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7 Ways To Become Your Own Boss -- Profitably

Career coach and blogger Marty Nemko has been writing about the biggest career myths, from "Do what you love," and "Networking is the only way to get a job" to "Job seekers must sell themselves. This post is the fourth in the series and takes aim at the rosy assessments of entrepreneurship and self-employment.

You've probably heard that self-employment is the best path to financial freedom. I started out believing that too. That was how my father made enough money to move my mom, sister and me out of a Bronx tenement and into a middle-class neighborhood. In addition, I've seen that most employers pay employees as little as they can get away with; some even replacing workers with interns and volunteers so that they can avoid the minimum-wage law. But having been a self-employed career coach for a long time and having tried to help many clients become successfully self-employed, I've become less sanguine. Being self-employed is more difficult than many people imagine. It requires not only that you be good at what you do but that you be willing and able to market and sell.

Also, it helps to have the knack of acquiring things at very low cost, for example, convincing someone to let you share space for free. In addition, in a tiny business, there's no support structure: no IT department, no accounting dept. It's all on you, and if you hire people to do all that, it's difficult to net a decent income. That's especially so if you have to pay an individual not group rate for health insurance.

So which start-ups make sense? You've heard, "It takes money to make money." That may not be true, though. For people cut out for self-employment, I am bullish on businesses that provide a service and require little money to start and run.

Examples:
  • Spacemaker: Clean out basements, garages, and attics and then install shelves and cabinets. Many people will pay serious money to convert a space from unusable to valuable.
  • Run people's garage, yard, or estate sales for a percentage of the take.
  • Tutor: Some make over $100 an hour, especially working with learning disabled or autism-spectrum students.
  • Relationship ad coach: You help people create their dating website profile. That work is well-suited to counselor types who also could develop the ability to take photos that capture the person's essence.
  • Fundraising auction planner: An auction can raise big bucks for a nonprofit but that's a complicated project, so nonprofits might gladly outsource it to you. Event-planner types could do well at it.
  • Job agent: You help people land a job by making those initial inquiries that many job hunters hate. You're like the agents that represent performers and authors. Job requirement: You're good at cold-contacting.
  • ·Class-project broker: Ask corporate and nonprofit managers if they have a project they'd like a classful of top MBA students to tackle. For example, if a company is planning to introduce a new product, each student in a marketing class could, instead of a term paper, develop a marketing plan for that product. To buy that much expertise would otherwise cost the company a fortune but you offer to have it done for, say, $10,000...all of which you get to keep. Then pitch instructors of a marketing course at prestigious universities: "Your students will get to do a project of real-world value and that they can put on their resume, unlike a term paper, which just goes into the ether." A cart at a busy bus or train station, at which you sell gifts such as scarves, ties, candy, flowers, or fancy soaps.

But what about high-tech businesses? Most people will more likely succeed in the businesses above. For example, countless people have tried to earn a living by creating an app. But for an app to sell, it must be and stay among the world's best because a Google search easily enables customers to find world-best apps, including those that may cost $0. In contrast, if you're, for example, selling flowers from a cart at a train station, they needn't be world-class. They just need to be good and the best at that station. And unlike with an app, you won't have to worry that a competitor at the station is selling flowers for $0.

10 Reasons Why You Aren't Getting Hired

interview jobYou'll probably never know exactly why you didn't get the job. If you're like most job seekers, it will remain an unsolved mystery. Most employers do not provide useful feedback for fear of legal ramifications or other hostile actions on the part of unhired applicants.

That said, there are typical reasons that may explain why you did not get the job:

Your resume didn't make a clear case for your qualifications. You did not articulate a connection between your skills and accomplishments and the employer's needs. It's likely that a computer scanning system, known as an applicant tracking system, reviewed your resume for keywords and phrases necessary to match you to the employer's needs. Even if it is very clear to you that you're well suited for the job, it's your responsibility to make sure that you demonstrate your skills and accomplishments in your resume. Do not rely on a cover letter or any other documentation you may send with your application to describe key reasons why you are well suited to the job. It's possible your target employer will not even see that information until you pass the resume screen.

There were grammatical or spelling errors on your application materials. This complaint often comes up when employers and recruiters gripe about job seekers. Especially if you are applying for a job that involves writing letters or correspondence, such as an administrative assistant, one typo or error can make the difference between landing an interview or not. It's difficult to proofread something you wrote yourself, so consider asking an eagle-eyed friend to review your cover letter and resume before you send them in. Alternatively, try to read your resume backwards. Of course, always spell-check your work, but be aware that spell-check doesn't pick up every error.

You were unqualified or overqualified. This is another common recruiter complaint. Many job seekers apply for every job that seems reasonable to them, but employers may consider the candidate ill-suited to the job. As a rule, do not expect interviews as a result of applying for positions you are overqualified or not quite qualified to do.

Employers filled the position internally. Sometimes, employers advertise jobs they intend to fill internally. When this happens, you never had a chance at an interview, anyway. It's frustrating for job seekers, but an unfortunate fact of the job search.

You already are asking for special favors in the interview stage. Consider this an interview killer. If you seem demanding or inflexible during the interview stage, assume the employer will worry about how you'd act once you have the job.

You didn't seem very interestedduring the interview. Once you win an interview, you have a lot more control over your chances to land a job. While you don't want to be overly solicitous, as employers may interpret that as desperation, you should muster energy and some enthusiasm for the job. When you describe your skills and why you are a good fit, make sure you communicate your interest and that you don't come off as a cold fish. Your interviewer will be looking for examples of specific skills in your answers, but he or she is also evaluating your personality and deciding if it is a fit for the team.

You don't do a good job distinguishing your personal contributions in your current or previous job. During the interview, you don't want to take 100 percent credit for everything in your work history, but it's important to avoid too much "we" language when you talk about what you've done in the past. Make it clear what accomplishments you own and separate them from the team's accomplishments.

You said something inappropriate in the interview. Did you let it slip that your boss was a real jerk? Did you make an off-handed comment putting down a team member? Did you get a little too comfortable in a lunch interview and use language more appropriate for the locker room than the boardroom? Even in an informal environment, don't let your guard down during an interview: everything you say can, and will, be held against you.

Your references were unenthusiastic. Do not underestimate the value of a strong work reference. If you come close on every job, but don't wind up with an offer, rethink your references. Could they be saying something that causes the employer to hesitate? Consider identifying new people to vouch for you.

Employers found inappropriate or questionable information about you online. Expect employers to Google your name and to find photos and comments posted on social media profiles. If there is anything online that may cause the employer to question your judgment, expect the hiring manager to take a pass instead of a chance on hiring you.

