The demands on job seekers, in respect to writing resumes, seem to increase daily. Of course, it's not really that often, but it does seem as if the list of resume dos and don'ts has grown exponentially over the past few years. It hasn't. In fact, much of what was important 20 years ago - yes, I'm old enough to actually remember - is still important today ... with a modern twist. Adding email addresses to headings and using keywords to catch the attention of scanning equipment or software are pretty much all there is that differs.

Including keywords was probably important 20 years ago, too, but went by another name, the way "reputation" morphed into "personal brand." Anyway, what's important for job seekers to know is that adding words to their resumes that pertain to their career fields or mirror those they read in job postings will get them noticed faster.

"Keywords are the jargon or terminology of your industry. By incorporating the language of your profession, you confirm your knowledge of the profession," said Nancy DeCrescenzo, director of career services for Eastern Connecticut State University. "I recommend a few simple strategies for keywording resumes. First, keywords can be easily gleaned from employment postings and job descriptions. Find the skills, experiences and talents defined by the employer in the posting, and incorporate the identical language into your resume. College students can re-familiarize themselves with the jargon/keywords of their field by reviewing textbook glossaries and course syllabi. Lastly, don't assume that the reader knows the definition of the keywords. Often the initial round of application review is conducted by HR generalists who may or may not know the keywords of the department or division looking to hire. Keywording should not be subtle. It must be verbatim," she added.

Marky Stein, author, career coach and president of Women's Career Solutions in Los Gatos, Calif., offered serveral tips to help college students and recent grads understand what they need to do to get their internship or entry level resumes noticed.

"The three best places to find keywords are:

1. In the job description for which you're applying

2. In similar job descriptions on the web or other resources

3. By doing a search at the government based database of the position you're applying for at www.onetcenter.org

In large companies, resumes are scanned and screened for keywords before they are even examined by the human eye; in smaller businesses, scanners are not so commonly used."

Marky's tips for optimizing keywords in a resume are:

"STEP ONE: Craft a "general" resume with as many of the most common industry-wide keywords first. You may use this resume for posting, networking or whenever you are applying for a job that has no job description.

STEP TWO: For every specific job description you have, OPTIMIZE and CUSTOMIZE the exact keyword terminology for THAT PARTICULAR POSITION. I know that some people don't want to take the time to do this step, but it is ESSENTIAL if you want to get interviews that lead to job offers. Here are some examples of how that's accomplished:

a) For example, if your job objective on your 'general' resume reads, "entry level marketing assistant" but the specific job you're applying to says "entry level marketing and communications associate" you must use the latter to be competitive in a keyword based resume submission.

b) Similarly if, in the body of your general resume it says you can do "market research" but a SPECIFIC job calls for "market demographics analysis" you should customize that resume to use the SAME term that the job description uses.

Keyword loading - that is, using the same keyword multiple times is a good idea as long as it is grammatical and does not appear so many times as to be distracting, overly obvious or distort the meaning of the phrase."

Jay Hofmeister, Co-founder of The Resume Bay and JEM Consulting Services, strongly advocates the use of keyword-rich resumes. "Keyword resumes are much more effective than traditional based resumes. In fact when most entry level jobs are being applied by the 3-5 year experience person, who has been out of work a while, the resume needs to match the job description or the resume is not even being read. For example when Cardinal Health ran an ad for a Human Resources position, the response was over a thousand candidates. You need to have the keywords in order to get past the initial screen and be viewed by a live person.

"Students need to do their homework, research, and develop some inside contacts for any company they are applying to. Companies are looking for the perfect candidate. For example a student could put on their resume "I was responsible for research and coordination of a project that included SEC reporting." Now does this mean the student has done SEC reporting? No but SEC reporting is a keyword and their resume should make it to the hiring manager. An entry level candidate can, through proper online research, find out niche software and technology that is being used at the company they are applying to. The key is they must, either in their cover letter or resume, relate what they learned in school or from a internship about the specific technology or software used at the company they wish to work for," concluded Hofmeister.

Steven Viscusi, founder of Bulletproof Your Resume, gave a more detailed explanation of how the screening process in many large corporations works. "Keyword-rich resumes are applicable to when you are listing your resume on a search-engine and/or sending it in to a HR department that uses keyword software to select resumes for individual hiring managers to review.

Specifically, the quantity of resumes received today by corporations is so high that companies don't have the personnel or the time to screen resumes or candidates by eye-balling individual resumes anymore. So a computer selecting keywords does it for them," he explained.

Viscusi went on to say that many students and recent grads overload their resumes with keywords, which could actually work against them. Like all experts in resume writing, Viscusi reminds job seekers that a separate resume has to be constructed for each position and each company. That's why proofreading is so crucial. It's easy to overlook a keyword meant for the administrative assistant job at Company A on the resume for the receptionist job at Company B.

The bottom line is that in addition to the traditional concerns like using verbs, proofreading and including all relevant dates on resumes, job seekers must now also remember to use words that are relevant to the jobs and career fields they are hoping to infiltrate.

Posted by Candice Arnold on August 31, 2009 at 6:03 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

As if the stress of finding a job before graduation isn't enough, college seniors are now learning that if their resumes don't have the "right words," they won't be read by recruitiers or employers at all. The recession has caused the job market to become flooded with qualified applicants from various levels of experience, so to even be considered, every job seeker, but particularly college seniors and recent graduates, have to make sure they get past the resume scanners first.

"It is critical that candidates prep keyword-rich resumes," advised Krista Ulatowski of PR firm, Waggener Edstrom Worldwide. "HR coordinators are scanning resumes so quickly these days that these keywords need to catch their eyes and give them a reason to hang onto that resume for that much longer." Students and recent grads can get more information and help from the Microsoft Office Online Career Center, Ulatowski added.

"One great way to [get the right words on a resume] is to include a 'key competencies' or 'areas of expertise' section with about 7-11 keywords," recommended Amanda Collins, a 13-year resume writing veteran and chief of staff for the Grammar Doctors. "Use phrases that come from the resume and are included in the job description. Things like project management, team leadership, training and mentoring, etc."

"A 'keyword rich resume' really means a resume that maximizes the number of words associated with one's chosen profession," said resume writer and career consultant, Kimberly Schneiderman. "For example, a college grad looking to enter the event planning industry would create a resume that describes their experience and includes words and duties such as:

- Manage Invitations, RSVPs, guest lists, registration
- Source venues, vendors, caterers, entertainment
- Create themes, decorate
- Consult with client
- Work with large budgets / small budgets
- Set up facility, tear down
- Plan travel, lodging, hotel, transportation logistics

"Resumes that include words specifically related to the chosen field get more attention from employers. They know that the candidate understands exactly what goes into the job (even if they have only minor experience). Keywords are also good for those employers and recruiters who use software screening programs to weed out candidates' resumes.

"New college grads need not fear their lack of robust experience, but rather should concentrate on every aspect of their internships, school projects, and extracurricular activities that associate with their chosen field."

Because it's as likely to have a resume scanned by a computer as by a human being, college students looking for internships and recent college graduates looking for entry level jobs now need to make their resumes just a little more focused in order to make it past the initial screening process.

Posted by Candice Arnold on August 31, 2009 at 6:01 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Known as "vacation land", Bates College is located in Lewiston, Maine, which is about 85 miles from Portand, 140 miles from Boston, and 340 miles from New York City. The 109 acre campus is surrounded by mountains, lakes, and rivers; in the winter, students can go skiing, which is less than an hour away from campus. Bates' students represent 46 states and districts, and 65 countries.

