CollegeRecruiter.com Insights by Career Counselors Blog

Over on the SittingXLegged blog, there is a post about candidates who accept a job and then back out of the offer in order to take another, higher paying position. Rescinding an offer carries significant risk, because by doing so your integrity may be questioned and your reputation damaged.

Sometimes candidates take jobs that they are not completely satisfied with and continue to look in the hopes that something better will come along. A better strategy is to negotiate an offer so the final offer is attractive to you and compelling enough for you to make a serious commitment to the new position. If you are not sure if you want a position because you are simultaneously courting other employers, either continue to negotiate or ask for more time before making your final decision. In the long run, this is a much better strategy than taking a job and then changing your mind.

Article by Barbara Safani and courtesy of Career Solvers. Barbara Safani is the owner of Career Solvers, has over ten years of experience in career management, recruiting, executive coaching, and organizational development. She is a triple certified resume writer and frequent contributor to numerous career-related publications

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 30, 2007 at 7:32 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Resumes are great tools for introducing yourself to potential employers and recruiters. But resumes do little to foster the relationship between you and decision makers in your field. Blogging gives you the opportunity to consistently authenticate the skill set demonstrated on your resume and continue a conversation with the people who need to know who you are. If you've been thinking about incorporating a blog into your self-marketing strategy, below are eight blogging tips to help you move forward.

Setting Up A Blog

A number of services are available for setting up a blog quickly and easily. Hosting services like Blogger or Typepad provide formatting templates and blog publishing systems like MoveableType and WordPress help users produce custom-designed sites.

Keep it Real

Writing for the web is different from writing for other mediums. Readers expect to see a personal side of you. They look for quality information from a trusted source. You want them to feel comfortable with you and the information you present so they keep coming back to your blog. Avoid "corporate speak" and use a conversational, but professional tone in your posts, similar to your speaking style during a networking meeting . Your audience wants to feel like you are talking directly to them.

Stay on Topic

The best blogs are those that create community for a specific niche. They are not designed to be everything to everyone. If you are marketing your candidacy to multiple industries, your blog should address common, yet specific issues that are relevant to your profession. If your expertise benefits a very narrow niche, your blog should center on industry or product-specific information that is important to your audience and an extension of your brand.

Stay In the Now

Since most blogs list entries in reverse chronological format, it's critical that you blog frequently; once a week is acceptable, but two to three times per week is ideal. If the "shelf life" of your blog posts has expired, your readership may question the value of your posts or your commitment to your blog and your profession. Try to schedule time each week for blogging so your content stays fresh and your readership stays intact.

Use Keywords to Boost Search Engine Rankings

Blogs contribute to the frequency with which search engines such as Google and MSN identify a person. You can accelerate your page ranking by incorporating relevant keywords into your blog copy and headlines. "Blogrolling", a term that means setting up links on the blog, also boosts positioning on Web searches.

Build Credibility

By writing frequently and writing about a specific topic, you build credibility with your readers. If readers return to your blog, they are likely to also want to comment on your blog and connect personally. Since they have already established somewhat of a relationship with you, they are more likely to be "pre-sold" when they inquire about your availability for new opportunities.

Create Community

A great blog creates a community where people can come to learn, build relationships, exchange ideas, and have their concerns validated. Your blog is a virtual extension of your network. Expect to give more than you receive in the form of content and advice. In no time visitors will be tuning in for your latest installment, recommending your blog to others, and spreading the word about you and your expertise.

Get the Word Out

Include a link to your blog on all your personal marketing collateral including business cards, email signature line, published articles, bios, and voicemail recordings. This strategy encourages prospective employers to visit your blog and helps them stay connected to you.

Setting up a blog is easy; maintaining one is hard work and a significant commitment. But the process can be extremely satisfying and the benefits to your job search can be priceless. As an expert in your field, you offer a unique slant on your area of knowledge. Blogging raises not only your individual credibility, but that of your industry as well.

Interested in learning more about how a blog can help you in your search? Contact us for details.

Article by Barbara Safani and courtesy of Career Solvers. Barbara Safani is the owner of Career Solvers, has over ten years of experience in career management, recruiting, executive coaching, and organizational development. She is a triple certified resume writer and frequent contributor to numerous career-related publications

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 30, 2007 at 6:26 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Reprinted courtesy of TheCareerNews.com

CHICAGO, IL -- Are you about to start a job search or in the midst of looking for a new job? Are you thinking about waiting or putting your job search on hold? If so, think again. Contrary to popular opinion, this is a good time of year to find a job. Employers don't stop hiring just because it's the holidays.

Executive Dave Harshbarger explains why hiring continues, regardless of the time of year. "For many of us, the holiday season is a time to sit back and relax, to take a break from business, to focus our attention on friends and family. For businesses, the needs that drive hiring throughout the year don't change just because the paid holidays are bunched up on the last pages of the calendar."

He explains that at many companies hiring and personnel activities continue at all times of year, because the needs that drive hiring - competitive pressures, growing markets, strategic initiatives - don't take a break.

Article by Abridged: About.com, and reprinted from TheCareerNews.com. Get the latest breaking News, Tips and Tools for your job search, Free!

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 30, 2007 at 6:18 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

When I counsel clients on their job search during the holiday season, they often tell me that they plan to put their search on hold because they think that everyone is out of town and no one is hiring during this season.

