Protect Yourself from 5 Common Job Scams

Protect Yourself from 5 Common Job ScamsProtect Yourself from 5 Common Job ScamsWhile so much of it seems like a no-brainer, tough economic times can make it more challenging to protect yourself from common job scams. The most important thing to keep in mind is that something that seems too good to be true- a promise of easy money for not a lot of effort- should be given extra scrutiny and a healthy dose of skepticism.A job seeker searching the Internet for work-at-home opportunities will come across many scams that may steal a persons identity, their money, or trick them into committing criminal activity. Keep up on scam keywords that may be more likely to bring shady results.Be alert and protect yourself from these five common job scams.PhishingScammers using this tactic try to gain access to your personal information with the intent of stealing your identity. Generally posing as a known and trusted company, the possibility of employment is offered pending a pre-employment backgrou nd check.One known example is a fake job offer with Google/Zagat that requires some sort of fee- often a training fee- prior to starting. Its not a real offer and any money sent is going to a scammer.Money MovementThese scams often present themselves in one of two forms. The check cashing scam offers a commission to individuals who will receive a commission for cashing a check through their personal accounts and wiring the remainder of the money to someone usually located outside the United States. Unfortunately, the check ends up being bogus and the individual is faced with cleaning up a financial mess. On the surface, it seems like an easy trap to spot. However, the people who set up these scams are skilled at building relationships and making job seekers comfortable.There is a similar scheme that involves money laundering, with the main difference being that the victim is asked to transfer money in and out of their own account. The money actually exists, but it is likely to have been acquired through illegal channels and puts the victim in a position to have criminal charges brought against them.Package ProcessingAlso known as reshipping, these job seekers are told to receive shipped goods, which are repackaged and shipped to new locations. Typically, the goods have been ordered with stolen credit card numbers. The middleman (you) is subject to arrest for the transport of stolen goods.Assembling ProductsThis scam is often framed as a firm working with companies that need products assembled for the end user. For an enrollment fee, the job seeker is told they will have access to the portfolio of jobs offered by the various businesses, all with different items to assemble and varying pay scales. Be aware of how to spot scams in work-from-home jobs and avoid being a target.Envelope StuffingEarn $500-$2,000 a week Free postage and supplies, no advertising Weve all seen these advertisements for jobs that promise earnings for each envelope stuffed once a small fee is paid. According to the Federal Trade Commissions consumer information on envelope stuffing schemes, its rare that anyone ever gets paid.No matter what the job opportunity is, be sure to complete your due diligence and ask a lot of questions. If anything ever feels off, its best to take the conservative approach and walk away.Readers, what are some other jobs that leave you wondering whether or not theyre common job scams?

6 Useful Tips for Choosing Between 2 Job Offers

6 Useful Tips for Choosing Between 2 Job Offers6 Useful Tips for Choosing Between 2 Job Offers If youre choosing between two jobs, congratulations All of the hard work from your job search has paid off.But once the celebrating is over, you have a real dilemma on your hands. When it comes to deciding between two jobs, how can you make the right choice?To help you make up your mind, here are six tips on comparing job offersso you can pick the one that offers you the most fulfilling future.When youre interviewing for a job , you want to prove youre the best person for the role and that the organization cant live without you. Once you have two job offers on the table, though, its time to consider how these job prospects align with your career goals.Instead of focusing on what you can do for the company, consider what each company can do for you. Go over everything you learned about the job, organization and culture during the interview process.Then, ask yourself the fol lowing questionsIf youre having trouble deciding between two jobs, consider both through the lens of your long-term goals. Consider which position holds the most promise, and choose the one that will get you where you want to go.When choosing between two jobs, an easy question comes to mind Which one pays mora?Of course, salary isnt the only important factor . Personal satisfaction is also paramount. So what happens if the job you dont really want pays a lot mora than the one you do?If this is the case, youll need to weigh whether a higher salary will make up for a job you dont like. Sure, youll have more money to spend outside of work. But if youre bored 40 or more hours per week, a higher salary might not boost your happiness much.My first job decision welches between a financial consulting firm and an online education company, said Augustin Kennady, media relations director for ShipMonk . While it offered less money, the online education company was the right decision at the tim e. It also gave me the skills I needed to succeed in my next position.I strongly recommend that you decide on your job not necessarily for the money, but for how closely the offer aligns with your values, he added.You also might try negotiating for more money. Practice your salary negotiation tactics , and find out if you can increase your earnings or snag better benefits.If one positions pay is so low you wont be able to support yourself, you should probably go with the other one. But if both salaries meet your needs, you might be better off choosing a more fulfilling job.Many hiring managers assess cultural fit during an interview. They want to make sureyoull fit in well with their organization. But cultural fit isnt a one-way street. You also need to decide whether each company is a good fit for you.If youve ever been in a toxic work environment , you know how tiring it can getday after day. Even if youre passionate about the companys mission, youll lose steam in an uncomforta ble workplace. On the flip side, you might develop a passion for a company if its culture makes you feel valued and challenged.When choosing between two jobs, learn more about the culture of each workplace. You might ask your interviewer about it or reach out to current employees. Or you could investigate employee reviews online .Figure out what youre looking for - whether its a culture of collaboration, independence, flexibility or new challenges. Then, opt for the company where youd be the best cultural fit.Have you ever heard that people quit managers, not companies? Your direct manager has a big impact on your experience at work.A bad manager could make you lose motivation or even want to quit, Jerry Maguire-style. But a good manager will motivate you, as well as help you learn and grow.One of my biggest career mistakes so far was to not assess my future managers skills beforehand, said Jssica Carmonaof Guarana Technologies . Making sure you have the right person above you i s important, especially in your early years.Your manager might even serve as a mentor figure, guiding you on your professional development. When choosing between two jobs, learn about your potential new managers.You might ask how they help new hires transition into the role or what promotional tracks are available. Or you could speak to current employees about their experiences with the manager.I make sure to ask the right questions to make sure theyll be a good fit for me just as much as Ill be for them, said Carmona.I make sure I only get placed in companies where Ill be able to grow in a healthy environment, under managers with the right profile for my career moment.If youre wondering how to decide between two jobs, the decision probably isnt clear-cut. Both roles have pros and cons, and neither is obviously superior to the other.One way to cut through the confusion is to list out a typical day in each role. As you make your list, ask yourself these questionsMake a big comparison chart, advised Valerie Streif, senior advisor at Mentat . Having it all written out and in front of you can help you to understand what youd be getting into with each job option.This can also be a way to get more information about each offer, Streif added. If there are pieces that you realize you are missing, you can take the steps to fill in the blanks.Consider all the details of a typical day in the job, and envision yourself going through the motions. If the two jobs are similar in all other respects, your choice could come to a small detail, like a shorter commute or more attractive workplace.Once youve done your research and made your lists, step back and check in with your inner voice. Ask yourselfTrust yourself, said Streif. You know you and your work preferences better than anyone. If friends or family are urging you to go against your gut because one option may seem more prestigious, but you know youd be happier with the alternative, trust yourself. Its you who will ha ve to work there.Sometimes, you have to take a risk and leap into the job that excites you. If youre still figuring out what that is, learn how to find the right career in 10 steps .This article was originally published on Student Loan Hero . It is reprinted with permission.

