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« May 2009 | Main | July 2009 »

Well, it's about time for the fourth of July, also known as Independence Day. This is when Americans gather with their families and friends to celebrate life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. If you're an employer, why not share this special occasion with employees by having a fourth of July office party. It could serve as a pick me up for all employees, from those with entry level jobs to the more seasoned professionals. They can help with the food, games, and even decorations.

Speaking of the decorations for a fourth of July office party, one expert offers these suggestions:

Decide on the scope of your decorating - Ex. - patriotic hats and noise blowers

Pick between July 4 decorations that are reusable or throwaways - Ex. - figurines and nylon flags that can be used repeatedly

Settle on an overall theme for your gathering - Ex. - a costume party

Our expert provides some personal recommendations employers may also want to consider for their parties (see link below).

So, employers, if you want to bring your employees together to celebrate our country's independence, then think about having a fourth of July office party. Just make sure it doesn't create any unnecessary fireworks, if you know what I mean.

Knowing how to conduct yourself at any holiday office party is important, especially if you just got an entry level job. For some good tips, read Holiday Office Party Advice.

Happy Fourth of July!

Information provided by M. Krasniak.

Source
http://www.business.com/directory/retail_and_consumer_services/party_supplies/holidays/fourth_of_july/

Most recent college graduates understand that competition for entry level jobs is stiff, especially in a recession. While there are jobs out there, some are being hidden by employers for a couple of different reasons. These reasons should persuade graduates to be more proactive in their job searches if they aren't already.

According to one career consultant, employers are hesitant to make entry level job opportunities known because

1) they don't have enough time to view a pile of resumes and
2) they don't want to risk hiring the wrong candidate for a certain job.

As far as being flooded with resumes, it could be that employers simply want to engage more with graduates beyond their resumes (see A Perspective on Resumes in College Recruiting). The second reason has more to do with who employers trust to help them find the best candidates for the positions they want to fill. Instead of advertising the jobs as they normally would, employers are more comfortable talking to their own network of people who have a better understanding of the type of candidates they need. This makes sense, as employers want to make a good investment in someone for the short-term and the long-term.

So, what can graduates do to position themselves better for entry level job opportunities? Our expert says not to just focus on networking, but also relationship building with former co-workers and other people. This will allow both parties to understand each other, and potentially, become valuable resources to each other, for example, as references (see References Who Can Help You Get an Entry Level Job).

Now you know why some jobs are hard to find, college graduates, but they do exist. Be proactive in your job search, and the employers may just find you.

Information provided by Terese Corey Blanck.

Source
Campus Career Counselor - April 2009

For college graduates with little or no work experience, internships can allow them to develop important skills that employers are looking for in new employees. An internship is like a preview of what they can expect when hired for an entry level job; it's an opportunity to learn from inside a specific industry, and maybe even have a little fun along the way. However, to get entry level jobs after they graduate from college, interns must meet certain expectations of potential employers.

Here are some helpful hints for interns who want to land entry level jobs:

An excellent resume is a must - Your resume should reflect who you are, and explain why you're the ideal candidate for a certain job; make sure it has no mistakes.

Excellent communication skills - It is important to communicate both verbally and in written form effectively because you may interact with many people.

Becoming a team member - Some situations on the job may require you to work in a group. This is a chance to learn from other people and even form a bond with them.

Forming a strategic outlook - Strategy is a key to success. Interns who have a plan of action for achieving personal goals can be an asset for an employer looking to achieve company goals.

Confidence is key - If you believe in yourself to do the job, then a potential employer probably will too. Ability plus positivity will lead to success in the workplace.

College students, make the most of your internships, and prepare for a promising future in the real world.

For a full list of helpful hints for interns to get entry level jobs, see the source below.

Source
http://www.imdiversity.com/Villages/Careers/entry_level/inroads_internship_tips_1007.asp

Some of those wonderful MC Hammer pants that went out in the 80's. Or it was the jacket that looked like it was made out of someone's drapes.

-- Submitted by K. B. from Burlington, North Carolina, United States through the CollegeRecruiter.com Career Blog Application on Facebook.com.


Article provided by Brand-Yourself.com

Brand-Yourself.com, recognized as one of the Top 100 Most Innovative Collegiate Startups in the United States, has 7 college student internships available for creative, bright and enthusiastic students. Could it be you? Could it be a friend? Space is limited, so take a hard look to see if any of our open positions would be a good fit for you...

