Everyone Wants a Funny Boss

Survey: Humor Is Key for Good Managers
by Tom Musbach, Yahoo! HotJobs


When you think of the ideal boss, actress Carol Burnett and late-night TV host David Letterman probably don't come to mind. But those two celebrities have a quality that most workers say is essential to being a good boss: a sense of humor.

When asked in a recent poll how important it is for a manager to have a sense of humor, 65% of workers answered "very important," while 32% answered "somewhat important." The survey, conducted by staffing firm Robert Half International, also revealed that most of the workers (87%) rated their managers as having good senses of humor.

Max Messmer, chairman and chief executive of RHI, said the survey underscores that humor can make a boss seem more approachable, but it's not a license to be a clown.

"To be taken seriously, supervisors must balance their desire to keep the mood light with the need to accomplish business objectives, inspire great performance, and maintain professionalism," Messmer said.

Is Your Boss Funny?

You may not know whether your boss has a good sense of humor. "In this case, it's best to let your manager set the tone for humor," says Liz Bywater, president of Bywater Consulting Group, a Philadelphia-area firm focused on organization performance.

"It's OK to 'test drive' using some humor to see how it's received," she adds. "Just do so cautiously at the beginning. Take a mental note of your manager's response and let that be your guide."

"Definitely stay away from sarcasm or any statements that might be offensive or potentially viewed as criticism," advises Debra Mandel, a psychologist and author of "Your Boss Is Not Your Mother." She continues, "Some managers take the workplace too seriously, but it's not an employee's job to loosen them up -- unless of course the employee doesn't mind the view from the unemployment line."

Humoring the Boss

What if you don't think your boss is very funny?

"Humoring a not-so-funny boss is OK," says Bywater. "Think of it as being kind and sensitive to the feelings of another human being. Don't, however, humor a boss who has gone over the line from funny to offensive."

Manage the Punch Lines

For bosses who want to flex their humor muscles more, Bywater suggests the following guidelines:

    * Do not make jokes about anyone's physical appearance.
    * Do not attempt humor that could be construed as sexist or racist, even if it's not intended as such.
    * If you've got a direct report who is particularly sensitive or has no sense of humor, it's best to play it straight.

Having a good sense of humor at work helps everyone, Mandel concludes.

"Both bosses and employees need to stay on track and be productive, but everything doesn't have to be heavyweight," she says. "Sometimes it's good to just have a big belly laugh, especially when things go wrong, and look forward to the next day to get back on track."

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Use Cleverness with Caution in the Interview

by Tom Musbach, Yahoo! HotJobs



Well-meaning job seekers sometimes get too creative when making their cases to potential employers, such as the candidate who said he was "allergic to unemployment."

The contrived allergy and other wacky pitches were revealed by hiring executives in a recent survey by Accountemps, a large staffing service for financial professionals.

Creativity Can Backfire

The group of 150 senior executives offered several other examples of candidates going too far in their attempts to stand out:

    * "One candidate said that we should hire him because he would be a great addition to our softball team."
    * "A candidate sang all her responses to interview questions."
    * "One individual said we had nice benefits, which was good because he going to need to take a lot of leave in the next year."
    * "An applicant once told me she wanted the position because she wanted to get away from dealing with people."

The statements above reflect poor approaches to an interview question that is very common: "Why should I hire you?" Career experts offer several alternatives that can help job candidates respond more successfully.

Break It Down

Richard Phillips, founder of Advantage Career Solutions in Palo Alto, California, suggests a three-step approach that flows from the job description:

   1. Begin your answer by listing the top three to five requirements of the job as you understand them, based on your research and what you've learned in the interview
   2. Summarize how your skills and experience will enable you to make a significant impact in those areas.
   3. Finish by stating your interest in the organization. Keep it short and sweet.

Tailor Your Story

Joe Turner, who wrote "Job Secrets Unlocked!" and runs jobchangesecrets.com, suggests that you prepare your best "story" to answer the question by showing how you will go the "extra mile."

"Here is where you tell that story of exactly how you worked 60-hour weeks, acquired new skills, or whatever it took to distinguish yourself and meet the challenge head-on to successfully make the sale, save the project, rescue a client, or whatever it was," he says.

"If you can monetize (put a dollar value on) the end result, your story will only be that much more dramatic. Since no other candidate can duplicate your own personal story here, you'll make a memorable impression."

Run With Your Ideas

During the process of researching the employer and preparing for the interview, think of what you might do if you had the position, advises Carla-Krystin Andrade, author of "Kick Start Your Job Search."

"Perhaps you have an idea for a new feature for their product or a new process that is relevant to the position," she says. "This is the perfect time to tell them about this idea and show them how you would bring value to the position if they hired you."

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Promotion Denied. What Next?

Move Forward When You Can't Move Up
by Caroline Levchuck, Yahoo! HotJobs


There are few things worse than pursuing a promotion only to be passed over for it. Whatever the reason, it could take you a while to get over the shock or humiliation you're feeling and to adjust to having a new supervisor, if that's the case.

Follow these three steps to help you move on after you didn't get to move up.

1. Be gracious.

New York career coach Deborah Brown-Volkman advises, "Be great! You have to be great and professional when this happens." Even if a much-loathed coworker receives a promotion you'd coveted, extend congratulations to her. Also, offer sincere assurances that you're going to be the same team player you've always been.

Doing your best to support all of your colleagues will only help your professional reputation. A stalwart attitude will deflect any passing pity people may be tempted to feel for you.

2. Get answers.

Brown-Volkman counsels her clients, "When you're trying to find out what happened, first look inward. Many times people know why they didn't get a promotion."

After your emotions have settled, set up a meeting with the powers that be to discover why you didn't win the promotion. Brown-Volkman, author of numerous books including "Coach Yourself to a New Career," says, "People don't like to tell other people the cold hard truth, so you have to give them permission to tell the truth." She suggests assuring your supervisor and colleagues that there won't be any consequences for being honest. "Tell them, 'This is just for me.'"

