By Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer
Attitude counts for a lot. Just think of how often people's attitudes affect your perception of them. First impressions often come down to phrases such as, "He had the worst attitude" or, "She has the best attitude of anyone I've ever met."
When you walk into your workplace -- whether it's a department store or hospital -- what are you thinking? Do you feel excited because you love your job? Are you filled with dread because you hate your job?
Your attitude toward work might impact your career more than you realize.
The runway model
When models work the catwalk, they act as if the audience isn't there. The flashbulbs blind them, but their faces seem to say, "I don't have time to care about this crowd; I have a catwalk to strut down." They're on emotionless autopilot, if you will.
What works for models doesn't work for everyone ... in case that unsuccessful liquid diet you tried wasn't enough proof. A numb approach to work raises questions about your performance:
Do you care about your job?
Do you know what you're doing?
How long will you stick around?
Does anyone even want to interact with you?
Todd Dewett, associate professor of management at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio, suggests these workers take a step back to look at their work in its appropriate context.
"All work is interdependent, yet most people have difficulty understanding where much of their work came from and where it will go -- they don't see the connections in the larger process," he says. "The more someone understands how their work impacts others, the more they are likely to care."
Dewett advises you to think of yourself as part of a team working toward a goal, not as an isolated cog in a machine. Look at the result of your hard work and maybe you can find a reason to care about your job, even if you don't love it.
The emotional teenager
Teenagers are nothing if not experts at looking at the cruel, torturous underbelly of life. A bad day when you're 15 years old isn't just a bad day; it's the worst day anyone has ever experienced in the history of human existence. Every phone call is a life-altering conversation of import no one can comprehend.
Hyperbolic workers aren't too different. They don't know how to put their workdays in perspective. Yes, some jobs are nightmares incarnate, but no job is nirvana, either. Difficult customers or incompetent bosses can mar the occasional day. Are you able to draw a distinction between a bad day and a bad situation?
"It is possible to frame things mentally such that you see them as only short-term realities that can change over time. From this 'glass half-full' perspective, any single bad role or colleague is but a few frames in a long roll of film. The focus then shifts from obsessing on the current situation to designing a real plan of action to create a new and better future situation," Dewett says.
On the flip side, rather than make you appreciate your job more, a new perspective might make you realize you belong elsewhere. If you're conditioned to despise work every time the alarm rings, you could end up stuck at a job that's just wrong for you.
"If you do actually hate your job, you might not be in need [of] a job tweak, but rather a full-fledged job change or career change," Dewett suggests. "Having said that, even in the worst professional situations, for the open minded, there is a lot to learn about how you got there and what [likely exists] there that will help you avoid it completely in the future."
Pollyanna
The classic children's book "Pollyanna," which follows a girl whose philosophy to focus on the positive, is an admirable, if not impossible, model to follow. Yet, some workers' abilities to convey Pollyanna's unrelenting optimism astound others and can be detrimental to their own careers.
The drawback to this work method is that you might find yourself out of the loop when it comes to how decisions are made, as they aren't always made in open discussions. Dewett cautions workers to pay attention to how decisions are made so that they can be aware of or participate in the process.
"People with overly rosy views (due to solid 'fit,' a great boss or colleagues or both) can be somewhat naïve politically," Dewett warns. "I would never advocate that a person with character and rosy glasses engage in too much political behavior, but you need to be aware of it."
Don't sacrifice the love you have of your job. After all, many people would be thrilled to enjoy going to work in the morning. A balanced perspective is all you need.
"Love your job, love your company -- but use your network so that you keep up to speed with the major political currents of the day as they might affect you and your work unit."
The transient
Perhaps more distracting than any other workplace attitude is that of the employee who never seems to set his or her bag down. For some workers, certain jobs are temporary. They never intend to stay long and they know something better is on the horizon, even if their employer is unaware of their agenda. While that approach might be appropriate in some circumstances -- and you never want to assume that any job is the last one you'll take because you don't know what the future holds -- don't live in that mentality.
For one thing, your boss and co-workers might get a sense of your fleeting mindset and treat you accordingly. If you never personalize your workspace or only talk about your future with the company in hypotheticals, they'll question your commitment. Do they want to give you a project or promote you if you seem to have one foot out the door already?
For your own sake, allow yourself to consider the possibility that your job has a lot to offer. Even if you don't want to stay there forever, let your mind relax by accepting the fact that you can see yourself in that position a year or two from now. You'll be surprised how stressful always being on the move is. Plus, you might realize you were closing off opportunities for personal and career growth by keeping yourself primed to leave at any minute. If another job eventually comes your way, you can weigh the pros and cons of taking it – when you're faced with the decision, not because you're always looking for it.
Anthony Balderrama is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com. He researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.
Copyright 2008 CareerBuilder.com All rights reserved. The information contained in this article may not be published, broadcast or otherwise distributed without prior written authority.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Construction Safety Supervisor - What Supervisor Safety Training Involves
By Christine OKelly
The main purpose of a construction safety supervisor position is to ensure everyone is safe while on the job. The required supervisor safety training is extensive, but it will provide the individual with all of the information and skills he will need to do the job effectively. This includes preventative measures, treatment, and dealing with the after effects of an incident.
The Role Of A Construction Safety Supervisor
This position is based on OH&S requirements, but it involves far more than that. This person needs to be familiar with all of the operations and procedures within a job. Adequate supervisor safety training allows him to identify potential problems and find the ideal solutions. This individual needs to act as a representative of the company as well as of the employees in order to keep each project safe, yet be cost effective and efficient.
He needs to perform his duties while acting as a role model for others. This not only teaches others on the team how to keep the workplace safe, but it also makes these procedures part of the atmosphere and company culture. This produces long-term results rather than a short-term solution.
Components Of Supervisor Safety Training
Anyone wishing to take the courses required to become a construction safety supervisor needs to become familiar with several genres of regulations and requirements. Loss control, hazard identification, methods of limiting hazards, WHMIS, and leadership are all areas that make up the educational core.
Several other areas of education are also helpful for attaining certification. Confined space entry, fall protection, and Transportation of Dangerous Goods or (TDG) all work with certain procedures and situations. Classes such as Temporary Workplace Signing, Accident Investigation, Traffic Control, and Site Inspection or Hazard Assessment further expand the individual's knowledge of the prevention and aftermath of various situations.
The Benefits Of Supervisory Positions
A construction safety supervisor is an integral part of any workplace. When keeping employees protected through the proper education and programs, businesses experience a higher moral and general improvement in productivity, reducing employee turnover and increasing profits. Many companies notice the individuals in their employ often become closer as a result. There is also a notable reduction in the amount of Worker's Compensation Board claims and legal situations, further reducing the costs to the company.
When the supervising individual is familiar with the procedures and projects on the ground, he can often see areas that need improvement because he is actually working in the situation rather than observing. This leads to alternative solutions that heighten the safety of the job while solving problems the company may have struggled with previously.
Quality safety supervisor training is necessary for any construction company. You can rest easy knowing that your workers are safe, the job is being performed efficiently, and you can take pride in the added productivity a knowledgeable construction safety supervisor can bring to your business.
Christine O'Kelly is an author for the supervisor safety training experts, Code Red Safety & Rental. In addition to offering training as a construction safety supervisor, they offer a full range of staffing, safety training, and services.
The main purpose of a construction safety supervisor position is to ensure everyone is safe while on the job. The required supervisor safety training is extensive, but it will provide the individual with all of the information and skills he will need to do the job effectively. This includes preventative measures, treatment, and dealing with the after effects of an incident.
The Role Of A Construction Safety Supervisor
This position is based on OH&S requirements, but it involves far more than that. This person needs to be familiar with all of the operations and procedures within a job. Adequate supervisor safety training allows him to identify potential problems and find the ideal solutions. This individual needs to act as a representative of the company as well as of the employees in order to keep each project safe, yet be cost effective and efficient.
He needs to perform his duties while acting as a role model for others. This not only teaches others on the team how to keep the workplace safe, but it also makes these procedures part of the atmosphere and company culture. This produces long-term results rather than a short-term solution.
Components Of Supervisor Safety Training
Anyone wishing to take the courses required to become a construction safety supervisor needs to become familiar with several genres of regulations and requirements. Loss control, hazard identification, methods of limiting hazards, WHMIS, and leadership are all areas that make up the educational core.
Several other areas of education are also helpful for attaining certification. Confined space entry, fall protection, and Transportation of Dangerous Goods or (TDG) all work with certain procedures and situations. Classes such as Temporary Workplace Signing, Accident Investigation, Traffic Control, and Site Inspection or Hazard Assessment further expand the individual's knowledge of the prevention and aftermath of various situations.
The Benefits Of Supervisory Positions
A construction safety supervisor is an integral part of any workplace. When keeping employees protected through the proper education and programs, businesses experience a higher moral and general improvement in productivity, reducing employee turnover and increasing profits. Many companies notice the individuals in their employ often become closer as a result. There is also a notable reduction in the amount of Worker's Compensation Board claims and legal situations, further reducing the costs to the company.
When the supervising individual is familiar with the procedures and projects on the ground, he can often see areas that need improvement because he is actually working in the situation rather than observing. This leads to alternative solutions that heighten the safety of the job while solving problems the company may have struggled with previously.
Quality safety supervisor training is necessary for any construction company. You can rest easy knowing that your workers are safe, the job is being performed efficiently, and you can take pride in the added productivity a knowledgeable construction safety supervisor can bring to your business.
Christine O'Kelly is an author for the supervisor safety training experts, Code Red Safety & Rental. In addition to offering training as a construction safety supervisor, they offer a full range of staffing, safety training, and services.
How to Answer Job Interview Questions - How to Impress Your Potential Employer
By Ricky Lim
No one likes to be interviewed especially when it comes to job interviews. Even so, you probably have to undergo some job interviews during your working career. However, not everyone knows how to answer job interviews questions.
Here are some sample job interviews questions and answers.
The most common question most job interviewers will ask is tell me about yourself. It is a open ended question and most people are actually stumped by this.
A simple and short explanation of your qualifications and work experience will do. Try not to talk more than 2 minutes. Some skillful interviewers will use what you say to get more information on the areas he or she is more interested in that is related to your potential job position.
It is important to listen carefully to the interviewer. Never rush to reply an question asked by the interviewer without thinking through first. Of course, you should not take all day to answer a question as well. That is why preparing for common job interview questions is important.
The next most common question is why do you want to leave your current job? It is best not to speak badly about your previous employer or the fact that you need a higher salary.
You can say you are looking for better career prospects and you believe your company fits those criteria.
Another common job interview questions is what are your strengths and weakness? Again, most job applicants have no idea as they did not prepare the question before hand.
Most interviewers will want strengths that fit in the job description you are applying for. For weaknesses, well, we all have weakness but you should buffer your weak points by pointing out a strength that can compensate for it.
These are some of the most common job interviewer questions. The most important thing to note is to prepare well before attending the job interview and be confident and look smart.
Learn how to answer job interview questions. Discover what are the common job interview questions and how to answer job interview questions correctly.
No one likes to be interviewed especially when it comes to job interviews. Even so, you probably have to undergo some job interviews during your working career. However, not everyone knows how to answer job interviews questions.
Here are some sample job interviews questions and answers.
The most common question most job interviewers will ask is tell me about yourself. It is a open ended question and most people are actually stumped by this.
A simple and short explanation of your qualifications and work experience will do. Try not to talk more than 2 minutes. Some skillful interviewers will use what you say to get more information on the areas he or she is more interested in that is related to your potential job position.
It is important to listen carefully to the interviewer. Never rush to reply an question asked by the interviewer without thinking through first. Of course, you should not take all day to answer a question as well. That is why preparing for common job interview questions is important.
