Professional Resumes

Telephone Interview Tips

2011-10-04T06:02:00.000-07:00

Looking for Telephone Interview Tips? I am glad that you are taking your phone interview this seriously. One of the biggest mistakes that many job candidates make regarding a phone interview is that they become complacent by the fact that they are not facing a panel interview, in person. Since you are NOT one of THOSE people, take a look at the telephone interview tips below:

Success Tips for Phone Interviews

Research the Company

Before sitting down for a telephonic interview do some solid company research. Check their background, the area of operation, their future plans and all other facets that affect you as a potential employee of the company.

Know Your Job

There is nothing annoying than appearing a phone interview and not knowing what position the discussion is all about. Before getting into a telephonic interview make sure you understand the job you have applied for. It can be really embarrassing to know that you have been discussing about a job for half an hour that you can never be interested in.

Be Professional, Add the Appointment to Calendar

Of all the phone interview tips you get here this is the one that you should be extra cautious about. Most candidates fail to realize that the phone interview is the real thing like a physical meeting, which in my opinion is a huge mistake. So please take your phone interview very seriously and add the appointment to your calendar. This will keep reminding you of the schedule and have you better prepared.

Who Should Call?

It is important that you are clear as to who will be the one calling. When the interview is scheduled and you hear that from the company’s representative, politely ask him if you should call at the stipulated time or they will be calling you. Usually the interviewer makes a call, but then it’s a good idea to make things very clear right from start.

Schedule the Interview Time Right

A phone interview need not necessarily happen at the interviewer’s convenience. You have an equal right to decide on the opportune time for yourself. If you feel that you have other engagements at the proposed time, then politely convey it to the representative of your prospective employer and request for a new date or time. You may even suggest some of the dates that you feel would be right for you.

Have a Professional Tone of Voice

In a phone interview, the interviewer can’t see you. They will form a picture of you in their mind based upon how you talk and present yourself through your voice. Thus be careful about your tone. Be friendly and professional. Make sure you don’t be mushy or rude.

Get Professionally Dressed

Most of the people I have come across ignore getting properly dressed for phone interviews and strictly speaking that is not mandatory as you will not be visible to the interviewer. However dressing properly gives that extra air of professionalism and makes you feel comfortable and confident. So please be dressed well for your phone interview.

Take Notes and Keep Notepaper Handy

Most telephonic interviews involve in depth discussions. So be prepared to take notes and refer them as needed. Keep a good pen, notepad, pencil and eraser handy at your desk. This simple trick will help you concentrate better and be more involved in the entire discussion.

Keep Your Resume Handy

Usually interviewers ask questions based on your resume. Most of those questions are on the past experience with other organizations. Therefore keep your resume ready for reference. When the interviewer asks a question related to a certain page of your resume you will be in a position to refer that page and answer.

Keep Your Cell Phone Charged

If you are using a mobile phone for the interview charge it fully. It will look very unprofessional if your mobile phone dies down during the interview.

Send Minutes of Meeting Mail

After the discussion is over and you have understood the action items from your side send an email thanking the interviewers for their time and the opportunity extended to you. In this email mention the action items that will be taken care of from your side and the ones that need to be addressed at the other end. Also highlight the important nuances of the discussion if you feel like it.

I hope these telephone interview tips will help you in the next interview scheduled for you. If you have any interesting phone interview tips then please feel free to write to us. We would love to hear from you.

Carla BostederBest-Interview-Strategies.com

Marketing Managers Need Cover Letters, too?

2011-09-29T15:13:00.000-07:00

Marketing Managers Need Cover Letters, too?

Well, yes. If they want to get jobs, that is.

A cover letter takes the best of your qualifications and characteristics and makes them exciting and enticing to prospective employers. It’s a carefully crafted letter that leads the employer to the resume to see why you are the best candidate for the job.

Competition for Marketing Managers is keen. You have to stand out from the crowd in a positive, exciting way to ensure you are the one employers are determined to hire.

How do you accomplish this?

If you have already written your resume, the words you need are basically prepared for you. It’s much easier to pull from the resume and reflect on your character when you have put the time in to document your professional personal history.

The cover letter builds on the resume and leads the employer toward it. Its goal is to get the employer excited about the resume. The cover letter is a sales tool, just like the resume is. Sell yourself in a compelling and exciting way. Inject energy and let your best qualities reach the employer through carefully written examples and anecdotes. Don’t just state what you are capable of, show the employer with vibrant language that attracts and invites the employer to want to know more.

Let your personality show, but remain professional.

Are there a lot of Marketing Manager positions available? Yes, there are probably a lot of positions you COULD get, but do you want just ANY old job? Or, do you want a job where you will have opportunities to succeed, make more money and send your career to new heights?

You have to be your very best to get the great jobs. What skills and abilities do you have that you can offer the employer – and – how can you do so in a way that makes the employer pick up the phone and call you for an interview?

Start with your own “marketing materials”. Your cover letter and your resume are your sales resources. Make them work for you.

The cover letter is the first thing an employer sees. Make sure it is impeccable. Proofread it just as meticulously as you did the resume. No mistakes. Not one.

State clearly what position you are seeking and tailor the cover letter, just as you did with the resume, to the specific position and employer.

Mass marketing general resumes and cover letters to a host of employers is a thing of the past. Targeting a resume and cover letter is essential in today’s competitive environment if you are to be successful.

Look at it this way: Your competition is doing it. If you don’t do it, too, who do you think is going to get the job interview and the job offer?

“Employment of advertising, marketing, promotions, public relations, and sales managers is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2012, spurred by intense domestic and global competition in products and services offered to consumers.”(Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Finding the perfect job in a great company will always take some work, but the rewards will be worthwhile if you take the time to work through the job search process right.

A good cover letter alone isn’t likely to persuade an employer to grant you an interview, but it is part of the whole package that WILL encourage an employer to want to get to know you better. Make it an exciting and enjoyable read and you will find yourself being offered the next Marketing Manager position you apply for.

Best of luck!

Written by Carla Vaughan-BostederBest-Interview-Strategies.com

Networking for a Job

2011-09-14T09:48:00.000-07:00

Networking can be a powerful thing; many term this the "hidden job market".

Networking is probably the best way to get a job in today's tough economy. Most of the jobs I hear of people getting are from people they know, not from ads they read or from websites they visit. The other thing is that we often think of networking as having to go to some strange meetings with people we don't know and meet/greet, trade business cards and hope we can work something out. That isn't it - although there is a place for that, too. Networking is mostly about keeping in touch with the people you already know. Just drop folks a note or give them a call. Do this regularly - before you need a job. Help them, too, if there is something they need. It works both ways. When the time is right, the people you know will be the ones to help you get your next job.

Here is an article to help with this, too: Networking for a job

It explains more about what networking is and how to keep in touch with people in a "real" kind of way.

Cover Letter Tips

2011-06-20T15:30:00.000-07:00

Why are cover letters so important? They provide the prospective employer with a brief review of your skills and abilities – but they are less formal than a resume. In fact, they may point to things that are in your resume or they may highlight qualities you posses that the resume just isn't able to convey.

The best news is that writing one it isn't that hard.

So, how do you write a great cover letter?

The cover letter builds on the resume and leads the employer toward it. Its goal is to get the employer excited about the resume. It is a sales tool, just like the resume is. Sell yourself in a compelling and exciting way. You know how to sell, so put it to good use by highlighting your accomplishments. The employer will naturally want to know more about what you have to offer.

Map out the information you want to place in each section, then go back through and fine tune it. Don't try to write brilliantly from the salutation to the signature in the first draft. Revise it each time you go through it.

What skills and abilities do you have that you can offer the employer – and – how can you do so in a way that makes the employer pick up the phone and call you for an interview? Oh, and that brings up the point that you need to make sure all of your contact information is included in the cover letter as well as on the resume. You never know when someone is going to lose one of those precious pieces of paper.

An outstanding cover letter is also tailored to the employer's needs. If the ad you read states that the employer is looking for someone with three years of managerial experience, then you need to include something in your cover letter that states you have managerial experience. If you do not have that much experience, show the employer how much you have learned and how quickly you learned it. Let the employer know that you are determined to be successful. This is especially important if you are still in school or have recently graduated from school.

A cover letter isn't likely to persuade an employer to grant you an interview on its own, but it is part of the whole package that WILL encourage an employer to want to get to know you better. Make it an exciting and enjoyable read and you will find yourself being offered the next Sales position for which you apply.

Read more about cover letters here: Cover Letters

How Does Your Work Experience Stack Up: A Resume Tip

2011-02-20T13:27:00.000-08:00

When an employer is looking at your resume, they are seeking answers to their questions. They want to know if what you have done in the past will meet the needs of their organization in the future. Everything in your resume needs to be evaluated with that in mind. Nothing should be put on your resume if it does not lead the employer to believe that you are the right person for the job.

When trying to decide what to put on your resume in the work experience section, ask yourself these questions:

How do my skills compare with what the job specifications are?
Will my experience translate well into the position I am seeking?
Can this achievement help the employer see my worth as a job candidate?
Does this responsibility reflect the quality of a good employee?

The idea is to highlight your skills and accomplishments so that they best fit with the job you are seeking. One thing that can be very helpful is injecting keywords that identify you as a confident, assertive worker. Using a word like "directed" is a lot different than "oversaw". Use strong, enthusiastic words to create a positive expectation in the mind of the employer.

Another thing to consider is that most job titles are specific to an industry. Unless you are targeting a job in your current industry, you need to make sure that your qualifications explain exactly what you did because your job title likely will not.

Mostly, just remember that what you put in the resume work experience section isn't supposed to look like a job description. It's designed to highlight your job qualifications in a way that excites the employer.

Use this section of the resume to emphasize your accomplishments, your skills and your abilities. Let the employer see just how awesome you are and why you are the best fit for the job.

Best of Luck!

Carla Vaughan-Bosteder, Owner/Webmaster Best-Interview-Strategies.com

Carla is the owner of Best-Interview-Strategies.com, a web site devoted to assisting candidates in the job-search process. She holds a B.S. in Business from Southern Illinois University and has authored several books.

Make a Great First Impression

2010-10-29T15:33:00.000-07:00

You have the qualifications, the motivation and the skills to succeed in your field. How do you let a prospective employer know how great you are, particularly on paper instead of in person?

First, here are some key ideas. If you are going get the job, the first step is to get noticed by the person skimming the cover letters and resumes. If you can't make it through the skimming phase you can't get the interview. Second, searching for a job is not that difficult – it just takes time, effort, and perseverance.

Follow the steps outlined here and you will be one step nearer to a job interview. You need to stand out but at the same time stay within the guidelines. After all, most prospective employers seek people that will fit within their corporate culture rather than mavericks who like to shake things up.

Why do we follow guidelines? When everybody agrees to a conventional way of doing things, the system works more efficiently (whether it is job search or driving on the same side of the road). Stick with the "rules" and it will be easy. Abandon them and you restrict yourself.

The two major causes for job search failure are:
1. Some people attempt to beat the system by doing things their own way (thereby disregarding the guidelines)
2. Others choose to take the easy way out and do the bare minimum. They don't set up their resumes using an appealing format that is easy to read.

Here are the guidelines that will help make that great first impression:

Be Thorough – Check your spelling and grammar. Read over your resume and cover letter and have someone else check it over. Typos will not make a good impression. Double check your contact information. Pay attention to everything you send out such as the spelling of the potential employer/hiring manager's name and address. When you think you are done, check it again.

Be prepared – You will need information to put your best foot forward. Here two things you need to know:

• First, you need to know YOURSELF. Why? You need to be able to identify your personal and professional character, your abilities, and your skills. In addition, you will need to relate these positive qualities to the workplace setting. You can apply this self knowledge when you create your resume and also in the interview to increase your likelihood of success.

• Second, you need to find information about the prospective employer/company and the position you are seeking. Find out about the company's size, their products and services, and who they serve. In addition, you want to know their "mission," their history and their future plans. It is also helpful to understand their market and their market position. This way you can target your application information to the company and the position you seek. This knowledge is invaluable when you prepare for the job interview.

Be yourself – Use your self knowledge to present your personal and professional skills on paper and in the interview. There is no need to stretch the truth or lie as this will hurt you in the long run.

Be ambitious – Do your best on everything do what it takes. You want the interview, right? Then be complete and as professional as possible. Focus on the things that matter such as the cover letter and resume. Make sure you get the call and not someone else.

Make your first impression count on paper and with advanced preparation you will have a great interview. Follow the steps outlined here so both your written and interview skills will stand out.

Follow the guidelines and be prepared so your job search will go smoothly.

For more information, please take a look at these articles:

'Suitable Attire'

'Interview Mistakes'

'Interview Thank You Letter'

'Telephone Interviews'

'Employee Selection Process'

'What You Need to Know About a Hiring Manager'

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Cover Letters for Nurses

2010-10-20T07:07:00.000-07:00

Cover Letters for Nurses

Why are cover letters so important? They provide the prospective employer with a brief review of your skills and abilities in the form of a letter. Letters are written much differently than resumes and can have a lasting impact on the reader.

The best news is that writing one it isn’t that hard. An excellent Registered Nurse is always going to be in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Among all of the health care occupations, registered nurses had the highest level of employment—over 2 million."

What does that mean? It means there are more nursing positions in the health care industry than doctors, surgeons and technologists.
Nurses, generally speaking, are in a good labor market right now. If you are a nurse, that's good news. You should not encounter difficulties in obtaining work.

What about that awesome position with the top salary that you have your eye on, though? Do you think the competition for that position will be greater? You bet it will. That means your credentials will have to be presented in the best light possible if you are to get the job offer.
So, how do you write a great cover letter?

The cover letter builds on the resume and leads the employer toward it. Its goal is to get the employer excited about the resume. It is a sales tool, just like the resume is. Sell yourself in a compelling and exciting way. Inject energy and let your best qualities reach the employer through carefully written examples and anecdotes. Don't just state what you are capable of, show the employer what you have done in the past with vibrant language that attracts and invites the employer to want to know more.
You are a part of a significant sector of the labor market.

You have to be your very best to get the great jobs. What skills and abilities do you have that you can offer the employer – and – how can you do so in a way that makes the employer pick up the phone and call you for an interview?

Be personable, but professional at the same time.

Let your cover letter generate interest in your resume, then let your resume grab the employer's attention so that you are invited in for a face to face meeting.

A cover letter isn't likely to persuade an employer to grant you an interview on it's own, but it is part of the whole package that WILL encourage an employer to want to get to know you better. Make it an exciting and enjoyable read and you will find yourself being offered the next Registered Nurse position you apply for.

To review a cover letter checklist, click here: Cover Letter Checklist
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Resume Tips

2010-10-18T14:48:00.000-07:00

Resume Tips:

• Good resumes show how your qualifications fit the requirements of the jobs you apply for.
• Most occupations require abilities like reliability, teamwork, and communication.
• Good resume objectives focus on the employer's needs.
• Nonwork activities add experience to your resume.
• Tailor your resume for each occupation or job of interest.
• Use action phrases— not complete sentences.
• Highlight specific achievements.
• Include quantifiable results where possible.
• Identify increases in responsibility.
• Mention special work related skills.
• Identify coursework relating to the employer’s needs.

More Tips:
• Chronological resumes organize your experience around the jobs you have held.
• Functional resumes emphasize skills rather than employment history.
• Sprinkle your resumes with language found in the position description.
• Use a laser printer and keep the font size at 10 points or above.
• Avoid mistakes by having several people proofread for you.

Even more Tips:
• Resumes can be formatted for scanning, e-mailing, or posting to Internet sites.
• Digital resumes use simple, technologically friendly formatting.
• Digital resumes emphasize keywords.
• Plain text resumes should not exceed 65 characters per line.
• E-mail a plain text resume to yourself and to a friend to test the way it transmits.

Source:
http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/employ/resumes/resumes.htm

Additional resume information:

'Plain Text Resumes'

'Resume Preparation'

'Job Application Form'

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Is it Important to Send a Cover Letter?

2010-10-14T10:33:00.000-07:00

While many employers require cover letters from prospective jobseekers, some do not specify what their requirements are. This leaves the jobseeker with the classic dilemma, whether or not to send a cover letter.

Writing a good cover letter takes time and effort. A mistake on the cover letter such as a spelling error could prove fatal to the jobseeker's chances. However, in general it is advisable to send one even if the employer doesn't require it.

Most employers are looking for good employees who are interested in doing the tasks provided to them, and who will stay with the company for a while. Even if a resume perfectly matches the job description, a resume says nothing about how the jobseeker feels about that company in particular.

A cover letter is a great tool to help the jobseeker stand out from the crowd and show the employer that he is interested and excited about working there. The employer will know that the jobseeker has taken the time to put together a cover letter, and that implies that he really wants the job and will accept if it is offered.

A cover letter is always a great idea, but caution should be taken in making sure the format is acceptable and the spelling and grammar are correct. There are few better ways to distinguish a qualified jobseeker from the crowd than a fantastic cover letter.

To learn more about cover letters, consider the following articles:

'Cover Letter Guideline'

'Cover Letter Checklist'

'The Power of a Good Cover Letter'

'Cover Letter Tips'

'A Great Cover Letter'

'Ten Cover Letter Tips'

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Tips for career changers: Federal Jobs

2010-09-23T13:49:00.000-07:00

Are you a career changer?

If you are an experienced worker looking for a Federal job, you are in good company. More than 40 percent of the people hired by the Federal Government last year were experienced workers over the age of 35. These tips will help you to get credit for your expertise.

• Estimate your GS level. As mentioned in this article, the Federal Government classifies positions according to the complexity of their job duties and their level of responsibility. People qualify for a given level based on education, experience, or a combination of both. The most common classification system is the General Schedule (GS). To find your GS level, use the table on page 6 to estimate the level you qualify for based on education alone. If you also have relevant experience, your GS level will be higher than that. If you have had relevant managerial responsibilities or do complex work independently, you might qualify for a GS-12 or above. To be certain, read the job descriptions in vacancy announcements.

• Understand job requirements. Vacancy announcements often say that a worker needs experience equivalent to a particular GS level. A vacancy announcement at the GS-12 level, for example, might say that you need 1 year of experience at the GS-11 level. Some announcements give examples of what that experience could be. Others don't. The simplest way to know if you qualify for a job is to read the job duties. If the work described there is only slightly more complex or responsible than work you have done in the past, you might be eligible for the position.

If some of the required experience for a job seems unique to the Federal Government, explore further by calling the agency or the contact person for the position. You might learn that your private-sector experience meets the requirement.

• Be flexible about titles. If you want to be a manager or supervisor, do not limit yourself to openings with those words in the job title. Jobs with widely varying levels of responsibility are often listed under the same title.

• Be specific about past experience. Human resources managers will study the details of your application to decide if you qualify for a job. They will compare your past work to the kinds of tasks performed at different GS levels. Managers will pay close attention to the amount of time you spent in each job. They usually will estimate exactly how many months or years you have done each major job task.

When creating a resume or writing statements about your skills, show your level of expertise by explaining who you reported to or worked with and how your work was used.

• Explain past job titles. Use job titles that clearly describe what you did. You may want to put the equivalent Federal title in parentheses next to your actual job titles.

• Consider Senior Executive Service. Finally, if you have substantial experience in high-level leadership positions, you might qualify for the Senior Executive Service (SES). SES positions require you to answer a set of standard questions about your leadership ability. A review board established by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management will certify your qualifications based on your answers and your experience. For more information, see www.opm.gov/ses or call (202) 606-1800

http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/employ/govtjob/fedjob.htm#tips

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A Successful Job Interview

2010-09-10T12:28:00.000-07:00

A successful job interview

Career counselors say a successful job interview starts well before the jobseeker and interviewer meet. Preparation can be as important as the interview itself. Researching, practicing, and dressing appropriately are the first steps to making the most of a job interview.

This post focuses on research.

One of the best, but most frequently overlooked, ways to demonstrate enthusiasm for a job is to research both the company and the position for which you are being interviewed. Employers say they are impressed by well-informed jobseekers.