8 must-know workplace trends that could give you a competitive edge

Group Business Team
Judy A. Jenner, freelance writer 

The professional world has evolved, and to survive, your career tactics must evolve with it. Unlike your parents and grandparents, you can’t expect to work at one place your whole life. In fact, most Gen Y professionals will work at least seven jobs during their lifetimes, according to a Time magazine article. But that’s not the only change you’ll find in the modern job scene. What is the new corporate culture, and what do employers expect from workers? Find out with these eight need-to-know workplace and employee-centered trends.
Trend No. 1: Professionalism and teamwork
Work life in 2013 doesn’t look anything like what’s depicted on “Mad Men,” (women can be especially grateful for that). First, being cordial isn’t enough anymore. Employers want employees who can work in interdisciplinary teams to achieve common corporate goals. They are also big on professionalism, high energy and confidence. Universum, a Stockholm-based employer-branding firm that does extensive annual surveys, found that these are the top-three personality traits employers are looking for in candidates, as reported in a 2012 Forbes article.
Trend No. 2: Social media madness
We live more of our lives online, but many tend to forget that those lives are public. Before you tweet, post something on Facebook or comment on a blog with your real name, ask yourself, “Is this something I would like a potential employer to read?” Don’t be surprised if a potential employer requests your social media passwords so they can have a complete look at your Facebook profile. Luckily, recent legislation might put an end to that in certain states, such as in California, where the state senate recently voted for a bill banning employers from demanding access to social media profiles, as reported by The Huffington Post.
Trend No. 3: Continuing education
In these times of tight corporate budgets, your employer might not always be able to pay for that online MBA or Project Management Professional certificate, but they will still expect you to invest in your own professional development if you want to move up in the company — even if you have to pay for it out of your own pocket.
New trends in online education, such as the rising popularity of massive open online courses, may be the answer. MOOC sites such as Coursera, Udacity and edX feature tuition-free online courses from universities such as Stanford, MIT and Harvard.
Trend No. 4: Technology rules
Not having basic tech skills is not acceptable anymore — even for lower-wage jobs or for mature employees who might not have grown up with iPads or netbooks. Employers increasingly expect their employees to either have a company-issued mobile device or use their own device, which means having to be available via email during nights and weekends. According to the Society for Human Resource Management, the lines between personal and work life are blurred because of lower-cost and more effective communication technologies (Skype, social networks, etc.), which enable 24/7 business operations. Work in virtual teams is becoming more commonplace, prevalent and expected.
Not all the trends revolve around what employees should do to be successful in their field of work, however. Employers want to retain high-performing professionals and want to keep them happy and challenged.
Trend No. 5: Workplace flexibility
The reign of the 9 to 5 workday could be coming to an end. Employers are increasingly recognizing that traditional schedules might not be the best fit for employees trying to combine careers with having children — or for those with long commutes or other challenges. SHRM expects an increase in workplace flexibility and telework, which could invariably lead to more security and workers’ compensation issues.
Trend No. 6: Collaborative workspaces
In today’s workplace, cube dwellers may have to venture beyond the confines of their homey partitions, as open, collaborative workspaces and communal areas are becoming more commonplace. According to a March 2012 article by The New York Times, two-thirds of American office space is now configured in some sort of open arrangement, with the goal of increasing the free flow of ideas and eliminating the office as a status symbol — although it may perhaps come at the cost of some privacy and to the dismay of employees who prefer to work alone.
Trend No. 7: Corporate social responsibility
According to SHRM, organizations of all types and sizes are participating in philanthropic activities and devoting more resources to creating environmentally profitable and sustainable practices. Many organizations even use their social responsibility commitment as a competitive advantage, and participating in social projects can do wonders for employee morale, teamwork and company pride. The most admired companies for social responsibility, according to a list published by CNN Money, are Chevron, Walt Disney and Whole Foods Markets, among others.
Trend No. 8: Rewards and recognition
Companies have realized that workers crave other things besides money to keep them motivated. To that end, employers are offering a variety of rewards and recognition programs. Online retailer Zappos has built an entire culture around employee recognition, frequently hosting happy hours during which awards are distributed. They also have the Zollar (Zappos Dollars) Program, where employees can earn Zollars for good performance and teamwork. Another recognition builder, the 200-page “Culture Book,” has pictures from company events and unedited submissions from every single Zappos employee, further enhancing the company’s corporate culture and employee recognition focus.
As you can see, this isn’t your parent’s employment world anymore. But while a lot has changed in the workplace, change isn’t always a bad thing — especially if you’re prepared for it and armed with the latest knowledge.

How financial professionals can keep stress at bay

Work stressBy Robert Half International
Stress is a constant in the lives of many financial professionals. Multiple deadlines — from the monthly close to tax filings and quarterly financial statements — often mean working in a continual state of urgency.
But it’s not just the nature of the job itself that can be stress-inducing. According to an Accountemps survey, 41 percent of financial executives said trying to balance work and personal responsibilities is the greatest source of workplace stress. Office politics or conflicts with co-workers was cited by 28 percent of respondents. Surprisingly perhaps, only 16 percent said staying current with changing financial regulations was a primary stressor.
Even if the constant demands never seem to cease, you may be able to find ways to manage them better. Consider these six suggestions:
1. Understand priorities. Although everyone seems to want things “by close of business,” this expectation isn’t always realistic.
When you’re asked to perform a Herculean feat — especially one that comes out of nowhere — ask a little more about what’s needed and how you can be accommodating without ditching other personal or work obligations. It may be that your manager really only needs one critical piece of information rather than an entire report, or maybe you can break a project into stages. By understanding more about what’s needed and when, you can often lower your stress level while ensuring your ability to deliver.
2. Ask for what you need. Don’t be afraid to request additional flexibility. Perhaps you can join a conference call from home while you wait for a plumber or work from home one day a week to complete a regularly scheduled task. Considering the time involved in commuting in many cities, your boss may very well be receptive, especially if you make it clear what you plan to accomplish while telecommuting and then deliver on it.
3. Give yourself a break. Consider a self-imposed “timeout” from your work schedule, even during busy periods. To force employees to better manage stress, one high-volume accounting firm closes its office at 5 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays during tax season. Even if your employer doesn’t mandate such a practice, recognize that you may need to adjust your intensity level on your own sometimes.
4. Take it outside. It’s not unusual to feel added stress if you’re cooped up in a cubicle for 10 hours a day with hardly a glimpse of the outside world. A change of scenery may help you re-energize.
If you need to meet with a colleague to discuss a business matter, consider taking the discussion outside the office rather than to the conference room. Sit in the city plaza with a cup of coffee or take a brisk walk and exchange ideas. You’ll return to the office feeling less stressed, and a new setting may be just what’s needed to stumble upon a breakthrough idea.
Similarly, don’t hesitate to break away for lunch. Even if your to-do list exceeds your available time, it can boost your productivity to get out of the office briefly rather than eating at your desk and trying to power through.
5. Avoid the superhero syndrome. Recognize that your powers are not superhuman, even if you will them to be. Be realistic and speak up if you simply can’t take on another project. Let your boss know that you are willing to help, but you may need to shift some responsibilities to accommodate the new request. Your boss would rather know up front that you have too much on your plate than to have a project fall through at the last minute.
6. Book a vacation. If it’s been a while since you’ve taken time off, start planning your next extended break from the office. Your manager will likely be supportive: Most managers realize that vacations are good for morale and productivity.
When you do plan time away, try to truly unplug. Set up your email and voice mail to let others know you’re out of the office, and establish an alternate contact for urgent matters.
In any fast-paced, deadline-driven field, stress can easily get the best of you. You may be able to prevent it, though, by taking some of these simple, but effective, steps to regain balance in your work life.

