Lots of experience but no degree

 

By CAREER ADVISOR

 

Q: I have computer experience with the military and corporate office. But I don't have a degree. How am I supposed to get hired if I have experience but don't have the degree?

 

A: You have to work harder at finding a job then people that have a degree. It's that simple.

 

I took the liberty of finding your resume on Monster.com. You have some great experience. That's a real positive. As a former Army Recruiter, I am very familiar with how good Military training is. On your resume, I would take out the phrases, "Navy Knowledge Online Course". It's not needed. Are you trying to find a "Help Desk" or "Technical Support" position? If you are, you should be able to find something. Be persistent, keep a positive attitude, and be open to all possibilities.

 

I'm a numbers guy. I love to look at the facts. I also like to do research and I have done some for you by using my Monster.com employer account. In the last 9 months there have been 40 people post their resume on Monster.com that live within 50 miles of you, have a Bachelor's Degree or higher, and have worked as a Help Desk or Technical Support Representative at their last or current job. There have been 114 people post their resume on Monster.com that live within 50 miles of you, who do not have a Bachelor's Degree or higher, and have worked as a Help Desk or Technical Support Representative at their last or current job. So, there are more Help Desk job seekers in your area that do not have a degree then do. That's the facts.

 

Here are some Job openings that I found for you:

Technical Support:

http://career-advisor.jobamatic.com/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-Technical+Support/l-53205/mi-50

Help Desk:

http://career-advisor.jobamatic.com/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-Help+Desk/l-53205/mi-50 

 

Now, for the preaching. You work in an industry that is knowledge intensive. If you want to progress from the Help Desk stage of your career, you're going to have to get a degree (or two). Your competition for those jobs are going to have advanced degrees. There are many India born Technology experts in the U.S. that have advanced degrees that are willing to work for less money then Americans that have less education. I recommend getting a degree from an accredited State University in Computer Science or Information Technology. Stay away from Tech Schools because they limit your options in the future in getting advanced degrees.

I hope I've helped.

Job Hunting at 55

 

By CAREER ADVISOR

 

Q: I recently was let go after 16 months at a law-firm, after two bosses walked out, everybody was unhappy with management. A trainer was made in charge and she fired two of us, one attorney and me.

I feel discriminated against and can do nothing about it. I am 55 but look younger. In this bad market, how do I get hired? what do I say?

 

A: First, I'm sorry that you were let go. It happens. It happens a lot. It's happened to me. Shake it off.

The fact that you are 55 is not as big of a deal as you may think. 20 years ago people were often discriminated against for their age. Today things have changed. You are part of the biggest demographic in the work force (the Baby Boomers). Even though they are reaching retirement they accounted for 15.9% of the workforce in 2004. Also, people are working past 65 now because we are living longer and need to make sure that we have enough money to reach into the 95 year old range.

So, stop worrying about your age. You have experience on your side and at least 10 years left to work. That's allot of time considering that the average American will change jobs 15 times in their life now.

Here is what you say. Focus on what you can offer a new employer. An example would be: 15 years experience as a top para-legal in one of the best law offices in town. Accentuate the positive and forget about all things negative.

Boy, that Law firm was really stupid for letting go of someone with your experience.

I got the Training, now what?

 

By CAREER ADVISOR

 

Q: Have completed extensive technical training in a new area (IT) where I have no prior experience. How do I get my first job? Been told by recruiter that their clients don't pay them to place entry level candidates.

 

A: Your talking to the wrong recruiter. While it is true that many recruiters do not get paid to place entry level candidates, many do.

Focus on the type of job opening that you want and that you can get. Do not focus on negative attitude that you get from recruiters. Focus on what you have to offer your future employer.

Job opportunities in IT for you all depend on what type of technical training that you received. By you saying "extensive technical training" and not academic degree I'm going to assume that you have gotten one or more IT Certifications and/or graduated from a school such as Devry or ITT Tech.

The majority of entry level IT candidates with that type of training usually start off with a "Technical Support", "Help Desk", "PC Technician" or Entry Level System Administration position if your lucky. These are all great entry level positions that will give you the experience and skills to progress in your career. Yes, recruiters do hire entry level candidates for these positions if that is what the hiring manager is looking for. Make sure that you put any project work that you might have had during your technical training on your resume.

I've taken the liberty to do a search for you on some job opportunities that you can apply for. Here are some Help Desk positions: http://career-advisor.jobamatic.com/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-%22Help+Desk%22/l-Mobile%2C+AL/mi-50

Here is a PC Technician Job: http://career-advisor.jobamatic.com/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-%22PC+Technician%22/l-Mobile%2C+AL/mi-50

You might want to contact these people because it looks like they may hire Technical Support:

http://www.linkedin.com/pub/5/246/b97

http://www.linkedin.com/in/angelacosey

Good Luck. Finding a job is the toughest, least paying, and most important job that you'll ever have.

Self employed and searching

 

By CAREER ADVISOR

Q: Hello everyone, I can see I am not alone on this journey of job searching. I would like to ask what everyone feels about my situation. I am presently self employed as an engineering consultant and accounts receivable are killing me, constantly on the phone trying to get payment from clients, but to no avail. So as of last week I decided that I can no longer hang on. I updated my resume and applied for various jobs in four different states. 18 views and no responses later I am starting to become a little concerned. I know the market is not good right now, but I am still seeing a few prospective jobs out there in my field. I am 37 years old with a BS degree in mechanical engineering and 15 years experience. I am wondering if this self employment is leading these prospective employers to scare away worried that I would venture back to my business once the economy got better. This would not be the case if the right opportunity was to arise. Any pointers or help would be appreciated, thanks

 

A: Your Self Employment is not hindering your job search. Self Employment experience is a good thing in the eyes of most employers because it shows that you have drive and determination. You also have to be very hard working to own your own business.

I'm guessing that your problem is communication. Are you clear as to the job opportunity that you want? If there is any doubt in your mind, employers are not going to be sure either.

First, make a list of what you want.

1. List the salary range that you are looking for.

2. List the areas where you want to work. Even if it's a 4 state radius.

3. Do you know any companies that you think would be good to work at?

4. Do you have any former clients that you can network with to find opportunities?

 

Once you have answered these questions. Make sure that everything about your resume reflects these decisions. For instance, if you decided that you want to do design of gaskets, make sure your resume highlights your experience with gaskets and does not highlight anything else.

 

Networking. Every state has listings of registered engineers on state licensing web sites. Just Google: "registered OR licensed" AND engineer AND Your STATE

Once your have found this list, cross reference that names with www.whitepages.com to get phone numbers. Call Registered Mechanical Engineers and tell them that you're networking and would like to send them a copy of your resume in case they hear of an opportunity.

 

Use job aggregate Job Boards to find Jobs. These are boards that pull job postings from all over the Internet using XML feeds. I recommend www.career-advisor.net

Putting in "Mechanical Engineer" into the Search Box brings up: http://career-advisor.jobamatic.com/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-%22mechanical+engineer%22 

You can narrow the search by including your location.