These 9 books will help you succeed in marketing

These 9 books will help you succeed in absatzwirtschaftThese 9 books will help you succeed in marketingHere are the nine books and one writer and speaker Id recommend to people who work in marketing. I usually prefer the condensed thinking of tweets and articles, but these books stand out for me as I look back on whats changed how I think. They are a mix of the famous, the bold, the profound, and the tactical.Many business books feature one wonderful, simple idea and then are filled with padding to make the spine thick enough to warrant a book price. Many marketing books are too inside-baseball or too ignorant of the context of the wider world. This list offers a nice overview of the changing world in which we do ur roles and some specific knowledge that can help marketers thrive.1. TheMeaning of the 21st Centuryby James MartinIn this 2006 book, James takes a stab at projecting the ideas and themes of the day into the future. Elevenyears later,wed naturally expect him to be wrong. It s what he welches totally right about and what he was wrong about that is most interesting.Of course, predictions made today are often based on more data and evidence, so they are more likely to be correct. But to see his thought process, to see how we can be right and wrong, and to see some of the issues of that moment that still exist today, makes it a fascinating read. This book gives a broad context to much of what we think about or avoid thinking about today - most pressingly the rise of polarization of wealth and views, control, climate, and more.2. Status Anxiety by Alain de BottonAlain is such a wonderful thinker, a joiner of the dots in new and different ways, and a provider of a high altitude glance on the things in life that are too awkward for us to think about or realize that I had to include one of his books on this list. (He does incredible videos on his YouTube channel, too).Status Anxiety is perfect for marketers, as it reflects a new way to think about why we real ly buy things, why we behave the way we do, and what totally strange beings we are.3. One positiv One Equals Three A Masterclass in Creative Thinking by Dave TrottDave is simply a creative genius, and he tells it like it is. Its wonderful to see someone make the complex simple, make readers feel inspired, and make what is daunting to many become approachable. One Plus One Equals Three isa very positive and empowering read. Its funny, too.4. How Brands Grow What Marketers Dont Knowby Byron SharpYes, I know, everyone has read this. Its like the bible for marketers. But trust me - read it again. There is so much nonsense in marketing. We endlessly try to do fancy new things because we can. Its nice to get back to what hasnt changed, what is timelessly proven, and what is the very basics of good marketing.5.The Undercover Economist by Tim HarfordBefore behavioral economics was trendy, this easy-to-read, light but profound book got me thinking about the world of business and marketing i n a totally different way. It bridges the world of economics, anecdotes, marketing, business, and humor. As an industry, we need to think more about people and how to better serve them, and this book frames the discussion wonderfully.6. Re-Imagine geschftliches miteinander Excellence in a Disruptive Ageby Tom PetersLong before we got bored of the word disruption, before people questioned why Kodak didnt see the future coming, or before we realized the chaos that Uber causes, Peters wrote this seminal under-appreciated work. This book, which focuseson how the business climate has changed, is a passionate wake-up call for the business world. Like others here, its old, and, because of this, seems more rooted in the longer-term elements of change, not the fast-changing, gimmicky nature of many business books today.7.The Inevitable Understanding the 12 Technological Forces That Will Shape Our Futureby Kevin KellyThere is probably no better, clearer, more provocative and bold book on the themes that will shapetomorrow.This is a positive book that gives guidance on where business, industry, or life is heading - what to invent, where to work, in what to invest, how to better do our jobs, and how to change for the future.8. Ogilvy on Advertising by David OgilvyWe like to think that everything in advertising has changed. It hasnt. People are people, ideas are everything, and insights are rare and special. We need to engross ourselves not only in what is new, but also in what is old. This book is a relevant today as it was 30 years ago.9. Why We Buy The Science of Shopping by Paco UnderhillMarketers often think we are removed from the dirtiness of what happens at the point of purchase. Wed rather think about ideas or brand values or esoteric smart things. This book gets us thinking about the oddness of people, how weird we all are, and how only by understanding this can we really do our jobs properly. I know brick-and-mortar companies are facing hard times, but the less ons here about human phycology are fascinating and enduring.Bonus Rory SutherlandRory, who is theExecutive Creative Director of OgilvyOne, hasnt written a proper book, which is a shame because hes a remarkable writer, incredible thinker, and simply funny as hell. Well, its not that bad - hes great in article form or speaking at TED events. So heres my final sign-off Google him and read or watch anything thats ever been penned or performed by the guy. Its all marvelous.

