Remember the expression “a stitch in time saves nine.” Tailors and seamstresses lived by that. What stitches they used, the type of thread, and the placement, made a garment that was strong and durable. Or one that had the buttons falling off. Or had loose threads that when pulled would cause a hemline to drop or a sleeve to fall off. It’s the details, the attention paid to the little things, that’s often the difference between success or failure of a project. Here are a few of the pitfalls to avoid in the workplace.
Being Tardy:
We hate it when we’re told the delivery will arrive at 10am and they don’t arrive till 3:30pm. We feel like we’re being taken advantage of, that our time isn’t important. We feel that the phrase “Customer Service” is just hollow words to placate us. And if we’re waiting for someone to pick us up at 3 and they don’t arrive till 4, we consider them unreliable. Since this is the way we feel about others when they are not on time, what do people say and feel about you and your time management. Unreliable, irresponsible, can’t follow a schedule, questionable comprehension, doesn’t care; these are a few of the thoughts about you. Show up early, about 15 minutes, for all of your appointments. This way, you won’t feel rushed and will have time to gather your thoughts. At work, this will give you an opportunity to prepare for your day, talk to your co-workers and get ready. Punctuality and time management will prove you are responsible, that you can finish tasks on time. It shows that you can accept challenges and that you can get things done the right way.
Spelling and Grammar Mistakes:
We are a nation of bad spellers. Sometimes in a rush to get an idea down on paper or a document out, we make typographical errors. While these aren’t fatal career mistakes, they do show someone who is careless and has little attention to detail. And don’t blame spell check. It is a very useful tool, but does have a few flaws. For example, if you spell a word wrong but it spells another word correctly, the mistake will not get caught. And to, two, and too will cause problems. Also, proper names, slang, and acronyms will come up as mistakes. If you’re unsure of how to spell a word, nothing can take the place of a good dictionary and thesaurus. Another way to avoid these problems from plaguing you is to have someone else proofread your work. Read your work out loud, to check the pace and flow of ideas. And use words you’re comfortable with.
The Name Game:
People are VERY particular about their name and job title. Calling someone by the wrong name, Bob instead of Bill, or Dave instead of David, says that you do not respect the individual. And mispronouncing the name shows that you do not pay attention. Next, getting their job title wrong, oh boy does that open up a can of worms. People have worked hard to earn their title, for in some cases, their identity is based upon it. Always make sure you get the name and title right. This is a major faux pas that can cause us to miss a great opportunity.
Not Answering The Question Asked:
Remember playing in the house on a rainy day and accidentally breaking a lamp, vase, or knickknack that has been around forever. First there was that moment of panic then comes the negotiations and agreeing on a cover story. Then, Mom comes over and asks, “What happened?” And right away, we answer, “I didn’t do it”, in a way that suggests that we did it. We just dug ourselves a hole that we could not get out of and before long; we’ve confessed to everything that we did. Later, while we’re sitting in our room, without TV or music (for these were the days before video games), we try to figure out what happened. It’s the same way in the workplace. We don’t answer the question that’s being asked. We answer according to the circumstances and tone of the questioner. And most times, we try to shift the blame and focus off of ourselves. But just like with Mom, the truth comes out, we’re in a time out and the consequences have to be dealt with. Always avoid the “it’s not my fault” reply. Do not blame others. Stand up, take responsibility, fix the problem, learn from the mistake, and do not repeat it. This approach will garner more respect, positive recognition, and will strengthen your reputation. Always stick to the truth. But remember, there are reasons why things happen. Tell the truth that answers the question without confessing your role. And if you say, “I’ll learn from this and it won’t happen again”, mean it!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
The Job Application: The Paper Interview
There are always obstacles on the path to a new job. Writing a cover letter that stands out is one. Next, the resume that features skills and accomplishments instead of duties and responsibilities needs to be crafted. Then comes the research part of our trip, finding those companies we want to work for, contacting our network to find out about industries and potential careers and sending our information to the right person. The waiting by the phone for the interview call is usually a fun time. But still and all, we successfully navigate these potholes and on a bright, sunny morning, we how up to meet with our perspective place of employment. We have practiced answering the interview questions we anticipate, and then WHAM, the receptionist hands us an application and tells us to fill it out completely.
Now, the real adventure begins. And career dreams and opportunities begin to fade. Here are a few helpful hints to remember before the sun does down on our dream job.
Resumes Are Different From Applications
You control the content of a resume. It’s your employment story and you can tell it anyway you want. The application is a different story, as it is asking for specific information. Here is where you write the addresses, phone numbers and supervisors of past employers. Here is where you write the duties and responsibilities of your past jobs go. Here is where you have to be accurate and honest. Since this is the information that can be verified during a background check.
Read The Questions Carefully
Are they asking for an employment history or work experience? Have you ever been convicted of a crime? Have you ever been convicted of a felony? Do you have a valid driver’s license?
There are examples of questions that cause us the most difficulty. We have an employment gap of 7 months, how does it get filled? Well, if they are asking for Work Experience, volunteering can fill the gap honestly. After all, it is work; you used your skills or developed new ones. But for Employment History, if you didn’t draw a paycheck, it doesn’t count.
If you have a criminal background, know all the charges and the disposition of each. Accused is different from arrested, which is different from convicted. And some companies will tell you not to include traffic arrests. Make sure you read the question carefully and only answer the question. You can put, “Will discuss in detail during the interview”, but make sure you know what you’re going to say. (Do not shift blame, it is what it is, take responsibility and move on.)
The Driver’s License answer is a simple one. If it is suspended or revoked, it’s not valid. Period, end of discussion. (But make sure you have a plan in place to get it back!)
Honesty Is The Best Policy
Be truthful with dates of employment, job titles, why you left your previous places pf employment, gaps, certificates held and degrees earned. Ever since 9-11, companies have gotten more and more security conscious and spend time doing background checks, including credit histories (to check up on your ideas about personal responsibility and cash handling abilities). They WILL look into your past. They will do a google search to see if anything comes up about you. They will check out your schools, asking for certified copies of certificates, transcripts, and degrees. If you received a degree from Fly By Night College, know it’s as worthless as a $3 bill.