If you want me to answer anymore specific questions, you can reach me at jason@career-advisor.net

P.S. I was a recruiter of Mechanical Engineers for 6 years.

http://www.career-advisor.net

Who to send to and more...

 

By CAREER ADVISOR

 

Q: The ad that I am applying to says to send resumes to their HR department.  However, I do know the director's name that the position will report to.  Should I address the cover letter to HR Director or to the Director in charge of the position since they will be reading it also I assume? 

Also, there is an e-mail address and a mailing address to send the resume to.  The e-mail is the generic HR address.  I know either way gets there, but I am leaning toward snail mail.  Which ways do you prefer to send resumes? 
P.S. It doesn't ask to send a cover letter in the ad, just resume, but I think that is standard to do that...right?

Thanks so much!

 

A: Send it both ways. The rule is to stand out. Show that you want the job and be persistent. Send your resume to the e-mail address given so that no one can say that you didn't follow protocol. Send your resume to the Hiring Manager so that you can show your initiative and establish a personal connection. Say in your cover letter to the HR Director that you have sent your resume to the e-mail address that was given on the job posting, but wanted take the initiative to send it directly to him because you're so interested in the position.

 

Always send a cover letter. Cover Letters are a great way to put personal statements about how you are the most awesome person for the job.  Why would you miss an opportunity to say how great you are? I know I wouldn't.

Interviews that waste gas

 

By CAREER ADVISOR

Q: I am tired of wasting gas, that is almost 4.00 a gallon, going on interviews only to find that the position only pays 9.00 -10.00/hr or the job duties are not what I want to do.  I live 50 miles outside of the city and going on these interviews that turn out to be dead-ends is costing me too much and I am wondering if it is appropriate to ask about the job duties and salary when an employer calls to set up an interview.  I would think that an employer would understand that with the rising cost of gas that people who have to drive a long distance for an interview would not want to waste their time or the time of the interviewer if the position does not pay enough.

 

A: Your question was a surprise to me. As an interviewer, I would think it strange that someone that I called did not ask about the job duties and salary range. While most jobs that I recruit for do not have a set salary, it is perfectly acceptable to ask what the salary range is.

 

I would not go on an interview with out first knowing the salary range is within an acceptable level. Why would you go on an interview without knowing the job duties? How would you know if your experience and education are a good fit for the position? A good recruiter will make sure that your salary requirements are within range before they schedule an in-person interview. It would be a waste of their time if they didn't.

 

You are allowed to ask questions. In fact, if your don't ask questions, many recruiters will think that you're not interested in their opportunity. Take control of the situation if there is any doubt. You'll be respected for asking those questions.

You may not get hired if you're a Smoker

By CAREER ADVISOR

If you don't get hired because you smoke, don't be surprised. The non-hiring of smokers is at this time a state law issue. The Florida Supreme Court and other states have already determined that employers can refuse to hire you because you're a tobacco user. While some smokers have claimed that this is discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the courts have ruled that smokers can not be considered disabled because of their addiction.

Sarasota County government in Florida has banned the hiring of new employees that smoke. Sarasota County stops hiring smokers

This highlights that many Health Care Based companies also are moving towards this policy as way to set an example for their patients. Cleveland Clinic will not hire smokers

Union Pacific Railroad no longer hires smokers in states where it is legal to do so.<!--
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/* 468x15, created 5/24/08 */
google_ad_slot = "9450568856";
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<script type="text/javascript"
src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js">
http://www.uprr.com/newsinfo/releases/human_resources/2005/1208_koop.shtml

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that medical costs for smokers is $75 billion. http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5114a2.htm

Lost and Confused

 

By CAREER ADVISOR

Q: I had been in the mortgage business for 12 years.  As you all know the industry is not doing well.  My company closed in December 2007.  I have been looking for a new position ever since.  My problem is that I have been in one industry for so long, that I do not know what jobs are out there and if my qualifications will benefit another company.  I felt confident after the company closed that I would not have a problem finding new employment.  However, 5 months and numerous interviews later, I am still unemployed.  While in the mortgage industry, I was an Account Executive, Production Manager (in charge of a group of processors) and an Operations Manager (in charge of all the company's loan closing from the processing side).  I have management experience, but I don't really know how to look for a job outside the industry.  What is the best way to locate the positions that I qualify for outside of the industry, when I have sort of had tunnel vision and only thought about the mortgage industry for 12 years?  Please advise. 

 

A: Focus on your Strengths, Versatility and Ability to Contribute to a new organization. Take a few minutes and and ask yourself these questions:

1. What was it about your previous job in the Mortgage Industry did you enjoy? What did you dislike?
2. The most important aspect of finding a new career is to focus on things that you have a passion for. If you have a passion for something it is naturally going to show to employers through your personality in an interview. Does managing people make your feel challenged and excited about your job? Do you like Sales?
3. Is your resume full of Mortgage Industry terms? If you decide that you want a Business management position, focus your experience on general business management accomplishments that you have made. If you decide on Sales, focus you accomplishments on anytime that you were in a sales type role.

You have to be absolutely sure of the type of position that you want before you apply to anything. Once you make that decision, be confident and decisive. Highlight your strengths for that type of position and de-highlight all other experiences.

 

The number one thing that Employers want to know is how your education and experience will let you contribute to their organization and let them win. If you prove this to them, you will get the job.

How to move from Finance to Tech

 

By CAREER ADVISOR

Q: I have worked in finance as a institutional sales person to financial advisor for about 6 years. Now I would like to pursue a career in the technology sector and wanted some advice on what areas might best fit my skill set and what type of additional education is needed. At this moment I am teaching myself C# and in the long run possibly going to be taking the Microsoft Certification exams. Looking for direction? My educational background is in economics from college to graduate school. Thank you.

 

A: One of the biggest Technology Sector's is in the Financial Industry. Don't through away your Financial education and experience, get into Technology within the Financial Industry.

Here are a couple ideas.

1. Try being a Microsoft Dynamics Consultant. Microsoft bought Great Plains (Accounting Software) and rolled into the Microsoft Dynamics CRM package. It would be a real technical job where your economics background will come in handy. Some Dynamics consultants make $100+ / hr on a consulting basis. You could definitely get $100,000/year at a permanent position. Here is the Microsoft Dynamics web site http://www.microsoft.com/dynamics/default.mspx

Here is a link to the Microsoft Dynamics Developer Center: http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/dynamics/default.aspx?mg_id=10174&wt.svl=10175

Here is training information for Microsoft Dynamics GP http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/dynamics/gp/bb676879.aspx

Here is a link that explains how to get certified in Microsoft Dynamics (You'll need that). http://www.microsoft.com/learning/mcp/dynamics/default.mspx

 

2. Oracle E-Business Suite Financials is another software CRM that is in heavy demand. Your economics background would lend well also.