4 Signs Your Federal Resume Is Holding You Back

4 Signs Your Federal Resume Is Holding You Back4 Signs Your Federal Resume Is Holding You Back4 Signs Your Federal Resume Is Holding You BackWriting a federal resume is no easy feat. Dont let yours hold you back.For those who have never considered a job in the public sector, federal job openings can appear to be all but invisible. And yet, the government is the nations largest employer.According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are nearly 22 million federal, state, and local government jobs. That number represents a tremendous amount of opportunityAlthough government agencies hire tens of thousands of people every year, getting a job isnt easy candidates must be prepared for a tough race. To make matters even harder, the application process is different from what a private-sector professional might be accustomed to, making many qualified candidates feel as though their experience and value go unnoticed.The good news is that its not you Its about knowing what crafting a federa l resume entails and, of course, executing in a way that will impress employers which isnt easy. Here are four signs that your federal resume could use some extra help.You recycled your private resume for a federal government jobMany applicants dont realize that the rules of building a federal resume are different from whats expected in the private sector. Those who use a conventional private-sector resume for a federal job application have a high chance of getting rejected. But what makes a federal resume different? To start, its longer the two-page maximum rule from the private sector doesnt apply in this public sphere. Candidates should know that resumes of three-to-seven pages arent unusual, with specific length dependent upon the requirements of the application.Similar to the private sector, the federal resume format includes sections for education, professional certifications, professional job history with position details, and more. The education section of a government res ume, however, tends to be longer to accommodate a list of completed classes, credit hours, GPA, awards, and much more. Specifics of past jobs are expected to be similarly detailed.Usually, candidates are caught off-guard by the fact that crafting a government resume requires a moderate-to-high amount of research. You may have to dig through your file boxes to locate old college transcripts, request copies of school records and professional certificates, or email past employers HR departments to confirm a detail or two that you might be unsure of. The bottom line is that a federal resume isnt something that can be pulled together on short notice Plan ahead and allow yourself sufficient time to accumulate and double-check the information you need.RelatedHow to Write a Federal ResumeYou arent getting interviewsApplicants should be prepared for the initial application phase to take several weeks or even months. However, if you arent getting a satisfactory level of interest, your federa l resume may be to blame. Government agencies use specific terminology, so analyze the choice of words in job descriptions and incorporate them into your resume to highlight the alignment between your skills and the position you are interested in.Just as in the private sector, the practice of keyword stuffing is frowned upon. In most cases, federal resumes are reviewed by people (although some agencies, such as NASA, do use artificial-intelligence algorithms to perform an automated scan). Be mindful of using the right language in a way thats organic to a human reader.It is also wise to be selective about the jobs you apply for. Get clear on what you are looking for and choose positions that best align with your skills and qualifications. Hand-picking the openings will also allow you to dedicate time and effort to customize each application, which will improve your odds of being selected for an interview.You arent using a checklistBeyond the conventional spell check, a federal job ap plication requires exceptional attention to detail using the right forms and completing all the right fields is critical. Skipping or misunderstanding a requirement could put you behind someone with similar qualifications who followed the process requirements more diligently. This applies to every piece of your overall application including transcripts, letters of recommendation, writing samples, etc.Many candidates find that a checklist for core elements of the application is a helpful tool to ensure that no detail is overlooked. Consider crafting a cover page for your application file with space for every requirement. Then, use it to track outstanding transcript requests, essays to write, or additional questions to answer.Your situation or career path is uniqueGovernmental agencies can be formulaic and systematic in their approach to filling open positions, and many hiring managers come to the task with ideas of what a perfect candidate should look like. Therefore, professionals w ith an unusual situation or a unique career path must be sensitive and thoughtful in how they present their cases. If you believe that you are a great candidate for a federal job opening but your work or education history isnt conventional, consider working with a professional resume writer who specializes in federal resumes and can get you on track.Dont let your federal resume hold you backWith high competition for federal jobs, candidates should expect longer waits for interview invitations. However, if you are disappointed by the low level of interest in your applications, take a step back to reassess your approach. For some, the solution might include making small changes to their resume for others, it might include more dramatic changes. But it is critical that you present your candidacy in optimal light.Although core professional competencies are certainly important, public-sector job candidates are judged in part based on their ability to follow the application process. You n eed to invest time in researching federal resume requirements and create a checklist to ensure that you comply with each one of those. Its also a good idea to complete all additional requirements (even ones that are listed as optional), like submitting college transcripts, letters of recommendation, or writing samples. Finally, be mindful of application deadlines and get to work on your resume earlyWriting a federal resume is still a challenging task, and in the end, you may be better off leaving it to a professional. When each small detail can make a difference, you cant afford slip-ups. TopResume will pair you with a professional resume writer who knows the ins and outs of the federal resume-writing process.Learn more about our federal resume-writing service so you can submit applications knowing your resume is in tip-top shape.Recommended ReadingWhat You Need to Know About Applying for a Federal Job6 Essential Job-Search Tools for Veterans Looking for Civilian JobsThe Top 10 Resu me Mistakes That Could Cost You the Job

