The Secret to Success: Your Personality

by Shannon Dauphin, FindtheRightSchool.com

If you are looking for the perfect career, consider your personality type. What do you love to do? What are you good at doing? And, just as importantly, what bugs the heck out of you? Working eight hours a day at a job you're ill-suited for is draining. By taking the time to consider your personality and match it with your online studies, you could be one of those cheerful people at work.

Do You Love to Care for Others?

Do you get satisfaction from helping others? Are you great with kids? Are you one of those rare souls who has a knack for gently yet firmly getting your point across? Those strengths might make you an excellent elementary school teacher.

Teachers guide and nurture children through the learning process and often have a strong influence on a child's future goals, dreams, and self-esteem. Becoming an elementary teacher requires a bachelor's degree from a teaching program and a license to educate. Those who teach private school still need a degree, but may not be required to be licensed by their state.

In 2008, an elementary school teacher could expect to make a median salary of $49,330, according to the latest numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Are You a Math Whiz?

Do you have the uncanny ability to add numbers in your head? Do you calculate sales tax with a glance? Are you capable of balancing your checkbook in only a few easy minutes? A career as a bookkeeper could keep you properly challenged.

Bookkeepers are responsible for maintaining the financial records of a business. They prepare reports, keep track of deposits and financial statements, and sometimes handle payroll or make purchases for the company. A high school diploma may open the door, and career training continues on the job, but many businesses require their bookkeepers to hold at least an associate's degree in business or accounting.

As reported by the BLS, the median salary for bookkeepers in 2008 was $32,510.

Is Your Love for Video Games Beyond Compare?

Do you relish finding all the tricks and hidden codes in video games? Are you the go-to expert who can fix problems with video game systems? All that video-game savvy could pay off if you decide to become a computer software engineer.

Computer software engineers design, develop, and test software, including video games. They might work alone or as part of a team, depending upon the project requirements. Those with a bachelor's degree in computer science are more likely to get the job, and relevant experience opens the door to advancement. In 2008, the BLS reported the median salary for computer software engineers at $85,430.

Does a Unique Dining Experience Thrill You?

Do you have a taste for the finer things in life? Are you the first to test out a new restaurant? Do you have well-thumbed stacks of food and wine magazines throughout your house? It might be time to throw on the white coat and become a chef.

Executive chefs are responsible for running the kitchen, developing menus, and, of course, preparing delicious meals for patrons. The executive chef might supervise a small team of cooks or be the head of a major restaurant chain. Many chefs opt for career training programs at culinary institutes, and some pursue associate's or bachelor's degrees in culinary arts.

According to the latest BLS statistics, executive chefs made an average of $38,770 in 2008.

Do You Love to Talk?

Do you enjoy the media and love to follow the top stories? Do you like to talk to anyone and everyone? A job in public relations will get you up close and personal with the movers and shakers.

Publicists are responsible for crafting and maintaining the public image of a celebrity, organization, or business. They draft press releases, talk to the media, and organize both public and private events. The publicist uses every form of media to get their message across, and does so in a timely manner.

Many publicists begin their careers with a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, public relations, or a related field such as advertising. Excellent communication skills are a requirement, and further career training comes through on-the-job experience. The average salary for a publicist in 2008 was $51,280, according to the BLS.

Personality and Career -- a Winning Combination

By choosing a job that fits your personality, you've taken the first step toward career happiness. Your hard-earned degree can be your second step toward turning your strengths into a steady paycheck.

Shannon Dauphin is a freelance writer based near Nashville, Tennessee.

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Why Your Resume Gets Tossed

by Sara Goldsmith, WetFeet.com

The average recruiter sees 5,000 resumes a year. Any legitimate reason she finds to make one disappear makes her life that much easier -- and yours that much harder. Here, top-level recruiters reveal how candidates blow their chances to get a foot in the door.

Numbers Don't Add Up

If accomplishments can be quantified, do it -- but use discretion. Brandishing borderline performance numbers signals a lack of experience and bad judgment. "Phrases like 'managed a budget of $500,000' or 'led a team of two' might catch my eye in a bad way," warns Olaf Weckesser, a former recruiter for McKinsey & Co. Better to spin it as "managed company's largest budget."

Adds Alexandra DeMarino, a Citigroup recruiter: "If a small number is impressive, you absolutely have to put it in context." Because you can't provide context for academic numbers, don't include GMAT scores below 650 if you're targeting a top firm. DeMarino suggests bragging about nothing less than a 3.7 GPA.

Formality Takes a Vacation

Don't succumb to the informality of email. "If you send a cover letter by email that starts with 'Hi,' it and your resume will probably end up in the trash," says Cynthia Shore, an assistant dean at the University at Buffalo School of Management and former director of its career-resource center. Treat an email as you would a proper letter: Instead of "Hi," write "Dear Mr. Case." Instead of "Thanks," conclude with "Sincerely."

Keywords Are Overused

It's true that recruiters sometimes use scanners to sort through resumes looking for certain keywords. But resumes appear contrived when candidates consciously try to include them. Describing a business-development position using such terms as "needs assessment" and "contract analysis" in order to squeeze in more keywords is a misguided strategy. Assume that a human being -- not a computer -- will be reading the resume. After all, these days fewer than 25 percent of all recruiters even use scanners.

Things Get Too Personal

"If you mention your age, we have to trash your resume," says Jeremy Eskenazi, vice president of talent acquisition at Idealab!, the California incubator firm. Since it's illegal for a company to solicit a candidate's age, race, or marital status during the hiring process, firms have adopted a "don't tell" policy to avoid potential bias suits. Many won't risk even having it handed to them.

It Looks Too Fancy

"A recruiter who receives resumes in pretty plastic folders will likely toss them," says Dave Opton, CEO and founder of ExecuNet, an online executive recruiting service. "I don't have time to take the damn things apart." Another faux pas: Folding a resume so that it fits into a standard business envelope. Heavy-stock paper that retains its crease can be a nuisance. Says Opton: "They're easier to store and photocopy if they're flat."

Also, don't try to differentiate your resume with boxes or ornate lettering. When recruiters see a resume that's designed differently, they think the person's trying to hide something. Instead, focus on content. Your resume will rise to the top of the pile.

Want more? Visit CareerTV.com for this video on keeping your resume out of the trash. For more articles on resumes and cover letters, visit WetFeet.com.

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Theater auditions: tips for success

Auditions can be nerve-wracking for the beginner. Have you ever watched someone give a wonderful audition and wonder how they did it? Well, a successful audition is easier than you think. It's a combination of confidence, skill, and smarts. Use the following eight tips to move your auditions to the next level, and wow audiences and judges alike:

1. Dress Appropriately

No one is going to consider you for anything unless your appearance is exceptional. Men, always wear your best clothes, and something that shows off your character. Women, skirts or fitted pants are kosher, while tight and revealing outfits are generally looked down upon. While it's important to get a sense of "who you are" across to the judges, it's also important to look classy at all times. Underneath everything, judges are looking for your character as an actor/actress. Therefore, if the character you are auditioning for is a street bum, wear a neat, edgy outfit that gives a sense of danger. If you are auditioning to play a prostitute, wear a sexy, well-covered dress, and so on.