Actually, December can be a great time to step up your search campaign because so many applicants believe this misperception of the market. When people drop out of the job market during the holiday season, there's an opportunity for you to accelerate your search in a climate with decreased competition. Below are four ways to increase your visibility in 2007 to prepare for a more robust search in 2008.

Informational Interviews

Savvy job seekers know that the more visible they are, the greater the chances of meeting the person that can connect them with a viable job opportunity. This concept may be even more important when you are searching during the holiday season. Some job seekers make the mistake of taking a break from their search during December because they assume that no one is in the hiring mode. The reality is that holiday networking may be more productive than networking during other times of the year. Decision makers' schedules are not as tight and they may be more generous with their time. By establishing relationships with the key players now, you are more likely to be remembered when the hiring picks up.

Family and Community Parties

Families and friends tend to make more of an effort to get together during the holiday season. Family and community gatherings are excellent opportunities to reconnect with old friends and hook up with new contacts. Schools, religious groups, health clubs, and support groups are just of few of the communities where holiday activities may be taking place. There is always a chance to share information relevant to these communities as well as information relevant to your personal and professional life at these events.

Business Functions

Most companies and professional associations host a holiday party in December. By attending a spouse's company party or an event hosted by a professional organization, you can build powerful business connections in a relaxed and festive environment.

Holiday Cards

Holiday cards provide a natural "touch point" or opportunity to reconnect with friends, family, and colleagues. Reach out to your network now with some "best wishes" and holiday cheer and you will have a natural entrée into a job-related conversation in the New Year.

By establishing relationships during the holiday season, you increase the likelihood of making inroads with decision makers who may be hiring in the New Year. Hiring managers may be more accessible, more relaxed, and in a better frame of mind during the winter holiday season. Create a networking plan now to take advantage of the unique networking opportunities available during the month of December.

Article by Barbara Safani and courtesy of Career Solvers. Barbara Safani is the owner of Career Solvers, has over ten years of experience in career management, recruiting, executive coaching, and organizational development. She is a triple certified resume writer and frequent contributor to numerous career-related publications

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 30, 2007 at 5:21 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Reprinted courtesy of TheCareerNews.com

CINCINNATI, OH -- Use clear, strong, direct language to get your point across quickly and crisply. Keep sentences, paragraphs, and lists short. Curb any tendency to speak for more than 90-120 seconds without interacting with your interviewer. Time yourself, then listen. If you've been practicing a 3-minute introduction, you'll be surprised at how LONG that is when you're listening.

I think some of the over-communicating comes from fear that if you leave something out, you'll miss an important point that the reader or interviewer is looking for. Relax. Talk about what you've done and how it's been valuable (more profit, less cost, happier customers and employees, greater market share, and so forth) - and be specific! Don't spout generalities - tell stories!

Even better - listen, ask questions, and react to what you learn. Make it more about "them" and less about "you." You'll position yourself as a partner committed to solving problems - and isn't that what employers are looking for?

Article by Louise Kursmark, YourBestImpression.com, and reprinted from TheCareerNews.com. Get the latest breaking News, Tips and Tools for your job search, Free!

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 30, 2007 at 5:12 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

The topic of interviewing, just like job search, can seem like a bottomless pit of information. But the really crucial information revolves around 3 concepts:

1. KNOW YOURSELF
   • What is it you really want in a job or self-employment? What will make you eager to get up in the morning to get to work?
   • Do you know your motivated skills, interests, life and career values, behavioral style (personality), and personal brand attributes?
   • What about your wants and needs? Are you able to prioritize them?
   • Can you define the kind of career or entrepreneurship area that would be a good fit?
2. KNOW YOUR TARGET AUDIENCE
   • What organizations would offer the best match with YOU?
   • How does company culture, job function, compensation, work setting, company mission and vision, and any other factors important to you factor into your search?
   • Can you define your ideal employer or self-employed situation?<
   • What can you find out about them that would be relevant to your job search and your interview(s)?
3. KNOW HOW TO SELF-MARKET
   • Can you articulate your value proposition verbally and in writing?
   • Do you know your personal branding "uniqueness" and how to capitalize on it?
   • Are you able to use your time effectively and efficiently to land interviews quickly?
   • What modes of communication are "in sync" with your brand?
   • Do you have a self-marketing communications plan?
   • What must you learn or what skills need polishing for your interview success?

Here's a short YouTube video describing the Google interview process. Would Google be a good match for you? If so, could you "sell" yourself in the interview?

From HRWorld online check out this article about illegal interview questions for pointers from HR folks on what can and cannot be asked by an interviewer. Read the comments section too for some fascinating retorts.

Finally, the absolute "must-have" for your career / job search toolbox is CareerHub's no-cost Insider's Guide to Interviewing with articles from career experts that address factors for interview success. You will note the linked page also contains 3 other valuable (and no-charge) e-books: Insider's Guide to Networking, Insider's Guide to Resume Writing, and Insider's Guide to Job Search. All of these resources will aid you in answering the key questions listed above for ultimate interview AND career success.

By Susan Guarneri and courtesy of CareerHub.com. The Career Hub blog connects job seekers with experts in career counseling, resume writing, personal branding and recruiting.

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 30, 2007 at 4:31 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Reprinted courtesy of TheCareerNews.com

ST. PAUL, MN -- How you deal with the anger, frustration and loss of self-esteem from a job loss plays a key role in future success. Being resilient in your job search and career is the key. Employers are turned off by an applicant who complains about their previous employers. That's why you need to cleanse that bad experience from your memory before applying or interviewing for a new job.