Seven ways to help cultivate a creative workplace

Seven ways to help cultivate a creative workplaceSeven ways to help cultivate a creative workplaceLike anything, if a leader wants to foster creativity in the workplace they have to make it a habit.Creative leaders encourage innovation and avoid putting limits or boundaries on creativity.Follow Ladders on FlipboardFollow Ladders magazines on Flipboard covering Happiness, Productivity, Job Satisfaction, Neuroscience, and moreHere are seven habits of leaders that will help develop a creative workforce.Encourage Field Trips If everyone is always in the office, how can you ever expect employees to be inspired? Theyre looking at the same walls, the same cubicles, and the same artwork. Creativity is born from a spark of inspiration. No one can be inspired if they rarely leave the building. Encourage them to leave for lunch. Have one day a week where they can leave early to go to a museum or cultural event. These kinds of experiences get the creative juices flowing.Give Employees Time to Be Creative Demanding creativity on the spot is unrealistic. How many people think of a brilliant idea on command? Instead, ask your staff to brainstorm on something and come to a meeting with a three ideas to pitch. This requires them to have a measurable goal (three ideas).It also allows them time to ruminate on what to pitch. Theyll have time to eliminate unrealistic or less exciting ideas before the meeting begins.Encourage Active Dialogue on Creative Ideas A good idea can come from anywhere. Discussing creative events, campaigns, ideas or innovations is a great way to get employees thinking about how they can apply some of those ideas to their own work. When talking about interesting things is part of company culture, it breeds a general acceptance and encouragement of creativity.Dont Put Limits on Ideas Limits limit ideas. Limits limit creativity. When you give your team a creative task let them think about ideas without restrictions. This allows the mind to really find interest ing solutions and innovative ideas.Once the idea or ideas are decided upon, they can be adjusted to fit a budget or timeline. Although, sometimes the ideas can be great enough to present to a client that theyll adjust a budget or timeline.Be Genuinely Curious Creative leaders are genuinely curious. They read. They attend cultural events. They find beauty in nature and in art. This quest for knowledge and inspiration is a gateway to help foster creativity. Being genuinely curious about the world allows more opportunities to be creative.Encourage the Wild and Outrageous Creativity doesnt bow down to those who play it safe. The best campaigns, slogans, ideas and innovations have come from an idea that is left of center. A creative leader will encourage their staff to think outside the box, and will never dismiss a wild idea.These wild ideas are often what can change an industry, a company or a product. Being open to something completely out of the ordinary is sometimes the best medicin e for developing creativity.They Arent Rigid with Schedules Allowing your employees to be more flexible with their schedules will not only spark creativity, it will allow them to be more motivated. No one want to feel controlled. Giving flexibility to employees allows them to include more things in their life that make them happy.Eliminating the stress of missing out on these important events (a workout, a kids recital or soccer game, etc) helps to create happier and less stressed employees. This gives them more energy and time to devote to being creative.Lindsay Anvik is a third generation entrepreneur and CEO of See Endless, Inc. She travels the world giving seminars on productivity, leadership, and absatzwirtschaft to everyone from Fortune 500 companies to major museums to mom and pop companies. She develops webinars and education series to help companies grow and develop happier and more motivated workforces. Her company, See Endless, is focused around helping leaders and employ ees tap into their endless potential.You might also enjoyNew neuroscience reveals 4 rituals that will make you happyStrangers know your social class in the first seven words you say, study finds10 lessons from Benjamin Franklins daily schedule that will double your productivityThe worst mistakes you can make in an interview, according to 12 CEOs10 habits of mentally strong people

