordinary worker, the skilled worker and the manager, says Peter Drucker. Thus a profession can be looked at in one's own perception. Fundamentally, one who enjoys his job can achieve greater heights. If you want to be a successful manager, each and every nuance of work should be done with full focus and with dedication.
Emotional Quotient
In the beginning, very few job-seekers or fresh recruits realise that employee life is worse than student life. One has to have a high emotional quotient to tolerate the behaviour of colleagues at the workplace. There are those who are planning to out-wit you without your knowledge, there are those who are otherwise good but ineffective, there are those who at your very sight curse you under their breath, there are those who paint a dismal picture of the organisation on your very first day of joining and so on. Yet there are some good people too. There are those who want your help and company.
Five Golden Principles In Any Job
The first principle :
" Study the environment and the people for a reasonable time."
The second principle :
" Do not get tempted to comment or make statements."
The third principle :
" Do not be in a hurry to please your boss ."
The fourth principle :
" Do not enter into political discussions ."
The fifth principle :
" Study your boss carefully remembering the golden adage - the boss is always right!"
Ethics and Morality
In the long run, one should try to maintain ethical standards in a job. Ultimately, everything boils down to one's character. One has to be true, sincere, honest, hard-working, dedicated, principled and caring if one wants to be a successful manager. Remember, in an organisation you are what you are perceived to be! You cannot believe in something and appear to be somebody else - certainly, not in the long run. Be sure. Gandhian principles merit consideration in every walk of life.
Then you must plan for your finances. Work out a plan - when you want to get married, when you want to raise a family ( and what size!), where you want to be locationally and career-wise, standard of life you plan to maintain, assets you wish to build - fixed and current, your responsibilities, disaster management plan, savings for the future etc.
Above All
Above all, one should never land oneself in unnecessary problems. It is always better to maintain integrity. Do not be greedy or get misled by quick-money ventures. Take your time to study, analyse and discuss any investment and its associated risks. Do not fall into traps just because your friend has taken up something. Be safe and sure. Live by truth and self-control. Never be avengeful or nurture evil thoughts. Whenever you get angry or upset with someone, adopt "silence with a smile". If you wish you can tell politely but be ready to hear similarly!
In the long run, try to make up as best as and as fast as you can. Nobody has come to live permanently on this planet....
For latest job openings in computer related fields, you can visit:
Article Source: http://www.superfeature.com
The author is a professional chemical engineer having expertise in neutral spirits distillation. He is a free-lance web developer and has a flair for writing articles on a diverse range of subjects including Ethanol, Chemicals and Software Downloads.
Getting a job after several years of schooling gives some anxious moments to everyone!
It is a time when you are on your own and want to lead your life your own way without any strings attached.......
There are three major aspects in life :
1. Childhood
2. Adult life
3. Old age
There are however some transition periods like there is teenage between childhood and adult life in which period you develop your strengths - physical and mental. You play games and study for a job or a career. Depending on the profession you choose or plan you choose the area of education. Nehru said, " Education is what one forgets what one has learnt at school". It does not mean you immediately wipe out what you learnt. One has to develop one's own learning.
Learning Curve
A learning curve is 'S'-shaped. There is a lag phase, a growth phase, a stationary phase and a decay phase. In the lag phase you take your time to grasp, understand and apply the rudiments of knowledge imparted or learnt. The time period of lag phase varies from person to person. The growth phase is the period where you learn faster than before that is there is acceleration. In the stationary phase, you reach stagnancy since you are saturated either due to educational limitations or you are an expert by that time. Decay phase may overtake you either due to old age or due to out-dated knowledge.
You enjoy your life if you are lucky in the pre-adulthood phase of life when your mother takes care of you showering love and affection and father takes care of your educational needs and career planning. There those who have to struggle ( and there are plenty of them) to overcome emotional and economic problems to achieve their aims and objectives.
On getting a job
One day you get a job! You are thrilled. You do not have to ask your dad for money, you can buy what you want, you can have fun as you wish. There is a lurking suspicion somewhere. Whether I will be able to work to the satisfaction of the boss, what kind of work will be there, and actually what will I be supposed to do ?
What is an organisation?
First of all, one has to have an idea of an organisation or a company or a firm. The very word organisation implies a 'structure'. There is a hierarchy or a pyramid of people. There is a base, a mid- section and a pointed top. If one starts at the base, he is at the lowest level where all low-level jobs have to be carried out. If one joins at the mid-section, he has a base at the bottom and a top above him. The top-level or senior management plans, reviews and controls the over-all objectives of a company. The mid-section or middle management has to get the objectives planned by the top-management through the involvement of the base-level employees or their supervisors. The middle management has to clearly understand the plans and perceptions of the top management and the problems and limitations of the base-level to achieve success. Alongside one must also know whether one is in line management or staff management.
Line Manager
A line manager is directly in the line of command whereas a staff manager is one branch of line management. A line manager has better chance of promotion since he can go to the next higher level by virtue of a promotion in a vacancy. A staff manager has fewer chances of rising up the ladder. A line manager grows more by virtue of his years of experience though he may be doing the same job again and again, year after year!
Staff Manager
A staff manager can grow only by aquiring up to date knowledge and skills and by looking for better paying jobs. One should identify on joining a job whether he is a line manager or a staff manager. In a big organisation, even staff management can have its own line management but limited up to the main line where it is an off-shoot.
Career Visions
In the course of a job, one must realise quickly enough whether one is just doing a job for livelihood or for a career. When three bricklayers were asked what they were doing, each replied differently. One said he was earning his livelihood, the other said he was perfecting the art of bricklaying whereas the third fellow said he was building a castle. They are respectively the ordinary worker, the skilled worker and the manager, says Peter Drucker. Thus a profession can be looked at in one's own perception. Fundamentally, one who enjoys his job can achieve greater heights. If you want to be a successful manager, each and every nuance of work should be done with full focus and with dedication.
Emotional Quotient
In the beginning, very few job-seekers or fresh recruits realise that employee life is worse than student life. One has to have a high emotional quotient to tolerate the behaviour of colleagues at the workplace. There are those who are planning to out-wit you without your knowledge, there are those who are otherwise good but ineffective, there are those who at your very sight curse you under their breath, there are those who paint a dismal picture of the organisation on your very first day of joining and so on. Yet there are some good people too. There are those who want your help and company.
Five Golden Principles In Any Job
The first principle :
" Study the environment and the people for a reasonable time."
The second principle :
" Do not get tempted to comment or make statements."
The third principle :
" Do not be in a hurry to please your boss ."
The fourth principle :
" Do not enter into political discussions ."
The fifth principle :
" Study your boss carefully remembering the golden adage - the boss is always right!"
Ethics and Morality
In the long run, one should try to maintain ethical standards in a job. Ultimately, everything boils down to one's character. One has to be true, sincere, honest, hard-working, dedicated, principled and caring if one wants to be a successful manager. Remember, in an organisation you are what you are perceived to be! You cannot believe in something and appear to be somebody else - certainly, not in the long run. Be sure. Gandhian principles merit consideration in every walk of life.
Then you must plan for your finances. Work out a plan - when you want to get married, when you want to raise a family ( and what size!), where you want to be locationally and career-wise, standard of life you plan to maintain, assets you wish to build - fixed and current, your responsibilities, disaster management plan, savings for the future etc.
Above All
Above all, one should never land oneself in unnecessary problems. It is always better to maintain integrity. Do not be greedy or get misled by quick-money ventures. Take your time to study, analyse and discuss any investment and its associated risks. Do not fall into traps just because your friend has taken up something. Be safe and sure. Live by truth and self-control. Never be avengeful or nurture evil thoughts. Whenever you get angry or upset with someone, adopt "silence with a smile". If you wish you can tell politely but be ready to hear similarly!
In the long run, try to make up as best as and as fast as you can. Nobody has come to live permanently on this planet....
For latest job openings in computer related fields, you can visit:
Article Source: http://www.superfeature.com
The author is a professional chemical engineer having expertise in neutral spirits distillation. He is a free-lance web developer and has a flair for writing articles on a diverse range of subjects including Ethanol, Chemicals and Software Downloads.
Get a Job! Tips for Organizing Your Resume
Whether you're a Vice President of Marketing or a recent college grad, your resume is the 'key' to opening the doors of employment. It is an employer's first impression of you and believe it or not, many hiring officials spend less than thirty seconds reviewing it. With only fleeting moments to make a first impression, it is imperative that your resume be organized.
Polish your shoes, practice your handshake, and take note of some tips for creating an organized resume that will catch the eye of even the most weary of HR associates:
Start by sitting down with your old resume and a timer. Give yourself fifteen seconds to read it. How far did you get? Were you able to read the whole page? Besides 'getting your foot in the door,' your goal is to create a resume that can be scanned top to bottom in less than 30 seconds. It must be organized to punctuate your strengths and highlight your employment-related achievements. Next, give yourself another fifteen seconds but this time skim your resume as if you were the person doing the hiring. What parts stood out? Was it a bold or italic phrase? Was it a tabbed column of words or a dollar sign? Think about what words or sections jumped out at you, circle them in red, and use them within the body of your new resume. For another opinion, take a fresh copy and ask a friend or family member to do the same.
On scrap paper, create a chart and write all of your past jobs across the top of the page. Below each job title list at least 2-4 duties/accomplishments relating to the position. Analyze each of those and ask yourself: Does this achievement have any relevance to the job I'm now pursuing? Will the reader of my resume be impressed by the money I've saved the company/the body of work I created/the skills I've acquired? If your answer is yes, the next step is to prioritize those duties and/or accomplishments.
For example, let's say you are an administrative assistant listing relevant duties and achievements from your last job. This is your newly-brainstormed, non-prioritized list:
answered phone calls
created and color-coded filing system to support VP of Sales
coordinated supervisor's travel arrangements
saved Sales department $12,000 by researching companies and switching office supply vendors
Now, take a moment to prioritize your list. Which description should be listed first? Which of the four will quickly catch the reader's eye? Depending upon the type of job you're applying for, if you saved your former company any money or increased their productivity in any way, that fact should be listed first.
Now read the list:
saved Sales department $12,000 by researching companies and switching office supply vendors
created and color-coded filing system to support VP of Sales
coordinated supervisor's travel arrangements
answered phone calls
Always position your strongest achievement first. Either they'll be impressed and move on or think 'Wow!' and continue reading directly below. An eye-catching first statement will positively affect every statement listed beneath it so choose wisely.
Use Bulleted Lists. As opposed to a sea of text, a bulleted list focuses the eye to a specific area on the page. They are often used to highlight your accomplishments instead of hiding them within bulky paragraphs.