Bring questions to your meeting so you can learn how to overcome any professional shortcomings or lack of specific skills. Ask for suggestions as to how you can better improve your performance. Request specific situations that made your superiors doubt your ability to handle the new position. Try to get your employers to help subsidize some professional development courses that might improve your performance on the job.

And then, says Brown-Volkman, "Start making changes."

3. Make your move.

After you learn why you didn't get a promotion, you may come to understand that you're not perceived as management material and even the best in-office public relations campaign would be futile. To climb to the next notch, you may need to move on to a new employer.

"If you've given it your best shot and it's going nowhere, it may be that you're just not a fit for that organization," says Brown-Volkman. "Find a place where you do fit."

Employees who have worked for only one company often face a similar predicament. Diversifying your employment experience is a plus, and Brown-Volkman firmly believes that other companies will value your talents.

"People get stuck in failure," she states. "But you didn't fail. It was a learning experience."

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How to Interview After Being Self-Employed

by Joe Turner, for Yahoo! HotJobs


Are you self-employed and attempting to re-enter the workforce as a W-2 employee?

It's not unusual to "leave the nest" of a salaried job and become an independent contractor or grow a new business/career as a self-employed sole-proprietor. But economics, personal needs, or lifestyle changes can force a re-evaluation of that self-employment choice.

If that has happened to you, you'll face this potentially difficult question during an interview: "Why do you want a job after being self-employed?"

Here is how you can address this question.

Stress the Positives

Focus on how you can help benefit your next employer, not on what the job can give you.? We all act out of self-interest, and there's nothing wrong with that. Just be careful to include several clear benefits the employer will gain from your special experience.

You know you will be asked why you want to return to salaried employment. Instead of focusing on what self-employment may NOT have provided you, focus instead on what you've GAINED from the experience. Remember, this is a unique experience that you bring to the table. It sets you apart from most of your competitors. It's how you answer this question that either will create doubt in the mind of the interviewer or instill confidence.

Give Specific Examples

While self-employed, perhaps you had to work more efficiently to complete a project. Maybe you had several crises, and had to rise to the occasion and find creative ways to overcome them. It's probable that you also had to educate yourself in some new specific business areas, which gave you a new perspective about your work. Or, maybe you learned how to achieve more results with fewer resources.

When you do some analyzing, you'll no doubt come up with a list of several positive experiences that you gained during your self-employment. Turn these into employer benefits using them in your favor.

A Case Study

Let's say you've been self-employed as a real estate manager and did some investing on the side for the past several years. You're now in your mid-40s and can no longer make an adequate living doing this on your own. You're also looking for a chance to move into larger real estate management projects so you're now looking for a salaried position.

What to Do?

There's no reason you should describe the negative aspects of your situation. Rather be proactive and describe the many ways you've grown from your self-employment experience. List several examples. Perhaps you've become an expert in real estate tenant/landlord law. Maybe you've acquired additional skills in negotiating vendor contracts with a high return on investment. There are probably a number of other areas where you've done well. Take the time now to develop a list of the knowledge, skills and abilities that you've acquired in self-employment.

Take the Initiative, Talk Bottom Line

Employers are looking for employees who can help them make money or save money. As a self-employed person, no doubt you've learned how to make more money with fewer resources. You, more than most, understand the bigger picture of a profit and loss statement. Perhaps because your salaried competitors get a regular paycheck, they don't often grasp this major economic fact.

You have the opportunity to use your self-employment to your fullest advantage by selling each of your experiences as a valuable benefit that can help your employer strengthen his bottom line. Provide several achievements from your self-employment and attach a dollar value to them if possible.

Now, indicate you're ready to take the next step to bring your special assets as an entrepreneur to your next employer.

As a recruiter, Joe Turner has spent the past 15 years finding and placing top candidates in some of the best jobs of their careers. Known on the Internet as "The Job Search Guy", Joe has also authored 'how-to' books on interviewing and job search. He's been interviewed on several radio talk shows. Discover more insider job search secrets by visiting his site.

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Give Thanks, Get the Job

Recruiter Roundtable Discusses Thank-You Notes
by Yahoo! HotJobs


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

How much do thank-you notes from candidates influence your hiring decisions?

Market Yourself Well

Thank-you notes are a nice gesture, and I would always encourage candidates to follow up with one after an interview. However, as far as influencing a hiring decision, I have yet to see someone being extended an offer because of it. The strongest candidate will get the offer. Every little bit helps in marketing yourself as the best and most enthusiastic person for the role. If you do send a thank-you note, always check for spelling and grammar!
-- Bob Hancock, senior manager of global talent acquisition, Electronic Arts

No Question About It

Sending a thank-you note is a must. When a job candidate sends me a thank-you note, it shows me the person is truly interested in the opportunity. This simple gesture can distinguish one applicant over another. In fact, when considering multiple people for an open position, I typically recall who has and hasn't sent a thank-you note.

The thank-you note is valuable for job seekers beyond demonstrating their interest in a position. This also is an opportunity to re-emphasize the skills and expertise they would bring to the role and address any outstanding concerns they may have from the interview.

The best strategy is to send a quick e-mail shortly after the interview followed by a handwritten note. Whether you choose to send a thank-you via e-mail or in writing, the key is to send one!
-- DeLynn Senna, executive director of North American permanent placement services, Robert Half International

A Good Way to Stand Out

While my hiring managers or I would not make a hiring decision based solely on a thank you note, a short and well-written note from a candidate following an interview will certainly not hurt their chances. As most candidates don't follow up this way, you will automatically stand out if you do, and this can set you apart from the crowd in a positive way.

For example, a tasteful hand-written card sent to your interviewer is thoughtful, and will probably end up on their desk or bulletin board for awhile, further reminding them of you when they see it. An alternative is to send an email note, which may appear more professional, will arrive more quickly, and has the advantage of being able to be forwarded on to other interested parties within the company.
-- Suzanne McFadden, senior technical staffing consultant, Wells Fargo

Boost Your Impact Easily

According to surveys, about 85 percent of executives say that a post interview thank-you note has some influence on the hiring decision. While only half of candidates send thank-you notes, it seems to be an easy gesture everyone should use to greatly impact the hiring process. Surveys also suggest that hiring managers are divided in terms of preference for receiving thank-you notes by email or letter. It is therefore up to you to decide which method best fits the culture of the organization.
-- Yves Lermusi, CEO of Checkster

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Move Up Without Moving On

by Caroline Levchuck, Yahoo! HotJobs


Sometimes you have to leave your current job to ascend the corporate ladder -- but not always. Especially if you try a creative approach.