Before arriving for an interview, you should know what the company does, how large it is, any recent changes it has undergone, and what role you could play in its organization. Try to learn about the company's goals and values. With these facts, you can show how your qualifications match the company's needs.

The company itself is often the easiest place to start your search. Many businesses fill their websites with information tailored to jobseekers. These sites often include a history of the company and a description of its products and customers. And many companies' human resources departments will send recruiting information if you request it.

Public libraries and career centers also have valuable information about employers, including companies' annual reports to shareholders, reports kept by local chambers of commerce, trade journals, and business indexes, such as Hoover's Business Index and Dun and Bradstreet.

To read more about Company Research, go here: Research the Company

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Why is it Important to Prepare for an Interview?

2010-09-09T09:35:00.000-07:00

The Job Interview: Wing it? Prepare for it?

A lot of us tend to think that interviews are just a formality. A substantial number of interviewees also feel that the recruiters ask the same questions in every interview and hence, they do not need to prepare for interview. However, the reality is that a most of the interviewers are not looking for your answers, they are looking for your confidence level and consistency through your answers. Therefore, you need to be very confident and consistent in your interview.

Preparing for an interview is more important when you are sitting for a HR interview in contrast to a technical interview. If you have studied your subject well you will most certainly get through a technical interview. However, HR interviews are more focused upon testing your attitude rather than you knowledge and unless you have done some rehearsal for your answers, you might get deviated and lose the interviewers.

The best way to prepare for an interview is to make a list of commonly asked questions in an interview and prepare your answers for it. Try to be as honest as possible. Do not try to furnish false information to impress the interviewers as it can backfire. Always remember the people sitting in the interviewer chair have seen as lot of interviewees and they are looking for an additional spark in you.

Just be confident and consistent in your answer. Stick to your position, even when they try to confuse you as it is just a strategy they might be using to judge your consistency. A little preparation and a little caution is your key to success in any interview.

For additional information on job interviews, follow this link: Top 10 Interview Questions

Interview Questions

2010-09-08T11:20:00.000-07:00

What You Need to Know About Interview Questions

The interview is a sales meeting and you are both the salesperson and the product. The basic question in every interview, whether it is asked or not, is "Why should I hire you?" All other questions center on this one issue. Basic interview questions can take a variety of forms. Generally, questions will ask about you, your qualifications, experience, skills and motivation. If you have prepared for the interview and are confident about your qualifications, none of these questions should be difficult.

Listen carefully to each question asked in the interview. Take your time in responding and make sure your answers are positive. Express a good attitude and show that you are willing to work, eager to learn, and are flex¬ible. If you are unsure of a question, do not be afraid to ask for clarification. Sometimes a good strategy is to close a response with a question for the interviewer. If you have researched the company beforehand, you will be better informed and able to ask more in-depth questions.

Focus on your qualifications but also look for opportunities to personalize the interview. There is nothing wrong with injecting some personal insight into your life. However, do not get too personal or dwell too long on non-job related topics. Show your potential to the company. Support your answers with examples from your experience. Avoid "yes" or "no" responses to questions.

Use caution if you are questioned about your salary requirements. Try to avoid the question until you have been offered a job. If that isn't possible, turn the question back to the interviewer and ask what salary range the position falls in, or what others in similar positions are being paid.

The interview is not over when you are asked if you have any questions. Come prepared to ask a couple of specific questions that again show your knowledge and interest in the job.

Source:
http://jobs.utah.gov/jobseeker/guides/07_34.pdf

Click here for more information about Answering Interview Questions.

Teen Interview Tips

2010-08-30T13:49:00.000-07:00

Teen Interview Tips

How to Prepare for Your interview

First and foremost - Have a neat appearance and be on time!

You will probably have an interview of some sort. It may
be a formal interview with a specific list of questions you
must answer, or it may be a friendly get-to-know-you
conversation. Whatever the setting, consider it a part of
the screening process and take it seriously. One suggestion
is to dress one step above what you would typically
wear on the job.

Appropriate dress:
No hats, jeans, or T-shirts
Check buttons and zippers
Dress simply and in good taste, no fads
Clean, wrinkle-free clothes, polished shoes
Clothes in good repair
No sunglasses
Cover body jewelry and tattoos

Good Grooming:
Hair clean and neatly combed/brushed
No body odor
Brushed teeth
Clean shaven for males
Makeup not overdone
Clean nails and hands
No gum chewing

Good Posture:
Sit up straight
Pleasant expression
Be alert
Act interested

Be Hardworking

Go the Extra Mile &
Make your Future Boss Smile!

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Do Teenagers Need Resumes?

2010-06-21T10:30:00.000-07:00

Absolutely. Teenagers need resumes.

With the economy in a downturn, searching for a good job has gotten more competitive than ever. Some people may feel that teenagers who don't have any working experience do not need a resume to apply for a job. There are several reasons why this assumption is incorrect.

First of all, the United States just experienced an economic downturn in which many industries shed jobs. Relatively unskilled adults who once held jobs are now out of the job and searching in the same pool of unskilled jobs as teenagers will be. These adults will be equipped with more experience, a resume, and possibly recommendations from previous employers. When competing against these adults teenagers want to look as professional as possible, and providing employers with a formal resume is the best way to do that.

Secondly, a resume is not only useful for describing previous job experience, but also for exhibiting personal skills and talents. Teenagers can list their activities there, attributes that make them a strong candidate for the job, information on their schooling and their grade point average. This gives the employer plenty of information about the teenager so they can judge if the job is the best fit.

Without a resume, the employer will have no knowledge of the teenager's past experience or talents, and won't be able to compare him to other candidates.

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Job Skills Identification

2010-05-17T10:19:00.000-07:00

Job Content Skills
Job content skills are those skills specific to a job or occupation. A secre¬tary is skilled in typing, word processing, answering telephones, company correspondence, and filing. An accoun¬tant would list accounts receivable, performing accounts payable, payroll, figuring taxes, using a 10-key adding machine, and computer accounting programs. A salesperson would include customer service, record keeping, order processing, inventory management, billing, and product displays. Job content skills are important to employers for obvious reasons. These are the specific skills they are looking for in a candidate to accomplish the duties of the job. Job skills do not always come from employment. Along with the skills you used in previous jobs, you may have developed job skills through education, hobbies, community activities, and life experiences. Common activities such as shopping, managing finances, balancing a bank account, hosting a party, and teaching a child all contain potential job skills.

Self-Management Skills
Sometimes called "personality traits," these self-management skills are the skills you use day-by-day to get along with others and to survive. They are the skills that make you unique. Sincerity, reliability, tactfulness, patience, flexibility, timeliness, or tolerance are examples of self-management skills. Employers look for these skills in candidates as evidence of how they will "fit" into the organization. How a person will "fit in" is an important consideration for employers.

Transferable Skills
These are skills that can transfer from one job or occupation to another. They may be either self-management or job content skills, and may or may not have been developed through previous employment. For most job seekers it is very unlikely that they will find a job that is identical to their previous employment. For many today, that new job will be totally different from their past experience. Therefore, it is critical for successful job seekers to carefully evaluate how their skills transfer into other opportu¬nities. It is also important to look for ways to express this transferability to a prospective employer.

Duties
Many people have trouble distinguishing between their skills and duties. Duties are the basic functions of an activity. Skills are the tools used to accomplish these functions. Duties or functions are a part of any organized activity, whether it is employment, volunteer work, or hobbies. A simple example is the management of a lemonade stand. The basic duties of a lemonade stand owner might be to manage lemonade operations including production, marketing, distribution and finances. There are many skills needed to accomplish these functions including: mixing, measuring, planning, sales, customer service, writing, cash handling, record keeping, maintenance, timeliness, dependability, accuracy and motivation. A complete list of skills would be very long. Writing out the duties or functions of an activity first can be a useful way to begin identifying skills. When presenting your skills to an employer, it is best to tie them to specific activities in which they were used. It is not enough to tell the employer your skills; you need to be prepared to tell where, when, and how you used those skills.

http://jobs.utah.gov/jobseeker/guides/07_28.pdf

Brought to you by: Professional-Job-Search.com

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How Can you Handle Job Search Stress?

2010-05-03T05:37:00.000-07:00

Job Search Stress

Stress is an inevitable part of searching for a job, whether you are a teenager looking to make some extra cash, someone who recently lost a job, or a recent college graduate trying to pay back their loans and get on their feet. Fortunately, there are ways to manage stress effectively.

The most important thing is to stay organized. Treating the job search like an important project, by maintaining action item lists, files and keeping up with correspondence, is the best way to feel a sense of control over the project and reduce stress. Knowing that everything that can be done from your end is finished and under control takes the panic out of the process.

Secondly, make sure to not tie your self-worth to your ability to find a job right away and have a back-up plan. It is a tough time for everyone to find jobs, and it is unlikely that you will find the perfect job for you right away. Be willing to accept a slightly less appealing job that you can do while you wait to hear back from employers you are interested in.

These simple steps can greatly reduce your stress and make searching for a job an exciting opportunity, not a hassle.

Brought to you by: Professional-Job-Search.com

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Write an Interview Thank You Letter

2010-04-27T07:53:00.000-07:00

Why is it Important to Write an Interview Thank You Letter?

If you are qualified for a particular job but there is a stiff competition between you and your closest contender, even small things can matter. It is often seen that interviewers are not looking just for qualifications and intelligence, they are also looking for the right attitude in the job candidates. This manifests in the way they approach to a problem or even in the way the enter the office of interviewers.

There are a lot of things people tend to forget when they sit for an interview, especially things that are non-technical and do not have a direct relation to their job profiles or the employer profile. However, even simple things such as the etiquette of writing a thank you letter can make a huge difference when it comes to stiff competition between your and your competitors.

Writing an interview thank you letter is a means of telling the interviewers that you are thankful for the opportunity. It also tells the interviewer that you are polite and diligent. It not just conveys the fact that you are not overconfident that you will the job, but also suggests that are looking forward to associating with the firm.

A thank you letter can also be a means of communicating your skills in a more subtle way in addition to making yet another good impression. So next time when you sit for interview make sure you write a thank you letter and increase the chances of your selection.

Brought to you by: Professional-Job-Search.com

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How can Social Networking Help You Find a Job?

2010-04-26T13:19:00.000-07:00

How can Social Networking Help You Find a Job?

Who says job opportunities rest in news papers? Not anymore for sure. You can find a job right from your home, without having to run from pillar to post looking for opportunities. All you need to know is a little bit of surfing and a little bit of social networking.

Social networking is basically a group of people with similar ideas, who come together and share their views on a particular topic through a public forum. For instance, if you have interest in share market, you can join a public forum on share market or finance market and meet up with other people, who share the passion in the field. Social networking can start from basic forums such as Facebook as well.

In the course of discussions, you can also communicate the fact that you are looking for a job in a particular sector - and since the forum is full of people who are in the field - there is a high possibility of someone or other looking for the perfect job candidate like you for their business.

Another option you have is to apply for part time work with some projects posted to the group and if you are successful in making an impression on the requester for such project, there are high chances of your being considered for the next job opportunity with his or her firm.

How can Social Networking Help You Find a Job?

Social networking is not just for fun, it can actually help you change your life for good.

Brought to you by:
Professional-Resume-Example.com

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Combination Resume Format

2010-04-07T10:22:00.000-07:00

Is the Combination Resume Format For You?

No two jobs are created alike, so no two resumes will likely be the same, either. Be sure to target your resume to the specific position you are seeking, too. State your job intent clearly in the Objective section, then follow through with every statement on the resume geared toward the position you are seeking.

Choosing the style of your resume is certainly important. As with any resume format, you have to make the best first impression possible. Just be sure it allows for you to accomplish what you need to.

You get – maybe – 30 seconds to make a good impression with your resume, right?. If you do not capture the attention of the reader FAST, you won’t catch it at all. A first impression is made very quickly.

Using the combination format, you have the ability to disguise certain parts of your personal history that you don’t want highlighted. You have a multitude of options to place the focus where you want it or shift the focus away from something that isn’t quite as vital (but still needs to be listed on the resume).

When designing your resume, be sure to clearly identify what each section is in regards to so that the hiring manager can identify pertinent information readily. He or she will want to hone in on information that is applicable to the particular position they have open.

Typically, most people who use this format detail their skills and achievements first, and then list their employment history and education in reverse chronological order.

Just be sure that you are speaking to the employer's needs and not your own. How does your resume convey your desire to work hard and succeed? You have to use Keywords to stand out and show that you are a person of ACTION.

Give employers what they want: Results in a format that is easy to read and makes an impact.

Good luck!

Carla Vaughan

Click here for more information on Resume Formats:

Resume Formats

Carla Vaughan is the owner of Professional-Resume-Example.com, a web site devoted to assisting candidates in the job-search process. She holds a B.S. in Business from Southern Illinois University and is working on her Master's degree in Education at Texas A&M University.

Objective statement.

2010-03-08T07:33:00.000-08:00

The Resume Objective Statement

Placed immediately below your contact information, the objective statement tells the reviewer what kind of position you want— for example, "Seeking a position as an administrative assistant." Some objectives include more detail, such as “Seeking an administrative position using my organizational, word processing, and customer service skills."

Objective statements are optional and are most often used by recent graduates and career changers. "I like to see an objective on a résumé because it shows focus," says Jannette Beamon of Dell Computers’ Central Staffing Division in Round Rock, Texas.

But writing objectives can be tricky. A vague statement, such as "Seeking a position that uses my skills and experience," is meaningless. And an overly specific objective can backfire, eliminating you from jobs you want that are slightly different from your objective. If you decide to include an objective statement, make sure it fits the job you are applying for. "Tailoring is expected,” says Beamon. "A statement should show that you know the type of work the company does and the type of position it needs to fill."

This information from:
http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/employ/resumes/resumes.htm

For more information about resumes, cover letters and such, this is your link: Job Search Documents

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Job Fairs/Career Fairs

2010-03-01T09:10:00.000-08:00

Job fairs, like interviews, are face-to-face meetings between jobseekers and employers. They are one of the easiest places to find good job leads. Every employer attending is there to hire one or more workers.
At a fair, jobseekers gather information about a company to help them decide if they want to apply for a job. Recruiters staff booths and answer questions, distribute brochures, accept resumes, and size up jobseekers.

Making a good impression at a job fair may give your resume or application added weight. The following tips can help you make the most of any fair.

Find the fair. Career centers, associations, State and local governments, and private companies organize job fairs. Find the fairs in your area by looking everywhere they might be announced. Ask a career counselor, review the business bulletin board at your school or local library, check the employment section of the newspaper, and search online via an Internet job fair locator.

Ready your resume. Before attending a fair, you should prepare a resume. Bring several copies to the fair. Leave at least one with every company that seems promising.

A resume lists your name, contact information, education, and experience, both paid and unpaid. It emphasizes accomplishments and skills. Most resumes for entry-level jobs are one page.

Dress neatly. A job fair is like a series of mini-interviews, with recruiters forming impressions of the people they meet. You might not need to wear a suit, but clothes that are too casual could be a strike against you. Clothes that are too short, too tight, too worn, or too playful are particularly risky. If you are unsure about what to wear, ask a career counselor or someone from the organization sponsoring the fair.

Go alone. Leave children and other relatives at home. If you plan to attend the fair with a friend, don't appear to be inseparable when visiting booths. A professional image is easier to maintain if you speak to employers alone.

Survey the terrain and plot a strategy. When you arrive, take a quick walk through the fair. Time is limited, and booths are crowded. Plan a route before stopping at booths to see your favorite companies. Save visits with the best prospects until after you've warmed up with a few other employers.

To make the best use of your time, ask for a list of participating companies a few days before the fair, and rank visits before you arrive.

Complete applications flawlessly. When a company distributes application forms, take two. Once will be a rough draft. If you bring an application home to send late, consider adding a note saying you met the recruiter at the fair.

Master the mini-interview. Every time you speak with an employer, no matter how briefly or how boisterous the atmosphere, consider it an interview. Recruiters will expect you to introduce yourself, shake hands confidently, answer questions about your coursework or experience, and have an idea of the type of job you want.

Finding out about the company is equally important. You might ask what the hiring process is like or what jobs are available for people with your education.
Before you leave the booth, be sure to ask for the recruiter's business card.

Take notes. After visiting several booths, it's easy for conversations to run together, leaving any jobseeker muddle-headed. After each visit, take a few notes to read at home.

Stay organized. Fairgoers are deluged with paper-company literature, recruiters' business cards, applications, and their own notes. Bring a briefcase, an expandable folder, or a canvas bag to keep materials organized. Counselors suggest going through these papers while your memory is still fresh.

http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/employ/employ-interview/fair.htm

Here's more information about: Career Fairs

Job Application Forms

2010-02-22T11:26:00.000-08:00

Applications: Fitting yourself to the form

Many jobs require jobseekers to complete an application instead of submitting a résumé. But an application is a résumé in disguise: Its purpose is to show your qualifications.

Assembling the following information about yourself in advance will make it easier to complete applications:

• Identification. Be prepared to give your name, address, phone number, and social security number. You may also need to bring proof of identification when you pick up and drop off the application.

• Employment history. List the month and year you started and ended each job; your supervisor's name, address, and phone number; your job title, location, salary, and major duties; and your reason for leaving.

• Education and certification. Know the name and city of the schools you attended and the year you received your degrees and the name, level, and award and renewal dates of certification.

• Special skills. List any special skills you have that are closely related to the job, such as computer applications, typing speed, or equipment operation.

• References. Provide the names, phone numbers, and addresses of three or four people who have agreed to recommend you.

When you pick up an application, don’t miss an opportunity to make a good first impression. Dress as you would for the job. Politely request two copies of the form, or make your own copies of the original before you start filling it out. Read the entire application before you begin. Then, use one copy as a rough draft and the other as the final product. Use a typewriter or write neatly with black ink.

Answer every question on the application. Write "not applicable" or "none" if a question does not apply to you. Some reviewers suggest answering "will discuss in interview" if asked for information that might disqualify you.

Make a copy of your completed application. If you go back for an interview, take this record with you. Having a completed form will also make it easier to fill out the next one.

Although forms do not offer the same flexibility as a résumé, you can still find ways to highlight your best qualifications. For example, you can use strong action verbs to describe your duties. If you do not have paid experience, you can give job titles to your volunteer work or list relevant academic experience, substituting student for job titles.

Computer applications. If you are filling out an application for a computer database, you will want to use keywords and simple formatting— no boldface or bullets. Put the most important information first. Include as much information as you can for each question without becoming wordy or repetitive. The more relevant details you provide, the better your chances of using a keyword that matches an employer's requirements. Before submitting the form, copy and paste your answers into a word- processing program so you can check the spelling.

Information gathered from:
http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/employ/resumes/resumes.htm

Brought to you by: Professional Job Search

Cover Letters for Sales Representatives

2010-02-15T12:56:00.000-08:00

Why are cover letters so important? They provide the prospective employer with a brief review of your skills and abilities in the form of a letter. These types of letters are written much differently than resumes and can have a strong impact on the reader.

The best news is that writing one it isn't that hard. An excellent Sales Representative is always going to be in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for Sales Reps through 2014 will grow somewhere between 9 and 14% per year.

What does that mean? It means there will be continued growth in the field. If you are good at selling, you should not encounter difficulties in obtaining work.
What about that awesome position with the top salary that you have your eye on, though? Do you think the competition for that position will be greater? You bet it will. That means your credentials will have to be presented in the best light possible if you are to get the job offer.

So, how do you write a great cover letter?

The cover letter builds on the resume and leads the employer toward it. Its goal is to get the employer excited about the resume. It is a sales tool, just like the resume is. Sell yourself in a compelling and exciting way. You know how to sell, so put it to good use by highlighting your accomplishments. The employer will naturally want to know more about what you have to offer.

Something else you must consider is how to inject energy in your cover letter. Most hiring managers are looking for sales representatives who offer enthusiasm, determination and vigor. Why? If a job candidate brings all of that into a cover letter (and a resume), then it leads the employer to believe that the candidate will be like that in person (and on the job).