Body Language and the Interview

The job market has tightened, the economy is down and you've got to find a job, now. You have a job interview coming up and you need every possible advantage to win that job. What do you do?
Recent studies have shown that employers will form an opinion of you within the first 10 minutes of the interview. 
But here's the kicker: It's not always based on what you actually say, but on something we term "body language." For instance, 85 percent of what you communicate is not with words.  It's through the tone of your voice, the way you sit and a wealth of other messages that your body involuntarily sends.  This is according to Greg Hartley, a body language expert who earned his chops with 20 years as an interrogator in the Army.
With this in mind, here are six dos and don'ts on the art of non-verbal communication to give you a winning advantage in a job interview.
1. Be real from the start
When you greet your interviewer, smile a real smile that engages your eyes, and offer a firm handshake. Say something like, "I'm pleased to meet you" to provide a positive anchor.
Janine Driver, a body language expert also known on the Internet as the "Lyin' Tamer," states that maintaining good eye contact shows respect and interest. She advises that in the U.S., 60% eye contact is ideal.  She suggests focusing on the upper triangle of the face from the left eyebrow across the bridge of the nose to the right eyebrow. Avoid staring at the other person's forehead, lips and mouth.
2. Watch the excess energy
The more energy you have, the more will need to be vented.  This often results in mannerisms Hartley terms "adapters."  What this means is that excess energy gets dissipated into fidgeting, a definite sign that you're nervous or ill at ease.  While it's easy to say, "Watch the fidgeting," Driver suggests you never touch your face, throat, mouth or ears during an interview. The interviewer may think that you're holding something back, typically, the truth. Although this is a false assumption, to try to establish credibility, it's necessary to avoid touching your face.
3. What to do with those hands and arms
Driver says that clasped hands are a signal that you are closed off. A palm-to-palm gesture with one thumb over the other thumb sends the signal that you need the interviewer's reassurance.
To come across as confident, receptive and unguarded, have your hands open and relaxed on the table. When your body is open, you project trustworthiness.
Avoid crossing your arms over your chest. When you do, you signal that you are close-minded, defensive or bored and disinterested.
4. Crossing those legs
Don't cross your legs. According to Driver, this posture creates a wall between you and your interviewer. It can also become a distraction when you keep crossing your legs back and forth. Crossed ankles are a "no-no" because you are signaling that you want to be elsewhere.
5. Posture
A straight posture is imperative during an interview. Pull your shoulders back and sit up straight. You'll give yourself a burst of confidence and allow for good breathing. This can help you to avoid, or at least reduce, feelings of nervousness and discomfort.
6. Finger gestures
Bet you never thought you had to worry about your fingers during an interview. Driver suggests that steepling your fingers makes you look arrogant. She also says to never point your index fingers like gun barrels.  These are the types of aggressive messages you want to avoid sending.

The 2 Best Ways To Follow Up With an Employer (Without Being a Pest!)


In the careers industry, I field a lot of questions about the job search everyday. Everything from resume writing tips to interview etiquette, I've heard it all.
A popular question I hear a lot is about the dreaded follow-up. After you've applied to a job or breezed through an interview, you need to follow-up.

How important is following up in the job search?
Following up is incredibly important. When you follow up with an employer, it tells them that you are invested in this company and this position. In essence, following up tells an employer you think they're important. That said, many employers won't consider a candidate who doesn't follow up as submitting an application or interviewing.

How can I follow up without being annoying?
While there are many different ways to follow up (phone call, candy gram, smoke signal...), most of these options are incredibly irritating to employers. After all, they're busy people who don't appreciate their day being interrupted by curious job seekers.
It seems logical that a phone call or following up in person would be the most direct approach, but many employers don't like it. When you call, it requires immediate action from the employer, taking time out of their day.
The two best methods give employers the power to respond when they want to, so that they have time to think over a response and really consider you again for the position:

1. E-mail
Sending a quick e-mail follow up is great for job seekers after submitting a resume or interviewing. The key to a perfect follow up e-mail is to keep it short, sweet, and professional. Thank them for their consideration, revisit the most important points, and remind them you'll we waiting for a response.

2. Thank you note
In addition to e-mail, a hand-written thank you note is the perfect follow up to an interview. This "traditional" method still rings true and tells employers that you are genuinely interested in this position. Sending a thank you note immediately following an interview ensures that it will be delivered a day or two later, the perfect window for following up.

DISCLAIMER: These follow up methods are great, just as long as the employer hasn't (a) specified a preferred method of follow up or, (b) mentioned they don't want any type of follow up. Pay attention and you can avoid a huge mistake!
What do you think? How do you prefer to follow up with an employer? If you are an employer, how do you prefer candidates follow up with you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Could A Bad Job Be Good For You?

By Robert Half International

A bad job can be the result of a range of issues. Perhaps it's a lack of growth opportunities for a sales coordinator who's held the same role for four years. Or maybe it's a work/life imbalance for an executive assistant who spends late nights at the office and still has to catch up on projects at home.

We've all had a bad job at some point along the way. If your list of cons is longer than your list of pros, don't fret. There are tactics you can employ to tip the scales back in your favor.

Here are five ways to find the upside no matter how bad a job may seem.

1. Connect with new people
The biggest asset at your disposal may be the people you work with. Expanding your circle to cross-departmental colleagues can bring about unexpected benefits.

For one, they might become sources of support and friendship, helping to improve your job satisfaction. Further, they may be able to expose you to new projects or areas of the company that could hold appeal.

So be a part of the office dynamic. This makes it easier to reach out to an extended group of people. Take part in hallway chats, attend birthday events and bring a casserole to the monthly potluck or the summer picnic. When new people join the company, welcome them and express your interest in learning from each other.

Remember not to mention your discontent. You're not looking for others to gripe with. Simply focus on areas of interest. Any shared experiences or knowledge can open up a useful conversation. Follow up later via email and build a continued dialogue over time.

Bonus tip: In addition to peers, consider connecting with managers and even executives. You can still look upward when networking internally.

2. Tap your potential
Ask for projects that allow you to stretch your abilities and develop new skills. You may find that you enjoy whatever it is you begin working on and that your dissatisfaction is not so much with the company but with your current duties. An added benefit: You also can include action verbs, such as "managed," "mentored" or "developed," on your résumé.
Bonus tip: Ask your supervisors how you're doing with a new assignment. If you get words of appreciation, thank them and keep any glowing emails or reviews for your records. You can use these as a résumé addendum or for your cover letter.

3. Investigate your industry
One thing a bad job can still help you do: explore your industry in greater depth. Many companies pay for memberships to industry associations and conferences, making it easier -- and more affordable -- to interact with your peers. By doing so, you can bring added value to your job, expand your professional network and potentially learn about future career paths.

You may even realize you're not as passionate about your profession as you once were. Instead of pinning your discontent on your current job, it may be the business that's not working for you. Sometimes it's hard to tell.

Bonus tip: Consider not just attending but speaking at an industry event. It's easier to get accepted as a speaker while employed, and being a featured presenter can boost your credentials in the eyes of future employers.

4. Propose process improvement
Your job dissatisfaction may be the result of barriers to efficiency in your office, such as a complicated approval process that drains your excitement for a project as it drags on. Rather than complain, suggest systems or processes that will alleviate pain points. Chances are you're not the only one who is frustrated.

You'll earn the goodwill of colleagues, and these individuals could serve as future references. Also keep in mind that spearheading these types of improvements is résumé gold.

Bonus tip: Create a proposal for your boss that clearly outlines the benefits of any changes you suggest. For example, "If we remove this review step, we can save a week in producing the financial report. Here's why that step is redundant."
5. Examine your career path
It's important to assess what you want -- and what you don't want -- from your future job to avoid landing in another unsatisfying position. And it's easier to reflect on your career path while employed; for one thing, you won't have the added financial stress.