"You don't have to change your job to achieve your career goals," according to Cynthia McCauley, author of "Developmental Assignments: Creating Learning Experiences Without Changing Jobs." McCauley says, "Taking on new assignments in your current job or outside your job can expand your leadership knowledge and skills -- and your marketability."

The Center for Creative Leadership's McCauley believes you should look for developmental assignments, which she describes as "roles and activities that provide opportunities for you to stretch and grow as a leader," to advance. Use her three tips to identify developmental assignments in your personal and professional lives that will help you get ahead.

1. Add new dimensions to your current position.

Think outside your formal job description when seeking out new challenges. The first place to start may be helping your coworkers jettison unpleasant tasks from their plates.

"Consider moving a responsibility from someone else's plate to your own, trading tasks with another, or taking on a role or task that needs to be done but that no one currently 'owns,'" McCauley says. "In this way, you can expand your repertoire of skills and responsibilities while also helping out your colleagues."

2. Use short-term assignments to fuel long-term growth.

The best way to ensure that you follow through on new tasks and responsibilities and vary your experiences is with short-term or temporary projects. One-offs allow you to learn while also giving you the freedom to pursue other opportunities as soon as each assignment is completed. This strategy will give you a more immediate sense of accomplishment. You'll learn whether or not you enjoy the work as well as improve your professional record for seeing things to fruition.

3. Pursue opportunities outside the office.

Sometimes you have to think outside the box -- and the office. "You'll find plenty of leadership responsibilities in nonprofit, religious, social and professional organizations, schools, sport teams, and family life," McCauley explains.

In other words, opportunity is probably knocking at your door right this moment. You may find that stepping up outside the office is easier, as there is less competition. Also, your efforts will be visibly appreciated, particularly if you're leading in a volunteer or nonprofit capacity.

Continue to actively look for places to expand your skill set on and off the clock. McCauley adds, "Challenging, real-life experiences are rich sources of growth and learning, but you don't have to wait for opportunities to present themselves."

Job Info , Career Sources , Employment

Move Up Without Moving On

by Caroline Levchuck, Yahoo! HotJobs


Sometimes you have to leave your current job to ascend the corporate ladder -- but not always. Especially if you try a creative approach.

"You don't have to change your job to achieve your career goals," according to Cynthia McCauley, author of "Developmental Assignments: Creating Learning Experiences Without Changing Jobs." McCauley says, "Taking on new assignments in your current job or outside your job can expand your leadership knowledge and skills -- and your marketability."

The Center for Creative Leadership's McCauley believes you should look for developmental assignments, which she describes as "roles and activities that provide opportunities for you to stretch and grow as a leader," to advance. Use her three tips to identify developmental assignments in your personal and professional lives that will help you get ahead.

1. Add new dimensions to your current position.

Think outside your formal job description when seeking out new challenges. The first place to start may be helping your coworkers jettison unpleasant tasks from their plates.

"Consider moving a responsibility from someone else's plate to your own, trading tasks with another, or taking on a role or task that needs to be done but that no one currently 'owns,'" McCauley says. "In this way, you can expand your repertoire of skills and responsibilities while also helping out your colleagues."

2. Use short-term assignments to fuel long-term growth.

The best way to ensure that you follow through on new tasks and responsibilities and vary your experiences is with short-term or temporary projects. One-offs allow you to learn while also giving you the freedom to pursue other opportunities as soon as each assignment is completed. This strategy will give you a more immediate sense of accomplishment. You'll learn whether or not you enjoy the work as well as improve your professional record for seeing things to fruition.

3. Pursue opportunities outside the office.

Sometimes you have to think outside the box -- and the office. "You'll find plenty of leadership responsibilities in nonprofit, religious, social and professional organizations, schools, sport teams, and family life," McCauley explains.

In other words, opportunity is probably knocking at your door right this moment. You may find that stepping up outside the office is easier, as there is less competition. Also, your efforts will be visibly appreciated, particularly if you're leading in a volunteer or nonprofit capacity.

Continue to actively look for places to expand your skill set on and off the clock. McCauley adds, "Challenging, real-life experiences are rich sources of growth and learning, but you don't have to wait for opportunities to present themselves."

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Bullet-Proof Yourself Against a Layoff

by Caroline Levchuck, Yahoo! HotJobs


It's often easy to spot round of layoffs looming at your company: There's talk of mergers or acquisitions, belts are being tightened, and hiring comes to a standstill. But how can you protect yourself in that situation?

A layoff can catch even the most seasoned professionals off guard. Some of these folks are able to take their job loss in stride. In fact, they may not even miss a beat. Why? Because they've bullet-proofed their professional lives. You can, too, with these four elements.

1. An up-to-the-minute resume.

The moment you're laid off, you're going to be chasing down new job leads, each of which will require you to furnish a resume. Your resume must be completely current and immediately available in several formats at all times. The morning after a layoff is no time to start figuring out how to paraphrase everything you've accomplished in your former job. You may be reeling with emotion (or even a bit hungover, if you drowned your sorrows in a beer or three) and unable to think clearly.

Remember, too, if you're laid off with a bunch of other folks from your company, you may be competing with them for each and every lead. In this case, the early bird will likely get the interview. Update your resume every month to make sure you're armed and ready for anything.

2. Six months of living expenses (above and beyond your savings).

If you're laid off, you'll probably be eligible for unemployment insurance. However, even the maximum unemployment benefits may pale in comparison to your regular salary and could jeopardize your finances and your entire life.

Rather than panicking and accepting the first offer that comes your way, a small nest egg will allow you to make decisions based on what is best for your career in the long term rather than what's right for your wallet in the short term.