Example:
Saved Sales department $12,000 by researching companies and switching office supply vendors. Created and color-coded filing system to support VP of Sales. Coordinated supervisor's travel arrangements. Answered phone calls vs.
saved Sales department $12,000 by researching companies and switching office supply vendors
created and color-coded filing system to support VP of Sales
coordinated supervisor's travel arrangements
answered phone calls
Remember, one of your goals is to make reading your resume as easy as possible. The reader's eye will dart straight to the bullet and focus on what is written to it's immediate right. If you want to hold the reader's attention, use 'action words' (verbs) next to a bullet (see example above). Employing strong action words will assist the reader in visualizing you carrying out those tasks for their company.
To an HR official, an organized resume can be interpreted as the sign of an organized person. An organized person has the potential to have an organized desktop, organized file cabinets and organized work habits. These are skills and qualities that employers desire in an employee. If you can present a company/organization with an organized resume it will put you one step ahead of your less organized competition.
BONUS TIP:
Do not make 100 copies of your resume until at least one other person has reviewed it for errors and inconsistencies. Five minutes of 'editorial prevention' can mean the difference between getting an interview or getting a rejection letter.
About The Author
Stacey Agin Murray, professional organizer and owner of Organized Artistry, LLC, transforms 'mess' into 'masterpiece' with patience, organizing know-how, and a sense of humor. For more articles and to get your FREE e-list of 'Top Ten Tips for Organized Living' visit http://www.organizedartistry.com; stacey@organizedartistry.com
Polish your shoes, practice your handshake, and take note of some tips for creating an organized resume that will catch the eye of even the most weary of HR associates:
Start by sitting down with your old resume and a timer. Give yourself fifteen seconds to read it. How far did you get? Were you able to read the whole page? Besides 'getting your foot in the door,' your goal is to create a resume that can be scanned top to bottom in less than 30 seconds. It must be organized to punctuate your strengths and highlight your employment-related achievements. Next, give yourself another fifteen seconds but this time skim your resume as if you were the person doing the hiring. What parts stood out? Was it a bold or italic phrase? Was it a tabbed column of words or a dollar sign? Think about what words or sections jumped out at you, circle them in red, and use them within the body of your new resume. For another opinion, take a fresh copy and ask a friend or family member to do the same.
On scrap paper, create a chart and write all of your past jobs across the top of the page. Below each job title list at least 2-4 duties/accomplishments relating to the position. Analyze each of those and ask yourself: Does this achievement have any relevance to the job I'm now pursuing? Will the reader of my resume be impressed by the money I've saved the company/the body of work I created/the skills I've acquired? If your answer is yes, the next step is to prioritize those duties and/or accomplishments.
For example, let's say you are an administrative assistant listing relevant duties and achievements from your last job. This is your newly-brainstormed, non-prioritized list:
answered phone calls
created and color-coded filing system to support VP of Sales
coordinated supervisor's travel arrangements
saved Sales department $12,000 by researching companies and switching office supply vendors
Now, take a moment to prioritize your list. Which description should be listed first? Which of the four will quickly catch the reader's eye? Depending upon the type of job you're applying for, if you saved your former company any money or increased their productivity in any way, that fact should be listed first.
Now read the list:
saved Sales department $12,000 by researching companies and switching office supply vendors
created and color-coded filing system to support VP of Sales
coordinated supervisor's travel arrangements
answered phone calls
Always position your strongest achievement first. Either they'll be impressed and move on or think 'Wow!' and continue reading directly below. An eye-catching first statement will positively affect every statement listed beneath it so choose wisely.
Use Bulleted Lists. As opposed to a sea of text, a bulleted list focuses the eye to a specific area on the page. They are often used to highlight your accomplishments instead of hiding them within bulky paragraphs.
Example:
Saved Sales department $12,000 by researching companies and switching office supply vendors. Created and color-coded filing system to support VP of Sales. Coordinated supervisor's travel arrangements. Answered phone calls vs.
saved Sales department $12,000 by researching companies and switching office supply vendors
created and color-coded filing system to support VP of Sales
coordinated supervisor's travel arrangements
answered phone calls
Remember, one of your goals is to make reading your resume as easy as possible. The reader's eye will dart straight to the bullet and focus on what is written to it's immediate right. If you want to hold the reader's attention, use 'action words' (verbs) next to a bullet (see example above). Employing strong action words will assist the reader in visualizing you carrying out those tasks for their company.
To an HR official, an organized resume can be interpreted as the sign of an organized person. An organized person has the potential to have an organized desktop, organized file cabinets and organized work habits. These are skills and qualities that employers desire in an employee. If you can present a company/organization with an organized resume it will put you one step ahead of your less organized competition.
BONUS TIP:
Do not make 100 copies of your resume until at least one other person has reviewed it for errors and inconsistencies. Five minutes of 'editorial prevention' can mean the difference between getting an interview or getting a rejection letter.
About The Author
Stacey Agin Murray, professional organizer and owner of Organized Artistry, LLC, transforms 'mess' into 'masterpiece' with patience, organizing know-how, and a sense of humor. For more articles and to get your FREE e-list of 'Top Ten Tips for Organized Living' visit http://www.organizedartistry.com; stacey@organizedartistry.com
Hair Dressing as a Career
Since the world started hair has been a very important aspect of individual personality and with the change in time hair has emerged as a big form of self expression for both men and women.
In todays world everyone wants to look beautiful, everyone wants to get compliment from their friends and its a well known fact that when you look good you feel good and then you work better. In today's modern world peoples are most sophisticated-more educated and more fashion conscious whether male or female.
Hair dressing industy is a huge growth area all over the world, As with clothes, hair styles change with fashion and with more & more people taking an interest in the way they look, the hair dressing industry will be as popular as ever for a long time to come. People are now realizing that its not their clothes, shoes, jewellery which describes them it is also their hair, this is the reason they are getting more experimental and are open to change. The result? you can see on the streets women are going for their own individual & different style, they are not bothered about what people will say. There is lot of movement and texture in the hair as it use to be and it also benefitted the stylists now they can show their skills & creativity. Today hair dressing is one of the top industry in the world and as the fashion expand in fashion industry oppurtunities are growing at good pace not only in hair salons but also in film & tv industry, fashion houses, magazines, photo studios etc.
So if you enjoy working with people, like to use your creative abilities, have interest in fashion & art and enjoy a sense of achievement in your work, then a career in Hair dressing is waiting for you. I feel there is tons of potential in the hair dressing industry, the opportunity for growth and personal development is the part of this profession. Hair dressing is a career which allows you to showcase your creativity to have fun, to earn name, fame and good money. Great opportunity for growth and through your work and also you will have the opportunity to meet new people and always learn something new.
Also to change few People opinion I must say hair styling is an art and a good hair stylist is always a very valuable commodity. A hair stylist that specializes in dealing with your hair type is even more valuable and much harder to come by. I really believe that the cut and style of your hair can transform your look and personality from grossly ugly to a glamorous look. professional and competent hair cutting is the basis of good hair dressing. Designing a Cut needs care, precision, artistic appreciation, technique combination and control. It includes the elements of balance rhythm, line and movement. Understanding the nature of shapes is having an understanding of the elements that build them. The building components in creating shapes are points, lines and angles. Each component defines the nature of the shape and the style it represents.
Hairdresser is involved in helping a person make the most of their appearance. It is a fast moving profession with many exciting opportunities available. I must say oppurtunities for talented, creative, innovative people are endless. The hairdressing industry is continually developing and changing, creating an increasing range of styles that can be used. Believe me there are many different hair cutting styles and techniques that one wouldn't believe it. What is really a hair cut? It is a geometry applied to hair. A very caring hairdresser will study very hard to understand all angles, circles and lines he/she might have to use while haircutting, in order to fit his/hers clients body and face shapes. Understand the words beauty & art and Always remember the sentence "we really care for our clients"
So when you make your mind that you really want to take up this profession, understand few things 1. It involves dealing with people. 2. It is an important part of the fashion industry and involves using your creativity and imagination. 3. You need to have communication skills in order to talk to clients and build up a good relationship, have a friendly manner and good listening skills 4.It is a physically demanding job, requiring you to spend long hours on your feet. so if you have tired legs dont think of it.
BEST OF LUCK FOR THIS EXCITING CAREER.
The above article has been written by Nadeem Ahmed, India's leading hair stylist. Nadeem Ahmed is India's one of the leading hair fashion experts and he works at Rex Salon & Academy, Chandigarh. Nadeem also conducts classroom sessions, seminars & workshops on latest hair trends, colors, rebonding for creative professional hairstyling as well. He have entered into Limca Book of Records (Indian version of Guiness Book) by cutting hair with fire, blindfolded, hair cut with cutter and piece of glass and have been appreciated by Guiness Book of World Records. For more info visit http://zulfmakers.8m.com.
Savio Joseph
Free lance writer, writes for various newspapers & magazines
In todays world everyone wants to look beautiful, everyone wants to get compliment from their friends and its a well known fact that when you look good you feel good and then you work better. In today's modern world peoples are most sophisticated-more educated and more fashion conscious whether male or female.
Hair dressing industy is a huge growth area all over the world, As with clothes, hair styles change with fashion and with more & more people taking an interest in the way they look, the hair dressing industry will be as popular as ever for a long time to come. People are now realizing that its not their clothes, shoes, jewellery which describes them it is also their hair, this is the reason they are getting more experimental and are open to change. The result? you can see on the streets women are going for their own individual & different style, they are not bothered about what people will say. There is lot of movement and texture in the hair as it use to be and it also benefitted the stylists now they can show their skills & creativity. Today hair dressing is one of the top industry in the world and as the fashion expand in fashion industry oppurtunities are growing at good pace not only in hair salons but also in film & tv industry, fashion houses, magazines, photo studios etc.
So if you enjoy working with people, like to use your creative abilities, have interest in fashion & art and enjoy a sense of achievement in your work, then a career in Hair dressing is waiting for you. I feel there is tons of potential in the hair dressing industry, the opportunity for growth and personal development is the part of this profession. Hair dressing is a career which allows you to showcase your creativity to have fun, to earn name, fame and good money. Great opportunity for growth and through your work and also you will have the opportunity to meet new people and always learn something new.
Also to change few People opinion I must say hair styling is an art and a good hair stylist is always a very valuable commodity. A hair stylist that specializes in dealing with your hair type is even more valuable and much harder to come by. I really believe that the cut and style of your hair can transform your look and personality from grossly ugly to a glamorous look. professional and competent hair cutting is the basis of good hair dressing. Designing a Cut needs care, precision, artistic appreciation, technique combination and control. It includes the elements of balance rhythm, line and movement. Understanding the nature of shapes is having an understanding of the elements that build them. The building components in creating shapes are points, lines and angles. Each component defines the nature of the shape and the style it represents.