What makes the best impression on employers? The wise use of accomplishments with anecdotes will win over a hiring manager much faster than simply stating what you did and who you worked for. Let your best qualities reach the employer through carefully written examples and stories. Don't just state what you are capable of, show the employer what you have done in the past with vibrant language that attracts and invites the employer to want to know more. Whenever possible, quantify your results using verifiable sales data from your past record. Numbers take on a new meaning when mixed in with your accomplishments.

You are a part of a significant sector of the labor market. You have to be your very best to get the great jobs. What skills and abilities do you have that you can offer the employer – and – how can you do so in a way that makes the employer pick up the phone and call you for an interview?

Let your cover letter generate interest in your resume, then let your resume grab the employer's attention so that you are invited in for a face to face meeting.
A cover letter isn't likely to persuade an employer to grant you an interview on its own, but it is part of the whole package that WILL encourage an employer to want to get to know you better. Make it an exciting and enjoyable read and you will find yourself being offered the next Sales position you apply for.

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Interview Tips

2010-02-09T13:39:00.000-08:00

Are you ready for these Interview Tips?

An employment interview is simply a meeting between you and a potential employer to discuss your qualifications and see if there is a "fit." The employer wants to verify what they know about you and talk about your qualifications. If you have been called for an interview, you can assume that the employer is interested in you. The employer has a need that you may be able to meet. It is your goal to identify that need and convince the employer that you are the one for the job and that you can add value to their bottom line.

Preparation is the key to success in a calculated job search campaign. Preparation will help win the interview and will improve interview success. Begin by gathering all the information and documents you may need for the interview. Bring extra copies of your resume, a typed list of references and letter(s) of recommendation. You may also want to bring school transcripts, licenses and certifications. Work samples are also powerful tools (e.g., designs, drawings, writ¬ings). Finally, bring a pen and pad of paper for taking notes.

•Maintain good eye contact throughout the interview.
•Do not be a clock watcher.
•Do not discuss illegal or discriminatory subjects such as race, religion, age, national origin, equal rights or gender.
•Dress a step above what you would wear on the job.
•Be aware of nonverbal body language; do not:
-put your hands in your pockets
-chew a pencil or other object
-clench or wring your hands
-tap a pen or pencil
-fiddle with jewelry
-jingle keys or coins in your pocket

http://jobs.utah.gov/jobseeker/guides/07_34.pdf

Interview Tips

Brought to you by: Professional-Job-Search.com

How to Write a Resume - Resume Guidelines

2010-02-04T12:12:00.000-08:00

How to Write a Resume - Resume Guidelines

Contact Information
The header of your résumé should include your name, address, phone number, and email address, if you regularly use it. When submitting a paper version of your résumé, it is visually appealing to use a large font for your name. Include both a local and permanent address and a phone number so that an employer can easily reach you. This is especially important for graduating students.

Job Objective
Although optional, a job objective statement shows employers the direction you want to go, your work preferences, and serves as a focal point for employers to review and analyze your résumé. It allows employers to immediately identify the kind of position you want. If you are looking for jobs in a number of different fields, you need to have a different job objective for each position. To address this, prepare some résumés without objective statements. Or tailor each résumé to the specific job you seek. Do not write an objective that is vague and meaningless-if is isn't specific, don't include one. It may contain up to four parts:

The level of the position. This can be anything from an internship, to full time, entry level, experienced, supervisory, or executive.

Skills you hope to bring to the position. Look to the list of action verbs included in this toolkit to identify which skills you have experience using.

Position. If you are responding to a job listing, look in the text of the listing to find out what the employer calls the position. This is the actual title, such as consultant, investment banker or field or industry in which you hope to work. Such as telecommunications, health care, and banking.

Education
In this section, include any information about your degree(s), including where and when you graduated; date(s); major, minor, or concentration; certification; and academic awards and honors. Make sure you use the official names for schools, degrees and majors/minors.

Include all honors, special awards, and recognitions. While commonly known awards, such as Phi Beta Kappa, do not need an explanation, less known awards should be briefly explained.

Include your GPA if it is an asset. If your GPA is not strong, focus your résumé on non-academic strengths and skills. A general rule of thumb is that if your GPA is a 3.0 or higher, include it. If the GPA for your major is strong, you can just put that down but make sure you specify that it is only for classes in your major.

If you are calculating a major GPA, make sure that if employers ask for your transcript, they will be able to follow your calculations. If not, they will assume you falsified your résumé! GPA is calculated as follows: 3.15 can be rounded up to 3.2. However, 3.14 cannot be rounded up. If you do not have a lot of relevant experience for the position you are applying for, it is a good idea to list courses and class projects of interest to the employer.

Employment History
The way you structure the "experience" section will depend on what you are looking for and what you have done. This section lists in chronological order the positions you have help, names and locations of employers, and dates employed. You should also list responsibilities, achievements, significant contributions and demonstrated skills.

Try to describe your experience in the most interesting and brief way possible. However, don't sacrifice clarifying details about important accomplishments for the sake of brevity. Remember to use active verbs to describe your work experience. Be hard on yourself, and, if necessary, discard "good" material that will have no meaning for an employer. To assist you in writing this section, refer to the list of action words in this toolkit.

Descriptions such as "responsibilities included developing course material" can be phrased more persuasively as "developed course materials." Descriptions do not need to be phrased in full sentences. The questions in an employer's mind are "Why should I speak with this person? How are they different from all the other applicants?" Try to answer these questions in each of your descriptions.

You should also include independent study or volunteer work if it is relevant to the job you want and provided you with significant skills and experiences. If you do include your volunteer work, do not describe if under a heading which implies you were paid.

In some instances, you may want to divide your experience into sub-sections. For example, if you are seeking a teaching job, and have both a teaching and business background, two separate headings-one "Teaching Experience" and "Additional Experience" may have more impact than a single heading.

Skills and Abilities
This is the place to put important and/or interesting information that does not fit anywhere else. With the advance of technology, it is increasingly important to include a section on computer skills. This should include any of your knowledge of computer programs, hardware, software, database knowledge, and/or Internet functions. If you have any other notable skills, such as foreign languages, musical talents, or writing skills include these here.

Activities and Honors
If you have received any awards or honors, or been involved in campus or community organizations, such as athletics, clubs or student government, you should mention them in this section. Identify any leadership roles that you had in these organizations. If you have too many organizations to list, choose the ones that have the strongest connection to the type of job you seek, don't pad this section with organizations you joined "in name only." Employers may ask you about your involvement during an interview.

References
Simply indicate that references are "available upon request" in a paper version of your résumé. You should know at least 3 people who can serve as your references. Ask in advance for permission to use them as references. Use faculty and employers as references, not personal acquaintances. Do not include their names, address, or phone numbers on the résumé. You may send a separate sheet with this information along with your résumé, or wait until the employer requests references.

http://www.wa.gov/esd/guides/resume/write/write_components.htm

Brought to you by: Professional Job Search.com

100 Best Companies to Work For

2010-01-21T10:04:00.000-08:00

How high do you set your sights when it comes to finding a great job?

Rank Company

1 SAS
2 Edward Jones
3 Wegmans Food Markets
4 Google
5 Nugget Market
6 DreamWorks Animation SKG
7 NetApp
8 Boston Consulting Group
9 Qualcomm
10 Camden Property Trust
11 Robert W. Baird & Co.
12 Bingham McCutchen
13 W. L. Gore & Associates
14 Recreational Equipment
15 Zappos.com
16 Cisco
17 Methodist Hospital System
18 Whole Foods Market
19 Genentech
20 Devon Energy
21 NuStar Energy
22 Johnson Financial Group
23 Umpqua Bank
24 Goldman Sachs Group
25 Novo Nordisk
26 CHG Healthcare Services
27 Scottrade
28 JM Family Enterprises
29 Quicken Loans
30 Alston & Bird
31 PCL Construction Enterprises
32 Baptist Health South Florida
33 Shared Technologies
34 Chesapeake Energy
35 American Fidelity Assurance Co.
36 Container Store
37 Aflac
38 Scooter Store
39 TDIndustries
40 Scripps Health
41 QuikTrip
42 Adobe Systems
43 Salesforce.com
44 Ernst & Young
45 USAA
46 OhioHealth
47 J. M. Smucker
48 FactSet Research Systems
49 Mercedes-Benz USA
50 King's Daughters Medical Center
51 Microsoft
52 Booz Allen Hamilton
53 Nordstrom
54 Paychex
55 Mayo Clinic
56 CarMax
57 DPR Construction
58 Four Seasons Hotels
59 Monsanto
60 Indiana Regional Medical Center
61 Brocade Communications Systems
62 Kimley-Horn
63 Southern Ohio Medical Center
64 Stew Leonard's
65 Arnold & Porter
66 Plante & Moran
67 EOG Resources
68 Men's Wearhouse
69 MITRE
70 Deloitte
71 PricewaterhouseCoopers
72 McCormick and Company
73 American Express
74 Children's Healthcare of Atlanta
75 Perkins Coie
76 Balfour Beatty Construction
77 Baker Donelson
78 Mattel
79 Meridian Health
80 Build-A-Bear Workshop
81 Atlantic Health
82 Marriott International
83 S. C. Johnson & Son
84 Accenture
85 Arkansas Children's Hospital
86 Publix Super Markets
87 National Instruments
88 KPMG
89 Bright Horizons
90 General Mills
91 FedEx
92 Gilbane
93 Starbucks Coffee
94 Intuit
95 Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe
96 LifeBridge Health
97 Herman Miller
98 Intel
99 Winchester Hospital
100 Colgate-Palmolive

From the Feb. 8, 2010 issue

Notes:
U.S. employees includes part-timers as of time of survey. Job growth, new jobs, and voluntary turnover are full-time only. All data based on U.S. employees.

Full report here: http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/bestcompanies/2010/full_list/

Brought to you by: Professional-Job-Search.com

Does the Employer Know What You Are Capable Of Achieving?

2010-01-11T14:58:00.001-08:00

When you write your resume and cover letter – and even during an interview – expressing your achievements is extremely important. The employer needs to know that you handled more than a variety of responsibilities. Don't be shy here. This helps the employer not only see what you have accomplished in the past, but also what you are willing to do to get a job done.

Why do employers place such an emphasis on accomplishments? Think of it this way: Many people can perform tasks. How many of them look for improve their own work environment? How many attempt to help their boss succeed? The person who goes above and beyond the "call of duty" is the one that employers are especially looking for. Communicating your accomplishments to an employer goes beyond simply stating what skills you have.

It shows the employer HOW WELL you utilize the skills and abilities you have.

For instance, let's pretend that you are an automotive mechanic. You diagnose and repair engines using computer diagnostics. But say you also focus extra time and energy on mastering the ability to repair ingnition problems. You may have even won an award at your last job for doing just that. The employer wants to know what you have done that goes above and beyond what is normally expected of you.

When you can do this, you have an edge over other candidates.

Think about what you have achieved on your last job. Compare that to what you believe your current employer would value most. Focus on the top 3 achievements and prepare to tell a story that details these accomplishments. How did you do so well? What steps did you take? What did you have to overcome?

Being able to provide an anecdote that exemplifies your achievements will go a long way to convincing an employer that you should get the job.

Best of luck!

Learn more here: Accomplishments

Completing the Job Application Form: Be Prepared

2009-11-10T07:28:00.000-08:00

Many employers require a Job Application Form to be completed prior to hiring their employees because it fills in certain gaps that the resume does not provide. In order for you to complete this form accurately and efficiently, you need to be prepared.

The Job Application Form differs from your resume in that it requires you to include much more detailed information about certain things, such as your former employer’s address and telephone number. Your resume does not provide this and employers will want this information if they want to contact your former employer(s) and/or if they do a background check.

Be prepared when you go to your next interview.

On a separate sheet of paper, list all of the specifics about each of your former employers, the schools you attended and other important details that your resume omits. If you follow the link at the bottom of this page, you will be taken to a list of information that is most often required in order to complete a job application form.

Most forms are easy to fill out, but they are time consuming and tedious. You will be asked to complete anywhere from 2-6 pages of information about your current situation as well as your history. Don’t be intimated by it, just fill each section out as completely and accurately as possible.

One of the reasons these forms are used is that the Human Resources department needs a variety of information to complete all of the necessary forms for insurance purposes, social security records, payroll data and so on. To make it easy on them, write as neatly as possible on the form and follow the instructions carefully.

Sometimes you will come across a section that does not apply to you, such as military service or volunteer work. If that is the case, write “Not Applicable” or “N/A” in the blank(s) provided. That way, it will be obvious that you didn’t skip over the section, but that it simply didn’t apply to you.

Whether you are asked to complete the employment application form before you are offered a job or afterward, be sure that the information you include on the form is directed specifically toward (tailored) to the position you are seeking. Just as the resume is aimed at a certain position, so too the application form should be similarly targeted to a specific job.

In addition to the form or forms you are required to complete, you may be requested to provide other items as well. Take your social security card, driver’s license, a list of personal and professional references, extra copies of your resume and copies of any certifications or licenses that you have with you. Better to have them and not need them than to need them and not have them.

Completing the forms that a prospective employer requires does not have to be difficult. Just spend a little time preparing for the situation prior to your arrival.

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

A Resume Secret You Simply Must Know

2009-10-28T09:41:00.000-07:00

A Resume Secret You Simply Must Know

Resumes are an essential part of our work lives. We hate writing them, but we know we need them. What is so remarkable is that they are not that difficult to write. Yet, we procrastinate putting our credentials down on paper. Why? Is it perhaps because we are afraid it will be time consuming?

If you want a professional resume, you have to make the time to write it.

The resume secret you simply must know?

Use a proven guideline to lead you through the process so that you don’t waste time floundering about wondering what you should list on your resume. One of the best guidelines you can use is shown below. It will show you, step by step, how to create a professional resume.

Follow this resume guideline and make the whole process easier and less time-consuming. You know you need a resume. Do it right.

The first part of a resume is the HEADING. It tells the employer who you are and where to contact you. List your name, address, phone number(s) and email address if you want to be contacted that way. Make sure all of the information is 100% accurate.

The next section is the job objective. While some experts say this section isn’t necessary, you stand a much better chance of getting the job you are seeking if you tell the employer exactly what position interests you. Otherwise, the employer is left wondering what you might be best suited for. Sure the cover letter will mention what you are looking for, but what if the cover letter gets separated from the resume? Right, so use a resume objective and make life a little easier for everyone.

You can either put your work experience or your education in the next section. If you list your education next, be sure to include the name and location of the institution, your course of study, graduation dates (or dates of attendance) and your GPA if it’s good.

Work experience is fairly easy with one exception: the dates of employment. That is what usually drives people the craziest. In this section, write out the name of the employer, your title, the dates you were employed and your work-related responsibilites and accomplishments. Consider that anything which relates to your new job should be at the top of your list so the employer reads that first. If you write that you opened the mail when you also supervised 6 people, you have it backwards.

Activities/Honors and the like should have a section of their own and should be listed toward the bottom of the page. Again, if it fits with your job objective, list it. If it doesn’t, but it looks good, use it if you have space.

Other possible sections could include foreign languages, computer experience, volunteer work and professional affiliations. If they apply, use them.

References don’t even need to be mentioned. Everyone knows that if you are asked for references, you can provide them. Don’t waste resume space on something that adds nothing to your credentials.

So, now you have everything you need to write your resume. Ok, so you have a great guideline for writing your resume. The rest is up to you, your memory and whatever time it takes to get it all in print.

Yes, it’s a bother to have to write a resume, but you have to do it, right? Just get it done. You can do it!

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

A Resume Writing Sample

2009-09-30T12:15:00.000-07:00

A Resume Writing Sample Can Make the Process Easier

How many sites have you searched through looking for a good resume writing sample to help you with your own writing process? Finding the right information at the right time is essential. The sample shown below is a template for a resume in the Chronological Format.

Chronological resumes are good to use in many circumstances. This resume format is great if you have a solid background with continual employment, longevity with an employer (or two) and/or great academic credentials. Employers often prefer this format because it appears to be less subjective (or more “factual”).

It is written in reverse chronological order—with your most recent education and experiences listed first. The focus is typically on the Work Experience section. The Chronological Resume is the most commonly used format and it also the easiest to develop.

Writing a resume does not have to be drudgery. You can learn a lot about yourself in the process.

Sample Chronological Resume

Home Address
Street
City, State ZIP
Phone Number

OBJECTIVE: State your job target in a clear and concise way, emphasizing what
you can do for the company

EDUCATION: List most recent institution first, including dates attended and
subjects studied (or degree if one was conferred). List GPA if it
it over 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

EXPERIENCE: List most recent employer first, including job title, city and state
where you worked, dates employed, responsibilities of the position and accomplishments achieved.

SPECIAL SKILLS: Foreign languages, computer skills, relevant equipment knowledge

HONORS AND
AWARDS: Any certificates received, offices elected to, awards accepted

OTHER: Anything else that will excite the employer about meeting you

REFERENCES: Always list “Available Upon Request”

No resume format can guarantee success, but any one of the most commonly used formats, written well, could secure an interview slot. Which format you use is entirely up to you. Simply take your time to write it with these thoughts in mind:

1. Use active language that energizes the reader to want to get to know you better.
2. Ensure there are no typos or grammatical errors.
3. Only use one font
4. Keep all statements in the same verb tense (i.e. directed, formulated, enhanced).
5. Try to keep the resume to one page or two at the most.

Writing your own resume is not rocket science, but it does involve time and thought if you want to develop a marketing piece that sells your qualifications as well as possible.

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Just added some video to the resume site

2009-06-19T13:27:00.000-07:00

In an effort to provide the best information possible to my site visitors, I have now added two videos to my resume writing website. Please let me know what you think.

Resume Creation

Cover Letter Tips

I didn't create these videos, but I hope to be doing some on my own very soon.

Carla

Basic Principles of Resume Writing

2009-04-16T07:35:00.000-07:00

Basic Principles of Resume Writing

Keep it brief!
Your resume is an overview of your qualifications - not your life story. It is a "preview of coming attractions" which creates the desire to see the rest of the show. One to two pages is the standard for a resume read by the human eye, and up to three pages for a scannable resume. If your resume is more than one page, the first page must capture the reader's attention. If it fails to do so, the remaining pages will not be read.

Focus
Don't try to be everything to everyone. Target your job search and your resume to your specific occupational goals.

Multiple Resumes?
Generally, you should concentrate first on one well-written resume that targets your immediate job search. Make sure this resume represents you well to a wide range of employers and is suitable for scanning. If you have more than one objective, additional resumes may be required. For example, if you are planning to pursue two distinct occupations such as realtor and bookkeeper, you would need two resumes. If you only use the targeted resume approach, you would also write a unique resume to each employer.

Visual Impact
A piece of sales literature has only about two seconds to attract the reader's attention. Similarly, the resume must attract the employer even before it is read. Many advertising techniques apply, including the use of white space, bullets, indentation and varied type style. Professional printing produces high quality, but can be expensive. Laser quality printing is an excellent alternative. Never handwrite your resume! Make sure there are no typographical, grammatical, or spelling errors. Ask someone to proof read your resume to help eliminate errors.

Insure Integrity
Your resume is specifically designed to paint the best picture possible of you. Place the emphasis on the positive, not the negative. It should be an honest statement of your best qualities. Your resume should hold up under scrutiny. Facts and numbers must be believable. The content of the resume should be in harmony. Dates should be consistent while experience and related activities should support your qualifications.

Scannable Resumes
Many employers and employment agencies are using resume scanning systems to screen resumes, a trend that will increase in the future. When writing any resume consider its scannability. Generally, there is little difference between a good scannable resume and one that is effective for the human eye. Since, ultimately, all resumes will be looked at by a person, your resume must work for both.