Here is the main Oracle Financials Web Site: http://www.oracle.com/applications/financials/intro.html 

Here is a link that explains how to get certified and get training: http://education.oracle.com/pls/web_prod-plq-dad/db_pages.getpage?page_id=3&p_org_id=1001&lang=US

 

If you want to network with current Microsoft Dynamics consultants here is a query of them on LinkedIN Microsoft Dynamics Consultants. To find out how to contact them, read my previous article at: http://www.career-advisor.net/2008/05/don-use-online-applications.html

 

Here are some Oracle Financials Consultants.

 

There are other things that you could do but I recommend these two because they are in heavy demand and can give you the biggest financial return on your education and experience. Good Luck!

Career Restart

 

By CAREER ADVISOR

Q: I'm looking for some advice for a career jump-start.

I worked as a programmer-analyst in the 80's, before my daughter was born.  Absolutely loved it, and remain in touch with my former manager, who has told me I can STILL use him as a reference.

Due to the company buying a software package and no longer needing any programmers, I was able to stay home with my daughter while she was little.  Then my husband changed careers and we moved around a lot and ultimately his health degenerated to the point that he needed me home.  Thus 19 years have passed since I worked in the industry, and until this past December it had been over 15 years since I worked outside the home (although I gained all my experience on MS-Office and PC's during that time).

A little over a year ago he passed away, and I have been working in temp positions since February at Penn State University.  It has allowed me the opportunity to upgrade all of my MS-Office skills, and I have particularly worked at MS-Access because I love working with databases.

I currently have the wonderful opportunity to create a database to track the grad students for one of the departments here at Penn State, and am working at that (when I don't have other assignments) in my current position.  I look at this as gaining experience and am looking to be able to use them as a reference in the future.

I also have a current (IT) resume uploaded to Monster, Careerbuilder, Dice, and Yahoo; I have the good fortune to have a friend who teaches Business Communications to help me whose specialty is resumes, so I am very happy with my resume (got a joking A+ from her on it).

If I were to pose a question, it would be as to the requirements you see listed on the job boards.  They list so many requirements that it's intimidating!  I have experience in mainframe COBOL and have a book that I'm using to refresh my memory; I've been reading the blogs etc. that you can find on MS-Access and have had a book recommended to me that I'm going to purchase.  My experience was on Unisys equipment, so I have only a very little exposure to JCL, etc., however MS-Access is the 3rd database system with which I have had experience.

Two things, then, I am asking advice on:  1) How to "weigh" the "requirements" posted and apply for the job (am I being too picky?) and 2) one friend has told me to learn Java, but I think I like the whole Access bit better...is it still worth it to learn Java, and what else would work?  I am in my mid-50's and cannot afford to even take a community college course right now as money is extremely tight.  My daughter is going to be a junior in college and I feel her education is the most important thing right now...my financial problems have turned out to be a boon for her education as it's given her more financial aid.  Anything online would work and I DO have access to the Penn State Library.

 

A: I'm impressed with your fortitude in the face of so much misery.  You must be a very strong person.

Answer to your first question: 1) How to "weigh" the "requirements" posted and apply for the job (am I being too picky?). It all depends on the position. While sometimes the requirements may all be "required" from the candidate's experience and training, other times the hiring manager may include "desired" requirements. My advice is, if you think your can do the job, apply. The worst they can say is no, right? 

 

Answer to your second question: 2) one friend has told me to learn Java, but I think I like the whole Access bit better...is it still worth it to learn Java, and what else would work? I always tell people to do what you want to do. If you are doing something that you enjoy you are more likely to be successful in your career. If you want to work with databases, then that's what you should do.

 

Here is a link that has some job opportunities that you may be interested in: http://career-advisor.jobamatic.com/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-Database/l-State+College%2C+PA/mi-50

 

Here is a list people you can network with. http://www.recruitingsearchengine.com-a.googlepages.com/results?cx=012862367242752395963%3Ac16aynelpuu&cof=FORID%3A11&q=%22State+College%22+PA+&sa=Search#1068

To find out how to contact them see my post here: http://www.career-advisor.net/2008/05/don-use-online-applications.html

 

Also, I'm available to help you more if you want me to. You can send me your resume to: jason@career-advisor.net

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Resume Writing Advice

 

By CAREER ADVISOR

Someone asked me if I could help his wife find a new Job. I said sure because I enjoy helping people navigate the quagmire of job hunting.

I gave him some advice on her resume and thought I should share it here in the hopes that it may help someone else.

Here is her resume as I received it with all contact information taken out of course:

 

(NAME AND CONTACT INFORMATION WITHHELD)

I am an experienced professional with extensive sales, marketing, retail, merchandising and procurement knowledge. I have very good team building skills and have always been self motivated in my career. I analyze problems and follow through with effective solutions while providing excellent customer service. I am experienced in meeting deadlines in a fast paced environment while working independently or as part of a team. Experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Publisher.

Operation Strengths

Sales/Marketing Strengths

Focus on cost efficiency and quality of operations

Provide leadership and mentor to other team members

Manage operations

Optimize sales and marketing budgets

Negotiate with clients and vendors

Inspire confidence with clients

Make decisions from a financial perspective

Close sales with perspective clients

Strategic goal setting and planning

Provide excellent sales customer service

Experience

(Company Name withheld)

Buyer/Merchandise Coordinator

January 2002 – Present

Responsible for sales and marketing of (National Retailer) products and services. Also responsible for purchasing of inventory, fixtures and supplies for the initial set up of independent retail stores nationwide. Attend trades shows to view new products and to develop new relationships with vendors while maintaining existing relationships. Identify, pursue, and close sale opportunities for Liberty Opportunities.

• Attend trade shows to develop new business and sales opportunities by networking with other businesses
• Identify sales channels while enhancing market share
• Assess business operations to determine best revenue opportunities
• Problem resolution
• Purchasing
• Develop new supply sources to optimize supply chain for quality, delivery and price
• Coordinate purchasing activities
• Plan and schedule delivery of merchandise and materials
• Resolve invoices, shipper errors and cancellation of orders
• Purchase goods and services to ensure adequate supply of merchandise to support client/customer objectives
• Analyze metrics on pricing trends
• Complete sales orders and bill suppliers and customers
• Provide excellent customer service that brings in referral business
• Excellent oral and written communications skills to work successfully with a broad range of people at all levels

(Company Name withheld)

Health and Nutrition Coordinator

2001

• Coordinated physical and dental exams for infants to preschool aged children
• Updated immunization records for all the children
• Coordinated food and nutrition activities for children and parents

Education

Bachelor of Science, Community Health, "University name"

 

 

HERE WAS MY RESPONSE:

I think her resume is good but there may be some room for improvement.

1. I felt that the summary section at the top had too many "I"'s.

Here is an example of how I might write that section.

Experienced professional with 6 years of extensive sales, marketing, retail, merchandising and procurement knowledge and experience. Have lead sales and marketing for National Retailer. Lead the purchasing of inventory, fixtures and supplies for the initial set up of independent retail stores nationwide. (After this sentence she should put in specific experience as it relates to the individual job she is applying for. Employers expect your to modify your resume for each
position that you're applying for these days so that you can show them how your education and experience will allow you to make a contribution to their company).