2. Make Eye Contact

Unless you are auditioning for the role of a blind person, it is good to make eye contact with everyone, even the person who escorts you into the room. A confident look is preferable to an uncomfortable stare. Try to tell judges in your glance alone that you are more than capable of playing the part you'd like.

3. Prime Your Handshake

A good strong handshake, in any field, is a plus. Firm grips show that you are not afraid of much. A weak grip indicates uncertainty and nerves.

4. Watch Your Posture

Many people slouch into an audition with the air of apologizing before they have even performed. This will take points from your performance immediately. There is nothing worse than you yourself telling the judges that your performance needs to be apologized for. Throw your shoulders back and speak in a loud, unwavering voice. Practice this repeatedly on your friends, until it comes naturally.

5. Be Organized

Although actors usually stick with urban, bohemian looks, a classy hint of the professional world will give you a wonderful edge. Consider carrying a black leather binder with your resume and photo inside. Type up your performance experience before reaching the audition, then attach it to your biographical sheet, if one is provided.

6. Choose Repertoire Carefully

It's not uncommon for people to choose audition materials or roles that are out of their reach. Don't let yourself fall into the trap of singing something other than what you are suited for. Remember that many people usually audition for one role, and chances are they are suited to the kind of part they want. This tips the odds away from you. A carefully planned audition will impress even the most seasoned judges.

7. Keep a Poker Face

Just like in a card game, the less expression you show, the more respect you will get. There's something about an impassive face that leads watchers to assume the best. If you've done badly, don't give a single hint. You can't have any idea what judges are thinking, and if you indicate that you are not happy they will assume that you've badly as well. If you've done well, control your elation. No expression will indicate that this is a common thing.

8. Don't Look Back

Even if your audition was the most amazing audition in the world, walk away like you are used to that sort of thing. Don't thank judges excessively. Once you are finished performing, judges will be itching to put down notes of your performance on paper. Don't hold them up.

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Tips for a successful life in a law enforcement job

Law enforcement can seem like the most glamorous job in the world, or the last job anyone would ever want to do. The truth actually lies somewhere between these two ideals.

The reality of law enforcement is that there is no glamour, but the job can be very rewarding. The best way to succeed at this, or at any job, is to go in with eyes wide open. Here are some factors to consider:

(1) Before you sign up, do some research, so that you will have a better idea of what you're getting yourself into. Join an Explorer's Club, or take part in a law enforcement agency's auxiliary officer training program. At the very least, visit a city police department or country sheriff's office. Make an appointment and talk to the Police Chief or County Sheriff, and try to talk with one of the detectives, as well. They can give you realistic firsthand information about the job.

(2) Get in the best possible shape. Your physical abilities will affect the way you do your job, not to mention giving you a much better chance of protecting yourself or someone else.

(3) Don't get cocky! Check your attitude at the door on your way to work. Even the best-intentioned officer can fall victim to a swelled head, if not careful. Remember the job isn't about glamour, it's just a job. Be yourself, but keep your personality on an even keel.

(4) Guard family with great care. A law enforcement officer can put his family at risk in two ways: reprisals from an angry convict, or losing a family by taking work home or by spending too much time working and not enough time at home with family. Revenge can be a threat, but that doesn't mean an officer must, nor should be, always looking for some possible threat from behind. But it would be advisable to think of the potential threats before getting in too deeply, especially when becoming a detective.

Otherwise, the more likely threat to family wellbeing would be how an officer's work might affect the family. Try to leave work at the office, and concentrate on family as much as possible when not working. This is a tough challenge, given the tremendous stress involved in law enforcement. But an officer's own mental and emotional well being can be greatly improved if the family is carefully nurtured. This provides a much-needed break from the stresses of everyday life as a law enforcement officer.

(5) Though most jobs have stress, law enforcement comes with its own box of goodies. And, no matter how solid a person may be in a personal life, the job stresses can and will wear away at even the hardiest soul. Any time you live your life on the edge, never knowing when circumstances may force you to come face to face with a gun, the adrenaline is going to pump the stress to its limits. Just be aware that the stresses will come, and that they may take their toll, if you're not prepared to deal with it.

(6) Don't take things personally. In a single day, an officer may encounter any number of people who will direct their own anger and stresses of life directly at whoever comes their way. And the distinctive uniform of a law officer seems to draw these people like a magnet, making an officer a target. Just remember that you're there doing your job, and it's not usually personal. This is easier said than done, when the code of law enforcement makes an attack against a law officer very personal. But, remember, the attacks are generally directed toward the badge, rather than the person behind it.

(7) Don't get too involved, personally, with the people in whose lives you may venture. It will be hard to walk into some family situations and see the depths to which some children are forced to live. But you can't take them all home and protect them. This, in and of itself, can be a difficult stress to live with. As a police officer, you will have access to resource information of use to families in crisis. But sometimes, that's all you can do. If you're going to survive a life in law enforcement, you'll have to learn to deal with it.

(8) Beware the temptations of the job. An officer will come into contact with money, drugs, alcohol, stolen property and other temptations. Now, if all of this appeals to you, and you can hardly wait to start, you might not be the right candidate for this job. But, even the stoutest of heart might have some difficulties, when faced with the temptation to just "take a little and no one will ever notice."

(9) Develop a life away from the office. As has already been mentioned, the stress can be quite a load to carry. Having interests away from the office and work can help an officer come to terms with the daily stresses, providing an outlet for emotions about to explode. Work out at the gym, play sports with friends, take up a vigorous or quiet hobby, depending on what your personal needs are. But find something to do that can help take your mind away from the harsher realities of life.

(10) Know when to ask for help. Don't feel like you have to go it alone. There are other officers to turn to, counselors specially trained to listen to law officers, and professional organizations that can help. It's not an indication of weakness to reach out for help.

Law enforcement is both a challenge and a rewarding experience. It can be both and yet more of one than the other. Just take each day as it comes, one day at a time, and check into the law enforcement life before you commit yourself for the long haul.

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Telecommuting tips for success

Home working can be liberating. Home working can be fun. It can be convenient, flexible and satisfying. But it can also be very very difficult - and, sometimes, just a little frustrating.

The reason is simple. For anyone used to the routines and regiments of office life, home working is inevitably going to throw up a number of challenges. There are two main ones which, more than anything else, are in danger of wrecking your chances of making money as a home worker.

