Frankly I don’t care much for the term “Sucking-Up.” It is a bit crude but it says so much. People understand the meaning and I have avoided other terms that are potentially even more offensive. Forgive me for the title I’ve chosen, but I had to somehow tell it like it is.

We’re probably all aware of people who spend more time trying to placate and impress bosses than actually doing any work. Some folks think all the glad-handing, hollow-praising and manipulations will payoff with promotions. The fact is, they sometimes do. We all know this is true, and I can’t think of anyone who isn’t annoyed by this fact except for the people who have been promoted this way.

If you value self-respect, the respect of your peers, and leaders, then sucking-up or faking your way to a promotion will leave you ashamed and wanting. Even if you earn more money, or have a better title, you will fall short of the goal. It’s really pretty basic when you get right down to it. People need to earn a living, but they need to do it in a way they can be proud of. They need to know that they are respected and even admired to some degree.

It really doesn’t matter what you do for a living, but whatever it is, you should be good at it. It’s tough for people to know they stink at their jobs. I’ve known a few people who knew they were “faking it” at their jobs. They paid a high price for trying to pass themselves off as competent outside of their skills and abilities.

There’s even a term for people whose positions exceed their abilities “The Peter Principle.” The “Peter Principle” is a theory originated by Dr. Laurence J. Peter. It states that successful members of a hierarchical organization are eventually promoted to their highest level of competence, after which, further promotion raises them to a level just beyond their highest level of competence. You could even say they are raised to a “level of incompetence.” Know anyone like this? Sure, we all do.

Living with yourself if you have been “faking-it” is really tough for most people. They constantly worry that they will be exposed and lose what they have, even if that is just imagined esteem from their peers.

So, by its very nature, sucking-up to get what you want when you don’t deserve it, will only leave you with less than you had before. You may be thinking that you know people who have worked their way to the top through sucking-up and maybe they did. Are they happy? Do they have the respect and admiration of anyone? Are they genuine and loved? Does anyone really like them? There’s a good chance you answered these questions with a no.

Children of the very wealthy seem to have a similar dilemma, though due to no fault of their own. They are constantly being evaluated and must prove themselves as “worthy” at every turn especially if they achieve advanced positions of status. I like to assume people in such situations have earned their rewards, though this clearly is not always the case.

Though I haven’t done it in years, I used to enjoy a little gambling at a nearby casino. Quite frankly I never lost much and I never won much either. Over time I sort of lost my taste for it and I’ve seen the destruction it causes in peoples lives.

One day a thought popped into my head; “what if I really won big?” Tens of thousands or even millions of dollars would be all mine for pulling a handle, pushing a button, or getting a good hand at the tables. I always knew that was a possibility, but when I really started to think about it and how it would affect my family and me, it lost its appeal.

The “dream home,” a log home on 20 acres I’ve been wanting for years, would come very easily with a jackpot, as would nice cars and the best things money could buy. On the surface that all sounds terrific, but the thought of living in a home I didn’t earn and driving cars that came through the luck of the draw, seems hollow and very unsatisfying. We all tend to cherish most the things we earn.

This analogy is used to illustrate a simple point. If you unethically or undeservedly manipulate your way to the top, the victory will not be as sweet or fulfilling as the one you have earned. Would you really like to be known as the person who had everything given to them? Not me.

Most all sucking-up is fairly transparent and shallow. Those who engage in it are usually desperate and needy. Bosses who allow it, or even encourage it, are pathetic and will eventually lose favor in the sight of higher bosses. Manipulative tactics that involve sucking-up almost always ruin the morale of those involved even if they are just innocent bystanders.

Sucking-up creates a competition based on the wrong things. It is very tough for moral upstanding people to compete in ways that are unbecoming, and in the end, denigrating. If the leaders of your company rose to their positions through sucking-up you are very likely in a highly dysfunctional company with limited effectiveness and staying power. Some leaders and poorly run companies seem to survive and even thrive in spite of themselves, but mostly they wane over time and fall prey to internal incompetence.

Most people have witnessed occasional sucking-up and maybe you have even sold-out to its trappings a time or two. I think I have inadvertently sucked-up a bit in the distant past, before realizing what I was doing. If you witness this type of manipulative self-destructive behavior among co-worker friends, then you might want to privately tell them your perception of how their behavior appears. Privately and tactfully is the key. That’s what friends do isn’t it?

In summary, sucking-up makes even good people look bad and pathetic. You lose self-respect as well as the respect of your co-workers and bosses. Don’t do it, and like the old drunk driving ad campaign states “Friends don’t let friends suck-up.”

Chapter 1 Summary Points

• Sucking-up and faking your way to promotions will be very unsatisfying for those who do it.

• The things you earn are the most cherished things in life.

• Many people get promoted beyond their level of competence, “The Peter Principle.”

• Sucking-up hurts employee morale and creates competition based on the wrong things.

• “Friends don’t let friends suck-up!”

Bill Hanover is author of “No Sucking-Up! How to Win the Job Promotions You Deserve” and a Lean Manufacturing Consultant. You may learn more about “No Sucking-Up” at www.nosuckingup.com or Bill’s consulting services at www.tpslean.com

Posted by Shawn Augustson, CollegeRecruiter.com on April 26, 2007 at 8:50 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

It seems that looking too young or too old is a concern of workers at each end of the age spectrum. In an attempt to avoid any premature judgments of hiring managers, co-workers, and bosses, career counselors encourage workers to focus on skills as opposed to age. Some possible tips are deleting the graduation date from your resume, dressing differently, or making the effort not to discuss world events that might give away your age.