2. Her resume bullets under Liberty not only should explain her responsibilities (which they do) but also her accomplishments. Did she win any awards for her work? Was she recognized by the business owners for her outstanding service. Employers want to see this so they can see what she can accomplish for them. It's all about them (the employer) in their minds:)

Hope that helps.

 

What do you think? Do you think that I was on track? Did I miss something? Am I wrong (probably not :) ) ?

No Rehire Policies

 

By CAREER ADVISOR

Q: Some corporations have an arcane policy about not rehiring former employees who have resigned or who were terminated under certain conditions. My former company had this same policy. But I have noticed they did rehire certain people.

When I tried asking the question about rehiring, corporate Human Resources was vague about this policy. My colleagues say "No Rehire Policies" are rare and few companies subscribe to it.

My question to the experts is:

1) Why would a company have a No Rehire Policy? What purpose does it serve to not rehire someone who has the knowledge?

I have yet to hear a valid and logical explanation as to why a company would not rehire someone other than for "pay back".

 

A: "No Rehire Policies" are more widely used for employees that have been let go because they violated the company's workforce policies. Sweeping No Rehire Policies try to overcome the perception of discrimination against former employees.

The most famous court case referencing "No Rehire Policies" is the U.S. Supreme Court’s unanimous decision in 2003, Raytheon Co. v. Hernandez.

This case involves a former employee of Hughes Missile Systems who was terminated for testing positive for Cocaine at work in 1991. Mr. Hernandez applied to a new position 2 years later to be rehired by Hughes, which had since been purchased by Raytheon Co. Hughes refused to rehire the former employee, who then sued under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), claiming he was discriminated against due to his past addictions.

While the court did not rule that this policy is illegal or improper per se, its analysis of the case found that there were enough questions under the ADA to send the case back to the circuit for reconsideration.

Whether a no-rehire policy can be utilized in a “neutral and nondiscriminatory” manner is a subject for argument. However, in light of the ADA and the Raytheon decision, companies have put "Sweeping No Rehire Policies" in place in that hope that they will not be sued.

You're not Soliciting if you shake your Money Maker.

 

By CAREER ADVISOR

Q: If you target specific places to go in person with resume in hand in specific buildings, but let's say that a places you target are in the same building...and you go from 14th floor to 33th floor to 34th floor, etc...to specific places to present yourself and your resume, is that soliciting?  As in a sign on the front door of the high rise office building that says NO SOLICITING? 

If so, how do you avoid that if you want to do a targeted in-person approach, hoping that someone will take note of you?  Things have gotten so bad that it's the only approach left.  And I also know that a lot of what works with me is selling myself, as it's one of my strong points.  Willing to take the chance.  All I have to lose at this point is a person saying,  "no, go away."  I'm not talking about buildings where you have to sign in and specifically state who you're going to see or have an appointment with.  I'm talking about buildings where you walk in and get on an elevator (and yes, there are still some of those).

 

A: I call your resume your "money maker". Shaking it in front of a recruiter or Human Resource Generalist is what you're supposed to do. By definition Soliciting means: "To petition persistently". Yes by definition you are soliciting but it's only a crime if you're doing it to someone that is not interested in you doing it. Most Human Resource Generalists and Recruiters want to meet you if you have an interest in working for their company. It's their job to keep a pipeline of individuals interested in being hired for when a position opens up.

Saying this, you may want to call first to give them a heads up that you will be stopping by to hand off a resume. If for some reason they say that they don't want you to, it would be a waste of your time anyway, right? If they say that would be great! Come on! That's not Soliciting. You have an appointment.

Creation of an Entrepreneurial Nation

 

by: Career Advisor

Vary rarely these days do I read something that is both truly inspiring and right on the mark. Today I read an essay by MICHAEL S. MALONE called "The Next American Frontier".

Michael talks about "Half of all new college graduates now believe that self-employment is more secure than a full-time job." This is dead on. Today's market place makes it important that corporations manipulate their workforce by layoffs, Hiring Freezes, and Hiring in General. The current recession is a good example of how workers that thought that they would be working for the same employer their whole career are wrong. It's reality that corporations worry more about that bottom line then keeping people employed.

How do you combat this? Take control! Make your own future. Create a product. Do consulting work on your own terms. Create a service.

I am writing this from the local Atlanta Bread Company (Love this place). I think that the multitude of people typing on their Laptops are a good sign that we are at the birth of an Entrepreneurial Nation.

To everyone that complains about how there are no more Manufacturing Jobs, would you really rather be working in a factory or at a coffee house? China can have all the factory jobs as far as I'm concerned. Maybe I'll come up with an idea for a new product and have Chinese Factory workers make it for me.

Are recruiters wasting your time?

By: CAREER ADVISOR

Q: In the last 2 years, I lost my position because the companies were acquired by a competitor who let most corporate staff go (from the company they acquired).  I was with 1 company for over 16 years in various positions; the last company I was only with them for 10 months. 

I have been searching for a new position for over 8 months and although I have had a few interviews (some more than once), I have not been the candidate selected.  Went on one interview that the position really fit my qualifications as a healthcare data analyst (analyze data; not systems etc.). Next day, the recruiter told me that the company put the position on hold.  Other companies that I interviewed more than once couldn't even be professional to send a letter stating they selected another candidate. They never returned my call either.  Another employer decided they wanted someone with more customer service skills rather than someone with technical skills. Well, heck, why didn't they think of that before interviewing me three times.

Since unemployment benefits have ceased, I was thinking of temp work.  I have been to three employment agencies.  All put me through their test programs, which I passed above average or expert.  I haven't heard from any of them since leaving their office.  I've even stated I would take a lower salary. I have a resume that was critiqued by an outplacement firm so I know it looks professional and outlines, supposedly, what employers want to see (company, position, years, accomplishments, etc.).  In regards to recruiters, they haven't been much help either.  Well, I saw another position posted by another named staffing agency and sent them my resume.  They sent me an email saying they have temporary positions available and call their office to talk to any of their staff.   I'm debating whether I will or not, because I don't want to go in, fill out another employment application, provide them with references, take their software test, etc. since I have had no luck with former staffing agencies.

Sorry this is long winded.  My question...how has your experience been with employment agencies/recruiters?

 

A: Let's face it. Job hunting is the hardest job that you will ever have. It takes fortitude to sort through the numerous qualified and unqualified (Real and Not Real) job leads.

Unfortunately, staffing agency recruiters have to sort through the qualified and unqualified job leads also. There is a multitude of things that can go wrong in the hiring process. These things include but are not limited too:

1. The hiring manager asking the staffing agency to find someone just to see if they can find the perfect candidate. This means that the Hiring Manager will only hire someone if the recruiter is able to find someone that recruiters call the "Purple Squirrel". The Purple Squirrel is a mythical candidate that meets an unattainable list of job skills. To better understand, check out Dilbert's interpretation. http://www.sourcingcorner.com/2008/03/05/dilberts-purple-squirrel/ 
2. Hiring Managers will also put out job openings to staffing agencies before they get approval from their boss to do it. I have worked on a many job openings where we found out later that the manager didn't have enough money in their budget to pay for the position.