Hairdresser is involved in helping a person make the most of their appearance. It is a fast moving profession with many exciting opportunities available. I must say oppurtunities for talented, creative, innovative people are endless. The hairdressing industry is continually developing and changing, creating an increasing range of styles that can be used. Believe me there are many different hair cutting styles and techniques that one wouldn't believe it. What is really a hair cut? It is a geometry applied to hair. A very caring hairdresser will study very hard to understand all angles, circles and lines he/she might have to use while haircutting, in order to fit his/hers clients body and face shapes. Understand the words beauty & art and Always remember the sentence "we really care for our clients"
So when you make your mind that you really want to take up this profession, understand few things 1. It involves dealing with people. 2. It is an important part of the fashion industry and involves using your creativity and imagination. 3. You need to have communication skills in order to talk to clients and build up a good relationship, have a friendly manner and good listening skills 4.It is a physically demanding job, requiring you to spend long hours on your feet. so if you have tired legs dont think of it.
BEST OF LUCK FOR THIS EXCITING CAREER.
The above article has been written by Nadeem Ahmed, India's leading hair stylist. Nadeem Ahmed is India's one of the leading hair fashion experts and he works at Rex Salon & Academy, Chandigarh. Nadeem also conducts classroom sessions, seminars & workshops on latest hair trends, colors, rebonding for creative professional hairstyling as well. He have entered into Limca Book of Records (Indian version of Guiness Book) by cutting hair with fire, blindfolded, hair cut with cutter and piece of glass and have been appreciated by Guiness Book of World Records. For more info visit http://zulfmakers.8m.com.
Savio Joseph
Free lance writer, writes for various newspapers & magazines
Your Resume is Just One of the Tools in Your Job Search
A resume is a tool. It allows employers to see what skills you have and what benefits you bring to the table. When an employers looks over your resume they will most likely scan for highlighted points. Most HR people do this. This way they weed out your resume.
When writing your resume, make sure you tailor it for your specific job. You want the employer to see what you have to offer.
Put yourself in their shoes. If you were the hiring manager what would you want to see? Would you want to see that someone was able to reduce costs or was able to use a certain computer program?
Think of all the relevant things you did in your experience. Take all the time you need here. Write down everything you have to offer. Don't skimp. The goal is to keep writing them down.
Once you have your list. Go over them and pick out ones that stand out to you. Again, think like the hiring manager would.
What would you be looking for? Do this until you pick out a list of 3-5 things you can use on your resume. Once you have these down, ask yourself. Do they answer the all important question? What's in it for me?
HR may get a hold of your resume first. This is why this step is crucial. They will most likely scan over your resume for the key points. If you don't have them, it's probably good bye and in the round file.
If you think your resume has gone in the round file and you have no chance of being hired with that company think again.
This is where you can put your calling skills to work. Call the company and find out who is the head of the department you want to work in. See if you can get his or her email address. If not and you get voice mail leave a message like this.
Hello, my name is Paul John.
I sent my resume in to you about 4 months ago. I trust you were able to read it. I am very interested in a sales position with your company. I was able to produce a 100% growth rate over a three year period. Please give me a call back so that I know if you were able to read my resume or not. My number is...
You want to leave the finer points here about what you have to offer. If you are able to get the managers email address, apply the same principals as you would with the voice mail.
Just be personal in your writing. Speak to the manager as if you were in person but also be professional.
You can use this technique when you don't think you are going to get a call back from a company. This could be anywhere from 3-6 months.
Remember if something does not work out with a company, always try something different.
Todd Jirecek is the Author of: Headhunting Secrets Revealed.
If you want to learn more go to: http://www.headhuntingsecrets.com
When writing your resume, make sure you tailor it for your specific job. You want the employer to see what you have to offer.
Put yourself in their shoes. If you were the hiring manager what would you want to see? Would you want to see that someone was able to reduce costs or was able to use a certain computer program?
Think of all the relevant things you did in your experience. Take all the time you need here. Write down everything you have to offer. Don't skimp. The goal is to keep writing them down.
Once you have your list. Go over them and pick out ones that stand out to you. Again, think like the hiring manager would.
What would you be looking for? Do this until you pick out a list of 3-5 things you can use on your resume. Once you have these down, ask yourself. Do they answer the all important question? What's in it for me?
HR may get a hold of your resume first. This is why this step is crucial. They will most likely scan over your resume for the key points. If you don't have them, it's probably good bye and in the round file.
If you think your resume has gone in the round file and you have no chance of being hired with that company think again.
This is where you can put your calling skills to work. Call the company and find out who is the head of the department you want to work in. See if you can get his or her email address. If not and you get voice mail leave a message like this.
Hello, my name is Paul John.
I sent my resume in to you about 4 months ago. I trust you were able to read it. I am very interested in a sales position with your company. I was able to produce a 100% growth rate over a three year period. Please give me a call back so that I know if you were able to read my resume or not. My number is...
You want to leave the finer points here about what you have to offer. If you are able to get the managers email address, apply the same principals as you would with the voice mail.
Just be personal in your writing. Speak to the manager as if you were in person but also be professional.
You can use this technique when you don't think you are going to get a call back from a company. This could be anywhere from 3-6 months.
Remember if something does not work out with a company, always try something different.
Todd Jirecek is the Author of: Headhunting Secrets Revealed.
If you want to learn more go to: http://www.headhuntingsecrets.com
Successful Job Search: 10 Steps To Quickly Acquire Your Dream Job And Put More Money In Your Pocket
Do you want to continue your costly, time-consuming and exhausting struggle in a frustrating job search using weak, ineffective tools that are getting you nowhere? The job market today is fiercely competitive with few high-paying or desirable jobs available. With repeated downsizings, companies have learned to survive with less.
Mediocrity has no place in your job search process. To be a player among the huge number of job seekers, you need an edge, a unique compelling advantage.
To be successful, you must differentiate yourself from the crowd. You must use search strategies that put you head and shoulders above your competition. You must possess knowledge and skill in your area of expertise, and know how to demonstrate that to the world. You may be the best candidate for a position, but someone better skilled at interviewing gets the offer.
Here are the strategies you need to use to run a successful job search:
1. Determine your best-suited career
You need to sit down and assess your talents, strengths and core competencies, as well as what it is you truly want to do. It may not be enough that you have a skill set in a particular area if you lack the desire to move forward in that direction. To be a successful career builder and have a fulfilling career, find your passion and do what you love. If you don't, no amount of money will satisfy you.
2. Leverage your skills to the highest possible level
You may be a design engineering guru, a top marketing specialist or a graphics design genius, but unless you know how to present your talents -- in your resume and during your interviews -- your expertise will go unnoticed. You must also present your skills to the right person. A candidate weaker than you will ease you out of an opportunity just because they spoke directly to the hiring manager while you discussed your candidacy with someone in human resources. It's not always the best candidate who receives the offer.
3. Set yourself apart from your competition
With up to nine hundred candidates responding to one advertised job opening, it is easy to lose oneself in the vast sea of job seekers. You must learn how to differentiate yourself from the crowd. Creating an attention-grabbing resume is a good start. You must also learn how to prepare for and succeed at interviews. Tapping the hidden job market and networking are by far the most effective strategies for finding the right opportunities and getting ahead of your competition.
4. Create an attention-grabbing resume
One of the best ways to achieve this is to clearly state your value proposition, your strengths and several uniquely defined differentiators that set you apart from your competition. Add to that a set of well-crafted accomplishments that incorporate three critical factors -- the extraordinary task you fulfilled, how you achieved it, and the results -- and you have the basis for a winning resume.
5. Write a captivating cover letter
Your cover letter is critical to your success. It sets the tone. It is read before your resume and includes vital information about you that every potential employer needs. If you don't have a cover letter, or if you have one that is poorly written, you're setting yourself up for failure. Knowing the crucial elements of a cover letter is imperative to moving your candidacy forward.
6. Tap the hidden job market
Job ads account for only a small percentage of all job openings available. Seventy-five percent of positions are in the hidden, or unadvertised, job market. Unless you're tapping this hidden sector of the market, you will not be truly successful. Networking is one activity which will lead you to uncharted opportunities. Posting your resume to the top job sites is another. It will expose you to the employers and recruiters who are searching for candidates at these sites to fill their unadvertised positions.
7. Network your way to your next job
Networking takes communication to a whole new level. It is more about who knows you than who you know. Rather than specifically asking someone you know for a job, you must communicate your unique qualities to them. Networking produces results that are quite amazing. Roughly 80% of jobs are filled through networking. Untold opportunities are out there; it's through a concerted and committed networking effort that jobs are found.
8. Establish appropriate recruiter relationships
Recruiters do not work for you; their allegiance is to their client, the employer who has hired them to search for the best candidate to fill an unadvertised position. Recruiters are in business to help companies find people, not the other way around. You can nonetheless formulate an approach for working with them. A good strategy is to gain visibility by posting your resume to the top career sites where recruiters go in search of candidates for unadvertised positions. You can also use referrals as a way to meet with, and receive preferential treatment from, a recruiter.
9. Prepare for and have successful interviews
You must be prepared to talk about your worth and accomplishments. You need to understand the fundamental responsibilities of the position. Thoroughly research the company. Find out as much as you can so you can ask the right questions and have a successful interview. Take your time in answering the interviewer's questions, and be concise. Personality is ninety percent of the battle, so be sure to establish a rapport with your interviewer. Ask for the offer before the interview is over. After the interview, send a thank you letter.
10. Learn the art of offer negotiations
Offer negotiations are an integral part of your job search process. Negotiating is an opportunity to get what you truly want and deserve. It is a way to significantly raise your standard of living and sense of self, simply by taking stock of what you have to offer and then capitalizing on it to negotiate a higher starting point. Thousands of dollars can be added to your compensation along with signing bonuses, added vacations, profit sharing and more. What you receive now becomes your benchmark for future positions. Go for what you are worth -- your life will never be the same!
You can put time back on your side by following my suggestions for your success, which encompass all the tools and resources you will ever need for an enriching journey and a successful career. Treat yourself to the job of your dreams and write your unique ticket to the next phase of your career life!
Copyright ฉ 2005 TopDog Group All rights reserved.
David Richter is a recognized authority in career coaching and job search support. He has spent many years in recruitment, staffing, outplacement, counseling psychology and career management spanning most industries and professions. David founded TopDog Group in response to the needs of job candidates to have a higher quality of career coaching and support available on the Internet. David understands the mechanisms for success. He has formulated specific strategies anyone can use to secure interviews and receive offers. His extensive knowledge and experience sets David apart in this field, allowing him to offer a wealth of information and a vast array of tools, resources and strategies not found anywhere else. He has shown countless job seekers how to differentiate themselves and leverage their potential to the highest possible level, making a real difference in their careers. David holds both a Bachelors and Masters in Electrical Engineering, and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology. David's website address is: http://www.procareercoach.com
Mediocrity has no place in your job search process. To be a player among the huge number of job seekers, you need an edge, a unique compelling advantage.