The next most common question is why do you want to leave your current job? It is best not to speak badly about your previous employer or the fact that you need a higher salary.
You can say you are looking for better career prospects and you believe your company fits those criteria.
Another common job interview questions is what are your strengths and weakness? Again, most job applicants have no idea as they did not prepare the question before hand.
Most interviewers will want strengths that fit in the job description you are applying for. For weaknesses, well, we all have weakness but you should buffer your weak points by pointing out a strength that can compensate for it.
These are some of the most common job interviewer questions. The most important thing to note is to prepare well before attending the job interview and be confident and look smart.
Learn how to answer job interview questions. Discover what are the common job interview questions and how to answer job interview questions correctly.
4 Steps to Making Your Career Change Just Like Going on Vacation
By Cherry Douglas
Did you realise that changing career can be just like going on holiday? And you don't get hung up about that, do you?!
So what do I mean? How is taking a vacation connected with something as big as a career change?
Well, much of the thinking and planning that goes into a holiday, is similar to the process you need to go through when you are making a change of career direction. Read on to see what I mean.
What is your holiday (career) destination? When spending a big chunk of your hard earned cash on a two week vacation, you take your time to think carefully about where you will go. You start by considering what you like to do, what kind of activities you enjoy, what you are interested in.
Then you use this knowledge to identify suitable places where you will find things to do that match your interests. If you enjoy lying on a beach, you won't be going to a cultural capital where the main offer is museums and theatre.
The key points here are knowing yourself and researching what your destination has to offer. A successful career change will start with this too.
How will you get there? If your holiday destination is a long way off, you accept that the journey will take some time. You know there will be several stages - taxi, train, plane, hire car and so on. You also know that if you are driving, you will need a good map so that you don't get lost. It is all down to careful planning again.
You need to do the homework and ask the advice of travellers who have been that way before. Then you stand a better chance of getting directly to your destination, even if the journey takes some time.
It's the same with career change. You might decide to retrain to become, say, an IT programmer or developer. Once you are sure this matches your interests, you explore which courses you need to take to gain new skills and ask people which ones they recommend. You plan a timetable for the training according to when courses are available with an aim of being qualified by a certain date.
Can you afford it? You save up for a holiday, so why not save up for a career change? You think nothing of putting money aside so you can enjoy your two weeks in the Caribbean, so it makes sense to apply the same mindset to a career change which will have a much bigger impact on your life in the long run.
If it is a big adventure holiday on the other side of the world you have in mind, you just take longer to save up.
Yes, there are financial implications to making a career change, but don't let them freeze you into inactivity. Sit down and work out the sums, consider where you can cut corners and do without little luxuries - and start saving!
Who will be your companions? Vacations aren't so much fun on your own, so most times you will take someone else along. Someone you trust, someone whose company you enjoy, someone who will share the adventure with you. They can help you with the planning and research into what you will do when you get there.
Bits of the journey may be boring or stressful, so it is great to have a friend to chat to. Once you get there, you need someone to share your excitement and enthusiasm about your destination.
Don't attempt a career change journey on your own either. You need a companion who can be a supporter and encourager along the way. They may be travelling a parallel path of their own, or they may just pick you up when you are weary and think the journey is too long. Whatever the case, they can help keep your spirits up so that you do indeed reach your destination.
So are you already thinking about your vacation for 2009? You quite possibly are. You don't hesitate with that bit of life planning, do you? So why not think a bit bigger? Why not use the same strategies to get your career change off the starting blocks instead?
And if you need a little more encouragement to help you take action , then I invite you to take your first step by downloading my free ebook, 11 3/4 Ways To Kick Start Your Career Change at http://www.how-to-change-careers.com/kick-start-your-career-change.html
Did you realise that changing career can be just like going on holiday? And you don't get hung up about that, do you?!
So what do I mean? How is taking a vacation connected with something as big as a career change?
Well, much of the thinking and planning that goes into a holiday, is similar to the process you need to go through when you are making a change of career direction. Read on to see what I mean.
What is your holiday (career) destination? When spending a big chunk of your hard earned cash on a two week vacation, you take your time to think carefully about where you will go. You start by considering what you like to do, what kind of activities you enjoy, what you are interested in.
Then you use this knowledge to identify suitable places where you will find things to do that match your interests. If you enjoy lying on a beach, you won't be going to a cultural capital where the main offer is museums and theatre.
The key points here are knowing yourself and researching what your destination has to offer. A successful career change will start with this too.
How will you get there? If your holiday destination is a long way off, you accept that the journey will take some time. You know there will be several stages - taxi, train, plane, hire car and so on. You also know that if you are driving, you will need a good map so that you don't get lost. It is all down to careful planning again.
You need to do the homework and ask the advice of travellers who have been that way before. Then you stand a better chance of getting directly to your destination, even if the journey takes some time.
It's the same with career change. You might decide to retrain to become, say, an IT programmer or developer. Once you are sure this matches your interests, you explore which courses you need to take to gain new skills and ask people which ones they recommend. You plan a timetable for the training according to when courses are available with an aim of being qualified by a certain date.
Can you afford it? You save up for a holiday, so why not save up for a career change? You think nothing of putting money aside so you can enjoy your two weeks in the Caribbean, so it makes sense to apply the same mindset to a career change which will have a much bigger impact on your life in the long run.
If it is a big adventure holiday on the other side of the world you have in mind, you just take longer to save up.
Yes, there are financial implications to making a career change, but don't let them freeze you into inactivity. Sit down and work out the sums, consider where you can cut corners and do without little luxuries - and start saving!
Who will be your companions? Vacations aren't so much fun on your own, so most times you will take someone else along. Someone you trust, someone whose company you enjoy, someone who will share the adventure with you. They can help you with the planning and research into what you will do when you get there.
Bits of the journey may be boring or stressful, so it is great to have a friend to chat to. Once you get there, you need someone to share your excitement and enthusiasm about your destination.
Don't attempt a career change journey on your own either. You need a companion who can be a supporter and encourager along the way. They may be travelling a parallel path of their own, or they may just pick you up when you are weary and think the journey is too long. Whatever the case, they can help keep your spirits up so that you do indeed reach your destination.
So are you already thinking about your vacation for 2009? You quite possibly are. You don't hesitate with that bit of life planning, do you? So why not think a bit bigger? Why not use the same strategies to get your career change off the starting blocks instead?
And if you need a little more encouragement to help you take action , then I invite you to take your first step by downloading my free ebook, 11 3/4 Ways To Kick Start Your Career Change at http://www.how-to-change-careers.com/kick-start-your-career-change.html
How You Can Get a Good Job at the Top Film Studios
By Laurel Booth
Life may seem boring for many young people, due to the standard route of work after studies. This is something we cannot avoid, unless we are rich. What we can do is to choose our own studies so that we can land a job that we want. Among dream jobs, one of them would be to work at the top film studios of Hollywood so that one can enjoy a fun and fulfilling work, as well as to see the big stars right before their very eyes. This is a common dream, and you will have competition, so will you be ready to tackle your way through?
Dare to be different. Dare to dream. Even though you know that the times are bad now, and people are failing to keep their jobs, people are losing money at the stock exchange. These people are failures. That was a cruel statement, but it is very true as well. So you must dare to dream, and move towards your dream, even if doubts and nay-sayers would come your path.
Remember, "Great spirits have often encountered violent oppositions from mediocre minds."
Therefore, do not be mediocre and do not listen to mediocre people. Think big, as Donald Trump said, since you are going to think anyway. It is common sense to know that people who think small live a small and unfulfilled lives anyway. Therefore, be brave and think big, think smart.
Have great preparations. How are you going to compete with other job applicants? Think of how you are going to write your letter, so that it would attract the attention of the reader, who would then pass it to the human resource manager on your behalf.
Study now for what you are going to do in your Hollywood job. Think of what aspects of production you want to be involved in and get a diploma or better yet a degree on the relevant subject.
http://www.Agifly.com - A Blog dedicated to movie lovers by movie lovers.
Find movie reviews, celebrity interviews, and movie trailers on popular categories throughout the blog.
Life may seem boring for many young people, due to the standard route of work after studies. This is something we cannot avoid, unless we are rich. What we can do is to choose our own studies so that we can land a job that we want. Among dream jobs, one of them would be to work at the top film studios of Hollywood so that one can enjoy a fun and fulfilling work, as well as to see the big stars right before their very eyes. This is a common dream, and you will have competition, so will you be ready to tackle your way through?
Dare to be different. Dare to dream. Even though you know that the times are bad now, and people are failing to keep their jobs, people are losing money at the stock exchange. These people are failures. That was a cruel statement, but it is very true as well. So you must dare to dream, and move towards your dream, even if doubts and nay-sayers would come your path.
Remember, "Great spirits have often encountered violent oppositions from mediocre minds."
Therefore, do not be mediocre and do not listen to mediocre people. Think big, as Donald Trump said, since you are going to think anyway. It is common sense to know that people who think small live a small and unfulfilled lives anyway. Therefore, be brave and think big, think smart.
Have great preparations. How are you going to compete with other job applicants? Think of how you are going to write your letter, so that it would attract the attention of the reader, who would then pass it to the human resource manager on your behalf.
Study now for what you are going to do in your Hollywood job. Think of what aspects of production you want to be involved in and get a diploma or better yet a degree on the relevant subject.
http://www.Agifly.com - A Blog dedicated to movie lovers by movie lovers.
Find movie reviews, celebrity interviews, and movie trailers on popular categories throughout the blog.
Career Advice - Use Skepticism As a Positive Force
By Ramon Greenwood
Skepticism has gotten a bum rap in the lore of career coaching.
The fact is that skepticism is a positive force that successful managers apply regularly in reaching their career goals.
As individuals, those with real-world smarts accept few things at face value, while organizations tend to accept without questions the decisions made by the system, especially if they are based on reams computer printouts.
There are six common sense rules that guide careerists in the skillful application of skepticism.
1. Don't be a knee-jerk skeptic. Establish a basis in fact before voicing skepticism, rather than acting on gut reactions.
2. Double check all facts and assumptions, especially those introduced with "As everybody knows..."
3. Use skepticism only when the outcome of an issue is really important.
4. Be tactful and constructive when expressing doubt. Use terms such as, "I wonder if you have thought about...?" "Have you considered...?" What would happen if...?"
5. Turn on the skeptic's radar when a presentation is loaded with sweeping generalities. Remember, there are no sure bets; no gains without risks.
6. Be skeptical about your skepticism. That's the recommendation of John Barefoot, a psychologist at Duke University's Medical Center, who is an authority on the subject of skepticism.
While Dr. Barefoot believes a healthy level of suspicion is needed to survive and thrive, he advises that one must suspect this attitude if it crops up constantly about all things.
Skepticism Can Be An Uncomfortable Role
The role of the skeptic is not easy. It is often uncomfortable as well as hazardous. "Group Think" is hard to resist. Too often the call for team play means the suspension of healthy doubts.
No one is comfortable and happy taking the heat of doubting the steamrollers that come running through a meeting when all of the "facts" and "conclusions" are projected on the screen in dazzling slides and printouts, enclosed in handsome three-ring binders, are passed around for further study.
To paraphrase a popular adage, "To question the presentation when the majority is applauding is to be the proverbial bastard at the family reunion."
Skepticism Wins Over Blind Faith
Nevertheless, common sense says you'll get farther along the career path with a healthy dose of skepticism than you will with blind faith in what the organization says and does.
Bertrand Russell, the renowned British mathematician and philosopher, had this to say about the place of skepticism in career success:
"For my part, I should wish to preach the will to doubt...what is wanted is not the will to believe, but the wish to find out, which is the exact opposite. In all affairs, it is a healthy thing, now and then, to hang a question mark on all things you take for granted."