Write about how you feel. Include all the things you would like to have said to your previous bosses but didn't. Dwelling on "If only ... " keeps you mired in the past and is discouraging. Discover something of value in your experiences. People hit with major, life-disrupting experiences will tend to have either a victim/blaming reaction or a coping/learning reaction. Find the balance. Why was it good that this happened?

It's important to move forward using the experience as a learning factor. Take a moment to think back to a time when you set a goal, made a commitment, did the hard work and succeeded. Celebrate that success, and think about the specific steps you took to make that happen. Now, think about how you can apply those same skills and qualities to your current situation.

Article abridged from StarTribune.com, and reprinted from TheCareerNews.com. Get the latest breaking News, Tips and Tools for your job search, Free!

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 30, 2007 at 8:30 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

How to Sound Smart

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

Up for your dream job? If you landed a job interview or two, congratulations. You've already made it further that 98% of the applicants.

That's right. Only 2% of the pool of applicants actually gets called in for an interview.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 29, 2007 at 6:15 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Turn Your Boring, Routine Job into Something More Challenging and Rewarding

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

So, your job is mundane and boring. You're an artist stuck in a data entry job, a social planner extraordinaire trapped in a customer service call center, or a budding writer who spends your days completing pre-formatted reports.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 29, 2007 at 6:10 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Reprinted courtesy of TheCareerNews.com

FLUSHING, NY -- A little creativity can give the much needed punch to any resume. Endorsements are one such strategy. Ever noticed how advertisers use celebrity endorsers to make a stronger pitch? Job seekers have the same option when it comes to resumes. Using testimonials from employers, clients, vendors, professors, peers, team members, etc. can add more credibility to any resume. Having a well-networked endorser on your side is certainly an added bonus.

Potential resources for testimonials could include appreciation letters, reference letters, e-mails, performance reports, thank you notes, client reports, and even verbal comments. If existing material does not help, don't hesitate to seek feedback on your work. The key is to find remarks that clearly spell the potential benefits you offer to the employer.

In case of a sales representative, for example, the following comment could be useful: "John can sell ice to Eskimos. He has generated some of the biggest leads in our sales pipeline." - Dave Smith, District Sales Manager

Article by Nimish Thakkar, Career Coach and Owner of SaiCareers.com, and reprinted from TheCareerNews.com. Get the latest breaking News, Tips and Tools for your job search, Free!

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 29, 2007 at 4:26 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Or at Least Fake It

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

You may not like your job. You may not like your boss. You may not like the people you work with, but since when did it become acceptable for people to slack off at work?

In any profession there is always a set group of people who just don't want to work.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 29, 2007 at 4:02 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Reprinted courtesy of TheCareerNews.com

SAN FRANCISCO, CA -- When you're on the lookout for your next career move, many factors play into deciding which job is right for you. Though salary is one of the biggest issues for job seekers, it can be greatly to your advantage to take a closer look at the perks many companies are offering.

Companies are looking to find new ways to recruit workers and keep existing employees happy and productive, even if they can't afford to give them a raise. Here are the top benefits based on employee levels: Executive-level employees get cell phones, relocation expenses and supplemental life insurance. Middle-management employees receive cell phones, supplemental medical insurance or reimbursement. A few other perks include: Tuition reimbursement, on-site daycare, on-site fitness gym, and on-site cafeteria.

The list of job perks is no longer limited to these examples, though. The inclusion of on-site services such as manicures, laundry and daycare are enabling employees to cut their errands in half. Yoga classes and even napping have been encouraged to cut back the daily errands and reduce the stress levels of employees. With all of the advantages out there, job seekers should be aware of the perks that could best improve their lifestyles.

Article abridged from CareerBuilder.com, and reprinted from TheCareerNews.com. Get the latest breaking News, Tips and Tools for your job search, Free!

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 29, 2007 at 8:07 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

Most people regard getting fired as a black mark on their resume. However, many people who hire and fire everyday, know that they have released good people who were a bad fit for their company. Getting fired from your job can very well mean that you just got off on the wrong foot and never could get on track.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 28, 2007 at 6:28 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Reprinted courtesy of TheCareerNews.com

NEW YORK, NY -- Between the ages of 20 and 70, most of us will spend one third of our life at work. That's a whole lot of time to spend in frustration or unhappiness. Government statistics show that 1 out of every 5 people change jobs each year. If you're unhappy in your career - now is the time to get a new one!

Find your passion and plan ahead. Don't wait until you're desperate to quit your job. You should consider what you're good at and what you enjoy doing. Then research your industry and get yourself excited about your new career before you start it. Make sure you choose your new industry wisely. Taking time to research industries will reward you in the end. Know the business before jumping in. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has information that can help you learn about how strong an industry is.

Always be flexible. Sure, an internship doesn't sound great, but could it get you a job? Lower-paying positions can sometimes be the ticket to long-term roles with growth potential if you show employers that you know your stuff in the first few months of a new job.

Article abridged from LearningAndLife.com, and reprinted from TheCareerNews.com. Get the latest breaking News, Tips and Tools for your job search, Free!