How do you sort through these opportunities? You need to ask qualifying questions to the recruiter about the position. Here are a list of questions to ask the staffing agency recruiter to better get a feel if this job opening is worth your time.

1. Have you (the recruiter) ever placed someone with this hiring manager before? If they have, they will have a better feeling if the manager is actually going to hire someone. The recruiter will also have a better feel for the hiring process that the candidate will go through.
2. How long has this manager had this job opening available? If the position has been open for a long time it means that the manager may just be looking for that unattainable "Purple Squirrel".
3. What will be the hiring process for this position? This means will it be a phone interview or an in-person interview or a team interview? If the recruiter can't answer this he or she has either not qualified (made sure it's real) the job opening or has not worked with this manager before.

I think staffing agency recruiters can play an important role in your job search. Just as real estate agents get you the best deal in house buying, a good recruiter can get you the best job opening.

The only difference is that recruiters are really working for the employer and not you. You have to keep that in mind. The recruiter is not getting paid by you, so will not have your best interests.

Use the recruiter. They may be the door opener that you need to land that perfect job at that perfect company. Ask the qualifying questions so that you don't waste your time.

 

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Getting past a bad job description

 

By: CAREER ADVISOR

Q: This seems to be a rising epidemic among IT job postings.  List everything but the kitchen sink.   Does a person exist outside of this company that can fit the bill?  Is this an IT Infrastructure position or a development position?  You decide.

Systems Analyst

Position Summary:

Responsible for the analysis, design and development of independent projects related to the overall computer information system. These projects involve enterprise-wide multi-platform distributed computer applications and mainframe applications. This position has responsibility for team management on the project.

Essential Functions:

• Responsible for the analysis, design and development of independent projects related to the over all computer information system. These projects involve enterprise-wide multi-platform distributed computer applications and mainframe applications.

• Working with the user community interprets user requests to develop needs analysis, and design specifications to Information Technology standards.

• Demonstrates thorough and complete knowledge of all technical development tools, and backup/recovery techniques.

• Demonstrates a thorough understanding of object oriented programming techniques, network and relational DBMS technologies, and distributed application methodologies

• Demonstrates the ability to develop efficient and quality systems.

• Develops program logic and application code using network/relational DBMS technology conforming to Information Technology standards.

• Perform program and system debugging and testing to ensure accurate and efficient coding.

• Handles scheduling of projects, providing Senior Systems Analyst with time estimates and project updates.

• Provides technical assistance to other associates in the operation of applications, use of the network, Internet, PC systems or other related computer systems.

• Maintains up-to-date knowledge of computer technologies.

• Completes assignments on schedule, working as a responsible team member on application projects.

• Produces complete application documentation meeting the standards set by Information Services.

• May be required to work during emergency conditions.

• Job performance must conform to all <company name> policies and procedures.

• General knowledge of <company name> Environmental Management System policy and procedures.

Physical Requirements, Activities, and Working Conditions

• Ability to operate a personal computer including keyboard and mouse.

• Ability to visually read computer monitor.

• Must be able to remain seated and operate a personal computer for extended periods of time.

• Ability to reach to a height of 5 feet for mounting of tape drives.

• Ability to lift 35 lbs. And maneuver a box of paper into a mainframe printer.

• Ability to type 40 words per minute.

• Ability to receive detailed information through oral communication, written definitions and examples.

• Ability to convey detailed information to co-workers and customers accurately and quickly.

• Regular attendance required.

Additional Duties

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education

• Four year college degree in a computer related field or mathematics, one years experience working as a programmer and six month’s programming experience at <company name>; OR an associate degree in computer science, two years experience as a programmer and six month’s programming experience at CPW.

LOL!!!  This is a real IT job posting.  Where do I start?

You have to have at least one years experience in IT and six months experience working at the company (I guess that disqualifies anyone not working at the company!!!). 

You have to have mainframe experience.  I don't know about you, but I'm 29 years old, graduated with my CS degree in '03 and I've NEVER EVER seen a mainframe.  Would a greenhorn with one years experience know what a mainframe looks like?

Not only do you have to be a programming EXPERT, you have to be a DBA and a Sys Admin as well and know every technology under the sun. 

Is this a joke?  All funny business aside, this is becoming common place for IT and it frustrates "veterans" like myself with years of experience much less the fresh grads who want to get their feet wet in IT. They're faced with unrealistic job posting such as this one and clueless managers and HR people who expect you to know everything in the book.  If you're a developer you have to know networking and sys administration as well as DBA.  If you're a sys admin, you better know some .net and J2EE as well along with being an Oracle and SQL Server 2008 expert as well. 

Who do we blame for this?  Is it HR's complete lack of understanding of IT and it's many specializations?  Or did everyone in the company drop the ball communications wise as to what they really want.  Or is this job description tailored to someone who already has the job and the posting is just a formality? 

Out of curiosity, I applied to the job and I hope I get the interview just to see what this company is all about.  Of course it's local government, so that may explain some of it.  I got burned by bad job postings and made to look like a fool in the interview when it turned out to be completely different (Sys Admin advertised but company really wanted an Oracle DBA). 

This has to stop.

A: My experience will tell me that this job description is a product of a Corporate Job Description Template. These are pesky creations from a mix of Corporate Human Resources and Legal with very little input from I.T.

It's H.R. and Legal's role to make sure that all job candidates are not discriminated against.  They do these templates so that they can make sure that I.T. Hiring managers do not put in or leave out information that can be used in a law suite. 

How do you get around these? Grin and bare it. Apply and see and if you can land an interview. The hiring manager is not going to judge you for their inability to clearly state their need. The manager will take a look at your resume and see if you have the right education and experience to be asked to interview. Remember that the interview is not only a fact finding mission for the interviewer but also the interviewee. 

 

Don't use Online Applications

By: CAREER ADVISOR

Q: How many of you sent in an online application to a company and never heard back from them? Why do companies advertise they are seeking certain candidates and they string them along?

I have been unemployed for three years. I have applied online with at least 70 employers within the last six months. These employers are huge corporations not some Mom and Pop type company. All of the companies I have applied to have not responded to my online applications.

I have attended career fairs with Northrup-Gruman, Raytheon and Boeing for positions that I have expertise in. I am using these companies as examples. None of these companies have the professionalism to at least email me back.

My resume is polished and was created by a professional Human Resource director in the defense industry. Actually, I have five difference resumes because I have experience not only in the defense industry but also in sales, product development, marketing and contracts.

Why don't these companies respond to online applications? I would love to hear from someone who is intimate with online hiring practices.

A: The problem with online applications on the recruiting side is that they can bombard recruiters with 100's of applications a week. Many recruiters do not have the time or skills to sort through the applications, identify matching talent and respond to everyone that applies. It's really a broken system.

I would recommend using sites like LinkedIn to identify recruiters and hiring managers so that you can contact them directly. While recruiters and Hiring Managers are very busy and may be put off by you calling or emailing them directly, they will tend to remember applicants that they talk to rather then someone that just apply's online.