Focus on targeting employers and roles that can offer you what you're looking for. This research phase can take time, so dig in now.

Bonus tip: Sign up with a staffing firm. A specialized recruiter can do much of the heavy lifting in a job search. These professionals are able to identify opportunities that might interest you and approach companies, confidentially, on your behalf. You don't have to make a move until you're ready.

Use the above tips to remain positive and productive when you're stuck in a bad job. Even if you can't leave at the moment, there are ways to stay motivated and find the right fit eventually.

How to back out of being a job reference

Back out of being referenceIn the later stages of the hiring process, it’s common for employers to ask candidates for references.
If you’re asked by a job seeker to serve as a reference, you may get a call from the employer, who will ask you some questions about the job seeker. It sounds simple enough but can become more complicated if your view of the job seeker isn’t as rosy as the job seeker may think.
If you’re asked to be someone’s job reference, but for various reasons, you don’t feel comfortable doing it, you may wonder whether you should decline or go ahead with it and give the employer your honest opinion. It’s a sticky situation, because you don’t want to cause friction between you and the requester, but you also don’t want to be put in an awkward position when faced with the employer’s questions.
The circumstances surrounding the situation may impact your decision — how well you know the person, what policies your company has about giving references, the depth of information you’ll need to provide. Yet the general consensus is that if you don’t have something nice to say, it’s probably best to say nothing at all.
“If you are approached to be a reference, but you feel you cannot speak appropriately or positively about a person’s work ethic and supporting skills, the best possible thing you can do is politely decline,” says Adrienne Tom, lead résumé strategist at Career Impressions. “If you do not feel 100 percent confident addressing someone’s work history or working style, you should never offer to be a reference for them.”
As Tom points out, references play an important role in the recruitment process and may even make or break a job offer. “Since references are a chance for employers to add to the information they learned from the candidate’s résumé and in the interview, what they find out from the references will either confirm their desire to hire the job seeker or make the decision not to extend the job offer. You do not want to be the one that prevents someone from getting a job offer simply because you don’t know them well enough or because you had a difficult working relationship to them.”
Consider your company’s policies
Sometimes, it may not be you who has the problem with giving a reference. It could be your employer. “Employees need to be aware of their employer’s policies regarding giving references,” says Keith Wolf, managing director at recruiting firm Murray Resources. “Some employers prohibit their employees from giving negative references, while a growing number of companies restrict giving any information at all, other than confirming the former employee’s dates of employment. Beyond the legal implications, it comes down to a matter of preference.”
Consider the level of the job seeker
Charley Polachi, partner at Polachi Access Executive Search, says that the impact your recommendation has may depend on the level of the job seeker. Polachi notes that for junior to mid-level employees, references may only be asked basic questions, such as dates of employment, positions held and compensation. In situations like this, you may be more inclined to agree to serve as a reference. However, you won’t always know what types of questions you’ll get, so keep that in mind when making your decision.
When it comes to references for senior-level executives, more information is often requested. “References are a critical component of vetting top-level candidates,” Polachi says. “In some cases, as many as 14-15 professional contacts can be approached for a finalist. Since the basics of these types of leaders are basically in the public domain, the value-add of in-depth reference checking can be a game changer in selecting the best candidate.” So if the job seeker requesting your reference falls into this category, and you’re not completely comfortable speaking on his behalf, you may want to find a way out.
Declining the request
If you’ve decided that you don’t want to serve as a reference, you may be tempted to come up with some sort of excuse. Resist that urge and lead with politeness and honesty. “When asked to give a reference that one would rather not give, the best policy is to be honest with the requester,” says Arron Grow, author of “How to Not Suck as a Manager” and founder of business consulting company Workplace Sanity Group. “How open to be about this will depend on the rapport between the two individuals. If there is not a close connection, a simple, ‘I’m sorry I wouldn’t be comfortable doing that’ should suffice.”
Grow goes on to say that if you do feel comfortable sharing more, you should. It will only help the job seeker in the long run. “A better way to go … would be to explain why there is hesitation about giving a reference. People cannot grow if they do not know what areas they need to work on. Hearing about an area that might be in their blind spot will likely hurt at first, but not knowing where they could do better will hurt them even more in the long run. For this reason, people should rather want to know than not, so if the conditions are appropriate, share your reasons for not being willing to give a reference. Tact and diplomacy are the keywords in this situation.”
While the hope is that any request you receive to give a reference will be from someone you had a good working relationship with, it may not always be the case. By assessing the situation and being open and honest with the requester, you should exit the conversation with your relationship intact.

How to deal with embarrassing situations at work

We all understand that nobody’s perfect, everybody makes mistakes and sometimes embarrassing situations happen. When we’re among friends or family, this isn’t the worst thing to occur. However, if an embarrassing situation arises at work, whether you’re witnessing it or it’s happening to you, there may be the sudden urge to go hide under a rock till things blow over and co-workers stop bringing it up.
But before you take up residence under the nearest stone, learn some coping methods for the next time you find yourself flushing over an embarrassing situation at work or are the one to deal with a co-worker’s embarrassment.
If you’re the one who’s embarrassed…
Acknowledge the mistake with a joke. Craig Griffiths, founder of Ask Find Buy, says, “If I am embarrassed, I raise the issue acknowledging my embarrassment so we can all have a laugh and move on. Once I attended the wrong meeting. I was supposed to be attending a community funding group, but accidentally wound up at a lesbian group meeting discussing other community issues. Each person introduced themselves before it finally got to me. I just said ‘Hi, I am Craig, I am in the wrong meeting, but I can take the minutes.’ All the women laughed their heads off. As long as there is no negative impact, having a laugh and moving on is good.”
Deal with the situation. Ignoring an uncomfortable circumstance at work will only hold the embarrassment over your head. Vivian Scott, author of “Conflict Resolution at Work for Dummies,” says, “Not wanting to deal with an embarrassing situation can make matters worse! My advice is to own it, make apologies, and/or laugh about it. Years ago I responded to an email my manager had sent about wanting us to work more with an individual outside our group. I replied with a scathing account of my experiences with the person, only to find out she was also included in the email and received my response. I decided to own it right then and there and walked to her office for a chat. Instead of sugarcoating it, I apologized for not bringing issues to her attention sooner. The two of us worked through how we could more effectively work together and it became a non-issue.”
Keep your poise. Doris Jeanette, a licensed psychologist and trained sex therapist, says, “The best way to deal with embarrassing situations is to be graceful and smile. If you are relaxed, it will relax the situation and allow others to reduce their judgments and anxiety.”
If a co-worker is the one who’s embarrassed…
If the embarrassment comes from a personal problem that’s affecting co-workers, be considerate and brief when you bring up the issue. For example, if a co-worker or employee has an unpleasant odor, Jeanne Miller Rodriguez, an instructor at Sacramento State University, College of Continuing Education, says, “Speak privately with the employee. Be kind and diplomatic in how you present the issue. Do not mention who complained. Just say that you had noticed, and wanted to bring it to his attention. Emphasize his positive qualities relative to performance, personality, and demeanor. Do not assume the issue is a result of poor hygiene, there could be a medical issue at play.”
If a work-related incident is causing embarrassment for a co-worker or employee, know what you’re going to say and how you’ll say it to keep the confrontation brief. Brittany Dowell, director of publishing relations at Digital Talent Agents, says, “I was new to management and one of my interns made a very careless screw-up in an email with a client, which reflected badly on my professional brand and the company’s image as a whole. The intern needed to be reprimanded, but I dreaded the awkward encounter of telling someone they royally messed up. I prepared for the meeting as fully as possible by writing out exactly what I needed to say. The experience taught me that receiving an embarrassing reprimand from a manager might be just as awkward and embarrassing for that manager to deliver.”

