Jumat, 10 Desember 2010

Job Loss Increases Due To Recession

Currently the economy is as bad as I can remember in my lifetime and that dates back fairly far. People are losing their jobs on a daily basis, and although things may seem bad, there is always hope.
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According to Linda Stern of Newsweek, "In February, 63,000 U.S. jobs evaporated; 17,000 were lost in January. The job market is deteriorating just as a generation of workers is looking to move up a rung."
"People in midcareer are getting jobs now, though they really have to work harder at it," reports Anita Attridge, a career coach with the Five O'Clock Club. "In many cases they are changing careers or industries to do it."
Ms. Stern gives some advice on job hunting. First you should approach it like your life depends on it. Second, she suggests to follow the market where the money is. "Even in a bad job market, some industries and professions are struggling to attract enough talent. You may have to take the skills you learned in a shrinking industry, like utilities, and bring it to a growing one, like human resources. Or you may want to use the current downturn to retrain so you're poised for one of the most popular jobs. What are they? The Labor Department reports that more than three out of every 10 new jobs will be in health care, social assistance (elder care or child care) and public and private educational services. It also is predicting solid demand for workers in fields like communications, information technology, accounting, and leisure and hospitality."
Kate Wendleton of the Five O'Clock club says, "jobseekers should put more time into researching and targeting specific companies and jobs, even if they're not advertising any openings. Put at least 15 hours a week into it if you have a job; 35 or more if you don't. Call everyone you know who might be connected to your target and request informational interviews and call back about every 6 weeks." vacancy



Over 50 and Job Searching - Cultivating Your Upper Hand

No one really knows when youth ends officially. But if you are over 50 and looking for a job, you probably feel that the rules have all changed. These are the times of downsizing, ‘right-sizing’ (whatever that means) and cost-cutting. If you have ever lost a potential job to a much younger, lower-paid candidate, you might have asked yourself if you’ve reached your expiration date.
Yes, age bias still exists – let’s not be in denial about that. But there are all kinds of biases that exist in the workplace and the matter of age is now less of an issue. Today, many companies are realizing the fact that younger employees are more liable to shift from company to company in an effort to strengthen their careers. But older employees are more likely to stick with their present jobs and have more loyalty. Companies (finally!) have begun to realize that stocking their workforces with younger candidates may not be the wisest thing to do with respect to their retention strategies.
Now, this doesn’t mean that you can shimmy right up to that 20-something Human Resources Director and expect them to just give you the job - it all boils down to what a particular company is looking for at any given point in time. If a company values the immediate cost savings that only a younger employee can offer, then you probably don’t stand a chance. But if you can manage to convince them that your knowledge and skills are a lot more cost effective in the long run, then chances are your age won’t be an issue anymore.
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In order to achieve this, you need to take stock of your qualifications and skills. Once you determine what skills are marketable, you’ll probably stand out from all the other candidates.
Tips - Differentiating Yourself From The Masses
• Find organizations that will view your skills and qualifications as appropriate to their business.
• One of the biggest misconceptions about older employees is that they are less technically savvy as their younger counterparts. If you are computer literate, add that to your resume. List all the software packages that you know how to use. If you aren’t proficient with the computer, consider taking classes.
• Networking is extremely important for the older employee in the job market today. Search for former business colleagues, organizations and employees at firms that interest you.
• Always concentrate on your past achievements and not on your age. You can leap over impending hurdles with regard to your age by displaying strong vitality, good work experience and refined work ethics. Make yourself seem like someone who can get the work done and who can bring a lot of profits to the table with your maturity and exceptional qualifications.
The bottom line is that an organization either has to hire talent or develop talent. So, if you are articulate enough about your skills and talents and can show that you are a fast learner, your chances of getting a good job, irrespective of your age, are very high vacancy

11 Commandments For Gen Y Job Seekers

With so much career advice floating around, what actions are absolutely essential for today's young professionals? Here are my 11 commandments to guide college students and recent grads through the maze of 21st century career planning.  1. Cast a wide net. Quick quiz: Which has the best shot of leading to a job? a) a career fair, b) a connection from your best friend's college roommate or d) a quirky help wanted ad on Craigslist? The answer: You never know. It could be any of the above. This means it's crucial to follow every lead.
2. Clean up your Facebook page. Employers absolutely check you out on Facebook (and MySpace and any other social networking site that's popular in your industry). Make sure your profile is free of red flags-such as underage drinking, nudity, drugs or excessive profanity-that would indicate you might not be the most desirable employee.
3. Set up keyword news alerts. Sign up for news alerts (they're free from Google or Yahoo) containing the name of any company where you hope to interview. This means you'll be the very first to know about new products, new management and new business opportunities-invaluable knowledge when you want to stand out as the must-hire job applicant.
4. Get carded. Writing your phone number on a cocktail napkin or ATM receipt is cute at a party, but it sends the wrong message when you're networking professionally. Show that you are prepared to meet people by having business cards at the ready. All you need on the card is your name, a phone number (which can be a cell phone), and an email address. I am thoroughly impressed when I meet a student who has cards. It shows maturity, foresight, and an eagerness to have the appropriate tools for the working world.
5. Be a leader. Recruiters love to hire leaders, so be sure to include any leadership titles that relate to positions (paid or volunteer) on your resume. Great leadership words include: president, founder, director, manager and-yep-leader.
6. Network with your neighbors. Seventy to eighty percent of jobs are found through networking, so get out there and talk to the people you know. Tell everyone you're related to, everyone you see each day and everyone you meet (association members, friends of friends, airplane seatmates) that you are looking for a job and you'd love any advice or ideas they can provide. Most people are happy to offer some suggestions-or, even better, a hot lead.
7. Don't reinvent the resume. If you're new to the world of job hunting, there are many resume templates and examples available for free online. It can be very helpful to see examples before you start creating your own version. Sometimes the very site where you want to post your resume offers tips and templates, so take advantage!
8. Mock interview. You can anticipate the majority of questions you'll be asked on a job interview, so the more experience you have answering those questions succinctly and successfully, and the more feedback you've gotten about your performance, the better you'll do on the Big Day. Never let your real interview be the first time you talk out loud about your experience and what you want in your career. Practice makes perfect.
9. Make friends at Career Services. I guarantee you will benefit from taking advantage of at least one, if not all, of the following services offered by your school's career office: assessment testing, resume critiquing, databases of apprenticeship/job shadow/internship opportunities, career counseling, mock interviewing, career fairs, workshops and networking. If nothing else, visit the website of your school's career center-most have online resources that can be very helpful during your planning and searching.
10. Persist (politely). Sometimes the job goes to the person who is in the right place at the right time. This means you must stay on recruiters' radar screens by regularly reminding them of your interest and your fabulousness. Some ideas: Check in every few weeks with an additional suggestion for what you can contribute to the company, drop a note when you see the company mentioned in a news article (another great reason to set up those keyword news alerts) and check in whenever you have a new accomplishment to share. Warning: Don't make contact more than once a week. I said persist, not pester! 11. Don't curb your enthusiasm. All my research into career success yielded many tips and tactics, but one truth stood out above all: passion matters. An employer or client will often choose to work with the person who is most excited about her work and loves coming in to the office every day. Be that person and let your enthusiasm shine through! vacancy