Listing Relatives As References
It says right about the table, do not list relatives. But we do it anyway and lie about the relationship we have. We’ll use in-laws, cousins, or our sister (provided she uses her married name), because, hey, they’ll say nice things about us. And we think we’re slick; until the person conducting the reference check asks how they know up. Then the cat’s out of the bag and everything we said is open for examination. Plus, our personal integrity and/or comprehension is questioned because we did what we were told not to do.
Now, the real adventure begins. And career dreams and opportunities begin to fade. Here are a few helpful hints to remember before the sun does down on our dream job.
Resumes Are Different From Applications
You control the content of a resume. It’s your employment story and you can tell it anyway you want. The application is a different story, as it is asking for specific information. Here is where you write the addresses, phone numbers and supervisors of past employers. Here is where you write the duties and responsibilities of your past jobs go. Here is where you have to be accurate and honest. Since this is the information that can be verified during a background check.
Read The Questions Carefully
Are they asking for an employment history or work experience? Have you ever been convicted of a crime? Have you ever been convicted of a felony? Do you have a valid driver’s license?
There are examples of questions that cause us the most difficulty. We have an employment gap of 7 months, how does it get filled? Well, if they are asking for Work Experience, volunteering can fill the gap honestly. After all, it is work; you used your skills or developed new ones. But for Employment History, if you didn’t draw a paycheck, it doesn’t count.
If you have a criminal background, know all the charges and the disposition of each. Accused is different from arrested, which is different from convicted. And some companies will tell you not to include traffic arrests. Make sure you read the question carefully and only answer the question. You can put, “Will discuss in detail during the interview”, but make sure you know what you’re going to say. (Do not shift blame, it is what it is, take responsibility and move on.)
The Driver’s License answer is a simple one. If it is suspended or revoked, it’s not valid. Period, end of discussion. (But make sure you have a plan in place to get it back!)
Honesty Is The Best Policy
Be truthful with dates of employment, job titles, why you left your previous places pf employment, gaps, certificates held and degrees earned. Ever since 9-11, companies have gotten more and more security conscious and spend time doing background checks, including credit histories (to check up on your ideas about personal responsibility and cash handling abilities). They WILL look into your past. They will do a google search to see if anything comes up about you. They will check out your schools, asking for certified copies of certificates, transcripts, and degrees. If you received a degree from Fly By Night College, know it’s as worthless as a $3 bill.
Listing Relatives As References
It says right about the table, do not list relatives. But we do it anyway and lie about the relationship we have. We’ll use in-laws, cousins, or our sister (provided she uses her married name), because, hey, they’ll say nice things about us. And we think we’re slick; until the person conducting the reference check asks how they know up. Then the cat’s out of the bag and everything we said is open for examination. Plus, our personal integrity and/or comprehension is questioned because we did what we were told not to do.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Successfully Working A Career Fair
Personal contact, the face to face meeting, is the best way to introduce yourself to a perspective employer. Even though there are more ways than ever to get your marketing message out, career fairs let employers see the look in your eye and the confidence in your tone. This piece of the puzzle can become your interview if you’re ready, willing and able to take on the challenges.
Career Fairs work for you when you know how to work them. It is a place where you can use your communication skills to stand out. And all those “toys” on the table, pick them up on your way out! Remember, you are there to market yourself, interviews happen on the spot, be ready for anything.
Career Fairs work for you when you know how to work them. It is a place where you can use your communication skills to stand out. And all those “toys” on the table, pick them up on your way out! Remember, you are there to market yourself, interviews happen on the spot, be ready for anything.
Here are a few hints, tips and tricks to make this career fair work for you:
> Relax; you’re going to do great today!
> Relax; you’re going to do great today!
> Look over the list of who’s going to be there and pick out your top 10! Do some research about the companies who’ll be there. If you know about any new products or services that the company is providing, it will help you stand out. Better to talk to the ones you’re really interested in after you work out the nervousness by practicing with a few companies that are not high on your list.
> Before you go in, make sure that you have plenty of copies of your resume and a pad and pen to take notes. Be prepared to write down who you spoke to and what you talked about, make sure you get their business card to get the correct spelling of their name, title, and company. When you write your follow-up letter, it will help them remember you.
> Be ready for those pesky interview questions. You know they’re coming, so practice your answers.
> Dress for success. When you look good, you feel good and that confidence will show! You want to look like a professional.
> Once you’re inside:
* Take and read any material on the table before you talk to someone. This will give you time to do additional research and to help you get any last minute hints.
* Listen to the conversation to the person in front of you. You’ll hear the same questions and it will give you time to make your answers better.
* Shake hands and talk to the person
* Ask for an application if one is not offered.
* Ask the right questions. Prepare your top 5 and be sure to practice them. Try to ask a question like “what made you choose to work for this company and why do you stay?” This type of question will tell you about the corporate culture and future opportunities.
*Make sure you get the business cards of the people you talk to.
* Take and read any material on the table before you talk to someone. This will give you time to do additional research and to help you get any last minute hints.
* Listen to the conversation to the person in front of you. You’ll hear the same questions and it will give you time to make your answers better.
* Shake hands and talk to the person
* Ask for an application if one is not offered.
* Ask the right questions. Prepare your top 5 and be sure to practice them. Try to ask a question like “what made you choose to work for this company and why do you stay?” This type of question will tell you about the corporate culture and future opportunities.
*Make sure you get the business cards of the people you talk to.
> Do what the others won’t. Send a follow up letter and a copy of your resume by the Friday after the fair, so it arrives first thing Monday morning. They saw over 100 people. Do something positively professional to stand out and get your resume read.
> Be prepared to follow-up with a call on the Wednesday after the fair.