If you are skittish about using skepticism as a tool to accelerate your trip on your career path, run a test. For the next 60 days observe those whom you respect for their prowess in mastering the dynamics of life in organizations. See how many times they act as skeptics and how they do it.
If you find skepticism working for successful managers, what makes you think it won't help you reach your career goals?
For free career coaching click here: http://www.commonsenseatwork.com You'll receive The Career Accelerator, Ramon Greenwood's semi-monthly newsletter. You can also visit his Your Blog For Career Advice via this route. No cost/no obligation. Greenwood's career advice comes from a world of experience, including serving as Senior Vice President of American Express, an entrepreneur, professional director, career coach and author.
Skepticism has gotten a bum rap in the lore of career coaching.
The fact is that skepticism is a positive force that successful managers apply regularly in reaching their career goals.
As individuals, those with real-world smarts accept few things at face value, while organizations tend to accept without questions the decisions made by the system, especially if they are based on reams computer printouts.
There are six common sense rules that guide careerists in the skillful application of skepticism.
1. Don't be a knee-jerk skeptic. Establish a basis in fact before voicing skepticism, rather than acting on gut reactions.
2. Double check all facts and assumptions, especially those introduced with "As everybody knows..."
3. Use skepticism only when the outcome of an issue is really important.
4. Be tactful and constructive when expressing doubt. Use terms such as, "I wonder if you have thought about...?" "Have you considered...?" What would happen if...?"
5. Turn on the skeptic's radar when a presentation is loaded with sweeping generalities. Remember, there are no sure bets; no gains without risks.
6. Be skeptical about your skepticism. That's the recommendation of John Barefoot, a psychologist at Duke University's Medical Center, who is an authority on the subject of skepticism.
While Dr. Barefoot believes a healthy level of suspicion is needed to survive and thrive, he advises that one must suspect this attitude if it crops up constantly about all things.
Skepticism Can Be An Uncomfortable Role
The role of the skeptic is not easy. It is often uncomfortable as well as hazardous. "Group Think" is hard to resist. Too often the call for team play means the suspension of healthy doubts.
No one is comfortable and happy taking the heat of doubting the steamrollers that come running through a meeting when all of the "facts" and "conclusions" are projected on the screen in dazzling slides and printouts, enclosed in handsome three-ring binders, are passed around for further study.
To paraphrase a popular adage, "To question the presentation when the majority is applauding is to be the proverbial bastard at the family reunion."
Skepticism Wins Over Blind Faith
Nevertheless, common sense says you'll get farther along the career path with a healthy dose of skepticism than you will with blind faith in what the organization says and does.
Bertrand Russell, the renowned British mathematician and philosopher, had this to say about the place of skepticism in career success:
"For my part, I should wish to preach the will to doubt...what is wanted is not the will to believe, but the wish to find out, which is the exact opposite. In all affairs, it is a healthy thing, now and then, to hang a question mark on all things you take for granted."
If you are skittish about using skepticism as a tool to accelerate your trip on your career path, run a test. For the next 60 days observe those whom you respect for their prowess in mastering the dynamics of life in organizations. See how many times they act as skeptics and how they do it.
If you find skepticism working for successful managers, what makes you think it won't help you reach your career goals?
For free career coaching click here: http://www.commonsenseatwork.com You'll receive The Career Accelerator, Ramon Greenwood's semi-monthly newsletter. You can also visit his Your Blog For Career Advice via this route. No cost/no obligation. Greenwood's career advice comes from a world of experience, including serving as Senior Vice President of American Express, an entrepreneur, professional director, career coach and author.
Career Success - The Key Question You Must Answer
By Duncan Brodie
Whatever point you are at in your career, chances are that you want to achieve success. The reasons why people want career success are varied and include:
• Financial rewards and benefits
• The status and standing of being in a senior role
• The challenge of climbing the career ladder and overcoming the obstacles that arise
• Sense of personal achievement
While there are a whole host of reasons why people want to achieve career success, there is in my experience one key question that you need to be able to answer. So what is that question?
WHAT IS YOUR OVERALL CAREER GOAL?
There are a number of reasons why it is essential that you answer this question and they include:
Reason 1: Helps you make choices
If you want to climb the career ladder and get a senior level post, you will need to gain a wide of skills, knowledge and experience. In addition, you will have to develop a broad range of personal attributes. Chances are there will be many opportunities that will arise which might appear attractive financially but might not be beneficial in achieving your overall career goal. By being clear on your overall career goal you can make informed career move choices.
Reason 2: Helps you decide priorities
Every time you make a choice around your career, for example, stepping up to the next level, chances are you will be required to commit more to work. If this fits in with your priorities around lifestyle then there is no problem. The reality is that most people don't take the time to consider where career fits into there overall lifestyle priorities. We sometimes forget that the majority of people work to live not live to work.
Reason 3: Helps you determine how much you want it
Climbing the career ladder and holding down a job at a senior level is not easy. A question you need to be able to answer is how much do you want it? You will need to consider how determined you are, how much sacrifice you are ready to make, how much pressure you are comfortable dealing with to name just a few. I suggest you rate yourself on a scale of 1 to 10, where 10 means that you want it 100% and are willing to do what it takes to get there.
Bottom Line - Achieving career success requires determination, drive and a whole range of other personal attributes. At the end of the day you need to be clear on your overall career goal if you are to maximise your chances of career success.
Duncan Brodie of Goals and Achievements (G&A) works with individuals, teams and organisations to develop their management and leadership capability.
With 25 years business experience in a range of sectors, he understands first hand the real challenges of managing and leading in the demanding business world.
He invites you to sign up for his free e-course and newsletter at http://www.goalsandachievements.co.uk/
Whatever point you are at in your career, chances are that you want to achieve success. The reasons why people want career success are varied and include:
• Financial rewards and benefits
• The status and standing of being in a senior role
• The challenge of climbing the career ladder and overcoming the obstacles that arise
• Sense of personal achievement
While there are a whole host of reasons why people want to achieve career success, there is in my experience one key question that you need to be able to answer. So what is that question?
WHAT IS YOUR OVERALL CAREER GOAL?
There are a number of reasons why it is essential that you answer this question and they include:
Reason 1: Helps you make choices
If you want to climb the career ladder and get a senior level post, you will need to gain a wide of skills, knowledge and experience. In addition, you will have to develop a broad range of personal attributes. Chances are there will be many opportunities that will arise which might appear attractive financially but might not be beneficial in achieving your overall career goal. By being clear on your overall career goal you can make informed career move choices.
Reason 2: Helps you decide priorities
Every time you make a choice around your career, for example, stepping up to the next level, chances are you will be required to commit more to work. If this fits in with your priorities around lifestyle then there is no problem. The reality is that most people don't take the time to consider where career fits into there overall lifestyle priorities. We sometimes forget that the majority of people work to live not live to work.
Reason 3: Helps you determine how much you want it
Climbing the career ladder and holding down a job at a senior level is not easy. A question you need to be able to answer is how much do you want it? You will need to consider how determined you are, how much sacrifice you are ready to make, how much pressure you are comfortable dealing with to name just a few. I suggest you rate yourself on a scale of 1 to 10, where 10 means that you want it 100% and are willing to do what it takes to get there.
Bottom Line - Achieving career success requires determination, drive and a whole range of other personal attributes. At the end of the day you need to be clear on your overall career goal if you are to maximise your chances of career success.
Duncan Brodie of Goals and Achievements (G&A) works with individuals, teams and organisations to develop their management and leadership capability.
With 25 years business experience in a range of sectors, he understands first hand the real challenges of managing and leading in the demanding business world.
He invites you to sign up for his free e-course and newsletter at http://www.goalsandachievements.co.uk/
5 Tips to Boost Your Confidence and Get Yourself Hired
By Waller Jamison
Losing your job is tough at any time, but especially when the world is in the grip of a major recession. Are you sending out application after application but getting no results? If so, you can improve your prospects very easily by following these tips.
Tip #1
Make a list of your transferable skills. Most of us take our skills for granted because we use them all the time and don't consider them to be anything special. But you will have a number of skills which are very valuable in the job market and you need to be able to identify them. Once you know what they are, you can highlight them on your job applications and this will greatly improve your chances.
Don't know what skills you have? You can find out by going through all your old job descriptions, if you have them and writing down everything that you have done at work in the past which could be of value to an employer. If you don't have any job descriptions, look up similar job advertisements online and you'll come up with a good list. Or talk to friends and people you have worked with in the past.
Once you understand just how many skills you have, you'll feel a lot better about yourself and your ability to make a worthwhile contribution in the workplace.
Tip #2
Look for jobs where your skills are in demand. This could mean doing something slightly different from what you were doing before or doing the same thing but within a different industry. So be aware that many of your skills are transferable and widen the net when your are searching for jobs.
Tip #3
Don't just create one résumé and send it out to dozens of employers. Target your résumé or CV and your cover letter for every job you apply for. This isn't as difficult as it sounds. You can start with a generic résumé or CV aimed at the type of work you are looking for and then you can alter each one slightly to suit the needs of the individual employer. Do the same thing with your cover letter.
This might sound like more work, but you are likely to get a job much more quickly using this approach. So in the long run, it will mean a lot less work.
Tip #4
Be sure to research the companies you apply to, both before you send in the application and after you have been asked to attend an interview. Everyone who is interviewed will be capable of doing the job and you need to be sure you stand out. So do your homework and you'll make a good impression.
Tip #5
Keep building a network of people who can help you find the job you want. You won't always know if someone has a good contact or a friend in the business. So put the word out!
If you have been laid off, creating a really good résumé, identifying your transferable skills and doing your background research will help you get yourself hired in record time.
Check out this video if you want to know the 4 steps you can take right now to recession proof your career?
For more tips on how to find a new job go to: http://www.coolercareers.com
Losing your job is tough at any time, but especially when the world is in the grip of a major recession. Are you sending out application after application but getting no results? If so, you can improve your prospects very easily by following these tips.
Tip #1
Make a list of your transferable skills. Most of us take our skills for granted because we use them all the time and don't consider them to be anything special. But you will have a number of skills which are very valuable in the job market and you need to be able to identify them. Once you know what they are, you can highlight them on your job applications and this will greatly improve your chances.
Don't know what skills you have? You can find out by going through all your old job descriptions, if you have them and writing down everything that you have done at work in the past which could be of value to an employer. If you don't have any job descriptions, look up similar job advertisements online and you'll come up with a good list. Or talk to friends and people you have worked with in the past.
Once you understand just how many skills you have, you'll feel a lot better about yourself and your ability to make a worthwhile contribution in the workplace.
Tip #2
Look for jobs where your skills are in demand. This could mean doing something slightly different from what you were doing before or doing the same thing but within a different industry. So be aware that many of your skills are transferable and widen the net when your are searching for jobs.
Tip #3
Don't just create one résumé and send it out to dozens of employers. Target your résumé or CV and your cover letter for every job you apply for. This isn't as difficult as it sounds. You can start with a generic résumé or CV aimed at the type of work you are looking for and then you can alter each one slightly to suit the needs of the individual employer. Do the same thing with your cover letter.
This might sound like more work, but you are likely to get a job much more quickly using this approach. So in the long run, it will mean a lot less work.
Tip #4
Be sure to research the companies you apply to, both before you send in the application and after you have been asked to attend an interview. Everyone who is interviewed will be capable of doing the job and you need to be sure you stand out. So do your homework and you'll make a good impression.
Tip #5
Keep building a network of people who can help you find the job you want. You won't always know if someone has a good contact or a friend in the business. So put the word out!
If you have been laid off, creating a really good résumé, identifying your transferable skills and doing your background research will help you get yourself hired in record time.
Check out this video if you want to know the 4 steps you can take right now to recession proof your career?