How to Network Like a Pro

You can learn a lot about networking to find jobs by asking recruiters how they do it to fill jobs.
That's because recruiters, also known as headhunters, have to network every day to locate and place candidates in positions they're hired by employers to fill. And recruiters don't get paid until they succeed.
So you'd better believe that successful headhunters know a thing or two about networking. 
Here are two things, to be exact, you can do to network like a pro and get hired faster ... 
1. Google And Call Past Employees
Recruiting expert David Perry, author of "Guerrilla Marketing For Job Hunters," shares a unique way to research potential employers using Google. It's this: Find and call people who used to work where you want to work now.
"The fastest way to learn the real workings of an organization is to Google past employees and call them up. This is exactly what I do. Before I take an assignment from a company to place an executive there, I want to know if I'm walking into a hornet's nest," says Perry.
Here's how to do it ...
Google the name of your target employer and the word "resume." The search results you get back will include resumes of people who used work there. (You may want to add the word "experience" to "resume" in your search; experiment using Google's Advanced Search options.)
Once you find some resumes, pick up the phone and call. Say: "Hi my name is _________. I'm researching XYZ Corp. and I think you used to work there because I found your resume online. I'm thinking of applying for a job there. May I ask you a few quick questions to see if it's worth my time and effort? I know this is an unusual way to do a job search ..."
Most people will be impressed by your initiative, flattered to be asked for their opinion and willing to help you out.
"You want to learn about three main areas: the company and its culture; the department you would be working in; and the name of the manager you would be reporting to," says Perry.
Finish your conversation with this all-important question: "If I decide to talk with them, may I say that I spoke with you?"
"You ask this for two reasons," advises Perry. "First, if they left on good terms, you can drop that former employee's name when contacting the company to ask for a meeting. Second, that person may phone his old boss and tell him or her to keep an eye out for the smart person who just called -- that would be you."
If you're at all hesitant about this technique, try it on a company you have no intention of applying to. Work out the bugs first, then network your way right into your ideal employer. 
2. Make Recommendations On LinkedIn
Tom Stewart, VP of Executive Search at Genesis10 in Minneapolis, advises job seekers to use LinkedIn.com as a way to get found by recruiters and employers.
"I tell people to think of LinkedIn as a sort of 'Who's Who' for the Internet savvy professional. It's a great way to expand your visibility -- and the more people who can find you, the better," says Stewart.
Key to using LinkedIn effectively is to give and ask for endorsements, also known as recommendations.
"Writing recommendations for those in your network benefits everyone. I have found candidates accidentally by clicking on the endorsements they wrote for other people on LinkedIn. I can count at least 6 passive candidates I placed in new jobs this way," says Stewart. 
Start with your network of first-level connections at LinkedIn. Pick one person you feel strongly about and endorse them. After you write a recommendation, the system prompts the recipient to endorse you, which leads to reciprocity.
Think of your LinkedIn recommendations as free advertisements you can run on other people's profiles. If they are successful and highly visible in their industry, your recommendation -- with your name on it -- will be highly visible, too. Which increases the likelihood that a recruiter who sees your endorsement will click on it, read your profile, and contact you. 


Surviving Job Search Stress

A Job Search Is An Emotional Roller-Coaster Ride
Searching for a job can evoke a range of emotions. If you are searching for a job, then you may often be more open to negative and depressing emotions like anger and shame, instead of positive emotions. These emotions may rise and ebb, only to resurface again later.
Searching for a job is like going on an emotional roller coaster ride - but what you may not know is that there are ways that you can control the twists and turns of your job search. Career consultants say that 90% of job search is an internal process (i.e. managing your emotions). Managing your emotions means that you are able to manipulate your thoughts and emotions in a way that serve you positively.
Tips To Surviving Your Job Search
While it is good to stay away from depressing emotions, it is not a very bright idea to stay away from your emotions altogether. They will invariably become your strengths. Try to look for value in your emotions because doing so will help put the situation in perspective, and you will then be able to think clearly. For instance, the strong emotion of anger can also give you the energy to act in a positive way, just like the emotion of guilt and embarrassment teaches you to reexamine your behavior and act in accordance with your set values and principles.
Often in times of distress, we tend to talk to ourselves. Psychologists term this behavior ‘self talk’ and believe that it is healthy provided you are giving your distressed mind positive messages like ‘I can do it’ or ‘I will remain calm so that I can analyze my situation more optimistically’.
Fear is another emotion that most job seekers face. Fear can often make you feel that the situation is out of control. To get out of this mind-trap, you can make and keep promises to yourself. Set goals that will empower your mind and get you into action mode. For more effective control over fear, start writing a journal and register all your fears and the possible steps that you can take to overcome it. Also write about the barriers that are holding you back from applying those steps.
Another very good way of beating job search stress is to participate in a job search support group. Most regions have at least one, but if your area lacks one then you can form a support group on your own. The Internet also has lots of job search support resources.
The most important thing to remember when facing the stress of looking for a job is to remain positive and active. By not letting your mind become idle, you can stop negative thoughts and fears from taking hold in the first place. vacancy

Fancy Working on a Cruise Ship?

The problem with most folks (and I include myself here) is that they are dreamers when it comes to working overseas. Often these armchair traveler's have expeditions planned for far away places, but they remain secretly hidden in the fantasy of the own minds. How many of us have dreamt of backpacking our way around the world stopping off at the occasional tropical location to do a bit of work in order to bump up the funds before moving on to pastures new? Most of us at some time or another I bet! 
Well folks, if Mohamed won't come to the mountain then the mountain will just have to come to Mohamed. Ever thought about working on a cruise ship? Once you secure a cruise ship job you no longer have to look for work on your travels. You travel with your job and your job travels with you. What better way to see the world! But it gets even better than that. Working on a cruise ship is not just about mopping floors, washing dishes, decks, and passenger's salt ridden hair. In fact there are a whole range of full time career opportunities available on a big cruise ship. employee
The modern day cruise ships are like floating hotels or small townships and there are shops, restaurants, entertainment spots, fitness centers, swimming pools, engine rooms, and one heck of a lot more. Should you find a job that interests you, you can then have fun weighing up all the fringe benefits which go with working on a cruise ship.
For starters, you get free room and board on most, along with free medical care and meals. When the ship docks in ports around the world you'll get what's considered as 'down time' and you'll be able to jump ship and explore the lands along with the paying guests. Sounds fantastic doesn't it! But there's obviously a down side, there always is, and working on a cruise ship is no exception.
You will be expected to work hard and long hours, possibly for days on end without a break depending on the duration of the cruise. You'll most likely need to sign a contract for a minimum 4-6 month duration. If you get fed up or just want out, where you gonna go? You're on a floating island with no escape in sight, so you have to see the job through. You've probably guessed by now that this kind of work is not really suited for married couples and parents. If you're young and fit without a care in the world, then it could be just the career opportunity you've been looking for.
If you like your employers and your employers like you, then they may give you the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in the different departments if you show promising. Most ships are divided into the following 3 areas: Hotel, Deck, and Engine, and the various job opportunities within theses areas is vast.