7 internship positions:

  1. Blogger/writer. Join our recognized team of bloggers to write and edit eBook content, publish articles and blog posts, develop website copy and interact with industry leaders. Make a name for yourself in front of our thousands of weekly viewers.
  2. Viral/guerrilla marketer. Join our young and dynamic marketing team to develop and execute creative marketing tactics, initiatives and campaigns offline and online.
  3. Social media marketer. Join our talented social media marketing team, participate in conversations related to personal branding and career development on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn/blogs, compile Top 10 lists, grow our company presence online, and learn how to use social media as a business tool.
  4. Graphic designer. Brainstorm, develop and present designs for web layouts, ads, fliers and physical promotional material. Flex your design muscles!
  5. User interface designer. Create user interface mock-ups and designs for the web apps we're developing, research the interfaces of competitors and adhere to usability principles.
  6. B2B marketing. Form new business relationships/partnerships/fusion marketing/co-branding with complimentary companies.
  7. PHP developer. Join our development team to find creative solutions to coding milestones and hone your PHP skills.

Don't spend your summer making coffee and filing papers all day. Believe us - we've done it. To learn, you need the opportunity to work on real life projects that actually matter. For a college student internship with a team that is changing the world of hiring, contact me (Pete Kistler) at pkistler@brand-yourself.com with a blurb about why you're a good fit. I look forward to hearing from you!


Article by, Pete Kistler and courtesy of Brand-Yourself.com for actionable tips to put you in a position of power in the job market

Now that most college students have had their graduations, many of them will be looking for entry level jobs. However, graduates shouldn't forget about one important factor in their job search, and that would be references. These are the people graduates know well who can put in a good word for them when talking to a recruiter or potential employer. Here are some suggestions for recent college graduates on finding references:

Campus activities - For graduates who were involved in extracurricular activities, they can choose references from clubs or organizations.

Church/Community - For graduates who weren't apart of campus activities, they can turn to a pastor, or someone they have worked with in community service as a reference.

College professors - Graduates who were full-time students students can use professors as references, as long as there have been good relationships established. They may also choose anyone who can identify certain skills that a recruiter or potential employer are interested in such as organizational and leadership skills; this could be someone they worked with on a previous activity.

Former co-workers - If graduates were once employed, they can ask someone whom they worked with directly to be a reference.

It's important that recent college graduates choose their references wisely. Make sure these people are trustworthy, and know exactly what benefits they can offer if hired for an entry level job.

Source
http://www.campuscareercenter.com/students/article.asp?news_id=786

As a result of the recession, it's not a surprise to hear that more college graduates are returning home. According to one article, more than 50% of graduates are following this trend. Why? Many graduates simply can't support themselves financially, with increasing debt and cost of living. And don't forget the current economy, where you have a limited number of entry level jobs and an abundance of qualified candidates. These and other reasons are forcing graduates to come back home.

So, what can parents/guardians do to help their graduates during a difficult time financially? It would be easy to say just give them money, but then, they wouldn't learn how to be dependent on themselves. Instead, provide graduates with positive reinforcement during their entry level job search. In other words, parents/guardians should tell their graduates that they will get a job if they're proactive, yet patient in their search. Then, remind them that once they have a job, they need to become financially responsible by taking care of priorities.

I'm sure a lot of college graduates would rather be on their own as opposed to returning home, but sometimes things happen which they have no control over. And sometimes they make mistakes that they have to learn from. So, college graduates if you do go home, don't take advantage of your parents/guardians; show them you are a work in progress, and that you will find an entry level job.

Information provided by Nicholas Aretakis.

Source
http://www.amazines.com/article_detail.cfm/737667?articleid=737667

No one in particular made me want to go into publishing. If anything, I would say my parents did a good job instilling in me a love for reading and writing. I love everything about books, from the writing process to the editing to the final product.

-- Submitted by J. T. from through the CollegeRecruiter.com Career Blog Application on Facebook.com.

Biomedical engineers are responsible for correcting medical and health-related conditions by developing new devices and procedures to treat such conditions. They can work with scientists on the research that determines which products and systems are best for the problems patients have. For example, biomedical engineers can design special computers to analyze blood, or create imaging systems used for x-rays. Specialized areas within biomedical engineering include biomaterials, medical imaging, and orthopedic engineering.

Most employers prefer entry level job candidates with a master's or doctorate degree, but there are some jobs for college graduates with bachelor's degrees. According to one source, the average starting salary for a biomedical engineer with less than a year of experience is around $51,000. However, a graduate's level of education is also important when it comes to salary. Another source says that graduates with a master's degree can make about $8,000 more annually than those with a bachelor's degree.

As far as opportunities go, biomedical engineering is expected to be in demand over the next few years. There will be a need to develop the best medical devices and equipment to fulfill the needs of people, especially the elderly population. Specialized areas of the field are expected to grow; this along with a desire to reduce costs should increase demand for workers. More interest in biomedical engineering will produce a competitive field of entry level job candidates.

Sources
http://www.careeroverview.com/biomedical-engineering-careers.html
http://degreedirectory.org/articles/What_is_the_Average_Salary_for_a_Biomedical_Engineer.html

In this recession, many recent college graduates are wondering where the entry level jobs can be found. Believe it or not, there are career fields in demand for the most qualified candidates. Even if graduates have not thought about a career in certain fields, they might find an interest in the opportunities that are available to them.