To get the job you want, you have to be consistent and persistent!
To get the job you want, you have to be consistent and persistent!
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
EFFECTIVELY USING WEB FOR YOUR CAREER MARKETING
“Everybody Gone Surfin', Surfin’ USA…” The Beach Boys
Over the years the internet has changed the way business does business. More and more, companies have increased their web presence and, in doing so, cut back on personnel and in personal contact. At job fairs, the phrase “you need to go on-line and fill out an application” or “e-mail your resume” is heard over and over again. Go to Target or K-Mart to fill out an application, and you are directed to a machine. But what business has failed to realize is there are many people out there who are reluctant to use this tool, the main reasons being the how’s (as in how do I use this) and why’s (if I’m looking for a job dealing with people, why do I have to deal with a machine). Let’s look at a few ways to improve and to use this tool effectively.
Professional E-Mail
Time and time again, candidates hurt their chances in this new era of impersonal contact by using an inappropriate e-mail address. Now, “onehotbiscuit@hotmail.com” might be true, but, if you really sit there and think about it, would you hire you if that was the e-mail you saw? What kind of professional image does that display? What about a person’s judgment?
This is how companies that are interested in you will get their first impression. Is it a favorable one? With the plethora of free e-mail services out there, you can have one for family and friends and one for business. Just make sure that whichever one you choose for business will let you get your name and if you have to use numbers, don’t use your birthday, anniversary, year graduated, or phone number (cause when you change phones, sometimes there is a porting fee to keep your number, the number should make sense, like an area or zip code). Don’t us this e-mail for personal matters and it should not become inundated with spam. If it does, you know that company does not respect you as a client and you should feel free to use another company.
Getting To Know You
There are terrific ways to find out how your vast array of skills can play in today’s workforce. But sometimes, finding out what those skills are can be a challenge in and of itself. Taking a free career assessment is an effective and efficient way to find out what you like to do and in what fields you can look for the right opportunity. One very good site to try is projectcareer.com. The questions are focused and the results are very through. It will break down your best results; discuss the industry, list sample job titles, interesting facts, and employment outlook. The report is comprehensive and even provides links for further career information. Or you could go to a search engine and take one or two. This way you can compare the results and see which one fits you best.
Not All Job Sites Are Created Equal
So now it’s the time to post your resume. You go to Monster.com and CareerBuilder.com and follow the directions. And then you wait. And wait. And wait. They are the best ones for me, right? The biggest is always the best, right? Maybe. But what if you’re looking for something different, like working on a cruise ship or a government job? Or what about working for a non-profit, where all your different skills could come into play, instead on a few specific ones. You could have a background in the military, where are opportunities listed for you?
Research pays off big time in this endeavor, as you can go to any search engine and look for specific job sites for your career goals. To help you along the path, here is a list of 12 worthwhile sites that you can try:
> http://www.idealist.org/ (non-profit careers)
Over the years the internet has changed the way business does business. More and more, companies have increased their web presence and, in doing so, cut back on personnel and in personal contact. At job fairs, the phrase “you need to go on-line and fill out an application” or “e-mail your resume” is heard over and over again. Go to Target or K-Mart to fill out an application, and you are directed to a machine. But what business has failed to realize is there are many people out there who are reluctant to use this tool, the main reasons being the how’s (as in how do I use this) and why’s (if I’m looking for a job dealing with people, why do I have to deal with a machine). Let’s look at a few ways to improve and to use this tool effectively.
Professional E-Mail
Time and time again, candidates hurt their chances in this new era of impersonal contact by using an inappropriate e-mail address. Now, “onehotbiscuit@hotmail.com” might be true, but, if you really sit there and think about it, would you hire you if that was the e-mail you saw? What kind of professional image does that display? What about a person’s judgment?
This is how companies that are interested in you will get their first impression. Is it a favorable one? With the plethora of free e-mail services out there, you can have one for family and friends and one for business. Just make sure that whichever one you choose for business will let you get your name and if you have to use numbers, don’t use your birthday, anniversary, year graduated, or phone number (cause when you change phones, sometimes there is a porting fee to keep your number, the number should make sense, like an area or zip code). Don’t us this e-mail for personal matters and it should not become inundated with spam. If it does, you know that company does not respect you as a client and you should feel free to use another company.
Getting To Know You
There are terrific ways to find out how your vast array of skills can play in today’s workforce. But sometimes, finding out what those skills are can be a challenge in and of itself. Taking a free career assessment is an effective and efficient way to find out what you like to do and in what fields you can look for the right opportunity. One very good site to try is projectcareer.com. The questions are focused and the results are very through. It will break down your best results; discuss the industry, list sample job titles, interesting facts, and employment outlook. The report is comprehensive and even provides links for further career information. Or you could go to a search engine and take one or two. This way you can compare the results and see which one fits you best.
Not All Job Sites Are Created Equal
So now it’s the time to post your resume. You go to Monster.com and CareerBuilder.com and follow the directions. And then you wait. And wait. And wait. They are the best ones for me, right? The biggest is always the best, right? Maybe. But what if you’re looking for something different, like working on a cruise ship or a government job? Or what about working for a non-profit, where all your different skills could come into play, instead on a few specific ones. You could have a background in the military, where are opportunities listed for you?
Research pays off big time in this endeavor, as you can go to any search engine and look for specific job sites for your career goals. To help you along the path, here is a list of 12 worthwhile sites that you can try:
> http://www.idealist.org/ (non-profit careers)
> http://www.gettinghired.com/ (career opportunities for people with disabilities)
> http://www.ecoemploy.com/ (environmental careers)
> http://www.funjobs.com/ (just what the name implies)
> http://www.diversityinc.com/ (companies looking to hire a diversified staff)
> http://www.greentogray.com/ (military to civilian opportunities)
> http://www.helmitstohardhats.com/ (same as above)
> http://www.backstagejobs.com/ (performing arts careers)
> http://www.showbizjobs.com/ (same as above)
> http://www.dice.com/ (technology career positions)
> http://www.jobsinhealthcare.com/ (you got this, right)
> http://www.usajobs.gov/ (federal government jobs)
The point is, there are hundreds of thousands of web sites out there. The biggest isn’t always the best for your career growth and development. Try to find one that fits your career path.
