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Is Now The Right Time To Ask For A Raise?

Would you rather stay at your current pay level or get a raise? The answer is obvious -- who wouldn't want a bigger paycheck? While you may be ready for a boost to your bank account, don't be so sure that your boss agrees. Your supervisor will consider many factors before giving your bigger paycheck the green light.

How can you figure out if it's the right time to ask for a raise, as well as the odds of getting it? The following tips will help you determine if now's the time to meet with your boss or if you're better off waiting.

Do your homework. Just because you want a raise, it doesn't mean that your company believes you deserve it. No matter how well your company is doing, its leaders have to make smart decisions about money and can't always offer the lavish thanks you may believe you deserve.

How can you make your case that a raise will make everybody happy in the long run? First, do your homework. Know how your salary compares with the market value compensation for your role. Are you being fairly compensated, or are you being undervalued?

Next, read your company's compensation policies. Have you met its criteria, or can you find a policy in your favor? Take notes while you peruse the information to put together a solid case for yourself. Are there minimum compensation adjustments or a maximum amount you can earn? Do performance evaluations serve as the basis for determining raises?

If your company doesn't have a compensation policy –and many don't -- you may have more wiggle room. The average raise can range from 3 to 5 percent. While you may want to jump for the 5 percent raise, can you prove that you deserve it?



Create your own self-evaluation. It's essential that you not only know what you're worth when you want a raise, but that you can back up your request with proof. Whether you want a raise now or in a few months, keep a list of accomplishments that you update regularly. That way, you don't have to scramble to come up with them on the spot.

Your boss will be most convinced by numbers and facts. What extra duties are you taking on that would otherwise go unfinished? What work are you doing that would otherwise have to be done by hiring a new employee? Work out the numbers of how much your work costs and whether or not you're being fairly compensated.


Plan your approach. Once you've assembled your materials, get your pitch ready and choose the right time to meet. Consider all factors when picking the right moment. Did your company have a good quarter? Are raises being planned for the near future?

Also consider your boss's performance. If your boss has been slacking lately or didn't receive a strong performance review, it's unlikely that she'll be able to sign off on a raise. Even small factors such as how your boss has been feeling can matter. Avoid bringing up a raise right after your boss was out with the flu or is dealing with a client crisis.

Allow yourself enough time with your boss to present your case and have an open conversation about getting a raise. When you are able to make a fair and well-presented case for yourself, you can confidently expect a positive outcome.


Be ready for 'No.' If your request for a raise gets turned down, don't get caught by surprise. Your boss will most likely share her reasons for denying the raise, so listen up. The company may not have the money, or she may believe your performance doesn't justify a raise. Take her response as constructive criticism. It will help you plan how to improve your work performance and help you prepare for the next time you ask for a raise.








Source: AOL

The best and worst states for job seekers

The states with the lowest and highest unemployment rates

Recent signs have pointed toward economic growth. The national unemployment rate in December was 8.5 percent, a rate that has continued to trend down since February 2009.
Yet not all states are created equal when it comes to economic recovery. Some states weathered the recession better than others. And while most states have seen a decline in unemployment post-recession, others have dealt with fluctuating jobless rates. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' recent breakdown of regional and state unemployment numbers for December, the most recent figures available, "Twenty-four states reported jobless rates significantly lower than the U.S. figure of 8.5 percent, eight states and the District of Columbia had measurably higher rates, and 18 states had rates that were not appreciably different from that of the nation."
In taking a closer look at which states are on the road to recovery and which ones are still hitting speed bumps, we first reviewed each state's unemployment rate as of December. We also examined trends in joblessness -- whether it's been on the decline and the rate at which it's declining -- and other factors such as foreclosures and household income. Here's a look at some of the best and worst states for job seekers.

Best state unemployment rates:
1. North Dakota
Why: During the recession, North Dakota's unemployment rate peaked at 4.3 percent in 2009, a rate that was still significantly lower than the national average. The rate hasn't gone above 4 percent since April 2010.
Unemployment rate: 3.3 percent
2. Nebraska
Why: Nebraska was the state with the second-lowest unemployment rate in December, at 4.1 percent. It also experienced statistically significant employment changes from December 2010 to December 2011, with a job gain of 13,100.
Unemployment rate: 4.1 percent
3. South Dakota
Why: South Dakota had one of the lowest pre-recession unemployment rates in the country -- just 2.8 percent in December 2007. Its current jobless rate is still well under the national average. In addition, it saw a statistically significant employment change from November to December 2011, with a job gain of 4,600.
Unemployment rate: 4.2 percent
4. New Hampshire
Why: New Hampshire's unemployment rate is 3.4 percentage points lower than the national average. What's more, according to statistics released by the U.S. Census Bureau, New Hampshire has the highest median household income in the U.S., at $66,303**.
Unemployment rate: 5.1 percent
5. Vermont
Why: Vermont's December unemployment rate was 5.1 percent, and it has experienced a statistically significant year-over-year unemployment rate decrease of 0.7 percent. It also ranks in the top 15 in median household income, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Unemployment rate: 5.1 percent
6. Iowa
Why: Iowa's unemployment rate of 5.6 percent is at its lowest level since June 2009. According to the state, Iowa has added 13,300 total jobs compared with a year ago.
Unemployment rate: 5.6 percent
7. Minnesota
Why: This Midwest state has experienced a statistically significant year-over-year employment change from December 2010 to December 2011, with a job gain of 26,300. Its current unemployment rate is the lowest it's been since September 2008.
Unemployment rate: 5.7 percent
8. Wyoming
Why: After the unemployment rate peaked at 7.7 percent in late 2009, the rate has continued to trend downward and is currently 2.7 percentage points lower than the national average. Additionally, Wyoming has the lowest unemployment rate in the Western region.
Unemployment rate: 5.8 percent
9. Utah
Why: Utah saw a statistically significant employment change from December 2010 to December 2011, with a job gain of 36,000.
Unemployment rate: 6 percent
10. Oklahoma
Why: Although Oklahoma's unemployment rate has hovered at 6.1 percent since October 2011, it did have a statistically significant employment change year-over-year from December 2010 to December 2011, with a job gain of 41,600.
Unemployment rate: 6.1 percent
Worst state unemployment rates
1. Nevada
Why: Nevada has the worst unemployment rate in the country, at 12.6 percent. It also saw a statistically significant employment loss of 9,800 jobs from November to December 2011. To rub salt in the wound, Nevada topped RealtyTrac's list of state foreclosure rates in 2010.
Unemployment rate: 12.6 percent
2. California
Why: While California's unemployment rate did decrease by 0.2 percentage points from November to December 2011, its rate of 11.1 percent is still 2.6 points higher than the national rate. According to RealtyTrac, California's December foreclosure rate was one of the highest in the nation.
Unemployment rate: 11.1 percent
3. Rhode Island
Why: Rhode Island has the worst unemployment rate in New England. It's also one of the three states where unemployment increased in December.
Unemployment rate: 10.8 percent
4. Mississippi
Why:
According to the Census Bureau, Mississippi has the lowest median household income, at $36,850. Its unemployment rate also experienced an increase from a year prior.
Unemployment rate: 10.4 percent
5. District of Columbia
Why: While the District of Columbia isn't a state, it's still worth including on the list given its high unemployment rate, which increased from a year earlier, going from 9.6 percent in December 2010 to 10.4 percent in December 2011.
Unemployment rate: 10.4 percent
6. North Carolina
Why: North Carolina has the highest unemployment rate in the South Atlantic region, excluding the District of Columbia. Its December unemployment rate of 9.9 percent is 1.4 percentage points above the U.S. average.
Unemployment rate: 9.9 percent
7. Florida
Why: While Florida's unemployment rate is on the decline, it's still the seventh-highest in the country. Plus, it had one of the highest 2010 foreclosure rates, according to RealtyTrac.
Unemployment rate: 9.9 percent
8. Illinois
Why: According to Business Insider, Illinois is one of the top 10 states with the most foreclosures in 2010, with 151,304 last year.
Unemployment rate: 9.8 percent
9. Georgia
Why: While the state's unemployment rate was down in December for the third consecutive month, the state labor department disclosed that metro Atlanta's unemployment rate rose to 9.4 percent from 9.2 percent in November. Georgia also experienced the third-largest over-the-year percentage decrease in employment of 0.4 percent.
Unemployment rate: 9.7 percent
10. South Carolina
Why: South Carolina's median household income of $42,059 is the seventh-lowest in the nation, according to the Census Bureau. Its unemployment rate hasn't been below 9 percent in three years.
Unemployment rate: 9.5 percent