Here are a few of the industries where college graduates could find entry level jobs in 2009:

Health care and nursing - Expected to grow faster than every other industry over the next eight years; demand will increase due to older workers moving into retirement.

Information Technology and Services - More growth expected in the next year alone; demand will increase in the field as more businesses become dependent on constantly changing technology.

Education - A field that is expected to add many jobs this year. There is always a need to share knowledge with other people, whether their trying to be successful in the classroom or in the workplace. As other career fields grow, so will the demand for teachers to educate those who want to learn about them.

While the recession continues, there are industries where recent college graduates can find entry level jobs. They may not be graduates' first choices for employment, but could allow them to make an immediate impact on the workforce.

For a complete list of industries to watch for in 2009, see the source below.

Information provided by Kristen Bennett.

Source
http://www.job.com/my.job/careerlib/aid=688/

If you've been having trouble with your job search, then perhaps, you are considering a break from it. Maybe you're discouraged because it's taking up a lot of time without producing positive results. Now, any job seeker must understand that patience and perseverance is required in a job search. So, whether you've taken a break from your first entry level job search or finding that next job, it's time to get back in the game. As part of one magazine's series to get people hired, here are some tips to help you bounce back in your job search:

Know what you offer - What skills and qualities do you have that will benefit a potential employer? Concentrate on the value you can add to a company.

Craft your message and stick to it - The article I read suggests creating a position statement that defines who you are and represents your interests.

Build your base of supporters - These are the people who you network with concerning your job search, as well as exchange valuable information with. For example, you may have friends from college who know about some entry level job opportunities in your field.

Lead and get noticed - Take part in reputable organizations which can give your job search a boost by allowing you to promote yourself, add people to your network, and learn new information.

Stay on contacts' radar - Communicate with your network when you have some information that may be helpful. You might not talk to each person all the time, but when you do contact someone, it will be meaningful.

To entry level job seekers and all others looking for positions, your job search requires patience and perseverance. Learn from these tips and believe in yourself, and a job will be yours.

Information provided by Martha Buckner.

Source
Essence - June 2009

College graduates with a degree in business management have the opportunity to become successful leaders of companies looking to move to the next level. These individuals not only manage people, but take the lead on projects and develop strategies to make their companies better. Graduates with a business management degree should obtain many important skills, and be able to handle a variety of responsibilities that may be required to get an entry level job in the field. In addition, this degree could create better job opportunities for candidates who want to advance in the workplace.

Here are some of the skills and responsibilities that are expected of business management graduates who are looking for jobs:

Skills


  • Strong communication and leadership skills

  • Ability to work on multiple projects and exercise effective time management

  • Working with employees of different backgrounds and even cultures

  • Strategic and tactical goal planning

  • Taking control of business operations and ensuring sustainability

Responsibilities


  • Ensuring accounting procedures and protocol are followed according to company standards

  • Working with human resources departments to ensure quality hiring practices

  • Overseeing production and strategizing ways to improve efficiency

  • Encouraging leadership and growth within the organization

  • Using effective decision-making procedures and processes to keep the organization running smoothly


The field of business management is expected to be in demand as more employers want to find the most qualified people to help their companies compete with industry leaders. Hopefully, this will lead to more entry level job opportunities for these graduates.


In case any business management majors are wondering, here are some of the most popular jobs in their field:

Sources
http://www.ulinks.com/businessmanagementdegree-onlinebachelorbusinessdegreeinmanagement.htm
http://www.payscale.com/best-colleges/jobs-for-business-management-majors.asp

Are you a college graduate who is only focused on finding the right entry level job, but coming up short? Maybe you should try a new strategy such as finding the right employer. Why you ask? Well, if you meet an employer who is interested in what you have to offer, the employer could create a position just for you. One writer has a few examples of how this process works.

Offer to help first and get hired later - Determine what value you can bring to an employer that helps to solve problems and even provide new opportunities.

Prove you fit the employer's culture - Do some company research to learn about what is important, and demonstrate how you can reflect the company's image.

Meet and get hired - Ask to meet with employers (who you are interested in) for an opportunity to state your case as the ideal candidate for an entry level job.

So, college graduates, consider looking for the right employer and not just the right entry level job in your job search. You may be surprised at the opportunities you create by employing this new strategy.

Information provided by Kevin Donlin.

Source
http://www.jobseekerweekly.com/newsletter.php?news=1065

College graduates, have you ever wondered how much your worth is in the workplace? You might be surprised to know that you can have some influence on your starting salaries before getting an entry level job. One article I read gives some insight into why some people make a higher salary than others do. Here are some tips to help you negotiate your worth in the workplace:

Research Your Position - Check with your career service office for information. Also, use the Internet to find out the average salary for the position you want.