Networking
Networking is a job seekers best friend. The people you know, both personally and professionally, provide valuable contacts that can help provide advice, job leads, and help alleviate the feelings of isolation that you can experience. So it’s time to find the business cards you’ve accumulated, take out the rolodex, find your phone book, and reach out. You’ll find people ready, willing and able to help, once they know you’re available.
Another way to network is to join professional associations relative to your professional goals. You can join local organizations in your community. This will get you out of the house, with a sense of purpose. And you need a way to reach out to your friends friends.
While facebook and twitter are fun, these are social sites. And the information, photos and video’s posted on these and other sites don’t exactly scream “hire me.” And as a point of fact, postings of your weekend escapades or what you did when you called out sick can ruin your professional reputation, effect your chances of promotion, and in some cases, can lead to termination as your supervisors will question your judgment. Just remember what a photo of Michael Phelps did for his marketability and reputation. If 14 gold medals and 7 world records don’t cut someone any slack, how much can you expect?
One of the best sites for business networking is http://www.linkedin.com/. Not only can you post your resume and other career accomplishments, the recommendation feature is a powerful tool. Past and present supervisors, colleagues, and peers can extol your value and virtues. True, they may not be specific to the opportunity you are targeting, but they have a genuineness, a believability about them. They are more personal, and since they are part of your network, a company doing a background search, sees the type of people you know and associate with. And like the “seven degrees of Kevin Bacon” game, you can find out who knows who, which can help get your foot in the door. It won’t get you the job, but it could get you a chance to interview, and then the rest is up to you.
A Research Tool
Since most companies have a web presence, researching the companies that you want to work for is now easy. You can find the company history, products, services, personnel, stock prices, what’s been written about them by whom, and who there competitors are. Armed with this information, you can better state your qualifications and what you bring to the table. Doing research shows more than just interest, it shows you care about making an informed decision.
Last Thoughts
The internet is a tool whose value increases when it is used effectively. Creating a presence on the web takes careful planning. And the positive results that can come of it are worth it, both personally and professionally. Information is available anytime, at your fingertips, to help you make the right choices. Make sure you choose wisely.
> http://www.ecoemploy.com/ (environmental careers)
> http://www.funjobs.com/ (just what the name implies)
> http://www.diversityinc.com/ (companies looking to hire a diversified staff)
> http://www.greentogray.com/ (military to civilian opportunities)
> http://www.helmitstohardhats.com/ (same as above)
> http://www.backstagejobs.com/ (performing arts careers)
> http://www.showbizjobs.com/ (same as above)
> http://www.dice.com/ (technology career positions)
> http://www.jobsinhealthcare.com/ (you got this, right)
> http://www.usajobs.gov/ (federal government jobs)
The point is, there are hundreds of thousands of web sites out there. The biggest isn’t always the best for your career growth and development. Try to find one that fits your career path.
Networking
Networking is a job seekers best friend. The people you know, both personally and professionally, provide valuable contacts that can help provide advice, job leads, and help alleviate the feelings of isolation that you can experience. So it’s time to find the business cards you’ve accumulated, take out the rolodex, find your phone book, and reach out. You’ll find people ready, willing and able to help, once they know you’re available.
Another way to network is to join professional associations relative to your professional goals. You can join local organizations in your community. This will get you out of the house, with a sense of purpose. And you need a way to reach out to your friends friends.
While facebook and twitter are fun, these are social sites. And the information, photos and video’s posted on these and other sites don’t exactly scream “hire me.” And as a point of fact, postings of your weekend escapades or what you did when you called out sick can ruin your professional reputation, effect your chances of promotion, and in some cases, can lead to termination as your supervisors will question your judgment. Just remember what a photo of Michael Phelps did for his marketability and reputation. If 14 gold medals and 7 world records don’t cut someone any slack, how much can you expect?
One of the best sites for business networking is http://www.linkedin.com/. Not only can you post your resume and other career accomplishments, the recommendation feature is a powerful tool. Past and present supervisors, colleagues, and peers can extol your value and virtues. True, they may not be specific to the opportunity you are targeting, but they have a genuineness, a believability about them. They are more personal, and since they are part of your network, a company doing a background search, sees the type of people you know and associate with. And like the “seven degrees of Kevin Bacon” game, you can find out who knows who, which can help get your foot in the door. It won’t get you the job, but it could get you a chance to interview, and then the rest is up to you.
A Research Tool
Since most companies have a web presence, researching the companies that you want to work for is now easy. You can find the company history, products, services, personnel, stock prices, what’s been written about them by whom, and who there competitors are. Armed with this information, you can better state your qualifications and what you bring to the table. Doing research shows more than just interest, it shows you care about making an informed decision.
Last Thoughts
The internet is a tool whose value increases when it is used effectively. Creating a presence on the web takes careful planning. And the positive results that can come of it are worth it, both personally and professionally. Information is available anytime, at your fingertips, to help you make the right choices. Make sure you choose wisely.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Working For The People
Are you looking for a job that has meaning? Do you want to make a contribution? Do you love your country? If the answer is yes to these questions, it is time to look for work at the nations’ number one employer and leading non-profit, the Federal Government of the United States.
The government payroll consists of over 1.8 million employees, who work in almost every conceivable career field, in a wide variety of occupations, from Accounting to Zoology, and opportunities abound. (For example, the US Census will be looking for people, for long term, temporary employment, to make sure that all the people are counted.) Most are steady jobs, with excellent benefits, including health insurance, child care and a pension after 25 years. The salaries are based upon the “General Schedule” pay scale, ranging from $20,000 up to $55,000. There are exceptions based upon location and if the position is one that is hard to fill.