There is a highly selective admissions policy at Bates College. Students are not required to submit their SAT scores, but are encouraged to have a personal interview. According to the Dean for Student Transition, Marylyn Scott, students hurt their chance of getting into the school without the interview. Bates offers 32 majors and 8 interdisciplinary programs, in addition to medical studies, pre-business, and pre-law advising. Some of the most popular majors where students look to find entry level jobs include politics, psychology, economics, biology, and English. Bates employs 215 faculty members, with 100% of them tenured, on the tenure track, or holding their doctorates or terminal degrees.

Bates College has 30 sports teams, including women's field hockey. The school also has one of the oldest college football teams and one of the oldest stadiums in the U.S. In addition, Bates offers 35 housing facilities, and has over 100 student clubs and organizations to choose from. For students interested in community service, they should visit the Harward Center; it serves as a service learning component for the school.

So, if you're looking for a school where you can enjoy the outdoors, and get a quality education, then watch a college video tour of Bates College, http://www.youniversitytv.com/bates_college.html, and learn more today.

Posted by William F on August 27, 2009 at 11:45 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Article provided by Brand-Yourself.com

You've made it past phase one, the cover letter and resume submission. Now it's time for the phone interview. More and more employers are questioning potential employees over the phone to cut costs and help weed out candidates. Use this opportunity to shine and earn face-face time with the employer.

Avoid these simple (and common) phone interview blunders:

1. Do not stammer or use excessive slang. Uh, um, and like are horrible fillers in speech. It is better to pause momentarily to collect thoughts than it is to explain that you were the, uh, like, uh head, uh cashier. Practice answering potential questions with a friend or family member to help weed out these unnecessary (and unprofessional) words.
2. Do not reply in all yes's and no's. Answer with some personal experiences that are relevant to the job in question. Yes/no answers do not help sell your personal brand to the interviewer.

3. Do not lose focus. Remember this is an interview, not an exposé. Keep answers pithy and to the point. Go to an area where there will be limited distractions and both people can hear each other clearly.
4. Do not volunteer information. This is hopefully a preliminary interview, so there's no need to commit to a salary requirement at this point. The salary the company is prepared to offer may be higher than what was expected, or, likewise, your requirements may be a bit more than they can afford.
5. Do not just roll out of bed. Since the caller cannot see you, it is tempting to appear disheveled. Getting up early, eating a good breakfast, showering, and dressing (does not have to be business attire) will relieve stress and make you more prepared and alert.
6. Do not be a robot. Show the interviewer that you are excited about the position with specific references to what is fascinating about the company. The energy and excitement will be apparent in your voice. Have an upbeat, positive attitude, and smile. It is surprising how much one can hear the change in a person's voice when he or she smiles.
7. Do not wing it. Prepare ahead of time with some traditional questions and have your resume and the job description handy as well as any additional information about the company. Have a list of your attributes with situational examples that would be considered important for this job. Write down important questions that you have for the interviewer beforehand (focus on learning more about the specifics of the job, money can be discussed in person).
8. Do not have a hurried interview. When you are already running late for a meeting at your current job, or are dashing to pick up Jimmy and Janie from school is not the time to interview. While one would ideally be in a quiet setting with no other pressing engagements when the potential employer phones, sometimes it's just not possible. Politely ask if it would be alright for you to call him or her back later and suggest a time (the sooner, the better).
9. Do not forget to thank the interviewer. After working diligently to answer questions, showing passion for the company and job offered, and standing up and smiling at someone who cannot even see your face, do not blow the interview in the last five minutes. Be certain to leave a positive final impression. Thank the caller and state that you are eagerly looking forward to the opportunity to discuss the position with him or her further face-face.

Relax and don't let the idea of a phone interview overwhelm you. Remember that the employer was once in the same position. It may even help to have a short list handy of things that need to be discussed. Most importantly, stay confident and be prepared. Keep these tips in mind, take a deep breath, and ace the interview.

Bethany Stringer is a graduate of Texas A&M University (class of '08) and has her B.A. in English Literature with minors in History and Psychology. Writing her first story at the age of 5 (with help from Mom), Bethany still enjoys writing and researching about everything from business and history to travel and fiction. Enamored with languages, she plans to teach English in Russia in 2010 as a CELTA certified teacher. She owned her own business working horses when she was 17, and still loves riding her horse Romeo. Always appreciating a challenge, she loves sea kayaking and prefers Rachmaninov to Bach.

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

Posted by Candice Arnold on August 27, 2009 at 9:27 AM | Leave a Comment (1)

Between the cities of Fort Lauderdale and Miami is Miami Shores, Florida, which is home to Barry University. The university is only five miles from the beach, giving students a chance to water ski, swim, and sail all year long. Barry is 123 acres in size and features academic, administrative, research, and residential buildings. Over 5,000 undergraduates attend the university, representing 49 states and 80 countries; about 30% of students come from outside the state of Florida.

The admission process at Barry University requires students to submit their applications, SAT or ACT scores, and transcripts, according to Admissions Counselor, Latrell Armstrong. For students who major in areas such as business and nursing, there may be special admission requirements to fulfill, so, check with Barry for more information. By the way, 90% of full-time undergraduate students receive scholarships or some other financial aid.

Barry University offers more than 60 undergraduate programs and 50 graduate programs. Some of the most popular programs where students hope to find entry level jobs are nursing, education, business, psychology, and communications. Barry also has a sports management diving industry program; it is believed to be the only program like this in the world. In addition, 89% of the university's faculty members have their PhDs or the highest degrees in their fields.

There are over 60 clubs and organizations at Barry University for students to choose from. Some of them include musical and dramatic performing groups, religious and ethnic groups, a scuba club, Habitat for Humanity, and sororities and fraternities. The school also has 12 varsity sports teams, which have championships in women's soccer, men's golf, and volleyball.

Barry University also has a unique tradition known as the rose and candle ceremony, which symbolizes in word and song the deep bond of friendship between seniors and underclassmen. It involves seniors exchanging candles to underclassmen (which represent knowledge and wisdom) and, in turn, receiving red roses (which represent love and friendship).

So, if you're looking for a university that combines quality academics with a personalized approach to education, then check out a college video tour of Barry University, http://www.youniversitytv.com/barry_university.html, and learn more today.

Posted by William F on August 26, 2009 at 11:16 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Article provided by Brand-Yourself.com

These days, we're all a little on edge about the immediate future of our jobs. Lay-offs are happening right and left and we seem to have so little control over it. While this may be true, we do have control over our "lay-off potential." This article will not tell you how to prevent yourself from getting laid-off, as I do not have that kind of power, but it will give you a few tips to keep in mind so that when it comes time to terminate employees, you're the last person they want to let go.

5 ways to reduce your risk:

1.Get work done immediately. When you are given a task to complete, do it right away! Even if your deadline isn't for another two weeks, why wait that long? This shows your boss that you waste no time when you're at work. Of course, you still should practice your time management skills if you're given a great deal of work to do -- not everything can be done at the same time. Put each deadline in its own compartment and tackle the job that is the most important first. Don't sacrifice the quality of your work for the sake of impressing your boss with your speed. Just make sure nothing is overdue.
2.Stay friendly with the powers that be. No need to go to any great lengths to become as thick as thieves with the bosses but don't be a stranger. It's easy to feel intimidated by all the higher-ups especially if a dark cloud seems to be looming over the company. Put on a friendly face when you see them. Greet them when you pass by in the office and stay personable if they approach you. Become someone who they genuinely like as a worker and a person. It can benefit you during the hardships.