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 28, 2007 at 5:05 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Beat Boredom and Stay Ahead of the Curve

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

It's pretty common in today's working environment to have some slack times. Most work has a natural ebb and flow, overwhelming you one day, and leaving you with nothing to do the next. In a perfect world, we'd be allowed to go home or play Monopoly during the down-times, but in may work-places, admitting that you've got nothing to do - and looking like it - is a deadly sin.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 28, 2007 at 3:57 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Reprinted courtesy of TheCareerNews.com

LOS ANGELES, CA -- While career planning and job seeking can be complicated topics, only two things are truly important: 1) If you are going to work, do something you enjoy, are good at and want to do. 2) If you want to find or change your job, do it in less time.

ou have hundreds of skills, but you probably take for granted things you do well that others would find hard or impossible to do. And because you take these for granted, explaining your skills for a desired position is difficult. In career planning and job search, knowing what you can do well and being able to explain it is important. The better you understand yourself, the more successful you are at planning your future and the faster you get results.

Learn to identify your skills and clearly define your job objective. If you know what sort of job you want, learn how to find out more about it and other jobs that use similar skills. More importantly, learn that a career is different than a job. A job is what you do to earn money; a career is what you do with your life.

Article by Michael Farr, JIST Publishing, Inc, and reprinted from TheCareerNews.com. Get the latest breaking News, Tips and Tools for your job search, Free!

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 28, 2007 at 3:02 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Tips for the Job-Seeker

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

You've received that much anticipated call-although they've received 500 resumes, somehow, yours was one of the ones they liked. They want you to come in for an interview. The following are some important steps to ensure that you will get past the next step as well, and receive an offer.

Research
Know everything there is to know about the company and the people with whom you will be meeting.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 28, 2007 at 2:34 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

Whether you are an award winning landscape photographer, a marketing consultant, a public relations specialist with an expertise in product launches or a creative freelance writer you probably know by now that in order to secure assignments or gain employment or any status you have to successfully prove yourself.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 28, 2007 at 1:33 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

At three o'clock in the morning, most people are asleep. I, with three and a half hours to go before I have to get up for work, am haphazardly throwing on clothes before I race out the door. Tones are pulsing from my radio and you can sense the tension in the dispatcher's voice, "...10-50, at least two PI's..." I'm nearly blinded as my emergency light bounces off the rain and fog, windshield wipers squeak back and forth, and my voice croaks from sleep as I radio in to dispatch that I am enroute to the scene.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 27, 2007 at 6:22 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

The current market saturation for portrait photographers is leaving many professionals feeling pressured to create something new and different with their photography to stand out from the crowd and gain more business.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 27, 2007 at 6:17 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

Being out of a job, and searching through the job market can be quite stressful. Once you score that first interview from a possible job prospect though, things can get quite exciting, while being nervous all at the same time.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 27, 2007 at 6:15 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Preparing for the Work from Home Job Interview

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

It may seem to be a misnomer, but just because you are interested in a work from home job, doesn't exclude the fact that you will most likely need to prepare yourself with some traditional job seeking strategies.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 27, 2007 at 6:11 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

Finding a Transcription job can be somewhat difficult to do. If you know the right places to look, you might find one right away, as long as the company is hiring. There are a few places which hire without experience.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 27, 2007 at 6:09 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Some people think that video resumes are the next big thing in job search. While some short streaming video in a web portfolio that is used to communicate a candidate's personal brand or unique selling proposition might be of value to a hiring manager at some point during the interview process, I'm not convinced that the video resume is the way to go and here's why:

• Most video resumes are long and boring. It's hard enough for hiring managers to sift through paper resumes to find the right competencies and accomplishments that are relevant to their market. Can you imagine viewing and fast forwarding through hundreds of video resumes?
• The video resume may lead to more job discrimination suits. Does the video resume put the 50-something, physically challenged, or ethnically diverse candidate at a disadvantage? Maybe or maybe not, but the potential for discrimination suits is bound to rise if video resumes become a mainstream tool for sourcing candidates.
• A poorly produced video resume could knock out an otherwise viable candidate. If the video resume has an amateur feel to it or has poor sound quality or lighting, could the candidate loose ground with the hiring manager? A poorly written or designed resume could have a similar impact, but might be more forgivable, less memorable, or less likely to become fodder for the hiring manager's office mates (remember the Yale student who used a video resume to apply for a position at UBS?)

Want to hear more about my musings on video resumes? Check out this recent article on MSNBC.

Article by Barbara Safani and courtesy of Career Solvers. Barbara Safani is the owner of Career Solvers, has over ten years of experience in career management, recruiting, executive coaching, and organizational development. She is a triple certified resume writer and frequent contributor to numerous career-related publications

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 27, 2007 at 3:41 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

I never thought I'd be a TV junkie, but alas, I have a lineup of shows I just can't miss four out of the seven days of the week. And just when the holiday madness is over every year, I look forward to snuggling up on the couch with a new season of 24 and LOST.

But not in '08. The writers' strike went and messed that up. And I couldn't be happier about it! As a fellow writer, I know what it's like sometimes for people to take what I do for granted. "Anyone can write," people say. My grandmother brags that my sister is a professor, but when she gets to me, she says I have a beautiful son (which I'm proud to say I do!). But I also have a career as a writer, grandma - and people even pay me for it! Go figure... So I can imagine what it must be like for a TV writer to hear remarks like: "TV stinks... I could write something better than these guys." Sure, you can.