My daughter now works aboard Sterling Casino Lines in their Show Lounge and next year she hopes to land a job with The Sea Princess sailing from America to Europe. Me, well I missed my boat when I met her mother, but working on a cruise ship is something I definitely wished I'd experienced as a youth. This is why I'm so happy to see our daughter having the time of her lifetime as she moves ranks on the opens seas. She always comes home with great tales about the people, places, and things that she gets to experience with each sail.
She always laughs on her return and says how this lifestyle beats the socks off a boring ole 9 to 5 job in some dreary office all week. Good on her!
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Graduating From College? The Sky is the Limit

Attention college seniors: I am the voice of your not-so-distant future. I was once where you are now, sweating and worrying about my future, forced to answer the never-ending question from family and friends: "What are you going to do when you graduate?"
The Onset of Panic
I can relate. But you do not want sympathy; you want advice. The best advice I can give you is to relax. You do not have to figure out the rest of your life in the next six months. You have a lifetime to sketch out those dreaded career goals. In the meantime, take a job you can enjoy: teach in an under-served school system, try your luck in Hollywood, work your way across the world, or do as I did, and take to the skies -- become a flight attendant.
Peace Corps Volunteer or Flight Attendant?
I joined the "real world" just over a year ago, after four unfocused years of college. The flexibility of my psychology major allowed me to explore my many interests, from Latin-American music to the social constructions of health. I studied abroad for a year, wrote for the college newspaper and conducted HIV education programs. By senior year, I was confused. I did not know what to do following graduation -- which of those diverse paths to pursue. My senior year I took the minimum course load (12 hours in the Fall and an awesome 8 hours in the Spring) in order to devote most of my time and energy to the job search. I spent most of those days in the library, glued to a computer screen, combing through every imaginable online job listing. There were jobs I wanted that I never could have gotten and jobs I could have gotten but never wanted. Graduation day loomed, and I was freaking out.
All was not lost, though. I had two very real possibilities. The Peace Corps was a definite interest. I could experience some far-away place and contribute to the betterment of the world. The other idea emerged from my closet obsession with air travel, which I finally managed to do something about. Along with the Peace Corps, I applied for a flight attendant position. I know…it seems strange to mention being a Peace Corps volunteer and a flight attendant in the same breath. But both captured my overwhelming love of travel. It was not an easy decision, but in the end, I decided to put the Peace Corps on hold and take the job as a flight attendant. It was time to have some fun and fulfill an old dream.
Is It Right For Me?
You would not be reading this article if you weren’t at least mildly interested in an airline career. But how do you know if it is right for you? I have friends who often get frustrated with their 9 to 5 office jobs and toss around the idea of joining me. After we get past the benefits (which are fantastic) and get into the actual work, their interest sometimes waivers. It is a demanding job, and it takes more than a "people person" to solve crises - both large and small - in such tight quarters and with very limited resources. You must possess good self-esteem and the sense not to take everything to heart cranky passengers and crewmembers throw at you.

 
You have to be able to work strange hours, including nights, weekends and holidays. But of course, there are many advantages: you do not have to go to work every weekday from 9 to 5, you typically get more time off than at a typical job, and you very rarely see any kind of a supervisor or boss. Plus, working holidays may mean having a hotel room in Times Square on New Year’s Eve!
Landing A Flight Attendant Job Is Difficult
Landing a job at one of the major airlines is very tricky since the number of applicants far outweighs the number of positions. There is good news though: most airlines are growing and hiring more flight attendants than ever. And a college degree does carry weight. While no carrier I know of requires an applicant to have a degree, many of the flight attendants I know have undergraduate degrees. A few have even pursued advanced degrees while continuing to fly.
Some airlines actually recruit on campus, though many conduct open interview sessions around the country. Consider applying if you’ve harbored that steward/ess dream since your first plane ride, or if the job sounds fun and you do not know what else you’d like to do. If you are headed to grad school but want a break or need to save some money, think about deferring. Airlines do not require minimum commitments; you can fly for a month, a year, or 30 years. If you only want to fly temporarily or decide it is not for you, no problem. You are not locked in. JFK-based JetBlue even designed a limited one-year program with recent grads in mind.
As I mentioned earlier, competition for these jobs is intense, and I recommend checking out AirlineCareer.com (forgive me for sounding like an advertisement). This will give you the best opportunity to get hired. Of course, you could just wing it, but I can almost guarantee you won't get hired without some assistance.
Why It's All Worth It
The benefits that come with an airline job cannot be beat, especially for those of us just starting to make our way in the world. Considering the work involved, the pay is decent. But it is the free travel that lures many into the industry. No matter how long you’ve worked for an airline, it is undeniably cool to be able to hop on a plane and go anywhere on a day off. This past year alone, I spent Thanksgiving in London and New Year’s in Frankfurt. For fun, I vacationed in Thailand. "What are you going to do when you graduate?"

How to Go From “Take this Job and Shove It” to “Take this Job and Love It”!

The sad fact is that most Americans hate their jobs. Its pure drudgery and they’re just in it for the paycheck. It doesn’t have to be this way. You really can have a dream job, one that you really love and that pays you well.
No, I’m not in fairy tale land. For the 10 years I worked for AOL, I can honestly say there were few days I didn’t want to go to work. The challenges of each position and the company’s ups and downs were never easy, but I always believed my contribution meant something and I felt that I was being fairly compensated. When this was no longer the case, I found another way to grow my career. job vacancy indonesia
But, unfortunately, my experience is not common. After even a few years into your career, you might be frustrated by any number of things – work that’s not challenging, people who don’t value your abilities, being paid less than you’re worth, to name a few. You might even fantasize walking into your boss’ office and shouting “Take this job and shove it!”
That might feel momentarily satisfying, but it’s never a lasting strategy to build your career. The more productive thing to do is to “take this job and love it!” No, not the job you currently have that leaves you frustrated. I’m taking about a new job, a different job that is a great match for you, your abilities, and your desires.
But, how do you go from “shove” to “love” in your career? employee
Pounding the pavement searching for a more fulfilling career is one of the most stressful events in life. I read that it’s in the top three, right along with divorce and a death in the family. Having a road map can reduce your anxiety. Here are my six steps to get that dream job while you’re fully conscious:
1. Determine That You Need To Change Jobs
Sometimes, it’s worth trying to work things out at your current job. Often, you need to move on. In either case, the big thing is that you need to understand why you are dissatisfied with your current so that you can take that into account when you are looking for a new one.
2. Identify The Job You Really Want
The goal is to have a job where you are excited about getting up every morning and going to work. Allow yourself to dream what that new job might be and then explore what that job is like through online research and informational interviews with people who actually do that job now.
3. Find The Company That Has The Job You Want
Start looking in easy places, both on and offline. For example, check the want ads in the largest general newspaper in town plus the largest business newspaper in town. Go online and search job websites such as www.monster.com and www.careerbuilding.com. Don’t forget any schools or related associations who also may have job postings. One huge way people find jobs that’s often overlooked is networking. Get out and meet people and let them know you’re seeking a new opportunity. Often you’ll get a recommendation of a company or someone to contact.
4. Convince The Hiring Manager You Are The Person They Are Looking For
Be prepared for the interview. Learn all you can beforehand about the company and their current situation. Of all the questions you may get, the most critical answers are the ones where you tie your abilities and experience to the company’s needs. That’s what makes you truly valuable.
5. Negotiate A Fabulous Salary And Compensation Package
Never talk money and compensation until you’ve clearly discussed your value – what you can do to meet the company’s needs right now. Know what the job is worth ahead of time using websites like www.salary.com. Let the hiring manager put out the first number, but never accept it immediately. Often this is their lowest offer. You will often get more in salary or benefits if you ask, but only if they believe you’re worth it.
6. Start Off Your New Job With A Bang
You’ve worked really hard to get to this point. Don’t wait for your boss or your new co-workers to make you feel comfortable and to give you direction. Reach out to them first. Continue to demonstrate through your results and by creating positive relationships that they made the right choice.

What Do Recruiters Look For In You?