For more tips on how to find a new job go to: http://www.coolercareers.com
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
What You Do When the Boss Isn't Looking
By Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder.com writer"When the cat's away, the mice will play," is a term most of you can relate to. As employees, when your manager is gone be it on vacation or just away from her desk you're like a teenager whose parents are out of town.
You sneak out early or come in late. You chitchat with co-workers more frequently, usually about nonwork-related things. You make personal phone calls, take extra-long lunches – heck, maybe you'll even enjoy a cocktail with your meal.
Perhaps the most frequent misbehaviors that occur when your boss isn't looking happen on the Internet. Whether you're surfing the Net, checking your personal e-mail, paying bills, shopping or updating your personal blog – it's all happening under your boss's unsuspecting nose.
Or is it?
Fifty percent of all employers report they monitor employees' Internet usage, according to a recent CareerBuilder.com survey. Eighteen percent of employers have fired an employee for using the Internet for nonwork-related activities.
Another survey by the American Management Association and The ePolicy Institute shows more than one-fourth of employers have fired workers for misusing e-mail and nearly one-third have fired employees for misusing the Internet in general.
When the boss is gone, the world of technology is a worker's oyster. Here are the most common things we do when our bosses aren't looking.
You "research"
Sixty-one percent of workers use the Internet for nonwork-related research and activities while they're at work, according to CareerBuilder.com. On average, 20 percent of these workers spend more than an hour of their workday on nonwork-related online activities and 9 percent spend more than two hours.
With those stats, it's no wonder employers are concerned with employees searching inappropriate Web sites from work computers. Sixty-six percent of companies monitor employees' Internet connections, while 65 percent use software to block connections to inappropriate sites, according to the management association. Employers who block content are concerned workers will visit sexual or pornographic sites (96 percent); games sites (61 percent); social networking sites (50 percent); entertainment sites (40 percent); shopping sites (27 percent) and sports sites (21 percent).
Of the 30 percent of bosses who've fired employees for Internet misuse, 84 percent did so because the employee was downloading, viewing or uploading inappropriate or offensive content; 48 percent because of a violation of company policy; and 34 percent due to excessive personal use.
You e-mail
Many workers use e-mail as their only form of communication – not only with co-workers but also with friends and family. Sixty percent of workers say they send non-work related e-mails at work, with 20 percent saying they send six or more e-mails per day, according to CareerBuilder.com. Twenty-two percent of those workers spend more than 30 minutes during the workday doing so.
The 28 percent of employers who have fired workers for e-mail misuse did so for the following reasons: violation of company policy (64 percent); inappropriate or offensive language (62 percent); excessive personal use (26 percent); and breach of confidentiality rules (22 percent), according to the management association.
You instant message
Everyone engages in a little chitchat now and then, but workers are using methods other than their mouths to do so. Twenty-one percent of workers say they send instant messages while at work and 45 percent of those people say IMing makes them more productive, according to CareerBuilder.com.
You socially network
Instead of opening your Outlook first thing in the morning, do you update your Facebook status? You aren't alone – 37 percent of employees surveyed by CareerBuilder.com have a social networking profile and one-third of them spend time on their social networking page during the workday. Nine percent spend 30 minutes or more doing so.
Fifty percent of employers surveyed by the management association block social networking sites.
You talk on the phone
Are you calling Mom every morning from the office to check in? Start using your cell phone instead – 45 percent of employers monitor the time you spend on the phone and the numbers you're calling, while an additional 16 percent record phone conversations, according to the management association. Six percent of employers have fired employees for misuse or private use of their office phone.
You blog
The "blogosphere" is taking over the Internet and becoming a "must have" space for employers and employees alike. Twelve percent of workers have a personal blog and 20 percent of them update it at work, according to CareerBuilder.com. Of those people, 6 percent spend 30 minutes or more blogging.
Rachel Zupek is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.
Copyright 2008 Careerbuilder.com. All rights reserved. The information contained in this article may not be published, broadcast or otherwise distributed without prior written authority.
Tips to Launching Your Career As a Financial Advisor
By Tim Bock
They're no question that we're at a financial cross roads. Now more than ever there's a need for qualified financial advisors to help lead us down the path to financial security. These careers are not only lucrative but rewarding as well. It's important to understand everything that goes into becoming successful. Let's take a closer look at some important tips that should be followed when building your career.
Independence
With all the financial problems facing people today, there is no single best solution. By being independent of any set financial institution, you'll have the freedom to choose the right financial products to meet your client's needs.
Don't go it alone
While you should be independent of a specific financial institution, it's important to make sure you you're not totally along in your endeavors. There are several independent marketing organizations that will give you the training and tools required to succeed in this competitive business.
Build a referral network
Networking and word of mouth is the best form of advertising. By being referred by a friend, your clients will be more willing to trust your judgment. This is why it's important to team up with qualified professionals in your area.
Selling isn't import
Contrary to popular belief selling yourself isn't that important. It's all about positing and taking care of your clients needs. By satisfying your customers, not only will they keep coming back but they will tell their friends and business associates about the services you provide.
Ask the right questions
When meeting prospective clients, don't spend a lot of time talking about yourself and your qualifications. Instead focus your attention on your clients needs by asking the right questions. What are their goals? What is your risk tolerance? How do you feel about...?
Communication is key
Stay in touch with all prospective clients. It could take several meetings for them to agree to work with you. Don't be pushy. Many times this will turn people off. Always be polite and keep their needs in the forefront.
Start small
While it's true that you need to spend money in order to make money, don't go overboard when starting out. Try to keep your start up cost to under $500. Limit your risk in the beginning and then you can expand your business after it becomes profitable.
Don't be unprepared when you launch your career as a financial advisor. Get all the fact by reading: Considering a Career in Finance as soon as possible. This is an excellent article that will give you all the facts you need before launching a financial career.
http://www.topfinancecareersonline.com is dedicated to helping people find the successful career they deserve.
They're no question that we're at a financial cross roads. Now more than ever there's a need for qualified financial advisors to help lead us down the path to financial security. These careers are not only lucrative but rewarding as well. It's important to understand everything that goes into becoming successful. Let's take a closer look at some important tips that should be followed when building your career.
Independence
With all the financial problems facing people today, there is no single best solution. By being independent of any set financial institution, you'll have the freedom to choose the right financial products to meet your client's needs.
Don't go it alone
While you should be independent of a specific financial institution, it's important to make sure you you're not totally along in your endeavors. There are several independent marketing organizations that will give you the training and tools required to succeed in this competitive business.
Build a referral network
Networking and word of mouth is the best form of advertising. By being referred by a friend, your clients will be more willing to trust your judgment. This is why it's important to team up with qualified professionals in your area.
Selling isn't import
Contrary to popular belief selling yourself isn't that important. It's all about positing and taking care of your clients needs. By satisfying your customers, not only will they keep coming back but they will tell their friends and business associates about the services you provide.
Ask the right questions
When meeting prospective clients, don't spend a lot of time talking about yourself and your qualifications. Instead focus your attention on your clients needs by asking the right questions. What are their goals? What is your risk tolerance? How do you feel about...?
Communication is key
Stay in touch with all prospective clients. It could take several meetings for them to agree to work with you. Don't be pushy. Many times this will turn people off. Always be polite and keep their needs in the forefront.
Start small
While it's true that you need to spend money in order to make money, don't go overboard when starting out. Try to keep your start up cost to under $500. Limit your risk in the beginning and then you can expand your business after it becomes profitable.
Don't be unprepared when you launch your career as a financial advisor. Get all the fact by reading: Considering a Career in Finance as soon as possible. This is an excellent article that will give you all the facts you need before launching a financial career.
http://www.topfinancecareersonline.com is dedicated to helping people find the successful career they deserve.
Solutions - To Having Questionable Job References
By Paul Godines
There may come a time when you or a friend of yours needs a new Job but you realize that you need Solutions - To Having Questionable Job References. Don't fret; this article will solve your dilemma once and for all.
It's happened; you have a former employer you feel will not be a shining reference because they fired you. So what do you do?
Begin by understanding what it is you need, begin with the end in mind, what you need is positive and enthusiastic people who can vouch for the your quality of your work and specific periods of employment. Let's start with obtaining dates of employment, well, that shouldn't be hard to get at all, right? Start there, once you have all the dates than its time to move on to finding enthusiastic people to vouch for your quality and experience of work.
Start finding enthusiastic people to vouch for your quality and experience of work by collecting contact info from anyone in the company you were fired from, start with people that you know would likely give you a positive and enthusiastic reference. Lets say your issue was with your former Supervisor, well go to another department that you have a friend in and ask that Supervisor for a written reference. Collect as many references from as many Supervisors and Managers as you can. The purpose is so that you can demonstrate that your issue most likely was with your former Supervisor and not with the overall Mission and Goals of the Company.
Every company knows they have difficult people within their ranks and that sometimes there are personality conflicts that create the need to separate employees and that's the point you want to share with your prospective employer. This is a simple get Solutions - To Having Questionable Job References, get prepared ahead of time Good Luck, let me know if I can help.
Paul Godines from Adapt on a Dime Consulting http://www.adaptonadime.com asks if you have Career Goals? Visit us at http://www.adaptonadime.com
There may come a time when you or a friend of yours needs a new Job but you realize that you need Solutions - To Having Questionable Job References. Don't fret; this article will solve your dilemma once and for all.
It's happened; you have a former employer you feel will not be a shining reference because they fired you. So what do you do?
Begin by understanding what it is you need, begin with the end in mind, what you need is positive and enthusiastic people who can vouch for the your quality of your work and specific periods of employment. Let's start with obtaining dates of employment, well, that shouldn't be hard to get at all, right? Start there, once you have all the dates than its time to move on to finding enthusiastic people to vouch for your quality and experience of work.
Start finding enthusiastic people to vouch for your quality and experience of work by collecting contact info from anyone in the company you were fired from, start with people that you know would likely give you a positive and enthusiastic reference. Lets say your issue was with your former Supervisor, well go to another department that you have a friend in and ask that Supervisor for a written reference. Collect as many references from as many Supervisors and Managers as you can. The purpose is so that you can demonstrate that your issue most likely was with your former Supervisor and not with the overall Mission and Goals of the Company.
Every company knows they have difficult people within their ranks and that sometimes there are personality conflicts that create the need to separate employees and that's the point you want to share with your prospective employer. This is a simple get Solutions - To Having Questionable Job References, get prepared ahead of time Good Luck, let me know if I can help.
Paul Godines from Adapt on a Dime Consulting http://www.adaptonadime.com asks if you have Career Goals? Visit us at http://www.adaptonadime.com
5 Telecommuting Job Interview Tips
By Wendy Betterini
When seeking a legitimate telecommuting job, finding good leads is only half the battle. Even more important is knowing how to present yourself well during the interview process and convince the employer that you are the best person for the job. There is usually a fair bit of competition for any good job opening, but this is especially true for telecommuting jobs! Work at home positions that pay well are in high demand, so don't be surprised if you find yourself among many hundreds of applicants all vying for the same position!
The question you need to ask yourself is: How can I be sure I'm putting my best foot forward during the interview?
This article will share 5 easy tips for making your telecommuting job interview great.
Tip #1 - Be on Time
This should go without saying, but telephone and internet interviews should be taken as seriously as on-site interviews. Be sure to plan, prepare, and be there on time. If your interviewer is supposed to call you, be sitting by the phone (or computer if online) at least 15 minutes before your interview time. If you are supposed to contact your interviewer, try to call at exactly the time your interview was set for, or even just a couple minutes early - but no more than that. Calling too early will just annoy your interviewer because he or she may be trying to wrap up a few things before your interview.
Also, be prepared by having a copy of your resume and cover letter in front of you, so you can quickly reference it for answers you may be asked. You may also want to jot down some responses to common questions the interviewer may ask.