To be successful, you must differentiate yourself from the crowd. You must use search strategies that put you head and shoulders above your competition. You must possess knowledge and skill in your area of expertise, and know how to demonstrate that to the world. You may be the best candidate for a position, but someone better skilled at interviewing gets the offer.
Here are the strategies you need to use to run a successful job search:
1. Determine your best-suited career
You need to sit down and assess your talents, strengths and core competencies, as well as what it is you truly want to do. It may not be enough that you have a skill set in a particular area if you lack the desire to move forward in that direction. To be a successful career builder and have a fulfilling career, find your passion and do what you love. If you don't, no amount of money will satisfy you.
2. Leverage your skills to the highest possible level
You may be a design engineering guru, a top marketing specialist or a graphics design genius, but unless you know how to present your talents -- in your resume and during your interviews -- your expertise will go unnoticed. You must also present your skills to the right person. A candidate weaker than you will ease you out of an opportunity just because they spoke directly to the hiring manager while you discussed your candidacy with someone in human resources. It's not always the best candidate who receives the offer.
3. Set yourself apart from your competition
With up to nine hundred candidates responding to one advertised job opening, it is easy to lose oneself in the vast sea of job seekers. You must learn how to differentiate yourself from the crowd. Creating an attention-grabbing resume is a good start. You must also learn how to prepare for and succeed at interviews. Tapping the hidden job market and networking are by far the most effective strategies for finding the right opportunities and getting ahead of your competition.
4. Create an attention-grabbing resume
One of the best ways to achieve this is to clearly state your value proposition, your strengths and several uniquely defined differentiators that set you apart from your competition. Add to that a set of well-crafted accomplishments that incorporate three critical factors -- the extraordinary task you fulfilled, how you achieved it, and the results -- and you have the basis for a winning resume.
5. Write a captivating cover letter
Your cover letter is critical to your success. It sets the tone. It is read before your resume and includes vital information about you that every potential employer needs. If you don't have a cover letter, or if you have one that is poorly written, you're setting yourself up for failure. Knowing the crucial elements of a cover letter is imperative to moving your candidacy forward.
6. Tap the hidden job market
Job ads account for only a small percentage of all job openings available. Seventy-five percent of positions are in the hidden, or unadvertised, job market. Unless you're tapping this hidden sector of the market, you will not be truly successful. Networking is one activity which will lead you to uncharted opportunities. Posting your resume to the top job sites is another. It will expose you to the employers and recruiters who are searching for candidates at these sites to fill their unadvertised positions.
7. Network your way to your next job
Networking takes communication to a whole new level. It is more about who knows you than who you know. Rather than specifically asking someone you know for a job, you must communicate your unique qualities to them. Networking produces results that are quite amazing. Roughly 80% of jobs are filled through networking. Untold opportunities are out there; it's through a concerted and committed networking effort that jobs are found.
8. Establish appropriate recruiter relationships
Recruiters do not work for you; their allegiance is to their client, the employer who has hired them to search for the best candidate to fill an unadvertised position. Recruiters are in business to help companies find people, not the other way around. You can nonetheless formulate an approach for working with them. A good strategy is to gain visibility by posting your resume to the top career sites where recruiters go in search of candidates for unadvertised positions. You can also use referrals as a way to meet with, and receive preferential treatment from, a recruiter.
9. Prepare for and have successful interviews
You must be prepared to talk about your worth and accomplishments. You need to understand the fundamental responsibilities of the position. Thoroughly research the company. Find out as much as you can so you can ask the right questions and have a successful interview. Take your time in answering the interviewer's questions, and be concise. Personality is ninety percent of the battle, so be sure to establish a rapport with your interviewer. Ask for the offer before the interview is over. After the interview, send a thank you letter.
10. Learn the art of offer negotiations
Offer negotiations are an integral part of your job search process. Negotiating is an opportunity to get what you truly want and deserve. It is a way to significantly raise your standard of living and sense of self, simply by taking stock of what you have to offer and then capitalizing on it to negotiate a higher starting point. Thousands of dollars can be added to your compensation along with signing bonuses, added vacations, profit sharing and more. What you receive now becomes your benchmark for future positions. Go for what you are worth -- your life will never be the same!
You can put time back on your side by following my suggestions for your success, which encompass all the tools and resources you will ever need for an enriching journey and a successful career. Treat yourself to the job of your dreams and write your unique ticket to the next phase of your career life!
Copyright ฉ 2005 TopDog Group All rights reserved.
David Richter is a recognized authority in career coaching and job search support. He has spent many years in recruitment, staffing, outplacement, counseling psychology and career management spanning most industries and professions. David founded TopDog Group in response to the needs of job candidates to have a higher quality of career coaching and support available on the Internet. David understands the mechanisms for success. He has formulated specific strategies anyone can use to secure interviews and receive offers. His extensive knowledge and experience sets David apart in this field, allowing him to offer a wealth of information and a vast array of tools, resources and strategies not found anywhere else. He has shown countless job seekers how to differentiate themselves and leverage their potential to the highest possible level, making a real difference in their careers. David holds both a Bachelors and Masters in Electrical Engineering, and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology. David's website address is: http://www.procareercoach.com
Your First Job
"Your first job is an extension of your education"
Fresh out of college. Loads of dreams. A whole new world waiting to be explored. And you are just waiting to put all those fat books you have spent the last few years studying into practice. Self-assured and confident yet anxious about the new world ahead. To make all those castles in the air real?with your very first job.
Like every other first experience, the first job is one experience which you wouldn't remember to forget. The experience could make lasting impressions in your mind.
Desirables
In your first job, there are a few things that are helpful. Though they are not mandatory yet they are desirable in view of the long-term benefits they offer.
1. Postpone marriage.
2. Starting up with MNCs helps.
3. Start in line functions.
Choose between:
ท Accounting vs. Audit.
ท Sales vs. Marketing.
ท Production vs. Planning.
4. Start in the private sector.
5. Work outside your hometown.
The Basics
First, understand that your first job is not a job. It is an extension of your education. The first job is the foundation of your job career.
By foundation of your job career I mean that the experiences you come across leave indelible impressions on your mind that are often lasting ones. It shapes your attitude and outlook towards lot of many things.
The first job is a stepping stone to higher levels in the corporate hierarchy. Don't start looking for new jobs when the going gets tough or when someone offers a few hundred bucks more. Stay on for a minimum period of 5 years. The experience provides you a solid base upon which you can build your career.
Be flexible and go mobile. Don't stick to one city/state and get your career grounded. Be prepared to shift anywhere. Travel widens your horizons.
Seven Steps to a strong foundation
1. Right Attitude
"There are no menial jobs, only menial attitudes."
- William John Bennett
Have an open mind. Never judge anyone or anything immediately. Wait and watch before jumping into conclusions. Having the right attitude towards work and people is as important as the ability to work. Modern companies require their employees to sport the right attitude that is in full alignment with their goals and objectives. To start with you must be a law-abiding employee giving due respect to people, processes, practices, hierarchy and the organization.
Even clock-watching in the first or initial days of your first job is a pointer of your attitude. Don't clock-watch and flee the workplace as soon as the clock strikes six in the evening. People notice your activities intensely and they may form fixed impressions in their minds. So don't hesitate to stay put and finish your job if the situation warrants. Believe me, people would appreciate.
Again, attitude matters most since it measures your altitude. It can spell how far you can go on the organizational hierarchy. Right attitude is one where the mind looks at things with a positive outlook. You are open to ideas and there are no limiting factors to cloud your views and opinions about people and their ideas.
2. Get networked
Get to know people and be friendly with them. Your work may warrant, at times, getting in touch with different people. During such occasions their support and guidance will be very much valuable and useful. But irrespective of your work requirements it's always good to know people. Coffee and lunch breaks are times to mingle with people across the organization.
Come out of the shell. Don't restrict your circle with just among those in your department. Reach out to people from across functions.
3. Learning the ropes
Your first task is to secure yourself ? to transform the slippery toehold you have gained into a firm foothold. For this to happen you must become technically competent
Technical competence comes when you learn the job thoroughly. Transform the theoretical knowledge gained in your years of study into practical and workable application to the job you do. Learn as much as possible ? across functions. The more you learn the better. Most novices fail by trying to learn the tricks of the trade. Instead, learn the trade itself. Learn across functions and become multi-skilled. That looks great on your resume.
More than learning what's more important is the willingness to learn. Develop this desire to learn and there can be no stops for you. Many novices are shy of learning lest they would be branded ignorant. When you are struck somewhere don't blink; ask help. People will explain how. Don't live with ignorance. Dispel darkness with knowledge. And as the Danish proverb says, "Better to ask twice than to lose your way once."
Be ashamed to say, "I don't know". Learn and you will never have to say that again.
Invest your time, energy and resources in learning without expecting anything in return.
4. Take Initiatives
"Folks who never do more than they get paid for, never get paid for any more than they do."
- Elbert Hubbard
Without initiatives you are nowhere. You will not get noticed and counted. Initiatives prove your worth and serve as portraying you as pro-active, loyal and committed to the organization you work for. Higher-ups will start taking you seriously.
Initiative means exhibiting originality, doing a thing on your own volition without being told by someone.
What sets two trainees apart is this ability to take initiatives, to pitch in with ideas and suggestions in order to improve and simplify processes & procedures. "That's-not-my-job", "Why-should-I?" attitudes must go away for good in order to take initiatives. And taking initiatives is one way to get out of the pile and stand out distinctly.
Let me explain the value of taking initiatives with an example.
Three brothers, Jim, Mike and Bill were hired by a company on the same pay. Three years later, Jim was being paid $500 a month, Mike was receiving $1000 but Bill was making $1500.
Their father decided to visit the employer and questioned about the disparity of their income. He listened to the confused father and said, "I will let the boys explain themselves."
Jim was summoned to the supervisor's office and was told, "Jim, our company has just brought a large cargo ship loaded with Japanese electronic items. Will you please go over to the harbor and get a cargo inventory?"
A few minutes later, Jim returned to the office. "The cargo was one lakh units of Japanese stereos." Jim reported "I got the information over the phone from the Port Trust delivery office."
When Jim left, Mike, the $1000 a month brother, was called. "Mike," said the boss, "I wish you would go out to the harbor and get an inventory of the cargo ship which was just brought in by our company."