Beyond relating to the plight of the writer, though, there is much to learn about careers and career education from the writers' strike:

• Writing is a necessary skill; good writing is a talent. Ever go to a restaurant and see numerous typos on the menu? For me, anyway, it reflects poorly on the business as a whole. That's because in nearly every industry, the ability to communicate well is coveted by employers and consumers. How you present an idea at a meeting, write up a business plan, even your e-mail address (hotmama08@inappropriate.com anyone?) is a reflection of the job you'll do. That's why people pay writers, editors, and designers to help them get their message out the right way.
• You don't have to settle for paltry pay just because you're lucky enough to love what you do. That goes for writers, artists, and other "starving" professionals, too. If you keep your skills updated, have a warm personality, and turn in flawless work, you should be able to find an employer or client who appreciates the work you do. It may take a little creativity and continuing education, though, to stay fresh and not get stuck in a dead-end job. Which brings us to the next point...
• We don't need to watch that much TV. As the strike continues, we're faced with a future that includes re-runs, bad D-list celebrity reality shows, and five nights of "Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?" See that as the perfect excuse to incorporate some TV-free nights into your week (unless of course, you actually like dumb quiz shows) and take some courses or market your talents by building a Web site, for instance. /li>

• There is strength in numbers. Marching into your boss' office and demanding better pay or you'll walk off the job probably won't end up too well for you. But when a large group like the writer's union bands together, their collective voice is heard. While you may not be in a union, you can still benefit from being part of a group. Join professional associations and attend their networking events to learn about job openings, career training opportunities, and more.

I hope the writers wind up getting their fair share, and not just because I'm dying to know how the LOST crew made it off the island, or what impending doom Jack Bauer will take on next. They deserve compensation for entertaining us TV junkies night after night. Don't believe me? Just see how you feel after being subjected to "Temptation Island: The Next Generation."

Courtesy of CollegeSurfing Insider.

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 27, 2007 at 2:51 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Reprinted courtesy of TheCareerNews.com

SPRING LAKE, MI -- Many resumes list a chronological history of where you worked. That's nice if it's your obituary, but your resume needs to be a sales tool. Whether you are a phlebotomist, accounts payable clerk or in shipping and receiving, as a job seeker you are now in sales and marketing.

Stating your benefits and features to a prospective employer will be key. A benefit would be stating the advantage to the employer for hiring you. Include what you can offer that makes you unique and different from 100 other candidates. Examples would be, proven leadership abilities, having the ability to speak in front of groups or being Microsoft Office proficient. Your features could include characteristics such as: punctual, high level of integrity, detail oriented, or flexible.

Employers hire people that can solve their problems. By knowing your benefits and features it will make it easier to sell what you know and solve their problems. Then when asked the question, "Why should we hire you?" you'll be prepared to state your benefits and features and get the job!

Article by Bobbie Twa, Career Coach - Changing Directions, and reprinted from TheCareerNews.com. Get the latest breaking News, Tips and Tools for your job search, Free!

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 27, 2007 at 2:39 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Reprinted courtesy of TheCareerNews.com

LOS ANGELES, CA -- What makes a potential candidate stand out from the others in the room? Is it how they're dressed, the technical skills they have to offer, the advanced degree they've earned or how they carry themselves in a group setting? In the business environment, a new skill set is emerging. Compared with the traditional hard skills, or the technical requirements of a job, the interpersonal soft skills a potential employee can offer are quickly gaining the attention of employers.

These career-boosting soft touches are meant to complement the standard candidate qualifications and can include polished communication skills, a professional demeanor, enthusiasm and a beyond-the-call commitment to exceed customer expectations. While technical know-how is a necessity for most jobs, soft skills are becoming increasingly important to employers because they often can predict whether or not a prospective employee will be a good fit for a company's particular work environment and culture.

For candidates, effective communication and interpersonal skills are vital to promote marketability to potential employers and to be competitive in the workplace. Combine both technical and personal skill sets and you have the characteristics of a strong, well-rounded leader-one that is highly sought after by the business community.

Article abridged from ARA News, and reprinted from TheCareerNews.com. Get the latest breaking News, Tips and Tools for your job search, Free!

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 27, 2007 at 11:34 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Over on the Jobs in the Money blog, there's a post about how confusing company dress codes can be for employees and how difficult it is to interpret the nuances of a company's dress policy. The interview dress code is pretty straight forward. Business attire still reigns supreme. But once you are on the job, what influences the dress code? Is it determined by how much interaction you have with clients on a regular basis? If you work for a casual clothing company, do you don their latest tank tops and flip flops or stick with something more corporate?

When you are interviewing, check out the dress of your prospective boss and colleagues. After an offer is extended and you are asking your final questions about the position and the company, don't be afraid to ask about the dress code if you have doubts. The first 90 days in a new job are critical. Everything, even your style of dress, may be under the corporate microscope, so take the time to become acquainted with the company's dress code.

Article by Barbara Safani and courtesy of Career Solvers. Barbara Safani is the owner of Career Solvers, has over ten years of experience in career management, recruiting, executive coaching, and organizational development. She is a triple certified resume writer and frequent contributor to numerous career-related publications

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 26, 2007 at 6:38 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Reprinted courtesy of TheCareerNews.com

ST. PAUL, MN -- Balancing a day job with a side business is stressful. "You're thinking about two things at once," says Richard Stim. In 2004, Mr. Stim decided to start a side business, an audio-book production business. The business landed a contract almost immediately. "How do you not blow it at both jobs at once?" Mr. Stim says he's able to swing it by doing both jobs from home, which saves valuable commuting time.