Tip #2 - NO Background Noise!
If your interview will be done by phone, I cannot stress enough the importance of having a totally quiet background. That means no children yelling or talking or begging for your attention, no dogs barking, no television or stereo blaring. This will be even more important if you are applying for a job that requires telephone work. Make arrangements to be sure you can give the interview your full attention without any background interruptions.
In addition, be sure to use a landline telephone, not a cell phone. The interview won't go well if you and your interviewer have to keep saying, "Pardon, can you repeat that?" Also be sure to TURN OFF CALL-WAITING if you have that on your phone. That would be another big annoyance if you keep getting clicks and beeps on the line while you're trying to talk.
Tip #3 - Slow and Steady
Sometimes nervousness can make you talk a lot faster than you normally would, which can make you seem scattered or flighty. Be sure to pause before answering questions and keep your rate of speech moderate. Breathing properly can help you feel calmer too, so while the interviewer is asking a question or recording your answers, take that opportunity to take a nice deep breath - quietly, you don't want to breathe heavily into the phone! ;-)
Also, keep your answers brief and to the point. Avoid rambling (another sign of anxiety!). Answer only the questions you are asked, unless the interviewer indicates he or she would like you to expand on a particular answer.
Tip #4 - Honest but Positive Answers
Probably the most challenging thing about interviews is figuring out how to respond to questions honestly without casting yourself in a negative light. For example, if the interviewer asks why you left your last job, you definitely don't want to launch into a tirade about what a jerk your old boss was and you "just couldn't take his crap anymore". Instead, you want to find a way to make all of your answers positive but still honest. This can take a little creativity sometimes!
Using the above example, you might answer: "I really enjoyed that job for the first 6 months but gradually I began to feel that the position didn't allow me to use my strongest skills to their full potential." That would be a general answer, but you could be more specific too: "I felt that the position wasn't challenging enough in allowing me to build my problem-solving skills and improve customer relations." That doesn't negate the fact that your boss may have been a jerk - but you don't have to focus on THAT aspect of the truth! :-)
Overall you want to be truthful with your answers, but also find a way to put a positive spin on them. Whatever you do, avoid blaming, pointing fingers, or expressing bitterness about previous jobs, employers, managers, or co-workers. You want to portray yourself as being mature and professional, which you can't do with a negative attitude!
Tip #5 - Be Yourself
Finally, remember that your interviewer is trying to determine one thing: whether YOU are the right person to join their team. But he or she will not be able to tell that if you're busy trying to be someone else! Interviews can be intimidating and you may think that you have to become this super-polished professional that "wows" the interviewer, but it's really not necessary.
Instead, be yourself. Certainly you want to be professional and mature in the way you communicate, but you don't have to be an emotionless robot to do so. Strive for a balance between warmth, friendliness and businesslike composure. You want to be relaxed but not too casual; friendly but not gushy; professional but not stiff.
If you would like more information about increasing your chances of being hired for telecommuting jobs, visit http://www.telecommuting123.com for step by step guidance in finding legitimate jobs, writing a powerful resume and cover letter, and more.
When seeking a legitimate telecommuting job, finding good leads is only half the battle. Even more important is knowing how to present yourself well during the interview process and convince the employer that you are the best person for the job. There is usually a fair bit of competition for any good job opening, but this is especially true for telecommuting jobs! Work at home positions that pay well are in high demand, so don't be surprised if you find yourself among many hundreds of applicants all vying for the same position!
The question you need to ask yourself is: How can I be sure I'm putting my best foot forward during the interview?
This article will share 5 easy tips for making your telecommuting job interview great.
Tip #1 - Be on Time
This should go without saying, but telephone and internet interviews should be taken as seriously as on-site interviews. Be sure to plan, prepare, and be there on time. If your interviewer is supposed to call you, be sitting by the phone (or computer if online) at least 15 minutes before your interview time. If you are supposed to contact your interviewer, try to call at exactly the time your interview was set for, or even just a couple minutes early - but no more than that. Calling too early will just annoy your interviewer because he or she may be trying to wrap up a few things before your interview.
Also, be prepared by having a copy of your resume and cover letter in front of you, so you can quickly reference it for answers you may be asked. You may also want to jot down some responses to common questions the interviewer may ask.
Tip #2 - NO Background Noise!
If your interview will be done by phone, I cannot stress enough the importance of having a totally quiet background. That means no children yelling or talking or begging for your attention, no dogs barking, no television or stereo blaring. This will be even more important if you are applying for a job that requires telephone work. Make arrangements to be sure you can give the interview your full attention without any background interruptions.
In addition, be sure to use a landline telephone, not a cell phone. The interview won't go well if you and your interviewer have to keep saying, "Pardon, can you repeat that?" Also be sure to TURN OFF CALL-WAITING if you have that on your phone. That would be another big annoyance if you keep getting clicks and beeps on the line while you're trying to talk.
Tip #3 - Slow and Steady
Sometimes nervousness can make you talk a lot faster than you normally would, which can make you seem scattered or flighty. Be sure to pause before answering questions and keep your rate of speech moderate. Breathing properly can help you feel calmer too, so while the interviewer is asking a question or recording your answers, take that opportunity to take a nice deep breath - quietly, you don't want to breathe heavily into the phone! ;-)
Also, keep your answers brief and to the point. Avoid rambling (another sign of anxiety!). Answer only the questions you are asked, unless the interviewer indicates he or she would like you to expand on a particular answer.
Tip #4 - Honest but Positive Answers
Probably the most challenging thing about interviews is figuring out how to respond to questions honestly without casting yourself in a negative light. For example, if the interviewer asks why you left your last job, you definitely don't want to launch into a tirade about what a jerk your old boss was and you "just couldn't take his crap anymore". Instead, you want to find a way to make all of your answers positive but still honest. This can take a little creativity sometimes!
Using the above example, you might answer: "I really enjoyed that job for the first 6 months but gradually I began to feel that the position didn't allow me to use my strongest skills to their full potential." That would be a general answer, but you could be more specific too: "I felt that the position wasn't challenging enough in allowing me to build my problem-solving skills and improve customer relations." That doesn't negate the fact that your boss may have been a jerk - but you don't have to focus on THAT aspect of the truth! :-)
Overall you want to be truthful with your answers, but also find a way to put a positive spin on them. Whatever you do, avoid blaming, pointing fingers, or expressing bitterness about previous jobs, employers, managers, or co-workers. You want to portray yourself as being mature and professional, which you can't do with a negative attitude!
Tip #5 - Be Yourself
Finally, remember that your interviewer is trying to determine one thing: whether YOU are the right person to join their team. But he or she will not be able to tell that if you're busy trying to be someone else! Interviews can be intimidating and you may think that you have to become this super-polished professional that "wows" the interviewer, but it's really not necessary.
Instead, be yourself. Certainly you want to be professional and mature in the way you communicate, but you don't have to be an emotionless robot to do so. Strive for a balance between warmth, friendliness and businesslike composure. You want to be relaxed but not too casual; friendly but not gushy; professional but not stiff.
If you would like more information about increasing your chances of being hired for telecommuting jobs, visit http://www.telecommuting123.com for step by step guidance in finding legitimate jobs, writing a powerful resume and cover letter, and more.
Cabin Crew Qualities and Suitability For the Job
By Albert Tay
Embarking on a journey to become a full fledge cabin crew is an exciting journey but not without it's challenges. Hence, it is important to be sure why, where and what the job entails in order to generate satisfaction from the career, financial and experience from the job as a cabin crew.
The objective of this chapter is to provide guidance and evaluation if this job is suitable for you. Very often, we leave this part of the job fit to the airline recruiter or interviewer. Of course, each of us would hope the interviewer accepts us regardless on whether we are a good candidate for the job. It is also possible that we try to mould ourselves to fit the job, as it is common for many to justify why the job is suitable for them.
Without proper evaluation, the journey of looking and working in this job can be frustrating and in many cases, disappointing due to the lack of understanding of the job requirements and it's implication on career growth, mindset, financial management/behavior and lifestyle. It also affects longer term career interest, transition to ground positions and personal quality of life.
In the following paragraphs, we hope to provide into insights on what the cabin crew job entails as well as some of its advantages and disadvantages.
Knowledge and Suitability for the Job
Role of a Cabin Crew
1. What do you think the role of cabin crew involves / What do you think is the primary responsibility of a cabin crew?
Cabin crew are on board an aircraft for safety reasons. In case of a real life emergency, the cabin crew must ensure that passengers follow the captains instructions, use safety equipment correctly, and stay as calm as possible.
During the flight, the cabin crew spends a lot of time looking after the comfort of the passengers. This involves giving special attention to children traveling alone, disabled people or people who are ill. Crew must appear friendly and sympathetic to anyone needing help, advise, reassurance, sympathize or even, at times, firm persuasion.
Other duties during the flight includes preparing and serving meals and drinks and cleaning up afterwards, selling duty free goods, and helping passengers use in flight entertainment system. There is also paperwork to complete, this can include flight reports, customs and immigrations documents, accounts of duty free sales and meal and drink orders.
At the end of the flight, the crew makes sure the passengers leave the aircraft safely.
2. What kind of individuals would fit this role?
An individual who has the following ideal qualities:
a. Dedication to details
b. Assertiveness
c. Adaptability
d. Cross Cultural Understanding/Sensitivity
e. Organized
f. Rule oriented
g. Good listening skills
h. Stable Emotion
i. Discipline
j. Friendliness
k. Humble disposition
l. Honesty
m. Sincerity
n. Warm personality
o. Approachability
p. Sense of humor.
The successful candidate will also need to have the ability to remain calm and level headed in emergency situations and be totally flexible about working with new people, flying different routes and working on unsociable hours.
3. Is the role of a cabin crew job glamorous?
Well, it certainly is perceived as glamorous and it certainly has its benefits of travel. People see cabin crew in action, jetting around the world and form an immediate impression of what they think the job involves. In fact, the customer sees only a fraction of what goes on in order to make each flight a success. The truth is, cabin crew has to combine working as a flying waiter or waitress, mobile shop assistant, cleaner, plus all the emergency services rolled into one. It can be an exhausting and disorienting lifestyle that places tough demands on family and social commitments. It is also physically demanding and many crew who do not have the right physical build (appropriate Body Mass Index or BMI) typically suffer lower back injuries on the job due to the amount of bending, squatting and lifting required to support the baggage, kart, trolley and equipment used on the aircraft.
Combined with the irregular flight time, sleep and meal times, cabin crew typically has irregular sleep pattern and meals. Hence it is not a glamorous job except for the perks of travel, hotels and nice uniforms for some international airlines.
With the onset of budget carriers, many cabin crew do not even travel beyond the aircraft that lands in the other countries only for transition before heading back to their home country. These are called turnaround flights and typically affects short haul flights of not more than 3 or 4 hours from the country of origin. The flight allowance, per diem, meals or layover allowance are also lower due to such quick turnaround patterns that are short haul flights.
4. What are the disadvantages of this position?
a. Jetlag
b. Irregular weight gain/loss
c. Minor cuts and injuries inflight
d. Lower back ache
e. Lack of mental stimulation in the long term
f. Physical fatigue
g. Dehydration
h. Rash due to overseas travel and weather changes
i. Allergies to hotel and aircraft environment
j. Harassment from opposite gender
k. Relationship commitment
l. Motion sickness
m. Financial and lifestyle habits
n. Hierarchy reporting structure
o. Irregular or unsociable work hours
5. What are the advantages of this position?
Working as a cabin crew member is not just a job, but a way of life and provides an alternative and very stimulating lifestyle where no two working days a likely to be the same. The sheer dynamics of different crew, passengers' profiles, destinations and roster structure ensures that there will always be variety. Furthermore, there are opportunities to visit places and experience cultures that are beyond most people reach. Cabin crew go to places they always dreamed of and find interests in destinations they would not necessarily have chosen to go to.