Ideas, Formulas and Shortcuts for Standard Resume Font

Ideas, Formulas and Shortcuts for voreingestellt Resume Font Yur true experience shouldnt be continued on the second page. Youve probably already seen a dizzying amount of online suggestions for how to compose a resume, and arent sure about the way to make sense of it all. However much or what kind of work experience youve got, theres a resume format that is likely to make your qualifications shine. Possessing a format which makes sense and clearly highlights all the critical details of every experience makes it simple for the reader to locate the vital information that shows your abilities. Standard Resume Font Secrets Bear in mind that employers will be sifting through lots of applications. Professionally, our resumes are often the very first impression a possible employer gets of us. As with other creative resumes, it is not meant for the majority of employers, so you might want to get a traditionally formatted resume on hand to complement it. Ensure your employers see that Resumes have to be in a format accepted by the expert community. Formatting your resume can be quite tough. You will shortly locate the official data about us. Employing a template can lessen the quantity of time youve got to spend formatting your document, which enables you to concentrate on adding content and polishing your resume. Resume templates are made to make formatting easy, so you find yourself with a consistent look thats automatically set. Utilizing a resume template is now an acceptable and smart practice for several factors.Anyway, checking and proofreading are quite necessary which can help you stay away from mistakes. If youre interested in an infographic format, here are a few infographic samples to check out. Standard Resume Font Explained You dont have to be an expert designer to develop a superior small business card. Submitting a cover letter as well as a voreingestellt resume provides the chance to express your nature and additional job-related pa rticulars. A business card is among the most crucial and cost-effective advertising tools a business has. At first, it may appear to be essentially a combination resume template. Based on your career choice or present field, you may include many categories in a standard resume. Furthermore, it was inspired by Scotch Roman designs of the 19th century, so should you need to be noticed, you may want to go with something different. The most typical format is a run of short and precise phrases which do not have to be complete sentences. Choosing which style is going to be decided by the sort of the work and your past working experience. Ok, I Think I Understand Standard Resume Font, Now Tell Me About Standard Resume Font Ombre nails much like ombre hair are a sort of manicure in which a color gradient is made. You ought not risk your job for the interest of an incorrect font choice Chrome nails dont need to be super flashy. Double check to make certain that everything on the last version of the resume is about you. So it has to be an accurate snapshot of exactly why youre the suitable person for the job youre applying for. Simply make a list of all of the details you wish to include on your resume and then fill out an application for your fantasy career. Many people wind up edging past two pages when the details begin to flow. Your master list can help you fill in each individual section, and you may use it when filling out job applications.

How to advance your career

How to advance your career How to advance your careerPosted July 25, 2013, by Jo Messer Do you feel like youve hit a bit of a wall in your career and want to advance but dont know how? Here are some tried and tested tips to get you on your way. Identify your goals Unless you know where you want to go, you wont get there. Its up to you to take ownership of your career, so figure out what you want, then be proactive and go after it. Lets face it no one else is going to do it for you. Make your goals known Managers are not mind readers, so dont assume your boss or anyone else in your organisation knows what your goals are. If you dont make it known they are most likely going to presume you are happy with the status quo. Let your boss know what you are aiming to achieve, ask for his or her support and seek advice on areas for skill development. Know your company Do you really know what your companys goals are strategically, financially and culturally? If you dont know the answer, then you need to find out. What are their core values? What types of people get promoted? Seize opportunities Wishing things will happen isnt enough. Its time to abflug doing Make a list of practical things you can do join an association, do a course, take on a leadership role in a team, present at a conference, go to industry seminars. Remember, it is the small steps along the way that will propel you in the right direction. Network Build relationships with other people in the organisation. It is important to network across all levels of the company so seek out opportunities to meet new people. It all comes down to increasing your visibility and connecting with the decision-makers. Make sure you participate in company gatherings and social events such as team building activities or casual drinks after work. Create a positive image Remember do unto others as you would want done to you. That means be nice, keep a smile on your face and at all times, be friendly and approachable. The more positive you are, the more likeable you are. Avoid entering into negative conversations about others, or the organisation the walls do have ears Establish your presence You want people to see that you are competent and that you have potential. Before you attend meetings, review agenda items and prepare a few questions dont just speak for the sake of it, but be sure to share your ideas when you have value to add. Visibility is the key to advancement and you want to make sure you are the first partie management thinks of when it comes to promotion time. Find a mentor A mentorcan help you to focus and can be a great source of ideas for your professional development and growth. Is there someone in the organisation you could approach to be your mentor? Is there an existing mentor program within the company? Look for people to connect with who have been or are in the position you are aiming for. Remember, nothing worth having comes easy, so your best chance for success is to be proacti ve and take ownership of your career. One of the best ways to advance your career is to expand your skill set. See our range of online coursesto help you upskill. ResourcesMy first resumeCover letter for my first jobCareer Insider StoriesShelley Lask - Body Positive Health & FitnessInterested in becoming a?Human Resources OfficerGeneral ManagerBusiness ManagerAccountantOffice AdministratorPopular Career Searchescareer objective for accountant assistanthow to ace your next interviewpersuasive career change cover letterwhy did you choose this careercareer change CoursesBachelor of Social WorkEnquire Online Enquire OnlineCertificate III in Health AdministrationEnquire Online Enquire OnlineBachelor of Criminal JusticeEnquire Online Enquire OnlineCertificate III in Allied Health AssistanceEnquire Online Enquire OnlineJo MesserRelated ArticlesBrowse moreEntertainment career fact sheetIs show business your calling? Check out our entertainment fact sheet to find outChristmasVolunteeringGive a little why you should volunteer this ChristmasWhats more fashionable than giving a knitted jumper with a snowman on it this Christmas? Giving your time through volunteering Heres how you can get involved.Animal CareEmployment trendsWhats your job outlook? 10 careers that are on the upTheres one question weighing on everyones mind Is my job safe? Weve put together a list of 10 jobs currently projected to grow very strongly over the coming years.