An hour later, Mike was back in the office with a list showing that the ship carried one lakh units of Japanese stereos, 75000 cameras and 100 camcorders. Then Bill, the $1500 a month brother, was given identical instructions. Working hours were over when he finally returned.
"The cargo ship carried one lakh units of Japanese stereos," he began. "It was on sale at $50 a piece, so I took a two-day option on the whole lot. I have wired a manufacturer in Iowa offering the stereos at seventy five dollars a piece. I expect to have the order tomorrow. I also found the 75000 cameras, which I sold over the telephone at a profit of $25 each. There were 100 camcorders of which nearly 40 were damaged during transit. So I sold the rest at a profit of $75 a piece."
When Bill left the office the boss smiled. "You probably noticed" he said, "that Jim doesn't do what he's told, Mike does only what he's told, but Bill does without being told."
The future is full of promise for one who shows initiative.
5. Be accountable
It is in the first job we always commit blunder and mistakes and we fear to tread confidently. We try to effectively use the loopholes and make good our escape from accountability. But beware! People always are watching but they just don't point out for whatever reasons.
Being accountable to the jobs we undertake is a sure sign of maturity, courage and confidence. The courage we display to own up mistakes and take responsibility for our actions will show us in the right picture.
When things go wrong, standing up and admitting the faults will only help us to see things in the right perspective and provide us an opportunity to learn from such aberrations. Though it is easy to pass the buck and thank our stars for not getting caught we learn very little except cunningness and tricks of the blame game which doesn't augur well for us.
6. Work on feedback
Feedbacks are a report on your performance. Be open to criticism and correction. Since it's only your very first job people may point out when you go wrong. Learn. Take feedbacks seriously and positively. They help us being focused by pointing out the anomalies and gaps between the expectations and our performance. Don't lose heart if you are not up to the mark. Every professional is at first an amateur. Give yourself a chance and think how best you get bridge this variance. Ask for guidance from your superior and he will be glad to do so.
Working upon the feedback is more important than merely attending the routine feedback sessions. Start by taking efforts on the areas of improvement. Improve constantly until you exceed expectations. And again improvement doesn't end there. You can just feel satisfied that you have met the standards but improving constantly is a never-ending mantra. The proof of the pudding is in the eating! Prove yourself with improved performance. That way you gain confidence of your superior.
7. Say no to gossip
The bane of new recruits is getting into the vortex of gossiping and politics. Steer clear from these as they pull you down to an abyss. They spoil and cloud your outlook, attitude and approach. Gossiping and lying go hand in hand.
Never talk ill of others particularly when they are not around. Such behavior is in poor taste. Don't harbor extreme views on persons and things. Those who value work and their time will not waste time in gossip.
Brace yourself to get a few shocks in your first job. After all, everything is not tailor-made for you. For instance, you may have visualized your office as a dream office just as you get to see in films and glossy magazines & brochures. Remember, the size of your office is not as important as the size of your paycheck.
First job experiences are worth remembering forever. Let self-consciousness give way to confidence and move ahead with firm steps. As with everything else, keep your eyes and ears open always. Tread with care since it could either leave indelible scars or make you a star. Do things that you would be proud about and you will cherish the experience forever. Let your foundation be strong and it starts with your first job!
_________________________________________________________________
Copyright (c) 2005 by G Ram Kumar. All rights reserved.
About the Author
G Ram Kumar works with Juno Online, one of the top Internet Service Provider in the US. Prior to this, he had a short stint with ICICI Bank, India's largest private sector bank. He is very passionate about his work and keen observer of people around him.
A voracious reader since his teens, Ram became interested in writing. It was just a case of taking hobby too seriously and the efforts culminated in Your First Job for everyone interested in career development. His keen sense of observation and interactions with many executives came handy in the concept and design of this book.
Ram's first book "FAQs in Interviews" published by Independentbook.com was well-received.
Ram is an MCA and also he is certified by Cisco Systems Inc, USA as Cisco Certified Network Associate.
Ram Kumar is one of the founder trustees of SKetch, a South India-based NGO involved in women education and empowerment initiatives and sits on the board of the Governing Council of Trustees of SKetch.
Coming it may as surprise to readers, the author of this book is just 25 yrs!
Fresh out of college. Loads of dreams. A whole new world waiting to be explored. And you are just waiting to put all those fat books you have spent the last few years studying into practice. Self-assured and confident yet anxious about the new world ahead. To make all those castles in the air real?with your very first job.
Like every other first experience, the first job is one experience which you wouldn't remember to forget. The experience could make lasting impressions in your mind.
Desirables
In your first job, there are a few things that are helpful. Though they are not mandatory yet they are desirable in view of the long-term benefits they offer.
1. Postpone marriage.
2. Starting up with MNCs helps.
3. Start in line functions.
Choose between:
ท Accounting vs. Audit.
ท Sales vs. Marketing.
ท Production vs. Planning.
4. Start in the private sector.
5. Work outside your hometown.
The Basics
First, understand that your first job is not a job. It is an extension of your education. The first job is the foundation of your job career.
By foundation of your job career I mean that the experiences you come across leave indelible impressions on your mind that are often lasting ones. It shapes your attitude and outlook towards lot of many things.
The first job is a stepping stone to higher levels in the corporate hierarchy. Don't start looking for new jobs when the going gets tough or when someone offers a few hundred bucks more. Stay on for a minimum period of 5 years. The experience provides you a solid base upon which you can build your career.
Be flexible and go mobile. Don't stick to one city/state and get your career grounded. Be prepared to shift anywhere. Travel widens your horizons.
Seven Steps to a strong foundation
1. Right Attitude
"There are no menial jobs, only menial attitudes."
- William John Bennett
Have an open mind. Never judge anyone or anything immediately. Wait and watch before jumping into conclusions. Having the right attitude towards work and people is as important as the ability to work. Modern companies require their employees to sport the right attitude that is in full alignment with their goals and objectives. To start with you must be a law-abiding employee giving due respect to people, processes, practices, hierarchy and the organization.
Even clock-watching in the first or initial days of your first job is a pointer of your attitude. Don't clock-watch and flee the workplace as soon as the clock strikes six in the evening. People notice your activities intensely and they may form fixed impressions in their minds. So don't hesitate to stay put and finish your job if the situation warrants. Believe me, people would appreciate.
Again, attitude matters most since it measures your altitude. It can spell how far you can go on the organizational hierarchy. Right attitude is one where the mind looks at things with a positive outlook. You are open to ideas and there are no limiting factors to cloud your views and opinions about people and their ideas.
2. Get networked
Get to know people and be friendly with them. Your work may warrant, at times, getting in touch with different people. During such occasions their support and guidance will be very much valuable and useful. But irrespective of your work requirements it's always good to know people. Coffee and lunch breaks are times to mingle with people across the organization.
Come out of the shell. Don't restrict your circle with just among those in your department. Reach out to people from across functions.
3. Learning the ropes
Your first task is to secure yourself ? to transform the slippery toehold you have gained into a firm foothold. For this to happen you must become technically competent
Technical competence comes when you learn the job thoroughly. Transform the theoretical knowledge gained in your years of study into practical and workable application to the job you do. Learn as much as possible ? across functions. The more you learn the better. Most novices fail by trying to learn the tricks of the trade. Instead, learn the trade itself. Learn across functions and become multi-skilled. That looks great on your resume.
More than learning what's more important is the willingness to learn. Develop this desire to learn and there can be no stops for you. Many novices are shy of learning lest they would be branded ignorant. When you are struck somewhere don't blink; ask help. People will explain how. Don't live with ignorance. Dispel darkness with knowledge. And as the Danish proverb says, "Better to ask twice than to lose your way once."
Be ashamed to say, "I don't know". Learn and you will never have to say that again.
Invest your time, energy and resources in learning without expecting anything in return.
4. Take Initiatives
"Folks who never do more than they get paid for, never get paid for any more than they do."
- Elbert Hubbard
Without initiatives you are nowhere. You will not get noticed and counted. Initiatives prove your worth and serve as portraying you as pro-active, loyal and committed to the organization you work for. Higher-ups will start taking you seriously.
Initiative means exhibiting originality, doing a thing on your own volition without being told by someone.
What sets two trainees apart is this ability to take initiatives, to pitch in with ideas and suggestions in order to improve and simplify processes & procedures. "That's-not-my-job", "Why-should-I?" attitudes must go away for good in order to take initiatives. And taking initiatives is one way to get out of the pile and stand out distinctly.
Let me explain the value of taking initiatives with an example.
Three brothers, Jim, Mike and Bill were hired by a company on the same pay. Three years later, Jim was being paid $500 a month, Mike was receiving $1000 but Bill was making $1500.
Their father decided to visit the employer and questioned about the disparity of their income. He listened to the confused father and said, "I will let the boys explain themselves."
Jim was summoned to the supervisor's office and was told, "Jim, our company has just brought a large cargo ship loaded with Japanese electronic items. Will you please go over to the harbor and get a cargo inventory?"
A few minutes later, Jim returned to the office. "The cargo was one lakh units of Japanese stereos." Jim reported "I got the information over the phone from the Port Trust delivery office."
When Jim left, Mike, the $1000 a month brother, was called. "Mike," said the boss, "I wish you would go out to the harbor and get an inventory of the cargo ship which was just brought in by our company."
An hour later, Mike was back in the office with a list showing that the ship carried one lakh units of Japanese stereos, 75000 cameras and 100 camcorders. Then Bill, the $1500 a month brother, was given identical instructions. Working hours were over when he finally returned.
"The cargo ship carried one lakh units of Japanese stereos," he began. "It was on sale at $50 a piece, so I took a two-day option on the whole lot. I have wired a manufacturer in Iowa offering the stereos at seventy five dollars a piece. I expect to have the order tomorrow. I also found the 75000 cameras, which I sold over the telephone at a profit of $25 each. There were 100 camcorders of which nearly 40 were damaged during transit. So I sold the rest at a profit of $75 a piece."
When Bill left the office the boss smiled. "You probably noticed" he said, "that Jim doesn't do what he's told, Mike does only what he's told, but Bill does without being told."
The future is full of promise for one who shows initiative.
5. Be accountable
It is in the first job we always commit blunder and mistakes and we fear to tread confidently. We try to effectively use the loopholes and make good our escape from accountability. But beware! People always are watching but they just don't point out for whatever reasons.
Being accountable to the jobs we undertake is a sure sign of maturity, courage and confidence. The courage we display to own up mistakes and take responsibility for our actions will show us in the right picture.
When things go wrong, standing up and admitting the faults will only help us to see things in the right perspective and provide us an opportunity to learn from such aberrations. Though it is easy to pass the buck and thank our stars for not getting caught we learn very little except cunningness and tricks of the blame game which doesn't augur well for us.