3.Check in with your boss frequently. Especially if a lay-off is in sight and that's got you're knees shaking a little bit, make sure you are doing everything you can to help the company prosper. Who better to ask how than your boss? If the economy is affecting a company, chances are the boss will get in touch with all of the employees and let them know what they need to do in order to pull through as a team. Even if you are approached first it can only help you to ask to speak to your boss one-on-one as well. Tell him that you understand there is much to be done as a team of employees but you want some personal feedback. What is it that you can do to benefit the company? Is there anything you have done so far that could be done better? Quicker? Your boss will think more highly of you if you approach him this way, and you'll receive some constructive criticism in the process.
4.Keep in touch with your boss' bosses. Some of these people might not even know who you are. Change that. If you've done some work that you are particularly proud of, copy your boss' boss onto an email correspondence regarding the job that was done. Keep them in the light about the work you do and make them realize that you are a valuable member of their staff.
5.Go above and beyond. This little piece of advice has become such a cliche, but it is tried and true. Do more than what is asked of you. This could also relate to my first point about getting work done earlier than expected. Any notes you have taken or research you have done regarding a task, send it to whoever you answer to. The more information they have to work with the easier their job becomes, and they'll take note of that.

It's a difficult period of time for many employees. That's why personal branding is such a serious subject. It is something that we have control over. Even the smallest of your actions will reflect upon your ability as a potential worker to upper management and in a down economy you don't want to take any risks. So take the precautions. Do what you can to polish your personal brand so you become more valuable in the work world.

Adrienne Becker is a Syracuse University student from Danbury, CT majoring in Writing and Rhetoric with a Leadership Communication minor. She is a big fan of impressionist art, ocean views and classic rock. She hopes to one day have her name in the credits of a hit film whether behind the scenes or in front of the camera.

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

Posted by Candice Arnold on August 26, 2009 at 7:56 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

I already did it - I competed in the NAGA (North American Grappling Association) Battle at the Beach 2009 tournament in Wildwood, New Jersey. I also won 2 gold medals.

-- Submitted by M. Q. from Middletown, Connecticut, United States through the CollegeRecruiter.com Career Blog Application on Facebook.com.

Posted by Facebook Career Blog on August 25, 2009 at 10:18 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Just 25 minutes from Nashville, you will find the fifth largest city in Tennessee, Clarksville. The city is the home of Austin Peay State University. The 160 acre campus has 74 buildings and may be looking to expand its territory. There are around 9,200 undergraduate students with diverse backgrounds.

For admission into Austin Peay State University, you need a 2.85 GPA, and a SAT score of 950, or an ACT score of 20. A financial aid package is available to students and about 85% of them receive financial assistance. Austin Peay offers 67 majors and 91 concentrations to students; the most popular programs include business, education, and nursing. There is also a successful physics program that has more physics majors than any other college in Tennessee. This program is partially measured on the number of internships acquired by students, which could lead to entry level jobs after they graduate from the university. In addition, Austin Peay has 300 full-time faculty members, with 95% of them holding doctorate or terminal degrees.

There are 16 sports teams at Austin Peay including football, baseball, and volleyball; plus, the men's basketball team has the potential to compete for a championship. You will also find many clubs and organizations such as Greek community chapters, honor societies, religious groups, and social/business sororities and fraternities. In addition, Austin Peay has a signature known as "the ball", a sinkhole, which is the site for mud volleyball.

So, if you're looking for a school where you can experience a mild climate in a central location and still receive a quality education, then watch a college video tour of Austin Peay State University, http://www.youniversitytv.com/austin_peay_state.html, and learn more today.

Posted by William F on August 24, 2009 at 12:47 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

I have worked in various fields, and studied social and natural sciences, that gives me the edge over people who haven't had these kinds of experiences.

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

Posted by Facebook Career Blog on August 23, 2009 at 12:32 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Raleigh, NC. I believe NC is a great place to work. It would be a change for me to move from the sunshine state and experience a new environment.

-- Submitted by L. C. from Miami, Florida, United States through the CollegeRecruiter.com Career Blog Application on Facebook.com.

Posted by Facebook Career Blog on August 21, 2009 at 10:05 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Article provided by Brand-Yourself.com

You may think you know all about college job searches, but you still don't have a job so perhaps this could actually help you. If you want to have something impressive and unique to show employers after graduation then you need to get a bit creative. Yes, you! Having a standard job as a cashier, server, etc. is fine, but not a way to stand out from your competitors after graduation.

• Get off the computer! Many local, smaller businesses do not have websites where you can look at job postings online. You're going to have to call or (better still) go visit these places and explain how much you would like to learn about their industry. If they don't have a job, offer to intern. You'll have more opportunity for "hands-on" experience at a smaller business than a large one. Being a secretary will probably not help you much unless that is your career goal.

• Volunteer at smaller, local organizations! Take this opportunity to show that you are a self-starter who just hates not having work. If you volunteer at an organization that is not as well known as say Habitat for Humanity then potential employers are going to be curious. They will want you to tell them about the organization and your involvement.
• Multi-Task! So you've taken the cashier's job at Wal-Mart because you needed money and you're not exactly qualified yet to do much else. You're not going to become qualified, however, if you don't branch out from your temporary job. Work part-time and create your own local internship. Shadow local doctors, go to court and listen to the lawyers, or intern online as a programmer - this is not about school credit or money. You need the experience and potential employers will be impressed with your dedication and initiative. The people you follow (ask permission first, of course) may even be able to help you find a job later.
• Be an entrepreneur! You start building your personal brand with your first job - why not make it something you love? It's not as impossible as it sounds. Figure out what you like to do and make it into a business (you may just find your career). Take pictures of people for $1 or write a short story and sell it for 25 cents a copy. Even if you don't make a lot of money doing this, it will give you an edge when employers have hundreds or thousands of resumes to sort through.
• Voice your opinion! If you read the back of a book, and think that the summary was poorly written then re-write it and send it to the author (or publisher) explaining why you didn't like it, why yours is better, as well as what you did like (no one will listen to you if they think you are attacking them - use tact). If you believe that something you saw on television wasn't explained in enough detail for you to understand it then write the production company and say so. If you point out something that needs improvement and give a plan to fix it, it may just get you a job.

You must take your student job search seriously and be willing to be inventive. Being unique and demonstrating (not just saying) that you are a hard-worker and able to think independently will be an enormous help to you after graduation.

Bethany Stringer is a graduate of Texas A&M University (class of '08) and has her B.A. in English Literature with minors in History and Psychology. She is currently working as a decorative artisan's apprentice, and plans to teach English in Russia in 2010 as a CELTA certified teacher. She owned her own business working horses when she was 17, and still loves riding her horse Romeo. Always appreciating a challenge, she loves sea kayaking and prefers Rachmaninov to Bach.

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

Posted by Candice Arnold on August 21, 2009 at 8:33 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Auburn University is located in Auburn, Alabama, which is 120 miles from Birmingham, 50 miles from Montgomery, and 112 miles from Atlanta. The campus is 1,840 acres in size, equal to 1,700 football fields. While on campus, students will find the Auburn creed; it represents important beliefs at the university such as education and hard work.

Auburn University has around 24,000 students, with 35% coming from outside of Alabama. For admission into this school, students need an ACT score of 24.8 or a SAT score of 1170, and a 3.61 GPA. AU offers over 130 majors; it is most known for the following ones: engineering, business, and architecture. AU's interior design and pharmacy programs are highly ranked in the U.S., which may interest students looking to compete for entry level jobs in those fields. As far as the AU faculty goes, there are 1,100 full-time faculty members, 93% of which have their terminal degrees.