There is not one magic key that can open all the doors to a job search. As job profiles keep changing, so do the job requirements. This doesn’t mean that fundamental qualities such as integrity, self-motivation and trade skills have lost place in the list. Still, the present-day job scene requires a bank manager to possess lot more prior knowledge and qualities than it took some 10-15 years ago. job vacancy indonesia
Your enthusiasm and upbeat personalities are paramount. This is the first core quality that recruiters will take notice of when interviewing you. Think about it from their point of view - job vacancies are announced only when the going gets tough and work pressure mounts up continuously. No one else other than the self-motivated and candidates that are always upbeat in mood make it to the shortlist.
There is another vital quality that recruiters are anxiously looking for in a candidate. Jonathan Holman, a top recruiter and an HR expert says, "Candidates must have the know- how to make money for the enterprise; all other skills are irrelevant if this one is lacking." Obviously he is referring to candidates for CEO postings. This is as good as it can get. If you really look at it, all other jobs contribute to the enterprise in one way or the other. So it is the ability to contribute, in real terms, to the overall growth of the company which matters. employee
Holman ranks both personal and business integrity next only to the ability to contribute. Regardless of what position you are seeking, there are professional matters of high importance and proprietary in nature, which you will come across in the normal course of your employment. Opinions about you are collected and analyzed by recruiters. It is important for everyone, especially management candidates. Recruiters are very clear about this; they can’t put their reputation at stake by recommending someone who they can’t trust, despite proven analytical abilities and business skills. The next important thing recruiters look for is character and a strong sense of ethics. Strong character coupled with professionalism determines your interpersonal skills. Your past experiences and references of your former superiors are critical aspects which typically impress recruiters. Even recent graduates wanting to score on this count could think of apprenticeships in some very large corporations such as PepsiCo, General Electric Company, Rubbermaid, and P & G, among others. Recruiters call these organizations ‘Academy Companies’.
It is especially important to be presently employed - this adds a lot of weight to your candidacy. It is true that you can explain your reasons for being unemployed, so if this is true for you, then have your answer well-prepared beforehand, because recruiters will be interested in probing soon as they see that you are out of job.
The ability to adapt to a new situation, responsiveness, flexibility are some innate qualities that make anyone an indispensable employee whom every recruiter wants to hire. A senior HR consultant, Paige Lloyd, summarizes things as "We're looking for students who take the initiative to do things that are above and beyond what is required for graduation," she says. "That speaks to us of their ability to work on different tasks." vacancy


10 Hot Jobs And The Certifications You Need To Get Them

While scouting for the top 10 hot jobs, we combed through tons of data offline as well online. Making a small list for just 10 hot jobs has taken some important considerations like the following ones:
1. Longevity of relevance of the job
2. Salary and growth potential
3. Universality of the field
While most job seekers looked for higher positions and salaries, others considered permanence of their job was their priority. It is noteworthy that the definition of job security has changed substantially in the last decade and it is all about continuing in the same job but under different employers. Ready? Here we go!
10 Hot Jobs And The Certifications You Need To Get Them
The top hot jobs were all of a high profile nature and most of them were in the field of computers.
1. CISCO CERTIFIED NETWORK EXPERT: This hits the top for the second successive year. Candidates consider themselves lucky to pass this test even on their second attempt where the percentage success rate is just 15. This hits the top because of its ever-increasing popularity, salary potential and vast potential.
2. MICROSOFT CERTIFIED SYSTEMS ENGINEER: The MCSE certification has stayed on top for many years now. The job involves working with operating systems and security issues. The popularity is also because it doesn’t require additional certification to get through to your dream job. Job profile: Systems Engineer and Systems Analyst.
3. TEACHER: Why do you think this found its way to Top-3 slot? Close to 1.3 million teachers need to be recruited in the next 5-6 years. Teachers in the K-12 bracket: 724,000 and post secondary teachers: 603,000. We had to give this position its due. All states offer various educator preparation programs for aspirants through their respective boards of education.
4. REGISTERED NURSES: Registered nurses are going to be in top demand in the next 5-6 years due to the government’s spending on healthcare programs. This had to happen sooner than later after the recent well-publicized nursing shortage. Certification: The boards of nursing in every state administers the certification exam, National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Minimum qualification to appear for this exam is graduation from approved nursing schools. Average salary, $53,000
5. COMPUTER SOFTWARE ENGINEER: CNN reports that 307,000 computer software engineers will be required in the next 3-4 years. This is one interesting job with lots of code writing or fixing for making the computers of the world work. Certification: University graduates with computer science as a major, with physics and math can jumpstart their careers. Some top certifications are MCSE, Sun Certified Java Programmer, MySQL and Red Hat Certified Engineer.
6. INVESTMENT AND FINANCIAL ADVISOR: Tops the salary charts for both federal as well as private employers. Based on the risk profile and risk-benefit analysis, they advise their clients on personal and business financial matters. Salary ranges from $28,500 to $145,600. Certification: College graduation along with a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification can enhance prospects.
7. CISCO CERTIFIED INTERNETWORK EXPERT (CCIE): If difficulty, prestige and recognitions are any thing to go by, here it is. CCIE is not among the most sought after certification but it is very difficult. This simply is the most feared exam of all. Certification: By CISCO
8. RED HAT CERTIFIED ENGINEER (RHCE): Increase of interest in open source code has shot up the popularity of this job. This is hailed as the MCSE of Linux certifications.
9. MEDICAL SCIENTIST: Broad category that involves medical research. This career is hot because of the large amount of research activity initiated by the government and private organizations on AIDS, cancer, Parkinson’s Syndrome and many more. Certification: Doctorate: $100,000 and above.
10. ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER: This job ranks high because of its high growth index in the next 2-3 years itself. Salary indicated ranges from $38,950 to $92,940. They work in laboratories in universities, governments, or research firms etc. Stringent environmental regulations are expected making the job a much preferred one. Certification: College graduation and degree in Environmental Engineering or Geology
employee, vacancy


High-powered Jobs Don’t Come Without Consequences

Katie Couric's recent announcement that she is leaving NBC's "Today" to become the next anchor for CBS News is the dawn of a new era at the network and for television news as a whole. The move also shines the spotlight on the issue of women and their role in high-powered jobs.
Beginning this fall, Couric will become the first woman to lead a network evening newscast alone when she begins her five-year deal as anchor and managing editor of the “CBS Evening News.” The third-place CBS hopes Couric’s celebrity can boost its sagging ratings and restore credibility to a network damaged by recent reporting missteps. job vacancy indonesia
The simple fact that Couric’s move has been treated as a major news story is evidence of the progress women have made in the working world, and the lengths they still have to go. The idea of a woman as the lead anchor going solo on the evening news would have been unheard of 30 years ago. Already quite familiar with a high-powered job, Couric will break down another workplace barrier in her new position. employee
Like many women, it’s likely Couric is familiar with the triumphs and struggles that many women with high-end positions face in the corporate world. Naturally, the overwhelming majority of women can’t relate to Couric’s celebrity or $15 million annual salary, but they are quite familiar with the mixed blessings that come with being a highly successful woman. On one hand, these positions have come with a status and self-fulfillment that have resulted in economic power and the removal of boundaries. On the other hand, high-powered women continue to be labeled as missing something in their lives and having a direct impact on traditional roles like child-bearing.
In a recent and controversial article by Alison Wolf, the Kings College of London academic writes that highly successful women have created enormous benefits for society, but have also contributed to “the death of sisterhood, a decline in female altruism and growing disincentives to bear children.”
In developed countries, Wolf believes that women now have the ability to take virtually any career path and the end result has created and will continue to create a fracture in society. Wolf doesn’t argue that it’s the wrong path for women to take, just a direction that will result in consequences, both good and bad.
“Women used to enter the elite as daughters, mothers and wives. Now they do so as individuals,” Wolf writes in the April issue of Prospect Magazine. “Three consequences get far less attention than they deserve. The first is the death of sisterhood: an end to the millennia during which women of all classes shared the same major life experiences to a far greater degree than did their men.
The second is the erosion of ‘female altruism,’ the service ethos which has been profoundly important to modern industrial societies – particularly in the education of their young, and the care of their old and sick. The third is the impact of employment change on childbearing. We are familiar with the prospect of demographic decline, yet we ignore, sometimes willfully, the extent to which educated women face disincentives to bear children.”
Wolf’s views, of course, have been subject to criticism. Many women believe that life in the high-powered fast lane can result in positive opportunities that other women may not be able to access. Many high-profile mothers with six-figure incomes have perks like on-site daycare for children. 