 

 

 

Source: careerbuilder

7 Reasons You Didn't Get a Promotion


didn't get promoted
If you're stumped on why you didn't get the big promotion you've been pining for, read these seven reasons to adjust your expectations and attitude:

1. You asked too soon. Employers want to promote you to keep you happy -- it's in their best interests -- but it's possible that you asked for a promotion too soon and before you were ready. Are you sure you're mature enough in your job to take on a higher title? Do you have the leadership and teamwork skills that such a position would require? Before you get upset at being passed over, take an honest look at your answers.

2. You did your job. And only your job. You don't get promoted for doing your job, you get paid for it. Getting promoted is about doing more than expected, discovering opportunities, and providing immense value. If you meet expectations, feel free to pat yourself on the back, but don't be surprised when you don't climb the ladder. To get ahead, you don't need to be a workaholic, but you do need to go above and beyond your current responsibilities.

3. Your desired title doesn't exist. When you ask for a promotion, you're asking your employer to create an entirely new position, and sometimes that position isn't available, plain and simple. The increased workload associated with the position may not be necessary or there may not be room in the budget. Either way, decide if you're willing to wait it out, or if you should job-hop to get the challenge you desire.

4. You're entitled. Promotions aren't based on how long you've been at a company, but your career development within the company. If you think you're God's gift to your employer, chances are you're not. You need to have a team attitude. Try expressing interest in the company's wider goals instead of your own individual success. Do work because you're interested and dedicated, not just as a reason to get ahead. Employers can sense the difference.

5. You want a significant raise. A better title doesn't always mean a better paycheck. If your company can't afford to give you a raise, they may turn down your request for a promotion altogether. If you're only interested in more challenges and responsibility, make it clear that you're willing to forgo a potential salary increase at the start, and request a three-month review after you've proved yourself.

6. You have a horrible attitude. Yes, you get the work done -- you may even bring fantastic results -- but you do so grudgingly. You believe you know better than anyone else at the company, and make sure everyone knows it. Likability at work is just as important as crossing tasks off your to-do list; managers and employees alike want to enjoy coming to work and if you make that difficult, expect a long road ahead.

7. You're unemployable. You have vision, drive, and initiative, but just can't seem to work under other people. If you're a motivated high-performer who is consistently unhappy and not satisfied in your current position, consider that it may not be a promotion that you want, but the ability to work for yourself. Try consulting on-the-side or building your own company. At the very least, you'll gain respect and understanding for the challenges your former managers faced.


Losing out on a promotion doesn't have to be a roadblock; ask for feedback, do an honest assessment on your skills, abilities and attitude, and cultivate a genuine understanding of your company's position to continue your journey up.