For instance: A search on my LinkedIN gives me a list of 500 People that work on Raytheon. On the second page of results is a recruiter from Raytheon in Boston. http://www.linkedin.com/pub/3/794/700

To get her email address I put in *@raytheon.com into Google. The results of this search tell me that the naming of Raytheon's email scheme is mailto:tFirstName_LastName@raytheon.com. If I plug in the recruiter's name I can email her directly.

If I want to call her. I go to www.raytheon.com I find out that the main number is 781.522.3000. Just call and ask for the recruiter.

It's that simple. You have to stand out.

 

Job search tips learned since the last recession

 

A number of my friends and former colleagues are searching for jobs at the moment (as Prince once sang – it is a Sign of The Times). Reminds me of those dot.com days.  Most of us have been there – sometimes at your own choice and others at the will of your employers. 

Looking for a job is hard work - either beforehand with building and warming your network while you still have a job (i.e. the best way) or pounding the street after you have been shown it.

I have had the kindness of strangers and the wisdom of mentors guide me through more than a few job/career changes. It is mostly their tips I impart today:

• Stay positive. I know that sounds trite and not so easy to do when the fun falls through and the rent comes due, but it is key. Use your support network when you need it (close friends and family) – but don’t be a Mr. Melancholy to people outside your inner circle. You don’t want wear your friends out early in the game (think of this as a marathon…even if you don’t end up running the entire 26.2)

  Some of the best advice I ever received was from an older gentleman who was unemployed for over a year. He said he cancelled his daily newspaper delivery. This was not for budget reasons, but it caused him to get dressed, walk 6 blocks the convenience store everyone morning, and then walk home. Sometimes it is nice to have a reason to shower and put on pants every day.

  The positivity is crucial. A potential employer can smell desperate (and that’s no good at a single bar, blind date or job interview).

• Work your network. Network, Network, Network! It is all about relationships. Don’t keep it a secret. Let people know you are unemployed (again – not in Woe Is Me fashio). Hopefully you have kept your network warm before hand, but if hot, let them know now. But don’t send emails of please hire me or find a job for me.  This is a case where subtle is a distinction.

  Remember the number 1 rule of networking – it is not about you! In fact – take a pay it forward mentality: help someone. Help other people get connected (whether it is job opening you heard about or a cool restaurant she can take her husband to). This isn’t with a strings attached kind of vibe. Do a good deed – and the karma wheel will help you in the future.

• Never read the want ads alone. Let people know what you are looking for so if they see an opening (maybe they are not looking, or it is not a fit for them), they will pass it on to you. I always find 2-3 jobs for friends when I am looking for one.

• Don’t just hang around unemployed people. I am a HUGE fan of job support groups (who really helped me in the past), but remember you need to meet people in the employed universe. So don’t get obsessed with these groups (which mostly have unemployed folks). Find 1-2 that fit your need and personality (l don’t like the ones where people hug) – and then spend the rest of your time pounding your network and meeting people that have jobs.

• Resumes (not Resume). Don’t tell me you only have 1 resume, and send it for all openings? Please tell me you have a resume for each type of job you apply for, and you tweak it the specific job requisition. If you read a job posting on Monster that says an applicant must do A, B, C –and your resume doesn’t have that have done (or capable of doing) A, B, C – then you have problems (and likely will be screened out of getting an interview).

• Resume Part II - This is not about how you spent your summer vacation. Some resumes seem to be about “this is all the wonderful stuff I have done in my career”. I don’t care (and the hiring manager doesn’t either). Your resume  needs to show me you can solve the problems I have (and better than anyone else). Do I really care if you are proficient on Windows 95? Do I care about your career objective (I still see that resume section in books – that’s not good)?  Tell them how you will help them (it may seem odd…but it’s not about you applies to your resume, too).

• Interview early and often.  Confidence comes from doing.

  Take as many interviews as you can (especially if you are early in your career or have not looked for a job since before Will Smith was Gettin’ Jiggy wit It"). You don’t want to lose out on a job you really want because you’re as nervous as you were in asking Peggy Sue to the Senior Prom.

• Not a time for a sabbatical. Unless you have the very sufficient means, this is not a time to touch your inner self and discover your true meaning of live. Gaps in your employment for good reasons (Grad school, having a baby, or climbing K2 to raise donation for an orphanage in Costa Rica) is usually okay. Most other reasons appear…um lazy. Find your next cubicle – and then find yourself.

http://3minus3.com/?p=10

7 Ways to Find Your Perfect Job

 

By Mindy Charski

Posted May 15, 2008

Of all the questions asked, answered, and fretted about during the dating game between job seeker and employer, applicants often forget one that should be directed at themselves: Is this opportunity a good fit? Figuring that out is less science, more art, says Reesa Staten, director of workplace research for staffing firm Robert Half International. "People need to take that extra step to not just envision what they'll be doing but where they'll be working and who they will be working with every day."

 

Getting a clear picture requires the hefty task of learning as much as you can before and during the interview process about the company culture and the management style of your future boss. Among the mismatches you may discover: The firm is team oriented, but you work better on your own. The company resists innovation, but you have an entrepreneurial spirit. Your boss would employ a hands-off approach, but being closely managed makes you more productive.

1) To help you assess a company's work environment, search the Web to read what other people are saying about the organization in news articles, for instance, or blogs.

2) You should also see what the employer says about itself on its website. Online management bios can be particularly helpful. "If you learn the management of a company is all brand new, what does that tell you about the company?" says Bernadette Kenny, chief career officer of the recruitment firm Adecco Group North America. "That it's probably going to be getting ready for a lot of change. Are you OK with that? Are you a change agent, or do you like things to be very status quo?"

3) Be sure to mine the knowledge of your network, which probably is bigger than you think if you use online networking sites like LinkedIn. "Things like networking are still the most paramount piece of a job search, because that's when you get in and learn about the company and about successful people in the company," says Jay Hargis, managing partner of Talent Insight Group, a human-resources consulting firm.

4) You should also speak with people you'd be working with in the company. Ask them why they like working there, what makes people succeed and fail, and what the culture is like.

5) Simply observing the workplace can yield important clues as well. Hargis suggests taking notice of the following during interview visits: Is the office clean and modern or furnished with old furniture and nothing's been painted in 10 years? Are people walking through the hallways smiling? Were you greeted, or did you walk into an empty lobby? Are there awards on the walls? "Those are good indicators of what the climate's like," he says.

A quick case study: Last fall, when Randy Zimmerman went to interview for a sales position at yellow pages publisher Idearc Media, he saw motivational posters and daily sales results hanging on the walls. He says he took those as signs that the culture was competitive and that the company wanted to keep people excited.

During his interviews, he was particularly interested in learning whether he could be creative in his sales. A former employer that marketed pharmaceutical products limited flexibility by requiring sales representatives to follow strict guidelines. Zimmerman found working at a company with such a regimented structure to be tedious.