Auburn has more than 300 organizations, which include many fraternities and sororities. The university has also achieved success in athletics, with its nine men's and eleven women's varsity teams consistently ranked nationally. AU is known for its discoveries, too, like a contact lens that delivers medication, bulletproof material, and a bird flu vaccine.

If you attend Auburn, you can take part in the tradition known as Hey Day, where students wear name tags and greet each other.

So, if you're looking to be a part of a large school in the deep south that is rich in sports and academic opportunities, then check out a college video tour of Auburn University, http://www.youniversitytv.com/auburn_university.html, and learn more today.

Posted by William F on August 20, 2009 at 12:16 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Article provided by Brand-Yourself.com

Twitter.com may get a bad rep because of the user's inability to post anything longer than 140 characters, but that's one of the reasons I like it. I have to admit, the simplicity of this particular social networking site confused me. I wondered why anyone would need a means for updating their status, since that is what Twitter essentially gives you -- a way to keep your "followers" updated, when Facebook lets you do the same thing. Then I realized the possibilities such a simple website could give anyone looking to develop their personal brand.

Of course rapid updates about your day are fun, but rapid updates about your career in progress are even better. What I mean is, it's a better use of your time. Social media branding is a fairly new concept and more and more adults are finding that it isn't just a kid's game anymore -- everyone can benefit from using social media sites.

Generation Y and social media

The first thing many people think of when they hear of social media sites such as Facebook or Twitter is networking. Reasons for networking span far and wide on the communication plane, but what covers a small percentage on this plane is the benefit of personal branding. Log in to your account on Facebook. Who is out there? More importantly, how old are the people that are out there? They're young! Generation Y has a very large presence on social media sites and many people within this demographic are networking to connect with friends or meet new friends. Improving one's own personal brand used to be one of the less popular reasons for networking through social media, but not anymore.

Twitter comes to town

There are a lot more people from earlier generations that use Twitter. Even celebrities have their own accounts and update frequently. So, how has the social media world changed with the arrival of Twitter? As I said, Twitter is an update-based tool. Your Facebook account could sit there without you logged on as new pictures are tagged of you and wall-posts build up, but if you do not use Twitter frequently, your old posts will only collect dust. You are required to be more active in the Twitter community as a user. So, you have to keep up your updates! In this respect, it seems tedious to have a Twitter account, but look at it another way - you are unknowingly keeping up your personal brand.

Using Twitter to your branding benefit

Below are a few ways to use Twitter so it helps you boost your personal brand:

-Drive traffic to your blogs or websites. Anything you are a part of on the web can acquire countless new visitors a day if you "tweet" about it. Include the link to your site and a brief explanation about what it's all about or what new information can be found by going there.

-Network with as many people in your field as you can. Users who are in your industry or field of interest can benefit you if you follow them AND participate in their posts. Reply to their tweets. Make thought-provoking posts that will let them know who you're all about. Also, keep yourself informed with their updates. Their company could wind up posting a job opening, and by keeping yourself clued into their world you'll be better prepared if you head in for an interview. Plus, they'll already know something about you.

-Keep a neutral perspective when updating your tweets. I've talked about this before in a previous blog post but I cannot stress enough the importance of staying neutral. Using a racial, sexual or any other slur that puts down a group of people is an obvious no-no, but making remarks about other companies, people, friends or co-workers could also be taken the wrong way, which can definitely hurt your chances of getting hired when you try to connect with the right people.

-Keep others in the know. Tweet often. Let others know what's going on in your life. Though you should be adding updates that will help you get known on a professional level, it's good to tweet about the fun things going on in your life too. If you're at the park with your kids or going on a cruise in the Caribbean, tweet about it. Hiring managers are looking for professionals, but they're also looking for real people to work for them. Personalize your tweets.

Twitter can be fun. You can network for the sake of meeting like-minded people, but they can also turn into professional relationships. It isn't necessary to make social media all about work, but by keeping in mind that using it to develop your personal brand can help you when you are looking for work, Twitter can easily become a fun and professional tool for you to use any day of the week.

Adrienne is a Syracuse University student from Danbury, CT majoring in Writing and Rhetoric with a Leadership Communication minor. She is a big fan of impressionist art, ocean views and classic rock. She hopes to one day have her name in the credits of a hit film whether behind the scenes or in front of the camera.

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

Posted by Candice Arnold on August 20, 2009 at 9:39 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

With so many people looking for jobs, you may be wondering how to compete in such an intense labor market. Well, you can start by not making any mistakes that can hurt your job search. According to one article, some recruiters are seeing the same mistakes being made, which, of course, influence their hiring decisions. Entry level job seekers must avoid mistakes such as the following:

Being too desperate/willing to take anything - While it's tempting to accept the first job available when you're unemployed, it may not serve your best interest, or the company's if you're unhappy with the job.

Poor interviewing and preparation - Don't assume you can just show up for an interview, and get a job. Make sure you do your research on the company ahead of time so that you're prepared for the interview.

Having a weak resume - Having a poorly written resume is unattractive to potential employers. Your resume should be well-structured, clearly define you as an entry level job candidate or otherwise, and be free of all spelling and grammatical errors.

By remembering to avoid these key mistakes, you can leave a more favorable impression on employers, and increase your chance of getting a job.

For more mistakes to watch out for, see the source below.

Information provided by Andrea Coombes.

Source
http://www.jobseekerweekly.com/newsletter.php?news=1090

Posted by William F on August 19, 2009 at 1:32 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Article provided by Brand-Yourself.com

So, remember all of that stuff that we were taught in grade school about working on a team? The whole idea that we, as children and later as adults, we're supposed to look past differences, failings of others, and other general attitude unpleasantries in order to function as a single unit? Apparently, some people never got that memo. We've all had to work with them at some point - the arrogant and seemingly worthless individual who somehow still keeps a job or the resident next-top-model wannabe who thinks that low cut tops compensate for a total lack of creativity and good work ethic? It's unfortunate, but these people must be dealt with and in such a way as to make you look good instead of like the office bickerer. Here are some simple things to remember the next time the office busybody gets in your face about your poor work ethic since you didn't eat lunch at your desk (even though everybody else did).

1. Avoid office cliques. People tend to divide over issues based on group loyalty as much as they do for principles. It is tempting (and maybe unconscious) to side with the group that you feel the most connected with even if they don't have the best solution. Stay focused on the key issues and evaluate options with an open mind.

2. Don't let situations escalate. Getting into a shouting match doesn't impress the boss and will not win you friends or help make a point. If you cannot handle the situation with self-control, walk away and calm down. Later you and your colleague can calmly and rationally address the issue.

3. Ask a neutral observer to mediate. If you find yourself in a verbal dispute in the office, ask a co-worker from a different department to help. The impartial individual will be better able to break the issue into its basic and most important elements.

4. Don't be afraid of head-to-head competition. Avoid lambasting your competition with petty accusations. If you feel that the person chosen for a specific task is not the best choice, suggest that you and he or she each do the task allowing the boss to chose whose project is best. Your willingness to prove your ability instead of simply assuming your superiority will impress the boss.

5. Respect personality differences. Everyone can't have the same attitude - some must be willing to follow and lead. The occasionally overly aggressive self-starter may not realize that his or her enthusiasm and up front way of handling issues seems abrasive to other co-workers. Likewise, the quiet, retiring individual in the office does not understand that his or her shyness appears as snobbery and aloofness to some colleagues. Try to see things as someone else does, and petty slights can be more easily understood.