One tax benefit to the side business: He can write off the cost of audio equipment, which he enjoys as a long-time music-production enthusiast. If the side business is something you love, there's nothing like it, Mr. Stim says. "It augments my income, and it gives me something fun to do." Moonlighting as an entrepreneur requires commitment and planning. The primary thing that comes to mind is having a consistency of effort.

Make sure you come up with a business plan, outlining who your customers are and how you can market your products. And especially if this is a new career path, seek out others with the necessary training and experience. Because of the drain on your free time, be sure to involve family members in the decision-making process.

Article abridged from CareerJournal.com, and reprinted from TheCareerNews.com. Get the latest breaking News, Tips and Tools for your job search, Free!

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 26, 2007 at 5:52 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

Although there are federal and state laws limiting what prospective employers can ask applicants during an interview, many employers find ways to walk the fine line between appropriate and inappropriate; legal and illegal.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 26, 2007 at 5:28 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

Drop down on your knees and beg the interviewer to give you the job or you'll kill yourself!

NO, please don't follow that bit of nonsense advice, it really won't work!

The follow up you do after a job interview can depend entirely on how you got the interview.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 26, 2007 at 5:18 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

When you are pregnant there are two things going against you. The first thing is morning sickness and the second thing is a lack of energy. It's hard to have a job while you are pregnant but it's also hard for one person to bring in an income alone.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 26, 2007 at 5:17 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

The 'discussion' continues with another on line article at the Globe & Mail about the negative aspects of Facebook and personal branding.

Having been interviewed by both the Toronto Star and National Post recently on the whole subject of building a personal brand on line this is becoming a very hot topic as people start to look for new ways to connect and share information.

Its best to look at the whole subject with two hats on;

1. What personal brand do you want to be known for professionally? How do you want to be seen on line by those who might hire you? Then make a plan to ensure that all you do on line reflects that brand authentically.

2. How do you want to connect and network socially? How much personal information are you prepared to share? Make a separate plan that addresses this and make sure if you are using public access sites like Facebook that you have all the necessary filters in place.

Finally be mindful of the fact that applications and additions you download to your computer like Alexa rankings or to portals like Facebook are being used to gather information about your web habbits and preferences - there is no value in this unless it is going to make money - its business, not personal.

By Paul Copcutt and courtesy of CareerHub.com. The Career Hub blog connects job seekers with experts in career counseling, resume writing, personal branding and recruiting.

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 26, 2007 at 4:55 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Clients often struggle with the notion of following up with networking contacts. Many are concerned that they will be perceived as a nuisance if they follow up with a contact too aggressively. The key to a successful follow up campaign is to be persistent without the other party knowing it.

If you call a networking contact and leave a message, your follow up strategy should be to call every day at different times without leaving additional messages. You might call and leave a message on Monday, then follow up at 10am on Tuesday morning, noon on Wednesday, 3pm on Thursday, and 4:30 on Friday. If you get the contact's voice mail, don't leave additional messages. If you vary the timing of the calls you increase the likelihood of getting the contact in person. If you get a secretary or other type of gatekeeper, be polite and try to develop a rapport with that person. If they ask if you would like to leave a message a good response is "No, that's alright...when would be the best time to reach this person? This strategy allows you to maintain control over the interaction.

If after several attempts you are still unable to connect with your networking contact, consider discussing the situation with the original person who gave you the contact. Perhaps the contact is swamped with a time-sensitive project or out of town on vacation and you need to delay your follow up strategy until they return. While you won't be able to build a relationship with every potential contact, you can improve your chances of connecting with people in a timely fashion by following these suggestions.

Article by Barbara Safani and courtesy of Career Solvers. Barbara Safani is the owner of Career Solvers, has over ten years of experience in career management, recruiting, executive coaching, and organizational development. She is a triple certified resume writer and frequent contributor to numerous career-related publications

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 26, 2007 at 2:25 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Reprinted courtesy of TheCareerNews.com

SPRING LAKE, MI -- Do you know of someone who's unemployed? When a friend or relative is unemployed, we often don't know the best way to support them or know the right thing to say. We try to be encouraging, and supportive, and sometimes end up saying the wrong thing. The following are some tips on how you can help.

Be sensitive. If they found a job, they'd tell you - so don't ask every time you see them. And don't complain about your job (at least you have one). Offer to have them over for dinner, a movie, or other inexpensive, yet fun entertainment. An unemployed person often likes to feel needed. Do they have expertise in an area that could be helpful to you like computer skills, childcare, carpentry or car maintenance skills? Perhaps you barter for services with them.

Try to help them find a job. Ask them what type of work they are looking for or what they want to do. Tell them what you see as their strengths, weaknesses and job possibilities. Check with sources you know who could help them such as people at your place of work, relatives, and other friends. Most importantly, listen and be a good friend.

Article by Bobbie Twa, Career Coach, and reprinted from TheCareerNews.com. Get the latest breaking News, Tips and Tools for your job search, Free!

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 23, 2007 at 4:35 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

One of my clients recently came to my office to work on his pitch. He told me that he had widdled his pitch down to 15 minutes. This led to a discussion about the importance of having a succinct and targeted message. Two minutes is appropriate. 15 minutes is a quarter of an interview and much too long.