The more established job seekers could remove parts of their resume more than 15 years old in addition to their graduation dates. A great idea is to emphasize any technological skills you have to dismiss the stereotype that older workers can't work with technology; also try not to mention any companies that have been obsolete for many years. Finally, resist the temptation to talk about world and business events that occurred too long ago.

Younger workers face just the opposite problem of mature ones. At work, they should avoid more youth-related subjects such as "cool new clubs". A better conversation may arise from more general topics that can include everyone's opinions. Use correct English and try to avoid "like" and "you know" from your speech (most of us are guilty of that). Before meetings, organize your thoughts, and anticipate questions and develop quality answers for them. Also, list your educational qualifications at the bottom of your resume, while highlighting your work experience.

I hope no one out there is experiencing age discrimination, but if you are, I hope these suggestions will help you overcome it.

Posted by William F on April 25, 2007 at 9:58 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Online home business scams continue to make money because people have lost the notion of hard work.

The numbers are staggering, but the world continues to indulge in the mindset of ‘free money’. Can you imagine generating thousands of dollars without effort? The flashy, inconsistent messages of online home business scams grab the attention of innocent victims while their CEOs are happy with profits.

If you are unhappy with your current position, I suggest planning your next move. Recent college graduates are yearning for entrepreneurial activities, but the corporate route is a great beginning. You will learn the basics of your business, skills, and build contacts in your organization. Entrepreneurs tend to have a few years of experience before starting their own business venture.

Very few people wake up with original ideas for their business venture so it takes time to increase contacts, resources, and capital. An online home business venture requires market research, a website, and internet marketing skills. Gen Y and other financial burdened adults are swarming in circles buying new programs to help them earn instant fortunes. Individuals in search of get rich quick schemes should take the same energy to put it towards the development of their own ideas.

E-F-F-O-R-T and planning equals success.

What makes you think you can succeed without effort? Our technologically advanced world is run by people – not machines. Technology is only a tool… if you do not use it, you are the one left behind.

Posted by Tahjia Chapman on April 25, 2007 at 12:17 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Congratulations graduate! The time has come for you to say goodbye to your life as a student and hello to your life as an adult. As an adult, you don’t have teachers to answer to, tests to
study for, or grades to make. Your year isn’t divided into quarters or semesters, and, unless you go back to school, you don’t have to look at a report card ever again.

Welcome to the real world! In the real world, you’ll find that success isn’t measured with an A or a B; success is about learning, then living, your new ABCs.

Real world ABCs: Your code of conduct for life.

Excerpt from the book: 101 Tips for Graduates: A Code of Conduct for Success and Happiness in Your Professional Life, Checkmark Books

Ais for Adult: You’re an adult now for the rest of your life.
As an adult, people expect you to look, act, and dress professionally
and appropriately. It does matter what people
think of you now. Maintaining your individuality is
great—and encouraged. But a certain amount of conformity
and maturity in appearance and behavior is expected.

B is for Better: Be better than you need to be. You are a work
in progress—become a student of life. Be someone for
whom good isn’t good enough. Look for new ways of
doing things, and don’t be afraid of change. Strive to
improve yourself professionally and personally every single
day.

C is for Control: Take control of your life; don’t let life control
you. Decide what you want. Don’t be wishy-washy. Life is
not a dress rehearsal; every decision you make will either
move you toward your goals or push you away from them.
Make good decisions. As comedian Tim Allen once said, “If
you don’t make decisions in life, life will make decisions for
you.”

D is for Dream: Dare to dream. Dare to dream the impossible
dream. If you dream it, you can create it; it depends on
what you’re willing to do. Don’t listen to people who try to
destroy your dreams. Most likely, someone tried to spoil
theirs and probably succeeded. If you don’t think dreams
are possible, ask anyone whose impossible dreams came
true. They’ll tell you dreams really do come true.

E is for Enthusiasm: Enthusiasm matters a great deal.
Enthusiasm is contagious. Infect the people you work
with; create a more pleasurable, meaningful work environment.
If you aren’t enthusiastic about what you’re
doing, consider doing something else. Life is too short to
curb your enthusiasm.

F is for Failure: When you fail in school, you are held back;
when you fail in life, you are set back. Failure is temporary
and is nothing to be embarrassed about. Some of the
greatest victories are a result of the worst defeats. Everyone
faces personal struggles, failures, and moments of truth. Be
a student of your own failure. There’s no shame in failing;
the shame is in not trying.

G is for Give: Be known as a giver, not a taker. Make a difference
in someone’s life; pay a compliment, do something
nice, and volunteer. When you give to simply give, with no
strings attached, you always end up getting more back. Try
it and see for yourself.

H is for Happy: If you can wake up every day and be happy
with yourself, your relationships, and your job, you are living
life at its best. I know it isn’t easy; there’s always something
to gripe about or problems that get in the way.
Abraham Lincoln once said most people are about as
happy as they make their minds up to be. Don’t complain;
forget about your problems. Make your mind up to be
happy.

I is for Invest: Invest in your future now. Just because you’re
making money doesn’t mean you have to spend it all.
Learn from the millions of people who wish they had
invested their money rather than thrown it away. Don’t
spend more than you earn; spend less. Stay out of debt and
invest in yourself.

J is for Joyfulness: Find joy and meaning in everything you
do. Find joy making others joyful; make your day by making
someone else’s day. Call the store clerk, the driver, or
the receptionist by name, and ask about his or her day.
Then watch the response you receive. Reach out to others
and make a personal connection; then feel and see joyfulness
at its best.