Got a Bad Job Reference Blame Yourself

Got a Bad Job Reference Blame YourselfGot a Bad Job Reference?Got a Bad Job Reference Blame YourselfIn the courtroom, you NEVER ask a witness a question unless you already know the answer. Every lawyer from Atticus Finch to Denny Crane has taught us that. And the same principle holds true for your job references NEVER list anyone as a reference unless you know theyll speak highly of you.I read a newsletter recently that included a question from a woman whod been given a bad reference, and, as a result, did not get the job. She was especially ticked because the hiring manager would not tell zu sich which former employer had badmouthed her (thats a pretty typical policy, BTW.) In the reply, executive coach Joan Lloyd rightly stated that it was the womans own responsibility to figure out who the naysayer was and revise her reference list accordingly. Taking that one step further, I would add that the bad reference was the womans own fault because she obviously failed to check her own re ferences before she gave them out.OK, I confess Ive done the same thing. We probably all have. But we also know the risks you run when you assume that anyone you list as a reference will talk about you in glowing terms.I know it can be awkward to contact an old boss or colleague to ask for a favor. If you really cant face doing it yourself, there are fee-based services that will check your references for you.But there are at least three powerful reasons to just do it yourself1. Its the polite thing to do.Its simply not cool to submit someones personenname and contact information to another party without their knowledge and consent. If theres time, make your request by email to avoid putting the person on the spot which brings me to my next point2. It gives them a chance to say NO.There are all sorts of reasons a person might NOT want to be a reference for you (which may or may not have anything to do with you). When asking someone to be your reference, its important that you give t hem an easy way out. If you just ask point-blank, Can I use you as a reference?, theyll probably feel obliged to say yes, even if they want to say no. To be safe, always include a line such asIf you wouldnt feel comfortable providing a positive reference, please feel free to decline. I know a lot of employers frown on giving out references these days, so I completely understand if you cant do it.That way, they can save face by saying, I wish I could, but its against company policy. The last thing you need is to have someone agree to provide a reference, only to damn you with faint praise.3. It allows you to coach them on what to say.Once you have an enthusiastic yes from your reference, go ahead and let them know what youd like them to share (or not share) with your prospective employers. Youre actually doing them a favor by providing suggestions, since they might find it tough to come up with specific compliments off the cuff. Dont write a script, but give them some ideas by using such statements asIm applying for ___ jobs, so Id appreciate if you could address my ___ qualifications more than my ___ skills.It would be great if you could mention my success on the ___ team. Remember that time we were up against that crazy deadline with no budget?They seem really interested in my ___ background, so if you could mention how thats one of my biggest strengths, it would definitely help my case.I also highly recommend sending a copy of your current resume and cover letter to all your references so they can see exactly what youre saying about yourself. It will help refresh their memories of what you did for them and give them ideas of other nice things to say about you.On a related note, if youre asking your references for an online recommendation on LinkedIn, help them with some reference material, such as this one from JibberJobber.com.On another related note, dont put References Available upon Request on your resume. Of course youll provide references if they ask y ou dont have to waste valuable resume space spelling it out.Bottom line Pre-screening your references is the best way to avoid the surprise stab in the back. When it comes to bad references, theres no cure, only prevention.UPDATE 10/08 Heresa link withsome suggestions for bad-reference damage control Have you had employment references who really helped or hurt your job search efforts?Add your thoughts or questions to the Comments box and well post a reply