6. Don't expect others to be mind readers. If you consistently have issues with one particular co-worker, figure out specifically what about his or her attitude or manner of conducting business is irritating. Take the time when both of you are not busy to explain (not lecture) what bothers you. It may be surprising to learn that the person didn't even realize how he or she was being perceived.

Dealing with office "team" conflicts is just an unfortunate part of work life. It sucks, may not be your fault, but keep these tips in mind the next time you want to fly off at a co-worker. Personal control will get you noticed in a positive way by your boss and (most) colleagues.

Bethany Stringer is a graduate of Texas A&M University (class of '08) and has her B.A. in English Literature with minors in History and Psychology. Writing her first story at the age of 5 (with help from Mom), Bethany still enjoys writing and researching about everything from business and history to travel and fiction. Enamored with languages, she plans to teach English in Russia in 2010 as a CELTA certified teacher. She owned her own business working horses when she was 17, and still loves riding her horse Romeo. Always appreciating a challenge, she loves sea kayaking and prefers Rachmaninov to Bach.

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

Posted by Candice Arnold on August 19, 2009 at 6:57 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Article provided by Brand-Yourself.com

Yes, a new shiny MacBook Pro and a Smartphone will make you look like a thriving young professional, but they will not help you get a job. There are less expensive things that are much more valuable that you can utilize in the search for the perfect career. Your career toolkit houses these treasures and this is your opportunity to bypass the hammer and the screwdriver and use the tools you already have to make yourself successful.

So what's in your career toolkit?

Dreams- I speak about the importance of dreams all of the time, as I cannot mention them enough. If there is a career path that you are enthralled with then you must chase that as if there were no other options. Obviously, you must make ends meet, and if that means working a job you do not like in the meantime, then do that, but please do not forget about things that make you excited to get out of bed in the morning. The most successful people in this world love going to work in the morning. Who would not want that?

Passion-This goes along with your dream, but it still must be mentioned. The reason is simple; you cannot fake passion. It is impossible and your productivity will suffer from its lack of existence

You Personal Brand- The employer is looking at what you represent, which just so happens to be your personal brand. This is a new addition to your traditional career toolkit. It is the Spade on the River to complete your Flush. This will be the deciding factor in your battle against the other passionate dreamers out there. Do not let your public image impact your dreams.

Knowledge of your skill set- You are good at certain things and bad at others. It is important to recognize your faults early on. This way you will be able to either work on these issues or hone your strengths so that they can compensate for your weaknesses. The key is to emphasize your strengths in any way you can. If you are a great conversationalist, but your lacking experience in a certain sector, then use your words to win over the interviewer with your great communication skills. Focus on her and your budding relationship, not the exact position you're interviewing for.

Team- Use your resources to accelerate your career. Have your buddy who majored in Finance help you out with discounting cash flows when searching for a job as a financial analyst or have your literature major friend help you manufacture a job-winning cover letter. People generally like to show off their skills, so they will be more than willing to help you out. By using your team, you will be able to increase the breadth of your Skill set and increase your odds of jump-starting the career you know you can succeed at. Tiger Woods has a team and he is the best golfer in the world. His success is not a fluke; don't allow yours to be either.

Go ahead, peruse your Career Toolkit and reach for the tools that will help you become remarkable.

Brendan Wales is a co-founder of StarvingFreelancers,com, a site dedicated to bringing together artists and opportunity. He studied Finance at the University of Georgia and enjoys working with small-businesses. Wales' goal in life is to wake up in the morning and be excited about going to work.

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

Posted by Candice Arnold on August 18, 2009 at 8:06 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

About one hour from the cities of Cleveland and Columbus, you will find Ashland, Ohio. Not only may you find a neighborhood of nice people there, but also Ashland University. The 120 acre campus has a beautiful landscape and features new facilities.

For admission into Ashland University, on average, students must have a 3.4 GPA, an ACT score of 22, and a 1040 SAT score on the critical reading and math section. There are more than 60 undergraduate majors where students will look to find entry level jobs; some majors include entrepreneurial studies, finance, toxicology, and teacher education. Speaking of education, Ashland has one of the largest programs among independent and state institutions in Ohio. For incoming freshmen who interview with the admission office, they will be treated to the famous AU cookie, prepared by Ashland's own award winning dining service. Assistant Director of Admissions, Jay Pappas, says that students will eat well at the school.

Ashland University has 232 full-time faculty members, with 85% having their PhDs or terminal degrees. Ashland is also known for having a number of nationally ranked athletic teams. In addition, there are over 100 student organizations on campus to choose from.

So, if you're looking for a place to build your dreams, then watch a college video tour of Ashland University, http://www.youniversitytv.com/ashland_university.html, and learn more today.

Posted by William F on August 17, 2009 at 1:31 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Article provided by Brand-Yourself.com

Going to college and living with new people is a living and learning experience. It's the first time you're living with people with whom you share the same ambitions, interests, and, of course, fears. While having roommates is an exciting part of your college experience, it's important to maintain a civilized relationship with them, so that the living situation is comfortable for everyone. According to The College Board, "You'll find that sharing space builds character." Your exposure to this lifestyle will help you learn how to deal with people better, as well as help you to become more patient and learn about different people and ways of life.

You want to know who you'll be dealing with on a daily basis. Here are some pointers for dealing with your new roommate(s):

• Communication. Very essential. Confer each other's preferences so that issues are less likely to arise in the future. Perhaps you like to listen to music while doing homework, but your roommate(s) does not. Discuss your daily habits, whether or not you're a morning person, and what time you want to go to bed during the week. You must say what is on your mind, as your roommate(s) doesn't have the ability to read your mind.
• Tidiness. It isn't just your room. You're responsible for maintaining a shared living space. Make sure to gather your laundry, dispose of your trash, make your bed, and keep your books and materials organized. If necessary, write down some rules and boundaries, print a few copies, and post them around the room as a memo for you and your roommate(s).
• Respect. Don't use your roommate's belongings without his/her permission. And unless it's a serious emergency, don't disturb your roommate(s) when he/she is sleeping. Sleep is very important for college students, and can often be a major deprivation for many. When your roommate(s) needs quiet to study, him/her them that respect. Use headphones when listening to music and take your conversations elsewhere.
• Security. This is equally beneficial to both you and your roommate(s). Always lock doors and windows when leaving your dorm. How would you feel if your roommate's laptop got stolen during the minute it took you to run next door and bum a cigarette? Or vice versa? And don't think that just because it's broad daylight that theft on campus won't occur.
• Spontaneity. You may be a city folk and your roommate(s) may be from the boondocks or even from another county. Your willingness to accept new experiences and opportunities will help you to meet new people, discover new hobbies and interests, learn how to manage time well, and even improve your social skills.

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

Posted by Candice Arnold on August 17, 2009 at 8:05 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Obviously job satisfaction because no one can work in a tense or bad working environment and major a part of your job satisfaction comes from the nature of your work.So try to do jobs that suit your nature, like if you love socializing, you should go into public relations instesd of finance. There are numerous examples; job satisfaction matters to every employee.

-- Submitted by A. S. from through the CollegeRecruiter.com Career Blog Application on Facebook.com.