3. An active network.

If you've let your network languish, most folks in it won't have too much sympathy when you look to cry on their shoulders and exploit their industry contacts. However, if you've been a good networker and an even better professional friend, the troops will be more likely to rally around you in your time of need, even making calls on your behalf and putting their reputation on the line to recommend you. Work your network every week, making sure you're helping others so that they'll be there to help you in a pinch.

4. A backup plan.

Even the most stellar resume, supportive network, and neat nest egg may not be enough for you to land a prime position in a timely manner. Having an alternate means of generating income in tough times will stave off feelings of financial and professional panic. Perhaps you have a much-coveted skill, such as accounting, child-care, welding, plumbing, or programming that will help you land temporary positions to tide you over and help you feel productive. Seeking out these opportunities on a part-time basis may also allow you the time to continue to pursue your chosen profession.

Also, consider that if you cannot get the precise position you had, you may still get a position related to your former job. Keep your mind open to keep your options open.

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Five Ways to Stay Focused Through the Holidays

Job Distractions Could Cost You a Bonus
by Roberta Chinsky Matuson, for Yahoo! HotJobs


On the third Thursday of every November, many employees unofficially begin their holiday hiatus, and it's hard for many of us to resist workday dashes to the mall. However, year-end holiday bonuses are right around the corner, and they are based on a full year of company earnings. Why risk a year's worth of performance and bonus pay for a few days of holiday mania?

Follow the five tips below for keeping your focus on the job during the holidays.

Plan for Down Time

You know it's going to happen, so why not plan for it? It's not uncommon for companies to restrict the number of employees eligible to take vacation at the same time. If you are one of those people who celebrate the holidays in a big way, then sign up for time off during the holidays as soon as the vacation schedule hits your desk.

Suggest a New Employee Benefit

Employers are constantly looking for ways to improve their benefit packages without spending a lot of money. Suggest to your employer that they offer all employees one two-hour lunch during the holiday season. If you need to, remind them most employees are taking the time anyway. This new benefit will be well received by employees and will allow the company to cut down on unexpected absences or tardiness.

Resist Taking on New Projects

By the time the end of the year rolls around, most people are giving all they have just to finish what's already on their plate. Adding a new project to an already full plate can easily send you over the edge. Hold off on starting new initiatives until after the first of the year. You will return from your hiatus refreshed and ready to go.

Don't Skip the Gym

Seasonal stress comes with the territory. Customers expect deadlines to be met, even when they are out of the office preparing for the holidays. You can kick back a bit, but this is not the time to go into slow motion. Maintaining your regular workout routine can help keep your energy level up and your weight gain down.

Shift Outside Commitments

Is your December calendar filled with social events while your January calendar remains empty? Are you spending hours in traffic trying to keep all of your social commitments? How about a new tradition? Shift a few gatherings to January and February so you can avoid constantly leaving work early during the end-of-year crunch.

Now that you know how to stay on task during the holidays you can relax knowing that you've done all you can to preserve your performance and year-end bonus!

Copyright 2007 Human Resource Solutions. All rights reserved.

Roberta Chinsky Matuson is the president of Human Resource Solutions (yourhrexperts.com) and has been helping companies align their people assets with their business goals. She is considered an expert in generational workforce issues. You can reach her at Roberta@yourhrexperts.com.

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'Green Collar' Jobs Are Poised for Growth

by Larry Buhl, for Yahoo! HotJobs

For career changers thinking about growth and advancement potential, forget the blue-collar and white-collar categories: Green is the way to go.

A bull market has begun to develop in green careers and opportunities for job seekers and career changers. Careers promoting environmental responsibility that are now considered cutting edge will become mainstream within a decade, according to Bracken Hendricks, a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress.

"The growth in green careers will be like the Internet boom, which not only created new jobs, but also significantly impacted the overall economy," he says.

Wide Range of New Jobs

A recent study by the Cleantech Network, a venture capital firm for green business, showed that up to half a million new jobs in ecologically responsible trades will blossom in the next three years alone. And jobs will pop up at every income level, from chief sustainability officer to "green" maintenance supervisor. A few job titles poised for growth include:

* green product designer -- designs products that use less energy and raw materials to produce and consume less energy and resources to use.

* energy rating auditor -- performs a comprehensive analysis of a building's energy efficiency. An energy retrofitter can use an auditor's recommendations to create more efficient home heating and cooling systems for existing buildings.

* environmental manager -- coordinates management of organization's environmental performance to protect and conserve natural resources.

* biological systems engineer -- designs, manages, and develops systems and equipment that produce, package, process, and distribute the world's food and fiber supplies.

* permaculture specialist -- analyzes land use and community building to create a harmonious blend of buildings, microclimate, plants, animals, soils, and water.

* urban arborist -- a landscaper or greenskeeper with an understanding of conservation and renewable resources.

In addition, professionals will find opportunities by adding green to their skill sets, from accountants who can manage corporate carbon emission offsets, to zookeepers who must maintain environmentally sensitive and ecologically friendly animal habitats.

More Growth on the Horizon

Part of the growth in green collar jobs will come from government initiatives: The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed the Green Jobs Act of 2007 that would provide $125 million annually to train people for green vocational fields that offer living wages and upward mobility for low-income communities.

In the private sector, Bank of America launched a $20 billion initiative to support environmentally sustainable business activity to address global climate change, and Citigroup plans to commit $50 billion to environmental projects over the next decade.

With that kind of rapid growth, supply and demand is likely to be unbalanced for a while. "If you look at jobs in solar, wind and renewable energy management, there are very few people with the right training and this could lead to a serious labor shortage," said Rona Fried, president of sustainablebusiness.com, a news and networking service for growing sustainable businesses.

Get in on the Action

For anyone considering a green collar-career path, consider:

* Can your current job be 'greened'? An employer who values you may be willing to train you to include skills to meet the goals of the company's green initiatives.

* Can you go back to school? An increasing number of colleges are offering environmental studies programs and green MBAs.

* Do you already have the skills? Start on eco job boards, and check out sustainablebusiness.com, ecojobs.com, greenbiz.com, and treehugger.com.