When he asked his Idearc interviewers about a sales rep's typical day and what employees needed to do to be successful, he learned that "the culture is such that they want you to make it your own," Zimmerman says. "They strongly encourage creativity when you're in front of the customer and also when you're prospecting." Zimmerman took the advertising consultant position and now works with businesses in and around Dallas and Fort Worth.

But while fitting in with the company is key—here is a Workplace Culture Calculator from OfficeTeam—it is also important to mesh with your direct supervisor. "To me, that relationship has the biggest impact on your job satisfaction," says Staten of Robert Half.

6) Staten encourages job seekers to ask managers pointed questions not only about what it's like to work at the company but also what it's like to work for them. "Your boss's working style should be a fit for your working style," Staten says. Some questions worth asking: What is your ideal employee? How will you evaluate my performance? How do you define success in your employees? How do you like to manage products and people?

7) Ultimately, trust your instincts. "If you're getting a sense you guys don't have a chemistry, that maybe this isn't the right fit for you," Staten says, "I think that says a lot."

http://www.usnews.com/articles/business/careers/2008/05/15/7-ways-to-find-your-perfect-job.html

Declutter Your Career And Make Way for Success

 

By SARAH E. NEEDLEMAN

Originally published February 6, 2007

Just as it can be helpful to clear out closets at home every so often, it's a good idea to declutter your career periodically. By removing the stuff that gets in the way, you can free up time, brain power and energy, enabling you to enjoy work more and improve your performance.

Here are four common types of career clutter and suggestions for removing them.

Distractions. Identify tasks that you can cast off. "Decluttering has everything to do with ensuring that the actions you do on a daily basis are going to help your No. 1 priority," says John McKee, founder and president BusinessSuccessCoach.net, a career-advisory firm in Castle Rock, Colo.

Start by defining your goals, projecting where you want to be in five years, such as in a higher-paying position or at a new company, says Mr. McKee. Make sure to factor in your personal aspirations as well, he adds. Next, set annual objectives for achieving your goal and outline steps for meeting them throughout each year, he says. If tasks you're responsible for don't support your personal objectives, talk with your manager about ways to delegate them or eventually transition out of that role.

When Nancy Rapoport, a former dean of the University of Houston's Law Center, became dean in 2001, she says, she met with students seeking career advice about once a week. After her calendar became too booked up for her to complete her core tasks, she began referring students to campus career services. "They're experts, I'm not," says Ms. Rapoport, who is now on sabbatical.

Conflicts. Avoiding a difficult colleague or project can detract from your at-work effectiveness, says Daniel Markovitz, a corporate-efficiency consultant in Corte Madera, Calif. "It's not going away, and it looks worse and worse," he says.

Put an unpleasant task at the top of you to do list and chop it into smaller pieces, says Mr. Markovitz. "Imagine I gave you a 25-foot salami and said 'Bon appetite!' Then what if I broke it up into little bite-size pieces?" he says. "Suddenly it seems totally manageable."

If you're avoiding a sticky situation, consider the relief you'll get when the issue is resolved, says Mr. Markovitz.

Email overload. A cluttered inbox can give the impression that you have more to do than you actually do, says Debby Stone, president of InterVision Group LLC, a career-coaching and leadership-consulting firm in Alpharetta, Ga.

Emails that don't require an immediate reply can pile up as you respond to more urgent messages. To get them out of the way, send a quick reply to each with a canned message such as: "Thanks for writing. I'll get back to you on this as soon as possible," says Ana Weber, a controller at Binder Metal Products Inc., a Gardena, Calif., manufacturer, who is a part-time career and time-management coach. Then store them in a folder labeled "unread" as a reminder to attend to them later, she says.

One way to reduce the influx of email is to cancel newsletters, listserves and other electronic mailings that aren't a strong match for your career, says Ms. Stone. "Most people get on them because something caught their eye or someone recommended it to them," she says. "In a lot of cases, they find that what they get is not as interesting or relevant as they anticipated."

Chatterboxes. Chit-chat has its place at work, but excessive socializing can be a drain when you're trying to get things done. To politely escape from a colleague who tends to blab, say you have a deadline to meet, and offer to get together at another time, such as during your lunch break, says Ariane Benefit, founder of Neat Living, a coaching and consulting company in Bloomfield, N.J.

Steer clear of colleagues who engage in repetitive griping sessions that can dampen spirits and hinder productivity, says Ms. Benefit, who adds that she knew several at past employers. "Sometimes you have to literally avoid going past their cubicle," she says.

When it's impossible to sidestep these people, counter their complaints, Ms. Benefit says. Otherwise, "they'll latch onto you as a sympathetic listener, and you'll become their punching bag," she says. "If you always state the positive, they'll get tired of coming to you, because they won't get satisfaction."

Write to Sarah E. Needleman at sarah.needleman@wsj.com

http://online.wsj.com/article/C70206NEEDLEMAN.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

Interview

CAREER ADVICE INTERVIEW - Share your experiences!

What is your Name (or Alias if you do not want to be publicized) * What is your title or recent title? * How many years have you been in Information Technology? Can you tell an experience that was critical to reaching your current level? What professional skills (i.e. communication, writing, interviewing, etc...) do you think allowed you to overcome obstacles in your career? Can you share an experience where you overcame an obstacle that was placed in your way during your career and how you overcame it? What was your best source for technical traning during your career? What Technical Skills allowed you to shine above your co-workers? Why? E-mail Address: * Is there anything else that you can share with I.T. Career Seekers? What is your LinkedIn Public Address URL (so that we can publicize your accomplishments) ?. * Required

Career Advisor Interview with...Kevin Sheehan

From: kpsheehan(at)gmail.com
Subject: Career Advisor Interview with... Kevin Sheehan
Sent: 05/16/2008 at 03:33 PM

What is your Name (or Alias if you do not want to be publicized): Kevin Sheehan
What is your title or recent title?: Director of Infrastructure Architecture & Engineering
How many years have you been in Information Technology?: 28
Can you tell an experience that was critical to reaching your current level?: The decision many years ago to leave my 15-year position at AT&T to go into consulting, first at Oracle and now at Unisys was critical to my growth. Consulting just opened so many different opportunities to see the inner workings of diverse companies and their technology challenges. It was a scary move at the time but one that paid off big.
What professional skills (i.e. communication, writing, interviewing, etc...) do you think allowed you to overcome obstacles in your career?: I believe that listening is the most important professional skill to master. To actively listen and truely understand what your business associates are trying to communicate allows you to put things in context, understand the big picture and open others to understanding you.