Posted by Facebook Career Blog on August 16, 2009 at 6:12 PM | Leave a Comment (1)

Savannah, Georgia is the home of Armstrong Atlantic State University. The 268 acre campus allows students to participate in water sports, as well as ultimate frisbee, soccer, and football. AASU has an undergraduate enrollment of about 7,000 students from different states and countries.

Admission into Armstrong Atlantic State University requires incoming freshmen to have a 1020 SAT score and a 3.0 GPA, according to the Director of Admissions, Ana Edwards. AASU offers 35 graduate and undergraduate programs; some of the most popular majors are nursing, education, and psychology. There are also pre-professional programs in the arts, sciences, humanities, and more, which could lead students to entry level jobs. In addition, AASU offers more majors in health professions at the undergraduate level than any other college in the state of Georgia.

Armstrong Atlantic State University has over 70 organizations, which include professional, religious, and special interest groups. AASU students can also enjoy live music on campus.

So, if you're looking for a highly active and well-respected university, then check out a college video tour of Armstrong Atlantic State University, http://www.youniversitytv.com/armstrong_atlantic_state_university.html, and learn more today.

Posted by William F on August 14, 2009 at 12:19 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Choosing the right school, the best internship or finding that dream job is never easy, neither is finding out all you need to know in order to make an informed decision. Well, fear not, candidates. Mark Montgomery of Great College Advice has gathered articles from all over the blogosphere to help students and recent grads get the information and guidance they need in one convenient location.

Click here to read articles from contributors like College Surfing Insider, College Admissions Counseling and College Jolt, to name a few.

Posted by Candice Arnold on August 12, 2009 at 1:37 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Located in rural Russellville, Arkansas (near Little Rock), you'll find Arkansas Tech University. Russellville is between the mountains of two forests, one to the north and one to the south. The campus is 560 acres in size and offers students opportunities to explore the great outdoors with its surrounding lakes and mountains; hiking is one activity you might enjoy.

The total graduate and undergraduate enrollment at Arkansas Tech is over 7,500 students; these students represent 38 states and 30 countries. For admission into this university, students need a 2.0 GPA and a 15 on the ACT, which are moderate requirements according to the Assistant Vice President of Admissions, Shauna Donnell.

Arkansas Tech University offers over 90 undergraduate programs and 31 minors. Some of the most popular programs include education, business, pre-medicine, and engineering. If you're interested in emergency administration management, Arkansas Tech is the only school where you can earn a degree in the field, through its accreditation program. Accreditation programs for eligible majors can present internship opportunities to students, which could lead to entry level jobs, according to the Associate Professor of Journalism, Dr. Hanna Norton. By the way, 71% of ATU faculty hold terminal degrees.

Arkansas Tech is known for having successful athletic programs in both basketball and football. If you're not into sports, then consider being in any of over 100 student organizations. In addition, ATU has its own TV production known as TECH TV; there are eight live shows each week, which air on campus and around town.

So, if you're looking for a great overall college experience, then watch a college video tour of Arkansas Tech University, http://www.youniversitytv.com/arkansas_tech_university.html, and learn more today.

Posted by William F on August 12, 2009 at 11:48 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Article provided by Brand-Yourself.com

Facebook! What was once a playground for college kids to connect, complain and discuss the daily buzz is now the worlds largest social network. With over 250 million people now using Facebook, opportunities are abundant for connecting with everyone from long lost high school friends to co-workers and potential employers.

With everyone from your grandfather to your 6 year old sister looking to "friend" you on Facebook, opportunities are also abundant for offending the wrong people, or worse, potentially losing your job.

The brief exchange below is a perfect example of just this.

Fired on Facebook:

First of all complaining about your job on the internet is generally not the greatest idea. Everything you do on the internet is permanent and should be considered public record. Even with privacy settings (which this girl was apparently unaware of), content can easily leak out and end up in the wrong hands, like say, those of your boss.

The reaction from her boss was understandable, but he too should have taken a step back and thought about a more diplomatic way to settle the problem. Waiting for the next day when he could sit down with her in person as well as straying away from dropping F-bombs would probably be smart and much more professional.

This little exchange definitely brings up a lot of important questions, the most important of which probably would be: "What do I do when the fateful day inevitably comes and my boss requests to be my Facebook friend?"

In order to answer that question, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of buddying-up with your current or former boss.

What Are Some of the Pros?

Facebook allows you to have much more personalized networking. This can become a huge asset for your career advancement or job search. By painting a human picture of yourself (your passions, your interests, your intelligence) you can connect on a much deeper level with people who have the power to help you advance.

It also works both ways and you may be able to gain some insight about what makes your boss tick.

Cons?

There may be info on your Facebook site that you would not necessarily want your boss to view, or content that your friends regularly post that doesn't portray you in the most professional light. You may also feel like your boss is using Facebook to incessantly monitor you.

Solution?

First of all, if your boss does try to friend you simply ignoring the request is one option, however, it is clearly a little bit suspicious. Then you have the issue of grandparents, younger siblings, colleagues, acquantiainces, etc which makes the whole scene even more complicated.

In order to protect yourself and cater to these various groups, you can create friend lists. Each of these lists, which can range from "close friends" and "Facebook contacts" all the way to "colleagues" and "family friends", can be assigned very specific privacy settings (see Privacy Settings for Facebook for more info.)

That means you can allow your close friends to see just about everything and keep your colleagues and boss to the basics.

This is a great way to control who sees what, but this doesn't mean you should consider everything you post as secure. Information on the internet has a way of leaking through the cracks and going public so be wary!

When it comes down it it, its really pretty simple. THINK BEFORE YOU POST and always assume that everyone from your grandmother to your little sister could eventually run across it down the line in one form or another.

Evan Watson is an independent writer/cheif evangelist at brand-yourself.com. He is also a self proclaimed adrenaline junky who enjoys kite-boarding, snowboarding, and water sports. Watson is a big family man, and attributes his success and growth almost entirely to being raised in an extremely eclectic, diverse family.

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

Posted by Candice Arnold on August 12, 2009 at 6:36 AM | Leave a Comment (1)

How many of us actually think about building a career? Right now, this may not be the focus of some college students, who are just hoping to find entry level jobs after they graduate. I read an interesting article talking about how Americans aren't as career-oriented as they should be. Basically, the author says that employees are so committed to satisfying their employers' needs at work, that they don't spend enough time making themselves better for the future. However, there are some tips that workers can use, as a guide, to establish strong careers:

Refresh and expand your expertise in your career field - Use resources like the Internet to help you stay informed on the latest information in your field.

Extend and nurture your network of contacts - This allows you to share and receive information that could lead to career opportunities.

Work with individuals and organizations that can help you succeed - Having support from established people and/or groups that can advance your career provides more confidence that you can achieve your career goals.

Pace yourself with appropriate downtime and vacations - This is your time to rest and relax from work. As a result, you'll be refreshed and ready to resume your road to a successful career.

So, while many college students may now be focused on landing entry level jobs, they should also think about building strong careers for the future.

For more tips on building a strong career, see the source below.

Information provided by Peter Weddle.

Source
http://www.jobseekerweekly.com/newsletter.php?news=1084

Posted by William F on August 10, 2009 at 12:59 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Ahold Financial Services offers entry level jobs in many states including Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, New York, and Washington, DC. This company, based in the US as well as in Europe, is composed of a line of grocery stores. Giant, BI-LO, and Shop & Go are some of their supermarkets.

Ahold is proud of their company stores and strives to provide the best in quality and prices while offering local products. Their values include open communication, respect, trust, employee development, and positive engagement in served communities. Goals include continued expertise and growth. Recent graduates can find full-time entry level jobs as staff pharmacists through Ahold Financial Services. Experienced pharmacists may apply for jobs as floater pharmacists or pharmacy managers. Travel is often required of floater pharmacists.