As in traditional careers, personal connections help in finding a green-collar job. Volunteering for an eco-friendly organization could help build those connections while doing some good for the planet.

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Remedies for Boredom on the Job

by Caroline Levchuck, Yahoo! HotJobs


Even if you love your job, you can still get bored by the daily routine of office life. Use these four feel-good strategies to spice things up around your workplace and get to know your colleagues on a whole different level.

1. Start a Get-Fit Group

The holidays are almost here, and with them comes temptation, shorter days, and thinner wallets. Why not try to boost spirits while you trim your waistline with a workplace weight-loss support group?

Programs such as Weight Watchers and Body for Life are low-cost and work well with groups. Weight Watchers offers a special "At Work" plan in which a leader will come to your workplace to direct weekly meetings. According to Weight Watchers, more than 10,000 U.S. companies have hosted "At Work" meetings.

Body for Life (bodyforlife.com) offers a free fitness and eating plan as well as online support. Additionally, there is an annual contest that has a group category. Firefighters, gym teachers, and members of U.S. Armed Forces have all participated , lost weight, and found a new level of fitness and camaraderie in the workplace.

2. Sponsor a Charity or a Charitable Cause

When you're shooting the breeze with colleagues in the lunchroom, what is it that you're all passionate about (beyond work issues)? Education? Hunger? The environment? Animal protection? The arts?

Investigate opportunities to apply your passions in a charitable capacity in your community. Sponsor a child who needs school supplies. Help a family celebrate the holidays or purchase their first home. Teach computer skills to workforce returnees. Start a volunteer dog-walking group to lend a hand at your local shelter.

If you're not sure where to start, visit this site for opportunities in your neighborhood.

3. Start an Investment Club

Instead of spending money on expensive lunches, use your lunch hour to make more money through investing.

You and your coworkers will enjoy the benefits of pooled knowledge so you won't be flying blind or making foolish investments on a whim. It's a great way to learn about the stock market while earning some extra cash. And the initial amount of money you can invest may be as little as $20 a month. If your company prohibits an investment club, consider creating a money-free club that will allow you to learn about stocks and follow them without any financial commitment.

4. Start a Book Club

Recruit your coworkers to form an in-office book club. Meetings can be hosted during lunch hours, and joining may give you an opportunity to expand your circle of work friends as well as diversify your reading experiences.

If everyone at your company is motivated to climb the ladder, consider starting a business book club in which you read and discuss books related to the work you do, and how you can apply what you've learned at your company.

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Pushing Past a Career Slump

by Denene Brox, for Yahoo! HotJobs


Are you having trouble getting out of bed in the morning? Are you bored at work and can't wait for the weekends? Has your great "idea well" run dry? These could be signs that have a lack of motivation in your career.

"If you find your career stagnating, it's on you to figure out what will help motivate you," says Kurt Weyerhauser, managing partner with Kensington Stone, an executive search firm. "In today's economy you are really left on your own to drive your career and achieve your aspirations."

While it's important to determine if you've hit a wall because your job isn't interesting and challenging, there are steps you can take to get out of a career slump.

Understand What Motivates You

Exploring the things that truly motivate you will help get your career moving in the right direction. Some people are motivated by job titles and money, while some may be motivated by helping others. If your current job isn't meeting these needs, you'll have a better understanding of which direction to head in next.

Motivation can also come from setting goals. Understanding your goals and how your current job fits into the bigger plan is the key. "Goals move you and your career forward," says Andrea Kay, an author and career counselor in Cincinnati. "They can help you develop as a person."

Challenge Yourself

When defining your goals, make sure you build in your own challenges. "There is no benevolent corporation to manage your career for you," warns Weyerhauser. "You don't have to wait for your company to provide training or a development plan in order to move forward."

One strategy to get you motivated is to get a support system in place that challenges you.

Another strategy is a little friendly competition. "Maybe you can assign yourself a well-known counterpart and measure your career by hers -- not competitively, but if you admire what she's accomplished, you can set guideposts to help you get to that point," says Rachel Weingarten, author of "Career and Corporate Cool."

Keep Your Cool

Weingarten warns that the worst thing you can do is let your boss or colleagues know that you're not on top of your game. So keep your lack of motivation to yourself or vent feelings to safe mentors.

If you find that you can't stir up any motivation you may want to begin a new job hunt, but be careful not to let your current work slide in the meantime.

"The last thing you want to happen is to be fired for lack of performance," says Jan Melnik, president of Absolute Advantage,a professional career management firm in Durham, Connecticut. "It's infinitely better to take control and find the right career and propel yourself in a new, exciting direction."

Finally, don't make any rash decisions or lose your cool. "It's not a good idea to walk off the job or tell someone off," says Kay, as such impulses could tarnish your professional reputation.

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The Right Words: How to Ask for More Money

by Margaret Steen, for Yahoo! HotJobs

Whether you're asking a potential employer for more money or your current boss for a raise, talking about money is awkward, especially when you are searching for the best way to phrase your request.

"Money is very tightly tied to our self-esteem," says Meryl Runion, author of "PowerPhrases." Asking for more money means saying you think you're worth more -- and risking hearing that someone else disagrees. "If somebody tells you, 'No, I don't think you are worth that much,' it's almost like saying you're not that valuable as a person."

A little practice can help you find the right words to make these requests -- and respond to the answer you get. Runion and other experts offer the following tips for two common scenarios.

Scenario 1: Getting a Raise

* Asking your current boss for a raise: The key is to ask in a way that shows you've done your research. Try saying, "I've been evaluating my own performance and what you've told me about my performance, and I would like to talk with you about increasing my salary," suggests Marcia Stein, a human resources consultant who recently published a book about recruiting.

This approach alerts your boss that you have analyzed your contributions and are not simply asking for a raise because you want more money. And by asking for a time to talk, rather than simply stating the raise you want, you give your boss time to prepare.

* If the boss says no: Despite your preparation, it may turn out that your boss isn't able or willing to pay you more. Try to find out the reason -- is there a companywide freeze on raises, or does your boss not agree that you deserve more? Stein suggests showing your interest in improving your performance by saying, "What would you recommend that I do so I can be one of the top performers on your team?"