Additionally, it is a good feeling to deliver businessmen to their meetings on time, reunite family and friends; deliver newly weds to their honeymoon destinations, or vacation airs to their dream holiday place. There is genuine feeling of doing something worthwhile, in a unique way which not many jobs regularly produce at the end of a hard day.
p.s. From the desk of The Best Cabin Crew Recrutiment Site @ http://www.CabinCrewRecruitment.net - Latest Interview information, Answer to Myth and Rumours, ebooks, free recruitment date alert service.
Embarking on a journey to become a full fledge cabin crew is an exciting journey but not without it's challenges. Hence, it is important to be sure why, where and what the job entails in order to generate satisfaction from the career, financial and experience from the job as a cabin crew.
The objective of this chapter is to provide guidance and evaluation if this job is suitable for you. Very often, we leave this part of the job fit to the airline recruiter or interviewer. Of course, each of us would hope the interviewer accepts us regardless on whether we are a good candidate for the job. It is also possible that we try to mould ourselves to fit the job, as it is common for many to justify why the job is suitable for them.
Without proper evaluation, the journey of looking and working in this job can be frustrating and in many cases, disappointing due to the lack of understanding of the job requirements and it's implication on career growth, mindset, financial management/behavior and lifestyle. It also affects longer term career interest, transition to ground positions and personal quality of life.
In the following paragraphs, we hope to provide into insights on what the cabin crew job entails as well as some of its advantages and disadvantages.
Knowledge and Suitability for the Job
Role of a Cabin Crew
1. What do you think the role of cabin crew involves / What do you think is the primary responsibility of a cabin crew?
Cabin crew are on board an aircraft for safety reasons. In case of a real life emergency, the cabin crew must ensure that passengers follow the captains instructions, use safety equipment correctly, and stay as calm as possible.
During the flight, the cabin crew spends a lot of time looking after the comfort of the passengers. This involves giving special attention to children traveling alone, disabled people or people who are ill. Crew must appear friendly and sympathetic to anyone needing help, advise, reassurance, sympathize or even, at times, firm persuasion.
Other duties during the flight includes preparing and serving meals and drinks and cleaning up afterwards, selling duty free goods, and helping passengers use in flight entertainment system. There is also paperwork to complete, this can include flight reports, customs and immigrations documents, accounts of duty free sales and meal and drink orders.
At the end of the flight, the crew makes sure the passengers leave the aircraft safely.
2. What kind of individuals would fit this role?
An individual who has the following ideal qualities:
a. Dedication to details
b. Assertiveness
c. Adaptability
d. Cross Cultural Understanding/Sensitivity
e. Organized
f. Rule oriented
g. Good listening skills
h. Stable Emotion
i. Discipline
j. Friendliness
k. Humble disposition
l. Honesty
m. Sincerity
n. Warm personality
o. Approachability
p. Sense of humor.
The successful candidate will also need to have the ability to remain calm and level headed in emergency situations and be totally flexible about working with new people, flying different routes and working on unsociable hours.
3. Is the role of a cabin crew job glamorous?
Well, it certainly is perceived as glamorous and it certainly has its benefits of travel. People see cabin crew in action, jetting around the world and form an immediate impression of what they think the job involves. In fact, the customer sees only a fraction of what goes on in order to make each flight a success. The truth is, cabin crew has to combine working as a flying waiter or waitress, mobile shop assistant, cleaner, plus all the emergency services rolled into one. It can be an exhausting and disorienting lifestyle that places tough demands on family and social commitments. It is also physically demanding and many crew who do not have the right physical build (appropriate Body Mass Index or BMI) typically suffer lower back injuries on the job due to the amount of bending, squatting and lifting required to support the baggage, kart, trolley and equipment used on the aircraft.
Combined with the irregular flight time, sleep and meal times, cabin crew typically has irregular sleep pattern and meals. Hence it is not a glamorous job except for the perks of travel, hotels and nice uniforms for some international airlines.
With the onset of budget carriers, many cabin crew do not even travel beyond the aircraft that lands in the other countries only for transition before heading back to their home country. These are called turnaround flights and typically affects short haul flights of not more than 3 or 4 hours from the country of origin. The flight allowance, per diem, meals or layover allowance are also lower due to such quick turnaround patterns that are short haul flights.
4. What are the disadvantages of this position?
a. Jetlag
b. Irregular weight gain/loss
c. Minor cuts and injuries inflight
d. Lower back ache
e. Lack of mental stimulation in the long term
f. Physical fatigue
g. Dehydration
h. Rash due to overseas travel and weather changes
i. Allergies to hotel and aircraft environment
j. Harassment from opposite gender
k. Relationship commitment
l. Motion sickness
m. Financial and lifestyle habits
n. Hierarchy reporting structure
o. Irregular or unsociable work hours
5. What are the advantages of this position?
Working as a cabin crew member is not just a job, but a way of life and provides an alternative and very stimulating lifestyle where no two working days a likely to be the same. The sheer dynamics of different crew, passengers' profiles, destinations and roster structure ensures that there will always be variety. Furthermore, there are opportunities to visit places and experience cultures that are beyond most people reach. Cabin crew go to places they always dreamed of and find interests in destinations they would not necessarily have chosen to go to.
Additionally, it is a good feeling to deliver businessmen to their meetings on time, reunite family and friends; deliver newly weds to their honeymoon destinations, or vacation airs to their dream holiday place. There is genuine feeling of doing something worthwhile, in a unique way which not many jobs regularly produce at the end of a hard day.
p.s. From the desk of The Best Cabin Crew Recrutiment Site @ http://www.CabinCrewRecruitment.net - Latest Interview information, Answer to Myth and Rumours, ebooks, free recruitment date alert service.
Make a Successful Start on Your New Job
By Randy Place
Your Career Service presents this article about how to make a successful start on your new job because success will be judged by the impression you make during the all-important first week.
How to make a good impression and survive your first week at work? By hitting the street running in order to make a successful start and to prevent the first week from becoming your last.
When you make a great first impression at work, you'll achieve a good and lasting imprint. Just follow these four rules on your first week --
1. Make sure you and your boss are on the same page by reviewing your job description together. And talk to other employees who have held the same job. Ask supervisors for tips that will make you a better performer.
2. Your first week is also the time to develop office relationships. But do not share intimate secrets. Your co-workers are also you competitors. For example, if a dozen of you are in a training program, only a few may end up getting the super positions.
3. Remember to carry a notebook to record what goes on at meetings. Your manager will consider it a sign of respect that her words are worth writing down.
4. After meetings, take a few minutes to review what you heard. Then chat with the person who led the meeting to restate your understanding of the action plan.
For more great tips about how to start a new job, Read, "How to get ahead during your first week at work," a previous post on Your Career Service.
Randy Place, a career management consultant in private practice, and Internet host of Your Career Service -- http://www.yourcareerservice.com - Daily posts feature job-finding tips and career management advice. Topics include job interview tips, networking strategies, dealing with job loss, resume writing and personalized cover letters, getting ahead at work, how to handle standard interview questions and much more.
Your Career Service presents this article about how to make a successful start on your new job because success will be judged by the impression you make during the all-important first week.
How to make a good impression and survive your first week at work? By hitting the street running in order to make a successful start and to prevent the first week from becoming your last.
When you make a great first impression at work, you'll achieve a good and lasting imprint. Just follow these four rules on your first week --
1. Make sure you and your boss are on the same page by reviewing your job description together. And talk to other employees who have held the same job. Ask supervisors for tips that will make you a better performer.
2. Your first week is also the time to develop office relationships. But do not share intimate secrets. Your co-workers are also you competitors. For example, if a dozen of you are in a training program, only a few may end up getting the super positions.
3. Remember to carry a notebook to record what goes on at meetings. Your manager will consider it a sign of respect that her words are worth writing down.
4. After meetings, take a few minutes to review what you heard. Then chat with the person who led the meeting to restate your understanding of the action plan.
For more great tips about how to start a new job, Read, "How to get ahead during your first week at work," a previous post on Your Career Service.
Randy Place, a career management consultant in private practice, and Internet host of Your Career Service -- http://www.yourcareerservice.com - Daily posts feature job-finding tips and career management advice. Topics include job interview tips, networking strategies, dealing with job loss, resume writing and personalized cover letters, getting ahead at work, how to handle standard interview questions and much more.
Becoming a Personal Trainer - Know the Big Picture of Your Business
By Matt Mc Dermott
If you are interested in becoming a personal trainer, or have just become a personal trainer, then most likely you have some advanced knowledge about the human body and optimal health.
Many aspiring trainers and recent training certification graduates, however, do not have an advanced understanding of the business side of the industry.
As a new trainer you have four primary routes from which to choose for your career:
Whatever path in the industry you choose, it is useful to understand the big picture so that when you become a personal trainer you have a greater appreciation for the business side of your industry.
If you are a personal trainer and want to add an easy revenue stream by simply referring books to strangers who ask you for health and fitness, then get a free report at
http://www.FitnessMoneyMachine.com Once you get the report, build up your personal training and business marketing knowledge with free articles to help Personal Trainers.
If you are interested in becoming a personal trainer, or have just become a personal trainer, then most likely you have some advanced knowledge about the human body and optimal health.
Many aspiring trainers and recent training certification graduates, however, do not have an advanced understanding of the business side of the industry.
As a new trainer you have four primary routes from which to choose for your career:
- Working as an employee for a branch of a corporate-owned gym or other health-related facility, such as working as a trainer in the fitness center of a hospital chain
- Working as an employee of a small-chain (or independent) gym or health-related facility
- Working as an independent trainer where you train people in your own facility, their homes, or at a neutral site such as a gym where you pay a fixed amount or percentage for you to use the facilities
- Working as an online personal trainer and helping your clients over the phone and internet
- Content: What information do you offer your prospects and clients? Do you offer free reports, books, ebooks, your expertise in one-on-one training situations, tele-seminars, etc?
- Continuing education: As time progresses and new developments are made in the health and fitness industry, you will need to continue your education. Do you have a budget for acquiring new knowledge, or is it something that your gym provides you?
- Prospecting: How do you get more clients? Does your facility do all the marketing and provide them to you? Do you have to go out and attract new business? If any of the responsibility is yours, do you have a system for continuous prospect generation?
- Finances: Do you have to create budgets for your training business? Do you have to handle insurance and taxes? Do you have other trainers working with you, and therefore have payroll and employee taxes concerns?
- Technical: Do you require any technology for your business? Are you running your own website in order to attract business and/or serve your current clients? If so, do you have systems for maintaining technical security and ensuring that your systems are up and running?
- Advertising: Do you have to create your own advertising or does your gym handle that for you? If you do your own advertising, do you test and track which ad campaigns work and which do not? Do you have to select which advertising and traffic-generating methods work best
- Legal and Compliance: Do you have to do the work to ensure that your advertising is compliant with all regulations? Do you have to set up your own Limited Liability Corporation or other corporate entity? Do you have to get business licenses? Do you have processes set up to prevent "spam" e-mails?
Whatever path in the industry you choose, it is useful to understand the big picture so that when you become a personal trainer you have a greater appreciation for the business side of your industry.
If you are a personal trainer and want to add an easy revenue stream by simply referring books to strangers who ask you for health and fitness, then get a free report at
http://www.FitnessMoneyMachine.com Once you get the report, build up your personal training and business marketing knowledge with free articles to help Personal Trainers.
Top Skills Employers Want - How to Get the Job
By Peter Fisher
In today's competitive job market, made more difficult, employers are only interested finding new people who can not only contribute rapidly to the growth of the company, but also help to boost its efficiency and productivity.
What this means to you dear job seeker is that most employers will be looking for people who already have the most desirable job skills that meet the requirements of the organization.
