best home jobs tips

Searching for jobs you can do from home used to be a matter of scanning the Sunday classifieds for offers to get rich quick by stuffing envelopes.

Now, exposure to at-home employment opportunities has exploded, and a wide range of job ads are just a mouse click away. But so are the scams.

Two years ago, when The Rat Race Rebellion began tracking at-home jobs, there were 30 scams for every legitimate opportunity. Now, with 4,500 to 5,000 work-at-home job ads screened weekly, the Web site finds 57 phonies for every one that's for real, says Christine Durst, CEO of The Rat Race Rebellion.
Nevertheless, there's no shortage of people who dream of beating the odds and earning a living from home.

Durst, who is also CEO of Connecticut-based Staffcentrix, which develops home-based and virtual career training programs, says people interested in work-at-home jobs primarily are:

• Parents who say they want to spend more time with their children.
• Trailing military spouses who, according to Durst, by virtue of their spouse's career need to pick up and move every few years.
• Retirees needing supplemental income.
• People with disabilities.
• t's difficult to be a good parent and simultaneously work well at home, says Durst, because most jobs require blocks of uninterrupted time to accomplish tasks, and children's schedules are less than predictable. For those who do choose to walk the tightrope between paid work and parenting, consider deadline-oriented work. Durst says it's generally better for those with younger children than schedule-oriented hourly work.

  Steven Rothberg, president and founder of CollegeRecruiter.com, says "an increasing minority" of entry-level workers, are attracted to these gigs. He says he believes social introverts make good candidates. "They like working with people (but) they like interacting by e-mail and by being on the phone. They dislike working in person with a lot of others," he says, due to meetings and other "time-sucking problems" at an office.

  Self-motivation, discipline, job skills and independence are key characteristics for at-home workers, says Stephanie Foster of Poway, Calif., a former medical transcriptionist who runs the Web site Homewiththekids.com.

  A growing number of employers appear to believe telecommuting is a good deal for them as well. It reduces overhead expenses, allows access to talented workers who may not be available locally, provides off-hours support and helps retain employees, says Sara Sutton Fell, CEO of FlexJobs.com, a Web site that aggregates hand-screened telecommuting/work-at-home jobs. "We've seen a real broadening of the audience of both employers and job seekers."

  Consider these 10 jobs -- some rather traditional and others unexpected -- for interesting at-home work and good (if competitive) prospects.

  1. Virtual Assistant

  This is a field with much potential, in part because the title description covers many things. "You can fit your offerings to what you know how to do," says Foster. One can own a virtual assistant business or work from home for a company that makes you available to other employees or clients. Homewiththekids.com, for example, currently features a dozen such companies. Small businesses hire virtual assistants to help when they can't justify a permanent employee. The International Virtual Assistants Association, which Durst co-founded in the 1990s, began with 28 members and has grown to more than 600, who charge from $15 per hour to more than $100 per hour.

  2. Medical Transcriptionist

  As Foster knows, being a medical receptionist is a demanding job, and nearly every company listed on her site seeks applicants with experience and/or training from certain schools. The work involves listening to and typing up dictation from doctors -- some of whom have difficult accents, slur words together, and even "eat, drink, chew gum (and) talk to other people in the room" while dictating, she says. But hearing about medical matters can be interesting, and good transcriptionists are in very high demand. Expect initial earnings of less than $10 per hour, but some transcriptionists earn $20 or more per hour.

  3. Translator

  Those with fluency in more than one language translate audio files or documents, not just word for word but often with cultural differences in mind. "Companies can access home-based translators with hard-to-find language skills without being held back by geographic location," says Fell.

  Foster's site lists 15 companies that seek home-based translators. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook 2008-09, which groups translators and interpreters, notes a projected employment increase of 24 percent over the 2006-to-2016 decade, much faster than the average for all occupations.

  The national mean hourly wage for translators and interpreters was $20.74, with a mean annual wage of $43,130 as of May 2008, according to estimates by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Some industries pay significantly higher, with the highest paying jobs generally in the management, scientific and technical consulting services areas, in which the mean hourly wage was $56.50 and the annual mean wage was $117,530.

  4. Web Developer/Designer

  Information technology is the sector, Durst says, where most of the home-based hiring is being done. Terri Orlowski, a virtual assistant and Web developer based in Ledyard, Conn., offers services such as custom Web site design, template modification and redesigns, code updates, hosting, and usability reviews. She previously held administrative positions in a variety of industries, and makes a higher per-hour rate now. The job is in high demand. Of the more than 15,000 new monthly work-from-home job postings on Odesk.com, Web developers are in the greatest demand, says spokeswoman Elizabeth Gordon. A list of companies that post at-home tech jobs is available at ratracerebellion.com.

  5. Call Center Representative

  When you phone to order something from a catalog or infomercial, a big office with rows of cubicles may come to mind. But the person on the other end of the line is likely to be sitting in a home office. "It's a huge and growing industry," says Durst of companies that hire independent contractors to take calls from home. She says the "home-shore movement" started in response to complaints about the many companies that looked offshore for workers. While some Web sites, such as Alpineaccess.com, actually hire representatives, most use subcontractors. Just be aware that the pay may be by the minute rather than by the hour, so you may not be paid for time you spend waiting by the phone. A list of companies that hire call center reps can be found at Homewiththekids.com.

  6. Tech Support Specialist

  Call centers also hire technical support specialists to work remotely. Kate Lister, co-author of "Undress for Success: The Naked Truth About Making Money at Home," names it as one of her top three "best-bet work-at-home jobs." And according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, jobs for computer support specialists (on-site and remote combined) were expected to increase by 13 percent from 2006 to 2016 -- much faster than the average for all occupations -- with 71,000 new jobs.

  7. Travel Agent

  Scams abound in the travel industry -- particularly organizations that charge for information on how to break into the field. But operating a home-based travel agency can be an excellent business, says Tom Ogg of the Home Based Travel Agent Information Center. "Real home-based travel agents have experienced robust growth over the last decade, and there are probably around 35,000 of them and growing." A growing (although small) number of people earn $100,000 or more a year, he says. "A solid business concept and plan focused on profitability will take you a long way to achieving your monetary goals." There's also the joy of helping others enjoy their leisure time.

  8. Teacher

  From postsecondary education to elementary schools, there are opportunities for students to learn virtually. Along with that, come opportunities to teach (and tutor) virtually. While distance learning is not new, advanced technology, collaborative multimedia software designed for schools and high-speed Internet connections have created more opportunities for teachers and students to work together from afar, says Fell. Durst has also noticed more teacher jobs being posted, and she knows of one professor who works mainly online and makes six figures -- although income "depends on how many hours you're applying to it and the type of classes you're teaching." A resource center for online teaching jobs is available at GetEducated.com.

  9. Writer/Editor

  Yes, the print publishing industry has been suffering, but Durst is seeing frequent listings these days for writing, editing and proofreading, particularly for the Web. Even those without writing experience can join the blogosphere. Not only can blogging be lots of fun, Foster says, but also there's money to be earned blogging for someone else's site, getting paid to post on your own blog or through revenue-sharing arrangements. A list of blogging opportunities, for which the pay range is less than $5 per post to more than $20 per post, can be found at Homewiththekids.com.

  10. Franchise Owner

  It's a no-brainer: Owning a business can be the road to at-home work. For an initial investment, franchises may offer a ready-made business with brand awareness, a system and a territory, says Leslie Truex, founder of the Web site Work-At-Home Success. She advises considering businesses that target the over-50 crowd or the self-employed, involve health and wellness, relate to the "green" movement, or involve electronic or online devices (i.e., accessories, applications).

is your dream job worth it

With job security a thing of the past, you may be fantasizing about opening that doggie daycare business you've always dreamed of or training to become a pastry chef.