Scenario 2: Negotiating a Higher Salary

* Negotiating a higher salary with a new employer: If you're offered a job but were hoping for more money, the key is to make the request in a positive way, says Lori Itani, an independent staffing consultant who focuses on high-tech companies and hears candidates' responses to offers. "If they're telling me that they really like the company, they really like the position, the manager and the team, and they'd really like to have this work, that's a good thing to say."

Itani suggests a way to phrase the request: "I'd really like to come on board, but I need some more help with relocation." If your goal is a higher starting salary, finish the sentence with, "but I need a little more in salary to justify the move from my current company to yours."

* If the employer says no: Even when you ask politely, it may turn out that the employer isn't willing to increase the offer. In that case, assuming you still want the job, your goal is to find out the possibilities for future raises -- while emphasizing that you intend to work hard. Runion suggests saying, "If I can prove my value, what are the possibilities for future raises?"

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Five Ways to Make Unemployment Work for You

by Katherine Tom, for Yahoo! HotJobs


Hate your job? Unemployment might not seem like an attractive alternative, but it comes with one major upside: more time. With the right game plan, you can take advantage of a temporary pause between jobs to reevaluate and rejuvenate your entire career.

Dean LaTourette, co-author of "Time Off! The Upside to Downtime," observes, "While it can be a scary time, most people who allow themselves a break find that getting laid off or quitting their job ends up being one of the best career moves they ever made."

1. Work Your Network

Sure, you're browsing the job listings every day and applying to positions as they come up. But imagine if you could multiply your efforts a hundredfold. Today's online networking sites not only make it a breeze to let your friends know you're looking for work, they also give you access to your friends' networks. That's an exponential increase in potential employment connections.

Make sure all of your online info is up-to-date and typo-free, re-activate resumes that you may have hidden when you found your last job, and let your friends and colleagues know that you're actively seeking employment.

2. Get an Internship or Volunteer

If you're considering a complete career change, working for free may be your best bet for gaining experience in your desired field. Well-established volunteer and internship programs often include formal training, which is basically like a free education in your new vocation. If you have technical skills or a consulting background, doing pro bono work can be a great way to build your portfolio while contributing to a good cause.

3. Go Back to School

In addition to traditional graduate schools, there are dozens of options for getting job-relevant training year-round. Most major universities offer extension courses for a variety of professional fields including marketing, graphic design, and computer programming. Media Bistro, another valuable resource, offers writing and media courses both online and in six cities across the U.S.

4. Explore Your Hobbies

Ever spent a spare moment at work wishing you could spend more time fishing, painting, cooking, or whatever your passion is? Well consider your wish granted. Unemployment can be a perfect time to explore your personal passions. At worst, you'll get to enjoy yourself, and at best you may find a way to make money doing what you love.

Michelle Goodman, author of the "Anti 9 to 5 Guide," points out that "even if you're not going for investment money, it's helpful to write down the basics of your business plan: how much it will take to break even, the cost of supplies, analysis of your competitors. Putting it on paper makes it hard to be in denial about finances."

5. Travel

Recently the Center for Economic and Policy Research released a report entitled "No Vacation Nation" which revealed that 1 in 4 American workers receive no paid vacation or holidays. Even those lucky employees who get paid time off receive up to 30 days fewer than their European counterparts. So take advantage of your time off and take a well-deserved vacation. If you sublet your apartment or home and choose a cheap destination, you could even end up saving money while you're away.

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Shopping Online During Work

Most Workers Don't Shop on the Company Dime
by Robert McCauley, Robert Half International

Office workers may be making a list and checking it twice -- but when it comes to purchasing gifts for loved ones, most are doing it on their own time. Only 1 in 5 professionals plans to shop online while at work during the holiday season, according to a recent survey.

Those who admit to the practice spend, on average, less than three hours online throughout the holiday season. The survey was conducted by Accountemps, a staffing service for finance professionals.

Playing by the Rules

While the holidays can place extreme demands on your time, pulling up your favorite shopping site at the office is almost always against company policy. More than ever before, businesses are cautious about the online activities of their employees. In fact, many firms have installed software programs -- or, in some cases, hired workers -- to monitor the email messages and surfing histories of their staff.

One reason companies are so concerned is security. Email attachments and visits to certain web sites can expose an organization's electronic network to worms, viruses and hackers. In addition, the use of company systems to conduct online shopping can significant slow computer performance for users throughout the organization due to the high number of pop-ups, animated ads and graphics that today's websites typically employ.

At a minimum, Internet surfing on the company's time can be embarrassing, especially if your purchases are highly personal in nature.

Tips for Safe Surfing

Here's some advice if you're tempted to surf the Web while at work:

Be aware. You may think that your company does not monitor online activity, especially yours, but the practice is more common than you probably realize. According to ProofPoint Inc., 38 percent of companies with 1,000 or more workers employ staff to read or analyze outgoing email messages. Your firm has the right to monitor any activity conducted using their computers, software or systems, even if you're simply checking your personal email account. Firms in certain industries, such as financial services and healthcare, are even more likely to monitor employee activity due to the confidential nature of their businesses. Some organizations may even be required to monitor employee Internet use to comply with certain regulations.

Know the rules. Most firms have policies in place that define the use of their electronic systems. Make sure you are familiar with your company's rules. If you have questions about your organization's guidelines, ask your manager or human resources representative for clarification.

Don't focus on email only. Your company's right to monitor your activity is not limited to the Internet or email system -- it extends to voice mail, instant messages, and even postings you have made on blogs and online message boards.

Be cautious. Any electronic activity on your part creates a record, whether in a colleague's email inbox, your computer's Internet site history or on a company server. You run a significant risk by shopping, surfing or sending personal e-mails at work if doing so is against your firm's official policy. Even legal action is not out of the question if you unwittingly spread information that can expose your company to legal, financial or regulatory risk. A poll by the American Management Association and the ePolicy Institute indicates that 26 percent of companies have terminated employees because of Internet misuse.