6. Work on feedback
Feedbacks are a report on your performance. Be open to criticism and correction. Since it's only your very first job people may point out when you go wrong. Learn. Take feedbacks seriously and positively. They help us being focused by pointing out the anomalies and gaps between the expectations and our performance. Don't lose heart if you are not up to the mark. Every professional is at first an amateur. Give yourself a chance and think how best you get bridge this variance. Ask for guidance from your superior and he will be glad to do so.
Working upon the feedback is more important than merely attending the routine feedback sessions. Start by taking efforts on the areas of improvement. Improve constantly until you exceed expectations. And again improvement doesn't end there. You can just feel satisfied that you have met the standards but improving constantly is a never-ending mantra. The proof of the pudding is in the eating! Prove yourself with improved performance. That way you gain confidence of your superior.
7. Say no to gossip
The bane of new recruits is getting into the vortex of gossiping and politics. Steer clear from these as they pull you down to an abyss. They spoil and cloud your outlook, attitude and approach. Gossiping and lying go hand in hand.
Never talk ill of others particularly when they are not around. Such behavior is in poor taste. Don't harbor extreme views on persons and things. Those who value work and their time will not waste time in gossip.
Brace yourself to get a few shocks in your first job. After all, everything is not tailor-made for you. For instance, you may have visualized your office as a dream office just as you get to see in films and glossy magazines & brochures. Remember, the size of your office is not as important as the size of your paycheck.
First job experiences are worth remembering forever. Let self-consciousness give way to confidence and move ahead with firm steps. As with everything else, keep your eyes and ears open always. Tread with care since it could either leave indelible scars or make you a star. Do things that you would be proud about and you will cherish the experience forever. Let your foundation be strong and it starts with your first job!
_________________________________________________________________
Copyright (c) 2005 by G Ram Kumar. All rights reserved.
About the Author
G Ram Kumar works with Juno Online, one of the top Internet Service Provider in the US. Prior to this, he had a short stint with ICICI Bank, India's largest private sector bank. He is very passionate about his work and keen observer of people around him.
A voracious reader since his teens, Ram became interested in writing. It was just a case of taking hobby too seriously and the efforts culminated in Your First Job for everyone interested in career development. His keen sense of observation and interactions with many executives came handy in the concept and design of this book.
Ram's first book "FAQs in Interviews" published by Independentbook.com was well-received.
Ram is an MCA and also he is certified by Cisco Systems Inc, USA as Cisco Certified Network Associate.
Ram Kumar is one of the founder trustees of SKetch, a South India-based NGO involved in women education and empowerment initiatives and sits on the board of the Governing Council of Trustees of SKetch.
Coming it may as surprise to readers, the author of this book is just 25 yrs!
The Interviewable Resume
It is rumored that the only word William Shakespeare wrote on his resume was "Available." We'll probably never know if that is true. But it raises an interesting question. How much information is too much and how much is too little when dealing with resume copy?
The resume is a vital piece to any job search. As companies scramble to find the ideal candidate, they use the resume to screen candidates. Done right, a resume builds an instant connection with the reader and helps steer the course of the interview in your favor. If you submit a resume that piques the curiosity of the reader, he or she most likely will ask questions based on the information you provided on the resume as opposed to relying on a pre-packaged questionnaire. That's how you know you have an "interviewable" resume, when it assists in shaping the course of the interview.
The challenge is, How does one create an "interviewable" resume, one that isn't boring or sterile? How does one write a resume that motivates the reader to give you a call?
Write with the employer in mind
Cast aside the belief that the resume is about you ? because it isn't. Though the resume is your "story", the heart of it should focus on the needs of the employer. When developing your resume give thought to the person who will be reading it. What are his or her immediate concerns? How will you be able to solve that person's problems?
Though it may be difficult to pin down a company's immediate concerns before an interview, the reality is that organizations recruit candidates for one of the following reasons: they need to replace an unproductive employee, a peak performer was promoted or left, or a new position has been created. A recruiter usually searches for a candidate who will produce certain results, one that is a skilled communicator and has a strong work ethic. If you are able to target your resume toward these key areas, you will, without a doubt, tap into the organization's concerns.
Choose your phrases carefully
Sentence starters and appropriate use of action words all determine whether the resume is "interviewable." Instead of using predictable phrases, think of ways to add punch to your resume. For example, instead of using increased sales by 250%?write delivered a 250% increase in sales?; instead of using ability to effectively?write demonstrated ability to effectively?; and instead of using reduced costs?write slashed costs.
When your resume doesn't "sound" like all the others on the recruiter's desk, he or she will take notice. You will be remembered when your resume breaks the monotony of the recruiter's day. Guaranteed.
Have a consistent message
Don't try to become all things to all people. If you are a CEO, don't add a statement that indicates that you are willing to be a Business Manager. If you are a Sales Manager, don't indicate that you are willing to take on a position as a Customer Service Representative. Get the picture? Determine what you are selling (and looking for) before you put one word to paper.
Determine your major selling points
Though you may share the same job title with many other people, your accomplishments and how you carry out your responsibilities are what distinguishes you from all the other qualified candidates. Focus your resume on not only what you did but also how well you did it. By design, what makes you "interviewable" is how you market your strengths on paper.
About The Author
Recognized as a career expert, Linda Matias brings a wealth of experience to the career services field. She has been sought out for her knowledge of the employment market, outplacement, job search strategies, interview preparation, and resume writing, quoted a number of times in The Wall Street Journal, New York Newsday, Newsweek, and HR-esource.com. She is President of CareerStrides and the National Resume Writers' Association. Visit her website at www.careerstrides.com or email her at linda@careerstrides.com
The resume is a vital piece to any job search. As companies scramble to find the ideal candidate, they use the resume to screen candidates. Done right, a resume builds an instant connection with the reader and helps steer the course of the interview in your favor. If you submit a resume that piques the curiosity of the reader, he or she most likely will ask questions based on the information you provided on the resume as opposed to relying on a pre-packaged questionnaire. That's how you know you have an "interviewable" resume, when it assists in shaping the course of the interview.
The challenge is, How does one create an "interviewable" resume, one that isn't boring or sterile? How does one write a resume that motivates the reader to give you a call?
Write with the employer in mind
Cast aside the belief that the resume is about you ? because it isn't. Though the resume is your "story", the heart of it should focus on the needs of the employer. When developing your resume give thought to the person who will be reading it. What are his or her immediate concerns? How will you be able to solve that person's problems?
Though it may be difficult to pin down a company's immediate concerns before an interview, the reality is that organizations recruit candidates for one of the following reasons: they need to replace an unproductive employee, a peak performer was promoted or left, or a new position has been created. A recruiter usually searches for a candidate who will produce certain results, one that is a skilled communicator and has a strong work ethic. If you are able to target your resume toward these key areas, you will, without a doubt, tap into the organization's concerns.
Choose your phrases carefully
Sentence starters and appropriate use of action words all determine whether the resume is "interviewable." Instead of using predictable phrases, think of ways to add punch to your resume. For example, instead of using increased sales by 250%?write delivered a 250% increase in sales?; instead of using ability to effectively?write demonstrated ability to effectively?; and instead of using reduced costs?write slashed costs.
When your resume doesn't "sound" like all the others on the recruiter's desk, he or she will take notice. You will be remembered when your resume breaks the monotony of the recruiter's day. Guaranteed.
Have a consistent message
Don't try to become all things to all people. If you are a CEO, don't add a statement that indicates that you are willing to be a Business Manager. If you are a Sales Manager, don't indicate that you are willing to take on a position as a Customer Service Representative. Get the picture? Determine what you are selling (and looking for) before you put one word to paper.
Determine your major selling points
Though you may share the same job title with many other people, your accomplishments and how you carry out your responsibilities are what distinguishes you from all the other qualified candidates. Focus your resume on not only what you did but also how well you did it. By design, what makes you "interviewable" is how you market your strengths on paper.
About The Author
Recognized as a career expert, Linda Matias brings a wealth of experience to the career services field. She has been sought out for her knowledge of the employment market, outplacement, job search strategies, interview preparation, and resume writing, quoted a number of times in The Wall Street Journal, New York Newsday, Newsweek, and HR-esource.com. She is President of CareerStrides and the National Resume Writers' Association. Visit her website at www.careerstrides.com or email her at linda@careerstrides.com
Job Search Tip for College Students
Today everyone is looking for that special job that will suit their exact needs. In this day and age we all have circumstances, situations, obligations, etc. that make demands on our time and energy. In most cases students will get a job that will give them enough money to pay for the fuel for their car and a few nights out, assuming they even have a night off.
Why should any student who is studying hard and working hard, and building up a huge debt in the process, spend what little available time they have left slaving away for someone else with minimal payback? The answer is simple. That's the way it has always been. Employers know that they can get cheap labor that can add and subtract, converse if necessary, sell, stock, clean, and on and on for very little pay or benefits. This is because the jobs that pay more and offer more are only available to someone they think will stay with them for a while and not be a transient for just a few months.
However, today there is a way around this dilemma faced by thousands of students everywhere. It really is possible to make the money they need, have time to study, develop a social life, and at the same time build something for their future. That last one is something they can't even begin to think about in their current job situations.
OK, so just what is this super magical answer you ask. Well it's nothing that new or different. It simply isn't usually thought of as an answer for students. However, I believe that it is perfectly suited for the situation. Students who are reliable, honest, and serious are the very ones who are geared up and ready to take the initiative of setting the wheels of their future in motion while taking care of today's needs. They are already multitasking on a daily basis.
Why should they work for pennies for someone else when they could be in business for themselves? Yes, you read it correctly. They could decide when to work, when to have time off, when to give themselves a pay increase. While doing all of this they would also be able to build an income that could be there for them in the future.
Sound impossible? Quite the contrary. Today it is more than possible, it's fact. The truth is they have a choice today that allows them to choose the direction of their life rather than passively letting things happen. They also are savvier in general and ready to take that plunge that could change their present situation. All they need is the right vehicle. I strongly believe that vehicle goes by the name of Network Marketing. There are numerous ones out there and some are better than others. All it takes is a look-see in order to decide if it's the right one.
Thanks for your time and attention, and I hope you are able to find your place, Bill.
Most of my adult life I have been self-employed. I have never come across anything else that would allow an individual to develop a good income with little investment and not have the expenses, stress, boss, time constraints, and worries that go along with most other businesses or jobs. Who needs a job when you can work for yourself? I am quite serious about this and I am always ready, willing, and able to assist anyone who is honest, reliable, serious, and over eighteen, to find their place. If you are interested in knowing more, you may call me toll free: 866-645-1193. I live in the Eastern US time zone.