Is your social networking profile costing you a job?

Social media communication conceptAdmit it. When you’re perusing people’s profiles on Facebook and other social networking websites, you sometimes judge them. “Bob is always partying.” “All Karen does is post pictures of her cats.” “Henry’s status updates are so annoying.”
Well guess what, prospective employers are doing the same thing to you. They’re checking out your social media profiles, and if they see something they don’t like, it may end up costing you a job. According to a new CareerBuilder survey, 39 percent of hiring managers use social networking sites to research job candidates, up from 37 percent last year. Forty-three percent of those hiring managers say they have found information that has caused them not to hire a candidate, up 9 percentage points from 2012.
The content that condemns
If you’re worried about what kind of message your profiles could be sending employers, you should know what turns employers off the most. According to the survey, employers took candidates out of the running based on a variety of concerning content, including:
  • Candidate posted provocative/inappropriate photos/information — 50 percent
  • There was information about candidate drinking or using drugs — 48 percent
  • Candidate bad mouthed previous employer — 33 percent
  • Candidate had poor communication skills — 30 percent
  • Candidate made discriminatory comments related to race, gender, religion, etc. — 28 percent
  • Candidate lied about qualifications — 24 percent
When your profile props you up
Before you run to your computer and remove yourself from every social networking site you’re on, keep in mind that your online presence can positively impact your job prospects too. If what you have on your pages is attractive to employers, it may help solidify their decision to hire you. Nineteen percent of hiring managers say they found something that has caused them to extend a job offer. Top mentions include:
  • Candidate conveyed a professional image — 57 percent
  • Got a good feel for candidate’s personality — 50 percent
  • Candidate was well-rounded, showed a wide range of interests — 50 percent
  • Candidate’s background information supported professional qualifications — 49 percent
  • Candidate was creative — 46 percent
  • Great communication skills — 43 percent
  • Other people posted great references about the candidate — 38 percent
“Employers are using all the tools available to them to assure they make the correct hiring decision, and the use of social media continues to grow,” says Rosemary Haefner, vice president of human resources at CareerBuilder. “For job seekers, it is essential to be aware of what information they’re making available to employers and to manage their online image. At the same time, hiring managers and human resources departments must carefully consider how to use information obtained from social media and whether it is relevant to a candidate’s qualifications.”
Sending the right social media message
When hiring managers use social media as a screening tool, they’re trying to get a sense of your behavior and personality outside of the interview. They want to see if you present yourself professionally and if you’d be a fit with the company culture.
If you’re unsure of whether your profiles are setting you up for job-search success or failure, Haefner offers these tips:
Search yourself: The easiest way for employers to research your online personality is a search on Google and other sites. Try it out for yourself so you know exactly what they’ll see, and remove any digital dirt you wouldn’t want a potential boss to encounter. Some browsers may save information about you, so search from a public computer to be sure you’re getting the right results.
Read your privacy settings: Social media sites change their privacy settings often, and occasionally this leads to a change in your personal settings. It’s good practice to check in on the privacy settings for all of your accounts regularly.
Showcase your talent: This is your opportunity to provide evidence that you are as exceptional as your résumé says by posting awards and accolades you’ve received, volunteer activities, accomplishments you’re excited about, etc. Employers often search social media to learn more about your qualifications or to see that you are well-rounded, so be sure to put that information front and center.
Keep tabs: Just because you’re being careful with what you put online doesn’t mean your friends are necessarily so cautious. Pay attention to what others are posting on your profile and what you’re tagged in to protect your online image.

8 Terrible Questions To Ask In An Interview

The success or failure of a job interview doesn't rest solely with the answers you give the hiring manager. The questions you ask can also speak volumes.

In a recent Robert Half survey, human-resources managers recounted the most unusual or surprising question they've received from a job seeker during an interview. Some of the highly questionable queries included:
  • "Do I have to be at work every day?"
  • "Would you consider going on a date with me?"
  • "Can I have three weeks off every three months to pursue my music career?"
  • "Can my husband finish this test for me?"
  • "Is the boss single?"
  • "Do you want to take a ride in my new car?"
  • "Can you help me search for an apartment?"
  • "What job is this for?"

Peculiar or presumptuous inquiries such as these can quickly undermine an otherwise solid interview performance. On the other hand, posing intelligent and informed questions shows the interviewer you're a serious candidate while also helping you to determine if the role is right for you.

Here are some smart questions worth asking:

While researching your company, I learned that [fill in the blank]. Can you tell me more about that? Impress interviewers by making it clear you've done your homework. Learn as much as you can about the organization before your meeting.
Closely review the company's website, marketing materials and recent financial reports. Tap your professional network for anecdotal insights and follow the company on LinkedIn, Twitter or Facebook.

Weaving some beyond-the-basics information you uncovered into your questions showcases both your interest and resourcefulness.

What types of training and development programs do you offer? Generally speaking, it is unwise to ask an employer what the company plans to do for you once hired; at least until the interviewer has sent signals that a job offer is likely. But bringing up training and development opportunities in an initial interview isn't the same as jumping the gun about salary, benefits or vacation time.

Companies seek candidates who are committed to continually expanding their skills. If applicable, mention several pertinent proficiencies you've gained through professional development programs in the past.

What are some potential career paths within your company for a person starting in this position? This question shows you're goal-oriented and career-minded. It also emphasizes your desire to grow with a company. Considering the significant amount of time, money and resources that companies invest in hiring and training new staff, it's beneficial to indicate that you're looking to stay onboard long term.

Why is this job open? Some questions are less about strategically pitching yourself and more about eliciting details that shed greater light on the job and the company.
For example, it's a good sign if the previous person got promoted or the position was newly created because the company is growing. If, however, there's been high turnover or your would-be predecessor is "no longer with the company," consider these warning signs that warrant another question or two.

What do you enjoy most about working here? Job seekers don't always think of it this way, but an employment interview is a two-way street, and the efforts to impress should go both ways. Good interviewers will play up the advantages of working at the company, because they want to win you over. Asking this more personal question and getting the individual to explain why she is with the company can provide invaluable insights.

Pay attention to how the interviewer responds to this question. Was the answer delivered quickly, with detail and enthusiasm? Or was there an awkward pause followed by a vague, tepid endorsement? Remember: Happy, satisfied employees won't have any difficulty describing what they like about their job and the overall organization.

10 tips for immigrants on their first U.S. job hunts

Job tips for immigrants
By Upwardly Global

If you’re an immigrant to the U.S., finding a job is probably on the top of your priority list. How to do so, however, might remain a mystery. The process may be very different than what you would have done at home. Here are 10 things you need to know for your professional job search in the U.S.

1. You don’t have to go back to school in the U.S.
Your foreign degree is not only valid here, it can be just as valuable. To show this to employers, you may want to get your credentials evaluated by an organization such as World Education Services. While there are some instances where continuing your education might be worthwhile, it’s not always necessary, and a credential evaluation could be just what you need.