Source: AOL

5 Secrets to Working With a Recruiter

As any professional who has ever been out of work knows, finding a job is no small feat. Locating positions of interest and convincing employers you are the one to hire appears simple. In reality, it can be unnerving and frustrating, particularly if the search has been a lengthy one. Enlisting the assistance of a specialized recruiter can ease some of the pressure and help you target your efforts to only the most promising opportunities.
1. Sometimes it is about who you know
Professional recruiters have deep networks of business contacts within a wide range of companies and industries. While you are diligently scouring newspaper and Internet ads, they can uncover leads and vacancies that have not been advertised or even announced, thus giving you an advantage over job seekers who rely solely on information that is posted in the public domain. Recruiters also can serve as career advisers. For example, in Louisville, Ky., a recruiter with Robert Half International recently partnered with an information technology professional who, despite years of relevant industry experience, had been unable to generate any employment interviews of note. The recruiter helped the individual rewrite his résumé to better highlight the candidate's experience with servers and the .NET platform, leading to immediate interest from employers. In addition to working with you to refine your application materials, a skilled recruiting professional can offer guidance on everything from answering tough interview questions to negotiating the best compensation package to how to dress for your first day of work. They also can help you navigate career crossroads and explore new fields.
2. Not all recruiters are created equal
When selecting a recruiter, it's important that the individual is an expert in his or her field. For example, if you are hoping to find work as an accountant, someone who has experience in the accounting and finance field will be better able to understand your needs and the expectations of potential employers. Ask friends and colleagues for referrals. Also consider contacting a few recruiting professionals in your area to gauge the level of rapport you have with each. Above all, you must be comfortable with the person with whom you have partnered and confident that he or she has your best interests at heart. In addition, remember that you should receive a recruiter's assistance free of charge. These individuals are paid a fee by companies to locate qualified candidates, so view with suspicion any recruiter who asks you to pay for job-search services.
3. The more information, the better
When meeting with a recruiter for the first time, be open and honest about your background, experience and career aspirations. He or she needs to know as much about your professional life as possible to find the right position for you. Are you looking for a tax accountant role in a corporate or public setting? What are your salary requirements? Do you prefer working for a large or small firm? Are you willing to travel? The information you provide may prompt the recruiting professional to suggest promising positions or career paths that you had not previously considered. You also should disclose to your recruiter any aspects of your work history that may generate concern from prospective employers, such as a long period of unemployment or termination. The more upfront you are, the easier it will be for a recruiter to assist you.
4. Follow up, follow up, follow up
After each employment interview your recruiter arranges, call to let him or her know how the meeting went. Your feedback can provide information that can be leveraged in follow-up communication with the employer. This could pave the way to a second or final interview. By following up, you also may receive valuable insight into your interview skills and learn about any concerns expressed by the hiring manager. Throughout the relationship, be forthright in communicating any changes in your career needs or availability. If you're interviewing for other jobs that you've set up on your own, let your recruiting manager know. He or she may have contacts at the company and be able to help you secure the position.
5. Patience
Although using the services of a skilled recruiter can significantly improve your odds of locating employment, even the most successful recruiting professionals need time to find the perfect position for the job seekers they represent. So, don't get discouraged. Recruiters continually mine their sources for job leads and may suddenly discover an opportunity that is right for you. If you'd like a status update, don't be afraid to call your recruiter with questions. Checking in with him or her on a regular basis ensures both of you remain focused on the best opportunities for you. A skilled recruiting professional can help you find the right job faster and open doors to new opportunities. By researching firms and maintaining communication, you'll be in the best position to locate and secure your next position.




Source: careerbuilder

25 Weirdest Interview Questions


answering weird interview questions"If you were to get rid of one state in the U.S., which would it be and why?" What would you say if an interviewer asked you such an off-the-wall question? Forrester Research asked this of a candidate for a research associate position; it's No. 1 on Glassdoor's list of "Top 25 Oddball Interview Questions for 2013."

Glassdoor compiled these questions from the tens of thousands of interview questions job candidates shared on their site over the past year via their Interview Reviews feature. The weird questions are in no particular order, but were chosen by a team of Glassdoor data scientists who analyzed submitted questions. According to Glassdoor, to date, they have collected more than 235,000 interview reviews and 300,000 interview questions from around the world. Interview Reviews include details from actual job candidates about the entire hiring process, including the interview format, how the interview was achieved, the average interview length and overall ratings on the overall interview experience.

If the thought of facing oddball questions in an interview makes you want to pack it all in and give up your job search, don't despair. One of the best things about questions like this is that there is no right answer. Employers who pose this type of inquiry are usually trying to assess your thought process.

Sometimes, they can pick up important feedback that really helps distinguish you from the crowd. For example, No. 5 on the list (asked of a Dell consumer sales candidate), "What song best describes your work ethic?" elicited some interesting replies on Glassdoor's person on the street interviews. One man said, "Nine to Five,' because I work nine to five." In this 24-hour economy, that's not as good an answer as one woman's comment, "Under Pressure,' by Queen, because I work really well under pressure." (For more advice, see how to ace even the strangest interview questions.)

Below is a complete list of Glassdoor's 25 oddball interview questions:
  1. "If you were to get rid of one state in the U.S., which would it be and why?" -- Asked at Forrester Research, of a research associate candidate.

  2. "How many cows are in Canada?" -- Asked at Google of a local data quality evaluator candidate.

  3. "How many quarters would you need to reach the height of the Empire State building?" -- Asked at JetBlue of a pricing/revenue management analyst candidate.

  4. "A penguin walks through that door right now wearing a sombrero. What does he say and why is he here?" -- Asked at Clark Construction Group of an office engineer candidate.

  5. "What song best describes your work ethic?" -- Asked at Dell of a consumer sales candidate.

  6. "Jeff Bezos walks into your office and says you can have a million dollars to launch your best entrepreneurial idea. What is it?" -- Asked at Amazon of product development candidate.

  7. "What do you think about when you are alone in your car?" -- Asked at Gallup of associate analyst candidate.

  8. "How would you rate your memory?" -- Asked at Marriott of a front desk associate candidate.

  9. "Name 3 previous Nobel Prize Winners." -- Asked at BenefitsCONNECT, Office Manager candidate.

  10. "Can you say: 'Peter Pepper Picked a Pickled Pepper' and cross-sell a washing machine at the same time?" -- Asked of a MasterCard call center candidate.

  11. "If we came to your house for dinner, what would you prepare for us?" -- Asked of a Trader Joe's crew candidate.

  12. "How would people communicate in a perfect world?" -- Asked at Novell of a software engineer candidate.

  13. "How do you make a tuna sandwich?" -- Asked at Astron Consulting of an office manager candidate.

  14. "My wife and I are going on vacation, where would you recommend?" -- Asked at PricewaterhouseCoopers of an advisory associate candidate.

  15. "You are a head chef at a restaurant and your team has been selected to be on 'Iron Chef.' How do you prepare your team for the competition and how do you leverage the competition for your restaurant?" -- Asked at Accenture of a business analyst candidate.

  16. "Estimate how many windows are in New York." -- Asked at Bain & Company of an associate consultant candidate.

  17. "What's your favorite song? Perform it for us now." -- Asked at LivingSocial of an Adventures City manager candidate.

  18. "Calculate the angle of two clock pointers when time is 11:50." – Asked at Bank of America of a software developer candidate.

  19. "Have you ever stolen a pen from work?" -- Asked at Jiffy Software of a software architect candidate.