They also have the benefits of housekeepers, accommodating spouses and other support systems. In an age where even the two-income family is struggling just to make ends meet, the woman with the high-end job will be able to give her children and family the advantages and professional awards they otherwise wouldn’t have.
The woman with the elite job faces enormous challenges every day. And if she has afamily, then the life is even more complex. In spite of recent trend stories the past few years that highlighted women opting out of high-powered jobs to raise children and return home, the Center for Economic Policy has squashed that theory, stating that the number of women in the labor market has remained steady over the past few years, according to a March report in the San Francisco Chronicle. In fact, most high-powered women, whether they’re married, have children or are single, say the emotional charge and rewards from their jobs make them better spouses, girlfriends, parents and people vacancy

Your Money or Your Life - How to Break Free from a Crappy Job

Everyone gets emotional about money. Most of us link it to happiness and/or success. It almost certainly results in anger and frustration at some point in our lives. It appears as if money has some power over us – the power to make a difference in our lives. The truth is that money only has the power we assign to it. job vacancy indonesia
The cornerstone of personal finance is your ability to manage your cash flow. Taking in more than you spend is essential to growth and prosperity. Most people rely upon their job as their sole source of income. All too often we become emotionally connected to the income our jobs provide. This connection can prevent us from making sound decisions when it comes to our lives. It is this emotional connection that forces good people to stay in bad jobs. employee
The emotional connection makes our present job seem larger than life. No matter how hard we try we just can’t break free from the bonds of this terrible situation. “I hate the job but I need the money” becomes our mantra. In essence we become addicted to the income that the horrible job provides and we don’t see a way to break free.
Here are three things you can do to help break your addiction to your horrible job and take back control of your life:
Admit you have a problem. Admit that you are miserable in your current job. Admit it to yourself and to your family. You will be amazed at how good you feel when you get the burden of denial off of your chest.
This admission will allow you to begin welcoming help and support into your life. You will suddenly feel free to consider other options. A solution will not magically present itself, however your eyes will be open to some possibilities that you may not have previously noticed.
Develop some form of secondary income. This does not need to be an income stream that rivals your current role. Even something that provides a limited amount of cash will help. The object here is to build your confidence in earning some money in a situation outside your traditional comfort zone. The occupation for your secondary income is totally up to you. The one nonnegotiable factor is that it must be in an area that you enjoy. The idea is that once you see you can make some money – any money – from something you enjoy, your mind will be open to leaving a job you hate, but feel you need.
Put limits on your unhappiness. In order to get your life back and take control of your career you must set an end date with yourself. Give yourself ample time to explore new opportunities and learn about your hidden talents. Set a date for when you will have a job that is rewarding both emotionally and financially Setting a date does a few important things for you psychologically. First it shows that you have control. If you can set a date, then you can walk away. Second, it removes any anticipatory anxiety. Sometimes the dread that comes from going to work everyday is about not seeing an end. Setting a date changes that. Finally, when you set a date you give yourself the ultimate motivation. Your mind will drive your actions to become consistent with your thoughts. If you set a firm date and stick with it, you will find a better job because of your internal motivation. vacancy

Get Hired Faster By Changing Your Job Search Strategy

According to most experts, the average job search takes about five months to complete.
Five months is a long time to spend job searching, especially if you are currently out of work!
Why does the average job search take this long? One of the primary reasons is because most job seekers are using the exact same job search strategies. Most of them are using what could be called the "wait and hope" strategy. job vacancy indonesia
The wait and hope strategy is comprised of three primary steps.
1 - Search for jobs which are being advertised;
2 - Submit a resume for selected jobs;
3 - WAIT AND HOPE for an interview.
This is the primary strategy used because this is the way we were all taught to look for jobs.
A Better Job Search Strategy employee
Most people are not aware that only twenty percent of all vacant jobs are actually filled through advertising. This fact is a real eye opener for most people. If only twenty percent of jobs are filled through advertising, that leaves an overwhelming majority of eighty percent which are filled without advertising. If a job is not advertised, how is it ever filled? They are filled through the hidden job market!
What exactly is the hidden job market? These are the jobs that are hidden from public view. For the job seekers who only look for jobs through the classifieds or online advertising, they are completely left out of consideration for these jobs. Considering that eighty percent of jobs are filled this way, they miss out on the majority of jobs that are actually available. This is great news for the job seeker who is willing to learn how to tap into the hidden job market!
Five Easy Steps
You can tap into the hidden job market in five easy steps. Here is a short description of each step.
Step 1 - Develop A Target List Of Employers
The first thing you need to do is to develop a list of employers who have the type of job(s) you are interested in, in the locations you want, and are employers you would like to work for. I call this list of potential employers your job opportunity list. This list of potential employers can be very long, or quite short depending on your interests and needs.
Step 2 - Do Some Research
Once you have your job opportunity list together, use the Internet to do a little research on each potential employer. Use the company’s web site to read about the company, it's mission, it's products, any current news, and most importantly, find a company directory. Use the directory to find out who is the director or supervisor of the department you want to be hired into.
Step 3 - Look For Advertised Jobs
No, I haven't changed my mind. Advertised jobs should not be your primary means of finding your next job, but you should still spend a little time and see what types of jobs are being advertised in your area. Pay special attention to jobs advertised by companies on your job opportunity list.
Step 4 - Start Making Contacts
This is where you can start separating yourself from the competition. Most job seekers just won't make direct contact with potential employers. They are not comfortable applying for a job unless the potential employer has put up a big blinking sign (advertisement) that says, "We have a job opening, please send us your resume."
Make direct contact with the employers and let them know about you, your qualifications and experience, and your interest in working for their organization! vacancy

Can't Find a Job?