K is for Knowledge: You may be done with your formal education,
but some of your best lessons are yet to be learned.
Become a lifelong learner; be a student of life. I heard this
saying years ago: The more you know, the more you know
you don’t know. The older I get, the more I understand it.
Know that you don’t yet know all you need to know. Seek
knowledge and learn something new every chance you get.

L is for Listen: There is a reason we all have two ears and
only one mouth. Use yours proportionately. Listening is
more than hearing. You are responsible for getting what
someone’s telling you, so listen carefully.

M is for Mistake: Make mistakes; make lots of new mistakes.
It’s the best way for you to learn. Don’t be afraid—everyone
makes mistakes. Let your mistakes get you down. Take
some time to grieve over, not gloss over, what you learned
from your mistake. Then get back up, and strive to never
repeat the same mistake.

N is for No: Know how to say no. Say no to overindulgence,
say no to risky behavior, say no to your bad habits, and say
no to the toxic people you meet. Know when and how to
say no and mean it.

O is for Opportunity: Opportunity sometimes knocks very
quietly. If you listen, you will hear when opportunity
knocks at your door. Pay attention to everything you see
and hear. Take risks, seize opportunities, and create your
own good fortune.

P is for Patience: Like Rome, your career won’t be built in a
day. Everyone starts somewhere, and everything takes
time. Although it may be difficult to understand now, you
really will enjoy and appreciate what you have much more
if you have to work for it and toward it. Patience really is
a virtue. Be patient. The best is yet to come.

Q is for Quality: Put a stamp of quality on everything you do.
Seek quality relationships, buy quality clothes, eat quality
food, get a quality job, be a quality person, turn in quality
work, and think quality thoughts. Remember, it’s not
quantity you want; it’s quality. Live a quality life.

R is for Reputation: Your permanent record, for the rest of
your life, begins now. Think about what kind of person
you want to be known as in your personal and professional
life. A gossip? A backbiter? Someone who will step on
others to get where he or she wants to be? Think of your
reputation as your little shadow, because it will follow you
4 101 Tips for Graduates
wherever you go. Take care to cultivate a reputation that
you can live with for the rest of your life.

S is for Success: Success isn’t measured by the title you
have, the money you make, or the value of your possessions.
Success is what you make of your life. If you compare
yourself to others, you will always fall short. Compare
yourself to your goals and desires; you have everything you
need to succeed.

T is for Thankful: Be thankful; appreciate the opportunity to
work, and do your best, regardless of the position. No job
is beneath you. Any job that’s legal is honorable and probably
pays you more in a month than people in many parts
of the world make in a year. Be thankful for your health,
your family, and all the goodness you see every day.

U is for Understanding people: Understand that people matter;
all people. Always remember the people who helped
you. Always try to help others. Treat everyone with respect,
regardless of status or position. As you mature, you will
come to realize that it’s not who you know but who you
are.

V is for Values: Identify your values; know what’s important
to you in life, and never compromise the things you value
most. Take a stand for what you believe. If you stand for
nothing, you’ll fall for everything.

W is for Willing: Be willing to stay late, come in early, skip
going out for lunch, or whatever it takes to get the job
done well and on time. Most important, be willing to start
at the bottom and work your way up; everyone has to start
somewhere.

X is for “X”traordinary: Some things happen for no reason
at all, with no warning and no explanation. You can think
you’ve got the world in the palm of your hand, but when
something unexpected happens, you learn you do not.
Never become so smug that you think you’re infallible.
You are not. Live your life and go for your dreams, but
never take your health, your family, your country, your
job, or anything for granted.

Y is for You: You are enough. Don’t focus on those who have
more than you; help out those who have less. Don’t feel bad
for what you don’t get to do; be glad for what you get. Don’t
live your life regretfully; envision a bright future ahead.

Z is for Zoom: Get ready, get set… zoom! Enjoy the ride of
your life. There’s a wide-open road ahead of you now; follow
the road to your dreams.

BY SUE MOREM

http://www.suemorem.com

Posted by Shawn Augustson, CollegeRecruiter.com on April 23, 2007 at 9:36 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

As small businesses sprout all over the world, this generation has more to offer than ever before.

I read through a few articles from other entry level job seekers here at College Recruiter. I wanted to write an article …well, an anthem for all of us who are curious about our futures. Feel free to add to this if you are experiencing or wanting these kinds of returns in your career or entry level job.

==============================================================

GEN Y ANTHEM OF FREEDOM
This anthem is for the new generation of leaders.

We have talent, heart and dreams to offer the business world.
We have experience, ideas, and discipline to follow through.
We know you want more – we can give more.
We know you are interested in our capabilities.

GEN Y will prove it to you.

Ask us questions about what we can offer.
Ask us about the value we have provided for others.
Add responsibilities to our entry level positions.
Make us tap into our creativity to provide solutions.
We want to feel ‘at home’ with your company if we are given opportunities to grow.

Create grounds for achievement.

Our intentions are to do what other generations did and more.
We want to leave our names behind as innovators; people who gave the world tools to live better lives.
We want our parents to be proud of our accomplishments during our professional careers.
One chance, one moment, one yes, and one success can change our lives forever.

===================================================================

Gen Y has enthusiasm, quality, and purpose for Corporate America. Why is it so hard for employers to loosen their policies to allow Gen Y to grow? Times have changed significantly from the past.

Corporate America, oh, Corporate America.