Overqualified?
If you consistently hear that you are overqualified or are concerned that you will be perceived as such, then you have not effectively targeted your resume. When writing your resume, target it to the level of employment and to the occupation or employer. If you are pursuing more than one distinct level of employment, then consider a separate resume for each. Present the information that you believe is important. You don't have to tell everything. As an example, if you have an advanced degree in a field unrelated to your goal, leave it off.

Brought to you by:
Professional Resume Example
and
Professional Job Search

Decision Making Made Easy

2009-03-17T11:13:00.001-07:00

Decision-making made easy

Choose It! is decision making software. Use it to make important business, financial, even life-changing decisions. Yes, really! It brings amazing clarity, your own clarity, to any complex question or problem.

Imagine using this software program to help you decide which career is best for you.

Have you ever wondered if you were choosing the right career path? Perhaps you have several options and are unsure of which one to pursue. Some jobs offer more money, but have less flexibility and require more travel. Other jobs don't pay as much, but have great benefits, no travel and you can take time off to handle personal tasks without being penalized. How are you supposed to know which one is right for you?

Here is another situation that many people find themselves in…going back to school for more education.

Are you trying to decide whether to continue working, quit working and go back to school full time or work while going to school? This amazing decision-making software guides you through the process and provides the format for considering all of the alternatives according to your needs and desires.

Choose It! Is a simple-yet-sophisticated decision matrix where you insert the various alternatives to your situation step-by-step and then weight them by importance. This decision making process organizes your thinking. Result? You make correct choices for the most complex, nuanced questions.

It takes decision-making to the next level. Best of all, it's free!

Try Choose It! Now. There is no cost to you and it might just help you answer some of those frustrating questions that seem to have no easy solution.

I have used this software myself for a variety of situations, but the funniest one was when I decided to let Choose It! guide me through the process of determining which shoes to wear to work one evening. I work part-time at a craft store and I have to stand and walk for 5 or so hours at a time.

Ok, so in the scheme of things, choosing shoes isn't a life-altering decision, but I was curious to see how the software program would handle it.

My options were: boots, tennis shoes, flip flops and leather sandals. I entered each alternative in the appropriate spaces, then based by decision on: comfort level, style, matching my clothes and whether the shoes were clean enough.

After weighting each option, Choose It! helped me make sense of all of the choices and how well they would work for me and it concluded (really I concluded) that the sandals would be best.

Enjoy!

Will a resume get you a job?

2009-03-12T10:02:00.000-07:00

Will a Resume Get You a Job?

That question is asked over and over again in Career Placement Centers, Employment Offices and on forums on the Internet. Will a resume get you a job?

The short answer is “no”. A resume will not get you a job. What a resume will do, if it is done effectively, is pave the way for an interview. Employers use resumes to decide who they think is best suited for the job and typically weed out enough poorly written resumes to narrow the candidate pool to 5-6 good candidates. (Some companies have a higher number than that and others have a lower number. It depends on the organization and how they structure the interview process.)

If you want to be counted among those 5-6 candidates who are called in for an interview, then your resume DOES have to be outstanding.

Will a resume get you a job? Now, let’s answer that question a different way. A resume is a necessary part of getting a good job. Does that contradict the first statement? No, it doesn’t. A resume on its own can only do so much, but without it, at least with most companies, you cannot even get anyone to acknowledge you. You must have a resume in order to get your foot in the door in many companies.

Of course, not any resume will do. Some of the people that you are competing against for jobs are going to spend a lot of time and money crafting excellent resumes. Yours has to be just as good – preferably better.

You don’t need a professional resume service, either. What you need is the right information and the best guidelines to provide you with everything you need so that you can create your own top-notch resume.

It may take more time to write an excellent resume, but a poorly written resume isn’t going to do any good at all, so either write the best resume you can write or don’t bother writing one at all. It’s just that important.

Brought to you by:

Professional Resume Example.com

Cover Letters for Teachers

2008-12-27T10:01:00.000-08:00

Cover Letters for Teachers

Why are cover letters so important? They provide the prospective employer with a brief review of your skills and abilities in the form of a letter. These types of letters are written much differently than resumes and can have a potent impact on your future employer.

The best news is that writing one it isn’t that difficult. An excellent teacher is always going to be in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for teachers through 2014 will grow somewhere between 9 and 17% per year.

“Experts predict that over the next ten years the nation will need 2.2 to 2.4 million teachers. That means there will be 150,000 to 250,000 openings for teachers in the nation's elementary and secondary schools. The needs are greatest in urban and rural communities and in curricular areas such as special education, mathematics, science, bilingual education, and English as a second language.” This information comes from www.recruitingteachers.org, a non-profit organization based in Belmont, MS.

What does that mean? It means there will be continued growth in the field of education. If you are a good teacher, you should not encounter problems in finding a great job in a location that you desire.

What about that amazing teaching position at that awesome new school that you have your eye on, though? Do you think the competition for that position will be greater? Of course it will. The great paying jobs always demand the best and the brightest people. That is why your credentials and qualifications will have to be presented in the most incredible way if you are to get the job of your dreams.

One aspect of making a great impression on a prospective employer is to create a fantastic picture of who you are - with words. Let your cover letter show the school administrators just how remarkable you are.

The cover letter has one goal. That is to get the employer excited about the resume. It is a marketing tool, just like the resume is. Sell yourself in a compelling and exciting way.

What makes the best impression on employers? The wise use of accomplishments with anecdotes will win over a principal or school administrator much faster than simply stating what you did and where you worked. Let your best qualities reach the employer through carefully written examples and stories. Don’t just state what you are capable of, show what you have done in the past with vibrant language that attracts and invites the employer to want to know more.

You are a part of a significant sector of the labor market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Preschool, kindergarten, elementary school, middle school, and secondary school teachers, except special education, held about 3.8 million jobs in 2004. Of the teachers in those jobs, about 1.5 million are elementary school teachers, 1.1 million are secondary school teachers, 628,000 are middle school teachers, 431,000 are preschool teachers, and 171,000 are kindergarten teachers.”

You have to be your very best to get the great jobs. What skills and abilities do you have that you can offer the employer – and – how can you do so in a way that makes the employer want to pick up the phone and call you for an interview?
Let your cover letter generate interest in your resume, then let your resume hold the employer’s attention so that you are invited in for a face to face meeting.

The cover letter builds on the resume and leads the employer toward it. Make it glow. While it may not persuade an employer to grant you an interview by itself, it is a vital part of the whole package that sells an employer on YOU.

Cover Letters for Graphic Designers

2008-11-24T10:48:00.000-08:00

Why are cover letters so important? They provide the prospective employer with a brief review of your skills and abilities in the form of a letter. Letters are written much differently than resumes and can have a lasting impact on the reader. The best news is that writing one it isn't that hard.

If you are wondering whether you need a cover letter or not, the answer is "yes". Employers are expecting a cover letter, but more important than that, you have an extra page to sell yourself if you write one. Even if you are an excellent Graphic Designer, you still need to convince the employer that you are worthy of a job.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Among the five design occupations, graphic designers are expected to have the most new jobs through 2014; however, job seekers are expected to face keen competition for available positions."

What does that mean? It means there are design positions available, but you are going to have to work hard to get the really great jobs.

One other note of interest: "Many talented individuals are attracted to careers as graphic designers. Individuals with a bachelor's degree and knowledge of computer design software, particularly those with Web site design and animation experience, will have the best opportunities." That is also according to the BLS.

Graphic Designers, generally speaking, are in a good labor market right now. That's wonderful news, certainly. You should not encounter difficulties in obtaining work.
What about that awesome position with the top salary that you have your eye on, though? Do you think the competition for that position will be greater? You bet it will. That means your credentials will have to be presented in the best light possible if you are to get the job offer.

So, how do you write a great cover letter?

The cover letter builds on the resume and leads the employer toward it. Its goal is to get the employer excited about the resume. It is a sales tool, just like the resume is. Sell yourself in a compelling and exciting way. Inject energy and let your best qualities reach the employer through carefully written examples and anecdotes. Don't just state what you are capable of, show the employer what you have done in the past with vibrant language that attracts and invites the employer to want to know more.

You are a part of a significant sector of the labor market. You have to be your very best to get the great jobs. What skills and abilities do you have that you can offer the employer – and – how can you do so in a way that makes the employer pick up the phone and call you for an interview?

Be personable, but professional at the same time.

Let your cover letter generate interest in your resume, then let your resume grab the employer's attention so that you are invited in for a face to face meeting.
A cover letter isn't likely to persuade an employer to grant you an interview on its own, but it is part of the whole package that WILL encourage an employer to want to get to know you better. Make it an exciting and enjoyable read and you will find yourself being offered the Graphic Designer position you apply for.

For more information on cover letters, click here: Resume Cover Letters

A Hiring Manager Has a Tough Job

2008-11-20T12:57:00.000-08:00

This is what it looks like from the Human Resources side.

A hiring manager has to work long hours, interview job applicants regularly, make hiring decisions that are sometimes very difficult and they have to meet with managers throughout the company in which they work to learn more about job vacancies. Hiring managers are not in an enviable position.

Have you ever thought about what happens when a hiring manager makes a bad hiring choice? Their whole job relies upon them making good hiring decisions.
That’s why a hiring manager has to be diligent about the resumes they select and the candidates they interview. Their job can be on the line if a candidate does not work out – especially if the position is a high-level executive.

For every open position at a company, stacks of resumes can be received for consideration. If an individual had to read each of those resumes, it would take far more time than any Human Resource Department has. That
s why the initial screening of each resume is a quick process – usually merely seconds. Anything that stands out (in a bad way) will cause the resume to be purged from the resume pile.

During the initial resume review, the screener is also looking for keywords that attest to your having knowledge of and/or experience handling the responsibilities of the position. Some of those keywords may reflect accomplishments while others define your ambition. You have to do the research to know what the employer is looking for in a candidate.

Do you think a hiring manager is going to give you the benefit of the doubt when he or she has over a hundred other resumes to consider? There is no incentive to do that. It's easier to simply grab another resume from the stack.

It is because the hiring process is handled in this way that your resume has to be excellent. It has to be professional and it has to be targeted to the position you are seeking.

The best thing you can do is to make sure your resume is blemish-free and includes the appropriate keywords for your field/industry. Make it easy for the hiring manager to want to read your resume.

If you can make it past that initial resume review, you have a much better chance of being called for an interview. That's the whole purpose of the resume. You can do this!

The Length of Your Resume

2008-10-31T13:18:00.000-07:00

Don't pad your resume

Be honest

Only list what applies to the position you are seeking

Add enough white space to allow natural breaks in reading

Never use two words when one will do

Do not list references

Target your resume to the job and the company

Use action keywords

Write your resume in such a way that the reader knows exactly what you want and your credentials support that goal. Anything more becomes tedious and takes away from the impact of your true purpose. Anything less and your goal become unsubstantiated by your past experience and education.

Most resume experts, myself included, suggest you keep your resume to two pages. If you can fit your skills and accomplishments on one page, that is even better. Just remember that the goal isn't to provide your life story. Make sure you are using only what best supports your career goals.

The resume cover page is in addition to the resume. It is not counted in the suggested resume length above.

The length of your resume is - as long as it need to be to get the employer to take notice.

If you are interested in getting some help with your resume, you will love this resource that I have put together over the past few years. Actually, it was originally copyrighted in 1991, but I have revised it many times since then. I just had a panel of 10 individuals read and review it and they just raved about it.

"How to Write a Professional Resume"

Thanks for reading!

~Carla Vaughan

Changing Careers? In this Economy, You'd Better Be Prepared.

2008-10-27T06:29:00.000-07:00

Changing Careers?

Is it time to change careers? If so, the ideas below offer some excellent advice for revamping your resume to outline the new direction your career will be taking, even in a tough economic situation.

As you know, your resume has to be the best it can be. When changing careers, your skills and achievements may perfectly fit into your new position. But even if they don't, how can you make your resume appeal to an employer in your new field of employment? You have to present yourself on paper in a different way that you have in the past. Your resume has to be carefully tailored to the new employer's needs and goals. And, with the economy the way it is, you'll be facing stiffer competition.

First, choose a resumeformat that best highlights your skills, accomplishments and talents. Most likely, this will either be a functional format or a combination format. The reason that these two resume formats are better for career-changers, is that they place more of an emphasis on the work done rather than on the employers, education and dates the work was done.

It does make a difference in how you are viewed. In either format, be sure to list your skills and accomplishments near the top of the page. Let the hiring manager see what you have to offer instead of what your job title was or where you worked. While important on some level, who you worked for may detract from what you did while you were an employee there. Why?

Look at this example. Perhaps you worked for Destin Marketing as a graphics designer and now you want to re-focus your career in a new direction. Now, you want to be an artist for Christmas cards. While the two involve artistic abilities, many of the tasks and responsibilities will be different. Placing those skills and talents where the prospective employer can see them first, is critical, especially when you remember that there are a lot of other job candidates vying for the same position.

When considering the skills you should put in your resume, remember that there are a myriad of transferable skills that employers seek regardless of where you work.
They transfer from position to position.
Consider this list and how each one might apply to you:

communication skills (written and oral)

negotiation skills

team player

leadership abilities

motivating others

solving problems

Of course there are many other possibilities, but you should be able to understand the concept by those presented here.

If you have won awards, received honors, had material published or anything along these lines, list them on your resume, but only if they relate to your new career path. Telling a prospective employer that you were real estate agent of the month in your office would be fine if you were going into a related career or a sales position in a new field, but if you are going changing careers to a school teacher position, no one is really going to care about a sales award.

Changing careers is not for everyone. It does require patience, creativity and more work than it would take finding a position in an identical field. It can be done, though, and should be, if it is the right thing for you, your happiness and your future.

Best wishes!

Brought to you by, Professional-Resume-Example.com

To view resume formats, go here: Resume Formats

Carla Vaughan

College Graduate Resume

2008-10-24T17:53:00.000-07:00

The College Graduate Resume

You’ve just graduated from college (or you are about to) and you have little or no work experience. How do you craft a college graduate resume that garners the attention of prospective employers? Is it even possible to create an effective resume when you have little or no work experience? Definitely!

While recent college graduates and entry-level jobseekers have unique challenges when it comes to resume development, there are techniques that work well in this situation.

Let’s first visit the purpose of a resume. It does not have to perform the task of getting you a job. All it has to do is get you an interview. So the primary mission of a resume (and cover letter) is to arouse the reader's interest and market your abilities and accomplishments so that you get asked to an interview.

Here are a few techniques to assist in the writing of a college graduate resume:

1. Keep your resume and cover letter targeted to one career at one company (at a time). Be specific and focused.
2. Any activity or group in which you held an office, performed related work or gained experience that highlights your skills is a possibility for use on a resume. It doesn’t matter if you were paid or not. It can be used in a summary of your qualifications.
3. Visit a variety of websites to learn more about the daily responsibilities, academic requirements, technical skills, and other qualifications needed for your target position. The Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics is a great resource. The more you can match your skills to those that are expected in the position for which you are applying, the better your chances of getting called for an interview.
4. Focus on what you can do for the employer not what you expect them to provide for you once you get hired. Be positive and energetic in your choice of language and don’t forget to use action keywords to make a confident impact on the employer.

Like anything else in life, you need to clearly understand where you are heading in order to get there. Although it is highly unlikely that your first job after college will last until retirement, it is the job that starts your career, so planning and preparation should be taken seriously.

Make sure you proofread your resume and have someone else review it for you, too. It would be such a shame to get everything listed above done correctly and then not be taken seriously because you didn’t spell something correctly.

You now have an opportunity to get your foot in the door. Make the most of it. Use the advice above to create a college graduate resume that gets the attention of employers and makes them WANT to learn more about you.

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Finding a Job in 2009

2008-10-14T10:48:00.000-07:00

Professional-Job-Search.com launches

2008-10-13T06:23:00.000-07:00

There is a new job search site in town and it promises to be a real winner. After several years of working on the professional resume website: Professional-Resume-Example.com, it became apparent that more information was needed specifically about the job search.

This new website is designed to fill that need.

While there is widespread information about the job search and various methods of finding a great job on the internet, there isn't a concise compilation of material in one place that satisfies the questions that most job seekers have.

This is the new site:
Professional-Job-Search.com

The goal of this new website is to provide a one-stop location for all job candidates to find the information they need to secure a great job.

Material will be continually added based on the needs and goals of those in the job market as well as on the comments and suggestions made by the visitors to the site.

As with the resume site, the focus isn't on buying and selling a bunch of stuff, it's on providing well-written, thorough information specifically focused on meeting the needs of job-seekers.

Your thoughts and suggestions are welcome.

~Carla Vaughan
Owner
Professional-Resume-Example.com

Professional-Job-Search.com

Changing Careers?

2008-10-02T14:01:00.000-07:00

Is it time for you to consider changing careers? If so, the ideas below offer some excellent advice for revamping your resume and focusing it on the direction you plan to take in your new career.

As you know, your resume has to be top-notch. Anything else just doesn't cut it. When changing careers, your skills and achievements may not perfectly fit into your new position. How can you make your resume appeal to a prospective employer in your new field of employment? You have to present yourself in a different way that you have in the past. Your resume has to be carefully tailored to the new employer's needs and goals.

First, choose a resume format that highlights your qualifications and accomplishments. For career changers, this will either be a combination format or a functional format. The reason these two formats are better for career-changers, is that they place more emphasis on the work done rather than on the employers, education and dates of employment.

Even though this seems trivial, it isn't. In either format, list your skills and achievements near the top of the page - and be sure they match the employers needs. Let the hiring manager see what you have to offer instead of what your job title was or where you worked. While the company you worked for is important on some level, who you worked for may detract from what you did while you were an employee there. Why?

For example: Let's say you worked for Southlake Marketing as a graphics designer and now you want to re-focus your career in a new direction. Now, you want to be an art teacher. While the two involve artistic abilities, many of the tasks and responsibilities will not be the same. Placing those skills and aptitudes where the prospective employer can see them first, is critical, especially when you remember that your resume gets scanned, not read. You only have a limited amount of time to make a great first impression.

When considering the skills you should put in your resume, remember that there are many transferable skills that employers seek regardless of where you work. Every employer wants someone who takes initiative and is a problem-solver.

They transfer from position to position.
Consider this list and how each one might apply to you:

communication skills (written and oral)

team player

negotiation skills

leadership abilities

solving problems

motivating others

Of course there are many more possibilities, but you should be able to understand the concept by those presented here.

For more information about changing careers, look here: Career Planning

Transferable skills

2008-09-29T06:21:00.000-07:00

What are transferable skills? Transferable skills are the skills you have learned or utilized which can be used to enhance your future job experiences. They are the abilities and talents you possess which can be employed in an array of work related positions.

When you understand how many transferable skills and abilities you have, you are better prepared to market yourself to employers. It's difficult to explain to others what you are capable of when you haven't taken the time to figure it out yourself. The more time you take to identify your skills and abilities, the better prepared you will be to create an excellent resume – and perform well in an interview.

How do you determine which transferable skills you possess? Make a list of your work experience, hobbies, volunteer work, and positions or offices you hold or have held (in various associations, committees and/or clubs). Have you played any sports? Have you worked on programs at your church? This will help you start to realize just how much you have done in the past. In a little bit, you will see how those experiences can be related to your future employment.

Here is a list of possible transferable skills:

Communication skills
Negotiating ability
Creativity
Listening skills
Teaching ability
Leadership skills
Editing ability
Organization skills
Taking initiative
Management skills, etc.
Goal oriented
Conducting research
Motivational skills
Planning ability
Cooperative attitude
Math Aptitude
Providing constructive feedback
Computer literacy
Work well under pressure

Making a list of the transferable skills you possess (accomplishments and skills) is very helpful. It is important especially when you do not have a wealth of real world experience from which to pull.

Here is something else you ought to consider: Have quantifiable examples of each of your transferable skills so that you truly stand out to the prospective employer. It is one thing to tell an employer that you are a good facilitator. It is another thing entirely to be able to back that statement up with solid measurable examples. It’s especially important when you have some concrete experience in a given field.