Can you share an experience where you overcame an obstacle that was placed in your way during your career and how you overcame it?: Over 28 years there have been so many obstacles... I think the main thing is that we often think that the obstacle is external to us; a co-worker or boss we can't see eye-to-eye with, a technical problem that baffles us. If everything you've tried is not working, maybe you are part of the obstacle. Look at yourself to see if perhaps you are not listening well. Be willing to throw out your assumptions and start over - maybe you went down the wrong path and hit a dead end.
What was your best source for technical traning during your career?: Everyone has their preferred learning style; some like classroom training, some read manuals cover-to-cover. I like to learn from experience. I need to install and play with the technology. I then do targeted lookups into manuals to fill in the details. Google is your friend.
What Technical Skills allowed you to shine above your co-workers? Why?: For me it is understanding the complete Oracle technology stack; web, app, database, reporting, SOA, E-Business Suite, Identity Management, Content Management, etc. The fact that it's Oracle is not important. Pick Microsoft, SAP, anything, but learn the entire solution space. This allows you to debug complex problems and move up the ladder to engineering and architecture roles.
Is there anything else that you can share with I.T. Career Seekers?: Tenacity... Probably second in importance to listening. There will be those days when you are down (and getting kicked). Learn from your mistakes, move on, forgive yourself. Remember that if you are not making mistakes you are probably not making progress.
What is your LinkedIn Public Address URL (so that we can publicize your accomplishments) ?.: http://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinpsheehan invite Kevin to your LinkedIn Network at kpsheehan(at)gmail.com

8 Sure-Fire Hires: Degrees that Could Make Your Career Search a Snap

 

Reprinted from http://education.yahoo.net/degrees/articles/featured_8_sure_fire_hires.html

By Chloë Dowley

Do you really want to commit to a 4-year degree? While it can be intimidating to consider investing the time and money required to get a bachelor's degree, choosing the right degree could make it well worth your effort. Information on the following 8 careers is based on current projections by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), whose data indicate that these occupations will experience more growth than any others through 2016. Spend the next four years preparing for one of the following professions, and your job search could be a breeze.

Computer Software Engineer- Interested in math and computers? Embrace the nerd within while you learn to design, develop, test, and evaluate computer software and systems.
Get the Degree: A program in software engineering or computer science can help you learn the networking and programming basics to hold your own in this high-tech career. Happily Ever After: BLS expects a whopping 325,000 new jobs for computer software engineers through 2016. Better still, the 2006 median wages for these IT gurus ranged between $79,780 and $85,370, depending on field of specialization.

Accountant- Tax season may be over, but the demand for number-crunching geniuses in this field should last for years.
Get the Degree: Study accounting or business to prepare for a career as an accountant.
Happily Ever After: Employment of accountants and auditors is expected to grow to the tune of 226,000 new jobs, and median annual earnings in this field were $54,630 in 2006.

Elementary Teacher- Consider the potential perks of a career in teaching: a pet gerbil in your 'office,' mandatory recess every day, and at least twenty children who think you're cool.
Get the Degree: Get your bachelor's degree from an accredited teacher education program, in which you learn how to plan a curriculum and manage a classroom.
Happily Ever After: Between 2006 and 2016, the need for elementary teachers will increase by 209,000. You probably won't get rich as a teacher but the summer vacations may be worth more than a six-figure salary.

Personal Financial Advisor- Learn the ins and outs of tax laws, insurance, and investments to help your clients plan for retirement and finance their children's educations.
Get the Degree: Because this profession requires skills in a range of subject matters, choose from degree programs in accounting, finance, economics, business, mathematics, or law to help prepare you for a job.
Happily Ever After: The BLS expects a need for 72,000 new personal financial advisors through 2016; median earnings were $66,120 in 2006.

Market Research Analyst- Get inside the brains of consumers to help companies market their products using tools such as Internet and telephone surveys.
Get the Degree: Whether you get your degree in business, marketing, or psychology, make sure to follow a well-rounded course of study that includes mathematics, statistics, and economics.
Happily Ever After: Nearly 50,000 new market research analyst positions should become available between 2006 and 2016, with 2006 median annual wages of $58,820.

Computer Systems Analyst- Keeping current with the ever-changing world of information technology, computer systems analysts help businesses and organizations find the right technologies to meet their needs.
Get the Degree: Analysts aspiring to work in the business world should get a degree in management information systems.
Happily Ever After: A growing dependence on eCommerce and Internet technologies is expected to lead to almost 150,000 new jobs for computer systems analysts. Starting offers for graduates in this field were close to $50,000 in 2006.

Securities, Commodities, Financial Services Sales Agents- Watch out Wall Street! A career as a stock broker or investment banker can offer a fast-paced, intense work environment with the potential for financial rewards.
Get the Degree: A degree in finance, economics, business, or accounting provides the best preparation for a job in
this field.
Happily Ever After: Nearly 80,000 new jobs are expected through 2016. Play your cards right and you could be earning six figures within a few years of graduation.

Financial Analyst- Put your math skills to the test in this profession, working for banks, insurance companies, or securities firms to improve their bottom line.
Get the Degree: Choose from a bachelor's degree in finance, business administration, accounting, statistics, or economics to prepare for the rigors of this career.
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Navigating Job-Offer Limbo

 

By Kenneth Bredemeier

Special to washingtonpost.com
Thursday, May 15, 2008; 3:27 PM

When you're mulling what you think may be an offer, but it hasn't quite materialized, you're left in job limbo. Throw in the possibility of other offers and it becomes even more confusing.

But what do you do?

I interviewed with a contractor a couple weeks ago. I had what I thought were some good conversations with the two guys I spoke with and afterward I met with the internal recruiter who contacted me in the first place. She commented on how long my interview was and said how it must have gone well. Anyway, the position is contingent on them winning a contract, which they expect to and were supposed to hear a week ago. Then they would contact me. So yesterday they called, but just to say that the award date was pushed back. Is the fact that I am being kept "in the loop" about the contract a good sign? I figure if they had no interest in hiring me after the interview they would have already told me so. Second, is it okay to just come out and ask the recruiter if I am indeed high on their list? I only ask because I would like to take this position should it become available but there are some other opportunities in the pipeline that I may hear from soon as well. I would hate to miss this opportunity, but also hate to miss others if I am kidding myself with my chances here.

Patricia A. Miller, who heads her own human resources firm in Seven Valleys, Pa., says it is "definitely a favorable sign" that this contractor is keeping the applicant abreast of the status of the pending contract.

At the same time, Miller says the applicant ought to keep in mind that the firm might not get the contract and that then there won't be a job for him. Still, she says he ought to feel free to call the contractor and ask about his standing, voice his continued interest in the job and yet note that he is continuing to look at other options as well.

"That may make them move quicker," she says.

Miller says he can ask reasonable questions about the pending contract, such as how soon the company expects to hear about it and what it thinks are the prospects for winning it.

That information could give the applicant a sense of how long he ought to wait to hear about the contract, or whether he ought to move on to another job if it materializes.

And lastly, Miller says he ought to write thank you notes to the officials who interviewed him at the contractor and specifically note "what skills or attributes he'd bring to the job," to "reinforce" what an important hire he could be.

Kenneth Bredemeier has six years of experience writing about the workplace. On the Job, a column addressing real worker questions about office relationships, corporate policies and workplace law, is written exclusively for washingtonpost.com. To submit a question, e-mail onthejob@washingtonpost.com. We reserve the right to edit submitted questions for length and clarity and cannot guarantee that all questions will be answered.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/15/AR2008051502600.html