This is a plea to re-think your current view of Gen Y. Issues such as body modifications should not keep you from choosing the best talent. What you consider unacceptable is your competitions treasure. What you consider inappropriate is their greatest strengths.

Why devalue a candidate’s ideals, values, or personal views?

The corporate world was built on the ideals, values, and personal views of YOUR boss. YOU would not have a job if someone shunned your creativity because of an eye piercing or tattoo.

Why are recent college grads business owners?

Because Corporate America does NOT deserve their abilities.

Apathetic attitudes are stirring moods of change within Gen Y. Can Corporate America afford to lose such a bright generation to self-preservation?

Posted by Tahjia Chapman on April 22, 2007 at 11:09 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

A view of the economy can help you make realistic decisions regarding entry level salary negotiations.

Our economic climate has shifted up and down since 2000. We are stuck in a maze when it comes to finding a stable or high paying entry level position. Designated cities such as New York, Houston, Miami, Los Angeles, Chicago, and others keep our minds boggled in traveling distances to succeed. Recent college graduates should pick up a copy of Wall Street Journal just to keep abreast of the latest business news. Every industry can have an idea of what to expect as they move from student to career professional. In my previous post, Student Money Skills: Break Your Spending Habits Before Graduation, I touched on the aspect of residual income for graduates.

Opportunity vs. True Costs

These are not stingy tips or impossible. Gen Y’s are very, very optimistic about the opportunities available for us in the job market. ‘Opportunities’ do exist, but the focused graduate realizes there are very few opportunities suited for their strengths. The focused graduate will focus on opportunities that provide the best return for their careers, objectives, and monetary needs. We slowly branch out into other methods of income once our foundation is available at our jobs.

Silent Hints of Reality

Seconds later… reality kicks in once more: announcements of 13,000 jobs are lost in one company in a rural area. The economy begins to panic as layoffs happen sporadically. Informed financial decisions can help you stay afloat during slow times. As a new graduate, you have to think about now and the future. Economic literacy will help you find the best locations for entry level employment as well as negotiation your entry level salary to level living expenses. Recruiters understand the needs of their candidates so your whisper of demands may impress them.

Here are three things to consider when you are negotiating your entry level salary:

-Experience
-Living Costs
-Compensation Packages

If you have a lot of experience, employers will consider you for higher salaries. Your salary should cover a minimum of 80% of your projected living expenses. If you ask for compensation packages, remember or calculate the risk of accepting the compensation in place of salary. Will the money be useful in the future or for paying off your debts? An entry level job with benefits may free your time to add those additional incomes to compensate you. So, think in terms of numbers and value… what matters most?

Posted by Tahjia Chapman on April 21, 2007 at 1:46 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Build residual streams of income at a young age… tips for scratching the entrepreneurial spirit of Gen Y.

College students must learn budgeting skills to survive student loans, living costs, and adventures. Most find themselves in heaven when they receive an entry level salary. Some splurge once the letters of commitment are signed. Others find ways to save each dollar for future emergencies, travel, cars, and/or pay their current debts.

Take A Minute To Think

You can do three things when you get your first job: take one minute to decide if you want to spend, save, or invest. A great book to read is Multiple Streams of Income by Robert G. Allen. I read the book a while ago and it gave me wonderful insight on keeping money as well as making it grow. The income potential was $30,000 but I wanted more to travel and save for retirement. In his book, Robert Allen focuses on the issue of valuing the dollar bill. He also outlines the basics of building a strong foundation of income at a young age so it will last into retirement.

What’s your perspective?

Our culture involves buying newer, better, and bigger accessories to make our lives easier. In reality, with an entry level salary will seem like heaven when you have extra income on the side. The media emphasizes on the latest frenzy to make us spend money, but we should know better. How cool is it to be young, fabulous, and broke with a job? You can look around to see that entry level employment opportunities will give you leeway to build a strong financial plan after college.

Avoid Get Rich Quick Schemes

Everyone says you do not have to work to make a good income. STOP believing this. The world would not have as much success if people did not work before us. We would not have entry level employment opportunities if the business founders did not work hard to build their companies. The way you use your money is the way you can build your future.

Extra Income Helps Keep Debts Low

Do not live beyond your means when you get your first entry level salary. Do not live beyond your means if you have multiple streams of income. Make reasonable decisions that help you save for a home, family, travel, and more education opportunities.

Remember, Ramen noodles were a good idea in college but steak is better as long as you can foot the bill. Use your money skills at all times.. then you can invite an employer without fear.

Posted by Tahjia Chapman on April 20, 2007 at 1:20 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Niche job boards are popping up everywhere online. Keep yourself up-to-date with the best or most reliable boards.

Job boards used to have simple outlines of available positions, but it has changed in the last two years. If you want to be seen, you must be on a niche job board for recruiters to view your information. You can take advantage of the newest networking capabilities on the web when you do this. For instance, some job boards are community-oriented. The community
'atmosphere’ generates conversation, insight, and opportunities to network with other members.

Speak with Recruiters

On these boards, you can build your network and find your dream position. Recruiters are receptive in community forums if candidates ask questions. A good example is Vault.com is known for its in-depth information guides for large consulting and finance industries as well as its community. Members can log into their accounts to ask questions for representatives from top firms to answer. This helps ease tension or uncertainty for job candidates.

Search Features In Forums

Entry level positions are everywhere on niche job boards and networks. If you use these boards, be sure to include industry keywords in your entry level resume. Search features in niche job boards help candidates find relevant listings. Recruiters use the search features to find resumes with relevant keywords for their job openings. The importance of candidate’s keyword relevancy increases efficiency in larger organizations that use resume databases.