To be able to make these transferable skills work for you, some research may need to be done to determine the exact needs of the employer for the position you are interested in. Find out what is required and then tailor your skill set to that one position.

Job duties may change from job to job, but there are a great many skills that transfer well from one position to another. Being able to recognize and clearly relate those transferable skills to a prospective employer is a huge benefit to both you and the employer.

Written by Carla Vaughan, Owner of Professional-Resume-Example.com

Professional-Resume-Example.com is a web site devoted to assisting candidates in the job-search process. Carla holds a B.S. in Business from Southern Illinois University and has authored several books.

Free Resume Format Information

2008-08-29T11:18:00.000-07:00

Free Resume Format Information
There are three common resume formats: Chronological, Functional, and Combination. Each resume format has its own strengths and weaknesses. What makes the determining factor in the format you choose is YOU: your skill base, your past work experience, your education and your personal situation. Your career objectives will also influence your choice. Having the following free resume format information can prove very useful in making a decision about which format best suits your needs.

Chronological Resume Format -
The emphasis of this format is on a chronological listing of employment and related experiences. The format focuses on recent employment, while de-emphasizing experiences further back in time. The chronological resume is great for people with a consistent employment history, no gaps in employment, and whose past employment experiences are directly related to their current employment goals. A steady work record with increasing responsibilities can be effectively showcased using this format. Include dates, names and contact information such as address and phone numbers. This may NOT be the best format for individuals with job gaps, new graduates or a person changing careers.

When listing your experience, go back 5 to 10 years of your employment history. Experiences prior to 10 years ago begin to lose impact and could open the door for age discrimination. If you have valuable experience beyond 10 years, you may want to consider a Functional and Combination resume format.

Functional Resume Format - The functional resume highlights skills, experience and accomplishments without identifying specific dates, names and places. In this format, information is organized by functions or skills, advertising the specific qualifications needed for the occupation. This format works very well for people changing careers, including military personnel moving into civilian employment. It is also effective for people who are reentering the workforce after a gap in employment. First time job seekers and people who want to emphasize experience that may be viewed as outdated will also want to consider using this format.

In a functional resume there is no chronological listing of employment. Because of this, many employers do not like this format; it creates suspicion that the person may be trying to hide something. The employer may suspect a job hopper, an older applicant trying to disguise age, a lack of career progression, underemployment, employment gaps, or too little relevant experience.

Combination Resume Format -
The combination resume brings the best of both the chronological and functional resumes. It features a functional section that highlights skills, accomplishments and experience. It also includes a chronological listing of employment and education. The combination resume is a very effective format for many job seekers. The best chronological resume can be enhanced with a section highlighting skills, accomplishments, and experience. The functional resume can be strengthened with a chronological listing of employment experiences. It's the best of both worlds.
Choose the resume format which best meets your needs. Better yet, create your resume in more than one format and see how it works for you. Which one do employers respond to most favorably? This free resume format information can help you create a resume that employers WANT to read.

Brought to you by: Professional Resumes

Resume-Writing "How-to" on Google's "Knol"

2008-07-29T11:15:00.000-07:00

Google recently open it's doors to the general public regarding it's "Knol" project. After reading about Google's aspirations for this project, I decided it would be beneficial for me to provide some solid resume advice on their site. The result is the longest, most detailed article I have ever written on the subject of resume-writing.

See for yourself:

How to Write the Right Resume

I hope you enjoy it and I hope it helps you in your job search.

~Carla

A Resume with Attitude

2008-07-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

You can bet other job candidates are writing excellent resumes, so you need to do so also. What does it take to write an excellent resume? I could say that it takes time and effort, but that is a given. Instead, let’s focus on some important details that some resume-writers miss.

Attention-getting resumes are those that grab the reader’s attention and hold it through the end of the last period on the page. What you have to determine is the words and phrases that are going to capture the employer’s attention. You have to appeal to the employer’s needs – and satisfy them with your qualifications and accomplishments.

Review the ad or job vacancy notice and determine what the employer is specifically looking for. Then, match your skills, point for point with those needs. Either speak to those skills with something within your resume or in the cover letter, but do not leave the employer wondering if you have everything he/she needs in an employee.

When writing or updating your resume to meet the employer’s needs, you are focusing, or targeting your resume to that one job and that one employer. That is far more meaningful and beneficial than submitting a generic resume in the hopes that the employer can figure out what you are capable of doing.

Be specific and be bold, but also be honest.

One of the ways to be bold AND honest is to state not only what you have done for previous employers, but also how you accomplished your goals, if you had to overcome obstacles to achieve those goals and specifically how those goals helped the organization for which you worked. Specifically – state how you saved the company money, improved efficiencies, or increased revenue.

Employers want to know the bottom line. Give them the bottom line. If you managed a $256,000 operating budget and found a way to decrease overhead by 15%, then be specific and state that. Those numbers carry more weight than any two paragraphs you could write about the tasks you performed.

You need a resume with an attitude – so inject some of that attitude into the resume you have or start by creating a new resume from scratch. Be bold. Capture the employer’s attention and KEEP IT.

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Professional-Resume-Example.com

2008-07-11T17:33:00.000-07:00

Resumes for Teens

2008-07-09T06:52:00.000-07:00

Even as a teenager, you might want to go ahead and prepare a resume. Most jobs you will want to apply for as a teen will not require you to have a resume, but you will make a great impression if you have one prepared. In fact, if an employer has two equally qualified applicants and one has a resume and the other does not, the person with the resume will get the job - no question.

Why?

Having a resume as a teenager shows an employer that you are willing to make the effort to do whatever is necessary to succeed. You are already willing to go the extra mile to get what you want. Employers like to see that kind of initiative.

So, if you are a teenager and you want to get a job, create a resume and make a great first impression. You may not have a lot of information on your resume, but even a short resume is better than not having one.

There are a number of things you can put on your resume that you probably aren't aware of, too. Any volunteer position (think: helping out at church) provided you with an opportunity to learn new skills. Think of all the things you can do that might make a difference in a job and list those under a Summary of Qualifications OR a Summary of Work-Related Skills section.

Taking the initiative to create a teen resume will help you now and in the long run. You'll be that much smarter and farther ahead of your counterparts.

Have a great time with your new job, too. It can be a wonderful learning experience.

Brought to you by:

Professional-Resume-Example.com

Resume Templates - Free

2008-06-24T08:16:00.000-07:00

Creating a resume can be a real pain. I've tried to take the misery out of it by providing some resume templates on my site. These templates are provided to you at no cost.

These templates were created to show you what a resume can look like. Use them as a guideline. There are several different versions so you can see how different styles might look. They were designed to show you where to place certain pieces of information in your resume.

Follow the link below to my site and you can click around to see which resume template might be most beneficial for you.

~Carla Vaughan

Resume Templates

Your Chance to Earn an Extra Income

2008-06-12T16:50:00.000-07:00

For a year and a half, I have maintained this blog. I have shared resume-related articles, job forecasts, links to resume information and career guidance - and I truly enjoy helping others.

I want to share something else now that I don't often talk about. The website that I created about resume writing is extremely successful. With hundreds and hundreds of thousands of sites on professional resume writing, my site comes up on Google at the #2 (or sometimes the #3) spot. Now, I'm not a computer genius. In fact, I barely know much html at all. What makes my site successful is the company I chose to help me create it.

Each month, I earn a decent income from my resume site. Some of the money comes from Google Adsense ads (anywhere from $1000 - $1300 per month), affiliate programs that I promote and also my personal resume-writing service.

You can earn thousands per month just by putting up a website based on something you love.

Here are a couple of my sites:

http://www.professional-resume-example.com
http://www.best-friends-forever.com

If you can write a coherent sentence and follow a 10 step action guide, you can earn extra money, or like some people (I'm not quite there yet), quit your day job and live off of your web site earnings.

Money back guarantee, too. Seriously. They'll refund your full purchase price if you change your mind in 30 days or less (or they'll pro-rate your refund after 30 days). I've been with them for 2 1/2 years and haven't known a single person who has asked for a refund.

Printable Resume (free online)

2008-06-02T05:33:00.000-07:00

There are a number of web sites which provide you with an opportunity to make a free printable resume. Other sites will charge a fee for this service. Be sure to read the fine print on each site to ensure you are getting exactly what you want. It would be a shame to type in all of your personal history thinking a site was free only to find that, at the end of the process, printing your resume costs a small fortune.

Being able to create a printable resume online (and for free) is a real benefit. Take a look at the link below and read more. This may be just the information you're looking for.

Free Printable Resume

Cover Letters

2008-05-16T09:40:00.000-07:00

Cover Letters

Any time a resume is sent by mail it must be accompanied by a cover letter.
The resume is an impersonal description of your qualifications, much like a product brochure. When presenting the resume to an employer it needs to be personalized and targeted. The cover letter is your opportunity to personalize your resume and target your skills.

Most letter formats can be used for the cover letter; the only absolute is that it conform to accepted standards for business letters.
A cover letter may be sent in response to an advertised job opening, a referral from a networking contact, or direct to an employer.

Cover Letter Formats
Invited Letter - This letter format is used when an employer has solicited the resume for consideration. This is often in response to a want ad or publicized job listing. This style focuses on matching your qualifications to the advertised requirements of the position.

Uninvited or Cold Contact Letter - Use this format to contact employers who have not advertised or published job openings. The focus is on matching your qualifications to the perceived needs of the employer based on labor market research. This strategy requires that a phone or personal contact with the employer either precede or follow the sending of the resume and cover letter.

Referral Letter - Through networking, informational interviews and contact with employers, the effective job seeker will receive referrals to job opportunities. These referrals may be to a specific job opening (advertised or unadvertised), or to an employer who may or may not be hiring now. In a referral letter, mention to the individual who provided the information about the company or job.

Cover Letter Variation
Job Match or "T" Letter -When crafting a cover letter it is always important to match your qualifications to the job and/or employer. Some sources for information include employment advertisements, position descriptions, phone conversations and informational interviews. Generally this is done in the narriative of the letter. The "T" letter format uses bulleted comparisons that target the specific requirements and your corresponding qualifications.

Cover Letter Points to Consider
• Always address the letter to a specific person by name and title. Even if responding to a job that states "no phone calls," consider calling to politely ask the name of the hiring authority. This may not be possible when responding to a "blind ad" where the name of the company is not available. In this case, send the letter to the title of the hiring manager: e.g., "Production Manager," "Maintenance Supervisor," "Office Manager," etc. Never use the term, "To Whom It May Concern".
• Sign the letter in blue ink, it implies that the letter is original. The only other color ink to use is black, never use any other color on the cover letter.
• Structure the letter to reflect your individuality, but avoid appearing too familiar, overbearing, humorous, or cute. Keep sentences short and to the point.
• Keep it brief, usually no more than three to five paragraphs on one page.
• The paper and style of your cover letter should compliment your resume. Use the same paper stock for both your cover letter and resume.

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

For more information on Cover Letters:

Cover Letter Tips

Cover Letter Guideline

Cover Letter Checklist

Have a great day!

Resume Proofreading

2008-05-01T05:47:00.000-07:00

Proofreading Your Resume

Take time to prepare the best résumé you can. You might not be the most qualified candidate for every job, but your résumé might be better than the competition. The most common mistakes are simple typographical and spelling errors. Computer spelling checkers do not catch correctly spelled words used incorrectly— "of" for "on," for example, or "their" for "there."

You want your résumé to stand out, but not for the wrong reasons. Avoid mistakes by having several people proofread for you.

Before you send out a résumé, review the vacancy announcement and fine- tune your résumé to meet employers’ specific criteria. Sprinkle your résumé with language found in the position description, paying special attention to your objective and qualifications summary if you have them.

Finally, consider how your résumé will look when it arrives on a reviewer’s desk. Hastily stuffed, illegibly addressed, and sloppily sealed envelopes do nothing to enhance your image as a neat, would- be professional. If you are faxing your résumé, set the fax machine to fine printing mode, and always fax an original. Your résumé may have to withstand several trips through a copy machine, so you want it to transmit as clearly as possible.

Listing Other Interests on a Resume: Yes or No?

2008-04-23T07:16:00.000-07:00

Good Morning!

Recently, I had a question sent to me about including "other interests" on a resume. Should that section of the resume be included or excluded? The information was as follows:

Other Interests: Family, coaching youth sports, golf, fishing and hiking.

This is what I suggested he do:

The "Other Interests" portion of a resume is not necessary. In fact, it is the only aspect of your resume that I think someone might find something to nit-pick about. Why? Some people might worry that since you listed "Family" that you might be more focused on your family than your job. I admire that and I agree that you have your priorities straight if that's the case, however, some employers expect you to put the job first. You can put your family first without having to "warn" the employer that you are doing so. If a need arises that you have to make a choice between your family and your job, then you should get to make that choice, but don't let the prospective employer make it for you before you ever get a chance to interview for the job.

Does that make sense?

The other items don't need to be there either simply because they are possible reasons to exclude you more than they are possible reasons to include you. How can that be? What if the person screening your resume tried to play youth sports and failed miserably - or their father wasn't around for them? What if the resume screener went on a fishing trip once and fell out of the boat into deep water and it scared him/her so bad that fishing is now considered a hated hobby?

Don't give the prospective employer any reason to eliminate you. These things DO happen. It's crazy, but it's true.

So, now you know the answers, too. Don't give the employer a reason to exclude you. If you have this section on your resume, consider removing it. There is no sense in getting yourself taken out of contention for a job simply because someone else has a bias.

For more information about the Resume Outline (which tells you the basic necessities of a resume: Resume Outline

Have a great day!

Length of Your Resume

2008-04-21T06:28:00.000-07:00

The length of your resume is less important than its substance. Remember when you were told, especially as a child, that it wasn't what you wore on the outside, but what kind of person you were on the inside? Well, to some extent, that is exactly the same with your resume.

What you write on your resume is more important than how long it is.

How long should your resume be? The length of your resume should be in direct proportion to your success in reaching your career goals and in pursuing related educational objectives. What does that mean?

Well, it means:

Don't pad your resume
Be honest
Only list what applies to the position you are seeking
Add enough white space to allow natural breaks in reading
Never use two words when one will do
Do not list references
Target your resume to the job and the company
Use action keywords

Write your resume in such a way that the reader knows exactly what you want and your credentials support that goal. Anything more becomes tedious and takes away from the impact of your true purpose. Anything less and your goal become unsubstantiated by your past experience and education.

Most experts suggest you keep your resume to two pages. If you can fit your skills and accomplishments on one page, that is even better. If you are a professional or executive, three pages may be required to tell the whole story, but be sure you are using only what best supports your career goals.

The resume cover page is in addition to the resume. It is not counted in the suggested resume length above.

The goal of the resume is to get the interest of the prospective employer to the extent that you are sought out for an interview. If your resume does that, then the length of your resume will not be an issue. Write what matters.

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Have a great day!

An Outstanding Cover Letter

2008-04-17T11:19:00.000-07:00

There is nothing that can compare to an outstanding cover letter. If you want to get an employer's attention, you will need cover letter that demands their attention.

The cover letter is the first thing that an employer is going to read. It is the precursor to the resume. If the cover letter doesn’t command the attention of the reader right away, then you only have the resume left to do so. Sure, the resume will outline your educational and experiential background, but it doesn't afford the flexibility of a cover letter.

An outstanding cover letter gives you an opportunity to tailor your credentials in a way that the resume does not. You are able to explain situations so that the employer understands why, for instance, you have a 2 year gap in your employment dates. You can expound on a specific skill set. You can outline a situation that shows the employer how accomplished you are. There is so much more that an outstanding cover letter can do.

Do not underestimate the importance of an outstanding cover letter.

Remember that a cover letter is short and to the point. If at all possible, keep the cover letter to one page. Keep it professional, but be sure to sell yourself, too.

Map out the information you want to place in each section, then go back through and fine tune it. Don't try to write brilliantly from the salutation to the signature in the first draft. Revise it each time you go through it.

An outstanding cover letter is also tailored to the employer's needs. If the ad you read states that the employer is looking for someone with three years of managerial experience, then you need to include something in your cover letter that states you have managerial experience. If you do not have that much experience, show the employer how much you have learned and how quickly you learned it. Let the employer know that you are determined to be successful. This is especially important if you are still in school or have recently graduated from school.

Once you think you have everything the way you want it in your cover letter, proofread it. You can say everything an employer wants to hear, but if your cover letter is loaded with spelling and grammar errors, you will not get anywhere. Making sure your cover letter is error-free is definitely one step in the right direction.

An outstanding cover letter requires some time and thought up front, but if it correctly guides the employer to your resume and the employer likes what is there, you stand a great chance of receiving a phone call for an interview.

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Have a great day!

A Resume Guideline Makes Writing a Resume Easier and Faster

2008-04-14T13:48:00.000-07:00

Resumes are an essential part of our work lives. We do not enjoy writing them, but we know we need them if we are going to succeed in our careers. Many times, we put off writing one until we are desperately in need of one, then we are more likely to leave things off and make unnecessary mistakes because we are pressed for time.

You are so much better off writing your resume BEFORE you need it.

Use a proven guideline to lead you through the process so that you don't waste time wondering what you should list on your resume. One of the best guidelines you can use is shown below. It will show you, step by step, how to create a professional resume.

The information is based on a chronologically formatted resume, but it can be tailored to any format you choose.

The guideline:

The Heading. It tells the employer who you are and where to contact you. List your name, address, phone number(s) and email address if you want to be contacted that way. Proofread this carefully to ensure all of the information is completely accurate.

Job Objective. While some experts say this section isnst necessary, you stand a much better chance of getting the job you are seeking if you tell the employer exactly what position interests you. Sure the cover letter will mention what you are looking for, but what if the cover letter gets separated from the resume? Focus your job objective on the company’s goals and the job position, not your needs and wants.

Education. If you list your education next (you can list your work experience if you think it makes a better impact), be sure to include the name and location of the institution, your course of study, graduation dates (or dates of attendance) and your GPA if itss good.

Work Experience. This is fairly easy with one exception: the dates of employment. That is what usually drives people the craziest. In this section, write out the name of the employer, your title, the dates you were employed and your work-related responsibilities and accomplishments. Consider that anything which relates to your new job should be at the top of your list so the employer reads that first. If you write that you opened the mail when you also supervised 6 people, you have it backwards.

Activities/Honors. These goodies should have a section of their own and should be listed toward the bottom of the page. Again, if it fits with your job objective, list it. If it doesn’t, but it looks good, use it if you have space.

Other. There are other possible sections you might want to add to your resume. They could include foreign languages, computer experience, volunteer work and professional affiliations. If they apply, use them.

References donst even need to be mentioned. Everyone knows that if you are asked for references, you can provide them.

So, now you have everything you need to write your resume. Ok, so you have a great guideline for writing your resume. The rest is up to you, your memory and whatever time it takes to get it all in print.

Yes, itss a bother to have to write a resume, but you have to do it, right? Just get it done. You can do it!

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Professional-Resume-Example.com is a web site devoted to assisting candidates in the job-search process. Carla holds a B.S. in Business from Southern Illinois University and has authored several books. She is currently working on her Master's Degree in Education at Texas A&M University.

Resume Cover Letters are Essential for Job Search Success

2008-04-10T15:29:00.000-07:00

Resume Cover Letters

If you are sending resumes to employers, you need to be sure you are also writing cover letters for those resumes. Writing cover letters for resumes is not difficult, but it is necessary if you intend to make a great impression on prospective employers.

Cover letters are a prelude to the resume. They explain parts of the resume that might need clarification. They start the selling of YOU before the employer even gets to read your actual qualifications. They build up your credentials so that the prospective employer is already interested in getting to know you better.

Some resume experts do not believe that writing cover letters for resumes is important, but there is one thing for certain. It will never work against you. If an employer likes to read cover letters before reading resumes, then you are ahead of the other candidates for the position. If the employer does not care one way or the other, then you have lost nothing by including one.

A cover letter is a great way to prepare and excite the employer about what they will find in the resume. Don't recite what is in the resume, but highlight certain elements of your character, your accomplishments and your background so that the employer is interested in knowing more about you.