When beginning to look for government employment, research is a key piece of the puzzle. There are a variety of ways to locate the information you need such as; finding the current available positions (www.USAJobs.gov, www.federalgovernmentjobs.us, www.federaljobs.net, are a few of the web resources available, the Federal Job Digest, or call 1-478-757-3000 to find available openings by phone), carefully reviewing what skills the position requires, and the proper way to apply. Plus, there are opportunities available in New Jersey State government (www.nj.gov) or Ocean County (http://www.ocean.nj.us.employeeservicesmainpage.aspx/). The government wants the information it wants in a certain way. So, if you want your application to get into the right hands, pay attention to the details. Some of the web sites listed earlier have a resume builder to help you give the government the data they are looking for, the way they want to see it.
Since a resume is necessary for applying for any opportunity, tailor it with additional information, like country of citizenship, Veteran’s preference, and specific job details including hours worked weekly, salary, and the names, full addresses, and phone numbers of employers and supervisors. The government will check this information, so be as honest and especially accurate as possible. Remember, the key to being called for an interview, is to include the specific information requested in the job vacancy announcement.
“A government of the people, by the people” only works for the people, when the people get involved. You can make a difference; you can effect change, in a positive way, by working for the government to fulfill its mission of service.
The government payroll consists of over 1.8 million employees, who work in almost every conceivable career field, in a wide variety of occupations, from Accounting to Zoology, and opportunities abound. (For example, the US Census will be looking for people, for long term, temporary employment, to make sure that all the people are counted.) Most are steady jobs, with excellent benefits, including health insurance, child care and a pension after 25 years. The salaries are based upon the “General Schedule” pay scale, ranging from $20,000 up to $55,000. There are exceptions based upon location and if the position is one that is hard to fill.
When beginning to look for government employment, research is a key piece of the puzzle. There are a variety of ways to locate the information you need such as; finding the current available positions (www.USAJobs.gov, www.federalgovernmentjobs.us, www.federaljobs.net, are a few of the web resources available, the Federal Job Digest, or call 1-478-757-3000 to find available openings by phone), carefully reviewing what skills the position requires, and the proper way to apply. Plus, there are opportunities available in New Jersey State government (www.nj.gov) or Ocean County (http://www.ocean.nj.us.employeeservicesmainpage.aspx/). The government wants the information it wants in a certain way. So, if you want your application to get into the right hands, pay attention to the details. Some of the web sites listed earlier have a resume builder to help you give the government the data they are looking for, the way they want to see it.
Since a resume is necessary for applying for any opportunity, tailor it with additional information, like country of citizenship, Veteran’s preference, and specific job details including hours worked weekly, salary, and the names, full addresses, and phone numbers of employers and supervisors. The government will check this information, so be as honest and especially accurate as possible. Remember, the key to being called for an interview, is to include the specific information requested in the job vacancy announcement.
“A government of the people, by the people” only works for the people, when the people get involved. You can make a difference; you can effect change, in a positive way, by working for the government to fulfill its mission of service.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
A Lesson In Time
Time is the great equalizer. There are only 24 hours in a day and no one can buy more time, it can only be spent. Some want to control time, but no matter how much you might beg or plead, it is the same for everyone, rich or poor, as I said the great equalizer.
Time is also a resource that can be managed and maximized. Here are a few suggestions on how to make the most of the time we have available and to utilize it efficiently and effectively.
Finish One Thing First:
Even though multitasking is the latest buzz, when juggling tasks, sometimes we forget about keeping our eyes on all the balls in the air. And when they do fall, the time spent doing damage control wasn’t worth the trade. Juggle what you can, but always remember to finish what needs to be finished first. By doing so, you will find a little oasis of sanity and calm, and are better able to move on to the next task.
Flexibility:
Being organized and completing tasks actually helps you to be flexible. As you have more flexibility in your schedule, you find that you have more opportunities to do what has to be done. And this flexibility lets you build beneficial work relationships since you can now talk to and help your co-workers. Once they see that you are willing to be a part of a team, it’s easier to ask for and get assistance when we need it.
Get Organized:
Busy people write things down. It gives them a map to follow, a direction in which to go. This is a HUGE timesaver since it helps you to work smarter, not harder, under pressure. Write stuff down where it’s supposed to be written. All those sticky notes with names and numbers should go into your phone book. Date and time notes should be written in your calendar. Deal with each piece of paper once; read it, then file it, pass it on or can it. This way your focus is on results, not being busy looking for stuff.
Daily Goals:
Spend a few minutes before leaving for the day writing out the next day’s to do list so you can hit the ground running. This will help you to look at the time available and how best to plan your day. It’s easier to get things done, when you know what you have to do. You’ll remember to carry out the important tasks first and to not major on the minor. Gather the information\materials you need for the project before you start. This will help your production and stay focused on what you’re doing.
Take Time For Time:
The one advantage that smokers in an office have is that they have to get away from their desk to enjoy a cigarette. This gives them the opportunity to relax and develop an idea. It’s an opportunity to talk to others and brainstorm. Now if you don’t smoke, walk outside & get a breath of fresh air. Let nature help recharge your battery. Also, if a colleague walks up to talk while you’re working on a deadline, schedule a time to talk to them later on in the day. By getting away from your desk, the surge of ideas increases as the blood flows.
Do Things Right The First Time:
Carpenters have a standard rule, measure twice, cut once. The idea is to double check what you’re doing before executing. This will cut down on costly mistakes and make you more productive in the long run. Nothing wastes more time than having to do a job over and over again. Look for ways to cut out repetitive tasks. Learn from your mistakes. By doing things right the first time, you’ll have more time.
The bottom line is this, have a plan in place to help you manage time. This will enable you to be productive instead of looking busy.
Time is also a resource that can be managed and maximized. Here are a few suggestions on how to make the most of the time we have available and to utilize it efficiently and effectively.