But before you give up your steady paycheck -- or sink your unemployment checks into training or startup costs -- you need to know what you're getting into.

"The biggest mistake a person can make is to jump into a new field because it 'sounds cool,'" said Alexandra Levit, author of How'd You Score That Gig? A Guide to the Coolest Jobs (and How to Get Them). "You have to do your homework."

Researching salary, job requirements, and employment outlook through sites like the Occupational Outlook Handbook and Path101 is just the tip of the iceberg, Levit said. Testing the waters to see if you even like wrangling dogs or baking cakes five days a week is also essential.

To try before you buy, "Look for a part-time internship or volunteer position in your new field, or sign up for an adult education class or workshop," Levit suggested. Other homework: Networking online and off to find people with your dream career who will give you the inside scoop over a cup of coffee (your treat!) or let you shadow them for a day.

While we can't help you with the field testing, we can jumpstart your research. Herewith, a sneak peek at some salaries, job outlooks, and insider details of seven of the most coveted careers.

1. Web entrepreneur. The beauty of starting a Web business is that you can do it on a shoestring. Just ask Michelle Madhok of New York, who founded the online shopping empire SheFinds.com in 2004. "I only paid $500 for the first website," Madhok said. "All in all, I probably spent about $20,000 on lawyers, insurance, trademarks, and government documents." And while Madhok isn't earning as much as she did in her last day job, the rewards of being her own boss are "more fulfilling than any corporate paycheck could ever be."
Web project manager, median annual salary: $63,182.

2. Winemaker. Cash-strapped consumers may be eating in more, but that hasn't stopped them from enjoying a glass of wine with dinner. A recent study by wine marketing firm VinterActive reported that U.S. wineries expect consumer sales to increase by 5 to 10 percent in 2009. For aspiring vintners, a love of the vine and taking some classes in the trade are a must. Most pay their dues by harvesting grapes at a winery or working in a wine-country tasting room before being charged with making more technical decisions that affect the flavor and quality of the wine. Winemaker, median annual salary: $57,723.

3. Doggie daycare owner. With pets living in 63 percent of all U.S. households, according to a Lifetime Networks survey, and many pet owners continuing to spend on their four-legged friends despite the recession, there's ample opportunity in pet care. But running a doggie daycare center is more than rubbing bellies, handing out treats, and wrangling the pack. "As much as you are working with animals for a living, you are also working with their owners," says Erika Teschke, owner of Erika's Pet Service, a pet sitting and dog walking company in Seattle. In other words, people skills are a must.
Dog sitter, median annual salary: $44,181.

4. Voiceover artist. As with acting, the competition for the voiceover work you hear in commercials, radio, TV, film, video games, and corporate videos can be daunting. Honing your craft with a vocal coach or in an acting or voiceover training workshop is a must. So is creating a professional demo recording -- which will run you anywhere from several hundred to a several thousand dollars. While many voiceover artists boost their rate by joining the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists or the Screen Actors Guild, union membership is not necessary to work in the field.
Voice-over talent, median annual salary: $45,317.

5. Forensic scientist. Forensic scientists often work in crime scene labs, analyzing DNA, fingerprints, weapons, and other evidence, and sometimes testifying in court. At minimum, a two-year science degree is required, though a four-year degree will get you farther. According to the BLS, job growth in the field is on the rise. But don't be fooled into thinking forensic science looks anything like it does on CSI. Forensic scientists do far more paperwork than their TV counterparts, and they don't interrogate suspects or have holographic computer programs to do all their work for them.
Forensic scientist, median annual salary: $55,037.

6. Pastry chef. As with alcohol, sweets remain in high demand during recessions, according to the New York Times article, "When Economy Sours, Tootsie Rolls Soothe Souls." If you're hoping to cash in on the country's collective sweet tooth by becoming a pastry chef, getting a solid education at a baking school or pastry chef college can help give you a competitive edge. Restaurants, bakeries, and hotels all hire pastry chefs, and some go into business for themselves. But the job isn't all frosted-pink roses: Pastry chefs are on their feet much of the workday. And depending where they work, their day may begin at 3 or 4 in the morning.
Pastry chef, median annual salary: $41,288.

7. Travel writer. Recent media cutbacks have made travel writing gigs much harder to find. But for those willing to hustle, "Freelance opportunities seem to be on the rise, as staffs dwindle," says freelance travel writer and instructor Amanda Castleman. "Many folks are creating their own platforms: blogs, e-zines, and online destination guides." That's not to say it's an easy life. "My typical itinerary for a 'leisure adventure' story may include 30 minutes of downtime from 6:30 am to midnight," says freelance travel writer Crai Bower. "We are also alone for a huge amount of our time so, six-course meal or not, it gets old. All this said, would I do anything else? No bloody way!"
Writer, median annual salary: $48,888.

best sales jobs tips

"I'm not interested in sales."

How many times have I heard that statement from job seekers in every industry -- even though, as business professionals, we're involved in some aspect of presenting (or "selling") ourselves and our ideas every day?

While I respect that not everyone is cut out to live the fast-paced, people-centric life of a sales person, just about every job candidate can benefit from a sales expert's insights, particularly when it comes to managing business relationships. By developing those skills yourself -- or by working with a recruiting service that understands the methods of successful selling -- you can make the most of your job-search process.

Here's a short three-step process to successful sales relationship management:

Prospect

To excel at sales, you first must know your product, and then search out the perfect customers for that product. As a job candidate -- your product is both you and your experience and skills. So the task here is two-fold:

• You must identify what you specifically can offer to an employer that sets you apart from other candidates, and
• You must identify the employers that would be a good match for what you have to offer.

In many cases, working with a recruiting service that helps you analyze your specific abilities and helps present your experience effectively can jumpstart your career search process. Try to create an engaging profile of yourself that goes beyond a simple resume, so that a prospective employer can get a sense of your style and your personality. In other words, make yourself memorable!

In addition, take advantage of services that allow you to narrow your search to the kind of companies who truly match your interests. You already know you don't want to work "just anywhere" -- so don't consider positions that aren't a good fit for you.

Contact

The second powerful tool for sales professionals is their contact process, or how they go about initiating a conversation with their prospective customers. This skill is also critical to your job search. Mass emailing your resume to every job available -- sometimes to multiple postings at the same company (I've seen it happen!) is not the recipe for success. Instead, each prospect should be considered individually -- whether it's a cutting edge online startup or a centuries-old bricks and mortar firm. By tailoring your message to match your prospect, you show respect and understanding -- and communicate that you value them as a partner in the search process.

Follow Up

Finally, the smart sales person is always "on" when it comes to conscientious follow-up. Similarly, a timely, thoughtful contact plan after each interview is essential for you to keep communication open with your key prospects -- particularly if you are considering multiple employers at the same time, which is frequently the case in today's job search process. At Climber.com, we provide candidates with a sophisticated contact management interface, but you can also set this up through your own email/calendaring service.

The Bottom Line: No matter what your field, when it comes to the job search process, you can give yourself an edge over the competition by taking a page out of the sales professional's handbook. Take the time to develop a true sales plan for prospecting, contacting, and following up with employers, or work with a job search service to help present you effectively. It can not only make a difference in how quickly you'll land a job -- it can help ensure you land the right position, as well.

best job in green environment

Of President Obama's $787 billion stimulus package, an impressive $40 billion will be spent on the creation of "green jobs," jobs that have a positive impact on the environment. This should come as great news to job seekers. Many are getting on board for a green career. Some facts you may want to consider:

• Opportunities for green careers are growing, and can be found across the nation.
• Contrary to popular belief, green jobs are not just for scientists and PhDs.
• Many traditional jobs are being given a green makeover.
• Building and manufacturing are popular sectors, but green jobs also include retail, science, and agriculture.