Promotion from within is the norm rather than the exception, making it possible for someone to turn that entry level job into a higher career position. Ahold pharmacists work with quality products and in friendly work places, filling prescriptions issued by physicians and dentists and appropriately dispensing medical supplies and over-the-counter medications. In addition, a staff pharmacist in the Ahold group is expected to enjoy interacting with pharmacy customers in the capacity of advisor, counselor, wellness expert, and in the management of disease. Knowledge of nutrition and selection of vitamins and natural products is integral to these positions.

Benefits include the following:

• Competitve salary and 401K;
• disability and life insurance;
• medical coverage including prescription, vision and dental coverage;
• reimbursement of tuition;
• paid time off;
• continuing education; and
• flexible spending accounts for day care and health care.

Ahold has entry level jobs available for staff pharmacists in Giant Food Stores in Harrisburg, PA; Upper Marlboro, MD; Lancaster, PA; Hagerstown , MD; Huntingdon, PA; Chester, PA; Washington, DC; Culpepper, VA; and Shirley, NY as well as at many other sites. At this time Ahold Financial Services has no internships listed, however, if you are interested in internships with this company, please keep checking back as there may be some listed in the future.

Article by freelance writer Rebecca P

Posted by Candice Arnold on August 10, 2009 at 11:08 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Article provided by Brand-Yourself.com

In a highly competitive job market the professional resume cover letter becomes even more vital as it is the "sales pitch" of your personal brand. It is the initial introduction to the senior partner and (hopefully) future colleagues. In it, one must be honest, direct, and precise. Think of the type of person that would be the most trustworthy and comfortable for you to do business with. It will not be the loud, flashy car salesman that dresses poorly and promises the moon without being able to deliver. Include personality in the writing, but be sure it presents a confident, polished picture of professionalism. If the reader does not like a cover letter, he or she may not even bother to glance at the resume. These are good ideas to bear in mind before you begin.

Steps to write a professional resume cover letter:

• Do not use ploys to garner attention. "Do you know why I should be hired? Because I'm the best . . . ." Does that question sound professional, and leave you anxiously wanting to read on? Probably not. The employer is expecting interesting, not hokey.
• Be informed about the company. Know to whom the letter should be addressed (call and ask if necessary) and double-check that the company name is listed correctly. A fast way to ruffle feathers is to mess up the business's name. If it's a magazine, read it. If it's a marketing company, Google its most recent activities. This will help when deciding what relevant personal experiences to include.
• Relate your experience to the employer's needs. One might wonder how exactly a summer job as a cashier at a local retailer has any correlation to an entry level position as an HR representative for a large company. List a specific example of applicable skills learned while a cashier. Mentioning the time that a non-English speaking individual needed assistance and how you, being bilingual, were able to appease the customer by doing x, y, and z would be one example.
• Show specifically how you can help their business team. Avoid the common mistake of writing a generic style, fill-in-the-blank cover letter. Chances are, it will not even get read. If the ad lists a specific problem that needs to be addressed then be bold and creative and suggest what you would do with problem x to make it disappear.
• Keep it interesting. You must use a professional tone, but that does not mean using stale, passive language. Write active sentences such as: I instructed a group of 15, I wrote 2 2,000 word articles a week, or I lead the production team of 22 to record profits of 23%. Using action verbs gives readers an impression of the writer's self-confidence.
• Don't sound artificial or contrived. Would you walk up to a brand new acquaintance and bombard them with tediously long words? People would leave not only unimpressed, but would perceive you as arrogant. After employers sift through hundreds of resumes, they do not want to read something unnecessarily complicated.
• Stick to the point and be brief. If every little fantastic attribute and experience is discussed, then the employer will not only get tired of reading it, but also not need to learn more about you. Choose to include only the most relevant examples and skills. The idea is to leave the reader wanting to know more about your experience, and how you can help their company.
• Be proactive. End the cover letter with a statement that shows that you will follow up with the company to schedule a convenient appointment for an interview. This shows that you are serious enough about the position to put in extra effort in the hiring process.

Every professional resume cover letter you write is about explaining how your personal brand can help a company grow and improve. First impressions are vitally important, and although not impossible, a negative impression will be difficult to overcome. Use this opportunity to make an outstanding self-presentation that gets you to the next step - the interview.

Bethany Stringer is a graduate of Texas A&M University (class of '08) and has her B.A. in English Literature with minors in History and Psychology. Writing her first story at the age of 5 (with help from Mom), Bethany still enjoys writing and researching about everything from business and history to travel and fiction. Enamored with languages, she plans to teach English in Russia in 2010 as a CELTA certified teacher. She owned her own business working horses when she was 17, and still loves riding her horse Romeo. Always appreciating a challenge, she loves sea kayaking and prefers Rachmaninov to Bach.

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

Posted by Candice Arnold on August 7, 2009 at 10:44 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Tempe, Arizona is the home of Arizona State University. There are four campuses where students can attend: Tempe, West, Polytechnic, and Downtown Phoenix. Each school is known for the following:

Tempe - Major research and learning facilities

West - Courtyards and architecture

Polytechnic - Projected base learning (ex.- flight simulators and golf simulators)

Downtown Phoenix - Public purpose majors

The criteria for admission into Arizona State University is slightly different for in-state and out-of-state students. According to ASU's Dean of Undergraduate Admissions, Martha Byrd, both groups of students are generally in the top 25% of their high school graduating classes, have a 3.0 GPA, and meet certain academic prerequisites. However, there are different requirements concerning SAT and ACT scores. In-state students must have at least a 1040 on the SAT, or a 22 on the ACT; out-of-state students must have at least an 1110 on the SAT, or a 24 on the ACT.

Arizona State University offers around 250 undergraduate degree programs and 350 graduate degree programs to students. Some of the most popular undergraduate programs are marketing, elementary education, and mechanical and aerospace engineering. The school is also said to have various internship opportunities, which might, potentially, lead to entry level jobs for ASU students after graduation.

Faculty members at Arizona State are quite accomplished in their fields, with some having been honored by prestigious groups such as The National Academy of Engineering and The National Endowment for the Humanities. ASU's Associate Professor of History, Matthew Whitaker, is working on three books, including one about Hurricane Katrina. Arizona State's student-athletes are also impressive, ranking in the top 10 of Division 1 athletics for having the highest number of academic all Americans over the past six years.

Students at Arizona State can choose to be a part of the 625 organizations on campus, ranging from sports to politics.

So, if you're interested in a public university known for its academic scholars and highly ranked athletic teams, then watch a college video tour of Arizona State University, http://www.youniversitytv.com/arizona_state_university.html, and learn more today.

Posted by William F on August 6, 2009 at 4:01 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Article provided by Brand-Yourself.com

I recently spoke with Rebecca Thorman, who does marketing, pr and social media for successful start-up alice.com. In this interview we discuss the current job market, the myth that there are no jobs and the advantages and disadvantages of working with a start-up.

What are some of the steps Gen Y should be taking right now to find a job in this economy? How can they make themselves more "hirable"?

I think it's a myth that jobs aren't available right now.

So job seekers should be thinking about jobs that they can take even if they are out of their typical field. A lot of people I know, for instance, want jobs in marketing. But there are a lot of jobs (like even waitressing, for instance) that allow you to practice your marketing skills. Then it's just a matter of selling yourself, your skills and your experience (not the past job titles) in your interview.