2. Don’t put personal demographic information on your résumé.
Marital status, ethnicity, age, religion and photographs should all be left off of your résumé in the U.S. as employers are not legally allowed to consider this information in the hiring process.

3. Be specific.
Whether it’s in a résumé bullet point or in an interview response, give examples structured around Problem, Action, Result. What was the problem, how did you act, and what was the result?

4. Be quantitative and results-oriented.
Showcase your achievements in terms of numbers, e.g. increased revenue by 40 percent, decreased employee turnover by 10 percent, or came in under budget on 98 percent of projects. American culture treasures numeric valuations of achievements, so if you want yours to shine, back them up with some figures.

5. Arrive on time.
While in some cultures it is perfectly acceptable to arrive at a meeting 10 minutes late, Americans do not take kindly to it. If you have an interview, be at least 5 minutes early. You might want to arrive 30 minutes before and relax at a nearby coffee shop before going in –– you don’t want to arrive at the office any more than 10 minutes ahead of time (there is such a thing as being too early, as well).

6. Be aware of your body language.
Smile, make eye contact and have a firm handshake to exude confidence. It’s not just about what you say, it’s also about how you say it. In American culture, you approach an interviewer as a peer, which may be quite different than the way you would approach them in your home country.

7. Network, network, network.
Meeting new people is essential to your search, as they can tell you more about the employment landscape here and about opportunities that are not yet publicly advertised. Find networking events or meet-up groups to expand your circle, and make sure to follow up and stay in touch with a personalized message on LinkedIn.

8. Ask people for informational interviews.
Like networking, it’s a great way to learn more about your industry from an insider’s perspective and make key contacts. An informational interview is not a job interview; it’s a casual meeting to learn more about how the job search works for your specific profession.

9. Be positive.
A positive attitude is an important part of U.S. professional culture.  Americans are the “can do” people and negativity doesn’t sell here.  Instead of focusing on frustrations with your job search, think about your strengths and share your excitement about new experiences and opportunities when talking about your search during networking or informational interviews.

10. Your international experience is an asset.
Promote your cultural savvy on your résumé and highlight any language skills. Remember: Your foreign degree and experience is an advantage. You will bring a unique perspective to a company, and employers are looking for that.

3 steps to juggle multiple interviews


We often hear of job seekers struggling to land interviews. However, what if you're one of the lucky ones to be offered multiple job interviews with different companies?
Though you are in a good position, you may slip up since there is so much on your plate. For instance, you could mix up company values. You might forget important documents. You could even accidentally name drop an executive at one of the other companies with which you're interviewing. These errors don't represent you as the impressive candidate you are -- and they certainly don't help your chances.
However, juggling multiple interviews shouldn't be seen as added stress. They should be used as an opportunity to steer your interviewing experiences in the right direction. Check out these tips to make it happen.
1. Create a plan
Mapping out how you're going to succeed in your interviews is important. Establishing a tentative "interview plan" can help you avoid any mix-ups. Creating a simple spreadsheet or completing a worksheet that lists dates, times, interviewer background and basic company information can keep your interviewing experiences in check and separate from one another.
Talking points for each interview can also be written in your plan. For instance, if a company had a recent merger, you can plan to discuss this with the interviewer. Or, if you are also interviewing with a rival company that sees this merger as a threat, you can offer them an alternative perspective. Without the necessary research and planning, you could make a mistake and damage your interviews. Creating a plan helps you avoid this.
2. Stay organized
Staying organized is probably the most difficult part about multiple interviews. Company X may want a portfolio. Company Q may request that you submit your résumé online in a certain format. Company Z may require recommendations and endorsements.
Failing to stay organized and jumbling up important details can harm your chances. Instead, prepare for each interview separately. For example, you can create a customized portfolio for Company X. You can then draft a résumé for Company Q that is catered to their needs. Later, you can pull references for Company Z who can highlight why certain experiences make you the right fit. Each of these is different and customized for the particular interview.
Though the easy solution may be to create one-size-fits-all content, it's not the route to go. Each interview should be seen as a distinct and individual event. Staying organized can help you get there.
3. Be completely present
Having more than one interview in a small span can hinder your concentration. When this happens, you have an increased chance of stumbling through the interview as though you weren't prepared. Instead, focus on being completely present – physically and mentally – during each event.
For example, don't worry about Company Q when you're sitting with members of Company X. Company X needs to have your focus. They need to know your expertise. They need to understand your value. Being elsewhere mentally will show in your interview performance. The days before your interview with Company X should be used only for Company X, so you're in the zone as soon as you walk into the room. Once the interview is over, you can then focus on your other opportunities.
If you're one of the fortunate job seekers who have multiple interviews lined up, count yourself lucky. However, luck can only go so far. Create a plan, stay organized and be present in each interview. The outcome of each will be more positive when you do so.

9 Things You Should Never Say In A Job Interview

interview mistakesInterviews are probably the most challenging part of the job search process. You need to be ready for anything, including weird interview questions.You don't want to blurt out something inappropriate and send all of your hard work down the toilet. Avoid these inappropriate comments during your interview:

1. I'm really nervous. There's nothing wrong with feeling nervous. It's natural to be a little uneasy at an important interview. Don't tell the interviewer if you have butterflies in your stomach, though. Your job in the interview is to portray a confident and professional demeanor. You won't win any points by admitting your nerves or blaming them for any failures in your performance.

2. I don't really know much about the job; I thought you'd tell me all about it. This is a big job seeker mistake, and it can cost you the opportunity. Employers spend a lot of time interviewing, and they expect candidates to have researched the jobs enough to be able to explain why they want the positions. Otherwise, you could be wasting everyone's time by interviewing for a job you may not even really want. Asking questions is important, but don't ask anything you should know from the job description or from reading about the company online.

3. My last boss/colleague/client was a real jerk. It's possible (even likely) that your interviewer could prod you into telling tales about your previous or current supervisor or work environment. Resist the urge to badmouth anyone, even if you have a bad boss. It is unprofessional and the employer will worry what you may say to someone about him or her down the road. Instead, think about ways to describe past work environments in terms of what you learned or accomplishments you're proud to discuss.

4. My biggest weakness is (something directly related to the job). "What's your weakness?" is one of the most dreaded interview questions. There's no perfect reply, but there is a reply you should never say: Never admit to a weakness that will affect your ability to get the job done. If the job description requires a lot of creativity, and you say your creativity has waned lately, assume that you've taken yourself out of the running. Choose a weakness not related to the position and explain how you're working to improve it.

5. @#$%! Granted, profanity seems to be much more accepted in many workplaces today. However, an interview is not the time to demonstrate that you can talk like a pirate.

6. Just a minute; I really need to get this call. It's amazing how many hiring managers and recruiters report that interviewees answer their phones and respond to text messages during in-person interviews. Turn off your phone during interviews and you will not be tempted to reach to answer it.

7. How much vacation time would I get? Never, ever ask questions in an interview that may make it appear that you'll be overly focused on anything other than work.

8. Can I work from home? Even if you're pretty sure the company has a lenient work-from-home policy, the interview isn't the best time to ask about it.

9. Family is the most important thing to me. This is true for many people. However, you do not need to explain how devoted you are to your family during your job interview. It is unlikely to win favor, even in organizations with a well-known family-friendly environment. You want your potential employer to envision you being totally devoted to his or her needs.

When in doubt, pause before you say what's on your mind. If you wonder if it's Ok to ask, assume it's better to avoid the topic altogether.