  20. "Pick two celebrities to be your parents." -- Asked at Urban Outfitter of a sales associate candidate.

  21. "What kitchen utensil would you be?" -- Asked at Bandwidth.com of a marketer candidate.

  22. "If you had turned you cell phone to silent, and it rang really loudly despite it being on silent, what would you tell me?" -- Asked at Kimberly-Clark of a biomedical engineer candidate.

  23. "On a scale from 1 to 10, rate me as an interviewer." -- Asked at Kraft Foods of a general laborer candidate.

  24. "If you could be anyone else, who would it be?" -- Asked at Salesforce.com of a sales representative candidate.

  25. "How would you direct someone else on how to cook an omelet?" -- Asked at Petco of an analyst candidate.







Source: AOL

10 Things You Should Never Tell Your Boss

Keep Personal Info Personal

Discrimination in the workplace is illegal. It's also despicable and certainly not anything we condone. In an ideal world, the details of our personal lives wouldn't matter nearly as much as our performance and productivity on the job. But the cold, hard truth is employers may still make decisions based upon details of an employee's life.
From judging workers based on Facebook photos to thinking twice about promoting someone with kids or a chronic illness when another employee is free of those obligations or difficulties, there are kinds of potential pitfalls. By revealing some private information to your boss, you could set yourself back when it comes to a raise or promotion.
Obviously every workplace is different and bosses will vary. If you have an understanding manager who sees the value in knowing employees on a personal level, this article probably won't apply to you. But if you're not that lucky, you may wish to keep the following details about your life private if you want to maximize your success.


10. Night Life

Whether you're reading bedtime stories to your kids or hitting the bars every night, your boss shouldn't know anything about your night life unless it includes taking classes in your field or doing extra work from home or your favorite cafe.
If you can't complete an after-hours work task due to a hot date or helping kids with homework, it's best to simply indicate that you have other obligations at home. Keep the personal drama at home.

9. Religious Beliefs

It's against the law to discriminate against religious beliefs, but talking about religion too often at work is inappropriate (unless you work for a religious organization).
If your job duties entail something that violates a religious belief, you should speak up. You do not necessarily need to be specific with your boss; you can simply indicate that the task at hand violates one of your beliefs. If possible, present an alternative or workaround.
We're all entitled to our personal religious beliefs, but remember not everyone is religious and a workplace is not a church. It's all about common sense. A Bible quote on your cubicle is no big deal, but proselytizing and trying to convert your coworkers is going to ruffle a few feathers and could potentially put your  job security on shaky ground.

8. Political Affiliation

The quickest way to alienate people in a mixed crowd is to talk about politics.
Your political affiliation should remain private information. For a myriad of reasons. First of all, you risk offending coworkers and your boss while creating an uncomfortable work environment. But more important, once a boss knows about your affiliation, you could be judged as too open or closed-minded for a particular job. Even if your boss treats you equally, political prejudices still exist and could easily work against you.

7. Spouse's Income

You might be wondering why this is on the list, but trust us -- your boss shouldn't know about your spouse's income.
If your spouse is CEO of a successful company and a coworker vying for a job has an unemployed spouse your boss is aware of, you could lose out on a promotion even though you're equally qualified because it may seem as though you don't "need" the promotion. Even if your boss isn't conscious of that information playing a part in his/her decision, you don't want to take any chances where your career is concerned.

6. You're Working Another Job

Many people work second jobs, including freelance positions. But your other business should stay your business.
Companies often develop and expand non-competition agreements and policies instructing employees to retain only one job. As your company could implement such a policy at any time, you should avoid telling your boss about other work obligations so you can continue to fly under the radar and make ends meet.
Not to mention, if you have an annual review with your boss and he/she cites a decrease in your performance, your boss could easily point the finger at the time and energy you're spending working at the second job. Don't give anyone any excuses to question your work ethic.

Read more at www.salary.com 






Source: Salary

5 Critical Ways Job Search Has Changed -- And How To Make The Most Of It

If you're looking for a job for the first time in a long time, you're probably stunned by how much has changed. Successful job seekers embrace the changes and take advantage of new technological opportunities. If you want to be successful and competitive in today's market, make sure to consider the following factors when it comes time to do a job search:

Applicant tracking systems: This isn't a new phenomenon, but many job seekers don't realize how important it is to cater application materials to appeal to the computer systems that screen resumes. It's crucial that you target your materials specifically to address the jobs that interest you. Do not assume a human being will read and interpret your resume; make a very clear and specific case for why you are well qualified. Do not expect someone to read between the lines of your materials and to give you credit for skills you do not specifically mention. Take advantage of the lengthy job descriptions employers provide and include specifics about each of the details they request in your application materials.

Employer databases: In the old days, you could safely apply for a job, and if you didn't get it, apply for another position with the same company a few months later without the company having a record of the previous application. Today, companies maintain information about applicants and their hiring professionals will notice if you apply for a variety of different positions or try your luck by submitting different resumes over and over again. Job seekers who apply for every job available at one company can assume someone will notice they aren't focusing their efforts. Additionally, if you make a lot of mistakes on your application, it could stay on your record with the company, even if you update your materials. Be aware that you're creating a paper trail whenever you apply for a job.

Social media: Job seekers have never had more access to information about organizations and individuals than they have today. A click of the mouse or an easy Google search provides context about interviewers, details about company culture and streams of information from people who work in organizations where you want to work. Job seekers should learn to use social media tools. Today's networking possibilities are tremendous; you don't need to hope your brother-in-law's neighbor can introduce you to someone in a target organization -- you can connect with a networking contact directly via a few tweets on Twitter or via a group discussion on LinkedIn.
Employers are checking you out, too: While access may open doors, the flip side is that the onus is on job seekers to make sure to have optimized online profiles. If employers Google you and can't even find a LinkedIn profile, they may wonder if you are the type of employee they want to join their organization. It's up to you to make sure you create and maintain social media profiles and content that makes it clear that you have the skills and experience you say that you have on your resume. If you apply, indicating what a great collaborator and team player you are, but your social media updates are full of argumentative remarks, you're unlikely to land an interview for that job.