Why Youre Unhappy at Work and How to Feel Better - The Muse

Why Yure Unhappy at Work and How to Feel Better - The MuseWhy Youre Unhappy at Work and How to Feel Better Ever notice how nine out of 10 people run cold when the subject turns to how someones job is going. People who hate what they do struggle to respond without anger and contempt. Reporting to a horrible boss or being forced to do boring and mundane work all day, every day, are among the chief complaints. While we can all agree that these are valid issues, I think theres also something to be said for causing your own dissatisfaction at work.Before you X out of this piece and go back to being miserable, hear me out.For years youve been taught that if a job makes you unhappy, you should quit, because its obviously your boss fault or your co-workers or your moms. But, what if you actually have more control over your happiness at work than you think? Id be willing to bet that you know at least one person who is a serial job hopper. He gets a job, finds an issue with said job, and befor e his work email is completely set up, hes already logged onto LinkedIn trying to find a new gig.Yes, there are many valid reasons for wanting to leave a company- no one should be forced to stick it out in a hostile work environment- but, if your main reasons always seem to be centered on the fact that your co-workers just dont get you or that youre bored (again) and not sure how to stay motivated, its time to take a long, hard look at the person in the mirror and be honest about the root cause of your unhappiness you. Its not an easy task to see beyond your dissatisfaction to lay bare the ways in which youre contributing to the madness, but its undoubtedly helpful. Here are three ways you may be sabotaging your own happiness on the job- and, because I want you to be happy, solutions for how to nip these practices in the bud.1. Youre Not Setting the Right GoalsGoals are what motivate us in every area of our lives. Whether you want to lose weight, learn to cook, or get a promotion, t he first step is to get really clear on what you want to accomplish and why. The key here though is that its not enough to just set goals for the sake of doing so. In order to be successful, you have to make sure youre setting the right goals.Just because your colleague wants to become the supervisor of the department or your best friend wants to take on a huge client at her company, it doesnt mean that these need to be your aspirations as well. If youre chasing something you dont genuinely want in the first place, or worse, if you have nothing to work toward at all, its only a matter of time before you lose your motivation and it becomes an exercise in will power and positive self-talk to make it into the office every day. The first question to ask yourself is Where do I want to be in the next one to five years, professionally? If this one doesnt get anything turning in your head, instead ask yourself what makes you feel fulfilled professionally? Once you have that list, you can st art plotting out your path on how youll get from where you are now to a job that hits as many bullets on that list as possible (a.k.a., a five-year plan).2. Youre Not Building Your Following at WorkGrowing your followers isnt something that should be relegated to social media. When I think back to the best work environments Ive been in over the years, its clear they were on teams where I felt untersttzunged- not only by my boss, but also by my colleagues. Having a group of people who encourage you to be your best, who care about your well-being, and who provide a good laugh every now and then goes a long way in making your job satisfying.Many people complain about working in an unfriendly environment, but never stop to think about how theyre contributing to this dynamic. In order to develop a community of allies at work, you need to be likable and a team player. Youve got to show up as someone who is worthy of support and collaboration by also being supportive and collaborative with others. It wont be something that comes without a little bit of work, but anyone can tell you that working around people you actually like (and who like you back) is one of the most crucial aspects of work happiness. Why not volunteer to help your colleague run point on the big project due next month when she asks for any takers? Or challenge yourself to go to lunch with a different co-worker at least once a month to get to know something more than how he signs off on emails.3. Youre Not Being Your Authentic SelfAbove all else, one of the major ways people sabotage their own happiness at work is by not keeping it real with themselves. Any time youre doing, saying, or acting in a way that isnt aligned with the real you, youll naturally feel uncomfortable. The fix may seem easy- just be yourself- but in a lot of cases, its not that simple to carry out.Certain workplaces encourage you to communicate, act, and dress a certain way so that you fit in and avoid rocking the carefully craft ed boat. It can be daunting to think about breaking away from the position quo. And yet, think about what you stand to lose if you dont. Most people who are unhappy at work immediately see their perspectives shift as soon as they start to bring their real selves to the office each day. Theres always a way to infuse who you really are into everything you do at work- whether its by not being afraid to give your honest opinion, standing up for yourself when needed, or even just decorating your desk- without being unprofessional. Think about who you are outside the office and who you are when youre there. Of course you cant always use the same language or dress the same in both places, but who you are- at your core- shouldnt be that different.Work is a fact of life for most people. This is why the goal should be to make it as enjoyable as possible. After all, we spend more time sitting at our desks than we do anywhere else, and it would be disappointing if you spent all that time unhapp y. I know its easier said than done (especially when youre buried under feelings of aggression and resentment), but if you can take a moment to stop complaining and instead consider that it may just be younot your positionthat needs to change, you could be well on your way to liking your job. Photo of man looking frustrated courtesy of Frisco/Getty Images.