List of well-known job boards:

•www.collegerecruiter.com
•www.hotjobs.com
•www.careerbuilder.com
•www.monster.com
•www.chronicle.com (Education)
•www.vault.com (Finance/Investment)
•www.journalismjobs.com (Journalism)
•www.marketingprofs.com (Marketing)
•www.topseos.com (Search Engine Optimization)
•www.salesjobs.com (Sales)

Remain Focus

Candidates who register in every niche job board may reduce their ability for successful placement. For instance, what happens when you lose focus in your job search? A glimpse of opportunity can blur you objectives if you are in a tight position. Entry level job seekers should find 3-4 niche job boards related to four different strengths in their experience, education, or career objective. Four or more job boards can spread you in too many directions.

Remember, participation in job board forums can distinguish you from other candidates.

Posted by Tahjia Chapman on April 19, 2007 at 9:59 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Create an arsenal of marketing strategies to get your dream job.

Viral marketing is not for businesses only; recent college graduates and undergrads can take advantage of the latest technologies to enhance their entry level job search. We can tap into sources of our own by the connections we make in our online communities. New Web 2.0 models are showing up as the internet experience optimized user-generated content.

Recent college graduates are diving into social networks to build credibility and place themselves in front of thousands of business owners. Once you join these networks, you can use viral marketing techniques to keep members or prospective employers coming back for more. Students with a few friends in film can record simple introductions for employers to get a sense of who you are. Static pictures are great, but why hide behind the screen for too long? A video allows an employer to see you, hear you, and understand your objectives. Faces, voices, and profiles can place a recruiter in the same ‘space’ as you when they review your profile.

Broadcast Your Topics/Interviews

Speak up. Be heard. Podcasts are incredible references for prospective employers to listen to. You can record interviews, discussion topics, and news reviews to enhance your portfolio. A break in the new media platform distinguishes ‘go-getters’ and ‘traditionalists’. Free software and other low cost methods for podcasts are available at: http://www.podcastingnews.com/topics/Podcasting_Software.html.

Custom Reports

Competitiveness has created a need for custom materials for entry level job candidates. You can break away from the monotony by creating a custom report for your industry. I discussed this in my previous post for creatives in their entry level job search, but I would like to share software applications for completing these steps. You can create a custom report for each industry to download by uploading it on your blog by using a free .PDF converter available at: http://www.pdf995.com/.

Video Advertisements

If you are going to give recruiters something, end it in a great note. Video ads exploded this year and it will continue until something crazy erupts. Interested in providing video? Check out http://www.youtube.com, http://www.broadcaster.com, and other free video sites. Attach the RSS feeds to your blogs or profiles so recruiters can see and hear you.

Free viral marketing techniques will save you time, money, and face if you want to be seen. Recruiters will love you, prospective employers will adore you, and your first interview might be out of the way.

Interested in more ways to use viral and network marketing to your advantage?

Check out these top start-ups of 2007:

http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2007/biz2/0702/gallery.nextnet.biz2/12.html.

Posted by Tahjia Chapman on April 18, 2007 at 12:12 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

I look at my friends in awe of why they want jobs. I know money is important to survive as well as progress, but what else is left? Successful professionals and billionaires will tell you that you must do what you love before you can gain the monetary benefits. Money comes after you figure out your purpose in life. Now, recruiters are more skeptical of who they hire for certain entry level finance positions or any entry level job. In one article, a recruiter stated how inconsistency can harm a candidate’s consideration for company openings.

Take a deep breath and ask yourself these questions:

1. What do you want to do?
2. What is your purpose?
3. What are your strengths?
4. What makes you happy?
5. What do you think of doing when you wake up in the morning?

Some one very close said that you are what you dream. Your dreams are an ideal of what you wish to accomplish in your life. You can distinguish yourself by understanding your abilities and limitations. Work on your weaknesses gradually so you can do anything you want to. Recruiters pay attention to students who have a semi-foundation in self-reflection. Entry level job candidates with solid career objectives usually get the calls for interviews. In interviews, these candidates demonstrate their understanding of what they have been and where they want to go.

Everyone does not have to agree with your decision, but you do need some support. Find a mentor, speak to someone who can help you, find like-minded people who are trying to accomplish the same things. You can not accomplish your dreams by yourself. Remember, an entry level position won’t last forever.

Put your heart into your work and changes will come.

Recruiters who sense passion, commitment, and initiative know who to choose for a position with their company. Once the recruiter says, ‘Welcome to… and we hope you find yourself at home.’ Get comfy and embrace what’s before you. A career is out there. A job is there, too. According to researchers, individuals with careers earn more than those who are accustomed to jobs. People with careers have a trail of accomplishments from their past. Others recognize their value and are willing to pay more to keep them around.

College experiences play a huge part in the way you view life and the corporate world. Make a plan before you move into the business world. Identify needs, wants, and possibilities from achieving each milestone. If you are entering a student internship, learn the basics of a company's functions so you can work your way up. Make yourself an asset.

Posted by Tahjia Chapman on April 17, 2007 at 10:54 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

What happens when you drive an 18-Wheeler?

Everyone has someone who drives trucks in their family. The truck and bus drivers in our families have the best stories about their road tales. If you are like me, you sit around listening to the funniest incidents your family member has seen. Not only is this a career, but an entry level driving position can bring in a good amount of money. People with an affinity for travel, adventure, and a sense of duty will enjoy truck driving careers.