Competition and a shifting economy: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, an estimated 40 percent of all U.S. workers now work part time or as contractors. People who study career and employment trends have been predicting this shift for years. The result? There are fewer full-time, traditional positions, and job seekers need to learn how to market themselves as freelancers in order to secure work. Luckily, social media and online tools make this easier than ever, but it's a trend many are slow to understand and appreciate. Even if there are still many full-time opportunities in your field, you may find this long-term trend catches up with you and your industry sooner than later. Smart job seekers think strategically about making a clear case for their skills and expertise online and to build a community of potential allies now. When you learn to market yourself online, you're more likely to succeed in this new economy.






What You Can Tell From Your Boss's Signature


CEOs big signature narcissistic Ever wonder what your boss's signature might say about him or her? A new study suggests that chief executives with outsized John Hancocks are more likely to be narcissists. Big signatures may also mean the CEOs are less capable and poor performing, though that doesn't mean they take home smaller paychecks.
In fact, the study of 605 U.S. CEOs, released by the University of North Carolina business school, found that those with large signatures make the most money -- regardless of how well or poorly they do their jobs. (Shown above is President Barack Obama's signature, which wasn't included in the study.)

In focusing on the size of the signature, ABC News reports, the study is believed to be the first of its kind, according to its authors, who defined narcissism as being conceited and having little regard for others. Narcissists, generally, have heightened opinions of their own capabilities and performance, and tend to dismiss the abilities and advice of others.

The hundreds of CEO signatures were mainly gathered from financial documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission as of July 2011, professor Sean Wang, one of the study's three authors, told ABC News. The signatures were then run through a software program to aid in comparison. "We standardized the measure by dividing the area by the number of letters in the CEO's signature," Wang said.

The researchers, he said, relied on findings from psychological literature that "a bigger signature means a bigger ego, on average, though other factors may also determine signature size."

Other experts expressed skepticism. Narcissism experts James Westerman and Jacqueline Bergman of Appalachian State University told the network that other factors can determine signature size, including, high self-esteem and an extroverted personality.

Wang said that he and his colleagues aren't claiming a direct correlation between big signatures and poorly run companies, but rather, on average, it appears to be true. One noteworthy example, first cited by Fast Company, compared Carly Fiorina, the (now former) CEO of Hewlett-Packard Co., and Michael Dell, founder and CEO of Dell Inc. Fiorina has a larger signature than Dell, but HP underperformed its rival by getting lower return on its investments.

Which CEO has the largest signature? Wang said it was Timothy Koogle, who ran Yahoo Inc. from 1995 to 2001 and was the Internet company's chairman from 1999 to 2003. Koogle's tenure mirrored that of the dot-com bubble and its burst. But even allowing for that "relatively strange time," Wang said, Koogle very much fits the model.

From 1997 to 2001, Wang said, Yahoo paid no dividends, made "extremely high investments," and provided Koogle some of the highest compensation in Silicon Valley.





Source: AOL

Could You Be a Translator?


In the modern business world, the ability to communicate in more than one language can be a tremendous asset. The person who can speak and write multiple languages will be in greater demand, as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that translator jobs will increase faster than national averages through 2014.

What's fueling this trend? Homeland security issues, large numbers of foreign-language speaking immigrants, and recent requirements for federally funded healthcare facilities to provide language services to non-English speaking patients, mean that people with the knowledge and familiarity with various languages are in-demand.

President Bush announced the National Security Languages Initiatives in January 2006, requesting more than $100 million in funding to develop the country's foreign language skills, especially in "critical need" languages like Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Persian, Hindi and Central Asian languages.

This increased attention to "critical need" languages puts translators and interpreters with these skills in the catbird seat. Language specialists working for the federal government earned an average of nearly $72,000 in 2005, and some specialized translators can earn more than $100,000 a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

"A translator or interpreter with security clearances and knowledge of a "critical need" language can make upwards of $140,000 a year with an assignment in Iraq," says Kevin Hendzel, spokesman for the American Translators Association.

While homeland security jobs may have a high profile, the increasing number of non-English speaking immigrants in America are creating a large number of jobs as well.

"In Alexandria, Va., the local schools need to provide services for people who speak 82 different languages," Hendzel says. In addition, demand for those who can translate, interpret and have certifications to do so rises exponentially within public services, like hospitals and court systems.

"A translator or interpreter working full time can make between $40,000 and $65,000 a year on average," Hendzel says. "But many choose to work as freelancers for $200-$500 per day."

Other opportunities for translators and interpreters come from the global economy. "Open any VCR and the directions are in five languages -- that's all work done by translators," Hendzel says. "Corporations operating in many countries require a number of translators and interpreters. The European Union spends over a billion dollars a year on interpretation and translation."

But just because you're fluent in more than one language doesn't mean you can do the job of an interpreter or translator. "If you're multilingual and think you can translate, it's like being able to type and calling yourself a novelist," Hendzel says. "Translators and interpreters deal with meanings, not just words. It takes creativity and the ability to process two languages simultaneously."

If you're multilingual but not qualified to serve as an interpreter or translator, careers as an ESL teacher or multilingual hospital worker are also growing fields. A student today who is fluent in more than one language would do well to study in a specialized field like medicine, sciences or law, as each of those fields have their own language of sorts, says Hendzel, whose own specialty is physics.

Though many people call translators and interpreters "linguists," the true definition of linguist is very different.

"Classic linguists don't even need to be fluent in more than their own language," says Anthony Aristar, professor of linguistics at Eastern Michigan University and moderator of the Linguist List, a listserv for linguists. "What they need to know is how language works."

In recent years, the demand for linguists has also been increasing. With an advanced degree in linguistics, one could pursue careers in such diverse tracks as pharmaceutical research and information technology.

"Languages are dying at a large rate," Aristar says. "While there are about 7,000 languages in use today, in another 100 years, there will likely be only 2,000." Pharmaceutical companies use linguists to identify how plants are used in healing by tribes, extrapolating clues for their use from language. For example, Aristar says one of the first drugs to come from this sort of exploration is quinine, which is used for malaria.

"Linguistics today is a very formal discipline, more like mathematics that anything else," Aristar says. Training a new generation of part-detective, part-mathematician, part-scientist scholars will provide fascinating challenges, if not the more attractive salaries of the private sector.