The U.S. is currently seeing an expansion of two-year college programs focusing on green careers. Many students are betting on a boom in the green-collar job industry -- careers they can train for without a four-year degree. With the right training, you can green your own career. Below are some of the most exciting green careers and information on how to train for them.

HVACR Mechanic and Installer

As part of the green building sector, many buildings are being retrofitted to save energy and meet new environmental standards. Heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration workers today can specialize in solar power installation, for example, and find their niche in the green industry.
Career Training: Technical school training such as a diploma in HVACR installation and repair, with certification in EPA standards, is a solid route to success in this field.
Job Outlook: Job growth for the profession as a whole is about as fast as average. It is hard to say how much more growth one can expect for green specialties, but considering overall job growth in green industries, the outlook certainly seems favorable.
Average Annual Salary: $42,240.

Construction Manager

Oversee green development as a construction manager and be on the front lines of the green revolution. Construction managers, also called project managers, help coordinate and plan projects of all kinds, from residential and industrial buildings to water treatment plants, bridges, and roads.
Career Training: A bachelor's degree in civil engineering or construction management is preferred by most employers, and hands-on experience in the construction area is a must.
Job Outlook: Faster than average at 16 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Average Annual Salary: $89,770.

Environmental Engineer

Environmental engineers tackle such problems as air and water pollution, waste disposal, recycling, and public health concerns. Many work as consultants, advising clients on safe environmental practices and compliance regulation issues.
Career Training: A bachelor's degree in engineering, with a specialty in environmental engineering, will likely be required for most entry-level positions.
Job Outlook: Environmental engineers are expected to see the fastest job growth of all the engineering specialties. Growth of 25 percent is projected over the next seven years.
Average Annual Salary: The BLS reports that starting salaries for engineers are among the highest of all college graduates. Environmental engineer salaries on average are $77,970.

Electrician

Many electricians are self-employed or work in the construction industry. With the boom of green construction, this could be good news for those entering the field.
Career Training: You may be able to start at a more advanced level if you begin your training early through vocational education. An associate's degree in electrical trades or electronics technology, for example, might be one way to prepare for a career as an electrician. Most electricians go on to complete an apprenticeship in order to solidify their skills and training.
Job Outlook: About as fast as average, according to the BLS. Opportunities will be good for those with the widest range of experience.
Average Annual Salary: $49,890.

Sales Manager

Sustainable, eco-friendly products of all kinds are being made available to consumers, and are more in demand as buyers become more aware of environmental issues. Sales managers coordinate a company's sales efforts, train and advise salespeople, and collect valuable market research about customer's preferences.
Career Training: Many employers prefer a bachelor's or master's degree with an emphasis on marketing. It is more and more common for schools to offer special degrees for green job seekers, for example, a bachelor's degree in business with a specialty in green and sustainable enterprise management.
Job Outlook: 12 percent growth, or about as fast as average. Job competition is keen, so opportunities will be best for those with the right career training.
Average Annual Salary: $110,390

Plant the seed today for your green career, and watch it grow into a healthy, lush future.

Patricia Cecil-Reed is a writer based in Brooklyn, NY. She holds a B.A. in literature from Sarah Lawrence College.

finding path to your carrier

Want to get ahead at work or land that job you've been eyeing? It's time to do something that might initially make you uncomfortable: Brag.

"Today, bragging is a necessity, not a choice," says Peggy Klaus, Fortune 500 communication and leadership coach, and author of Brag! The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn Without Blowing It. "Staying quiet about your achievements only leads to being underappreciated and overlooked."

But there's a fine line between tooting your horn and blowing it so loudly people cringe. Follow these five tips from Klaus to master the art of self-promotion:

1. Get comfortable with it. "For most people, self-promotion is about as comfortable as having a root canal," says Klaus. "But it doesn't have to be obnoxious and overbearing, or a laundry list of 'I, I, I.'" Her advice: Talk about yourself and your accomplishments in a conversational, story-like manner. The more you do it, the less forced it will feel.

2. Create a brag bag. Klaus advises clients to keep a brag bag -- a running collection of easily accessible information about your best self. A brag bag includes your accomplishments, passions, interests, and colorful details that underscore who you are professionally and personally. Bring out these gems for everything from performance reviews to new client presentations -- and don't forget to emphasize them in your resume.

Take a free resume test to ensure that you are highlighting your accomplishments to good effect.

3. Prepare until you're bragalicious. Whether you're getting ready for a job interview, networking event or any gathering where you need to shine, the trick is to prepare so you'll be at your natural best. "Crafting creative, memorable messages and stories about yourself and accomplishments is at the heart of your bragging campaign," says Klaus. Don't wing it: Rehearse important points and stories so you're not groping for words or stumbling along.

4. Borrow a move from athletes. To be at their best, athletes study their performances on video. So should you. Klaus suggests having a friend record you in a mock interview, presentation, or whatever event you're preparing for. When you play back the video, examine how you come across. Does what you said sound interesting, unique and compelling? If not, reach into your brag bag for new nuggets to set you apart.

5. Don't forget your attitude. You can say all the right things, but if you're not excited about your work and accomplishments, your bragging campaign will go nowhere. "People want to listen to others who are excited about who they are, what they do, and what they are saying," Klaus says. You don't have to be an over-the-top cheerleader. Just realize how much you have to offer, and the enthusiasm should follow.

Take a free career interest test to help you identify all the brag-worthy qualities you have to offer.

tips of job hunting

Finding a job isn't easy for anyone in this market, but for job hunters with disabilities, the search can seem especially daunting.

"There is a tendency among people to make assumptions," said Dan Ryan of the University of Buffalo, author of the "Job Search Handbook for People with Disabilities." Interviewers may be uncomfortable or worry that a disability in one area will carry over into others.

Ryan and other experts offer these tips for making sure a disability doesn't stand in the way of getting a job:

* Keep the focus on what you can do -- not what you can't.

All job seekers must convince an interviewer that they're up to the job requirements. If you need to ask for an accommodation, phrase it in positive terms: "As long as I'm able to get my wheelchair in the door, I can attend the meeting."

Interviewers are always more convinced by someone who offers a detailed plan than by someone who just says, "Sure, I can do that." So explain not just that you can do the job, but how.

"Say you're required to go from Building A to Building C three or four times a day and you're sitting in a wheelchair. Explain how you will do it: 'I'll just roll my wheelchair up the ramp and do the job,'" said Gwen Ford, director of business management and program services for Project HIRED, a non-profit in San Jose, California, that helps people with disabilities find jobs.

* Discuss only what's necessary about your disability. If you're asked to an interview on the fifth floor of a building with no elevator and you can't get up the stairs, you'll need to explain that ahead of time. But "in most circumstances, the longer you put off disclosing your disability, the better off you are," Ryan said.

If your disability is visible, it might be better to briefly acknowledge it, Ryan said -- then move quickly to how you would do the work. "What you want to do is confront it and point out the fact that it doesn't affect your ability to do the job."

*Show, don't just tell. Point to previous jobs or -- if you don't have any -- internships or volunteer work. "Demonstrate that you can do the job," Ryan said. "It's true for everybody, but it's just that much more important" if you have a disability.

* Be confident. "The attitude of the job seeker has a huge impact on whether or not they get the job," Ryan said.