The first is the sudden lack of structure your working life now has. For some this can be just too much to handle. All our working life we used to being told what to do and when to do it. When you make that decision to telecommute, freelance, work from home, suddenly there is no boss breathing down your neck. There's no one checking to see that you arrive at your desk on time.

So what's to stop you staying in bed another hour? Or watching just one more TV show before you get down to work?

The answer is no one - except you. Now as a home worker your motivation has to come from somewhere else. You cannot judge a day's work on whether you managed to fool the boss into thinking you've put in another industrious 10 hours while you actually read the paper and chatted to your co-workers.

So establish a motivation. For some this will be money. After all, that's why most of us work at the end of the day. Start thinking of time as money. Realise that that extra hour in bed is an hour you aren't earning a cent.

Or perhaps you are less materialistic. Perhaps your goal is to write a book simply for the satisfaction of it. Then realise that every day wasted is a day longer it will take to reach your goal.

Once you have your motivation firmly fixed in your mind, you need a structure. Plan your days in advance. Think ahead. Work out the essential steps required to achieve your goals and schedule them into the coming days and weeks.

Break it down even further into hours. For example, you might decide that the first hour of every day is dedicated to making new contacts. The second hour may be for chasing down unpaid bills. And so on. That way when you wake up in the morning you know exactly what you need to do that day. And when you reach your desk or home office or wherever you work, you will be ready to go.

Even better, at the end of the day when you have done what you promised yourself you would - you will have job satisfaction. You will know that you can rest easy and relax safe in the knowledge that you've done a proper day's work. But even if you have no motivational problems, even if your days are structured and planed down to the last second - that may not be enough.

This brings us to the second problem facing all telecommuters, freelancers and business people working from home: distractions. And I'm not talking about TV or magazines. I'm talking about family and friends. It sounds cruel to say so, but they can be a serious hindrance to making money for the home worker.

Friends who would never dream of phoning you at the office think nothing of popping round to your home for a chat. We don't want to be rude, even when we can see moneymaking minutes slip by as we sit down with them for a coffee.

Families are just as bad. When you are there - at home - it is just too easy for them to ask for a ride to the shops. Or may be you could go round and help unblock their sink? Things of course they would never dream of bothering you with if you worked away from home - in a proper job, in a real office.

It is up to you to make your friends and family understand that telecommuting, freelancing and working at home is real work. You are doing a proper job. That converted spare bedroom is a real office. Of course you will be tactful - but you must also be perfectly clear. Give them hours when you shouldn't be disturbed. Explain that there are assignments to be finished on time, deadlines to keep - or that you have important calls you must wait in for. Explain how hard you work. They probably hadn't realised.

Now you've got your motivation, you've got your structure and you are free from distractions. So earn some money. And remember - home working can be fun.

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Tips for substitute teachers

Substitute teaching can be an enjoyable career developing and profit making part time position. You need to be able to self-promote. You need to be able to maintain classroom discipline. You need to be ready to work at the brrring of a telephone!

If you have an Associate's Degree or better, chances are you are qualified to substitute teach. Most districts pay from forty to one hundred dollars a day. You should be willing and able to pass a background check. You should also be honest about your areas of expertise.

If you are an unemployed teacher, substitute teaching is a great way to get a foot in the door with local school districts. This is a great way to show other teachers and principals what you can do in a classroom. It’s a great way to build up your professional work references and work experience.

Here are some tips to get you started on your way to a great part-time career as a substitute teacher.

Contact your local school district and obtain a substitute teacher’s packet.

Fill out the packet neatly and professionally.

If you are not a teacher, list experiences such as management, physical fitness training expertise, art experience, musical ability, areas of content expertise, and any other assets that would qualify you to teach. Don’t overlook parenting and day care experience. Mention volunteer leadership positions, i.e. Boy or Girl Scout Leader.

Self promote. Print up flyers, posters, or business cards and distribute them to local area teachers, principals, and school secretaries. Meet with area teachers and principals to discuss their discipline programs.

When you begin your classroom day, begin by discussing classroom behavior expectations.

Ask students to help you by placing nametags on their desks or shirts, depending upon their ages. Older children do not like to wear nametags. Youngsters like to make, decorate, and wear their own special nametags.

Be willing to wear a nametag, too.

Always bring in some fun learning activities, in case the teacher’s lesson plans are incomplete, non-existent, or too short to fill your day. Nothing creates havoc better than a roomful of bored children.

Remember to be nice, but firm. Children don’t really like change in their routines. Make this a fun day of learning for everyone involved. Be authoritative, but don’t be a dictator. Enjoy yourself.

Show the students that you like and respect them.

Allow students to spend a few moments getting to know you.

Ask other teachers in the building for help, suggestions, and comments on how you are doing and what you could do better.

Make sure you bring your business cards, posters, or flyers with you. Pass them out on your lunch break. Leave a few in the teacher’s lounge.

Leave a note for the teacher that you filled in for that day. Thank him or her for using you as a substitute. Fill him/her in on how the day went and what the class accomplished. Ask that you be considered to substitute again. Ask that this teacher recommends you to others.

Start putting those paychecks in the bank!

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Tips for leaving a job: how to have a new career in 3 months

Working in a job in which you are unsatisfied can be tortuous. In worst-case situations the idea of having to go into work the next morning can be enough to make some people physically ill! Many times, however, an assessment of your skills and qualifications and little preliminary footwork can have you in a new career within three months!

For most, the possibility of leaving a particular job demands that you first find a new job. Leaving without securing a new job could be economically disastrous in fact! You could, of course, more than likely find a new job within the same career in which you are currently working. More than likely, however, while that job would result in a change of office and a change of the people with whom you are working, you would probably continue to do most of the same job duties in one form or another.

For some, simply changing jobs but remaining in the same occupational career wouldn’t be enough to translate into a satisfying work experience. In just a few months they would be back into the same unhappy situation that they were in before. Instead of jumping haphazardly from one job to the next just to get out of your existing situation, carefully calculate just what it is that you want from a new job. More than likely more money will be part of that answer but factors such as the amount of free time you will have, where a job might be located, and the overall purpose and ideology of the employer all enter into these answers as well.

Set a deadline for the amount of time that you will remain in your old job before making the change. Use this time to sum up your skills and qualifications. Fine-tune your resume and make a list of all your contacts. Start scanning job listings and talking to people in the field that you would like to enter. If you don’t know people in that field make it your job to meet them!

Join professional organizations and maybe even fitness spas and charitable organizations where the people that work in the field you are targeting spend their free time. Spend some time in online forums reading the posts to equate yourself with the current issues in this occupation. Join in on a few of the discussions. Make yourself known!

Socializing with people that work in your chosen occupational field will not only allow you to decide if this is indeed the field for you, it will allow you inside information on what jobs are available and the best way to go about securing one of those jobs. It might even allow you to decide that the best approach is to become self-employed in that particular field.