Source: careerbuilder

Intern Cover Letter

 
 
 
 
RONALD GLICK
46 Jane Street, #7C -- New York, NY 10038 --
(H) 212-799-5000 -- ronglick@aol.com

February 10, 2013

Jill Worthington, Supervisor

XYZ Company

1251 6th Avenue

New York, NY 10036

Dear Ms. Worthington:

I read with great interest your job posting on CareerBuilder for an intern.

My experience in office, retail, and academic environments has given me the opportunity to master administrative, time management, and customer service skills. Despite the diversity of the jobs I have held during and after college, all the positions seem to share some common themes. In each role I was asked to interpret and simplify information and interact with others on a regular basis.

As a college student, I tutored several freshman and seniors in multiple subjects while successfully juggling a full-time course load. Over the course of two summers, I helped grade school children improve their language arts and math skills. Through administrative roles at two major New York area hospitals, I streamlined patient record information, automated data storage and retrieval processes, and managed receptionist duties as needed. As a crew member for Fast Food Express Restaurant, I learned how to manage cash register responsibilities, provide excellent customer services, and interact effectively with the public. In addition, I am proficient in the Microsoft Office Suite and I have a degree in Math from SUNY Oswego.

At this juncture I am seeking a new opportunity where I can apply the above-mentioned skills and add value to another organization. My resume is attached for your review and I look forward to a personal interview.

Sincerely,






Ronald Glick






Source: AOL

Ready For A Career Switch? Don't Skip These Steps


career change tips
Given the recovering economy, emerging jobs and pure human nature, career switches are common. What may have been a great job 10 years ago can be obsolete now. But how can you prepare yourself for a career switch? These experts share the following advice for planning your next career steps.

Understand the work involved in switching careers.
Before you quit your job, know what you're getting yourself into. "When people change careers in this market, the No. 1 thing they must be aware of is that they need to develop the new industry or role experience and knowledge," says Megan Fox, career coach and resume writer. "A lot of people think they can tweak a few transferrable skills and land their dream job, when in fact it takes strategic planning and re-education to make a successful career change. These kinds of activities not only make you more qualified for the new role, but they display a sincere passion for the switch. I also encourage my clients to pick either an industry change or a functional role change, one at a time, as it is much easier to do than trying to completely change your job and industry type at the same time. Take baby steps and you'll be able to make the change without sacrificing too much in salary."

Use transferable skills to your advantage.
You may think you're ready for a career switch, but how can you convince hiring managers that you'll be a valuable employee? "For job seekers dealing with career changes, we find it advantageous to conduct an assessment of the transferable knowledge and skills that were developed in the individual's previous career and how that may apply to the new career path they intend on following," says Lynda Zugec, managing director for The Workforce Consultants, a human resources consultation company with offices in Toronto, Ontario and New York. "Interpersonal skills, problem-solving ability and project management are all examples of knowledge and skills that can be applied in differing context and careers. We try to focus on these transferable skills to understand the benefits and applicability to our business. Some of the skills we focus on include the following:
  • Communication -- This entails the ability to communicate at all levels of an organization and across different generations.
  • Strategic thinking -- The ability to determine and envision where an organization is going. This will help align work efforts with company goals and objectives.
  • Partnership building -- Work rarely occurs in a vacuum, and the better their skills in deciding who they can best partner with to achieve desired results, based on their skills and knowledge, the better off we will be.
  • Conscientiousness -- Time and time again, conscientiousness proves itself to be among the No. 1 predictor of job performance. We hire individuals that pay attention to the details. Spelling and grammatical errors, lost and misplaced files or general disorganization can have major implications.
  • Technical skills -- We look for individuals with up-to-date and relevant technical skills. They are among the most desirable."

Be prepared before you leave your job.
You can start making your career switch before you leave your current role. Krista Mazzuca, director of human resources at Community Renewal Team, a nonprofit human-services agency in Hartford, Conn., offers these suggestions:
  • Think carefully about the field you want to switch into and what it will take to land a job in that field. Don't assume that going back to school will guarantee that you'll obtain your desired position -- often you need both the credentials and the experience. Find out as much as you can before enrolling in a school program.
  • While you're still employed at your first job, get as much experience as possible that moves you in your desired direction. How can you volunteer in the community, change assignments at your company or find synergies between what you're currently doing and what you hope to be doing?
  • If you're a manager, prepare for a potential change in status. You may have to start near the bottom in your new career, which may mean that you're working a defined shift in a cubicle and taking direction from someone younger than you. You might also have to take a substantial pay cut. The person interviewing you for the position will want to see that you have thought about this and have acclimated yourself to the possibility.
  • Prepare a good answer as to why you're changing fields. Be candid, but frame your argument around the hiring manager's point of view.



Source: AOL

Why Unemployment Stretches Are Getting Shorter


unemployment length

NEW YORK -- The average time Americans spent unemployed dropped a record 2.8 weeks in January ... but hold the applause.

The reason is likely because many people ran out of unemployment benefits so they stopped looking for work, experts said.

"People are getting frustrated and are giving up," said Adam Hersh, economist with the Center for American Progress.

The average duration of unemployment was 35.3 weeks in January, down from 38.1 weeks in December and 40.2 weeks a year earlier, according to the latest monthly jobs report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

There are other indications that the ranks of the long-term unemployed are thinning. The median duration of employment, which is less affected by those who've been out of work for many months or years, was 16 weeks in January, down from 18 weeks in December.

And the number of people out of work for at least six months fell to 38.1%, down a percentage point from the previous month. December was the first month this figure fell below 40% since the end of 2009.

The cause of the big drop likely stems from the fact that federal extended jobless benefits were curtailed in several states in January because their unemployment rates improved, said Claire McKenna, policy analyst at the National Employment Law Project. To receive unemployment checks, the jobless must look for work, which keeps them in the labor force. And since there was no notable uptick in employment, it's not likely that the majority of them got jobs.


Unemployment benefits last up to 73 weeks, but their duration in each state depends on its jobless rate. Residents in Georgia, Mississippi and South Carolina, for instance, are getting 10 fewer weeks of checks as of January because of the improving rate. Five other states also saw the duration of the benefits shrink in January.

Once they are no longer eligible for benefits, many may stop applying for jobs because they don't see any opportunities, McKenna said. So they are no longer considered unemployed under the Bureau of Labor Statistics criteria, leading to an improvement in the average duration of unemployment.