If you are self-conscious about your disability or feel like you don't have many job skills, try to boost your self-confidence before you interview. If you haven't held a job before, think of skills you have learned from hobbies. "They'll find out that they have more skills than they ever realized," Ford said.

*Educate yourself. Many groups and websites offer help for workers with disabilities.

The U.S. Department of Labor offers resources for job hunters with disabilities, including information on the Americans With Disabilities Act.

The Job Accommodation Network offers advice on workplace accommodations for a wide range of disabilities.

master in interview skill

he job interview is your proving ground, the place where you must demonstrate why you are the best person for the job. Making that powerful statement that you're the best of all the candidates requires the three Ps: Preparation, Presentation and Perception.

PREPARE PREPARE PREPARE

When you walk into an interview, the more prepared you are, the better the chances are that you'll succeed. Memorize everything you put on your resume and cover letter and be prepared to explain each item. But you should also be ready to talk about more than just yourself. Get to know your future employer.

Warren Davis, the Director of Recruiting and Employment for RadioShack, emphasizes this point. "Your resume and application are fair game. Candidates should study themselves and the company with whom they're interviewing."

Read industry trade magazines, visit the company web site, and do a company search on Yahoo! Finance to find current news about your prospective employer. Be prepared to demonstrate what you know about the company and the industry.

Michele Stagg, the Director of Human Resources at Banana Republic, says she is consistently impressed when candidates work their skills into the context of company news. "The more an informed candidate can tie past experience to the requirements of the job they are interviewing for, particularly in terms of what the company is doing, the better."

Another important part of preparation is making sure you look the part. Choosing what you wear is so important that it deserves its own article - Interview in Style.

PRESENTATION IS PARAMOUNT

Keep in mind that you are marketing yourself to everyone you meet. The more people you leave with a good impression, the better your chances are of being remembered. Project yourself as someone who is thoughtful, helpful, and prepared.

Effective presentation includes being in the right place, at the right time. If you're late for the interview, you could inadvertently tell your interviewer that you're not right for the job.

With 35 years of experience in HR, Peter Ackerson, Specialist Leader at Deloitte Consulting, has been directly involved in hiring hundreds of candidates. When it comes to job interviews, he's seen it all. "There's nothing worse than getting a call from someone who is hung up in traffic or went to the wrong office," he explains.

Once you arrive, introduce yourself to the receptionist and turn off that cell phone. "Having a phone go off during an interview is a real turn off," says Ackerson.

According to psychologist Albert Mehrabian, more than half of our communication is nonverbal or body language. Stagg agrees. "Body language is exceptionally important. Positive, upright and open body language shows self confidence and interest." During introductions give a firm handshake and then take a seat facing the interviewer.

When you go over your resume focus on your accomplishments instead of reiterating job descriptions. Presenting yourself as an active problem solver will show an employer that you can contribute and succeed in the role. Stagg agrees that this technique can make a fantastic impact. "Give very specific examples of your qualifications. If you have qualifications in financial analysis, give examples of projects you worked on where your analysis was necessary. Describe your experiences that tie in to your skills or qualifications. Even better, tell me how those will help you meet the requirements of the role you might fill in our company."

PERCEPTION IS KEY

The best way to know if your interviewer is getting what he needs is to ask questions. Susan Vobejda, the VP of Marketing at HotJobs elaborates, "When your interviewer asks you a complicated question, don't launch into your answer straightaway. Make certain you understand what is being asked." A clarifying question, or restating the question in your own words saves you from wasting your interviewer's time, and demonstrates that your are a careful listener. Asking the right questions can also demonstrate your ability to think strategically, and help you decide if the position is right for you. To that end, Stagg suggests ending the interview with this question: "What are you looking for in a candidate to fill this role?" If the answer turns out to be something that doesn't match your expectations, then you need to speak up.

Many candidates are so intimidated by the interview, they forget that the interviewer has a stake in seeing the candidate succeed. Peter Ackerson describes his attitude going into an interview as one of "hopeful skepticism." They don't want you to fail; they want you to show them why you will succeed with their company. The sooner they hire you, the sooner the search can end.

How to Handle Illegal Interview Questions

Interviews are already stressful enough. Between promoting your skills, showing enthusiasm and laughing at the interviewer's bad jokes, you have plenty to concentrate on.

But when you suspect you've been asked an illegal interview question, stress levels can shoot even higher.

Fortunately, if you know in advance what kind of illegal questions are most apt to sneak into an interview, you can diffuse the situation immediately and move on to more important tasks -- like landing that job.

Three Ways to Answer Illegal Interview Questions

Most interviewers are not out to discriminate against job applicants. Many of the illegal questions that interviewers ask are unintentional -- in fact, if you tactfully point out the question is illegal, the interviewer will likely realize his or her gaffe and immediately retract the question.

The challenge for you is to figure out what to say while you're sitting in that chair, faced with an illegal question. You have three basic options:

• Just answer the question. If you don't mind providing the information and you don't want to make waves, you can respond to the question and move on to the next one. Keep in mind, however, that you should only answer the question if you truly are comfortable providing the information -- it could come back to haunt you.

• Refuse to answer the question. Inform the interviewer that the question doesn't seem to be legal or relevant to the specific requirements of the job. Be forewarned, though, that such a direct response should really be saved for questions that are offensive or deeply troubling.



• Don't answer the question, but answer the intent behind the question. This is usually the best option, since it allows you to provide a tactful answer without sacrificing your rights. To answer the intent behind the question, try to figure out what the interviewer REALLY wants to know. For example, if the interviewer asks if you are a U.S. citizen (which is an illegal question), a smart answer would be, "If you mean to ask if I am legally authorized to work for you, the answer is yes." In cases like these, it's best to rephrase the question into a legal one and then answer it. This displays flexibility and composure -- strong job skills.

An Age-Old Question

Recent reports say that workers are planning to hold jobs well into their senior years. Many even plan to hold off retirement until their 70s or 80s in order to continue bringing in paychecks.

Unfortunately, this has resulted in an increase in complaints from older workers of age discrimination in the workplace, according to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

The good news is that interviewers are not allowed to ask you your age during an interview. With some rare exceptions, the only age- related question they can ask is if you're over the age of 18.

One thing to keep in mind: The EEOC's Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 only protects workers who are 40 years old and older from age discrimination and in workplaces with 20 or more employees. However, some local governments have laws that also enforce age discrimination rules for younger applicants and smaller workplaces.

Married ... With Children?

Women make up nearly half of the U.S. workforce, according to the Department of Labor. And as their numbers grow, so do the potential pitfalls they may face during an interview, especially when asked about marriage, children and pregnancy.

While illegal interview questions surrounding relationships, marriage and children are generally more problematic for female job candidates, protection from discrimination applies equally to male candidates.

Basically, you should be suspicious if you are asked any questions about your marital status, your family status, your future plans for children or your child care accommodations.

So what can employers ask? Questions that deal directly with the job requirements (e.g., "Are you willing to relocate?").

Yes, many proud parents enjoy telling stories about their children, and there may be a temptation to trade toddler stories with a friendly interviewer who has a family picture on his or her desk. But to avoid potential problems, err on the side of silence.

A Race for a Job

A recruiter friend of mine told me a story of how she accidentally asked someone an illegal interview question.

"Oh, you have such an interesting name! What does it mean?" she asked a candidate with a beautiful name that was obviously of non-English origin.

Fortunately, my colleague caught herself and told the candidate that she didn't have to answer the question. But it does show how subtly the issues of race, ethnicity and religion might sneak into an interview.