Finish One Thing First:
Even though multitasking is the latest buzz, when juggling tasks, sometimes we forget about keeping our eyes on all the balls in the air. And when they do fall, the time spent doing damage control wasn’t worth the trade. Juggle what you can, but always remember to finish what needs to be finished first. By doing so, you will find a little oasis of sanity and calm, and are better able to move on to the next task.
Flexibility:
Being organized and completing tasks actually helps you to be flexible. As you have more flexibility in your schedule, you find that you have more opportunities to do what has to be done. And this flexibility lets you build beneficial work relationships since you can now talk to and help your co-workers. Once they see that you are willing to be a part of a team, it’s easier to ask for and get assistance when we need it.
Get Organized:
Busy people write things down. It gives them a map to follow, a direction in which to go. This is a HUGE timesaver since it helps you to work smarter, not harder, under pressure. Write stuff down where it’s supposed to be written. All those sticky notes with names and numbers should go into your phone book. Date and time notes should be written in your calendar. Deal with each piece of paper once; read it, then file it, pass it on or can it. This way your focus is on results, not being busy looking for stuff.
Daily Goals:
Spend a few minutes before leaving for the day writing out the next day’s to do list so you can hit the ground running. This will help you to look at the time available and how best to plan your day. It’s easier to get things done, when you know what you have to do. You’ll remember to carry out the important tasks first and to not major on the minor. Gather the information\materials you need for the project before you start. This will help your production and stay focused on what you’re doing.
Take Time For Time:
The one advantage that smokers in an office have is that they have to get away from their desk to enjoy a cigarette. This gives them the opportunity to relax and develop an idea. It’s an opportunity to talk to others and brainstorm. Now if you don’t smoke, walk outside & get a breath of fresh air. Let nature help recharge your battery. Also, if a colleague walks up to talk while you’re working on a deadline, schedule a time to talk to them later on in the day. By getting away from your desk, the surge of ideas increases as the blood flows.
Do Things Right The First Time:
Carpenters have a standard rule, measure twice, cut once. The idea is to double check what you’re doing before executing. This will cut down on costly mistakes and make you more productive in the long run. Nothing wastes more time than having to do a job over and over again. Look for ways to cut out repetitive tasks. Learn from your mistakes. By doing things right the first time, you’ll have more time.
The bottom line is this, have a plan in place to help you manage time. This will enable you to be productive instead of looking busy.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
The Value Of Volunteering
“It takes a village to raise a child”, African Proverb
It seems that every employment ad today is looking for experience in that particular line of employment. But the problem is, how do I get experience if no one will hire me after I finish a training program?
The best way to gain that career knowledge is to volunteer. This is a great way to grow and expand a network. People you meet in this way will respect what you do. They will respect your dedication, passion, and commitment to a cause. They will see you as a hard worker and a contributor.
Here are a few more values beyond a paycheck that volunteering will do for you.
Gain Knowledge and Experience
Textbooks, classrooms and the internet are great places to learn the theories, the why’s of a job. But the how’s come from actually doing. This is where theory meets reality. Here is where you can hone your skills and make a difference while learning. You will have the opportunity to see what your chosen field is like on a day in, day out basis and talk to people as they are doing what they are doing. You’ll be able to pick up the jargon (the language) of the industry so you know what people are saying. The major benefit is when you sit down to interview, by speaking “their language” correctly, you stand out.
Cover Gaps
One way to fill in a resume is with education. This is a great way to show that one has the willingness and ability to learn. But here again, learning is theory; If everything is perfect, this is what should, could, and will happen. As we know, life isn’t perfect and that’s where volunteering comes in.
Not only does it take abstract learning and make it real, it provides the opportunity for hands-on experience. It covers gaps and can be listed in chronological order in the resume under experience. Volunteering shows drive and desire to work or help benefit others. It shows hard work, it shows that you aren’t a lazy couch potato waiting for your shows to come on.
You can volunteer at your child’s school as class parent (organizing, purchasing, communication, record keeping), at a hospital (caring, concern for others), shelter, soup kitchen, library, museum, first aid squad, fire house, police station, your place of worship, the recreation department.
This shows a person who uses time wisely and it gives you the opportunity to learn the job from the inside.
Sense of Self-Worth
Sometimes when we’re unemployed (or under employed a growing phenomenon in the US), we feel like we’re a failure. Volunteering, helping others, is a great way to counteract those feelings of inadequacy. By giving back, we can share our most precious resource (Time) and gift (ourselves) with people who need.
An increased sense of self, knowledge, practical work experience, giving back to others, these are just a few benefits to sharing our time with others.
It seems that every employment ad today is looking for experience in that particular line of employment. But the problem is, how do I get experience if no one will hire me after I finish a training program?
The best way to gain that career knowledge is to volunteer. This is a great way to grow and expand a network. People you meet in this way will respect what you do. They will respect your dedication, passion, and commitment to a cause. They will see you as a hard worker and a contributor.
Here are a few more values beyond a paycheck that volunteering will do for you.
Gain Knowledge and Experience
Textbooks, classrooms and the internet are great places to learn the theories, the why’s of a job. But the how’s come from actually doing. This is where theory meets reality. Here is where you can hone your skills and make a difference while learning. You will have the opportunity to see what your chosen field is like on a day in, day out basis and talk to people as they are doing what they are doing. You’ll be able to pick up the jargon (the language) of the industry so you know what people are saying. The major benefit is when you sit down to interview, by speaking “their language” correctly, you stand out.
Cover Gaps
One way to fill in a resume is with education. This is a great way to show that one has the willingness and ability to learn. But here again, learning is theory; If everything is perfect, this is what should, could, and will happen. As we know, life isn’t perfect and that’s where volunteering comes in.
Not only does it take abstract learning and make it real, it provides the opportunity for hands-on experience. It covers gaps and can be listed in chronological order in the resume under experience. Volunteering shows drive and desire to work or help benefit others. It shows hard work, it shows that you aren’t a lazy couch potato waiting for your shows to come on.