This phenomenon is one reason to maintain -- or even lengthen -- federal extended benefits, which have been in place since mid-2008, labor advocates said.

One school of thought believes that extended benefits keep the unemployment rate high because they discourage people from accepting offers. But the fact that the long-term unemployed are likely just dropping out of the labor force shows that they still need support, said Dean Baker, co-director of the Center for Economic and Policy Research.

"The benefits are not holding them back from taking jobs," Baker said. "You take away their benefits and now they aren't working. They have to struggle to get by."




Source: AOL

7 Ways To Be A Boring Interview


boring job interview

It's easy to ruin a job interview. If your interviewer's counting her yawns, it doesn't matter how qualified you are for the position -- you've lost the job. So, what mind-numbing mistakes are costing you work? And, more importantly, how can you keep the conversation lively while also coming across as professional?

If you really want to bore your interviewer, go one (or more!) of these routes:

1. Offer a weak introduction.
It's true in dating, and it rings even more true when interviewing for a job: First impressions matter. And they're made quickly.

Your interviewer might be smitten by your good manners and positive energy, or turned off by your listless handshake and quiet "hello." Fair or not, you can win or lose the job within the first few minutes.

So introduce yourself with confidence, be personable and show sincere enthusiasm about working for the company. If you can make your mark quickly, it'll set a good tone for the rest of the interview and you might make a lasting (positive) impression.


2. Fail to treat the interview like a conversation.
Interviewers hate it when the discussion feels like a CIA interrogation. Similarly, their interest will fade fast if you simply rattle off answer after answer like a parrot with a cue card.

Get comfortable and engage your interviewer with some genuine conversation. Don't pry into their personal life, but find a balance between how you'd speak to a friend and how you'd talk to a boss. Of course, you'll need to assess your interviewer. Is she the HR Manager or CEO? Is she chatty or straight-laced? Does she go to football games or opera houses? Adjust your conversation accordingly.


3. Speak without energy.
"Uhhh ... like ... I guess my strength is ... you know ... my ability to ... umm ..." That's how to INDUCE A COMA WITH YOUR WORDS. Your delivery, inflection and tone of voice should reflect your attitude about the job. This doesn't mean you need to talk like a Valley girl on Valium; just don't speak in a monotone voice, use a bunch of fillers or sit in your chair like a statue.

Give careful responses, but also use your voice and body language to show that you're excited about the job and a fun person to work with.


4. Give long-winded answers.
You can't disguise a bad answer by dressing it up with a bunch of irrelevant information. Talking too much is often a sign that you're nervous or digging deep to find something-anything-to say. And while you're shoveling words like dirt into your interviewer's face, she probably mentally checked out minutes ago.

It's okay to pause before you give an answer. But when you do open your mouth, make sure your response stays on point, relates to the job and highlights why you're the ideal candidate.

5. Don't relate your answers back to the job description
Sure, your greatest strength might be your lightning-fast reading skills, but that has nothing to do with the sales job you want. If your answers veer off track during the interview, you'll lose the interviewer's attention and, worse yet, the job.

So focus your responses on what the company needs. What is that, exactly? Just look at the job description, which should be your cheat sheet for all the necessary job duties, skills and qualifications. Once you look it over, jot down how your experience and skills match what the company's looking for.


6. Don't bother doing your research
When was the company founded? How many people work there? What's their mission? What do they even do? If you can't answer these questions beforehand, your interview is sure to be a borefest.

Explore the company's website, read their "About" section and, if possible, check out the store in person beforehand. Scribble some notes, and bring your notepad to the interview.

With this research in hand, you'll come across as professional and well-prepared. In addition, you'll be more ready to ask questions of your own. All of this will lead to a more insightful, smooth and fun conversation.


7. Let yourself blend into the crowd
Maybe you run marathons. Perhaps you're in a band. Maybe you raise blind miniature kittens. Whatever it is, there's something that makes you unique. So if you have a chance to bring up your "something" in a natural way, go for it.

Being remembered as "the person who climbed Everest" will be a good conversation piece and make you stand out. Plus, it shows that you're driven, goal-oriented and interesting. Just make sure you stick out for the right reasons; don't expose yourself in an unflattering way.
 
 
 
 
 

Source: AOL

How To Use Your Friends To Get A Job


Job search: networking friends

If you want a job, and you aren't focusing on tapping into your network to try to win a referral into the company that interests you, it's time to drastically alter your strategy. As employers try to cut hiring costs, decrease turnover and improve new hire time-to-productivity, they are becoming more aggressive about encouraging their employees to recommend people who would be good candidates. A New York Times article reports that employees hired as the result of a referral are 15 percent less likely to quit and that they "perform better, stay longer and are quicker to integrate" on the job. What company wouldn't want to identify this type of candidate?

CareerXRoads, a consulting practice that studies recruiting technology solutions, conducts annual studies about how organizations source and hire employees. They found that nearly half of all companies make at least one hire for every five referrals they get. If you are not putting yourself in positions to be referred, you are missing out on one very key aspect of job search networking.


How can you get referrals and avoid the "resume black hole" that so many job seekers dread? The key is to expand the number of people who understand your background and who like and trust you enough to stake their own reputations on your expertise. Here are some tips to help you convince people to help you in your job search:

Let people know what you do. Don't be obnoxious about it, but especially if you are actively job searching, make a point to talk about your professional expertise with people you know. If you're at a party, it's natural to exchange pleasantries and ask, "So, what do you do?" When you have a chance to respond, don't delve into a diatribe about your job search -- simply mention your expertise matter-of-factly. If the person seems really interested, and especially if you share professional interests, consider steering the conversation to find out if the person may know anyone at some of your target companies. However, recognize, that if you've just met it's unlikely that your new contact will jump at the chance to refer you for a job. Think of the meeting as a steppingstone and make sure to follow up.

Grow your network and keep conversations alive. You can't get referrals before people get to know you. It's your job to put yourself in positions to meet new people and to keep in touch with contacts. Why do people refer candidates for positions? One reason is because they think they are competent and can do the job, but another important reason is because they like the person. When you meet people you like, or you might like to know better, follow up with them. Forward occasional links to articles that they may like and ask to meet for coffee. The more people who know you and like you, the better your chances to land a referral.
 