For instance, according to Nolo.com, interviewers are not allowed to ask if you are a U.S. citizen or ask where you were born. However, they can ask if you are legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

So if you are asked about your race, color, religion or national origin, be aware -- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employers from making employment decisions based on such factors.

how to answer of tough interview

You know they're coming: Those seemingly unanswerable questions that pop up during job interviews.

You can't clam up. And you don't want to stutter and stammer. So what's a job seeker to do?

The 'Future' Question

Otherwise known as the "big picture" question, the future question goes something like this: "Where do you see yourself in five years?"

The best tactic: Talk about your values.

first loses. But that's not necessarily true.

When an interviewer asks your salary requirement, try first to gently deflect the question by inquiring about the salary for the position.

If the interviewer presses you for a number, give a range. To decide on a range, think about the salary you want, your salary at your most recent position and the industry-standard salary for the job.

The bottom line: The salary question is one of the most important, so you should prepare for it in advance and plan what to say.

The 'Why' Question

There's a fine line between boastful and confident. And you need to learn it.

When an interviewer asks you why they should hire you, you're going to have speak confidently and honestly about your abilities. But you should avoid sounding overly boastful.

Aim for earnest and prepare by practicing. That's right: Stand in front of the mirror and acknowledge your abilities and accomplishments to your reflection. Tell yourself: I have a very strong work ethic. I have integrity. I have excellent industry contacts. I aggressively pursue my goals.

It's sometimes hard to praise yourself, but after a few sessions you'll sound sincere.

The Seemingly Silly Question

If you were a tree, what kind of tree would you be? What if you were a car? Or an animal?

These type of questions can bring your interview to a screeching halt.

First, don't panic. Pause and take a deep breath. Then remind yourself that there's no "right" answer to these questions. The job isn't hinging on whether you choose to be a spruce versus an oak.

Interviewers usually ask these questions to see how you react under pressure and how well you handle the unexpected. It's not so important what type of tree (or car, or animal) you choose as that you explain your choice in a way that makes you look favorable.

So, be a spruce -- because you want to reach new heights in your career. Or be an oak -- because you plan to put down roots at the company. Either way, you'll get it right.

why your seraching not getting job

Elements beyond your control can impact your job search success: the job market, the economy, the health of your industry. Yet, there are many factors over which you have complete control. How you handle these factors can make the difference between a long, drawn-out job search and one that nets quicker results. Rather than focusing on what we cannot change, let’s focus on what we can. Here are five reasons that you may not be getting the results you want in your current job search:

You’ve already convinced yourself there aren’t any jobs available.
Henry Ford once said, “If you think you can do a thing or think you can’t do a thing, you’re right.” Attitude and confidence play a large role in success—whether you're an athlete, businesswoman, or job hunter. Your belief, or disbelief, in your ability to achieve success will greatly influence how you conduct your job search and the impression you make with others.

Imagine an unseeded tennis player that is scheduled to go up against a top-ranking player in a match. This isn’t the situation that she’d hoped for. But, now that it is here, how will she approach the opportunity she’s been given? She has two options:

She can step onto the court already looking defeated. Head and shoulders dropped. Slumped posture. Panged look on her face. She is, in effect, telling her opponent, “You’ve already won.” Not surprisingly, she will be right. Her fear will become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

On the other hand, she can consider this to be a tremendous opportunity. She knows how good her opponent is and she respects her game. But she is confident in her own skills and ability. She sees this as the biggest opportunity of her career and she is determined to go for it. This attitude of confidence and self-belief is just as critical to her success as her talent and abilities.

What is your belief about your ability to succeed in your job search? It will either limit your ability to succeed or propel you forward. Limit the amount of negative information you allow in each day. Find the balance between staying informed and absorbing every negative report about the job market and the economy. Improve your job search skills and techniques. This will further boost your confidence.

2. You’re not as productive as you think you are.
“I’ve been looking for a job for months, but I’m not getting any results.” This is the most common complaint I encounter with my job search coaching clients. My response is, “What have you been doing during those months?” Their initial response usually sounds promising. They’ve sent out 10 resumes or spend two hours per day combing job ads. However, when we look at the numbers more objectively, we usually discover room for improvement. Sending 10 targeted resumes out in two weeks is impressive. Sending out just 20 resumes over the course of two and a half months will considerably lengthen your job search.

The average job search can range from three months to a year. The length of your job search is largely determined by the time, energy and effort that you put into it. If you are a full-time job hunter, approach your job search much the same way you would approach a full-time job. Carefully assess your current job search. What kind of time and effort are you putting into your job search? Are you a full-time job hunter, a part-time job hunter, or has your job search become more of a hobby? Assess your situation honestly and make adjustments where necessary.

3. You have no clear plan.
Can you imagine a sports team entering a game without a game plan? From little league to the pros there is always a game plan in place. You study the opposition. Study the field of play. You play to your strengths while exploiting the opposer’s weaknesses. As a job hunter, you must take the same approach.

Learn about different job search strategies. Conduct careful research on your field and industry. Learn as much as you can about your targeted geographic locations. Your industry may be dying in your local region yet blossoming in another. Create a plan of action based on the information you gather and implement it consistently. Keep track of your results and make adjustments as needed.

before you take job read it

n a market where Americans are scrambling to find jobs, any jobs, ads promising to pay you thousands of dollars a week to work at home can be tempting. But are they believable?

It may be best to stay skeptical, according to the 2009 Consumer Action Handbook from the Federal Citizen Information Center.

General Consumer Tips

“As a savvy consumer, you should always be on the alert for shady deals and scams,” the handbook advises. A deal that sounds too good to be true usually is, and just as you might be wary about promises to fix your credit problems or deals that let you skip credit card payments, you should be wary about work-at-home job opportunities as well.

Are They Legit?

To figure out whether a work-at-home opportunity is legitimate, a company should be willing to provide you with some basic information and deliver on their promises. Don’t be tempted simply by promises that you’ll be a part of one of America’s fastest growing businesses.

“Legitimate work-at-home program sponsors should tell you, in writing, what’s involved in the program they are selling,” the handbook says.

Here’s what you should ask yourself before you make any commitments.

1. What will your work consist of? A company should be willing to list every step of the job you’ll do.
2. How will you be paid? Will it be a salary or based on commission, who will pay you and when?
3. What upfront costs will you incur? Will you need supplies or equipment or need to pay a membership fee?
4. What is the company’s track record?
5. What does it sell and who are its customers?
6. Does it have the evidence to back up the claims it makes about its product?
7. Have you studied all the documents you’ve received regarding the business?
8. Do you have their earnings claims in writing?
9. Does the company have an official relationship with the manufacturer of its products? If you’re not sure, check with the company’s legal department.
10. Finally, you may want to consult an attorney, accountant or other advisor before you put down any money or your signature.

want a new job

Many people are thinking it's time for a career coach to help find a new — or better — job. Don't rush in, though, there are plenty of pitfalls in this rapidly growing business.

About 60 to 70 percent of the people seeking coaching services are looking for a job, said Joel Garfinkle, an Oakland, Calif.-based career coach and author. They may be unemployed or may have reached a point in their careers where they need a change. The other 30 to 40 percent are working on their career and want help with a promotion, communication skills or just to more narrowly define career goals.

A coach can help you focus in on your skills and think more broadly about the types of jobs for which you qualify. They also can help you work through personal issues that may be in the way of successfully landing a job such as appearance, interviewing, preparing a good resume and cover letters, said Garfinkle, who has provided individual coaching and executive coaching services for 12 years.

He is working with a larger number of clients who are unemployed for the first time in their careers, wondering how to start a job search.

"There's a shock. They call and say, 'Oh my God, I've never had to look for a job, ever,'" he said.