Think of your pitch as if it were a PowerPoint presentation. Don't clutter the slides with too much info...just offer the key points. Here's how your PowerPoint slide might look:

• professional identity


• 3 core competencies and measurable proof of these competencies


• quick overview of your professional and educational background


• the reason why you are interested in a particular job opportunity or company

Yes, you can get all the relevant information into the pitch without talking for 15 minutes and in this case, less is more. Here's some more advice on pitches from the Cube Rules blog.

Article by Barbara Safani and courtesy of Career Solvers. Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including resume writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching.

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 23, 2007 at 3:11 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

Women have gone to great lengths to penetrate the tight (and sometimes inscrutable) ranks of predominantly male careers. They've successfully attained careers as police officers, fire fighters, doctors, soldiers, construction workers and politicians, but where does this leave the men?

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 23, 2007 at 2:35 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Provided By: Associated Content, Inc.

For those who would rather run ten miles than sit for eight hours behind a desk, there are still a few career options for you. Desk-less jobs are becoming ever more popular as people realize there are ways to stay active and make a living at the same time.

Posted by CandiceArnold on November 23, 2007 at 2:34 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Yesterday I spent several hours picking up a gazillion leaves, or at least 25 sacks-worth. Standing about 50 ft. tall near our driveway is a sycamore tree that delights in depositing her leaves into their final resting place, our front yard. I was going to let nature take its course, but their unsightly appearance was a constant reminder of how I needed to take care of the mess. Deal with it. Get it over with. Get on with it.

As I rather begrudgingly rounded up and raked up the dusty, dead droppings, I soon spied the green grass, along with a purple mum here, a yellow mum there, and even the remnants of a Blaze rosebud -- what an unexpected surprise!

Trash. Garbage. Dead leaves. Professional messes. Career baggage. Messes in need of our attention. Trash to dump. Garbage to unload. Leaves to rake. Career baggage to let go of.

What, if anything, do you need to sack-up, dump, trash, and/or get rid of in order to get on with it in your career and professional life?

By billiesucher and courtesy of CareerHub.com. The Career Hub blog connects job seekers with experts in career counseling, resume writing, personal branding and recruiting.

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 23, 2007 at 2:11 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Brain teaser or puzzle interview questions are sometimes used when interviewing candidates for high-tech, engineering, and other analytical types of positions. Here's an example of a brain teaser question.

"A line of 100 airline passengers is waiting to board a plane. they each hold a ticket to one of the 100 seats on that flight. (for convenience, let's say that the nth passenger in line has a ticket for the seat number n.)

Unfortunately, the first person in line is crazy, and will ignore the seat number on their ticket, picking a random seat to occupy. all of the other passengers are quite normal, and will go to their proper seat unless it is already occupied. if it is occupied, they will then find a free seat to sit in, at random.

What is the probability that the last (100th) person to board the plane will sit in their proper seat (#100)?"

So what does this have to do with the position the candidate is interviewing for? According to a recent article in Business 2.0, high-tech companies like Google and Microsoft and other well known companies such as Amazon are using puzzle or brain teaser questions to source top talent and determine their problem solving skills. By asking these types of questions the interviewer may be able to better gage the candidates ability to make educated guesses, which is a critical skill for professionals in these lines of work.

According to the 2007 Career Industry Mega Trends report conducted by Career Directors International, eight percent of human resource professionals surveyed said they used puzzle interview questions. If you are interested in learning more about brain teaser questions, take a look at the TechInterview website. And when you figure out the probability of the 100th person sitting in their proper seat, let us know the answer!

Article by Barbara Safani and courtesy of Career Solvers. Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including resume writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching.

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 23, 2007 at 1:23 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Reprinted courtesy of TheCareerNews.com

RENTON, WA -- The biggest salary increases almost always come from changing jobs and companies. These increases can be 20--30% higher than the old job. Some of my clients have seen 40--50% increases, and a few actually doubled their salaries. Lately, I find employers are open to negotiating salaries and are paying more than ever. Here are a few key points to guide you:

Know what your skills are worth. Do your research and learn what employers are paying for your level of experience and skills. Whoever mentions money first loses. To preserve your negotiations power it's critical to never reveal what your salary is (or was). Instead of revealing your salary, offer a statement of fact (citing a salary survey) and give them a salary range.

Negotiate every dollar you want into the salary base now when the employer is most amenable. Promises of future bonuses, raises, stock options, and reviews often have a way of never happening. Additionally, get an employment offer in writing. Promises are quickly forgotten once you start the job. Try it! The critical mistake people make is they never even try to negotiate at all.

Article by Robin Ryan, Career Counselor, and reprinted from TheCareerNews.com. Get the latest breaking News, Tips and Tools for your job search, Free!

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 23, 2007 at 10:32 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Yesterday I blogged on four strategies for reducing stress during a job search. Here are three more recommendations.

Communicate with your Family

If you don't talk about your search with a spouse or significant other, you could be creating additional stress in the relationship. When you shut a partner out of this conversation and carry on as if nothing has changed, that person may worry about the status of your search and your overall financial security. They may constantly seek you out for updates or offer recommendations on how you should conduct your search. This may feel like nagging to the job seeker and can cause tensions to mount. If your partner wants to understand your search strategy, try setting up a weekly meeting to discuss your search plans. Then agree that you will be given the "space" to carry out your plan.

Sometimes a job seeker's search is impeded by domestic responsibilities at home. Family members may ask you to do errands, chauffeur other family members to activities and appointments, or take on significant home improvement projects like painting the house. Keep in mind that if your job search is a part-time activity it will take you twice as long to find a new job.