There is one awesome thing about writing cover letters for resumes that makes them an essential part of your job search: you can target the job and the employer much better than by simply using a resume alone.

The cover letter should be personalized and directed to each company in which you are interested in working. Point out specific areas of the job that interest you. Explain why working for that particular company is of importance to you. When you add these elements into your cover letters, they will be read more thoroughly and you will be more likely to receive a phone call for a job interview.

There are some people who say that the resume gets read first, then the cover letter. Others say just the opposite. For you, it will not matter as your resume and cover letter will both be targeted to the position you are seeking. It does not matter which one gets read first. Employers like to have both, so you need to provide both.

Writing cover letters for resumes is what differentiates the best job candidates from the rest of the crowd. Yours should convince the employer to grant you an interview.

You can be the success you want to be by working hard and making the extra effort.

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

A Quick Way to get your resume on all the Job Sites

2008-04-06T18:51:00.000-07:00

If you need help distributing your resume to the various career and job websites that accept resume submission, you should seriously consider ResumeRabbit. It saves a lot of time and effort. Instead of you having to create accounts at the 75+ websites, then post your resume in whatever format each particular site expects, ResumeRabbit does it for you. You upload your resume once and they do the rest of the work for you.

One-Stop Resume Posting to Over 75 Career Sites. Click Here

You owe it to yourself to at least take a look at what they have to offer. No cost for looking. It could save you a ton of time when you need it most - while you're starting your job search.

Resume Writing Service

2008-03-22T12:14:00.000-07:00

Announcement

Professional-Resume-Example.com is now offering a Resume Writing Service.

If you are in the job market, you know you need an outstanding resume in order to surpass the competition. You need a professional resume that helps YOU stand out to prospective employers.

Does your resume lack luster? Do you need your resume updated to reflect current information? Are you getting the most from your skills and accomplishments?

A well-crafted resume compels the reader to focus on every word – right to the very end of the resume. That takes immense skill. Using the right keywords makes all the difference. This is exactly what my resume writing service provides.

Not only that, but I only work with one client at a time to ensure the best service possible. My turnaround time is 3-5 days depending upon what needs to be done. Don't wait until the last minute to make sure your resume is prepared for your next job search.

Have your resume written professionally and brilliantly.

The link to the resume writing service page is here: Resume Writing Service

The Best Job Search Web Site

2008-03-15T01:43:00.000-07:00

Just recently, I learned what a job aggregator was. I was searching the net to review current job openings for a client and I came across the neatest site. I really believe it is the best job search web site on the net.

The best job search web site is the site that aggregates (or collects in one place) job openings from various sources. You can go to Monster.com and look at the jobs posted on that site. Then, you can go to CareerBuilder.com and look at the jobs posted on that site. You log in, log out, and generally waste a lot of time doing administrative functions rather than actually searching for a job.

A better choice for searching for the right job is one where you only enter your search one time and you receive all the job openings from the major players, such as Monster.com, CareerBuilder.com and others. There is no fee to use the site. It's free. Search for your perfect job all you want.

You can search in any city you like, too. Want to find a job as a production manager in St. Louis? No problem. Are you searching for a job as a Registered Nurse in Houston? Easy peasy.

I've set up a page on my web site so that you can search directly from there. It's the best job search site I've found - bar none.

Enjoy searching: The Best Job Search Website

Tips for Readable Resumes

2008-03-04T05:37:00.000-08:00

Tips for Readable Resumes

• Give priority to your skills on your resume. Employers want to know what you can do, not just where you have been. This is why scannable resume systems are set up to read skills. Place the important skills at the beginning of the resume where employers can see them first. Also, scannable database systems store a fixed number of skills so that those that come later may not be included in the database. Insure that your skills and occupation-specific keywords match your objective.
• Place your name, address, and phone number with area code in a block format below the top margin. This key information helps interested employers reach you and is the preferred format for scannable systems. Put your name on each page.
• Use generous margins and plenty of white space. One-inch margins enhance the readability of your resume. Balance the body of the resume so that the content is not compressed. For multiple pages, insure that information is balanced over the pages. The final resume should be a high-contrast image - dark ink on white or light colored paper.
• Use vertical and horizontal lines sparingly and include a quarter inch of space around them. (Scanning systems can confuse lines and characters.)
• Avoid graphics and shading. Shading reduces the contrast making text hard to read. Graphics may catch the human eye but do not make sense to scanning systems.
• Use a font size between 10 and 14 points. Limit use of script, italic or underlining. DO NOT highlight information using bold or CAPITAL letters.
• Stapling or folding diminishes the visual appearance of the resume and affects scannability. Avoid fasteners and consider sending your resume flat in a large white envelope.
• Be sure your resume is high quality and professional. Laser print your final copy. Remember, this is your advertisement to employers.
• Choose a typeface (font) that is easily readable rather than decorative: Times New Roman, Arial, Courier New, Century Schoolbook.

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Follow this link for more resume tips: Resume Tips

SHOW - Don't Tell

2008-03-03T05:18:00.000-08:00

Remember being in elementary school? Wasn't it great when you could bring something to school for SHOW AND TELL? Lesson #1: It's great to be able to bring something that no one else has. You get more recognition. Lesson #2: If you show your classmates something, it has significantly more meaning than if you tell them something. They literally have something to touch. It seems more real.

When you tell a prospective employer that you are a good salesperson, it doesn't seem to pack much of a punch. When you show a prospective employer that YOU ARE a good salesperson by sharing stories of your accomplishments, then you have a better chance of making a good impression. Quantify those accomplishments and you are poised to get yourself a job offer.

For instance, if you increased production of the best selling product at your company, by HOW MUCH did you increase it? 15% 20% 25% Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible. Numbers SHOW results.

Your accomplishments are what distinguish you from your competitors in the job-search process. All things being equal, if a hiring manager were looking at two identical prospective employees who could handle the tasks of the job perfectly well, but one had accomplished more than the other, who do you think is going to get a phone call?

Employers are all about results. Employers are all about the bottom line. Show an employer how your accomplishments affected the bottom line in a positive way and you will make a huge impact. In your resume, you have to show the employer why you are the best person for the job. SHOW the employer that you have something to offer that no one else does. Make yourself look better than your competitors. Use descriptive active language to engage the employer when reading your resume. Make your words jump off the page and grab the reader's attention.

At the same time, you have to guide the employer through your resume clearly and professionally so that only one conclusion can be reached: YOU are the best candidate for the job. If you simply state your previous job title and the duties you performed, you are not helping them to SEE who you really are. You're just telling them what you have done before. Quantify your accomplishments and let them see just what you can do for them.

For more information about writing Professional Resumes, follow this link to: Resume Examples

Resume Content

2008-02-25T13:44:00.000-08:00

Resume Content

Name Block
Use your full first name. Avoid using nicknames that are "cutesy" or "pet names." If you have a preference to be called by a shortened version of your full name, then it is acceptable to put this name in parentheses or quotes (e.g., Elizabeth and prefer to be called "Betty"). Your address should not contain abbreviations. Make sure your phone number includes the area code. Also, provide a phone number where you can be reached at all times, either by an answering machine, or an alternate message number. Do not put your name and address on one line for a scannable resume as the computer may be confused by this format. Typing your name in bold, and/or all capitals will make it stand out.

ELIZABETH "BETTY" APPLICANT
1443 Hire Me Lane
Employability, Minnesota 55555
555-555-5555

Employment or Career Objective
Include an objective when you are pursuing a specific job goal, or when you know the exact title of the position for which you are applying. The objective targets your resume, but also limits its use to those jobs that match your goal. Therefore, the objective may be considered an optional part of your resume. If you do not include an objective, be sure to state it in your cover letter. Summary of Qualifications and Accomplishments A summary of your qualifications and accomplishments highlights skills that support your job goals. It can include key skills, employment related accomplishments, and personal attributes.

Employment History
List your most recent employment first. A general standard is, "List the last three jobs, or the last 10 years, whichever comes first." Focus on recent jobs and those that are most appropriate to your goals. If you have large gaps in employment, or have changed jobs frequently, consider using a functional resume. How you use your resume and the makeup of your experience, will determine the amount of information to include. Many job seekers, and employers, use the resume as a substitute application (this is very useful if the application works against your qualifications). As a substitute application the resume should include employer contact information. Many resumes list only employer name, city and state. Contact information is provided through an employment application or reference sheet. One advantage in limiting this information is to keep the resume focused on your qualifications. Also, some people may not want a prospective employer to be able to easily reach a previous employer. Ultimately the choice is yours. There is no one standard that fits all situations.

Organizations
List organizational memberships related to your job goal and show professional standing. Avoid using non-employment related or controversial organizations. Generally, it is best NOT to mention specific religious or political affiliations, or other potentially controversial groups, unless they directly relate to the job you want.

Awards or Recognition
Let the employer know of any awards or recognition you have received, (e.g., employee of the month, etc.), if it is timely and appropriate.

Education
If your skill and experience come from employment, then list employment first and education last. List education first, if the emphasis is on education, i.e., a recent graduate. If you are a college graduate, state the name of the institution, location (city and state), degree earned, and field of study.

Additional Points to Consider Regarding Education
• Carefully consider listing the dates you graduated from school. List the dates of recent education because it increases its value. Older educational experiences may not be valued by the reader and can be used in age discrimination.
• Do not list High School graduation if you have completed a college degree. If you have taken post high school classes, but did not achieve a degree, then list your high school.
• When listing recent education, target specific skills and academic accomplishments.
• A GED can be listed as a High School graduate. If the GED was achieved through a local school, then list the name of that school. Otherwise, leave off the name of the school. Or you may choose to list the last school attended or the school district name.
• Do not include an education section if you dropped out of high school and had no formal training either in school or from an employer.
• Include relevant employer sponsored training. Be sure that the training is targeted to your job goal and is attention getting to a new employer. Summarize extensive employer training by type and only include training that is relevant to a new job.
• If you have conducted a thorough independent study into a job-related topic, then you may summarize it as part of your education.
• If you are currently taking classes or pursuing a degree related to your job goal, then include them in the resume. List the skills acquired, academic accomplishments, and the projected date of completion.

Military
Include military experience that fills gaps in employment or supports your job goal as part of your work history. "Civilianize" your military language, (e.g., NCOIC to Supervisor).

Hobbies/Personal Interests
Include hobbies/personal interests if they are employment related, they are not controversial, and they show skill and experience.

References
Do not include references on the resume. Do not use the statement, "References available upon request." It is assumed by most employers that you will provide them with this information. Once an employer requests references, be prepared to give them 3 to 5 references who can speak about your work habits and professional qualifications. Always seek permission before using someone as a reference.

To review the Resume Outline in more depth, follow this link: Resume Outline

Job Skills Identification

2008-02-22T19:41:00.000-08:00

Job Skills Identification
Looking for work is selling a product. A successful job search is a sales and marketing campaign. The most effective job seekers use sales techniques in their job search to set themselves apart from the competition. The sooner you apply sales strategies to your job search the sooner you will begin to see results in your search for employment. To successfully sell a product a salesperson must first know exactly what that product can do. The same is true for your job search. Employers do not just want to know where you have been and what your job titles were. They want to know what you can do. If you were looking to purchase a product that would cost you thousands of dollars annually you too would want to know what it can do.
Consider a major purchase you made or are planning to make: a car, appliances, a computer or stereo equipment. If you are a smart consumer you will shop around. You ask questions. You want to know exactly what each product can do and what sets it apart from the competition. It is the salesperson's job to convince you that their product is the best. If they are unfamiliar with the product, or are not sold on the product themselves, there is little hope they will be able to sell you. This is why salespeople spend many hours learning their products. This is also why you need to invest time in identifying your skills.

Skills are the performance specifications of your product - you.

The average person has between 500 and 800 skills! You need to identify those skills that are the most attractive to potential employers. Many people have a hard time identifying their skills, because we often define skills too narrowly. Do not think of a skill as something that requires years of formal education and experience to develop. A skill is anything you can do right now!

Job Skills
Job skills are those skills specific to a job or occupation. A secretary, for example, might be skilled in typing, word processing, filing, answering telephones and company correspondence. An accountant might list accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, taxes, using a 10-key and computer accounting programs. A salesperson might include customer service, record keeping, order processing, inventory management, billing and product displays. Ultimately, job skills need to be stated in specific terms. For example, computer skills should be identified by the specific programs used.

Job skills are important to employers for obvious reasons. They are the specific skills employers look for in a candidate. Job skills do not always come from employment. You may have also developed job skills through education, hobbies, community activities and life experiences.

Self-Management Skills
These are skills you use day to day to get along with others or to survive. They are the skills that make you unique. Sincerity, reliability, tactfulness, patience, flexibility, timeliness, or tolerance are all examples of self-management skills. Employers look for these skills to determine how a candidate will fit into the organization. How a person will "fit in" is an important consideration for employers.

Transferable Skills
Many skills can transfer from one job or occupation to another. For most job seekers it is very unlikely they will find a job that is identical to their previous employment. Therefore, it is critical for a successful job seeker to carefully evaluate how their skills transfer into other opportunities.

Duties
Many people have trouble distinguishing between their duties and skills. Duties are the basic functions of an activity, while skills are the tools to accomplish those functions. Duties or functions are a part of any organized activity whether it is employment, volunteer work or hobbies.

A simple example is the management of a lemonade stand. The basic duties might include production, marketing, distribution and financial management. There are many skills needed to accomplish these functions, including: mixing, measuring, planning, sales, customer service, writing, cash handling, record keeping, maintenance, dependability, accuracy and motivation. This list of skills could go on and on.
Writing out the duties or functions of an activity first can be a useful way to begin identifying skills. When presenting your skills to an employer it is best to tie them to specific activities.

Accomplishments
An effective salesperson will not only describe the specifications of a product; they will promote its performance. They will also note examples of success and customer satisfaction. Your accomplishments are your record of success. Along with where and when, employers want to know how you used those skills. They want to hear how you excelled in your performance. Accomplishments can be the edge that sets you apart from the competition.

Brought to you by: www.professional-resume-example.com

Professional Affiliations in Resumes

2008-02-05T13:29:00.000-08:00

I recently received a question from a gentleman that I thought would be good to include in this blog for more people to read. I was helping him create a resume targeted to a new industry. The question is about including information from one's past that looks good, but isn’t quite relevant to the current resume or the job being targeted.

Question:

I want to list a professional affiliation on my resume even though it isn't related to my current career path. I'm proud of the work I have done with this group. What do you think?

My response:

Does it positively affect your "bid" for the new position you are targeting? Will most hiring managers even know what that membership is? If I were a future employer of someone in your current chosen field, would it matter to me that you were a board member of that particular organization?

I'm asking these questions because it is my job to focus the resume on a specific job target. If you were targeting employment in the specific field that the professional affiliation would support, then absolutely, that would be essential. Because you are targeting a different field entirely, it is not important. Well, that isn't exactly true. Yes, it is important to you, but it's not important to prospective employers.

Your resume MUST be tightly focused on one field - one target - one goal.

Each resume must be refined not only to include everything that leads an employer to conclude that you are perfect for the job, but it must also exclude anything that prevents the employer from reaching that conclusion.

~Carla Vaughan
Professional Resumes

Interview Thank You Note

2008-02-03T06:25:00.000-08:00

Interview Thank You Note

After your interview, be sure to write a thank you note to the employer or interviewer. This is very important because a thank you note gives you one more chance to remind the employer about the special skills that you can bring to the company.

It is a good idea to request the interviewer's business card before leaving the interview. This will help when writing your thank you note to correctly spell the interviewer's name and job title.

Tips for thank you notes:
Neatly hand write or type the note.
Address the note to the interviewer or the lead interviewer.
Keep it short. (No longer than one page.)

First paragraph: Thank the employer for the interview. Also, mention that you are interested in the position.

Second paragraph: Briefly state a few of your skills without repeating the information on your resume word for word. Include any important information not mentioned at the interview.

Third paragraph: Provide your contact information, telephone number with area code, and an e-mail address, if available.

Sign the note with your first and last name.
Proofread the note to check for spelling or grammar errors. Ask another person to proofread the note.
Mail the note within two to three days after your interview.

For more information about job interviewing, follow this link: Job Interviews

Have a great day.

Goals and How to Achieve Them

2008-01-04T20:08:00.000-08:00

Goals and How to Achieve Them

What goals are right for you? The answer depends upon what you want to achieve in life. Do you have goals for the future? Do you have a goal to get a new job? If so, what kind of job? Is your resume prepared? Does it have a goal?

For most people, life just "happens". There is no plan to achieve wealth, career success or financial security. Life just passes by day by day. We all hope for the best and gripe when things don't go our way. Wouldn't it make more sense to make a plan?

If you spend more time planning your next dinner menu than you do defining your goals and dreams, then you are missing out on an amazing opportunity to enrich your life.

If you don't set goals, you have nothing to focus your energy and time on, thus you end up wasting your life on things that have little or no value. Announcing to the world that you want to be a pediatrician means nothing unless you follow that goal up with a solid action plan.

How do you set goals so that you can achieve more in life?

Make them small enough that they are achievable. Then, break them down into tasks so that you can measure your success and ensure you are on track.

The reason most people don't set goals is because they're afraid that they will fail. Well, most folks do fail to achieve a goal (really a task along the way to a goal), but that doesn't mean you have to give up on the goal. Re-evaluate and move on. Don't quit.

If you happen to have a goal of getting a new job this coming year, take a look at this site and heed it's advice. It's worth your time.

Professional Resumes

Share Your Job Interview Experience

2007-12-17T06:06:00.000-08:00

Job interviews are different for each of us. The success of a job interview isn't always dependent upon your skills or how well you dress. Sometimes it just depends upon how well you get along with the person interviewing you.

Have you ever been to an interview when everything seemed to go wrong? Did you ever watch someone crash and burn in an interview (or even before the interview started)?

We'd like to hear your stories.

Share your job interview experiences - good and bad.

Job Interview Experience

We want to know. If your story is good, we'll publish it on the site. Thousands of visitors to the site will have access to it every day.

Professional Resume Samples

2007-11-16T04:52:00.000-08:00

I've added some resume samples (resume examples) to my web site. I'll be adding more as I create them. No copyrighted material here... just honest, real, original resume information.

Accountant Resume Sample

Recruiter Resume Sample

School Principal Resume Sample

Sales Manager Resume Sample

I have more on the site and I'll list them here later. This will at least give you an idea of what's to come. :)

~Carla Vaughan

Resume Samples

2007-09-23T12:49:00.000-07:00

In the not-too-distant future, I plan to start adding Resume Samples to my web site. I have held off on this for quite a long time, but the need is pressing and there are many sites which offer too little information when it comes to resume samples.

If you have any suggestions as to which resume samples you would like to see, please contact me at my resume web site. I will be covering most of the major industries and professions, but if there is something you would like to see right away, please feel free to let me know.

I really hope this new section on my site proves helpful.

Professional-Resume-Example.com

Employment Agencies

2007-08-05T17:13:00.000-07:00

Employment agencies are another excellent job search resource. Agencies come in a variety of sizes and shapes. They may be private, public or government - profit or nonprofit. Some specialize in service to specific groups of people and have eligibility requirements. Others serve the general public. The job seeker may be the primary customer, but it may also be the employer. Many agencies focus on serving the employer by providing qualified applicants while others focus on the applicant by helping them find quality jobs. All these factors will influence the service that a job seeker can expect to receive.

The types of services offered will also vary. Here is a description of some common services:

Placement Assistance - Many employers list their job leads with agencies. The agency then recruits, screens and refers qualified applicants to the employer for consideration. The amount of screening will vary. Some will only refer the most qualified while others will post the position on a bulletin board and the applicant may self refer.

Temporary and Contract Placement - More employers are turning to temporary and contact agencies to meet their labor needs. Some employers use this as a way to try new employees before they make a decision on permanent employment. Others have a short term need that is best met through this service. Temporary jobs can work into permanent employment and are a way to build skills and meet financial needs while looking for other opportunities.