WHY WOULD I NEED A COACH

Those who have been out of the job market for a long time, may not be as adept at using the latest tools such as the online social networking site Facebook or the professional site LinkedIn. What's more, many are not even sure what they're personal brand is — their individual set of skills that sets them off from others, said Kay Cannon, a coach in Lexington, Ky.

For many, online tools and other publications can help move them in the right direction and give them the help they need with resume preparation and location of job sites, said Margaret Dikel, of Rockville, Md. She operates The Riley Guide, an Internet site that offers links to employment and career information.

Others, however, need the guidance of a coach or counselor.

"It's such an individual thing," she said. "If someone has a lot of questions and needs maybe a little bit of help or coaxing or someone to help sort through their thoughts, I advocate a coach or a career counselor."

She said anyone struggling with making the right decisions or who feels they're stuck in a rut, may want to seek out a career counselor, someone typically with a psychology degree and trained in counseling.

The career coaching and counseling field has grown tremendously in the past decade but the fact that it's unregulated should raise your level of skepticism.

Trade organizations offer professional certifications which indicates the coach has passed tests and an application process that indicates they follow ethical guidelines and have passed competency testing.

The International Coach Federation, the Worldwide Association of Business Coaches and the National Career Development Association all offer certifications.

They also offer free search features on their Web sites which allow you to find a certified coaches in your area.

How to Become Computer Literate

re you the kind of parent who has absolutely no idea how to use a computer? Someone who has never touched a computer before and just got here by luck? This article will help you become computer literate.

1. There are a couple of good books out there.
2. Learn the basic steps to get on the computer. Learn how to turn the computer on, off, on standby if applicable, how to log off if using Windows XP, and how to put discs in the disc drive.
3. Learn about the assorted programs and applications that you will be using. Install them on the computer by placing the CD into the disc drive, and following the installation wizard that pops up on the screen. After installing, play around with the application. this will help you understand the program better.
4. Learn a little about some of the chat jargon or chatspeak. Some examples are "lol" (laugh out loud), and "btw" (by the way). Also pay attention to - 1337 speak, which means "leet" or "elite". You won't really need to worry about Elite speak, as it was mainly used by hackers and crackers in the 1990s. Now it is mainly used by "wannabe" hackers, so you are most likely safe. Check out the external links for more information. Also, remember that this will help you figure out what you children are saying online when you look at their IMs, or instant messages.
5. Remember that there are some programs which can send where your child is going online right to your email inbox.
6. Set up an email account, which will be required to register with just about any website that allows posting messages (ie: forums, blogs, and sites with built-in chat rooms or IRC clients). Find a free email provider you like such as Google, Yahoo, Hotmail, or AOL. Sign up using their instructions.
7. Learn a little about bad people online. First, there are pedophiles which are a danger to your kids. There are also scams, viruses, cookie grabbers, and Trojan horses. See external links for more info. Also, always keep your computer up to date with security patches and other updates. Learn to recognize spam and forged emails some of which can look very real. Learn about money mule scams so that you do not fall for them.
8. Learn to protect your computer by installing anti-spy and anti-virus software.
9. Explore a little on the web. Visit Google.com to search for sites that focus on some of your interests.

Types of Computing Job

• Data Entry - This is a job just about anyone can get. Basically, you take information from a piece of paper and use it to fill out a form on the computer. Many old hands who started out in this role are now heading up computer departments.

• Secretarial/Administrative - This position involves some basic office skills. Not only must you understand the basics of using your computer and a few applications, but you'll probably also be expected to take dictation, answer phones, type letters, and keep things organized. In terms of computer skills, you should know how to use word processing, accounting, and spreadsheet programs at the very least. People in this role often move into other computing roles such as Managers, Meeting Organizers and Human Resources. Naturally you can move into mainstream computing areas, particularly QA and Testing.

• Power User - Not so much a position as a status of being an extremely proficient user of (typically) Microsoft Office or similar tools. Advanced users of these tools become familiar with the basics of computer programming through starting with Excel macros or Access database programming. One can become very valuable to a small business by learning such skills, and even start to consult with other small businesses at rates typically starting around $50 an hour.

• Customer Service/Telesales - These positions usually place a higher emphasis on phone skills than computer skills, but you should know at least the basics of how to use your computer.

• Technical Support (Production Support) - Most companies consider technical support to be an entry-level computer job. You are expected to know the operating systems on which the product you'll support will run, and you'll also need to know the basics of any programs that product might interact with. The good news is that the company will teach you what you need to know about their products - you just need to learn everything else. Success in technical support requires good problem-solving skills and a great deal of attention to detail. Technical Support and Problem Management is a rapidly growing area. Users now rely heavily on Help Lines, International Support Centers and the like.

• Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Engineer - You need to know as much as the best technical support personnel. You need to be a problem solver, a detective, and sometimes even a Customer Service representative. You'll also need some basic programming skills, since more and more companies are beginning to rely on automated testing. The best SQA engineers understand a little (or a lot) about every aspect of computers, from building them to using them to programming them.

• Software Engineer (Developer or Programmer) - To get a job at a top software shop such as Microsoft or Google, you'll need a degree in computer science and detailed understanding of the field. However getting a developer position in some small company may be easier. What do you need to know is the language in which you'll be programming. It is also important to know database fundamentals and (if programming for Windows) the Windows API. Knowing more than one programming language is very helpful. Understanding many of the basic fundamentals of computer science (e.g. linked lists, arrays, pointers, object oriented programming) will be essential in demonstrating your proficiency.

• Business Analyst (Analyst or Systems Analyst or Analyst/Programmer or User Analyst) - This is a relatively new title, but the role is as "old as the hills". People can become a BA with any mix of business and computing skills. It is really a matter of looking at what the company is really after. A good BA should know the process from end to end. The BA is primarily the connection between the business and the developers. To get into this job, and into computing, good knowledge of a business is helpful. So, if you gain good knowledge through your job, and maybe do a computer course, you can get your foot in the door.

• Tester (Test Manager) - This one may not seem glamorous, but Testing is seen by the employers as being Number One in importance. It is often an easy way to break into computing, and you don't get many people say "Boy, I really want to be a Tester." Once in this job, you really get to know the whole process, and can easily get into Compliance or Management. Caution. Its usually the Test Manager, who gets the blame if the implementation goes wrong. But who cares. He can always get another job, as most know about this.

• Graphic Designer - A graphic designer create digital art such as designs for company logo, advertising brochures, and websites.

• Database Administrator/Programmer (DBA) - Database specialists are often software engineers, but not all software engineers work with databases, and some database specialists do not have high formality software engineering or computer science training, having come in via support-oriented career paths which can lead into database administration. DBAs are highly compensated and command considerable influence in typical corporate IT settings. Some DBAs get started by programming Access databases, move to SQL Server, and then to Oracle, through pursuing applied, product-specific certifications. Once a DBA, one can then move into data architecture and systems analysis.

• MIS/Network Administration/User Support - MIS (Management of Information Systems) is responsible for making sure that a company's network of computers is working properly at all times. This includes everything from showing the users how to send an e-mail to upgrading or repairing the computers to managing network resources such as file servers, network printers, and Internet firewalls. For user support positions, you need to be an expert at the operating systems in use by computers on the network and the network itself. You also need to know the fundamentals of hardware repair, the Internet, and the applications in use on the network. Network administrators need to know all of that plus how to set up network hardware, cabling, and network resources. Larger companies prefer their MIS personnel to have (or at least be pursuing) special certifications that prove they know their stuff.