Non-Wall Street Position

Yahoo! named truck driving as a top 10 non-Wall Street position for 6-figure incomes. What else can you expect if people like my uncle are staying on the road for hours at a time? The money earned on the road can go directly into their bank accounts then they move into a different city the next day. Entry level drivers training is the first step to living a life like this.

Great Potential For New Drivers

Successful entry level drivers can start with a $30,000- $44,000 their first year. Location, company size, and experience (an obvious requirement) can determine the rest of their career. If you would like to know more regarding entry level drivers training, visit http://www.sageschools.com/entrylevel.html. This company offers complete programs for training entry level drivers in accordance with the U.S. D.O.T. rule.

Hit The Road

Truck driving companies are all over the nation. The highest paying entry level truck driving jobs are in New York, New Jersey, Florida, Texas, and California. For those of you who love travel, this may be the career for you. You can go anywhere you want once you gain tenure in a company. My uncle’s tenure enables him to negotiate his salary, bonus, and health packages – it is pretty big. Also, why not be paid for staying on the road today? The gas prices rise every other month. Entry level truck drivers are being paid for their mileage instead of losing income from going to work.

Little Drawbacks

You may not be able to stay in the cities you drive to because you are on a schedule. My uncle has driven to beautiful places like Miami, but could not enjoy his surroundings. You have to go, get back, and go to the next destination. Unless you are given a route, the uncertainty can trickle your desire to stay on the road for long. Many truck drivers have lost interest in their jobs because they are away from their families.

Think about what your intentions are before signing up for entry level drivers training. The license could do wonders if you want to make extra money part-time.

Posted by Tahjia Chapman on April 17, 2007 at 1:41 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Yes, there are survivors of entry level positions.

Can you see yourself surviving the demands of your employers to climb the corporate ladder?

A few of my colleagues and I reflected on our first encounters with the entry level position career move.

Their names will remain anonymous, but you can figure out where I am going with this. Sadie has just received an entry level position as a real estate broker trainee in Charlotte, North Carolina. She waited until she received her two year degree in business administration, tackled the courses, and is still considered a ‘trainee’.

I think she has taken a lot on her shoulders in order to live in the Queen City (Charlotte, North Carolina) and work under mentorship in the real estate firm. According to Sadie, she can make a 6-figure income once the real estate market stabilizes. No sweat there, but why is she really in this position?

"You HAVE to work your way up. Entry level positions make you work hard. I actually enjoy the rush of working my way up a ladder. It makes you appreciate where you have been and where you're going in your career." - Sadie M., a real estate broker trainee, Charlotte, N.C. **

Apparently, money is a little to worry about when you are looking for a CAREER. If you did not read my previous post about soon-to-be grads, check it out here:

http://www.collegerecruiter.com/insightblog/archives/005214.php#more.

A steady income has gripped the attention of recent college graduates, but Sadie says she’s in the right place. I can agree with her. She will have an advantage over the rest of her peers when employers review her success as a real estate broker. Once she gave me her testimonial, I shot an questionnaire email to my best friend in New Jersey. He started as an entry level mortgage trainee almost like Sadie’s current position.

This is what he sent me in our email…

"Entry level positions are a foundation in many businesses. When I started, I felt like an ant in the big ol’ ant pile. My paycheck sucked. At one point, I wanted to work at a burger joint. One day upper management took all of the entry level heads to lunch. While at the lunch, upper management said we should consider how far we wanted to go in our career.

They said entry level positions are grooming opportunities to test out employees without risking too much. You know what happened? I started working my butt off to make management look at me. My appraisals were favorable after 2 years in the mortgage loan company. My income is up to me, my dreams are right in front of me, and I am learning more about who I am. Entry level positions are the bread and butter to success. A fast food joint has nothing on the possibilities I recognized in my field." - Justin R., a mortgage loan officer, Newark, N.J. **

There is nothing more I can say about this. In a way, these two shut me up about the challenges of entry level work.

**Use of pseudonyms are used to protect the privacy of these employees and their respective employers.

Posted by Tahjia Chapman on April 16, 2007 at 12:00 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

This may seem as a rant, but it needs to be said.

Please end the massacre of entry level writing job openings in your business.

I know freelance writers are everywhere, but what happened to a growing relationship with your writer? We, writers, know you want to cut operation costs, but it hurts you if the business relationship is distant with your writers. This may be one writer’s plea, but I have heard many others feel stranded because of the freelance boom. There are so many writers who would like to be a part of your team. For instance, I enjoy working on long-term or ongoing projects than one-time fixes.

Freelance writers and company writers understand the importance of long-term relationships:

- We develop a bond with your organization's communication style.
- The writer can develop amazing skills working with your marketing/art team.
- An entry level writer is YOUR writer, an advocate, an asset, and a piece of your company.

A balanced ratio of writers and freelancers can keep your costs low as well as develop a strong voice for your business. Keep an open mind in finding others to add different perspectives to your brand. Entry level writing jobs can help you build loyalty with an aspiring business owner.

These are win-win situations. I have played the intern, freelancer, employee, and consultant. Each step signified a growth in my abilities to perform my duties and add value to my employer's needs. This is a plea to look into the heart of writers around the world. It may be a good idea to outsource to save money, but money has nothing to do with complete loyalty.

Would you prefer an entry level writer who loves your business than one who is indifferent? The indifference can harm the messages you want to give to the public. This is not a stone presentation, but musings of a writer who enjoys building long-term relationships with my employers. I learn about the workings of their organization, gain insight of their vision, become an advocate for their mission, and place my heart in the work I complete.