Why can’t I find a job?"
If you’ve been asking yourself this question recently, trust me you’re not alone.
Searching for a new job can be a difficult and frustrating task especially when you are out of work or when you are in a job you hate and want to escape.
If you can’t find a job and are increasingly frustrated with your lack of results, let’s look at the possible reasons for this outcome: 
    1. You are not getting interviews: If you aren’t getting interviews, your resume and cover letter are not doing their jobs. Their job is to get you interviews. Either that, or you are applying for the wrong jobs. Your resume and cover letter need to sell you to the employer and show them why you are the best person for the job. Alternatively, are you applying for jobs you really have no chance of getting? If so, don’t waste your time or the time of the employer who might eventually have a job that suits you that you should be applying for. 2. You are getting interviews but not job offers. If you are unable to close the deal in the interview process, look for possible problems: Are you coming across as too aggressive or laid back during interviews? Are you asking for too much money? Is your style of dress turning interviewers off? Are you better on paper than you are in person? Get as much feedback as possible (ask for positive and negative feedback) from any employer you interview with who has turned you down for a job. Make improvements for future interviews by fixing your mistakes.
    3. Are your references hurting you? This can be a difficult one to figure out but are you certain that your references are speaking as highly of you as you hope and expect? I’ve done references that actually hurt the candidate! Yes, bad references do happen and they can cost you jobs. Carefully think about who you are using as references and determine if they are helping or hurting you. If you are finding that employers are doing references on you and you are not getting job offers, there might be something wrong in the reference check stage. employee, vacancy

Kamis, 02 Desember 2010

At the Job Interview, Your Behavior Outweighs Your Answers

Nancy prepared long and hard for her job interview. She researched the company, studied the job description, developed and practiced answers for likely questions, dressed appropriately, and arrived early. She really needed the job!
At the job interview, Nancy answered every question well.
Unfortunately, her behavior sabotaged her performance. 
When introduced to the interviewer, she said, “Thank you so much for seeing me. I really need this job.” After answering one of the questions, she added, “I hope I answered that sufficiently for you. I really need this job.” As the interview was ending, the last thing she said was, “Thank you for the opportunity to interview for this job. I really need it!”
Nancy, like many other job candidates, believed that letting the interview know she really needed the job would help her to get it.
But that’s not true. 
As a matter of fact, being “too desperate” for the job is one of the most common reasons hiring managers will reject you, regardless of your qualifications. If they know how desperate you are, they will wonder to what lengths you will go to get the job—would you exaggerate on your résumé or lie during the interview? You don’t want them wondering about things like that. Be enthusiastic about the opportunity, but don’t be a “Needy Nancy.”
Here are six other behaviors to avoid during job interviews (despite the names, all behaviors apply to both men and women):
“Overly Familiar Fred” behaves like he’s best buddies with male interviewers, and flirts with female interviewers. He’ll smile, wink, joke around and try to come across as God’s gift to the hiring manager. It’s OK to be friendly and charming to a point, but there’s a line you should never cross. Professionalism is paramount. Don’t be an “Overly Familiar Fred.”
“Aimless Amy” behaves like she wants a job… and any job will do. It’s obvious to hiring managers that she doesn’t know what she wants to be when she grows up. Be prepared to communicate clear career goals and give compelling reasons why you want the specific job for which you are interviewing. Don’t be an “Aimless Amy.” 
“Rambling Randy” behaves like he’s trying to win a talking contest. He goes on and on, telling personal stories and getting completely away from the point of the question. Listening is as important as talking. Don’t talk just to fill a temporary silence from the interviewer. Stories are good, but they should be relevant and brief. Don’t be a “Rambling Randy.”
“Emotional Emma” lets her feelings interfere with her performance. If a tricky interviewer insults her appearance or skills to gauge her reaction, she’ll become visibly upset—perhaps even burst into tears or hurl insults back at the interviewer. If you have a temper or cry easily—or tend to get overly nervous—focus on remaining calm during the interview, no matter what. I’m not saying you should hide all emotions; no one wants to hire a robot. Let your personality show. But don’t be an “Emotional Emma.”
“Arrogant Andy” behaves like he’s doing the hiring manager a favor by coming in for an interview. He speaks in a condescending tone when answering questions he feels are beneath him. He enjoys bragging about his accomplishments, never mentioning team efforts. He is confident that his qualifications are far superior to those of other candidates. He’s sure the interview is just a formality, and believes the job is his if he really wants it. No matter how qualified you are, it’s more important to be likeable. No one will hire an egotistical jerk. Don’t be an “Arrogant Andy.”
“Timid Tina” behaves like she’s afraid to be noticed. She avoids eye contact, speaks in a quiet voice, answers questions with the fewest words possible, and rarely smiles. When asked if she has any questions as the interview winds down, she quickly says “No,” and looks longingly at the door, eager to escape. Many people are shy; very few people enjoy being interviewed. But no matter how desperately you wish someone would hire you based solely on your résumé, it’s not going to happen—you’ll have to talk your way into the job. Force yourself to show confidence and enthusiasm. After all, you have a lot to offer! You can’t offer anyone anything if you’re afraid to be noticed. Don’t be a “Timid Tina.” 

Job Interviews Can Be a Real Bore

I'm sorry, but job interviews can be a real bore. If you get an interview with a company and have four people to meet, the odds are that two of those interviews will be boring. What do I mean by boring? Well, there are a lot of people asked to interview who don't do it very often and don't really know what to ask. There are also those that are so scripted that the candidate is forced to fall back on answers that are also scripted. If the interviewer was nervous or unsure going into the meeting and remained that way through until the end, you will be blamed for it.
Boring interviews end up in a cycle of generic interaction that leads the interviewer to neither like you or dislike you. In the post-interview meeting that most companies have, you will likely not stand out. Instead, as you are peeling off your business suit or scraping off your fancy interview shoes, you are being described as "OK", "good gal/guy" or "capable". Not very inspiring for the hiring manager and not much cover if he/she wants to make you an offer.
Whether your fault or not, you have not broken through to this interviewer. Because the interview was uneventful, even if the fault of the interviewer, you are going to pay the price.
So how can you turn a boring interview into a memorable one?
Turn the discussion around to focus on the interviewer.
In some cases, this will be a relief. They were not comfortable asking questions anyway. In other cases, they will love the idea of sharing a success or describing a key project that they led.
Yes, you have to take over. But you have to be careful. Each interviewer is different and may require a different style of takeover. Sometimes one question from you can change the entire structure of the interview, make it more personal and provide the opening for you to become more than just one of five candidates being seen that day.
How about some ideas, you say?
1. Ask the first question and keep asking.
Here's an easy one: How long have you been with (COMPANY)? Kicks off the interview as conversational and sets the tone a bit. If you sense that the interviewer likes talking, ask additional questions to better understand his/her role in the company and what influence they may have on the position in question. Once you've established a more conversational format, you can introduce key points about yourself with more precision.
2. Ask a personal question that focuses attention on the interviewer in a positive way.
"What have been your best moments here at (COMPANY)?" This allows them to share something with you and allows you to follow-up in a number of different ways. If the response is that the interviewer was critical in the installation of a new piece of plant equipment, ask him to show it to you. Oh, how an interview changes when you can get up, walk around and get conversational. You are now building a relationship and having an impact. And, by the way, everyone else you are interviewing with sees you on your walk - you look to be getting special treatment, right?
3. Ask questions to introduce your key and unique skills.
Ask a question like: Do you have a system to consistently guarantee new products will launch on time? After they answer, you are free to describe your skills here and cement yourself as someone who can make a quick and substantial positive impact. Be careful not to ask questions that could potentially embarrass an interviewer or force them to look less than strategic.
Now I hear some of you saying: "Hey, I'm thankful for every interview I can get. I need interviews, boring or not to get myself back in business!". I hear you. In times when interviews are hard to come by, your ability to make a really positive and obvious impact is crucial. You want the interview team to come in to the candidate review meeting with words like "wow", "I could see him starting here tomorrow", "that's the one we need". And those reactions won't come from a team of four when two of the four are asking standard questions and getting acceptable, standard answers. Don't wait until the end to ask your questions. You may run out of time and, for sure, you will not stand out. > employee  