Why should any student who is studying hard and working hard, and building up a huge debt in the process, spend what little available time they have left slaving away for someone else with minimal payback? The answer is simple. That's the way it has always been. Employers know that they can get cheap labor that can add and subtract, converse if necessary, sell, stock, clean, and on and on for very little pay or benefits. This is because the jobs that pay more and offer more are only available to someone they think will stay with them for a while and not be a transient for just a few months.
However, today there is a way around this dilemma faced by thousands of students everywhere. It really is possible to make the money they need, have time to study, develop a social life, and at the same time build something for their future. That last one is something they can't even begin to think about in their current job situations.
OK, so just what is this super magical answer you ask. Well it's nothing that new or different. It simply isn't usually thought of as an answer for students. However, I believe that it is perfectly suited for the situation. Students who are reliable, honest, and serious are the very ones who are geared up and ready to take the initiative of setting the wheels of their future in motion while taking care of today's needs. They are already multitasking on a daily basis.
Why should they work for pennies for someone else when they could be in business for themselves? Yes, you read it correctly. They could decide when to work, when to have time off, when to give themselves a pay increase. While doing all of this they would also be able to build an income that could be there for them in the future.
Sound impossible? Quite the contrary. Today it is more than possible, it's fact. The truth is they have a choice today that allows them to choose the direction of their life rather than passively letting things happen. They also are savvier in general and ready to take that plunge that could change their present situation. All they need is the right vehicle. I strongly believe that vehicle goes by the name of Network Marketing. There are numerous ones out there and some are better than others. All it takes is a look-see in order to decide if it's the right one.
Thanks for your time and attention, and I hope you are able to find your place, Bill.
Most of my adult life I have been self-employed. I have never come across anything else that would allow an individual to develop a good income with little investment and not have the expenses, stress, boss, time constraints, and worries that go along with most other businesses or jobs. Who needs a job when you can work for yourself? I am quite serious about this and I am always ready, willing, and able to assist anyone who is honest, reliable, serious, and over eighteen, to find their place. If you are interested in knowing more, you may call me toll free: 866-645-1193. I live in the Eastern US time zone.
Want to Work for Yourself? Those Dream Jobs Dont Just Happen, Theyre Created
While traveling in northern California last October, I happened to tune into a local newscast. The newscaster was telling his co-anchor that the speaker at that morning's Rotary Club meeting had to cut his presentation short because he was being flown down to Disneyland to carve elaborate Halloween pumpkins for the park festivities. The newscaster wrapped up the story with the familiar quip, "Nice work if you can get it." He got the first part right. For a creative kid-at-heart, being a professional pumpkin carver is a dream come true. It was his serendipitous "if you can get it" thinking that missed the mark. The fact is, people rarely "get" great work; they create it!
Despite all the emphasis on growth in the "job sector" I am continually amazed at just how many fascinating alternatives there are to the whole 9-to-5 schtick. And just as traditional job seekers can't wait around for "Mr. Job" to knock on the door, people who want to do satisfying work ? and call their own shots ? need to be proactive as well. Francis Bacon defined a wise man as one who "makes more opportunities than he finds." Here's a couple of other wise entrepreneurs who made it by going for it.
Sports-lover Don Shoenewald was just 18 when he went to the Philadelphia Eagles management wearing a homemade Eagle costume and asking for a mascot job. They weren't interested. Undaunted, Shoenewald kept showing up at Eagles football games. Pretty soon the fans adopted him as the unofficial (meaning, "unpaid") mascot. Thirteen paid team mascot jobs, four mascot character creations (including ones for the New Jersey Devils and the San Jose Sharks), and 18 years later, Shoenewald started Mascot Mania, the only professional training school for mascots in the world.
Despite what your high school guidance counselor might have told you, showing up invited in a bird costume isn't the only route to self-employment. For Dan Zawacki it all began when he was working as a sales rep for Honeywell and decided to give away 120 live lobsters as gifts to his customers. Dan was so bowled over by the response that he decided to open a small side business shipping live lobsters complete with pot, crackers, butter and bibs to crustacean-lovers from coast-to-coast. That is until his boss heard him pitching Lobster Gram, Inc. on a local radio station and promptly fired him.
In the beginning, Dan worked out of his bedroom, storing his lobsters in a used tank in his father's garage. His first year he netted only $4,000. Ten years later, his company sells about 9,000 lobster packages a year for $99 plus shipping. All and all, not a bad tale.
If you dream of making the transition from employee to self-bosser, the first thing you need to do is belief that you can. Then, the next time you see some entrepreneur doing what they love, try thinking: "Nice work ? now, all I have to do is get it!
"Off the beaten career path" consultant, Valerie Young, abandoned her corporate cubicle to become the Dreamer in Residence at http://www.ChangingCourse.com, offering free resources to help you discover your life mission and live it. Her career change tips have been cited The Wall Street Journal, USA Today Weekend, Redbook, Entrepreneur's Business Start Ups, and on-line at MSN, CareerBuilder, and iVillage.com. An expert on the Impostor Syndrome, she's presented her How to Feel as Bright and Capable as Everyone Seems to Think You Are program to thousands of people.
Despite all the emphasis on growth in the "job sector" I am continually amazed at just how many fascinating alternatives there are to the whole 9-to-5 schtick. And just as traditional job seekers can't wait around for "Mr. Job" to knock on the door, people who want to do satisfying work ? and call their own shots ? need to be proactive as well. Francis Bacon defined a wise man as one who "makes more opportunities than he finds." Here's a couple of other wise entrepreneurs who made it by going for it.
Sports-lover Don Shoenewald was just 18 when he went to the Philadelphia Eagles management wearing a homemade Eagle costume and asking for a mascot job. They weren't interested. Undaunted, Shoenewald kept showing up at Eagles football games. Pretty soon the fans adopted him as the unofficial (meaning, "unpaid") mascot. Thirteen paid team mascot jobs, four mascot character creations (including ones for the New Jersey Devils and the San Jose Sharks), and 18 years later, Shoenewald started Mascot Mania, the only professional training school for mascots in the world.
Despite what your high school guidance counselor might have told you, showing up invited in a bird costume isn't the only route to self-employment. For Dan Zawacki it all began when he was working as a sales rep for Honeywell and decided to give away 120 live lobsters as gifts to his customers. Dan was so bowled over by the response that he decided to open a small side business shipping live lobsters complete with pot, crackers, butter and bibs to crustacean-lovers from coast-to-coast. That is until his boss heard him pitching Lobster Gram, Inc. on a local radio station and promptly fired him.
In the beginning, Dan worked out of his bedroom, storing his lobsters in a used tank in his father's garage. His first year he netted only $4,000. Ten years later, his company sells about 9,000 lobster packages a year for $99 plus shipping. All and all, not a bad tale.
If you dream of making the transition from employee to self-bosser, the first thing you need to do is belief that you can. Then, the next time you see some entrepreneur doing what they love, try thinking: "Nice work ? now, all I have to do is get it!
"Off the beaten career path" consultant, Valerie Young, abandoned her corporate cubicle to become the Dreamer in Residence at http://www.ChangingCourse.com, offering free resources to help you discover your life mission and live it. Her career change tips have been cited The Wall Street Journal, USA Today Weekend, Redbook, Entrepreneur's Business Start Ups, and on-line at MSN, CareerBuilder, and iVillage.com. An expert on the Impostor Syndrome, she's presented her How to Feel as Bright and Capable as Everyone Seems to Think You Are program to thousands of people.
Resume Objectives ... The Hidden Pitfalls
Why Use Resume Objectives
Before we can discuss the pitfalls you first need to understand the reasons for including your resume objectives and how they relate to your resume and interview selection process.
Including an objectives section at the beginning of your resume provides a brief introduction to the purpose of the resume, highlighting your career objectives and the type of job you are seeking.
It is very common for job-seekers to include a brief objectives section at the beginning of their resume The objectives section can be an important part of a resume, and might be the first thing employers looks at. Therefore you should put considerable thought into constructing focused and clear objectives.
Look At These Resume Objective Examples
A resume objective does exactly what the name suggests; it highlights your objectives and states the type of job you are seeking.
Here are some examples of career objectives:
ท To obtain an elementary education teaching position with upward mobility to a principalship.
ท To obtain a position in manufacturing operations and development which will utilize acquired knowledge and collective experience.
ท Public relations writer for a large metropolitan hospital. ท Auditor position in the public accounting field in the Philadelphia area.
As you can see, the objectives are short and sweet; meaning they are to the point in describing the purpose of creating your resume.
Doorway To The Interview... Resumes
What is a resume... usually it is the first contact you have with potential employers. It is also where you list your skills and create a marketable presentation so that companies understand the benefits of employing you.
Your resume is also the first (and possibly the last!) opportunity you have to persuade your prospective employer to give you an interview.
Clearly... it is in your best interests to ensure your resume is compelling enough to leave the recruiter with no other option but to invite you to an interview.
If you want to learn more about writing resumes that get interviews, visit a site such as Top Career Resumes where you will find numerous articles and tips.
Or, if you prefer... a cost effective alternative is to use a resume writing service to prepare your resume for you.
Pitfalls of Using Resume Objectives
You may have noticed that all previous references to objectives focus on you and therein lies the pitfall !
Employers are not interested in what you want ...
If your objectives fail to match those of the employer, you will not even get to first base ! So keep your options open until you find out more about their objectives.
Some people decide to omit the objectives section and use that space to highlight other abilities and accomplishments. Whether you choose to use resume objectives or not will depend greatly on your particular situation.
Reasons Against ...
A few experts feel that the resume objectives section can be limiting to job seekers. It makes you be very specific as to your goals. This may be constraining if you want to be general and leave your options open.
Employers on average take only 30 seconds to look at a resume. The objectives section is the first thing that catches their eye. If you have a specific objective written, for example to obtain a managerial position, the manager may pass on your resume if he was looking for some other position.
If you are thinking about getting a professionally written resume, now would be a good time.
However, remember that the objectives section can disqualify you for jobs different from your stated objective... if you are not looking for a targeted job you can skip the section without many negative consequences.
It would be advisable to skip the resume objective section rather than be too vague. Unfocused objectives will put off many hiring managers. They may not end up looking at your experience and skills, which would of shown you to be a suitable candidate for the job.
Reasons For ...
If you do include your resume objectives, you should construct several different resumes, each specifically tailored to the job you are applying for. You will want to make your resume relevant to each job. The objectives section may be the best way to create job specific resumes.
A draw back of not including the objectives section is that a hiring manager may not be willing to search your resume to figure out your job objectives and goals... and may bypass your resume.
If you have a specific job position in mind and are clear about your objectives, this section can be useful in informing potential employers about your reasons for applying.