It may be unavoidable to forego all personal surfing or email use while at work, especially during the busy holiday season, but try to limit your activity as much as possible. If your firm allows it, shop at lunch or after work. Better yet, wait until you get home.

Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 350 offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.rhi.com. For additional workplace articles and podcasts, visit workvine.com.

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Should the Boss Be on Your Holiday Gift List?

by Robert McCauley, Robert Half International


According to conventional wisdom, there's no worse time to search for a job than when the year is winding down. But sometimes conventional wisdom isn't entirely accurate.

The truth is that the end of the year may be the best time to find a new job. Here are five reasons:

1. You face less competition. Buying into popular theory, many job seekers halt their quests for employment in November and December, choosing to save their efforts for when the calendar changes. But take a glimpse at the want ads, and you'll see that employers haven't stopped looking for talent. With fewer candidates vying for the same number of positions, you may have an edge over the competition, unlike no other time during the year.

2. More employers are hiring. Many firms, especially retail companies, increase their hiring efforts in winter to meet rising demand for their products and services. Even though seasonal jobs are often temporary, many hiring managers view these positions as extended, on-the-job interviews and offer full-time employment to promising hires.

3. Companies have budget surpluses. Some employers hire new workers at the end of the year because they have not yet used all of the funds they set aside earlier for adding new personnel. If the hiring managers don't increase headcount during the final two months, they may lose that portion of their budgets and be unable to bring aboard new employees at all.

4. It may be easier to secure an interview. Things often slow down at the end of the year due to vacations and the winter holidays. As a result, hiring managers may be less busy than usual and have more time to review your resume or call you in for an employment interview.

5. You'll get a jump on things. Even if some firms wait until the beginning of the year to add headcount, that doesn't mean they've stopped collecting resumes and considering candidates. By submitting your application materials now, you'll be first in line when the hiring process gets in full swing again.

As 2007 comes to a close, remember that employers are always on the lookout for strong professionals, especially in fields such as accounting and finance and information technology, where skilled workers are in short supply. That means there's no wrong time to look for your next job, no matter what conventional wisdom says.

Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 350 offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.rhi.com.

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Anything Goes When You're Interviewing Abroad

What to Expect from a Job Interview in a Foreign Country
by Jeff Yang, Portfolio.com

In Mexico, job applicants are routinely required to provide their height and weight. In Japan, a candidate may be asked about his or her father's career path, and whether he's a "productive member of society." In China, recruiters might inquire what hotel candidates are staying at and what class of travel they took -- with candidates rejected for being too "delicate" or "impulsive." The bottom line: Americans looking for jobs abroad should assume that no question is out of bounds.

"You may think there are ground rules based on your experience in the U.S., but be prepared to drop all that," says Melanie Kusin of Heidrick & Struggles. "If you're going to be defensive about discussing anything, don't bother going out for the interview." Here are a few specific areas of inquiry to be ready for.

Testing Torture

Multiple interviews over a period that may last weeks or even months as managers typically spend more time vetting foreign job candidates. In Western Europe especially, you should expect a battery of written tests that might include intelligence assessments, personality analyses, evaluations of cultural competence, and "situational exercises" where you're asked to role-play or simulate an aspect of the job for which you're being considered.

Six Degrees of Interrogation

Requests to detail any connections you might have with existing employees -- not to vaccinate against nepotism, but, on the contrary, to explore what common ground you might have with the incumbent team. "The value of 'inside contacts' is much more pronounced in countries outside of the U.S.," says Rebecca Powers, a consultant with Mercer. "It's not just name-dropping, it's an established part of the recruitment process. In Japan, for instance, employers initially target recruits who are known by current employees, or who have the same educational history as current employees, because they want people with similar values and backgrounds." Inside contacts are also particularly valued in Western Europe, where personal references and connections can play a make-or-break role in hiring.

Going Beyond Borders

Inquiries designed to assess if you're too "American" for the position. "Employers are on the lookout for people who aren't culturally adaptable," says Kusin. Do your homework first, she emphasizes, which means knowing the culture and the lifestyle changes you'll have to make in order to adjust to the new market; the typical American attitude that everywhere else in the world is just like the U.S. is a major handicap when applying for jobs abroad. Kusin recalls meeting with an executive with a major global advertising agency who was interested in pursuing a position based in South Africa. "She said to me, 'It's a perfect fit -- they speak English over there!'" says Kusin. "My first thought was, 'Wow, if that's your attitude, you really don't have what it takes to do this.'"

Portfolio.com. Copyright 2007 Conde Nast Inc. All rights reserved. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy.

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Are You Ready to Be Your Own Boss?

by Caroline Levchuck, Yahoo! HotJobs


America is a country built on an entrepreneurial spirit. People have been coming here for hundreds of years to realize their professional dreams, in large part because the U.S. is very small-business-friendly. In fact, small businesses make up a significant portion of employers in this country, and three-quarters of business firms have no payroll, as they are operated by self-employed professionals (source: U.S. Census Bureau).

If you've got dreams of joining the ranks of small business owners, ask yourself these five questions to see if you've got what it takes.

1. Are you committed?

The path to entrepreneurial success can be a long one. According to the Small Business Association, more than half of small businesses fail within five years, for a variety of reasons. It's important to be committed to the success and longevity of your business. There may be pitfalls and problems along the way, but if you're dedicated to staying the course, your odds for success will greatly increase.

2. Are you bold?

When you're in business for yourself, you have to sell yourself. There's no room for meekness when you're an entrepreneur. If you don't think you can talk your company up to potential clients, don't bother starting a company.

3. Are you disciplined?

You may have performed great at your last job, with a supervisor cracking a whip and establishing clear expectations. But will you be able to garner the same results when working independently?

Assess your level of self-discipline and organization before undertaking a solo venture. If you're not sure, take on some consulting or freelance work to see how you perform.

4. Are you financially secure?

Many businesses (not all) aren't immediately profitable. If you lack funding, a nest egg, financial support from a partner or spouse, or another way of generating a salary, this may not be the best time to strike out on your own.