You can volunteer at your child’s school as class parent (organizing, purchasing, communication, record keeping), at a hospital (caring, concern for others), shelter, soup kitchen, library, museum, first aid squad, fire house, police station, your place of worship, the recreation department.
This shows a person who uses time wisely and it gives you the opportunity to learn the job from the inside.
Sense of Self-Worth
Sometimes when we’re unemployed (or under employed a growing phenomenon in the US), we feel like we’re a failure. Volunteering, helping others, is a great way to counteract those feelings of inadequacy. By giving back, we can share our most precious resource (Time) and gift (ourselves) with people who need.
An increased sense of self, knowledge, practical work experience, giving back to others, these are just a few benefits to sharing our time with others.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Writing A Resume That Works For You
Do you have a resume?
This question is all that one hears today when looking for a job. But what is a resume? It is a marketing tool that you use to describe your life-work experience. It should show your background, accomplishments and skills, and how they were used to help you succeed. And, how what you bring to the table can be utilized by a new employer.
Here are a few tips for getting your resume read and acted upon:
1. No more objectives. All objectives sound the same, “I’m looking for challenging and rewarding work as a (place job title here) for a company that’s growing.” When everything is the same nothing stands out. Plus, they’re written from the employee’s point of view, what you want. Instead, use a Skills or Summary section where you can describe 5 or 6 reasons to hire you. This gives you the opportunity to match your skills and experience to the specific opportunity available. It will provide a common theme to all your correspondence, show effective communication skills and focus. And will also help with answers to interview questions such as “why should I hire you” or “what can you do for this company that the others can’t?”
2. Watch the little things. Include your name, address, up-to-date phone number and professional e-mail address. Use a simple font. Print it on white paper. Make sure the copier you use makes a good copy. Know your dates of employment. Watch your spelling. Again, WATCH YOUR SPELLING! It has to be legible, that means clear, precise and to the point. It doesn’t matter what it looks like if there are mistakes, missing information, and careless errors.
3. Two pages are ok if you have the experience to back it up. Face it, in today’s job market; we’ll have 7 different careers and about 15 different jobs before we retire. To cut that experience down to a page doesn’t tell enough about you. And if you’re going for your first job, talk about what your school or community achievements were.
4. Have someone else proof read it when it’s finished. To us, it could look like the Mona Lisa, to others, a finger painting. Get the opinion of one you respect and listen to what they say.
5. Do: use action works and key industry phrases; use bullets to emphasize points; list any awards, certificates, licenses, degrees; list volunteer experience (especially when you have no employment history). Remember KISS-Keep it short & sweet.
6. Don’t: use personal pronouns; include personal information (marital status, kids, social security number, religion, height, weight); include a photo, put your references on the resume; talk about why you left other jobs; say anything negative about any previous job or manager; mess with academic credentials; change dates of employment; repeat the same job tasks over and over, instead talk about what you accomplished; list hobbies\interests unless for example, you’re a skier looking for work as a ski instructor.
7. It’s not chiseled in stone. Always be ready to tweak your resume by adding new skills, new jobs, new certificates\licenses\degrees. When you answer an ad, they always list the skills the position requires, make sure that they are listed in your skills\qualifications section.
The goal is to create a document that gets read and gets results. The resume won’t get you hired, but it will get you in front of the people who can.
This question is all that one hears today when looking for a job. But what is a resume? It is a marketing tool that you use to describe your life-work experience. It should show your background, accomplishments and skills, and how they were used to help you succeed. And, how what you bring to the table can be utilized by a new employer.
Here are a few tips for getting your resume read and acted upon:
1. No more objectives. All objectives sound the same, “I’m looking for challenging and rewarding work as a (place job title here) for a company that’s growing.” When everything is the same nothing stands out. Plus, they’re written from the employee’s point of view, what you want. Instead, use a Skills or Summary section where you can describe 5 or 6 reasons to hire you. This gives you the opportunity to match your skills and experience to the specific opportunity available. It will provide a common theme to all your correspondence, show effective communication skills and focus. And will also help with answers to interview questions such as “why should I hire you” or “what can you do for this company that the others can’t?”
2. Watch the little things. Include your name, address, up-to-date phone number and professional e-mail address. Use a simple font. Print it on white paper. Make sure the copier you use makes a good copy. Know your dates of employment. Watch your spelling. Again, WATCH YOUR SPELLING! It has to be legible, that means clear, precise and to the point. It doesn’t matter what it looks like if there are mistakes, missing information, and careless errors.
3. Two pages are ok if you have the experience to back it up. Face it, in today’s job market; we’ll have 7 different careers and about 15 different jobs before we retire. To cut that experience down to a page doesn’t tell enough about you. And if you’re going for your first job, talk about what your school or community achievements were.
4. Have someone else proof read it when it’s finished. To us, it could look like the Mona Lisa, to others, a finger painting. Get the opinion of one you respect and listen to what they say.
5. Do: use action works and key industry phrases; use bullets to emphasize points; list any awards, certificates, licenses, degrees; list volunteer experience (especially when you have no employment history). Remember KISS-Keep it short & sweet.
6. Don’t: use personal pronouns; include personal information (marital status, kids, social security number, religion, height, weight); include a photo, put your references on the resume; talk about why you left other jobs; say anything negative about any previous job or manager; mess with academic credentials; change dates of employment; repeat the same job tasks over and over, instead talk about what you accomplished; list hobbies\interests unless for example, you’re a skier looking for work as a ski instructor.
7. It’s not chiseled in stone. Always be ready to tweak your resume by adding new skills, new jobs, new certificates\licenses\degrees. When you answer an ad, they always list the skills the position requires, make sure that they are listed in your skills\qualifications section.