Job Search Assistance - Teaching job search skills so that people can successfully find their own jobs is a valuable service. This may include workshops and materials on a variety of job search topics. A subset to this is agencies specializing in resume writing. Usually for a fee, they will help people draft their resume.

Career Planning Assistance - Choosing a career is a big task that requires self assessment, a knowledge of employment trends and training opportunities. Career counselors/advisors can help in this effort. They usually offer aptitude, interest and skill testing and work with people to match their potential to employment opportunities.

Job seekers working with employment agencies should be wise consumers. It is important to know exactly what services you can expect and what will be expected of you. You should also find out what it will cost. Some fee agencies will charge the employer while others collect fees from the job seeker. Here are some additional tips:

• In all dealings, treat agencies as you would a potential employer. In the case of temporary and contract agencies they are employers. From the others you will receive better service if you follow this advice.
• Use the services of agencies but do not make them your primary job search tool or use them exclusively. Take ownership of your career and your job search. Don't think that since you have an agency working for you that you can sit back and wait.
• Know exactly what you can expect from the agency. Consider who is their primary customer. The type of service you receive will be influenced by whether the primary customer is the employer or the job seeker. If the primary customer is the employer then it is especially important to sell the agency on your skills and qualifications.
• Consider what is the primary business of the agency. The service they provide may be influenced by a need to support a larger goal. Post-high school training institutions providing career counseling are an excellent example. Their career counselors may not only be working to guide your career exploration but may also be driven to sell their training programs.
• Know exactly what the agency will expect from you. Some placement, temporary and contract agencies expect an exclusive relationship. They limit your ability to seek employment on your own. Most agencies expect you to make yourself available. If you turn down more than a couple of opportunities they may not be as quick to consider you for future opportunities.
• If you are receiving government assistance, such as Reemployment Insurance Benefits (Unemployment Insurance), know the effect of short-term wages and the consequences of turning down job opportunities. Short-term wages may affect eligibility and benefit amounts. However, they may also extend the length of time that benefits can be received. Contact your local provider for clarification before accepting or rejecting a specific opportunity.

From the following web site:
http://cl.idaho.gov/cjs/cjsbook/process6.htm

Brought to you by: Professional Resume Examples

What to Project to Employers in a Resume

2007-07-31T18:07:00.000-07:00

If you want to be considered for a job, you have to market yourself as though you already have the job... or at least have the skills to do the job well. The employer wants to hire someone who can easily slip into the position without a lot of training or adjustments needed to get a new employee up to speed. If you can show the employer that you can "hit the ground running", then you will fare better in the interview than other job candidates.

The thing is that you have to get to that interview first and that takes a stellar resume. This is the point where you have to show the employer that you are a perfect match for the job - and the company.

If you are looking at a small ad in a newspaper, or even a decent sized ad on Monster.com, you don't always know exactly what is going to be expected of you, right? So how do you know what to put on your resume?

First, one caveat - don't lie on your resume. Don't put anything on your resume that you have not done or accomplished. It will come back to haunt you at some point. The advice I have, however, involves researching what other people are putting on their resumes as well as what other companies are looking for in their new employees.

Do some research.

Search for jobs just like the one you are applying for. How do other companies word their ads? Is there anything you can glean from the ad that might be useful to put on your own resume? Maybe you forgot that you accomplished a certain goal and the ad brings it back to mind. Add it to your resume. That's the whole point of reading this other material. Make sure your resume points out your best skills and ablities.

Search for other resumes on the net and see how they word things. Don't copy, but again, you might find that there is something they have listed that you have also done, but failed to mention.

Making sure you include as much as possible on your resume - THAT FITS WITH WHAT THE EMPLOYER IS LOOKING FOR - is vital to your success.

Do your research and project that on your resume to employers. Your chances will be much better.

Brought to you by: Professional Resumes

An Interview Tidbit

2007-07-24T07:53:00.000-07:00

When interviewing, it is important to reflect your responsibilities in ways that allow the employer to create a mental picture about what you are capable of doing.

This is done by telling stories, or anecdotes. Stories show the employer what you are capable of doing rather than just telling them.

Look at this situation:
The interviewer asks the same question of candidates #1, #2 and #3: "Have you ever been in a situation when you have had to soothe an employee who felt as though he’d been treated unjustly by a co-worker?"

Candidate #1 responds: "Well, I remember doing that once, but it was a nightmare."

Candidate #2 responds: "Yes, I listened considerately until he finished venting."

Candidate #3 responds: "Yes, I have been in that situation before. In fact, not long ago, a co-worker in an office next to mine was angry that her boss was asking her to stay late 3 days in a row. I asked her to come to my office for some coffee and we worked out a way for the two of us to share the work load so that we both could get home at a decent hour."

For more information, click on this link: Interview Anecdotes

When Moms Return to the Workforce

2007-07-20T19:28:00.000-07:00

If you have ever had an extended period of time away from working, then returning to the workforce can be a daunting prospect. Whether you took time off to have a baby, or looked after an ill relative, or even go traveled for a while, thinking about returning to the workforce can seem scary. You know that the business world moves fast and things can change quickly.

If, for instance, you left the workforce to have a baby, and you have perhaps taken a couple of years off until your toddler has reached kindergarten age, then you may be worried that you have a lot of time to try make up. Most women agree that the biggest concerns they have when trying to return to the workforce include:

• The work experience they had built up is no longer current
• Confidence may be lower due to extended time away from people
• Business software and systems have changed rapidly since the last time they worked

Although these can certainly offer some obstructions, that doesn't mean to say that they will prevent you from returning to the workforce. All you need is some ideas to help get you back into the flow of things.

Work Experience:

Although you may feel that you are lacking relevant work experience due to the fact you’ve been away from the workplace for a while, you might be surprised to find out you couldn't be further from the truth – you just need to know what to focus on.

For instance, you may wish to go back to work as an administrative assistant or office manager but are afraid that your skills aren't up to scratch with the current climate. However, just think about what you've done while staying at home to raise your child – budgeting the everyday household costs; birthday party planning; using your computer to help with bills, etc. All this is classed as time management, and is exactly what office managers and administrative assistants are hired for!

If you include this information on your resume under the heading "Summary of Qualifications", you'll be pleasantly surprised how many employers take notice of this. And if you do charity work, include this too, as it shows someone who is a self-starter.

Lacking Confidence and/or Self-Esteem

One of the biggest problems to overcome when trying to return to the workforce is overcoming a lack of confidence. If you feel that you no longer have the skills to do the job you once did, or a new one altogether, it will dent your confidence, and in turn affect your self-esteem as you ignore job adverts that you'd otherwise go for.

However, if you agree with how your home experience translates to the workplace, then overcoming that low confidence will no longer be an issue.

To help you even more, when putting together your new resume, take the time to list all your strengths and positives; the more successful you realize you have been, and still are, the more confident you'll feel about yourself.

Knowing About Current Software

Even if you use a computer at home every day while you are away from the workplace, it still won't really prepare you for the newer software that businesses are using these days, but don’t let that put you off. There are thousands of online courses, as well as training opportunities at your local college, that can bring you back up-to-date with what's current. And the great thing is, you'll be more qualified to go back into an even better job you had before.

Whatever qualms you might have about returning to work, accepting that you're more knowledgeable than you think will help you get into a job you really enjoy.

Legal Zoom

2007-07-18T22:19:00.001-07:00

Get forms and advice FAST and CHEAP!

Quick and Painless Resume Distribution

2007-07-08T16:03:00.000-07:00

If you want an easy way to distribute your resume, consider Pongo Resume. Their fees are extremely low.

Get your resume OUT THERE!

Good Economic News

2007-07-06T15:32:00.000-07:00

Economic news was good overall as Americans celebrated the nation's birthday. June's unemployment rate was unchanged as service industries continued to add workers to payrolls. Indexes of both the manufacturing and service sectors rose in June to their highest levels since early 2006.

Manufacturing, service sectors steam ahead
U.S. manufacturers and service companies continued to show sustained strength as both indexes measured by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) climbed to their highest levels since April 2006.

The ISM Index of manufacturing rose 1 point to 56.0 in June. Upticks in new orders and productivity helped fuel the gain as the index moved higher for the third straight month.

per Vanguard: Vanguard Economic News

Brought to you by: How to Write a Professional Resume

~

5 Quick Resume Steps

2007-07-04T20:26:00.000-07:00

Step 1
– Write down the last three jobs you have held and the following information for each one:
Name of Employer, City and State
Dates Employed
Position(s) held
Responsibilities
Accomplishments (what did you do that made you so great)

Step 2
– Where did you go to school? (List college(s) or high school if you have no college experience)
Name of Institution
Dates Attended
Degree conferred or area of study GPA (if over 3.0 on a 4.0 scale)

Step 3
– List any awards, honors, publications, foreign languages, or anything else that might make a difference to your next employer

Step 4
– Write down what you want to do at your next job (job target or objective)

Step 5
– Time to put it all together. At the top of the resume, you will list your name, address, city, state, zip code and phone number. Proofread it about 100 times to make sure it is right. If the prospective employer can't reach you, you have no hope of getting a job.

Click here for more information

Top 200 In Demand Jobs

2007-06-13T19:07:00.000-07:00

Team Assemblers
Computer Support Specialists
Helpers-Production Workers
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Production and Operating Workers
Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Technical and Scientific Products
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers
Machinists
Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders
Mechanical Engineers
Helpers-Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers
Industrial Engineers
Engineering Managers
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians
Electrical Engineers
Industrial Machinery Mechanics
Electronics Engineers, Except Computer
Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Chemists
Industrial Production Managers
Sales Engineers
Mechanical Drafters
Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment
Maintenance Workers, Machinery
Industrial Engineering Technicians
Chemical Technicians
Mechanical Engineering Technicians
Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
Chemical Engineers
Electrical and Electronics Drafters
Fiberglass Laminators and Fabricators
Environmental Engineering Technicians
Materials Engineers
Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers
Machinists
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Transportation and Material-Moving Machine and Vehicle Operators
Industrial Engineers
Engineering Managers
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
Electronics Engineers, Except Computer
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Aerospace Engineers
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters
Industrial Engineering Technicians
Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
Air Traffic Controllers
Fiberglass Laminators and Fabricators
Materials Engineers
Avionics Technicians
Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians
Retail Salespersons
Team Assemblers
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Retail Sales Workers
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Production and Operating Workers
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
Machinists
Helpers-Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers
Industrial Engineers
Automotive Body and Related Repairers
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Helpers, Laborers, and Material Movers, Hand
Tire Repairers and Changers
Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines
Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Mechanical Drafters
Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters
Maintenance Workers, Machinery
Industrial Engineering Technicians
Millwrights
Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door
Fiberglass Laminators and Fabricators
Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers
Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles
Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Technical and Scientific Products
Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Chemists
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
Biological Technicians
Industrial Engineering Technicians
Chemical Technicians
Separating, Filtering, Clarifying, Precipitating, and Still Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Chemical Engineers
Biochemists and Biophysicists
Microbiologists
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
Agricultural and Food Science Technicians
Biomedical Engineers
Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand
Carpenters
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers
Electricians
Construction Laborers
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators
Painters, Construction and Maintenance
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers
Construction Managers
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
Cost Estimators
Civil Engineers
Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers
Sheet Metal Workers
Roofers
Helpers—Carpenters
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Helpers, Laborers, and Material Movers, Hand
Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers
Helpers-Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Helpers-Electricians
Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters
Construction and Building Inspectors
Brickmasons and Blockmasons
Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines
Architects, Except Landscape and Naval
Architectural and Civil Drafters
Helpers-Brickmasons, Blockmasons, Stonemasons, and Tile and Marble Setters
Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Civil Engineering Technicians
Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators
Surveyors
Mechanical Drafters
Structural Iron and Steel Workers
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters
Environmental Engineers
Tile and Marble Setters
Carpet Installers
Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators
Millwrights
Glaziers
Plasterers and Stucco Masons
Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Helpers-Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons
Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall
Crane and Tower Operators
Tapers
Helpers-Roofers
Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Workers
Electrical and Electronics Drafters
Health and Safety Engineers, Except Mining Safety Engineers and Inspectors
Elevator Installers and Repairers
Boilermakers
Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand
Truck Drivers, Heavy and Tractor-Trailer
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers
Electricians
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Computer Support Specialists
Helpers-Production Workers
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Production and Operating Workers
Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers
Helpers-Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers
Civil Engineers
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Helpers, Laborers, and Material Movers, Hand
Electrical Engineers
Helpers-Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Industrial Machinery Mechanics
Helpers-Electricians
Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers
Civil Engineering Technicians
Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators
Surveyors
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
Environmental Engineers
Hazardous Materials Removal Workers
Maintenance Workers, Machinery
Pipelayers
Mechanical Engineering Technicians
Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists
Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
Separating, Filtering, Clarifying, Precipitating, and Still Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Chemical Engineers
Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health
Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door
Electrical and Electronics Drafters
Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators
Roustabouts, Oil and Gas
Environmental Engineering Technicians
Boilermakers
Nuclear Engineers
Hydrologists

How To Write a Professional Resume

2007-06-10T20:42:00.000-07:00

How To Write a Professional Resume

One of the things that makes resume writing difficult is not having all of the information you need in one place at one time. If you are searching on the internet, you may first search for resume formats or resume examples, or you might search for templates and guidelines, but after awhile, it becomes frustrating to collect all of the information in one place so that you can look at a resume example while following along with a set of guidelines.

I wrote "How to Write a Professional Resume" to help job seekers handle this and a variety of other issues – by providing all of the information in one place at one time.

Everyone needs help finding their way through the job search process More than that, the book takes you through the resume writing process step-by-step. You can see how one person turns a blank piece of paper into a professional resume one step at a time.

One of the reasons this book works so well is that it provides worksheets and forms to guide you through the process. It is much different from other resume books on the market because it doesn't just throw a bunch of resume examples at you and ask you to turn your qualifications into a similar format. That doesn't work.

You need to know what works and you need to see it in action so that your resume is an excellent representation of your skills and experience.

To find out more about this book and how it can make a huge difference in your career, click here: How to Write a Professional Resume

Quick Resume Creation

2007-05-26T16:32:00.000-07:00

Make A Resume Online, $9.95 - Create & Customize Your Resume Using Templates. Quick and Easy.

If you are looking for a quick resume fix and need help creating your resume - BUT - you don't want to pay an arm and a leg, click on the link above. You can create a professional-looking resume quickly and inexpensively.

My website offers a lot of information if you want to create a resume yourself and not pay anything, but sometimes it is easier to just fill in the blanks, which I do understand.

So, check out my site if you want a lot of great resume-related information. It's free. If you want to create a resume with prompts and guides, then click on the link above. :)

Professional Resumes

Making Your Resume Stand Out

2007-05-24T17:07:00.000-07:00

How can a resume stand out without standing out so much that it gets tossed in the trash can? Tough question and there isn't an easy answer, but there are some things you can certainly do to make your resume look as awesome as possible without alienating a prospective employer.

First, load your resume with keywords. Ok, let me rephrase that. Load might not be the best word. Inject keywords into your resume to embolden it. Use words that show action as well as words which are common to your particular field. Many companies use software to review resumes and search for keywords. If your resume doesn't have the right ones or have them in the right amounts, you won't get selected for an interview.

Second, make sure you use a job objective to clarify exactly what it is you are looking for and how you will be an asset to the organization. Don't assume it will be clear to someone who reads your resume. Be clear and be concise.

Third, use white space to your advantage. Don't make your resume so verbose that it wearies the eyes of the reader. Allow for breaks between paragraphs and sections.

Fourth and last, use the best quality paper that you can afford. Actually, if you can't afford outstanding paper, find someone from whom you can borrow money and buy the best paper you can find. It will be worth it. No one will take a resume seriously if it is on 20 plain white paper. Make it look good - and that means white, opaque, linen paper.

So, now you have a pretty good idea of what you need to do to make sure your resume looks as good as possible.

For more information, check out: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Writing a Job Objective

2007-05-21T16:40:00.000-07:00

Writing a job objective is a very personal exercise. While I can offer some suggestions, you will have to create your own job objective based on your career goals, past experience and employment opportunities.

The objective section of the resume is where you briefly explain how you will be an asset to the organization. It's not about you. It's about what you can do for the employer.

If you focus the job objective on your own needs, the employer is going to make the assumption that you will not be willing to align your goals with the organization's goals.

When writing a job objective statement for a resume, it is important to realize that you should tailor that to each position and each organization to which you apply for a job. Include some of the key words from the job ad or vacancy statement you read. Not only will that get the employer's attention, but it will also benefit you if the organization uses a scanner to "read" resumes. Having the right keywords in your resume are essential if the prospective employer utilizes this technology. You won't necessarily know if an employer scans resumes or not, so using keywords are important and can only help you.

Keep it short and to the point. The rest of your resume will explain everything in greater detail and anything that needs further clarification can be handled in the cover letter.

Brought to you by Professional-Resume-Example.com

Your Resume and Your Personality

2007-05-06T19:44:00.000-07:00

Does Your Resume Have Any Personality?

Sure, you have plenty of personality, but are you able to convey that in your resume?

Take a look at your resume and read it through like a professional hiring manager would. Is it interesting? Is it boring? Would you fall asleep if you had to read your own resume at 10:00 p.m. at night (like some human resource professionals have to do)?

Creating a resume that gets read from top to bottom is not easy. To do so means you have to interject active, vibrant language throughout your resume. That doesn’t mean you need to use a lot of jargon or slang; quite the contrary. Flowery speech will get your resume tossed out. Words that show enthusiasm, confidence, responsibility and accomplishments are what will keep a reader glued to your resume.

Let your personality show through your resume and your cover letter. So many resumes are dull and lifeless. No wonder they’re so painful to read sometimes. Let the prospective employer know that you enjoy your line of work and that you feel great about going to work each day. (If that isn’t the case, you probably need to evaluate the possibility of a career change).

Your resume has to be professional, but it does not have to be boring. Add some interest by changing out a few words here and there. Show some energy and excitement about your chosen career field. By doing so, you will let the employer know that you want the job and that, by inference, you’ll work hard and be successful.

After all, happy employees are productive employees. If you like what you do, you’ll probably do a much better job than someone who hates it, right?

So, show your personality in your resume. Make it interesting. The employer will thank you.

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Are you considering changing careers?

2007-04-28T18:48:00.000-07:00

Changing Careers?

Are you considering changing careers?

There are times when you reach a plateau and need to change your career path if you are to achieve your dreams. For some people, a change is brought about when a family is started.

Regardless of the reasons involved, make sure the change is well-thought out. Taking your work-life in a new direction has its own pros and cons. Be sure you know what all is involved.

If it's truly time to switch career tracks, the ideas below offer some excellent advice for updating your resume to reflect the new direction your career will be taking.

As you know, your resume has to be outstanding. When changing careers, your skills and achievements may not perfectly fit into your new position, so you have to pay especially close attention to the format you use and the words you choose to define yourself.

First, select a resume format that best highlights your skills, accomplishments and abilities. Most likely, this will be a functional format. The reason is that it is far better for career-changers. Why? You have the ability to place more emphasis on the work you have done and the accomplishments you have achieved rather than on the employers, education and dates the work was done.

It does make a difference. Be sure to list your achievements near the top of the page. Let the hiring manager see what you have to offer instead of what your job title was or where you worked. List your skills below that. There are many places where you can see what a Functional Resume Format looks like, including the site listed below.

While important on some level, who you worked for is not of as much value (unless is it a major corporation) for the simple reason that you are changing from that field or industry to another one. What you did while you were an employee there is only valuable if it relates to the new position you are seeking. Why?

Let's say you for Safe Pest Control as a graphics designer for their product labels and now you want to re-focus your career in a new direction. Now, you want to be a graphic artist for a craft magazine. While the two involve artistic abilities, many of the tasks and responsibilities will not be the same.