One Easy Thing You Could Do To Help Your Job Prospects

job prospects

By Brian Clapp

If you've just graduated or are wrapping up an internship and find yourself in job-seeker mode, you've probably been inundated with the career cliche: "It's not what you know, but who you know."

Those are nine very scary words for anyone without many professional contacts. (And who are we kidding? Lots of us lack professional contacts when we're new to the workforce.) That cliche can also turn into an excuse: "I don't know anyone, so how in the world am I going to break into my field? I might as well just give up, move home and plant flowers with Mom."

Don't worry; we've all been there. And digging in the dirt with Mom should scare you way more than creating a network. Put down the Garden Weasel, take a deep breath, and start building your network from the bottom up with a simple technique anyone can replicate.

What's this technique?
We all know it's important to make the right impression by working hard, listening to advice and learning from your mistakes. But you want to be truly memorable, right? For that, you need a follow-up plan.

Try this: Each time you meet someone through an internship, volunteer work, networking events, conferences and career fairs, go low-tech to correspond with them.

What do I mean by low-tech?


Write hand-written cards.

Whoa! Crazy talk!

Every guy reading this just thought, "Sounds kind of... girly. Should I put unicorn stickers on the note, too?"

Get over yourself. Everyone sends emails; it's an easy way to communicate and shows no real effort. Be different... and if you must, buy manly cards.

In today's office environment, the average person gets about 50 to 100 emails per day. Per day! Now imagine how your meager "thank you for your time" email is treated amid a sea of meeting requests and inter-office banter.

Writing a handwritten note is a welcome change among all the computer-generated fluff -- a warm heartbeat in a sea of cold Arial font. It's real. Just make sure you have a human spell-checker who's as good as Microsoft's.


Okay, I bought cards. Now what?

Keep a record of all the people you make contact with and specific things they helped you learn. Within a week after your internship (or conference visit, or networking event) is complete, get to work writing and sending out your cards.

The biggest takeaway: Keep it simple and make it specific.

Let's say you shadowed a sales manager for a local pro sports team and they allowed you to listen in on a sales call. Here's an appropriate card to send:

"Just wanted to say thank you for allowing me to shadow you during my recent internship at (insert company name). Being able to listen in on your sales call and hear how smoothly you were able to close a deal gave me great insight into what it takes to work in sales. I graduate in the spring and really look forward to talking to you again in the near future."


In one simple card, you've:
  • shown you appreciated the opportunity and their time.
  • proven you paid attention.
  • shown respect for their advice.
  • told them when you are available for a full-time job.

This technique can be applied to any industry: sales, business, broadcasting, advertising, you name it.

In my career, I've interviewed hundreds of potential employees and received just three hand-written cards. Three. Two of those people got hired, and the other was a Seattle SuperSonics cheerleader who dotted her i's with hearts but wasn't qualified.

Those three people were disruptive to my normal routine -- in a good way. They stood out. You can stand out, too, and build a network of contacts and supporters from the bottom up with just the power of your pen.

Things NOT To Do During Your Job Search

discouraged looking woman sitting at a laptopBy David Bakke

Although the economy has shown some recent signs of recovery, the current unemployment rate is still stubbornly high.

Since there are plenty of obstacles standing in your way to a new job, it's imperative to hone your approach. See if you're making any of these job-hunting mistakes, and fix them before it's too late:

1. Not proofreading your resume.The quality of your resume is what forms most potential employers' first impression of you and opens the door to job interviews, so it's important to make sure it's perfect. Whether you create one on your own or have it professionally prepared is up to you; just be sure it is 100 percent error-free.

In addition to making the paper version of your resume perfect, make sure that the one you send via email arrives without any messed-up formatting or funny breaks. To create a version of your resume that can be embedded in the body of an email, remove all current formatting by opening your resume and saving it as a plain text (.txt) file -- and remember to click on the box that says "insert line breaks." Then, reopen it with the Notepad program. Be sure that all of the text is flush with the left-hand side of the document, and ensure that you have used only clear, easy-to-read fonts. Save that version and you're done. Email it to yourself to review what it looks like when it arrives.

2. Becoming discouraged. Searching for a job can be difficult and lonely. You may interview with dozens of companies, never to hear from them again, and you may experience many unreturned phone calls as well. In the midst of all this adversity, it's important to maintain a positive attitude and an upbeat outlook. Becoming discouraged only works against you.

If you're unemployed, you probably have some free time on your hands. Spend a portion of it to keep your attitude and outlook healthy. Stay in shape, stay connected to friends, join networking groups and learn new skills to add to your resume. These types of activities can keep you motivated and reduce the amount of time you have to become discouraged.

3. Telling the whole world you're looking for work. This is especially true if you're employed. If your boss finds out that you're thinking about leaving, he could speed up the process by giving you the boot. The last thing you want is to lose your current position before you've found a new one. Keep your job search to yourself.

4. Using a singular strategy. If you want to find a job quickly, search for leads in every way possible. For instance, 36 million people used social media to find a job in 2011. If you've been ignoring that avenue, start checking sites such as Facebook and LinkedIn regularly for job announcements. Checking job boards is also a good idea, but if you're intent on working for a particular company, consider showing up in person. You may not land a job interview, but you'll at least get your face in front of someone, which could lead to an opportunity down the road.

5. Underestimating the power of networking. While some job events and career fairs may seem like a waste of time, you never know where your next key contact will come from. Embrace networking as a major piece of your job-hunting strategy. Join or become more active in professional groups. You may also want to volunteer for functions with your professional networking group. This is a great way to stay involved and get noticed by the movers and shakers in your field.
6. Forgetting to keep all points of contact professional. Whether it's the voice-mail greeting on your cellphone or the appearance of your social media pages, make sure everything looks and sounds immaculately professional. If employers are interested in you, be assured that they will investigate you, and that includes visiting your online profiles. If you have anything that you wouldn't feel comfortable with an employer -- or your mother -- seeing online, either remove it or be sure that your privacy settings on Facebook prohibit an employer from seeing it. That way, you present yourself in the best light possible.

Final thoughts: Remember, many of your job-search expenses are tax-deductible: resume preparation fees, paper supplies and postage, the cost of gas needed to drive to interviews, and more. Consult the IRS website for a complete list of details and restrictions, and hold onto your receipts. Finding work may be your top priority right now, but you'll thank yourself for reducing your tax burden once you're employed.

Easy Solutions To Work Stress

How To Minimize Stress At WorkBy Susan Ricker

Between commutes, budgets, client demands and deadlines, it's no wonder work can be a huge source of stress. More than three quarters of workers are feeling the pressure, too: An overwhelming 77 percent of workers say they are sometimes or always burned out in their jobs, according to a CareerBuilder survey. How can you tell what's worth stressing over and what's not such a big deal? Here are some common areas of stress, as well as tips to help deal with those sore spots while still performing well at work. Financial worries. Often one of -- if not the biggest -- concern for businesses, workers and families, financial worries can be a major source of stress. And with slow economic recovery, many businesses and families alike are having to do more with less. However, don't let money concerns settle like a dark cloud over your life.

The key to battling stress. If you're concerned that your business is struggling or that your team doesn't have the funds, go over budgets to find areas you can cut back on. Also ask if there are ways to improve productivity, like investing in training sessions or new technology.