Tying up the loose ends at your existing job is just as important as feeling out your new job prospects. Get your office in order. Make sure that your files are organized and the status of each project clarified so that the next person that occupies your position can easily assume your job duties. Take care not to alienate your existing employers. There is no logic in burning bridges behind you! At some point in the future you may need to turn back to those bridges! Resolve disagreements with coworkers and take any other steps that are needed to have people in your old profession remember you in a positive light.

No one has to be stuck in a job in which they are unhappy. Just decide that you are going to make a change. Move slowly and purposefully, however. Assess your skills, qualifications, and expectations as well as the prospective occupation. Optimize your interactions with employers and coworkers at your existing job and hone new contacts that might be beneficial in allowing you to move into a new job. With a little foresight and planning practically anyone can have a new career within three months!

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'Accomplishments' to Leave off Your Resume

by Doug White, Robert Half International

In today's competitive job market, you need to show hiring managers that you can make an immediate contribution to a new employer. Including your biggest professional successes in the "Accomplishments" section of your resume is an effective way to do just that.

But keep in mind that any achievement you cite should be a) truly noteworthy, b) relevant to your current career goals and c) relatively recent. Far too often, job seekers miss the mark. For instance, you're unlikely to impress prospective employers by highlighting the fact that you were a finalist in a local pageant held in 1982 -- as one real-life job candidate did.

Following are more examples from resumes collected by Robert Half International that feature "accomplishments" that aren't worth mentioning in your resume, as well as advice for crafting statements that will catch a hiring manager's attention:

The Unquantifiable Accomplishment

• "I am the most talented employee my company has ever had."
• "I am the best and most awesome employee in New York City."
• "My last client called me a god."

Whenever possible, quantify your achievements by noting how you helped previous employers increase revenue, cut expenses, or improve productivity. (Example: "Increased territory sales by 150 percent within one year of being named district sales director.") Boldly heralding vague, unverifiable accomplishments is less compelling and often comes across as arrogant.

The Not-So-Notable Accomplishment

• "Maintained a 2.0 GPA."
• "I get along with coworkers."
• "Overcame procrastination."

Make sure any accomplishments you place on your resume will impress a potential employer. Your ability to do average work or fulfill the most basic requirements of a job does not warrant special mention.

The Offbeat Accomplishment

• "Set record for eating 45 eggs in two minutes."
• "Raised over $6,000 for an organization by sitting on a commode."
• "To be honest, the only thing I have ever won was a Cabbage Patch Kid. This doll was the result of a school raffle, and I was hated by many children for it."

Honors and awards received from professional associations, industry publications and educational institutions hold weight. But being overly playful and mentioning odd accolades as a vehicle to showcase your wacky sense of humor could cause employers to question your professionalism.

The Mistake-Ridden Accomplishment

• "I have successed in all my endeavors."
• "Dum major with my high school band."
• "I continually receive complaints on the high quality of work I perform."

Finally, as with every other section of your resume, remember to carefully proofread the descriptions of your accomplishments. Don't undermine your achievements by misspelling them. Hiring managers are looking for applicants who demonstrate attention to detail. Research by Robert Half International indicates that just one resume error can sink a job seeker's chances of landing a job interview.

Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 360 offices worldwide. For more information about our professional services, please visit rhi.com. For additional workplace articles and podcasts, visit workvine.com.

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Newest Professions, Growing Salaries

12 Jobs That Didn't Exist Until Recently

by Larry Buhl, for Yahoo! HotJobs

The latest directory of job titles from Occupational Information Network (O*Net) features a variety of new entries that many people have never heard before.

Some of these jobs -- at least the duties -- have been around in some form for a while. What's new is a "professional pathway" for these careers, according to employment expert and author Laurence Shatkin. "O*Net officially recognizes job titles once there is a critical mass of workers in those jobs and a clear road map for attaining the positions," he says.

Green Energy

There are many new green-collar job titles on O*Net, which is developed for the U.S. Department of Labor. The number of new green jobs is not surprising, given the federal government's active role in building a green economy.

Even before the federal stimulus dollars kicked in, wind energy was big and growing. The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) reports that the wind industry grew by 45 percent in 2007 alone. Civil engineers who work on various aspects of the wind farm now have their own job category: wind farm engineers. These engineers work on performance of turbines and the overall performance of the wind farm and also oversee aspects of construction and mechanical development. They usually have a B.S. in engineering with a focus in construction or civil or structural engineering. Some technical colleges now offer degrees in wind farm engineering. AWEA pegs the average salary at $80,000.

Solar thermal technicians design, develop, install, and maintain solar thermal systems used to heat water and produce energy. Renewable energy plants, companies that install solar panels for domestic use, construction companies, consulting firms, and hotel chains use these technicians. A degree (2- or 4-year) in mechanical engineering or electronics is helpful, but some apprenticeship programs exist as well.

Salaries vary widely and will increase if demand continues to outstrip supply. Solar thermal technicians can expect to start at around $40,000 a year or $20 an hour, according to Red Rocks Community College in Colorado. The upper salary limit is a moving target, as the job category is emerging so quickly.

Health Care

Nursing informatics is a nursing specialty that integrates nursing science, computer science, and information science to manage and communicate data, information, knowledge, and wisdom in nursing practice. Informatics nurse specialists are registered nurses trained in graduate level informatics. Salaries start at $60,000 but can more than double after a few years' experience.

"Most often they are liaisons between clinicians and information and computer science people. These jobs are growing because information technology is now becoming a major tool in health-care settings," says Stacey Prince of the American Nurses Association.

Anesthesiologist assistants work under the direction of a licensed and qualified anesthesiologist in hospitals. They perform preoperative tasks, support therapy, recovery room care, and intensive care support. They do well money-wise: around $90,000 to start and more than double that with 10 years of experience, according to the American Medical Association. A master's degree in nursing and certification by the National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants are required.

Business and Management

The roles of IT professionals continue to splinter and become more specialized as new technologies dominate businesses. Business continuity planners are responsible for developing plans to recover from cyber attacks, terrorism, or natural disasters. They also may be responsible for scaling IT as a company grows (from regional to national, for example), duties that used to be handled by information systems managers. A bachelor's degree in business, management, or disaster management is the minimum requirement. The median salary for disaster recovery managers, who have a similar job description, is $100,000, according to salary.com.

America's interest in getting healthy has led to a growing business specialization of spa managers, who are employed by resorts, health clubs, and other facilities offering sports and wellness activities. The median income for spa managers in the U.S. is $56,000. A college degree is not mandatory, but a high school diploma or GED and at least five years experience in the managing a related area are usually required.