8 Interview Mistakes and How to Recover

There are big interviewing mistakes and there are little mistakes that you can make as a candidate during the interview. Some are universal. However, some mistakes that would be a big deal at one firm might be considered a little mistake at another. Nevertheless, be mindful of not making the most common of mistakes we see a lot of interviewees make. If you find yourself making one of these following mistakes here is what I recommend for damage control.
I must interject that, of course, the best advice is to not make these mistakes. But, from time-to-time mistakes happen. Many people get nervous during an interview and make mistakes they otherwise never would. So with the spirit of knowing that mistakes happen, let's deal with the most common ones one at a time.
1. Forgetting the name of your interviewer There are several levels of mistakes for this one. Before the interview and during the interview of course, and then there are those panel interviews where forgetting names can really fluster you.
Before the interview Check your notes, did you write it down anywhere? If you have a recruiter simply call and ask. If not check the online directory/contact us page. If not there call the company/receptionist/secretary and ask. You can simply tell them that you have an interview and misplaced your note with the name of the person you are interviewing with.
During the interview This is also going to be easy because you are going to use this tip when you go into your interview. Write the name of the person and title on a note card. Keep it in your inside jacket pocket or purse. Read it before you go in for the interview (many times pending your memory). Make sure that you say their name out loud when you meet them to help sear it into your skull. If you forget their name during the interview simply pull out the card and write a pretend note (as you see the name). If the interview format allows for note taking then simply have their name and title on the note page for easy reference.
Panel interviews A good technique is to be prepared to start taking notes immediately when the interview starts. When you meet everyone write their first name down in the position they are in the room to you onto the paper while their names are fresh in your mind. If you did not get all their names write a line or circle in the position where the interviewer is that you have forgotten their name. Pay attention to see if one of the other interviewers use their name and if so simply write it on the line or within the circle. You can easily glance at this "chart" without anyone noticing and with confidence use each interviewer's name as you address their questions. If you have one that you just can't get their name overcompensate a little (not a lot) with focused eye contact with that individual. > vacancy   
2. Mispronouncing an important word If you find yourself starting to say a word and it occurs to you that you have drawn a blank on the correct pronunciation of the word and you know you're about to butcher it then stop. Don't say the rest of the word. Act like that wasn't actually the word you wanted to use by pausing and then using a different word that conveys as close to the meaning of the word you blanked on as you can quickly draw upon. This is much better than totally mispronouncing the word. If you were unable to stop yourself or did not realize you butchered it until after it left your mouth then simply say something along the lines of, "That did not come out right did it? What I meant to say is..." Don't dwell on it. Don't bring the interviewers focus anymore to it.
3. Your stain is singing I love the commercial with Tide-to-Go of the person in the interview that has a stain on his shirt and it is so loud that it is all the interviewer can hear. I think it's pretty funny because it is so true.
You spilled something on yourself and have a nice stain to show for it or ripped your panty hose or any other clothing disaster then try to hide it. If you can't hide it then don't try to hide it. What I mean by that is if the stain is obvious then make sure you acknowledge it! Don't just act like it's not there. Point it out by saying something like, "It figures I would spill something on myself the day of an interview". Or, use humor and say something like, "I realize in hindsight that the food fight I started at lunch probably wasn't the best idea." It is better to acknowledge the spot than to pretend like it's not there and let the interviewer think that you don't know you have a giant coffee stain on your shirt. Smile, acknowledge and move on.
4. Using verbal crutches It's natural when a person gets nervous or excited to more heavily rely on verbal crutches than they normally would in just about any other conversation they have. Using words like "um" and "like" and "uh" every other word or at the beginning or end of every sentence is a mistake you need to be cognitive of because it is much more noticeable than you think. The people overly using these crutches typically don't realize it. So pay attention. If you notice yourself making this mistake then simply slow down, regain your verbal composure and try to focus a bit more on tightening up your sentences.
5. Stepping over your words It is easy to get tongue tied sometimes. When this happens just pause for one second, take the next sentence you want to say and articulate it and then take it sentence from sentence from there until you are back in your groove.
6. You're late One of the biggies. If you are going to be more than 10 minutes late call your interviewer and let them know when you are going to arrive and apologize. If you are going to be more than 10 minutes late ask if they would still like to interview you or if you should still come in or reschedule. Convey that you know their time is valuable (even though they are not going to perceive this by your actions) and give the important reason why you are late. Once you arrive apologize for being late and then let the issue subside, don't dwell on it.
7. Can't pronounce your interviewer's name Call before your interview and ask the receptionist or call the company directory to check and see if the names are verbally listed. If you are working with a recruiter, have them tell you or find out for you. A good trick is to call the person after business hours and listen to see if their name is on their voice mail. If all else fails be the first to introduce your name when you stick out your hand to shake theirs they will naturally respond with telling you their name and therefore how to pronounce it. If that doesn't work simply ask, "Am I pronouncing your name correctly?"
8. Overreacting to your interviewer's pessimism Many interviewers will act like they don't care much for you just to see how you will act in an uncomfortable situation. Depending on the kind of position you are interviewing for you might even have the interviewer try to "scare you off" by overemphasizing the negatives of the position and your qualifications for it. This is not uncommon with sales type positions. This is used as a test by some interviewers to see how much you want this job and how well you overcome objections. Their reasoning is if they can scare you away so easily you're not the right person for the job. If you want the job don't make the mistake of being scared off. Ask about the positive aspects of the position. Explain that you know nothing good comes easy in a career and you are willing to pay the dues to be successful.
Follow up When you send a thank you letter run damage control on any problems that occurred during your interview. Focus on major issues, not the small stuff. Simply acknowledge it and that's it. Don't write a paragraph explaining the details.
So we all make mistakes The important thing to remember is to not let your interviewing mistake get to you. Keep your composure. Have a relaxed attitude and as much as possible a good sense of humor about it. It's possible, and I have seen it happen on numerous occasions, that showing the interviewer how you handle and recover from a mistake shows them just the side of you that they are looking for and ends up playing to your advantage.


5 Tips To Excel At Interviewing

Currently, for my day job, I work on contract to develop software. Most of my contracts run months, not years so I have ample opportunity to go in to a company and interview for a position. In addition, I am asked on occasion to take part in an interview to help a client determine if a prospective developer would be a good fit for the organization.
So having sat on both sides of the table, with a frequency higher than most, I was asked by a client to come up with a short list of tips for interviewing. This short list of five tips will help you get an edge in your interview.
Tip #1 - Understand what you are doing there (an interview goes two ways)
This is the one tip that will influence all the others. What is an interview? Inter- as in intersection, interruption, and even Internet. The prefix inter means among or between. There is a bidirectional component. An intersection is where two roads cross, an interruption is where two thoughts cross, the Internet is where our collective networks cross. And an interview is where our views of each other cross.
Many people lose this perspective when interviewing. I think I'm going into an examination and being judged on whether I'm good enough to get the job. This is only partially true. The other half of the event is that I'm "viewing" them. I am deciding if this is a place I want to work and I can contribute with my talents and time to be a happy and productive partner.
So I'm going to be viewing very closely this hiring manager, the surroundings, the technical interviewer, the process they use, the tests they may give - everything I can to help me determine if this place is for me. I'm going to kick the tires. I'm not a lab rat in this process, I'm a participant in an inter-view.
Tip #2 - Be prepared (you've got to know what you want to know)
The last time you bought a car, did you just pull up at a dealer, walk around the lot and point at a car as the salesmen came running out to help you and just say, "I'll take that one over there in the corner?" Of course not. You probably looked at models, prices, fuel efficiency, comfort and amenities, horsepower, and safety features, oh don't forget the color, and maybe even more.
Knowing that I am making a decision about my potential hire, I don't want to go in unprepared. What am I looking for? Does this company do meaningful work? Will I be doing something that interests me? Or am I just looking to get a paycheck and hoping nobody notices me. I need to take a little time to decide what I'm looking for and actually ask about the situation and environment I'd be in.
For example, I've been put in places where contractors share a cubicle. It's a tight place to begin with, and I'd want to know who my bunk mate is before such a voyage. I've been at places where I worked in a meeting room with 6 other developers shoulder to shoulder around a big table with laptops. It's always fun when somebody takes a phone call, because we all get to listen in! I've even sat at a small table in the copy room where the faxes practically floated down onto my keyboard. At one place I came to work and didn't have a computer or even a chair, I sat on my desk for the first week reading manuals. And at another place I was given a box with my desk ready to assemble. We spent two days with electric drills assembling our desks before we could start working! If I wanted that, I would've been a handyman (which I'm not!). If I'm going to work somewhere - even for a few months - I want to see where I will be sitting.
What's important to you? The location, some of the other people? If you get a chance, stop and ask a future colleague what they think, how they're liking it. Don't expect the whole truth, but if you listen, you can get enough of a clue.
So be prepared for your interview with some questions and an idea of what you are looking for.
Tip #3 - Don't sweat it (everybody's nervous if you pay attention)
I'm always surprised how nervous people get in interviews. I guess I shouldn't be, I get fairly nervous myself. And as a person who often suffers from sweaty palms, that first handshake can really make me on edge. But a chuck to the shoulder or a parade float style wave just aren't acceptable, and a friendly hug is right out of the question! So just get used to the fact that you are going to be some degree of nervous.
But again - this is an interview. Stop and look at your interviewer, they're a little nervous themselves. They come in and shuffle through your resume. They have a stack of 50 on their desk and they have to talk to you like they know a little about you, that's stressful. They are usually meeting with you because they have a position they need filled. They have a need and it's not currently being met, this is stressful. They probably needed to fill this spot weeks ago and it got to the point where they had to get going on this, time is of the essence and stress is piling up.
So, understand and accept that you will be nervous, but it's not too hard to see the signs from your co-interviewers, that they are nervous as well. This can be a great comfort knowing that you're all in this together.