Take the time to organize your budget. See what you have to earn in order to make ends meet, as well as what your paycheck would need to be if you're looking to start saving more or pay off large bills. Look for hidden cost-savers that your company might offer, such as corporate discounts for your cell phone provider or reimbursement for a gym membership. You can also meet with a representative at your bank to help form a financial plan that will ease your concerns. You might find that your best path to making ends meet is to look for a new job with better salary.

Manage your time. Workers are expected to do a lot with a little amount of time: commuting, handling deadlines, getting over-scheduled with too many responsibilities and also bringing work home or checking in through phone and email. If you never feel like you have enough time, it's likely because you don't have enough time to yourself, free of distractions or work demands.

First, organize what responsibilities you have at work, as well as outside of work. Also include what priorities you'd like to make time for, be it projects at work, spending more time with family, getting to the gym regularly or simply being able to leave work at work.

Next, organize your schedule to play to your strengths. Do you have more energy when you first come into work or later in the day? Schedule your biggest tasks around when you have the most time and energy to commit to them. If you tend to slow down in the afternoons or later in your shift, this is a better time to tackle smaller tasks like answering emails or regular, day-to-day business.

Doing too much? If your list of responsibilities reveals you've taken on more than your job originally entailed, it may be time to meet with your manager. Clearly outline what your responsibilities are, as well as what you've taken on or regularly help with. If you're happy with the workload, this may be the time to ask for a promotion. If you'd like to cut back, ask to have your role more clearly defined or to have unrelated projects delegated to other team members. Also address availability when you're off the clock: do you need to regularly check in? Your boss may agree that you don't, or you can work out a compromise that complements both schedules.

Look for the sources Sometimes small amounts of stress from different areas of work or life can add up to an overwhelming feeling that spoils any feelings of productivity or happiness at work. If this is the case, start a running list of what triggers stress or worry throughout the day. By identifying the sources, you can start looking for solutions. Check out these tips for managing workplace stress:
  • Keep an updated calendar and to-do list to manage responsibilities and avoid missed deadlines or appointments.
  • Sidestep fatigue by taking breaks from your desk or workplace, even for a few moments, to allow yourself to mentally reset.
  • Exercise regularly, get enough sleep and eat foods that keep your body satisfied and full of energy.
  • Have hobbies and interests outside of work to keep you from fixating on job-related concerns.
No matter your source of stress, it's important to address the issue and find ways to ease the burden. Employers understand workers can feel burned out, and it's in everybody's best interest to keep employees happy and healthy. If you're worried you have too much to deal with, reach out to your manager, a co-worker, doctor, therapist, family member or friend. Remember, everyone has a tough day or an overwhelming project from time to time, but you shouldn't feel stressed out on a daily basis.

10 Great Things I Learned From Getting Fired

Sallie KrawcheckBy Sallie Krawcheck

There are some things worth being fired over. Sometimes your personal values don't mesh with the company's (regardless of what the company's "Values Statement" says).

Back in 2008, at Smith Barney, we had sold supposedly low-risk investments to our clients. But instead of their value declining modestly during the downturn, they went to very close to $0. I never found any evidence of wrongdoing; but I did recognize that we had nonetheless breached our clients' trust, regardless of what the small print said. I proposed that we share part of the losses with them – both because it was the "right thing" to do, but also very much because sharing the impact of the hit would, I thought, be the "right business thing" to do. There were others who disagreed; after much back-and-forth (and many "no's"), my team's argument won the day, but it was clear I wasn't long for the company.

Squeeze every bit of personal development out of the experience. OK, this one can be hard. But in the first few weeks out of the company, I made it a practice to ask anyone and everyone what I could have done better or how I could have managed the situation more effectively. This was hardly pleasant, but surprised people into an invaluable honest discussion.

But don't listen to your "frenemies." Know who to listen to. I remember a very senior, very connected, very savvy woman who very kindly told me that my career was over, that having a falling out with a large company was a career-ending event, regardless of the reasons. She authoritatively told me that a man might be able to have a next career chapter, but a woman couldn't. I chose to completely ignore her.
Cut the cord with the old workplace more quickly than you may want to. Here is where I made a real mistake. I continued to speak regularly to my former colleagues; my reasoning was that I wanted to be helpful to them and continue to coach them. The truth is, it was a sad drag for them and for me. I should have closed that door faster.

It's important to have connections outside of your company. This is pretty self-explanatory. But it's easy to tell yourself that you'll form these connections later, since few people plan to be fired and the return on this investment can be hard to see, when there are always more urgent matters.

If you're able to, don't make any big decisions right away. I had a friend tell me shortly after I left: "When something like this happens, you think you're thinking straight, but you're not. You won't think straight for at least three months." If you have the luxury of avoiding any major career decisions that long, the perspective you gain after decompressing can be valuable.

Nobody cares as much about it nearly as much as you do. I promise.

... But candor helps with future employers.Evading the question wasn't a particularly good idea in 1985, when your awkward silence may have been a giveaway. In this age of social media, it's an even worse idea. Own it.

Good results help even more. Let's face it: it's one thing to be swept out of a company because a new manager wants to put his own team in place and another because you didn't deliver business results. In finding that next job, be fact-based and specific on the business results you and your team achieved in the prior one.

If you don't get fired at least once, you're not trying hard enough. This isn't quite true yet, but it is becoming truer. As the pace of change in business increases, the chances of having a placid career are receding. And if in this period of rapid change, you're not making some notable mistakes along the way, you're certainly not taking enough business and career chances.

You can't beat someone who won't give up. Yes, I read this on a bumper sticker, but it's still true.

Why You Should Stop Looking For A Full-Time Job

By Melanie Fischer

Have you been looking for a full-time job but only been able to find part-time positions? Earning money through part-time work is better than not earning money at all, but it's not always optimal.

Maybe you've been thinking about trying to get two or more part-time jobs to earn the same amount of money you'd earn with one full-time gig. But beware: This can be more difficult than you might think.

Here are some pros and cons that you need to think about when it comes to part-time work:

Pro: Part-time job hours can be flexible.
It may be that you're only able to work during morning hours or on weekends. In this type of situation, you may be able to find one part-time job to fill your morning hours and another part-time job on Saturdays or Sundays. Most full-time positions don't offer this type of flexibility, so working one or more part-time jobs may provide you with the work-life balance you need and want.

Con: Extra commuting.
One aspect of a 40-hour-a-week job is that you normally go to your job at a specific time of day, stay there for eight hours and then go home at the end of your shift. With two or more part-time jobs, it's likely you'll spend a considerable amount of time commuting from one to the other (unless you work from home). The time it takes to get to and from numerous part-time jobs can significantly extend your workday.
Pro: If something happens to one job, you still have the other.
You may have greater job security if you have two or more part-time jobs instead of one that's full-time. If you work several part-time positions and you lose one of them, you will still retain a portion of your income while you look for a replacement for the other.

Con: Switching gears.
Besides the extra time it takes to get from one part-time job to another each day, working more than one part-time job in different industries can be hard on your body and brain. It can also be difficult to concentrate on one job while thinking about the other.

Pro: Gaining broad professional experience.
Don't be discouraged if you're working one or more part-time jobs to make ends meet while searching for a full-time position. You can absolutely succeed professionally by working this way. One benefit of working several part-time jobs is that they will expand your professional skill set. Additionally, you may be able to use multiple part-time jobs as leverage against each other if any of the employers eventually offers you a full-time position.