• Technical Writer (Technical Author, Documentation Analyst) - To be a Technical Writer, you must understand computer basics and the product about which you're writing. You also need to know the programs you'll be using for your writing, such as word processors, desktop publishing programs, web languages such as HTML, and Windows Help-authoring tools. You'll also need to be a good writer (or trick people into thinking you are). The best Technical Authors tend to be ex or trained Journalists or English Teachers, who have an obvious head start. Ex Teachers do have a reputation of doing very well in the computer arena, possibly due to their presentation and management skills.

• Compliance - This is a rapidly increasing area, due to exposure of Companies to large payouts (can run into billions) to Government Authorities due to breaking the rules. To get into this area, you just need to show an interest in checking what others do, and making rules. Employers are interested primarily in your knowledge of computer processes, for example, how the Accounts Receivable System works, end to end. Compliance sections generally have large budgets too!

• Medicine/Diagnostic Imaging - There are lots of new jobs for computer literate people in Medicine. CT, PET, and MRI scanners all run complex software that should be operated by people with good computer skills.

• Production Analyst - Another key position. This guy runs the "real" system, and also is in charge of King the new systems that the developers are writing. So, if you are into power, this is the job for you.

• Medicine/Diagnostic Imaging - There are lots of new jobs for computer literate people in Medicine. CT, PET, and MRI scanners all run complex software that should be operated by people with good computer skills.

• Computer Manager (Project Leader, Executive Director, Vice President and others) - There are probably more of these jobs in computing than anything else, so don't rule it out. The industry is top heavy and full of titles, especially now that much of the real work is being done in India! Remember that these guys can earn very big money. The key job of a manager in computing is to convince users to keep funding computer projects.

• Computer Contractor - Even though this role has been around for a long time, there is still a demand. Computer Contractors are usually experienced Professionals but not Managers. Typical Contractor roles are Business Analyst, Tester and Developer. Remember that many computer teams are made up predominantly of Contractors, and that they can make good money, in a booming economy.

• Onshore Consultant - Typically a Senior Position but based in a foreign country. Onshore Consultants can be anything from Senior Managers to Developers. An example of an Onshore Consultant is a Professional from India working in Canada.

• Offshore Consultant - A growing industry. The Offshore Consultant is based in his own country and gets his work from overseas, for example, a Developer based in China getting Specifications from Singapore.

How to Get Jobs in Computers field

Okay, so you want a job in computing. This is as good a time as any to define the phrase "a job in computing." In the context of this article, any job that involves spending most of your day working at a computer is "a job in computing." If that sounds like something you're keen on doing, here's how to increase your chances of getting there.

he first thing you need to think about is exactly what kind of job in computing you want. Each job has its own special requirements, so you should assess your own skills and then decide which job might be best for you. Supply and demand is important too. Remember that traditional programming jobs are moving to India, China, etc. But new roles are coming up like Business Analysis, Testing and Compliance. Please see Types of Computing Jobs below for an overview of the most common types of computer jobs.

You probably know someone who knows more about computers than you do. Learn from them. Once their knowledge is used up, find someone even more knowledgeable to learn from. Soon, you'll be the expert, and people will start coming to you!

These days, there are websites that teach you just about anything to do with computers, from the basics all the way through advanced programming.
To be cont....

10 mistake of lossing jobs

1. Misspelling someone’s name

A person’s name is one of the most important possessions – so make sure to spell it right. Nothing indicates a lack a professionalism more than misspelling a person’s name. When in doubt, ask. Most people won’t find your question annoying. In fact, they’ll be honored that you thought spelling their name was important enough to check directly.

A misspelling need not involve only a personal name, either. It might be a key term used in your organization, profession, or industry. A company’s name is also among these.

2. Mispronouncing a name

The same logic regarding spelling applies to pronunciation. As before, simple as the person directly. If you have to, make up a phonetic representation of the name and practice it with the person. Again, people won’t mind your taking up their time this way; they’ll be flattered that you care about saying their name correctly (as long as they don’t have to have the same conversation with you more that once).

3. Commenting on a personal/family photo

I once a man and a women, thought they were brother and sister, I managed to keep my mouth shut. They turned out to be father and daughter.

The mistake I avoided, however, can occur with photographs as well. If you see a personal or family photo on a person’s desk, avoid commenting on relationships. That young boy you though was a grandson could possibly just be a son. Similarly, if you know the photo is an earlier one of the person you’re meeting with, avoid comments like “You looked great back then.”

4. Asking about pregnancy

No matter how much the women looks like she’s showing, keep your mouth shut until she actually brings the subject up. If you ask, and the answer is “no”, you will have no graceful retreat. If you’re conducting an interview, you have also opened the door wide open to a discrimination lawsuit.

5. Asking about unseen/absent spouse

Suppose last year you were at a company get together and saw your co-worker and their spouse. This year, you only see the co-worker. As with the pregnancy situation, keep our mouth shut. Don’t be in the position; asking about the spouse only to be told. “We’re divorced.”

6. Referring improperly to your boss

The same errors in determining family relationships can apply to office ones also. If you’re planning to be away and want to refer callers to our boss, that’s perfectly fine. However, make sure that your boss is okay with these referrals. More important, make sure your voicemail greeting or e-mail auto-reply makes the relationship clear. Don’t just say. “If you have any questions, please contact Kyle Reddoch at (phone number or e-mail address).” Say instead, “…please contact my supervisor/boss, Kyle Reddoch…”

7. Failing to reset your voicemail or e-mail auto-reply

When you return from time away from work, undo any absence greeting or auto-replies you’ve setup. Few things make you look dumber than having a greeting that references your return to work date from three months ago. If you think you’re going to forget, try placing a note on your phone or computer monitor.

8. Leaving a departed employee in voicemail / or on the Web

Once an employee leaves your company, remove that person from voicemail and any online directories that you may have. Leaving a person in place can make the company look foolish. Also, you might create the opportunity for an unaware caller to still leave a message for that departed employee, leaving the message to get missed.

9. Correcting the boss

Correcting your boss will rarely endear you to that person. If he or she made a mistake, try to correct it in as low-profile a way as possible. Perhaps you can talk to your boss during a break? However, you may (and should) publicly correct the boss when the boss in wrong about being wrong. In that limited circumstance, public correction is okay.

10. Displaying disunity in public

If you have disagreements with another person or department, resolve them privately. Don’t air dirty laundry to outsiders. Doing so makes your whole organization look bad.

job search sites

Jobster isn’t spoken about nearly enough, yet it is a powerful platform for networking with employers who are offering jobs, while you’re searching. You can upload your resume, embed your video resume, showcase links to your site, your picture and tag your skills, which is a unique differentiator. You can search for open positions and see who the person is who posted the job. Then you can add them to your network and connect with them to find out more about the position

Facebook can be used to get jobs. There are two main ways of acquiring a job through Facebook. The first is to go to your Facebook marketplace, which lists job openings or other opportunities in your network. Aside from jobs, there are “items wanted” and a “for sale” listing. When searching for jobs, you’ll be able to see who listed the item and then message them to show your interest.

When you find a job opening that you’re interested in, you’ll be able to message the hiring manager directly. For instance, the subject line of the message will auto-populate with “Principal Web Developer in Littleton, MA” in the subject line. The second way to get a job using Facebook is to join groups and fan pages to find people with common interests and to network with them.

Craigslist is an extremely valuable job search tool if you’re not looking to work for a big brand name company, such as P&G or GE. Most of the positions on Craigslist are for consultants (design/programming help) and at small to midsize companies that are hiring. There are new listings every day and if you wake up to this site every morning and refresh the page, you have a good chance at getting a job sooner rather than later.