Determine Your Priorities - Decide what factors are important to you in accepting a certain position such as salary, health benefits, vacation time, etc.

Get Organized - Emphasize any skills and accomplishments to boost your salary negotiation. Talk about any relevant experience you have to do the job, for example, a previous internship.

Rehearse, Rehearse, Rehearse - Practicing your negotiation ahead of time will make you more confident and relaxed during the actual process.

College graduates, don't underestimate yourselves or your worth in your entry level job search.

Information provided by Sara Ayoub.

Source
http://www.lifeaftergraduation.com/content/Articles-and-Press/articles/Underpayed-FEB08.pdf

During a job search, one thing everyone should remember to do is network. This skill is even more important during a recession. With so many people competing for entry level jobs and internships, it's important to use all of your resources to your advantage. Besides, you never know who could have information on job opportunities. Here are some networking tips to help you as college students and graduates in a recession:

Practice your networking "elevator speech" - This is like a brief sales pitch to any networking contacts about the kind of job you're looking for.

Keep it positive - Always believe you can overcome any circumstances during your job search.

Use all the networks at your disposal - Again, use all of your resources to your advantage. Consider social networking sites and other career sites, as well as attending career events to promote yourself as the ideal job candidate.

Remember the net goes both ways - Networking is not just about helping yourself, but also helping other people. By helping others, they will likely remember you the next time you're looking for a job.

I hope these networking tips help you get through the recession, and land you an entry level job or an internship in the near future.

Source
http://www.jobseekerweekly.com/newsletter.php?news=1037


It's no surprise that many young people of today enjoy using social networking websites. They represent a fun and convenient way for them to communicate the most recent events in their lives. However, for college students looking for internships and recent graduates searching for entry level jobs, they should be careful about what they post online. Their network of friends are not the only people watching their profiles closely.

When it comes to college recruiting, employers and recruiters are now using social networking sites to find the best candidates for jobs in their companies. Many college students and graduates may not be aware of this when posting certain photos or messages on their personal profiles, but doing so could be harmful. Imagine two equally qualified candidates competing for an entry level job, but one was disqualified because that person made a bad impression online. While some people may be concerned about using social networking sites to search for entry level job candidates, it's up to the users to present a positive image of themselves before anyone who may view these sites.

The bottom line for you college students and graduates, be careful about what you post online. In today's college recruiting, employers and recruiters are also watching you, not just your friends.

Source
http://career.studentaffairs.duke.edu/undergrad/find_job/consider/nace_socialnetworks.html


Today and in these times? Aha moment. Sexual prejudice ruled my worklife because I have talent with A/R. So, I was almost always hired on with friends. Staying employed was number one with me and developing my skills along with earning a living. I always went for the highest paying job I could find with the most responsibility. I got many raises and better titles but I had to make my own work which is hard to describe to "stubborn" people. Often, my boss had to go and speak with the employee so I could do the assigned work. Since this is America, I will work for pay. Benifits can be bought and retirement accounts can be filled up. I also met alot of tough guys who were with enforcement and real women wouldn't stay with the company. You can retire early, but my ungrateful fans will be angry.

Many of the people who were hired to replace American workers were dishonest and needed to be watched carefully. They did not have modern work- based skills or the personility traits of American workers. They were not socially advanced both the men and women. Because of this you needed to clean up management because you could not get any useful work through. I suppose money grows on trees where these people are from but to make capital you need to work hard.

Ususally, you were told your job is ending and start looking for another. Paradise here I come; both me and my spouse have had it and are going to work for ourselves.

If your work is less than splendid then work hard for change; America is worth it. Care about you and what you have to offer and be excellent because the other person may not know you.

-- Submitted by A. T. from Oakland, California, United States through the CollegeRecruiter.com Career Blog Application on Facebook.com.

3D imaging is about creating an illusion of depth of an image by presenting it in three dimensions. Some people might say it's trick photography. Our eyes usually allow us to see two-dimensional objects, but with 3D imaging, they can see multiple images of the same object. When these images come together as one, they produce the special effect that our eyes wouldn't normally see. This technique may sound familiar to anyone who has seen a movie in 3D while wearing 3D glasses.

A college graduate who wants an entry level job as a 3D imaging software engineer needs to have general knowledge of the field, and perhaps, meet certain requirements:

  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science or related degree
  • Experience in software development
  • Experience with 3D imaging
  • Good written and verbal communication skills
  • Good problem solving skills
  • Experience with web services

So, if you're a college graduate who likes three-dimensional images and computer software, then an entry level job as a 3D imaging software engineer may be something to consider.

Some information provided by Christopher Fox Graham.

Sources
http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-3d-imaging.htm
https://vitalimages.ats.hrsmart.com/cgi-bin/a/highlightjob.cgi?jobid=399