There are many like me, but you may lose the chance to know them if you end entry level writing job opportunities in your organization.

Posted by Tahjia Chapman on April 15, 2007 at 10:29 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

During the hiring process many companies are looking for that one individual who not only has the most experience with previous employment, but also can make the greatest impression during the interview process. An excellent way to impress during that nerve racking interview is by making yourself company savvy. Take your time to research the company. You can do this by entering a company’s name into Google or just checking out the company’s website. This will not only show the company that you’re interested in the current opening for which you are interviewing but it will also show that you’re willing to go that extra mile. So the next time you have an interview, do some research.

Posted by Priscilla R on April 15, 2007 at 3:03 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

I felt lost when I started my search for an entry level marketing position. I took my resume (it was very, very short) and a copy of my writing samples. Something caught my attention when I realized my resume was not going to get me a job. As a creative, I had to look deeper inside to figure out what I wanted from a ‘job’.

Look Inside

A self-assessment is a must to snagging an entry level job. No matter where or what you are doing – you have to know what you want. As a creative person, I am sure you can wear many, many hats just like I can. You may have stellar artistic, writing, design, or speaking skills no one else may have. You are putting yourself in a whirlwind if you can not pinpoint the direction you want to take.

Jot Down Your Ideas

Take out a sheet of paper and draw three columns. Creative people are fond of ‘I have’ and ‘I need’ lists. Write down everything skill you have that someone will pay you to use. It could be writing, speaking, editing, proofing, drawing, or designing. You may have fascinating typing skills (up to 110 wpm). Guess what? Someone needs your skills. You could snag any entry level clerical position you really want.

Look over your list and write down everything you need to survive. What you consider important is all that matters, but it is best to look at reality. Rent, internet, phone, utilities, and insurance are basics but other things could mean more. Whatever is it … write it down!

What Do You Need?

Take a look at what you have and need. Can you find a job that suits the things on your lists?

Make The Company Want You

Customize your resume to suit the job descriptions you are interested in. Then…. yes, it is time to get the portfolio! My creative entry level job search placed me at the right place, at the right time.

Here are a few ideas to make your resume and portfolio stand out:

-If you write, write a white paper or report on why a company should hire you.
-If you draw, draw your own logo and write an explanation of what it means to you.
-If you are a web designer, re-do a few pages of a company’s website then present it in your portfolio.

Do you get the point? You can make the entry level job search a lot easier once you pinpoint your direction. I think you will find many companies waiting for someone like you to come around. I used some of these techniques myself and it paid off. The time you invest in making yourself marketable is priceless; make it the best of your efforts.

Posted by Tahjia Chapman on April 15, 2007 at 11:46 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

What's all the fuss about search engine marketing? Recent college graduates are missing out on a gold mine. It's crazy, but you can search any name online and find it today. Everyone is online and businesses are adding entry level positions for people who love search engine marketing.

You can not deny the potential waiting for college grads in entry level SEM positions. Search engine marketing firms want to hire fresh candidates with an idea of what SEM used to be to what it is today. The industry's standards change almost instantly, but it provides solid ground for those who understand the basics.

Look at the numbers:

Search engine marketing is a booming industry - $5.75 billion in 2005.

Now, it's 2007 and more brick-and-mortar companies are online. It is essential for survival in today's technologically advanced economy. You can jump into the wave of the future if you want a great entry level position in the SEM industry.

Right now, an average entry level SEM position pays $30,000 or minimum $10 an hour. It is a pretty good break for those of us who love to work on our computers and search engines. You know what the best part is? You can learn SEM through self-taught lessons, industry seminars, and other curriculums designed by the search engines. Entry level jobs should provide the training upfront - it can go either way with SEM.

I love it. Big search engine marketing firms provide ongoing training and pay for their SEMs to attend seminars. I like this idea. In two years, you can earn more money in your entry level position. You may even earn the title of 'specialist' after you conduct successful campaigns with documented results. This industry has an array of opportunity for fast learners who stride into the future. You can get a jumpstart your career by visiting search engine marketing websites. You can find information regarding candidate requirements including certifications, experience, and salary ranges.

This industry has changed the way of business. You can change the direction of your entry level job search by using search engine marketing.

Intro SEM Project for Entry Level Job Seekers:

-Start a blog for a hobby or passion. (e.g. business, music, sports)
-Research the keywords for your industry regarding that passion. (business news, new music)
-Read recent news about changes for a company or companies you are interested in working for. (e.g. Sony, Nike)
-Post two to three entries a week.
-Submit your blog to search engines.
-Connect with other bloggers.

Seems easy, right? Dive into this project if you are not online yet. Be sure to remain open-minded if others begin to comment on your blog. Interaction develops rapport with your readers. If they feel a comment can help you, embrace it. Remember to utilize the bio box of your blogs and articles. If someone loves your work, you may find them linking to your blog to show their readers. Someone will read it and someone could have a job waiting for you in SEM because of your diligence in building a brand through search engine marketing.

Have fun with your first SEM project.

Posted by Tahjia Chapman on April 14, 2007 at 12:48 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

I spoke to a few of my closest friends about their upcoming graduation. Some were upset, some were pessimistic, and some felt like the world was going to end. Do you want to know what the problem is?

... student loans and increased tuition.

Yes, student loans have taken a toll and tuition increased 6.9% this year. I can see why my friends are so jittery about graduation. In their eyes, college grads in entry level jobs will make enough to pay bills. This could be true depending on the jobs they pursue, but I know there's more in the job market.