Placing those skills and aptitudes where the prospective employer can see them first, is vital, especially when you remember that your resume gets scanned, not read. You have to grab the reader's attention right away or you won't grab it at all.

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

The Best Resume WINS

2007-04-26T16:39:00.000-07:00

In today's competitive job market, a well-written resume is the single most important factor in getting your foot in the door and on your way to landing the perfect position.

How does your resume look? Is it well-written? Is it concise and focused?

You can have a professional resume. Resume BUILDER and PUBLISHER gives you the tools to create, print, e-mail and fax your resume, quickly and easily, all in one convenient location - online!

Pongo Resume - Create. Publish. The best resume wins.

Get expert guidance on writing your resume: industry and occupation-specific advice and recommendations for your personal career situation, at no extra cost. This is a great opportunity to fine-tune your resume - or create one from scratch, if necessary.

Pongo Software delivers awesome web based career advancement tools for job seekers all over the world. They deliver the technology behind the most advanced resume writing, cover letter and activity tracking software used by job seekers.

Pongo Resume - Great resumes lead to great jobs. Free trial.

Just remember: The Best Resume Wins!

Where to Learn About Job Openings

2007-04-23T14:25:00.000-07:00

Where to Learn About Job Openings
Personal contacts - Eighty percent of available jobs are never advertised, and over half of all employees get their jobs through networking, according to BH Careers International. Therefore, the people you know—friends, family, neighbors, acquaintances, teachers, and former coworkers—are some of the most effective resources for your job search. The network of people that you know and the people that they know can lead to information about specific job openings that are not publicly posted. To develop new contacts, join student, community, or professional organizations.

School career planning and placement offices - High school and college placement offices help their students and alumni find jobs. They allow recruiters to use their facilities for interviews or career fairs. Placement offices usually have a list of part-time, temporary, and summer jobs offered on campus. They also may have lists of jobs for regional, nonprofit, and government organizations. In addition to linking you to potential employers, career planning offices usually provide career counseling, career testing, and job search advice. Some have career resource libraries; host workshops on job search strategy, résumé writing, letter writing, and effective interviewing; critique drafts of résumés; conduct mock interviews; and sponsor job fairs.

Employers - Through your library and Internet research, develop a list of potential employers in your desired career field. Employer Web sites often contain lists of job openings. Web sites and business directories can provide you with information on how to apply for a position or whom to contact. Even if no open positions are posted, do not hesitate to contact the employer and the relevant department. Set up an interview with someone working in the same area in which you wish to work. Ask them how they got started, what they like and dislike about the work, what type of qualifications are necessary for the job, and what type of personality succeeds in that position. Even if they don’t have a position available, they may be able to put you in contact with other people who might hire you, and they can keep you in mind if a position opens up. Make sure to send them your résumé and a cover letter. If you are able to obtain an interview, be sure to send a thank-you note. Directly contacting employers is one of the most successful means of job hunting.

Classified ads - The "Help Wanted" ads in newspapers list numerous jobs. You should realize, however, that many other job openings are not listed, and that the classified ads sometimes do not give all of the important information. They may offer little or no description of the job, working conditions, or pay. Some ads do not identify the employer. They may simply give a post office box to which you can mail your résumé, making follow-up inquiries very difficult. Some ads offer out-of-town jobs; others advertise employment agencies rather than actual employment opportunities.

Internet networks and resources - The Internet is an invaluable resource. Use it to find advice on conducting your job search more effectively; to search for a job; to research prospective employers; and to communicate with people who can help you with your job search. No single Web site will contain all the information available on employment or career opportunities, so in addition to the Web sites listed below, use a search engine to find what you need. The different types of sites that may be useful include general career advice sites, job search sites, company Web sites, trade and professional association Web sites, and forums. Internet forums, also called message boards, are online discussion groups where anyone may post and read messages. Use forums specific to your profession or to career-related topics to post questions or messages and to read about other peoples’ job searches or career experiences.

State employment service offices - The State employment service, sometimes called the Job Service, operates in coordination with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. Local offices, found nationwide, help job seekers to find jobs and help employers to find qualified workers at no cost to either. To find the office nearest you, look in the State government telephone listings under "Job Service" or "Employment."

Federal Government - Information on obtaining a position with the Federal Government is available from the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) through USAJOBS, the Federal Government’s official employment information system. This resource for locating and applying for job opportunities can be accessed through the Internet at http://www.usajobs.opm.gov or through an interactive voice response telephone system at (703) 724-1850 or TDD (978) 461-8404. These numbers are not tollfree, and charges may result.

Private employment agencies and career consultants - These agencies can be helpful, but they may charge you for their services. Most operate on a commission basis, with the fee dependent upon a percentage of the salary paid to a successful applicant. You or the hiring company will pay the fee. Find out the exact cost and who is responsible for paying associated fees before using the service.

Although employment agencies can help you save time and contact employers who otherwise might be difficult to locate, the costs may outweigh the benefits if you are responsible for the fee. Contacting employers directly often will generate the same type of leads that a private employment agency will provide. Consider any guarantees that the agency offers when determining if the service is worth the cost.

Community agencies - Many nonprofit organizations, including religious institutions and vocational rehabilitation agencies, offer counseling, career development, and job placement services, generally targeted to a particular group, such as women, youths, minorities, ex-offenders, or older workers.

This information was obtained from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. For more information, follow this link: BLS

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Do You Want to Get the Right Job?

2007-04-21T20:20:00.000-07:00

Do You Want to Get the Right Job?

Your resume and cover letter can be very helpful in getting the right job, but how do you go about finding that perfect job in the first place?

There are many situations where people are headed down one career path and find themselves given another opportunity altogether that is even better than the one they initially chose. Other times, someone may interview for one position, but the hiring manager thinks your skills and accomplishments fit better with a different position.

Don't rule out a job or a career path just because it was not what you were initially considering.

Many people start off in one career and decide later in life to pursue another career or even their hobby. The experience almost always is more enjoyable and more profitable. Whether you create the opportunity yourself, it falls into your lap or are given direction by someone else, you should always be open to the possibilities around you. Your dream career might not be what you anticipated when you start your job search. It might be something you haven't considered at all.

One thing that can really help in this situation is understanding your expectations for a job/career. What is it that you want from your job? What is the minimum salary that you will accept for a position? How much flexibility do you need to care for your family? Are you more inclined to work by yourself or as part of a team?

In order to understand and appreciate what will make you happy, you need to spend some time analyzing your needs, desires and expectations. Unless you truly grasp what truly matters in your life, you will likely find yourself switching jobs somewhat frequently.

To read more about Careers and Jobs, go to: Career Planning

Using a Resume Outline

2007-04-19T18:08:00.000-07:00

The Resume Outline identifies the major headings of the resume and what information is contained within each one. Make sure you are comfortable with each of the following sections since you will be creating your own personal professional history with them in mind.

Heading/Contact Information
Objective
Education
Work Experience
Honors/Activities/Achievements/Publications
Other

Do you know what kind of information is contained in each section?

Click here for a description of each section: Resume Outline

This resume outline should provide you with a basic understanding of the sections of a resume. While different formats use these sections in a variety of ways, the information is used in each resume.

If you need more information than this resume outline offers, peruse the site listed above. The formats tab and the examples tab both provide a great deal of information.

Best of Luck

Professional-Resume-Example.com

What do You Want in a Job?

2007-04-18T14:41:00.000-07:00

What do You Want in a Job?

Your resume and cover letter can be very helpful in getting the right job, but how do you go about finding that perfect job in the first place?

There are many situations where people are headed down one career path and find themselves given another opportunity altogether that is even better than the one they initially chose. Other times, someone may interview for one position, but the hiring manager thinks your skills and accomplishments fit better with a different position.

Don't rule out a job or a career path just because it was not what you were initially considering. You never know what might just be your new favorite thing.

Many people start off in one career and decide later in life to pursue another career or even their hobby. The experience almost always is more enjoyable and more profitable. Whether you create the opportunity yourself, it falls into your lap or are given direction by someone else, you should always be open to the possibilities around you. Your dream career might not be what you anticipated when you start your job search. It might be something you haven't considered at all.

One thing that can really help in this situation is understanding your expectations for a job/career. What is it that you want from your job? What is the minimum salary that you will accept for a position? How much flexibility do you need to care for your family? Are you more inclined to work by yourself or as part of a team?

In order to understand and appreciate what will make you happy, you need to spend some time analyzing your needs, desires and expectations. Unless you truly grasp what truly matters in your life, you will likely find yourself switching jobs somewhat frequently.

To read more about Careers and Jobs, go to: Career Planning

What You Should NEVER Include in Your Professional Resume

2007-04-16T18:44:00.000-07:00

By Tracey Drake

There is one golden rule in resume writing- never include information such as hobbies, race, marital status and political information on a resume. In the 1960s it used to be very popular to include a lot of personal information on your resume. That was an era when the employer wanted to know a lot about your personal life because they would use that information in the decision making process. That was also an era when there were not as many discrimination laws and employers were able to hire and fire on a variety of different reasons. Times have definitely changed and most employers have decided that they don’t need to know that information. Choosing individuals to interview and hire has become a lot more objective and they would prefer that they only know your work history rather than you personal history. Despite all of this, there are still those individuals that decide to include that information either as filler to make their resume longer or because they simply don’t know any better.

You are only setting yourself up for disappointment by including personal information on your resume. The number one item that is included on resumes, that shouldn’t be, is marital status. Potential employees should never know whether or not you are married, single or have children. This suggests that you will be preoccupied with sick children, trips to the doctor, teacher conferences, school events, etc. These things will get your potential employer preoccupied with thoughts of you missing work. Employers should also not know if you are single. This may make them think thoughts like, “Great, we’ll get him or her to work long hours or weekends!” If you are married, they might think that your spouse won’t want you to work late.

Your height and weight should also not be included in your resume. This does not really matter to your position and it is definitely too personal, but people still include this on their resumes. Also, nobody cares whether or not you like to bowl, golf, surf the Internet, take long walks on the beach and play with your puppy. These are just not necessary for a resume and your hobbies are not selling you on the position.

Other aspects that should not be included on your resume include religious and political affiliations. These open you up to personal preferences and prejudices. Potential employers may be very tempted to use this type of information against you.

Another popular feature that was included on resumes “back in the days,” was personal photographs. This is not a portfolio or an actor’s promotion pack. You are not trying to land a part, but a career. Your picture shows people what you look like and this may make them disregard the important information on you resume. This also allows them to make assumptions about you and you shouldn’t give people that opportunity. A picture will also open you up to prejudices and may keep you from getting interviews.

If you have not been in the job market for quite some time, it is time to make your resume comply with today’s guidelines. Too many individuals fail to update their resumes on a regular basis when you should be doing this regardless of whether or not you plan on leaving your current job. It is better to be prepared and always have a resume ready than to have to update one that is twenty years old.

Many students are led astray by word processing programs that suggest you had areas such as hobbies and interests. These areas are not essential and they should not be used. These areas simply add filler and nonsense to a functional resume. You are also tempted to leave personal comments that you will not want included in your resume. If you are unsure about certain areas of your resume, have friends, family, colleagues and career-counselors examine your resume and give you suggestions. Many career-counseling offices at colleges offer free resume counseling services.

© Career-Launch – specializes in effective and focused resume packages, written by industry certified professional writers. Career-Launch has written thousands of successful resumes to date for clients across a diverse range of industries and career choices. Any reproduction or reprint of this article must include this information.

Article Source:

Tracey Drake

Article at EzineArticles.com

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Six Essential Elements of a Professional Resume

2007-04-14T20:35:00.000-07:00

Six Essential Elements of a Professional Resume

Writing a resume may not be the most exciting thing you have ever been challenged to do, but it may be one of the most important. Well, it is if you are interested in finding a great job.

There are six essential elements of a professional resume that you must be aware of when drafting your personal copy. While there are a lot of things to keep in mind, these six elements are extremely important to crafting a professional resume that gets read and establishes your credentials in the eyes of a prospective employer.

Take a look at these Six Elements and see how your resume stacks up.

One
The Contact Information section will always appear at the top of your page regardless of which format you choose. It contains your name, address, phone number and email address. Be sure this information is correct or the employer will have no means to contact you.

Two
The Objective Statement is a vital part of the professional resume. It lets the employer know how you will contribute to the organization as well as the specific type of work you are interested in doing. Don’t be vague or the employer may not be able to figure out what you are after.

Three
Accomplishments are the most important things you can list on a resume. This is true regardless of how old you are or how much experience you have. The reason is that accomplishments show that you worked hard, were involved and got things done.

Four
The Education section is presented in reverse chronological order, meaning the most recent school you attended is listed first. List your GPA if it is significant. If you haven’t completed your course of study yet, list your expected date of graduation and your intended degree.

Five
Proofread everything until you are certain that your resume contains no mistakes. Also, have someone else read your resume in an effort to ensure it is error-free. Typos and grammar errors are the first things an employer looks for when weeding out the good resumes from the bad ones.

Six
Target your resume to best garner the attention of the prospective employer. According to distinctiveweb.com, "A targeted resume is used to focus your resume toward a specific career objective, performed in a specific industry, and for a specific company. The content of a targeted resume is written to highlight the skills, qualifications, and experience that match the requirements of your job target."

If you are able to incorporate these six essential elements of a professional resume into your personal resume, you stand a much better chance of getting selected for an interview. Other job candidates are doing it, so to compete for those great jobs, you have to do it, too.

Take the time to do it right. You'll reap the rewards.

Self-Assessment Prior to Writing Your Resume

2007-04-12T20:35:00.000-07:00

When you begin the resume writing process, take some time to do some self-assessment first. Don't sit down at a computer and expect to type in a few choice words and a few dates with the hope that it will all come out beautifully. Reflect on your past accomplishments and achievements. What can you offer your next employer?

To create a professional resume, you need to sit down and think about your qualifications. What kind of job are you after and how can you write a resume that reflects your past experience in a way that employers will take seriously.

When you take the time in advance to consider your qualifications (work experience, education, accomplishments, etc) – then write your resume – you will be much more likely to win favor with a prospective employer.

If you are going to apply for a position, make it count. Self-assessment is vital in the resume-writing process. It will also benefit you during the interview.

Follow this link for more important resume tips:
Resume Tips

How Long Should Your Resume Be?

2007-04-11T20:13:00.000-07:00

The length of your resume is less important than its substance. Remember when you were told, especially as a child, that it wasn't what you wore on the outside, but what kind of person you were on the inside? Well, to some extent, that is exactly the same with your resume.

The length is not as important as the content.

How long should your resume be? The length of your resume should be in direct proportion to your success in reaching your career goals and in pursuing related educational objectives. What does that mean?

Write your resume in such a way that the reader knows exactly what you want and your credentials support that goal. Anything more becomes tedious and takes away from the impact of your true purpose. Anything less and your goal become unsubstantiated by your past experience and education.

Most experts suggest you keep your resume to two pages. If you can fit your skills and accomplishments on one page, that is even better. If you are a professional or executive, two pages should do nicely, but be sure you are using only what best supports your career goals.

The goal of the resume is to get the interest of the prospective employer to the extent that you are sought out for an interview. If your resume does that, then the length of your resume will not be an issue. Write what matters.

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What if Your Future Employer Did a Google Search on Your Name?

2007-04-10T19:02:00.000-07:00

Employers are using search engines to find out more about their potential employees.

Are you safe from the scrutiny? What if your future boss does a Google search on your name? What will he/she find?

Recruiters and hiring managers do not have an easy job. They are trying to find the best people to fill vacant positions at their corporations. While many resumes may be sent in to a company, employers have to sift through each of them to determine who the best candidates are to proceed through the hiring process. Once that initial scan is completed, it then becomes a matter of looking deeper to find out which candidates are worthy of an interview for the open position(s).

Why are some candidates eliminated after the initial screening and before the interviews take place? The resume in most instances is not the problem. A job candidate's qualifications may even be a perfect match for a job opening. What can curtail the whole process is a trend that many people, especially younger people, are using to make social contacts on the internet.

To find out if you are at risk, follow this link to:

Resumes and Personal Web Pages

Strange Jobs - Would you want to do this?

2007-04-09T13:38:00.000-07:00

Odd Jobs

Some of these are funny and some of them are very odd

All of them are REAL

No, this isn't referring to the "odd jobs around the house" that need to be done from time to time. This is about real jobs that individuals hold, but that most people don’t think about.

For instance:

1. If you work for the Research and Development department of a lawn care product manufacturer, you get to play with bugs. Actually, you get to research chemical products that kill bugs, but for grown-up boys, this is just an extra.

2. Wastewater Treatment Centers need workers, too. Reclaimed wastewater is used on a number of golf courses to keep those greens nice and, well, green. Perhaps you could claim the next 18 holes as a business expense.

3. Who feeds the baby mice to the snakes in the zoo? There's an odd one for you.

4. Someone created a web site called toilet.com. Of course, it just proves that you can find anything and everything on the Internet. They even market a potty that is painted in camouflage for hunters (doubles as a hunting blind). What will they think of next? Will you create the newest most amazing toilet ever? This could be the job for you.

5. At DominoArtwork.com, you can have your portrait re-created using sets of dominoes. Really. It’s actually amazing. Robert Bosch is the designer and uses a mathematical process called integer programming to achieve the results. Seems like a neat way to spend an afternoon. You could learn to do this… maybe.

6. As an Horticulture Agent for a local County Extension Office, one of your tasks would be to identify pest and disease problems for trees and other plants. It isn’t always a pretty sight, but such problems are vital to diagnose for orchards and many other growers. It's not especially "odd", but it's not especially exciting, either.

7. Perhaps you would like to be a Fish Culturist and be responsible for the care of salmon. The pay isn’t bad, but the smell might be. Of course, if you live in the Midwest, you will have to relocate. The last job posting for this was in Alaska.

8. Have you ever wanted to be a steeplejack? That's an odd job title, don't you agree? You can’t be afraid of heights as you would be working on towers, tall buildings, church spires, and such. Usually the position involves repair and/or maintenance, but mostly it involves being able to stay balanced.

As you can see, there are a variety of interesting jobs that people do – or even have created for themselves. Some are more intriguing than others, but all are of value in some way or another. Mostly, the value is in shaking your head back and forth while sipping your beverage of choice and thanking the Good Lord for giving you a sense of humor.

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Career Planning

2007-04-06T20:48:00.000-07:00

Career Planning for College Students and Recent Graduates

How would you like to achieve more success at work in a faster amount of time than anyone with whom you graduate?

It's really quite simple. Have a plan. Have a career plan.

So many people approach the job search as a "somebody take me please" endeavor as opposed to charting out the steps to take, focus on the employers where you want to work and setting goals and deadlines for career achievements.

Most people just happen along with no focus, goals or deadlines at all. Life just happens. Jobs just happen.

The reason for making decisions today about where you want to be tomorrow is so that you have the ability to actually get there.

If you don't know exactly where you want to be, you will be wandering aimlessly from position to position hoping that somehow it will all work out. Unfortunately, that isn’t how it works.

When you left for college, you probably spent a lot of time figuring out where you wanted to go, applied to the school(s), then when you were accepted, you formulated a plan to enroll in classes, find a place to live and budget your finances so that you could afford to eat and buy necessities.

If you applied that same amount of time and effort into setting out a career plan and the goals involved in achieving professional success, you would be much more successful and you’d blow past the competition easily. No one in your graduating class at college would even come close to achieving what you would achieve.

The great news is that Career Planning isn't some magical experience. It's not hard at all. Just give yourself a little time and ask yourself a few questions and you'll be on the right track. As you have more time in the months and years to come, revisit your Career Plan and determine if it still makes sense for you or if you need to tweak it.

You are the only one who can create your destiny. You choose.
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Take the time NOW to set the course for your future.

If you take the time to set your career goals, you will be ahead of 90% of the rest of the people out there who don’t bother to plan ahead. You will be more successful than your peers in the same field because you know where you are going and how you intend to get there. You will make more money and you will be much happier. Why? Because you didn't wait for destiny to step in. You took control of your life and made things happen.