Education

Distance learning, which provides instruction to students who are not on-site, is booming. O*Net now recognizes distance learning coordinators, who prepare and run online courses at colleges, trade schools and secondary schools. A master's degree instructional design, curriculum design, curriculum development is usually required, as is a strong understanding of Web-based technologies.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn't yet recognize distance learning coordinators as a job category, but an analysis of job openings shows a range from the upper $30s to the low $60s for a coordinator with at least two years' experience.

Entertainment and Media

Video game designers have been around for a while, but as the $9 billion interactive entertainment industry matures, new specialties are emerging, such as user experience designer, which focuses solely on improving the user interaction. Designers can also move up to be creative directors as well. A college degree is still not mandatory everywhere, however, strong skills in computer programming, computer engineering, software development, computer animation, graphic design, and computer graphics -- or all of them -- are helpful.

Big employers like Microsoft and Electronic Arts snag a large chunk of new designers, but smaller companies are starting to offer competitive wages and career tracks as well. Designers earn $50,000 and $80,000 annually, and the highest reported salary was $200,000, according to the International Game Developers Association.

Social media is a specialty field of public relations that uses the growing social networking technologies, including RSS, Twitter, Facebook, and blogs. A few years ago, social media duties were performed by marketing managers or communications directors. Now there is a social media career track.

An entry-level company blogger can earn less than $20 per hour (and many blogging jobs are part-time). A director of social media, the top of the social media chain, can pull in $70,000 or more. In the middle, a social media manager, can expect to earn around $50,000. A bachelor's degree is usually required, and job seekers should possess strong writing abilities and a keen understanding of online marketing, public relations, and new media.

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Holiday Hiring Forecast: Slightly Better Than Last Year

5 Tips for Landing a Seasonal Job This Year

by Margaret Steen, for Yahoo! HotJobs

There may be a few more holiday season jobs available this year than last year, but applicants will face stiff competition.

Retailers added the fewest jobs in nearly 20 years for last year's holiday season, said John A. Challenger, chief executive officer of global outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas. This year may be somewhat better, but a combination of cautious employers and millions of unemployed workers will still make it challenging to land a job.

"Last year ranked as one of the lower seasons with regard to holiday hiring," said Kerry Kiley, regional operations manager for staffing firm Adecco. "Luckily this year we are expecting to have a slight uptick."

Hiring Season Has Begun

Many employers have already begun their holiday hiring process. Toys R Us, for example, has started interviewing candidates and will continue to hire right up until Christmas, a spokesperson said. The company expects to hire about 35,000 seasonal workers this year, about the same as the past two years.

Not all employers start hiring early, though. UPS, for example, generally begins its hiring in November, a spokesman said.

And this year, experts predict that some employers that have in the past hired early may wait.

"Retailers are very reluctant to do much hiring in the face of this recession, even if we've now come out of it," Challenger said. "They're really going to wait until the last minute. They're waiting to see how many people are really coming to the stores."

Employers also know that, with millions of unemployed workers eager for any job, there's little risk that they won't be able to fill the jobs. These unemployed workers will face competition from college students, as well as workers with part-time jobs who are looking to supplement their incomes.

How to Get a Seasonal Job

Experts offer these tips for workers who want to land a seasonal job in this competitive market:

* Start looking now. Even though some employers may be holding off on hiring, they may be already compiling lists of people to hire.

"They may start hiring a little later, but in doing that they will hire quickly," Kiley said.

* Offer what employers need. Employers are looking for reliable workers with flexible schedules. Other qualifications depend on the position.

For example, Toys R Us looks for sales people with good customer-service skills who can work in a fast-paced environment. Other jobs require organizational skills and attention to detail.

* Make a personal connection. If you're looking for a retail job, focus first on stores where you shop. Go to see store managers in person and show that you know the merchandise. "Introduce yourself and make sure he or she knows you like the store," Challenger said.

* Focus on transferrable skills. What if you're looking for a retail job but have never worked in a store before? "Look at skills in your previous positions that might be applicable to retail," Kiley said. These could include communication skills, problem-solving, and working with people.

* Look beyond retail. Retailers do a lot of holiday hiring, but they're not the only ones. "Consider all the gifts that will be shipped from warehouses," Kiley said. Online ordering means jobs for people to help process those orders. Transportation and delivery companies also staff up during the holiday season.

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6 Thriving Jobs That Are Here to Stay

by Woodrow Aames, FindtheRightSchool.com

Even in a turbulent economy there's hope for sustained employment in careers that stand the test of time. The downturn means an opportunity for those who want to return to school to increase their skills and earning power -- or for those who are training for their first job.

In any recession, the outcome often means the job market reshapes itself, with in-demand careers rising to the top. Job titles may change, but professionals with key skill sets will continue to thrive in careers with staying power.

If you're looking for career training, a college degree, or certification courses to qualify for a profession with legs, here are six careers to consider:

Alternative Energy Engineers

Green is good. And engineers with specializations in environmental sciences will find themselves valued in today's and tomorrow's economy. You'll be designing solutions for issues of global warming, waste water and air pollution, outdated fossil fuel energy systems, and excessive carbon footprints.

Join the ranks of environmental engineers with a bachelor's degree in engineering. Or, if you're an engineer, take a master's degree in environmental studies or advanced engineering. Job growth is predicted at 25 percent between 2006 and 2016, and the 2008 median annual wage was $74,020.

Registered Nurses

Registered nursing tops the health-care occupations with the greatest number of total jobs (2.5 million). Openings are expected to rise 23 percent from 2006 to 2016. Recent news reports say that 116,000 jobs for registered nurses are currently open in hospitals, with another 100,000 unfilled positions at nursing homes. An additional 587,000 new jobs are predicted to open, which makes nursing the single-largest occupation in terms of career growth.

Prepare to land an opening by completing an online associate or bachelor's degree program in nursing. The median 2008 annual wage for registered nurses was $62,450, with top earnings at $92,240.

Accountants

People who count money and help others prepare for taxation have been around forever. Job growth is projected at 18 percent between 2006 and 2016.

To join this nearly-bulletproof profession, complete an online bachelor's degree in accounting. To increase your earning potential, take national exams to qualify as a certified public accountant. In 2008, the median annual wage was $59,430, with accountants in the top-earning bracket drawing $102,380.

Paralegals

Lawyers are bound to last the economic shakedown, but they're having trouble handling the workload. That's why paralegals are increasingly brought into private practice, government organizations, and corporate legal departments to shoulder the research and paperwork duties. Projections show a 22 percent increase in paralegals during the 2006-2016 decade.

There are online associate's and bachelor's degree programs that qualify paralegals to enter the law office and courthouse. Earnings are rising, too. The median 2008 annual wage for paralegals was $46,120, with the top 10 percent taking home $73,450.

Physician Assistants

Health-care professions are on the rise. The employment of physician assistants is projected to grow by 27 percent from 2006 to 2016. Physician assistants handle a great many medical procedures under the direct supervision of a doctor, including making diagnoses, conducting examinations, and taking medical histories.