MyWorkster focuses on exclusive networks for colleges, allowing students and alumni to connect for exclusive career opportunities. This site isn’t valuable to you if you didn’t go to college though. This social network allows you to create a professional profile and network with potential employers.

job search tools

Some of these sites allow you to craft a resume, while others are networking platforms that contain job listings. By signing up for all ten, you increase your chances of getting a job and decrease the amount of time you’ll spend searching for a new one. Three of the listed sites can be combined with other sites to be more impactful. In addition to joining, creating profiles and searching for jobs, I encourage you to support these sites with either a traditional website or blog, so that you have more to present to employers, in addition to your profile.

Have another social network you’d recommend? Tell us more about it in the comments.

(1)

LinkedIn is by far the #1 spot for job seekers, those currently employed, marketers who are looking to build lists and salespeople who are seeking out new clients. With 35 million users, including recruiters and job seekers, LinkedIn is quite a hot spot. Of course, due to the current state of the economy, it’s simple to understand why LinkedIn is more popular than ever.

(2)

Plaxo is a social network that resembles LinkedIn to a certain degree. You’re able to create your own profile with a section about you, your contact information and your “pulse stream,” which is made up of your presence on social media sites such as Twitter. You’re even able to share your photo album and send eCards, which is a nice differentiator.

The real value in Plaxo is the address book that keeps track of all of your contact information, including a Yahoo! Map indicating where your contacts live. Plaxo, which is owned by Comcast, is also integrated with Simply Hired, which is a job aggregator that searches thousands of job sites and companies and aggregates them in a single location for you. After building your Plaxo profile, use it as part of the recruitment process when applying for jobs with Simply Hired for success.

(3)

Twitter is an amazing tool if you can unlock its power. It’s taken me months to understand how conversations flow and how I can add to the discussion. Twitter breaks down communication barriers and lets you talk directly to hiring managers, without having to submit a resume immediately to a machine.

Although Twitter is probably one of the best networking tools on the planet, it needs to be supplemented with a blog or LinkedIn profile. There’s no way you can hire someone based on a Twitter profile, without having a link from that profile to something else that gives more information on that job seeker. You get to add one URL to your profile, so choose wisely.

job rotation

The effect of job rotation on the physical workload was investigated for male employees working at a refuse collecting department. Before the introduction of job rotation, an employee worked as a street sweeper, as a refuse collector or as a driver. After the introduction of job rotation, every employee was allowed to alternate between two of the three possible jobs during the day, i.e. refuse collecting/street sweeping, refuse collecting/driving or street sweeping/driving. Two non-rotation groups (i.e. refuse collectors and street sweepers) and two rotation groups (i.e. refuse collectors/street sweepers and street sweepers/drivers) were mutually compared. The physical workload was determined by measuring the perceived load, energetic load and postural load during a full working day. Job rotation resulted in a significant decrease of the perceived load and energetic load and a slight decrease of the postural load. The results indicate that the total amount of work performed by means of job rotation resulted in an overall reduced physical workload of the employees of the refuse collecting department.

carrier job

Job Loss does profoundly alter emotions and if the emotional change is not managed competently, it can gradually devastate one’s physical health. In this editorial I’m going to suggest coping strategies that will prove beneficial to Austin, Texas residents, especially those who are currently unemployed.

Getting Started:

Being unemployed can be extremely distressful. If you are in-between job loss, there might be an entice to vacation, take a short break from the mundane life and come back charged up to look out for a new job. While it is always good to unwind, I have testimonials to illustrate that vacations during Job loss is seldom a stress buster. However, if you choose to optimize your available time constructively, I can assure that you are on right track, gearing to scale up to the next level of your career.

It would be best option to exploit the time in-between jobs, for it can recreate your destiny. I would recommend Austin, Texas residents to journalize their career history, so to have a rationalized perceptive of their employment strengths and weakness. Let three columns make up your employment journal.

• List of All employers (paid and unpaid)
• Favorite aspects on the job (skills strength)
• Least preferred tasks on the job (challenge or weakness)

Few of the favorite and least preferred aspects include Salary, fringe Benefits, skills you like to use on the job, work location being at closer proximity to home, outsized organization, micro organization, One or multiple reporting heads, Managed people, Team work, Creative thinking, organization’s media representative, sales, Travel frequency etc., Generally Job responsibility is just on of the aspect for job satisfaction and usually many external factors mentioned, contribute greatly to overall career experience.

Informational Interviews

Every person is reservoir of knowledge. Each on them, in their own unique way, carries along a specific load of expertise, skills and experience. Start viewing every Austin, Texas neighbor as your potential resource for ideas and information.

Based on their availability, indulge in a discussion. Elucidate on your preferences, career history, Skill strengths and job challenges. Request their ideas on the career path that would most suit your strength and preferences. People love to talk and they would be flattered about your choice to ask them for advice especially during crisis, such a job loss. When they respond optimistically, listen carefully and make detailed notes about every information bit. Be certain not to interrupt while they converse, for it can disrupt their creative flow of ideas. Be silent and probe for additional comments. I would also recommend that you obtain professional references of those who can add value to your search.

The second level referral contacts, when called for informational interviews provide a foundation for a proactive search during job loss. Call on the contact and let them know the source person who gave you referral contact numbers. Introduce yourself and state the purpose of your call. Also ask their availability for an in-person appointment, so for you discuss in greater detail about your aspirations and learn more about the industry’s current market status. Be cautious not to ask for jobs outright.

Informational Interviews, will help you taper down your career options. Be sure to evaluate every idea or knowledge shared and choose the option that best suits your career aspirations.

job

It is plain knowledge that the resume is probably the most important factor in determining whether you get an interview call or not. Getting an interview is your final opportunity to show the client that you are indeed the perfect candidate for the available jobs. But to get there you need to make sure you have a resume that stands out amongst the hundreds of other applications. jobs

Job openings are advertised by companies of all sizes in newspapers and on classified websites with a career section. This is done primarily to avoid foul play and hiring unsuitable people through personal contacts. It also helps ensure that the company taps into a richer, more diversely experienced candidate pool with a higher likelihood of finding the right person for the job.

HR personnel can only spend less than a minute on each resume before deciding if it deserves a second appraisal or not. Each job opening receives hundreds of applications especially in the case of large companies and jobs that are of a more general, less authoritative nature. Resumes are efficiently sorted based on several criteria including usage of words and formatting. Education and past work experience are also key in more senior positions. A tiny fraction of the initial resumes ever make it to the second review and even fewer candidates get called for the final interview stage of the hiring process. jobs

Be thorough while checking your resume for mistakes. Since you have been working on your resume for weeks it is easy for you to overlook simple errors that may be visible to the person reviewing your application. Get your resume rechecked by friends and family. Use a simple yet professional layout and font, taking care to arrange your strengths and accomplishments in a way that is easily noticeable. Remember that you want your appraiser to consider you as a serious candidate within a minute or so of reading your resume. jobs

Spend a few hours a day to come up with different versions of your resume depending on the kind of positions and jobs you are applying for. Keep in mind that the closer your abilities and career experiences match with the employer’s requirements the higher the chances of you getting an interview call. Employers are not interested in unrelated particulars about your past. They need to be sure that you can add something extra that none of the other candidates can bring to the job. Convey only those skills that are related to your job be it a job in sales or in accounting. jobs

Once you have successfully completed your resume, step back and involve yourself in other tasks, like preparing for the interview, for a couple of days. This will give you a break and a fresh perspective when you revisit your resume. Submit your jobs application only once you’re entirely convinced that you have fulfilled all the employer’s requirements. Your future depends on it. jobs