Tip #4 - Making a first impression... on purpose
As I've said, you are viewing them, so they are giving you a first impression. You need to pay attention and get the full benefit of what they have to offer. But you are also making your first impression and you should take some time to put your best foot forward.
They say, "You never get a second chance to make a first impression." But often we don't know when we are going to have that first encounter. You bump into a friend while out running errands and they introduce you to their friend who they've "told all about you." There you are - BOOM - a first impression, hope you were ready!
Interviews are very convenient in that you know you are going there to make a first impression. So make it count. Look your best, be confident, be excited for the new possibilities this opportunity may present to you - this day could change your life! For me moving from no paycheck to having a paycheck is a major difference that impacts my whole family. So I need to take advantage and get on edge and use the fact that this is my first impression for all it's worth.

Interview Bloopers And How To Correct Them

I'm sure you've sat through movie or TV "bloopers" at the end of shows and laughed at the mistakes the actors make during the filming of the show. If I could put together a film with bloopers that people make in interviews it might seem funny as well – but not when it happens in real life - to you!
How do you avoid bloopers? First you become aware of what some of the pitfalls of interviewing are and then you prepare and practice so that it won't happen to you. Here are 10 of those very pitfalls to watch for.
1. Poor non-verbal communication – slouching – fidgeting – lack of eye contact
It's about demonstrating confidence - standing straight, making eye contact, and connecting with a good, firm handshake. That first impression can be a great beginning, or a quick ending to your interview.
2. Not dressing for the job or company – "over casual"
Today's casual dress codes in the office, do not give you permission to dress as "they" do when you interview. It is important to look professional and well groomed, above all. Whether you wear a suit or something less formal depends on the company culture and the position you are seeking. If possible, call and find out what the company dress code is before the interview.
3. Not listening – only worrying about what you are going to say
From the very beginning of the interview, your interviewer is giving you information, either directly or indirectly. If you are not listening – turning up your intuitive - you are missing a major opportunity. Good communication skills include listening and letting the person know you heard what they said. Observe your interviewer and match that style and pace.
4. Talking too much – telling it all – even if it's not relevant
Telling the interviewer more than they need to know could be a fatal mistake. When you have not prepared ahead of time you may tend to ramble, sometimes talking yourself right out of the job. Prepare for the interview by reading through the job posting; matching your skills with the requirements of the position, and relating only that information.
5. Being over-familiar – your new best friend is NOT the interviewer
The interview is a professional meeting to talk business. This is not about making a new friend. The level of familiarity should mimic the demeanor of the interviewer. It is important to bring energy and enthusiasm to the interview, and to ask questions, but not to over-step your place as a candidate looking for a job.
6. Using inappropriate language – you "guys" know what I mean
It's a given that you should use professional language during the interview. Be aware of any inappropriate slang words or references to age, race, religion, politics, or sexual preferences – these topics could get the door slammed very quickly.
7. Acting cocky – being overconfident – "king of the hill"
Attitude plays a key role in your interview success. There is a fine balance between confidence, professionalism, and modesty. Even if you're putting on a performance to demonstrate your ability, over-doing is as bad, if not worse, as being too reserved.
8. Not answering the question asked – "jumping in without thinking"
When an interviewer asks for an "example of a time," you did something, he is seeking a sample of your past behavior. If you fail to relate a "specific" example, you not only don't answer the question, but you miss an opportunity to prove your ability and tell about your skills.

Want to Win the Job? Show Employers Your S.C.A.R.s

August 2007 brought some bad news for job seekers. The number of Americans with jobs fell in August for the first time in four years, raising fears that weakness in the economy has spread beyond the housing and financial sectors that have panicked markets in recent weeks. It appears that job seekers had a harder time finding work in August. June and July job figures where revised downward by 24,000 and 57,000.
Yet with this news, some people are still getting hired. 
How can you ensure you'll be the candidate who gets that great phone call with a job offer? Be sure to answer the 4 glowing needs every employer has in both your resume and in the interview. If you need help doing this, try using S.C.A.R. as a guide: 
 
Problem Solver
I can't think of one company, business, or organization that doesn't have problems. Companies hire people to come in and solve problems. Demonstrate how your past performance includes problems identified and solved. Try using the following guide:
S - Situation - "I was working at XYZ corporation last year when...
C - Challenge - ...we had this major crisis happen in the IT department...
A - Action - ...so rather than sit on my butt and watch it happen, I ...
R - Result - ...and because I took the action, the server came back up quickly and work continued."
Show them you fix problems and you'll get the offer. 
Money Maker
Companies ultimately exist to make money. Corporate mission and vision statements aside, it's the whole business of business. Are you a good investment? Will the organization make more money as a result of hiring you? If so, then prepare some stories about how you've helped make money.
Here's an example:
S - Situation - "I was working at XYZ corporation last year when...
C - Challenge - ...I identified a process that seemed to be fraught with rework...
A - Action - ...so rather than sit on my butt and let that process continue, I modified it so that ...
R - Result - ...and because I took the action, we saved over $100,000 last year." Show them you can make money and you'll get the offer.
People Lover
People are an organization's most valuable commodity and also the one that's most difficult to manage. Processes can be fixed but people are much more complex. Demonstrate that you have a heart for people and a great ability to deal with them and you'll be very attractive to an employer.
Here's an example:
S - Situation - "I was working at XYZ corporation 2 years ago when...
C - Challenge - ...I took over the management of a division where there was high employee turnover...
A - Action - ...so rather than sit on my butt and let that continue, I instituted a coaching and feedback system ...
R - Result - ...and because I took the action, our employee retention rate increased by 20%."
Show them you get along well with others and you'll get the offer.