The states and the District of Columbia require physician assistants to pass a physician assistant national certifying examination in addition to completing a two-year degree program. Employers are looking for candidates with bachelor's degrees and health-care experience. The median annual wage for physician assistants in 2008 was $81,230.

College Professors and Post-Secondary Teachers

The current generation of qualified educators is facing retirement. The U.S. Labor Department predicts a 23 percent increase in jobs for postsecondary teachers between 2006 and 2016. That means ample openings at trade schools, vocational schools, community colleges, and universities. Requirements vary by institution and subject matter.

At the university level, you'll often need to complete a Ph.D. in your field. At community colleges, professors and instructors may only need a master's degree to land a faculty position. In technical institutes, an undergraduate degree and on-the-job experience in your subject matter may suffice. Wages vary greatly, between $58,662 and $98,974.

Even in today's uncertain economic climate, there are careers with resilience and a promising upside. While others may emerge out of the tumult, these six professions deserve consideration.

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Money Topics: Financial Tips for Women

Women remain stuck behind economic barriers that put them in economic jeopardy—barriers that have been built from cultural messages that have created a psychological mindset in women, preventing them from getting and using money to their best advantage.

According to the Women's Institute for a Secure Retirement (WISER):

* Three out of four working women earn less than $25,000 year.

* Nine out of ten working women earn less than $40,000.

* Half of all women work in traditionally female, relatively low paid jobs without pensions.

* Women's earnings average 74 cents for every dollar earned by a man—a lifetime loss of over $250,000.

Women also change jobs more often, are more likely to leave the workforce to care for children or parents, are more conservative with their money, and save less.

Ruth Hayden, a nationally-known financial expert, contends a woman's money belief system directly affects her behavior with money. As president and CEO of Ruth L. Hayden and Associates, Inc., a financial planning firm, Hayden says cultural messages have created a money belief system for women that she identified in her book How to Turn Your Money Life Around: The Money Book for Women.

Hayden defines money beliefs as emotional responses to childhood money training that often keep women from adopting positive money management skills. The cultural message women receive as girls is: "You don't have to take care of yourself financially." And many women don't.

In 1995 the National Center for Women and Retirement Research (NCWRR) conducted the Women Cents Study, sampling 1,100 women between the ages of 21 and 75 from across the country to explore their financial decision-making process from a psychological vantage point. It found that while women are increasingly adopting healthy attitudes about money, psychological traits prevent them from acting on those beliefs.

The study reported that fear of failure and fear of the unknown are the biggest obstacles to a woman's financial success. More than half—54 percent—of the woman surveyed said they postponed financial decisions for fear of making a mistake and 58 percent worry after making a big money decision. Seventy-four percent said lack of knowledge about how to select financial instruments is the biggest stumbling block to becoming more active investors.

The Women Cents study also showed a direct correlation between a woman's personality characteristics and her financial habits. It reported that assertiveness, openness to change and an optimistic outlook are the qualities that tend to lead to smart money choices.

For instance, out of the 58 percent of women who said they feel in control of the direction their life is taking, 56 percent save and invest on a monthly basis and 33 percent make saving and investing for retirement a top priority. In contrast, of the 42 percent who don't feel in control of the direction their life is taking, only 39 percent save and invest regularly and only 17 percent make saving and investing for retirement a priority.

The study illustrates that women's economic future is held captive by their attitudes and beliefs about money and the results are daunting. Statistics from the Women Cents Study show why it's vital for women to pay attention to pension issues:

* Women are less likely to receive a pension and those who do receive a pension get half as much as men.

* In 1995, Social Security was the sole source of income for 18 percent of unmarried women 65 and older; 33 percent depended on it for at least 90 percent of their income.

* Over 58 percent of female baby boomers have less than $10,000 saved in a pension plan or 401(k) plan. In comparison, male boomers have saved three times more in pension programs.

* Among women 35 to 55 years old, between one-third and two-thirds will be impoverished by age 70.

* The average female born between 1946 and 1964 will likely be in the work force until she is 74 years old due to inadequate financial savings and pension coverage and will not have adequate resources to maintain the same standard of living prior to age 65

Hayden thinks paying attention and financial planning are the most important things women can do to break down the money barriers in their lives. "By paying attention," said Hayden, "we bring to money the same sense of clarity, the same sense of intelligence, the same sense of intuitiveness that we bring to other parts of life." It is that kind of attention backed by a good financial plan that will help women rebuild their financial future and put them on the road to greater economic security.

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7 Unusual Work-From-Home Jobs

by Carol Tice, PayScale.com

Once you had to be a graphic designer, a consultant, or a freelance copywriter if you wanted to ditch your cubicle and make money in your pajamas. But advances in technology have brought work-from-home jobs to nearly every business sector.

If you're ready to trade your morning car-commute for a quick stroll over to your home computer, consider these unusual work-from-home possibilities:

* Concierge -- Ask for restaurant recommendations or directions at the Santa Clara Hyatt in California (or a growing number of other fine hotels), and you'll be directed to a flat screen mounted on the wall. Virtual concierges use videoconferencing technology to ask hotel guests about their interests and provide them with sightseeing tips, says Kate Lister, co-author of "Undress For Success: The Naked Truth About Making Money At Home."

* Catering manager -- You might think it would be impossible to work in food service remotely, but FlexJobs recently had a job listing from a national bagel chain for a telecommuting junior catering manager, reports FlexJobs CEO Sara Sutton Fell. The work involves coordinating banquet orders via phone and computer software, then traveling to job sites to oversee the actual events, with no office or commercial-kitchen time needed.

* Online instructor -- The rise of online classes and universities has meant a boom in teaching jobs you can do from home, says Fell. Recent FlexJobs listings have included an adjunct professor of opticianry and an instructor for a world religions course. If you've been teaching but want to skip the classroom-management problems and faculty-lunchroom drama, stay home and email your students about their online lessons.

* Nonprofit executive director -- To attract the best talent, a growing number of nonprofits are hiring executive directors and letting them work wherever they are, says Fell. If you have a management background and a passion for a cause, you may be able to combine them into a job that lets you do good -- while also doing the laundry.

"Some are virtual organizations anyway," she says. "Nonprofits like the lower overhead costs."

* Patient champion/patient advocate -- "Home-Based Business For Dummies" authors Paul and Sarah Edwards noticed the emergence of this home-based job. Patient champions help ill people navigate the complexities of the healthcare system -- calling doctors, obtaining copies of medical records, and accompanying patients on doctor visits. Often relatives don't live close, Paul Edwards notes, so they'll pay someone to make sure grandma is receiving appropriate care and understanding doctors' instructions.

"It's a great service," he says, "and there's a great need."