So if you are one of those people who wish to make it to the job that you have been dreaming of, it is important for you to know the top skills that employers want.
This is a list of the important job skills a job seeker must have to be sure of landing a good job and just as importantly, keeping it.
1. The ability to find relevant information: Research Skill
Job seekers should possess the ability to systematically find relevant information through research not because they want a research job, but in order to do effective searches for the data needed by a particular activity.
2. Logical thinking: Information Handling
Most businesses regard the ability to handle and organize information to produce effective solutions as one of the top skills employers want. The ability to make sensible solutions regarding a spending proposal or an internal activity is valued.
3. IT Skill: Technological Ability
Most job openings will require people who are IT or computer literate or know how to operate different machines and office equipment, whether a PC or multi-function copier and scanner.
This doesn't mean that employers need people who are technology graduates. The simple fact that job seekers know the basic principles of using the technology is sufficient.
4. Getting your words understood: Communication Skills
Employers tend to value and hire people who are able to express their thoughts efficiently through verbal and written communication. People who land a good job easily are usually those who are adept in speaking and writing.
5. Efficiency: Organizational Skills
Organization is extremely important to maintain a harmonious working relationship in the company and the opposite, disorganization costs money. Hence, most employers want people who know how to arrange their work through methods that maintain orderliness in the workplace.
6. Getting on with others: Interpersonal Skill
Because the working environment consists of various kinds of personalities and people with different backgrounds, it is essential to possess the skill of communicating and working with people form different walks of life.
7. Career Advancement: Professional Growth
Employers prefer to hire people who are able to create a plan that will generate maximum personal and career growth. This means that you are willing to improve yourself professionally by learning new skills to keep up with developments in the workplace.
These are just some of the top skills employers want. Take note of these skills which demonstrate how to get the job and be successful in your every job seeking endeavor.
Peter Fisher is Coach and Webmaster for http://www.Your-Career-Change.com where you can download your free Special Career Change Report and 63 page PDF e-book "Big Book of Job Hunting Tips".
In today's competitive job market, made more difficult, employers are only interested finding new people who can not only contribute rapidly to the growth of the company, but also help to boost its efficiency and productivity.
What this means to you dear job seeker is that most employers will be looking for people who already have the most desirable job skills that meet the requirements of the organization.
So if you are one of those people who wish to make it to the job that you have been dreaming of, it is important for you to know the top skills that employers want.
This is a list of the important job skills a job seeker must have to be sure of landing a good job and just as importantly, keeping it.
1. The ability to find relevant information: Research Skill
Job seekers should possess the ability to systematically find relevant information through research not because they want a research job, but in order to do effective searches for the data needed by a particular activity.
2. Logical thinking: Information Handling
Most businesses regard the ability to handle and organize information to produce effective solutions as one of the top skills employers want. The ability to make sensible solutions regarding a spending proposal or an internal activity is valued.
3. IT Skill: Technological Ability
Most job openings will require people who are IT or computer literate or know how to operate different machines and office equipment, whether a PC or multi-function copier and scanner.
This doesn't mean that employers need people who are technology graduates. The simple fact that job seekers know the basic principles of using the technology is sufficient.
4. Getting your words understood: Communication Skills
Employers tend to value and hire people who are able to express their thoughts efficiently through verbal and written communication. People who land a good job easily are usually those who are adept in speaking and writing.
5. Efficiency: Organizational Skills
Organization is extremely important to maintain a harmonious working relationship in the company and the opposite, disorganization costs money. Hence, most employers want people who know how to arrange their work through methods that maintain orderliness in the workplace.
6. Getting on with others: Interpersonal Skill
Because the working environment consists of various kinds of personalities and people with different backgrounds, it is essential to possess the skill of communicating and working with people form different walks of life.
7. Career Advancement: Professional Growth
Employers prefer to hire people who are able to create a plan that will generate maximum personal and career growth. This means that you are willing to improve yourself professionally by learning new skills to keep up with developments in the workplace.
These are just some of the top skills employers want. Take note of these skills which demonstrate how to get the job and be successful in your every job seeking endeavor.
Peter Fisher is Coach and Webmaster for http://www.Your-Career-Change.com where you can download your free Special Career Change Report and 63 page PDF e-book "Big Book of Job Hunting Tips".
How Identifying Your Skills Will Get You the Job
By Peter Fisher
When you apply for a job, it is essential that you understand your own personal strengths and weaknesses and get ready to address them. By knowing your strengths and special skills, the chances of you getting the job you want will be much higher, so this is how identifying your skills will get you the job.
However, don't get too confident since appearing to be too confident or as a know-it-all will make your interviewer think you are not the type of employee they want and unfit for the job.
Identifying your skills
Start by identifying your skills. This is the way you get that job and being able to talk about your abilities and expertise gives you the best shot.
Lots of people have a hard time talking about their skills and abilities as it can sound like bragging, but you should not be shy or afraid to discuss your genuine skills.
It is important that you convey to your prospective new employer what your talents are. You should be able to sell your abilities to your employer, because that is how you will get the job that you want.
Whilst it is important that you don't appear arrogant or condescending, you must also avoid selling yourself short. When the interviewer asks you about your strengths or what separates you from the other applicants, you need to ready with a good answer. Of course, make sure that your resume highlights your skills and talents for your prospective employer to recognize.
Hard Skills and Soft Skills
There are two main types of skills, hard skills and soft skills. Hard skills are the things that you do such as knowing how to operate different kinds of machinery; having detailed knowledge of a specialized computer program, the ability to type fast or ability to use different types of tools.
Soft skills are abstract in nature and include personal qualities; being a good team player, having the ability to work on your own, being enthusiastic or organized and decisive. Work out how you can describe yours and you will get the job.
How To Start Identifying Your Skills That Will Get You The Job
Make a list of your previous jobs and experience you gained.
First thing to do is to make a list of all the organizations that you previously worked for and the things that you learned from these jobs. In other words, what can you now do (better) than you could before. There will be a lot of things to list and you should be careful enough not to forget even the smallest things or activities that you were involved with or organized yourself. It is also a good idea to list the volunteer activities that you participated in.
Look at your hobbies:
Although it might sound trivial at first, it is also very helpful to write down a list of your hobbies. There are a lot of abilities that your prospective employer may get from your hobby list. This will also give an idea of your personality. For example, if you were part of the college debating team, then your employer will understand not only that you have speaking and communicating skills, but that you have good analytical skills too. If you were a good cricket player, then your employer will see that you are good at team activities.
Think also of your daily life and the things that you do. Are you a well organized person who always keeps your things in proper order? Are you an extrovert that makes friends in a matter of minutes? These may seem ordinary and normal things to you, but your future employer will learn something about your personality from this.
Deciding what career you want:
After listing all your skills and all the things that you do well, you can think about what field or career you want to take up. Select the skills contained from your list and match it with the employment you are interested in. Looking at ads in the newspapers is a good way to find out what skills are wanted. Always take time to consider if your skills are relevant to the job that you are after.
It is important to know your skills every time you are job hunting as this is how identifying your skills will get you the job.
Peter Fisher is Coach and Webmaster for http://www.Your-Career-Change.com where you can download your free Special Career Change Report and 63 page PDF e-book "Big Book of Job Hunting Tips".
When you apply for a job, it is essential that you understand your own personal strengths and weaknesses and get ready to address them. By knowing your strengths and special skills, the chances of you getting the job you want will be much higher, so this is how identifying your skills will get you the job.
However, don't get too confident since appearing to be too confident or as a know-it-all will make your interviewer think you are not the type of employee they want and unfit for the job.
Identifying your skills
Start by identifying your skills. This is the way you get that job and being able to talk about your abilities and expertise gives you the best shot.
Lots of people have a hard time talking about their skills and abilities as it can sound like bragging, but you should not be shy or afraid to discuss your genuine skills.
It is important that you convey to your prospective new employer what your talents are. You should be able to sell your abilities to your employer, because that is how you will get the job that you want.
Whilst it is important that you don't appear arrogant or condescending, you must also avoid selling yourself short. When the interviewer asks you about your strengths or what separates you from the other applicants, you need to ready with a good answer. Of course, make sure that your resume highlights your skills and talents for your prospective employer to recognize.
Hard Skills and Soft Skills
There are two main types of skills, hard skills and soft skills. Hard skills are the things that you do such as knowing how to operate different kinds of machinery; having detailed knowledge of a specialized computer program, the ability to type fast or ability to use different types of tools.
Soft skills are abstract in nature and include personal qualities; being a good team player, having the ability to work on your own, being enthusiastic or organized and decisive. Work out how you can describe yours and you will get the job.
How To Start Identifying Your Skills That Will Get You The Job
Make a list of your previous jobs and experience you gained.
First thing to do is to make a list of all the organizations that you previously worked for and the things that you learned from these jobs. In other words, what can you now do (better) than you could before. There will be a lot of things to list and you should be careful enough not to forget even the smallest things or activities that you were involved with or organized yourself. It is also a good idea to list the volunteer activities that you participated in.
Look at your hobbies:
Although it might sound trivial at first, it is also very helpful to write down a list of your hobbies. There are a lot of abilities that your prospective employer may get from your hobby list. This will also give an idea of your personality. For example, if you were part of the college debating team, then your employer will understand not only that you have speaking and communicating skills, but that you have good analytical skills too. If you were a good cricket player, then your employer will see that you are good at team activities.
Think also of your daily life and the things that you do. Are you a well organized person who always keeps your things in proper order? Are you an extrovert that makes friends in a matter of minutes? These may seem ordinary and normal things to you, but your future employer will learn something about your personality from this.
Deciding what career you want:
After listing all your skills and all the things that you do well, you can think about what field or career you want to take up. Select the skills contained from your list and match it with the employment you are interested in. Looking at ads in the newspapers is a good way to find out what skills are wanted. Always take time to consider if your skills are relevant to the job that you are after.
It is important to know your skills every time you are job hunting as this is how identifying your skills will get you the job.
Peter Fisher is Coach and Webmaster for http://www.Your-Career-Change.com where you can download your free Special Career Change Report and 63 page PDF e-book "Big Book of Job Hunting Tips".
3 Resume and Job Interview Mistakes That Will Keep You Unemployed
By Freddie Johnson
You've sent out a ton of resumes but barely get any calls for job interviews.
When you do get a job interview, you never get a call back with a job offer.
Maybe you're making some crucial resume and job interview mistakes that are huge red flags for potential employers.
Red flags that tell employers not to hire you. Here are three resume and job interview mistakes you must avoid.
1. Long Employment Gaps
There are a lot of legitimate reasons for having gaps in employment.
The key is to make very clear, on your resume, why you have these gaps.
If a potential employer sees gaps and there isn't a reason on the resume or in the cover letter that explains why, they most likely won't even bother calling you for the job interview.
They'll assume you have something to hide.
Be sure to explain any gaps in employment.
2. No References
You don't need to place references no your resume.
But you definitely need a section that says something like "References: Upon Request."
Let your potential employer know that you are ready, willing and able to provide references.
3. Don't Be Negative About A Previous Employer
Potential employers don't want to hear all your negative thoughts about your previous employers.
It does not send a good signal and says a lot (in a bad way) about your attitude.
You can spin negatives into positives. Did you think your previous boss was preventing you from getting a promotion?
In your job interview state something like "I felt that I went as far as I could go at my previous job and I'm looking for an opportunity to move my career forward and face new challenges."
Don't try and hide things from a potential employer, either on your resume or in the job interview.
Learn more about how to write a resume that lands you the job you want at http://www.resume-cover-letter-and-career-tips.com
You've sent out a ton of resumes but barely get any calls for job interviews.
When you do get a job interview, you never get a call back with a job offer.