Career Advice From the Worlds Most Popular Superheroes

Career Advice From the Worlds Most Popular SuperheroesCareer Advice From the Worlds Most Popular SuperheroesIt seems as if everywhere we turn today theaters, television and even online streaming services are chalk full of super-powered characters. Capes, laser vision, super speed a, d spandex, oh my While you may be tempted to dismiss these glimpses into extraordinary lives of incredible individuals as fantasy best left to the kiddos, we think the genre may have something to offer career minded folks grounded in the real world, as well. What can superheroes teach us about our jobs, careers and mora? As it turns out, quite a bitSuperman The Lifelong IdealistAny discussion of supersized heroes of course should begin with the iconic blue and red caped, broad shouldered man of steel. Superman may have been born on the since destroyed exotic planet of Krypton, but his earthly upbringing was as humble as they get. Maybe it was his own good nature or perhaps the upbringing afforded by Jonat han and Martha Kent in Smallville, U.S.A., but Superman certainly knows how to give back and find happiness in serving those who have the least.Despite lightning fast speed, laser vision, super strength and that whole flight thing, Superman tends to keep things cool in his daily life, preferring the quiet and unassuming alter ego of Clark Kent. Clarks day job as a reporter with the Daily Planet, fighting for justice by exposing corruption, might seem like a bit of a let down considering all the potentially glamorous or lucrative potential gigs his skill set could have landed him.The lesson to be learned from Supermans story is one familiar to those looking for careers in criminal justice, public service or any other field that gives back to those in need. Regardless of your abilities or upbringing, choose a career that calls to your passions and desires. Serving others, even if it doesnt land you in the limelight, can be just as fulfilling as a mansion in the country or your name sp lashed in papers. And hey, who knows, maybe youll end up with your own crystal-like Fortress of Solitude and being handed the keys to the city for all of your good work.Batman Do What Your Love and Never Work a Day in Your LifeWhen everyone lined up and voted in High School for the rolle most likely to do good by others, the uber-wealthy, consummate playboy Bruce Wayne probably wasnt at the top of many lists. With an established bank account, courtesy of his deceased parents and Wayne Enterprises continuing to be managed by business minded CEOs, relaxing on his laurels probably looked okay to young Bruce-ey.Instead of living it up in the lap of luxury, Bruce took that bankroll and a passion for tech and set up shop in the sparse surroundings of an underground cave. With no distractions and a hefty dose of computer software, Bruce Wayne got down to doing what he loved fighting crime as the Batman. Sure he may be a bit broody with methods that border on questionable, but when Jim Gord on needs help to rid Gotham of the newest super villain, everyone knows just who you call.What Bruce Wayne cum Batman teaches us as job seekers is that a passion and calling for your work are bound to make you happier than piles of money. If youre lucky enough to land a job that pays well, dont just sit back on your laurels. Hard work lets Bruce Wayne play hard too, with plenty of cool toys to zoom about Gotham on and never a lack of a date or party to attend. Sure, you may run into a joker or two along the path to fame, fortune, and fulfillment, but what fun would life be if you took the easy route?Spiderman Never Give Up on Your Road to SuccessStarting out in the world straight out of high school can be tough. Add in the death of your beloved uncle and getting a dose of superpowers courtesy of a bite from a radioactive spider and the hurdles to trying to financially support yourself in the big city can seem a bit daunting.Peter Parker aka Spiderman never let any of that stop him i n pursuit of both financial security and honoring the legacy of good ole Uncle Ben while fighting crime and protecting the innocent. From the painstaking process of learning how to use his new found web action, to gearing up with a serious physical training regimen, its going to take some hard work and dedication to meet your long term goals.Speaking of dedication, Peter Parker was rejected numerous times from his pursuits to be a photographer for the Daily Bugle. Through persistence, follow up and innovative thinking, Peter was finally able to use his negotiating skills to snag a long term position snapping pics that would end up on the front page. Bonus points for Peter choosing a job that catered to his newfound ability to get the perfect shot thanks to his ability to scale tall buildings and sling from rooftop to rooftop quickly to the scene of New York Citys breaking news.The Flash Make the Best Out of AdversityWhile the Flash may not be the most well-known of our super hero jo b inspirations, his back story is certainly one from which we could all learn a lesson or two. Already a successful forensic scientist, Barry Gordon may have had just about the worst timing in history being jolted by lightning coincidentally after a lab accident doused his body in an elaborate chemical concoction. The accident could have been deadly, but instead, it graced Barry with super speed, a funktelefon trait but one that was initially difficult to adapt to.Out on the job market, potential career seekers can learn much from the Flashs ability to make lemonade out of a tragic accident. After trial, error, and persistence, mastering the new found skills allowed Barry to not only perform his day job with more speed but also allowed him to expand his role into a crime fighting superhero, replete with cape and cowl. It may not have been immediately obvious how the newly found zoom would benefit the career he was passionate about, but with some trial and error Flash was able to ove rcome his hurdles and turn a negative accident into some seriously positive outcomes.Iron Man A Little Bit of Confidence Goes a Long WayWeve all been at that point in our job hunting adventures when nothing seems to be going your way. How you handle when youre feeling less than awesome can make the difference between getting ahead or staying stagnant. When it comes to superheroes that hold their heads up high, Tony kampfstark aka Iron Man certainly has confidence in spades.While he was a successful businessman before hooking himself up with an internal nuclear reactor to power a super powered suit, Tony Starks fake it until you make it personality, backed up with a healthy dose of dedication and perseverance, skyrocketed him to personal and crime fighting stardom.You may not have Iron Mans bank roll, but approaching the career market with a confident attitude will never serve you wrong. Be sure to stay polite and professional but if you know your stuff in your field, dont be afraid to share your knowledge and experiences. This could make the difference in a close call between candidates, tipping the scale well into your favor.