Everyone knows entry level positions are booming in every industry. I think these seniors have not done their homework. For instance, one of my friends is in Communications. Okay? A communication degree gives her flexibility for employers. If I said this, she may look at me like I am crazy. Her advantage makes me sick! She has 3 years as an intern in computer programming for a large bank (you know what she could do with this?), 2 years of retail sales (sales are the highest paying entry level positions around), and 1 year of internet marketing.

You can weigh the opportunities... communications? sales? programming? internet marketing? The pay is right there in her face. College grads in entry level positions like sales can make all the money they want. Programming is another big shot she can do part-time. Internet marketing has a great amount of potential as well. So, what is the problem with these pessimistic grads?

If you feel like this, please let me know.

Pessimistic attitudes do nothing for your future. I tried to hold my tongue while speaking with my friends, but it hurts to see fear as a reaction to graduation. Some of the best opportunities are available if they put their minds to the task.

Think about it.

•What if you were a recent college graduate with her experience?
•Where would you go?
•What would you do?

I am interested in your feedback.

College Grads: Do you think student loans are a burden?
Undergrads: What measures are you taking to pay your loans now?

Whatever you are doing should be constructive for you. If you receive a good job, make the best of it then look for a part-time position. Ambition, confidence, and drive will keep you ahead of the crowd. I have seen my friends find comfort in pessimistic attitudes, but I hope you’ll see and take advantage of the entry level jobs available.

Posted by Tahjia Chapman on April 13, 2007 at 11:13 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

First, I want to thank Jill for her response to my last blog; it provided me with great information. Her response is a perfect lead in to this blog. I just read how the Better Business Bureau recently issued a warning to all job searchers to watch out for deceptive online job postings and employment arrangements designed to steal money and identities. The BBB has encouraged job hunters to withhold some personal information from their online resumes including social security numbers, birth dates, or college graduation dates.

The BBB says no profession or position is excluded when it comes to online job scams. When posting resumes online and responding to advertised jobs, victims have reported scams with a variety of jobs and career fields such as mystery shoppers, IT assistants, quality control administrators, export/import specialists, bookkeepers, journalists, engineers, construction workers,"government" agents, and security experts.

A common factor to look for in all online job scams is an employer's unwillingness to meet a prospective employee. This means no request for a job interview or the job applicant being uninvited to the place of employment. These scams may hire you without meeting you first and want you to do a practical job for a non-existent company. The President/CEO of the BBB serving southeast Texas said that legitimate businesses want to meet with job candidates in person, talk about their experience and qualifications, see references, and at that point, make a job offer.

Posted by William F on April 12, 2007 at 12:06 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Last week, I had an interview at a place that gives tutoring to students around the area. The nice part was that I would be working close to home and I could make my own hours. The pay isn't bad, but I wish that I had something more stable, more reliable, and full-time.

Now, I'm working three jobs at once, but I'm hoping that once I start tutoring, I will build up a list of students, and then that list of students will get bigger, and so on. Hopefully, once I start, it could lead to full-time and I wouldn't need the other two jobs.

The tutoring is usually only an hour or two at a time, but given the pay an hour, it's not too bad. This is closer to what I want to do with my degree, but not exactly. Who knows, I may like it better than what I think. However, I believe this is giving me experience. At least it's closer to where I want to be than some of my other past jobs.

At first, I saw an ad for it in the newspaper. I thought about it for awhile and faxed my resume to the company. The next day I emailed them (because no phone number was given in the ad) to see if they received it and I was told that they did, but they were looking for primary teachers, something that I wasn't. I responded back with my qualifications and a few days later, I received a call asking to come to an interview.

Perhaps, if I didn't email them I would not have been called for an interview. I figure that I have to do everything I can for a potential job, whether it's in applying for it or actually working the position. I used to feel as if I was "bugging" the companies when I would call with questions/concerns or even to let them know I was still interested, but as long as I didn't call every single day, a few times a day, I realized that I wasn't bothering them. I was working on winning myself a better future.

Posted by Jill E on April 10, 2007 at 10:24 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

In response to William's article about a job and lack of description, my advice would be to maybe call the BBB (Better Business Bureau) and see if the job is real and legitimate. A few years ago a similar incident happened to my family and I, and I remember my mom saying to call them and find out some information. If you're not sure, ask someone you know about where you might be able to go or call to see if the company is legit.

I get emails all the time saying that certain companies are hiring, and there is little information about them or they seem too good to be true. Maybe it's just me, but random emails sent to my inbox regarding jobs, I don't think are legitimate. I would make sure that the job had information about where the company could be reached, the address, etc.

Before sending any personal information, such as a resume, I would suggest calling them and asking information about their company. If a company is hiring, I have always seen them give a description of the job and all the details to go with it. If there are no details, I'd make sure you did a complete search on the job. It could be a scam.

Posted by Jill E on April 10, 2007 at 10:14 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Last week, I received a job offer from a company that proposed "good conditions" and a salary plus bonuses. The e-mail simply said there was a vacancy, but did not say what type of job it was. The company left me an e-mail address to respond to if I was interested. I did some research and it seems legitimate. However, generally speaking, shouldn't a company give you an accurate job description when offering you a job? In other words, tell you what the job title is and what you will be doing. This is what I have heard. I thought this subject would be interesting to write about in case anyone else runs across the same scenario. Any comments would be appreciated.

Posted by William F on April 2, 2007 at 11:18 AM | Leave a Comment (0)