Demonstrate your expertise via social media. There's no better way to demonstrate what you know to people who don't already know you than via social media tools such as LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Google Plus. Pick your favorite network and share a steady stream of news and information about your field. Be a useful resource for people in your industry. Comment on articles, offer your own insights about key topics and start online conversations with influential people in your field. You may be surprised to find that someone you never met in person will refer you for a job because he is impressed with you online.

Volunteer for opportunities. Be known as someone who is always willing to pitch in. If you are employed, step up to take on challenging projects where you'll have a chance to showcase what you know. If you're between positions, look for places to offer your help. Ideally, you'll land volunteer gigs where you can use your work skills, but if you have a hard time landing the perfect volunteer job, find an organization whose mission you support and find ways to pitch in. You'll grow your network and your potential for job referrals simply by doing what you say you will!

Make seeking opportunities for referrals a priority and you are much more likely to land a job sooner than later.




Source: AOL

The 10 Countries With The Highest Unemployment Rates


10 countries with worse unemployment than the U.S.

America's unemployment rate remains stubbornly high at 7.8 percent, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics, released in December 2012. But that figure represents a vast improvement from the worst of the recession, when the tally stood at 10 percent in October 2009.

But believe it or not, many other countries in the developed world are struggling far more, as the financial crisis was a global one, according to statistics from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. The OECD, which tracks employment rates in 34 industrialized nations, including the U.S., finds many other countries with higher unemployment rates -- with one as high as 21 percent.

Here is the list of the 10 countries with the highest unemployment rate.

1. Spain (21.8 percent)
2. Greece (17.9 percent)
3. Ireland (14.6 percent)
4. Slovak Republic (13.6 percent)
5. Portugal (13.4 percent)
6. Estonia (12.7 percent)
7. Hungary (11.0 percent)
8. Turkey (10.0 percent)
9. Poland (9.8 percent)
10. France (9.3 percent)
 
 
 
 
 
Source: AOL

10 important Twitter career resources

Follow these people and improve your job search:

Recently, a friend of mine returned from a two-year stint overseas, where his access to current technology was limited. He asked, "So, this Twitter thing -- is it a phenomenon?" After thinking about it, I realized that Twitter is beyond that stage. It's officially here to stay, or at least has outlived the possibility of simply being a passing trend.
Although Twitter began in 2006, it gained popularity in the 2008 presidential election and since continued to make news with its important role in political conflicts around the world. Somewhere along the way Twitter went from "What is it?" to "Are you on it?"
For those who don't know what Twitter is, or the stubborn who refuse to participate in peer pressure, Twitter is a microblog service. You write messages that are no more than 140 characters in length and let the world read them, all while you read theirs. If you're familiar with Facebook, it's basically like reading the Newsfeed: an endless series of pithy messages. Really, though, it can be so much more than that if you want it to be.
Why use Twitter during a job hunt?Twitter can be overwhelming when you log on because, if you're following many people, their messages roll down the screen quickly and you can't possibly read every single one. That's also what makes Twitter perfect for a job seeker. Playing online can feel like a waste of time when all you want to do is earn a paycheck, but it can augment your search rather than distract from it.
Think about some of the key elements of a successful job search:
· Find the right company culture for you
· Research the latest news and events for any company you apply to
· Know what's happening in your industry and the job market as a whole
· Understand current technology and trends (depending on your industry)
You can use Twitter to help you achieve each of these goals. With that in mind, we put together a list of people we believe you should follow on Twitter in order to improve your job search.

6 important accounts:@AskAManager (Alison Green)
Green, a former manager, left the corporate world to do her own consulting and started the Ask a Manager blog along the way. On the blog, she answers job seekers and employee questions, dishing out secrets that few non-managers are privy to. With topics like "My friend is applying for my job and I don't want to recommend her," Green is a valuable Twitter friend to have.
@CareerBuilder (CareerBuilder)
Of course we include ourselves, but it's because we keep you up to date with articles and blog posts (written by us and other experts) discussing job search tips, workplace issues and employment trends.
@careerdiva (Eve Tahmincioglu)
Tahmincioglu writes a workplace column for MSNBC.com, maintains her own blog at CareerDiva.net, and even wrote a book . In other words, she's immersed in all things career, and her Twitter updates are proof. One way she also sets herself apart from other career Tweeters is by highlighting workplace issues unique to women in the workforce, which is often an issue largely ignored.
@heatherhuhman (Heather R. Huhman)
Huhman, founder and president of marketing organization Come Recommended, is an expert on hiring issues from an employer and job seeker standpoint. She links to new advice articles on her site and links to other helpful advice she comes across from other sources.
@SelenaDehne (Selena Dehne)
As a book publicist for Jist, a publisher devoted to career topics, Dehne closely follows work news and advice all over the Internet. When one of Jist's writers has an article published or she finds a helpful bit of advice from a blogger, she alerts her followers.
@usnews (U.S. News & World Report)
Longstanding newsmagazine U.S. News & World Report covers events of all sizes, but their Twitter feed does a great job of highlighting their job-related stories. Whether it's an article on salary trends or dishing out tough love on why you're not getting tired, the @usnews account is a job seeker's friend.

Other important people to follow:
Companies you want to work at:Researching the companies you're applying to is an essential way to show employers that you are interested in the organization, not just the job. Follow their Twitter accounts to see what information they're publicizing and to get a feel of their culture.
FriendsNetworking is essential to any job hunt because friends can often refer you to a position, and referrals are usually more valuable to a company than a résumé from a stranger. Twitter, like Facebook and LinkedIn, is an excellent way to keep in touch with friends and to let them know that you're looking for a job. Plus, it's nice to have some Twitter updates sprinkled into your newsfeed that aren't just about finding a job.
Industry expertsIn addition to the career-focused experts listed above, you should seek out experts in the industry you're looking to work in. The leading thinkers in your field will give you insight relevant to your specific job search, and people they follow are probably also worth looking at. Job search advice is good for everybody, but a graphic designer and lawyer can probably benefit most from following people in their respective fields.
News sites of your choice Job searching doesn't happen in a bubble. The economy is affected by more factors than can be counted, and you should know what's going on in order to understand the job market you're searching in. Plus, current events often weave their way into interviews, so you want to be well informed.





Source: careerbuilder