* Virtual juror -- If you're a person with strong opinions, you might make some quick cash serving as an independent juror. Virtual jurors help lawyers evaluate the strengths of their case before they take it to court. Some companies promise up to $60 a case -- not bad for an hour's work at your computer. Major players in this space include Virtual Juror and Online Verdict.

* Virtual nurse -- Registered nurses tired of working 12-hour shifts standing on their feet are taking advantage of booming opportunities in virtual nursing, says Lister. In teletriage, nurses staff phone lines and take calls from people with health emergencies, helping them evaluate whether they need an immediate trip to the ER. Lister knows one insurer that offered a nurse-staffed chat line for pregnant mothers, helping them resolve minor issues without resorting to more costly doctor visits.

"It saves the medical system a lot of money," she notes, "to contract with organizations that offer nursing support by phone."

Business reporter Carol Tice contributes to several national and regional business publications.

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How Reading Trade Publications Gives You a Competitive Edge

by Beth Brindle & Karen Noonan, TradePub.com

Believe it or not, your grade school teachers knew what they were talking about when they told you that reading is the roadmap to success; and, what you read can help you find a shortcut to your career destination.

How can something as simple as a little extra reading benefit you? Here are a few ways that reading trade publications can help you land the perfect job or acquire the knowledge and skill sets you need to succeed in your current line of work:

1. Improve your interview performance.

The ability to hold your own in a conversation about industry developments signals to an employer that you are well read, well informed, and -- perhaps most importantly -- serious about your career path in your chosen industry. By subscribing to complimentary magazines in your industry, you have information at your fingertips covering a range of topics that might come up in your next interview, including new products and technologies, important mergers and business transactions, upcoming conventions and trade shows -- even hirings and firings.

2. Learn the ins and outs of a new industry.

Tom (last name withheld due to employer related privacy concerns), a senior executive in the hotel industry, recently decided to pursue a career change after more than 20 years in hotel management roles. He spoke to several recruiters about breaking into his chosen field, healthcare facilities management.

"Some of the best advice I received was to subscribe to industry publications," Tom said. "The information I found in trade magazines not only helped me see the big picture and speak intelligently about the industry in job interviews, but also kept me up to speed about what companies might be hiring, what additional training I might need, and what trade shows and conferences would be the best for networking."

3. Become a commodity in a tough economy.

Whether you are a jobseeker, a small business owner, or an employee in an organization of thousands, understanding your company's role (or your prospective employer's role) in the competitive landscape will allow you be a voice of influence to determine the best way to position the company's products and services.

Joe Anthony, a senior executive at a national public relations agency, says that he reads trade publications to stay up to date on what tools, techniques and trends are making an impact in his industry. By reading various viewpoints of peers and competitors Anthony says he gains a wider perspective on what is happening in the world of PR.

"Reading the trades helps me stay on top of what companies and agencies are doing to advance their public relations initiatives," Anthony said. "The information I find in trade magazines not only helps me see the big picture but it helps me remain valuable to my agency and my clients as an information source. Reading the trade magazines also allows me to keep up to speed on what agencies are making moves with new initiatives and new hires."

4. Find out what skills you need to survive ... and then acquire them!

While reading your new trade magazines you will discover that there are areas in which you may need to improve your skill set. The good news is, in addition to the free subscriptions you've acquired you can also easily find additional resources to help you build your background. Jobseekers and professionals can find a wide range of free white papers, webinars, podcasts, and software downloads that focus specifically a new concepts or technologies, offering an overview of, or even a detailed lesson in, an important new skill.

There are so many benefits related to educating yourself with these free industry resources. But, how can something so beneficial and simple also be available at no charge?

The short explanation is that your subscription is paid for by advertisers. More specifically, these magazine publishers offer subscriptions at no cost because they need a qualified reader base in order to sell advertising. To get your free subscription, you typically have to fill out a short online application to verify that you are (or have been, or shortly will be) professionally involved in some aspect of the industry the magazine covers.

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Tips for interviewing

Many people fail to get the most from an interview because they don’t know what’s expected. From job searches to journalism, the following do’s and don’ts will help you in your next interview.

DO your homework – not just for the Who and What, but also the Why.

Coming into an interview without knowing the background of your subject is rude and irresponsible. Basic preparation includes knowing the proper pronunciation of names, functions within the organization, and if possible, a more complete background of the individual. Stronger still would be to determine what this person is hoping to hear from your conversation. If you can adequately predict what’s going to happen, you have the best chance of not being caught off-guard.

DON’T pretend that you know much more than you do.

The point of an interview is for the listener to understand the speaker’s area of expertise. At the end of the interview, your subject should be able to give an accurate portrayal of this to a third party. If you try to mislead the subject, you will wind up with a weak interview – either from a lack of your understanding for the subject, or from the subject’s lack of trust in you. Admitting your ignorance isn’t just honest, it’s also the best way to get to a point where true learning can occur.

DO repeat answers to your subject.

It’s a simple phrase, but one that will save you from dangerous misunderstandings later: “So what you are saying is...” Interviewers inevitably put things in their own words. After all, you are far more likely to remember and understand it that way. But that doesn’t mean that you’ll always get them right. Repeating answers, when done in moderation, confirms that you are on the same wavelength as your subject. More importantly, it confirms that you are listening intently.

DON’T look at the clock.

An interview is an intimate and personal experience. After all, where else do you get complete and undivided attention paid to you? When you let your subject know that they are working under a time limit, you undermine the trust and depth of the experience. This prevents the sharing of greater insights.

If your schedule is truly tight, let the subject know at the start of the conversation. That way, they won’t be taken by surprise or think that you are blowing them off... and they are much more likely to work with you to give you what you need, during the time constraints.

DO make eye contact. DON’T be a slave to your notes.

Many interviewers avoid eye contact and focus on reading and writing notes during an interview. Neither tactic helps you achieve a rapport. You don’t have to make a lifelong friend, but the simple act of making frequent eye contact shows respect for the individual as a thinking person, rather than an aid to the notes you are filling out. Without that rapport, your chance for a truly great interview is minimal.

DON’T end the interview without covering the bases.

No interview is complete without checking to see that all of the bases are covered. Even if everything seems to have been said, a simple “Is there anything we missed?” can save you from a big miscue.

DO follow up with the subject.

When you complete a good interview, you have also created an opportunity for future dialogue. Following up with your subject with the results of the interview adds to your roster of contacts. After all, you never know when you might need to speak to the subject again.

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Resolutions for Getting a Job in 2010

Hiring Pros on What Job Seekers Must Do in This Tough Market

by Yahoo! HotJobs


The Recruiter Roundtable is a monthly feature that collects career and job-seeking advice from a group of recruiting experts throughout the United States. The question we put before our panel this month is:

With unemployment rates at record levels in many parts of the country, what would you say are the one or two things job seekers MUST do in order to succeed in landing a job in 2010?