Avoid Toxic People

We've all met them. They are the ones who say "It's brutal out there. I've been searching for months and no one is hiring." These people do nothing to help you in your search. They often have one-dimensional strategies that result in unproductive, extended searches. Let these people know that you intend to stay positive or share a tip that's working for you. If their negative attitude continues, try, if it's realistic, to take a break from the relationship.

Find a Buddy

While it's wonderful to have the support of family and friends during a job search, having a buddy who is also seeking employment can provide great benefits to both parties involved. Find someone who is in a different profession or someone who is in the same profession, but at a more junior or more senior level, so you won't be competing for the same jobs. Having a buddy allows you to share similar concerns, boost morale, empathize with someone in the same situation, and share advice.

A job search presents a unique set of challenges for many people. But it is also a time when people discover new skills and even new careers. It can be a time to strengthen existing friendships and grow new relationships. By examining your emotions and channeling your energies in a positive direction, you can potentially decrease both your stress level and the amount of time you spend looking for a new job.

Article by Barbara Safani and courtesy of Career Solvers. Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including resume writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching.

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 23, 2007 at 9:26 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Job loss ranks high on the list of most stressful situations. Many report going through a grieving process, similar to the stages people go through after the death of a loved one. Shock, denial, anger, and depression are all common reactions to the loss of a job. These emotions are important and you should acknowledge them. Unfortunately, some people become stuck in one of these stages and this is detrimental to a successful job search campaign. Below are seven strategies you can use to reduce stress and generate acceptance and enthusiasm during your search.

Maintain a Routine

Many job seekers report that creating routine alleviates stress during a job search. Keep the same schedule you had when you were working. Wake up at the same time and leave your house at the same time. Plan to be somewhere at 9 am. Go to the library to do research on a target company, plan a networking meeting, or go to a scheduled event.

Volunteer

When you volunteer you are doing something positive for a particular group or community. It allows you to channel your energy and develop focus. It is also a way to help others in need and it can help put your current situation in perspective. By volunteering, your name becomes known among the organization's members. Chairing a committee or event allows you to showcase your skills in a particular area or gain new skills that can enhance your overall job profile.

Keep a Journal

Keeping a record of your search and your personal thoughts regarding that journey is a good way to identify what's working and what is not working in your search. It can also be a very cathartic process and a private place for you to record your goals and dreams.

Create a Financial Plan

With a little bit of research and planning you may be able to reduce your financial burden after a job loss. Take the time to look at your finances, tally up your assets and set a plan for your future spending. Review any money coming in including unemployment benefits, severance package, and money from pension and retirement funds. Review expenses such as COBRA, rent, and food. Check out unemployment benefits and inquire if you qualify for any government assisted training through the Department of Labor. Job related expenses may be tax deductible, so check with an accountant. Schools and colleges may offer payment schedules and creditors may offer alternative collections options.

Check back tomorrow for some more stress buster ideas

Article by Barbara Safani and courtesy of Career Solvers. Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including resume writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching.

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 22, 2007 at 3:47 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

I recently attended the NRWA conference in Savannah, GA and returned with a wealth of information about leading-edge techniques for resume writing and career coaching. Every time I go to a professional development conference I take away golden nuggets of information that I can incorporate into my practice. But even if I had left the conference without learning one new strategy for resume writing or career coaching I still would have seen enormous value in attending the conference and here's why.

• I had the privelege of sitting with a prolific industry author and learning her tips and tricks to writing successful career relevant books.
• I got to know some of the industry vendors on a more personal level and discover their passion for the products they sell.
• I reconnected with friends, colleagues, and industry leaders that I trust and respect.
• I offered industry insights to newer members of the trade and shared ideas with industry old-timers.

In order to effectively manage your career, you need to proactively tap into your existing network and build new relationships within your industry. Professional conferences allow you to do this in an educational and social environment. Sure, these conferences take time and money, but the return on your investment will be obvious in the weeks and years to come. In a nutshell, I deepened relationships with people who already knew me and I forged relationships with others who didn't know me before the conference. What opportunities for professional growth exist within your industry and what are you doing to take advantage of these opportunities?

Article by Barbara Safani and courtesy of Career Solvers. Barbara Safani is the owner of Career Solvers, has over ten years of experience in career management, recruiting, executive coaching, and organizational development. She is a triple certified resume writer and frequent contributor to numerous career-related publications

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 22, 2007 at 10:19 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

At the Kennedy Recruiting Conference in Orlando, FL earlier this week, I sat in on a Q&A session with four recruiters representing both contingency and retained search firms. All agreed that the most desirable candidates:

• have a polished elevator pitch and an enthusiastic delivery.
• discuss what they have done, (accomplishments) not what they do (tasks).
• use a reverse-chronological format for their resume

They went on to say that the best interviewees:

• are completely honest.
• ask questions throughout the interview to create a dialogue.
• limit their responses to one or two minutes.
• never bring up salary in an interview with a hiring manager.
• let the hiring manager know they are interested in the position.

Article by Barbara Safani and courtesy of Career Solvers. Barbara Safani is the owner of Career Solvers, has over ten years of experience in career management, recruiting, executive coaching, and organizational development. She is a triple certified resume writer and frequent contributor to numerous career-related publications

Posted by Sarah Ennenga on November 21, 2007 at 5:55 PM | Leave a Comment (0)