Maybe you're making some crucial resume and job interview mistakes that are huge red flags for potential employers.
Red flags that tell employers not to hire you. Here are three resume and job interview mistakes you must avoid.
1. Long Employment Gaps
There are a lot of legitimate reasons for having gaps in employment.
The key is to make very clear, on your resume, why you have these gaps.
If a potential employer sees gaps and there isn't a reason on the resume or in the cover letter that explains why, they most likely won't even bother calling you for the job interview.
They'll assume you have something to hide.
Be sure to explain any gaps in employment.
2. No References
You don't need to place references no your resume.
But you definitely need a section that says something like "References: Upon Request."
Let your potential employer know that you are ready, willing and able to provide references.
3. Don't Be Negative About A Previous Employer
Potential employers don't want to hear all your negative thoughts about your previous employers.
It does not send a good signal and says a lot (in a bad way) about your attitude.
You can spin negatives into positives. Did you think your previous boss was preventing you from getting a promotion?
In your job interview state something like "I felt that I went as far as I could go at my previous job and I'm looking for an opportunity to move my career forward and face new challenges."
Don't try and hide things from a potential employer, either on your resume or in the job interview.
Learn more about how to write a resume that lands you the job you want at http://www.resume-cover-letter-and-career-tips.com
Chef Certification Basics - Entering the World of Professional Cooking
By Dean Forster
It is very rare to see a working chef that doesn't have a degree in the cooking field. These chefs study at cooking schools to learn the skills associated with working in a kitchen. They then work their way up through the world of cooking or start their own restaurant. Before a chef even begins to work in a kitchen though, they first need to obtain their chef certification.
A chef certification is exactly what it sounds like: a degree or certificate that entitles the student to work as a chef. Unlike other fields, it isn't necessarily mandatory, but it is highly beneficial.
This little piece of paper proves to potential employers and restaurant owners that the individual has trained as a professional chef. Those with the degree know that they have a better chance at landing a high profile job than those individuals who decided to skip cooking school.
The American Culinary Federation offers a different type of chef certification for working cooks and those just out of school. An individual who goes this route can receive their piece of paper, without first attending school. Anyone who wants to take the tests to receive the chef certification can do so as long as they fill out the application and pay the fees to take the test.
This program forces the chef to showcase or highlight their skills in the kitchen. A trained instructor will show the individual the things they need to do and then grade that person as they do them. The day of the test the test taker will work in a real life kitchen, showing the instructor their skills. They'll be asked to do basic things such as chopping vegetables, peeling fruits and filleting a bone. Then they'll move on to more difficult things such as creating a stock or recipe from scratch under the watchful eye of the instructor. Those that meet a minimum score from the instructor will receive their chef certification documents in the mail.
Not everyone who attempts to get chef certification through the American Culinary Federation have a diploma and not all who have a diploma get certified. Often times an individual only picks one because both will show that they have the skills needed to work as a chef. Restaurants know that applicants with one type of certification are far better because they already know the ins and outs of working in a kitchen. That makes them a more valuable applicant.
Learn more about Culinary Scholarships and achieving certification as a qualified chef at => http://www.chefschoolsinformation.com
It is very rare to see a working chef that doesn't have a degree in the cooking field. These chefs study at cooking schools to learn the skills associated with working in a kitchen. They then work their way up through the world of cooking or start their own restaurant. Before a chef even begins to work in a kitchen though, they first need to obtain their chef certification.
A chef certification is exactly what it sounds like: a degree or certificate that entitles the student to work as a chef. Unlike other fields, it isn't necessarily mandatory, but it is highly beneficial.
This little piece of paper proves to potential employers and restaurant owners that the individual has trained as a professional chef. Those with the degree know that they have a better chance at landing a high profile job than those individuals who decided to skip cooking school.
The American Culinary Federation offers a different type of chef certification for working cooks and those just out of school. An individual who goes this route can receive their piece of paper, without first attending school. Anyone who wants to take the tests to receive the chef certification can do so as long as they fill out the application and pay the fees to take the test.
This program forces the chef to showcase or highlight their skills in the kitchen. A trained instructor will show the individual the things they need to do and then grade that person as they do them. The day of the test the test taker will work in a real life kitchen, showing the instructor their skills. They'll be asked to do basic things such as chopping vegetables, peeling fruits and filleting a bone. Then they'll move on to more difficult things such as creating a stock or recipe from scratch under the watchful eye of the instructor. Those that meet a minimum score from the instructor will receive their chef certification documents in the mail.
Not everyone who attempts to get chef certification through the American Culinary Federation have a diploma and not all who have a diploma get certified. Often times an individual only picks one because both will show that they have the skills needed to work as a chef. Restaurants know that applicants with one type of certification are far better because they already know the ins and outs of working in a kitchen. That makes them a more valuable applicant.
Learn more about Culinary Scholarships and achieving certification as a qualified chef at => http://www.chefschoolsinformation.com
Surefire Tips to Getting a Job in the Competitive Job Market
By Diane Demetrio
With the economic climate as it is today, it's no wonder that unemployment is rising and more people are out looking for a job. It is a more competitive market than ever, as there are not only a tremendous number of layoffs, but also a rising number of college graduates who are all competing for the same positions. Many people are out searching for "tips to getting a job", as the job market has significantly changed in the past few years.
The firs tip to getting a job is to make sure that you are employing all of the resources available to you. Networking is as important as ever, and you should also check newspapers as well, but don't forget to regularly check internet job sites as well. These are updated daily, and can hold a number of positions which are unavailable through more traditional resources.
Once you find a number of jobs to apply for, the next tip to getting a job is to make sure that your resume is polished and ready to go. Opt for sending out a shorter resume at first, leaving a more detailed resume to be presented at the first interview. A shorter resume is more likely to be read in depth than a longer one, and your talents are more likely to "jump off the page" and be noticed.
The last tip to getting a job is to be prepared for your interview. Whenever possible, try to be interviewed towards the end of the process, and make sure to practice answering many of the typical interviewing questions you are likely to be asked. Follow these tips to getting a job, and you'll have surefire success.
Need more great advice and information? Check out this job search blog, where the authors discuss resume formatting, interviewing, the job search process, and more.
http://www.jobsearchhelpforme.com
With the economic climate as it is today, it's no wonder that unemployment is rising and more people are out looking for a job. It is a more competitive market than ever, as there are not only a tremendous number of layoffs, but also a rising number of college graduates who are all competing for the same positions. Many people are out searching for "tips to getting a job", as the job market has significantly changed in the past few years.
The firs tip to getting a job is to make sure that you are employing all of the resources available to you. Networking is as important as ever, and you should also check newspapers as well, but don't forget to regularly check internet job sites as well. These are updated daily, and can hold a number of positions which are unavailable through more traditional resources.
Once you find a number of jobs to apply for, the next tip to getting a job is to make sure that your resume is polished and ready to go. Opt for sending out a shorter resume at first, leaving a more detailed resume to be presented at the first interview. A shorter resume is more likely to be read in depth than a longer one, and your talents are more likely to "jump off the page" and be noticed.
The last tip to getting a job is to be prepared for your interview. Whenever possible, try to be interviewed towards the end of the process, and make sure to practice answering many of the typical interviewing questions you are likely to be asked. Follow these tips to getting a job, and you'll have surefire success.
Need more great advice and information? Check out this job search blog, where the authors discuss resume formatting, interviewing, the job search process, and more.
http://www.jobsearchhelpforme.com
A Chance to See the World - Jobs on Cruise Ships
By Jenny Claire
It's not surprising how many people are so desperate to find out about different jobs on cruise ship. The cruise industry has changed a lot since I spent a couple of years working on a cruise ship many years ago.
However there are certain things that haven't changed and although working on a cruise ship can be an exciting adventure and the chance to see lots of new places and meet new people - it is also only really suitable for certain types of people.
Like everything in life there are pros and cons to getting a job on a cruise ship - the chance to be able to travel for free without spending months saving up beforehand is just the obvious benefit. Working on a cruise ship often appeals most to the younger generation as it seems like a chance to escape from their home town and see the world and in fact it is.
What people often don't think about though are the practicalities of getting a job on a cruise ship. The first one is quite obvious but it is surprising how many people don't think about this - space.
Sure you're working on a huge floating hotel with lots of room and luxury amenities but for the guests. Every square foot that is used for employees facilities is one less square foot that can be used for the guests and to make money on. This usually means that the staff living quarters can be on the small side - unless you're senior member of staff you're likely to have to share a room - even single rooms will normally be fairly compact.
You have to be a 'people' person - you'll spend all your time with people both on and off shift - cruise ship patrons can be quite demanding so being pleasant and friendly can be a challenge unless your customer orientated. Appearance is also crucial - you have to look your best at all times when on duty and those hours can be quite long.
If you think about those sort of ideas you'll probably get an idea if working on a cruise ship is for you. It's hard work and long hours and if you're the sort of person who needs to clock off and forget about your job after finishing then a cruise ship job is definitely not for you.
For flexible hard working people though the job can offer great rewards - you'll get to meet and socialise with people from all over the world. You'll also be able to see and visit places all over the planet. Financially the jobs usually play pretty well but when you remember that your entire income is essentially disposable with your board, bills and food all covered it does become extremely lucrative.
But perhaps the best way to think of getting a job on a cruise ship is to consider it an adventure and a chance to travel the world.
Trying to find a job on a cruise ship can be quite daunting - as employers they are often very careful for obvious reasons - once they set sail they can't get a replacement for a lazy worker.
If you want to learn some tips and advice from some one who was a recruiter for cruise ship jobs - take a look at this report. It could be the best investment you ever make.
Jobs on cruise ship
It's not surprising how many people are so desperate to find out about different jobs on cruise ship. The cruise industry has changed a lot since I spent a couple of years working on a cruise ship many years ago.
However there are certain things that haven't changed and although working on a cruise ship can be an exciting adventure and the chance to see lots of new places and meet new people - it is also only really suitable for certain types of people.
Like everything in life there are pros and cons to getting a job on a cruise ship - the chance to be able to travel for free without spending months saving up beforehand is just the obvious benefit. Working on a cruise ship often appeals most to the younger generation as it seems like a chance to escape from their home town and see the world and in fact it is.
What people often don't think about though are the practicalities of getting a job on a cruise ship. The first one is quite obvious but it is surprising how many people don't think about this - space.
Sure you're working on a huge floating hotel with lots of room and luxury amenities but for the guests. Every square foot that is used for employees facilities is one less square foot that can be used for the guests and to make money on. This usually means that the staff living quarters can be on the small side - unless you're senior member of staff you're likely to have to share a room - even single rooms will normally be fairly compact.
You have to be a 'people' person - you'll spend all your time with people both on and off shift - cruise ship patrons can be quite demanding so being pleasant and friendly can be a challenge unless your customer orientated. Appearance is also crucial - you have to look your best at all times when on duty and those hours can be quite long.
If you think about those sort of ideas you'll probably get an idea if working on a cruise ship is for you. It's hard work and long hours and if you're the sort of person who needs to clock off and forget about your job after finishing then a cruise ship job is definitely not for you.
For flexible hard working people though the job can offer great rewards - you'll get to meet and socialise with people from all over the world. You'll also be able to see and visit places all over the planet. Financially the jobs usually play pretty well but when you remember that your entire income is essentially disposable with your board, bills and food all covered it does become extremely lucrative.
But perhaps the best way to think of getting a job on a cruise ship is to consider it an adventure and a chance to travel the world.
Trying to find a job on a cruise ship can be quite daunting - as employers they are often very careful for obvious reasons - once they set sail they can't get a replacement for a lazy worker.
If you want to learn some tips and advice from some one who was a recruiter for cruise ship jobs - take a look at this report. It could be the best investment you ever make.
Jobs on cruise ship
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