Exhaust All Options

Exhaust every resource at your disposal. Let members of your network know the type of job you seek and work with a recruiter that specializes in your field. Refine your resume and look for opportunities, such as courses or seminars, to enhance your skills and industry expertise.

Also, in your resume and interviews with hiring managers, stay focused on how you can help the prospective employer. The onus is on you to show why you are the right person for the job and will be a valuable contributor to the success of the organization, making it imperative to customize your resume for each position and research companies thoroughly before submitting your application materials and meeting with them.
-- DeLynn Senna, executive director of North American permanent placement services, Robert Half International


Do Thorough Research

If you're interviewing with a company, diligently research all aspects of their products, company strategy, executive team, and latest organizational changes. When you are in a situation with a recruiter or company representative, be yourself and don't be nervous. But be able to talk about the topics that interest you with passion.
-- Ross Pasquale, recruiting/sourcing consultant, Monday Ventures


Tailor the Resume and Network

In order to land a job in 2010, you will need to network and tailor your resume specifically for each position.

Think of everyone who might be able to help you -- family, friends, social acquaintances, former business associates, leave no stone unturned. Don't be shy! You can get the word out without being obnoxious or sounding desperate. Join a professional organization and attend the meetings. You'll get useful information and leads by networking with those who are active in your field of expertise.

Create a general resume that can be customized. Be aware of keywords. Use bullet points for a cleaner look and just state the facts. Recruiters will not spend time on a resume that contains errors and doesn't have a professional appearance.
-- Debbie Dean, recruiter, Wells Fargo


Go for a Realistic Match

Job seekers must remain focused on opportunities that are a solid match to their background, skills, and abilities. While it might be tempting to apply for every open position out there, a targeted search will be a much more efficient use of job-search resources and will give the best chance of success. A hiring manager's number one question is, "Why did this person apply to my job posting?" To be a successful finalist, you need to have a better response than, "It was open."
-- Noah Apodaca, lead recruiter for staff at the University of California, Irvine

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Tips on persuasive career change cover letter

So you want to change careers? It is tougher to find a job in a career you have no experience in than to find a job that you are experienced at. Those of us who have a “been there done that” mentality and are always eager to expand our horizons are not content with another of the same type of career, however. Unfortunately, those sitting on the other side of the interview desk screening resumes often do not understand this. This is when a persuasive cover letter comes into play.

In your career change cover letter, you want to focus on your SKILLS rather than your EXPERIENCE. The employer will want to focus on experience. It is your job, then, to effectively and concisely get across your relevant skills and why they are a match for this particular job. When crafting your cover letter, keep these points in mind:

· Hammer home what you can bring to the company. Employers are not interested, at this point, in what they can do for you. Perhaps you can bring a fresh perspective. Of course you have developed skills that fit perfectly with this career.

· Explicitly match your skills and experiences to the skills required for this position. Think and write in terms of “I can perform Task A because if requires Skill A, which I acquired while doing Career B.”

· Lay out a table. Often, a two-column table will help get your competencies across. Head the first column “Skill/Job Requirement” and the second “experience”. Then proceed to fill in the table, matching your experiences with the employer’s requirements.

After you send the letter, be sure to follow up with a polite telephone call. Many times, this will prompt the employer to pull your letter from the stack and scrutinize it more carefully.

Changing careers can be challenging, but the correct approach can make your job search more fruitful.

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Resume writing tips

Having an attractive and informative resume can be the key to getting your dream job. While it is true that your qualifications should speak for themselves, often a resume that is eye catching can make the difference in getting your foot in the door. Here are some suggestions for better resume writing:

· The Header

Begin by writing the word "Resume" at the top of the page. Just below that, supply your name, home address, and phone contacts. If you have an e-mail address, include it in the header information.

Do not include your date of birth, place of birth or marital status. Employers are prohibited from asking for this information in an interview under U.S. Equal Opportunity laws. Eventually you may have to give this data on a job application but until then, keep it to yourself. If you voluntarily give out this information, your prospective employer can use it either for, or more importantly, against you.

· Objective

Include an objective after the header section. In your objective, explain what you are looking for in your next job. Keep it short but thorough. Use active verbs. For example: "To secure a position with a cutting edge firm that will utilize my extensive Internet skills". Be specific. Tailor your objective to fit the position you are applying for. You will probably want to have several different versions of your resume on file, depending on what job you are applying for.

· Experience

When listing experience, start with your present or most recent job. List the year pr range of years, your title, the company and the location in bold, underlining your title. Using active verbs, describe your duties. Avoid the phrase "responsible for". Simply tell what you do. For example: "Management of multiple high profile projects." Use past tense verbiage for past experience. If you worked in several different fields during your career, emphasize those duties, which pertain to the position you are applying for by listing them first.

Some firms prefer that you limit your resume to one page only. For many people that is virtually impossible. Therefore, your experience should only cover the past ten years.

Avoid "holes" in your experience. If a gap in your career is obvious it can be addressed in the interview. It is better to be honest than to "fudge" on experience.

· Education

List any degrees you have earned, beginning with the most recent. Include the type of degree earned, the institution it came from and the year it was attained, in bold face, with the degree type underlined. Don't clutter your resume with lists of courses unless those courses pertain to the job being applied for. Even then, show only the most important classes or certifications.

· Professional Accomplishments

Use this section for any professional organization you belong to which pertain to the prospective job. Also list here any significant awards you received, such as being named Employee of the Year. Just as in the Experience section start with the most recent award, give the year, the name of the award, the company that gave it, and why it was given. Use bold face for the year, the name and the company, and underline the award name.

· Special Skills

In some instances you may want to highlight any special skills that were not specifically covered in other sections of the resume.

· Appearance

As to the overall appearance of the resume, make sure you use plenty of white space on your page. Keep it clean and uncluttered. It is a good idea to use bold horizontal lines to separate the sections from each other. Be sure to "print preview" your resume if composing it with a word processing program so that you know exactly how it will appear on the page when printed. Always use the spell check program built into the word processor, but don't entirely depend on it to find all of the mistakes. Thoroughly proofread your finished resume and then have someone else look at is as well. Spell checking programs will not correct language usage problems. When printing your resume, consider the color and weight of the paper to be used. If you are applying for a job in an artistic field, brightly colored paper and/or eye catching type fonts may be appropriate and will serve to set your resume apart from others.

After your resume is completed to your satisfaction, turn your attention to writing the cover letter. This is by far the best device for getting your resume noticed. Write in the style of a formal business letter, addressing it to the hiring manager if possible. State what position you are applying for and give examples of how your experience makes you the best candidate for that position. Close by expressing an interest in arranging a meeting with the hiring manager at the earliest possible convenience.

Using these simple tips is sure to make your resume stand out from the crowd and position you as the best person for your dream job. Good luck!

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