In either case, it may pay you to seek professional advice before you make your final decision. The modest cost of doing this pales into insignificance compared with the cost of making a poor career decision.
Stating Your Resume Objectives
This has greatest benefits for career changers and recent college graduates. Your objectives should be concise and to the point, to quickly inform employers about your background and goals.
Entry-level workers can state in their resume objectives that they are recent graduates looking for positions in their particular field. Career changers should state how they can use their previously earned skills to make a transition into their new career.
Be Employer Focused
An alternative to resume objectives might be the 'Qualifications Summary' section. This is a section where you can briefly discuss your skills and how you intend to use them.
This can make your resume more employer focused, as the employer wants to find out what you can do for them. This might be more beneficial than having a self-focused resume, simply listing what you want to do.
Many employers prefer to have employees that are focused on their goals and motivated to achieving them. A well presented objective can be just the high-impact tool that can get a hiring manager's attention from the start.
Finally ...
When writing your resume objectives you have to consider your career plans. If you have not already done so, now would be a good time to get assistance with career assessment and planning.
When you have completed your planning and taken some time to match your interests with your chosen career, your resume objectives should complement the results you obtained through your searches.
Roger Clark (BSc) has over 25 years experience in career development & recruitment at a senior level through top management positions he has held with major international companies.
You can visit his "Top Career Resumes" website for a wealth of top quality information relating to the employment market.
http://www.top-career-resumes.com
http://www.top-career-resumes.com/resume-objectives
Before we can discuss the pitfalls you first need to understand the reasons for including your resume objectives and how they relate to your resume and interview selection process.
Including an objectives section at the beginning of your resume provides a brief introduction to the purpose of the resume, highlighting your career objectives and the type of job you are seeking.
It is very common for job-seekers to include a brief objectives section at the beginning of their resume The objectives section can be an important part of a resume, and might be the first thing employers looks at. Therefore you should put considerable thought into constructing focused and clear objectives.
Look At These Resume Objective Examples
A resume objective does exactly what the name suggests; it highlights your objectives and states the type of job you are seeking.
Here are some examples of career objectives:
ท To obtain an elementary education teaching position with upward mobility to a principalship.
ท To obtain a position in manufacturing operations and development which will utilize acquired knowledge and collective experience.
ท Public relations writer for a large metropolitan hospital. ท Auditor position in the public accounting field in the Philadelphia area.
As you can see, the objectives are short and sweet; meaning they are to the point in describing the purpose of creating your resume.
Doorway To The Interview... Resumes
What is a resume... usually it is the first contact you have with potential employers. It is also where you list your skills and create a marketable presentation so that companies understand the benefits of employing you.
Your resume is also the first (and possibly the last!) opportunity you have to persuade your prospective employer to give you an interview.
Clearly... it is in your best interests to ensure your resume is compelling enough to leave the recruiter with no other option but to invite you to an interview.
If you want to learn more about writing resumes that get interviews, visit a site such as Top Career Resumes where you will find numerous articles and tips.
Or, if you prefer... a cost effective alternative is to use a resume writing service to prepare your resume for you.
Pitfalls of Using Resume Objectives
You may have noticed that all previous references to objectives focus on you and therein lies the pitfall !
Employers are not interested in what you want ...
If your objectives fail to match those of the employer, you will not even get to first base ! So keep your options open until you find out more about their objectives.
Some people decide to omit the objectives section and use that space to highlight other abilities and accomplishments. Whether you choose to use resume objectives or not will depend greatly on your particular situation.
Reasons Against ...
A few experts feel that the resume objectives section can be limiting to job seekers. It makes you be very specific as to your goals. This may be constraining if you want to be general and leave your options open.
Employers on average take only 30 seconds to look at a resume. The objectives section is the first thing that catches their eye. If you have a specific objective written, for example to obtain a managerial position, the manager may pass on your resume if he was looking for some other position.
If you are thinking about getting a professionally written resume, now would be a good time.
However, remember that the objectives section can disqualify you for jobs different from your stated objective... if you are not looking for a targeted job you can skip the section without many negative consequences.
It would be advisable to skip the resume objective section rather than be too vague. Unfocused objectives will put off many hiring managers. They may not end up looking at your experience and skills, which would of shown you to be a suitable candidate for the job.
Reasons For ...
If you do include your resume objectives, you should construct several different resumes, each specifically tailored to the job you are applying for. You will want to make your resume relevant to each job. The objectives section may be the best way to create job specific resumes.
A draw back of not including the objectives section is that a hiring manager may not be willing to search your resume to figure out your job objectives and goals... and may bypass your resume.
If you have a specific job position in mind and are clear about your objectives, this section can be useful in informing potential employers about your reasons for applying.
In either case, it may pay you to seek professional advice before you make your final decision. The modest cost of doing this pales into insignificance compared with the cost of making a poor career decision.
Stating Your Resume Objectives
This has greatest benefits for career changers and recent college graduates. Your objectives should be concise and to the point, to quickly inform employers about your background and goals.
Entry-level workers can state in their resume objectives that they are recent graduates looking for positions in their particular field. Career changers should state how they can use their previously earned skills to make a transition into their new career.
Be Employer Focused
An alternative to resume objectives might be the 'Qualifications Summary' section. This is a section where you can briefly discuss your skills and how you intend to use them.
This can make your resume more employer focused, as the employer wants to find out what you can do for them. This might be more beneficial than having a self-focused resume, simply listing what you want to do.
Many employers prefer to have employees that are focused on their goals and motivated to achieving them. A well presented objective can be just the high-impact tool that can get a hiring manager's attention from the start.
Finally ...
When writing your resume objectives you have to consider your career plans. If you have not already done so, now would be a good time to get assistance with career assessment and planning.
When you have completed your planning and taken some time to match your interests with your chosen career, your resume objectives should complement the results you obtained through your searches.
Roger Clark (BSc) has over 25 years experience in career development & recruitment at a senior level through top management positions he has held with major international companies.
You can visit his "Top Career Resumes" website for a wealth of top quality information relating to the employment market.
http://www.top-career-resumes.com
http://www.top-career-resumes.com/resume-objectives
Lost Your Job? Ten Ways to Bounce Back!
Whether you've been right-sized, downsized, underutilized, or just plain fired, looking for work is a life-changing experience that rocks your world. Regain your equilibrium with these ten strategies and get back to being your best.
1. Take time to grieve for what is lost. Losing a job is big. Find a way to acknowledge the loss. What ritual could you perform or symbol could you use to say goodbye to the past? What positive habit could you develop to help you transition to the future?
2. Admit your feelings. This helps you gauge where you are in the process and help you determine what next step to take. Typically you feel anger, sadness, fear, embarrassment, loss of confidence, and more-and that's normal!
3. Write about your fears, dreams, hopes, and losses. Getting it down on paper helps you make sense of the change and put it into perspective.
4. Look for the humor in the situation. Humor is transformational. It heals us and changes the way we view a situation and our attitude toward it. Open your heart and mind to the humor in everyday life.
5. Appreciate the neutral zone for what it is, a fallow time full of uncertainty and possibility. You can't will-power your way through this period; it takes as long as it takes. This transition can be a period of both chaos and great creativity.
6. Reframe your experience and seek to reinvent yourself. Ask, "How else can I look at this?" What future door opened when this door closed? How can you reinvent yourself?
7. Change your vocabulary. Choose powerful words rather than powerless words. Keep a list of powerful words posted nearby and refer to them often. Notice how your feelings change when you say:
* "I can" instead of "I have to."
* "I have choices" instead of "I have no options."
* "This is an opportunity" instead of "I have a problem."
* "I see success around the corner" instead of "I am a failure."
* "I can hardly wait!" instead of "I am dreading?"
8. Ask for help when you need it. We all need the help and support of family and friends at various points in our lives. Use your support system and seek outside help when you feel overwhelmed.
9. Cut yourself and everyone else some slack. We are all human. In times of stress and change, we are bound to make mistakes. Accept and forgive your own mistakes and those of others so that you can focus on the important things.
10. Dare to dream again! Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage. Develop the courage to build a new dream.
Mary Jeanne Vincent is the author of Acing the Interview tip cards featuring answers to the top 20 "killer" interview questions. Also included are tips for interviewing in the new economy, ideas for responding to illegal and trick questions, and suggestions for avoiding 10 deadly interview mistakes.
Go to http://www.2bworkwise.com for free job search articles and to sign up for the free WorkWise e-zine. For information on individual job and career coaching or to find out about other practical, easy-to-use career tools call Mary Jeanne at 831.657.9151.
1. Take time to grieve for what is lost. Losing a job is big. Find a way to acknowledge the loss. What ritual could you perform or symbol could you use to say goodbye to the past? What positive habit could you develop to help you transition to the future?
2. Admit your feelings. This helps you gauge where you are in the process and help you determine what next step to take. Typically you feel anger, sadness, fear, embarrassment, loss of confidence, and more-and that's normal!
3. Write about your fears, dreams, hopes, and losses. Getting it down on paper helps you make sense of the change and put it into perspective.
4. Look for the humor in the situation. Humor is transformational. It heals us and changes the way we view a situation and our attitude toward it. Open your heart and mind to the humor in everyday life.
5. Appreciate the neutral zone for what it is, a fallow time full of uncertainty and possibility. You can't will-power your way through this period; it takes as long as it takes. This transition can be a period of both chaos and great creativity.
6. Reframe your experience and seek to reinvent yourself. Ask, "How else can I look at this?" What future door opened when this door closed? How can you reinvent yourself?
7. Change your vocabulary. Choose powerful words rather than powerless words. Keep a list of powerful words posted nearby and refer to them often. Notice how your feelings change when you say:
* "I can" instead of "I have to."
* "I have choices" instead of "I have no options."
* "This is an opportunity" instead of "I have a problem."
* "I see success around the corner" instead of "I am a failure."
* "I can hardly wait!" instead of "I am dreading?"
8. Ask for help when you need it. We all need the help and support of family and friends at various points in our lives. Use your support system and seek outside help when you feel overwhelmed.
9. Cut yourself and everyone else some slack. We are all human. In times of stress and change, we are bound to make mistakes. Accept and forgive your own mistakes and those of others so that you can focus on the important things.
10. Dare to dream again! Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage. Develop the courage to build a new dream.
Mary Jeanne Vincent is the author of Acing the Interview tip cards featuring answers to the top 20 "killer" interview questions. Also included are tips for interviewing in the new economy, ideas for responding to illegal and trick questions, and suggestions for avoiding 10 deadly interview mistakes.
Go to http://www.2bworkwise.com for free job search articles and to sign up for the free WorkWise e-zine. For information on individual job and career coaching or to find out about other practical, easy-to-use career tools call Mary Jeanne at 831.657.9151.
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