The goal is to create a document that gets read and gets results. The resume won’t get you hired, but it will get you in front of the people who can.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Getting Results From A Cover Letter
Before the advent of computers and the subsequent security measures undertaken by employers due to 9-11, job seekers had an easier time. You got dressed for success (men a suit and tie, women a dress or pants suit), walked into to the company you wanted to work for and got an application from Human Resources (formally Personnel). If they had time, and you made the right impression, an interview on the spot was not uncommon.
Or, a parent, relative, or family friend would bring you to work to “meet” the boss. After an exchange of pleasantries and a few simple questions (like how do you know so and so), you started work the next Monday.
But today, things are different. In the earlier cases, your appearance, interests, or relationships opened doors. Now, you need a professional introduction to the company, a way for them to see who you are, what you know, where you learned it, and how you use what you know. This is the purpose of a cover letter.
A well written cover letter has one purpose and one purpose only, to get a potential employer to turn the page and read the resume. It will not get you a job; it will not get you an interview. It will wet the company’s appetite to want to learn more about you.
An internet search for cover letters will lend itself to over 1,000,000 different results and offers, ranging from boiler plate, to creative, to having one written for you for a fee ($ 29.95 per letter, with a free re-write if you don’t get results within 90 days). Writing the letter doesn’t take a master’s degree in English. As long as a few key points are kept in mind during the process, your letter will be great.
Key Points:
1) KISS –Keep It Short & Sweet. The idea is to get them to read your resume, not to show off your creative writing skills (unless the job calls for Creative Writing).
2) Be specific about the job you’re applying for. And always personalize it to the company.
3) Past accomplishments = future success. Talk about the results that you’ve achieved, not so much the process. People want to hire winners, put yourself in that spotlight.
4) Write to a specific person. • This is where your research will pay off. • A letter that starts off To Whom It May Concern or Dear Sir\Madam, might be correct, but is cold and impersonal. • With the emphasis placed on building professional relationships, you need to know the person’s name and job title that is screening the applicants. • Make sure you get the name and title right or the letter and résumé goes into the circular file.
5) Use action words and be positive.
6) Only include salary information if it’s specifically requested.
7) Spelling and grammar ARE MORE IMPORTANT than formatting. Nobody will care what the letter looks like if it’s filled with mistakes.
8) ASK for an interviewNow, let us look at the hows of a cover letter. This document should be 3 to 4 paragraphs in length. Brevity, get to the point, make the point, is the key to effectiveness. And don’t be afraid to use bullet points to emphasize key points.
Paragraph 1: List the job you’re interested in and how you learned about the opportunity
Paragraph 2: This is the one called, “You seek, I have”. Your research will pay off here. You can talk about your specific skills and experiences that you have and relate it to the opening available. Don’t go overboard; KISS is crucial at this juncture.
Paragraph 3: State your interest in the opening, your availability for an interview and specifically ask for an opportunity to sit down, face to face. They can’t see the sincerity in your eyes or hear it in your voice from a piece of paper.
If you don’t hear from them within a week, send the letter again. In any office, papers are misplaced or not read when things are hopping. By sending it again, it will double the chances of somebody reading it. And follow up with a phone call, as this shows that you’re a go-getter, who is interested. If you do what others won’t, you’ll get the results they don't!
Or, a parent, relative, or family friend would bring you to work to “meet” the boss. After an exchange of pleasantries and a few simple questions (like how do you know so and so), you started work the next Monday.
But today, things are different. In the earlier cases, your appearance, interests, or relationships opened doors. Now, you need a professional introduction to the company, a way for them to see who you are, what you know, where you learned it, and how you use what you know. This is the purpose of a cover letter.
A well written cover letter has one purpose and one purpose only, to get a potential employer to turn the page and read the resume. It will not get you a job; it will not get you an interview. It will wet the company’s appetite to want to learn more about you.
An internet search for cover letters will lend itself to over 1,000,000 different results and offers, ranging from boiler plate, to creative, to having one written for you for a fee ($ 29.95 per letter, with a free re-write if you don’t get results within 90 days). Writing the letter doesn’t take a master’s degree in English. As long as a few key points are kept in mind during the process, your letter will be great.
Key Points:
1) KISS –Keep It Short & Sweet. The idea is to get them to read your resume, not to show off your creative writing skills (unless the job calls for Creative Writing).
2) Be specific about the job you’re applying for. And always personalize it to the company.
3) Past accomplishments = future success. Talk about the results that you’ve achieved, not so much the process. People want to hire winners, put yourself in that spotlight.
4) Write to a specific person. • This is where your research will pay off. • A letter that starts off To Whom It May Concern or Dear Sir\Madam, might be correct, but is cold and impersonal. • With the emphasis placed on building professional relationships, you need to know the person’s name and job title that is screening the applicants. • Make sure you get the name and title right or the letter and résumé goes into the circular file.
5) Use action words and be positive.
6) Only include salary information if it’s specifically requested.
7) Spelling and grammar ARE MORE IMPORTANT than formatting. Nobody will care what the letter looks like if it’s filled with mistakes.
8) ASK for an interviewNow, let us look at the hows of a cover letter. This document should be 3 to 4 paragraphs in length. Brevity, get to the point, make the point, is the key to effectiveness. And don’t be afraid to use bullet points to emphasize key points.
Paragraph 1: List the job you’re interested in and how you learned about the opportunity
Paragraph 2: This is the one called, “You seek, I have”. Your research will pay off here. You can talk about your specific skills and experiences that you have and relate it to the opening available. Don’t go overboard; KISS is crucial at this juncture.
Paragraph 3: State your interest in the opening, your availability for an interview and specifically ask for an opportunity to sit down, face to face. They can’t see the sincerity in your eyes or hear it in your voice from a piece of paper.
If you don’t hear from them within a week, send the letter again. In any office, papers are misplaced or not read when things are hopping. By sending it again, it will double the chances of somebody reading it. And follow up with a phone call, as this shows that you’re a go-getter, who is interested. If you do what others won’t, you’ll get the results they don't!
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