Check out this post:

http://modite.com/blog/2009/05/05/who-hires-in-a-recession/

How important a role has social networking--particularly your blog-played in your own career and success?

My blog has been critical for my career and helped me get both my previous job and my current position. Blogging is good to help show that you are a continual learner, willing to test your ideas and receive feedback

Social networking helps you connect with people across the country or increase the value of relationships with those in your back yard

For me, the combination of blogging and networking proved invaluable and continues to show dividends for the time I invest.

What is the most important thing a new blogger should remember or consider when starting a blog?

A lot of advice tells you to not worry about your focus right away, things will change, etc. A lot of other advice tells you to have a blog schedule, post every day, have laser sharp focus, etc.

I don't fall into either camp.

When I started my blog, I had a definite plan and goal, and I recommend doing so especially if you're starting a blog to help with your career

But I think you also have to allow yourself some breathing room to make sure you don't get bored and you're enjoying yourself.

Also, you have to be a good writer. Or be willing to improve. Considering written and verbal communication skills are the most important job skills to have, this should appeal to most people, but not a lot of people are good writers and their blogs fail.

You gave up one job to work with a start-up which is now seeing success. What are the advantages and disadvantages of taking a job w/ a start up rather than a large, established company?

1) Start-ups move quickly and are very adaptable and flexible. The pace is much quicker.

2) Start-ups are nimble enough to try and respond to new ideas, and it's easier to bounce-back from failure

3) Start-up work is more goal-oriented. You're working towards a specific event happening (a launch, specific number of customers, the sale of the company), which makes it extremely satisfying work.vs. a large company where the work is more monotonous and repetitive

4) Start-up culture is more open and accepting of different personalities and work styles

5) Start-ups have a certain passion and energy I haven't experienced anywhere else.

For me, there aren't many disadvantages, but I think depending on your personality you could view the increased hours, the lifestyle, etc. as a disadvantage. For me, that only adds to the allure.

If you're not a risk taker for instance, you wouldn't like working a start-up. That's not bad either. We need people on all ends of the continuum, and people should embrace their own styles and unique skill sets.

As you say in your blog, you basically left a job to "sell toilet paper" How did you encounter the position? How do you determine its worth the risk?

First, I heard about the position through a friend who is a top blogger. She had been letting me know of a lot of opportunities and when I heard about Alice.com, I was in the middle of negotiating another job. I ended up declining their offer and patiently waiting at my old position until Alice contacted me even though I knew nothing about the company. But I just felt it was "the one" - ha.

I actually don't have a huge tolerance for risk. I have been approached to work for a number of start-ups before and declined offers because the idea made me nervous.

But with Alice, the co-founder Mark and Brian have successfully sold three companies previous to Alice, the last one being Jellyfish which sold to Microsoft for $50mil.

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

Posted by Candice Arnold on August 6, 2009 at 10:39 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Located in Amherst, Massachusetts, Amherst College sits on 1,000 acres of land with rolling lawns and striking buildings. Students can enjoy the great outdoors, which affords opportunities for hiking and rock climbing. Amherst is environment friendly, encouraging its students and faculty to recycle on campus.

Amherst College's Dean of Admissions, Thomas Parker, says the school is tough to get into; students must be academically talented and fully committed to getting an education. There are about 1,700 undergraduate students enrolled at Amherst. Over 50% of these students receive financial aid; there is also a start-up grant to assist low income students.

Amherst College has 34 majors and programs including English, biology, economics, and law. Students can even participate in an open curriculum that allows them to choose classes from every degree available. Amherst can help students further their ambitions. For example, the school gave one student a stipend to pursue internships in New York and Missouri. These internships helped to reaffirm his interest in law, and could provide entry level job opportunities in the future.

By the way, 180 of the 194 full-time faculty members at Amherst have their PhDs or terminal degrees.

Amherst has around 140 student organizations, which includes a 70 student orchestra, and a center for community engagement. There is also a free bus system for students.

So, if you're looking for a school that provides a good education and a chance to enjoy the great outdoors, then watch a college video tour of Amherst College, http://www.youniversitytv.com/amherst_college.html, and learn more today.

Posted by William F on August 5, 2009 at 1:01 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

I worked at Wal-mart in A/R in the accounting dept. and two new female assistant managers would wear capri type pants. I tried to be open minded because it was very in, but I really needed back-up some times and I throught that their clothing didn't fit the bill as a professional.

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

Posted by Facebook Career Blog on August 4, 2009 at 7:12 PM | Leave a Comment (0)

Just minutes from the Mississippi River, you can find Alcorn State University. Located in Lorman, Mississippi, this four year public school covers 1,700 acres and has an enrollment of about 3,600 students (3,000 are undergraduates). It promotes a family atmosphere and has a diverse student body, which represents 31 states, the District of Columbia, and 14 countries.

Admission into Alcorn State will depend on your GPA, and possibly, your ACT score. Students with a 3.2 GPA or higher with a core curriculum will automatically be accepted into the school; students who have lower GPAs will need an ACT score of 16 or 18, all according to the Director of Admissions, Emanuel Barnes. Freshmen will be required to take a university life class, where they can learn about Alcorn State's history and the various offices that are available to them.

There are 45 programs and degrees for students at Alcorn State to choose from. Many students hope to find entry level jobs in popular programs such as biology, elementary education, business administration, and sports medicine. The school also has its own nurse managed family clinic. About 59% of Alcorn State's teachers have a PhD or a terminal degree.

If you attend Alcorn State, you will find music and events planned by campus sororities and fraternities during lunch. In addition, each spring, the school has a jazz festival, which brings in jazz musicians from around the world.

So, if you're looking for a school where you can get a quality education and experience a family atmosphere, then check out a college video tour of Alcorn State University, http://www.youniversitytv.com/alcorn_state_university.html, and learn more today.

Posted by William F on August 4, 2009 at 11:13 AM | Leave a Comment (0)

Companies need managers. A degree in business management will open doors to work in any type of company imaginable, with plenty of opportunities for advancement. Even a recent college graduate can find an internship or an entry-level job with the company of his or her choice.

Internships these days, whether paid or unpaid, are more commonly available to both students and recent graduates. With unpaid internships, interns are often rewarded with college credit as well as invaluable on-the-job experience that simply can't be taught in a classroom. Having an internship on your resume is a big plus. Frequently, companies will hire the best interns after they graduate.

Because internships only last a few months, they can also be used to explore different places of business without making a big commitment. If working for a garden hose manufacturer doesn't turn out to be as glamorous as you'd hoped, you can switch to a company that designs rockets for NASA. Regardless of the company you choose, the actual work you will perform will be closer to what your future employees do, rather than what the managers do. This will allow you to better relate to your future employees and make better decisions while managing them. You will also receive management training, and you will shadow - and possibly assist - real-world managers as they make decisions so be sure to take lots of good notes.

An entry-level job in business management will be more focused on your managerial duties. You will probably only be given a few employees to manage. As with an internship, you might end up spending some of your time working alongside them, so you will better understand what they do. However, you will also be expected to put your training and education to good use and make management decisions from time to time.

Even in the current economy, you can always get another entry-level job if the company or field isn't a good fit, but don't do this too often; potential employers will look at your resume and wonder how long it will take for you to decide you don't like their company either. And for someone hoping to land a job in business management, stability is a plus.

Article by a freelance writer

Posted by Candice Arnold on August 3, 2009 at 11:59 AM | Leave a Comment (0)