Seek out investors or small business loans so you have a cushion. Save up or suck it up and get a part-time job to supplement your earnings (and perhaps even provide you with medical benefits) while you grow your business beyond its early days.

If you're not realistic about your financial needs, your business won't have a realistic chance of succeeding.

5. Are you experienced?

Lack of experience and knowledge about specific business practices are just two reasons new businesses fail soon after being founded. Make sure that you've got the know-how and hands-on experience to operate the business you're planning.

If you're opening a small store, your odds for success will increase if you've actually worked at a small store, preferably in management. A love of the product you're selling isn't enough; you need to understand every aspect of operations -- payroll and taxes, marketing, distribution, insurance, client relations -- before opening your company.

Learning as you go when you start a job is fine; learning as you go when you start a business is a recipe for disaster and failure.

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Find the Job That Is Right for You

by Robert M. Detman, for Yahoo! HotJobs


Some people were born knowing what they wanted to do. For the rest of us, it may require years of education and amassing a multi-page resume. Defining your personal job nirvana requires many considerations, but some tips below may help you find the job that is right for you.

The Self-Knowledge Base

Define the terms. "We can't possibly find satisfaction and fulfillment if we don't first define it," says Marilyn Walker, founder and managing director of the Right Turn on Red Career Assessment Center. People must define their standards of success, and then they need to look inward to assess their strengths and weaknesses, and decide what they are passionate about. "It's only work when you don't like doing it every day," Walker says.

Brainstorm. "Start picking your successful friends' brains," suggests Mike Beasley, an executive and career development coach. Ask friends to meet with you to discuss ideas and to help you focus on your career options. In some cases, your friends will have a keen insight on what your likes and dislikes are, so Beasley suggests you take notes while you meet. "Follow those threads. Think of the search as a scavenger hunt."

Test yourself. Career assessment tests, such as the Myers-Briggs Career Report and MAPP (Motivational Appraisal of Personal Potential), can provide objective data about one's hidden strengths. Career tests can help clarify one's aptitude, personal interests, and various personality factors.

"These assessments are similar to what many employers are utilizing today, and they help the individual consider the many dimensions that will contribute to satisfaction," career assessment director Walker says.

The Focused Search

Target. "Get organized and put your thoughts down on paper," suggests Bob Basile, of Career Coaching, Inc. He stresses that these ideas can be considered "buckets" into which you categorize and organize your preferences, allowing you to target ideas and weed out the unlikely paths.

Research. A wide variety of job and profession data -- who's hiring, trends, economics -- is available. "There are companies such as Wetfeet.com and Vault.com that do industry research," Basile says. In addition, a search on the Bureau of Labor and Statistics or the salary calculator on Yahoo! HotJobs can provide salary information based on education and experience levels.

Get in touch. "Informationally network," Basile says. "Once you have chosen which 'buckets' are most appealing to you and you have done your homework, it is now time to speak to people within these industries." Also look to your immediate resources, gathering information from friends and their contacts.

Follow through. Finally, career coach Basile advises that after you have selected your ideal job and have prepared yourself to go for it, you will still have to land that job, and perseverance is essential. "Don't assume a company isn't hiring because they don't have a job posted."

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Holiday Party Fouls Die Hard

Eat, Drink, and Be Wary
by Tom Musbach, Yahoo! HotJobs


Mistletoe and egg nog help make the holiday season festive, but they can lead to crazy behavior that coworkers talk about for years after the holiday work party is over.

In fact, a recent survey of creative professionals turned up some outrageous examples that they heard about or witnessed at company events. Here are some of the incidents:

    * "One guy ate the carnations from our dinner table."
    * "An employee fell into a cake at the company dinner."
    * "One person did an unflattering imitation of the company president."
    * "One colleague set another's wig on fire while it was on her head."

The quotes above were gathered in a survey by The Creative Group, a specialized staffing service for marketing, advertising, creative and Web professionals.

The behaviors described in those quotes are not stunts you should try at your holiday work party.

You Are Being Watched

"Company events are meant to be fun, but employees must remember their actions are still on display for coworkers and supervisors to see," said Dave Willmer, executive director of The Creative Group. "Inappropriate behavior can make a lasting negative impression that's hard to overcome."

"Party fouls" can lead to outcomes worse than momentary humiliation, such as firing. But a review of simple precautions and etiquette can help you have fun and keep your job, not to mention your dignity.

Be Merry and Wise

The staffing specialists offer the following tips for making a good impression:

Dress the part. A professional function usually demands professional attire. Avoid clothes that are too revealing or too tight. If you would not be comfortable wearing it to work, reconsider wearing it to the party.

Mix it up. Events outside the workplace are good for socializing with people you don't mingle with daily. Have a few topics of general interest at the ready -- such as recent movies or holiday plans -- to help prevent feeling awkward.

Eat a bite beforehand. Try to avoid coming to the party on an empty stomach. You'll be better able to focus on the people around you if you're not monopolizing the buffet table.

Limit libations. Alcohol will erode your good judgment. Stay safe by keeping your consumption to one or two cocktails, or don't drink alcohol at all.

End on a high note. Do not be the first or last person to leave the party, and be sure to thank the hosts or those who organized the event.

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Conversation Minefields on the Job

How to Handle Inappropriate Speech at Work
by Larry Buhl, for Yahoo! HotJobs

At some time, someone probably warned you to avoid three subjects in polite conversation: sex, religion, and politics. Add gossip, racial matters, and bragging to the list, and you've got all the conversational minefields to avoid in the workplace.

Sometimes the most innocuous statements can cause offense: the accountant giving too much information about his date last weekend, the sales executive trashing a candidate or political party, or even the PR associate who can't stop gushing over his huge new house, beautiful car, or smart kids.

Business etiquette experts agree that there are several ways to confront inappropriate office speech without making the situation worse or endangering your own position. There are no hard rules for every situation, however. Your reaction, or non-reaction, should depend on what was said, who said it, and your own status in the company.

To Confront or Not Confront

If your coworker dropped a verbal bomb, experts suggest the following strategies:

* Don't confront. In many cases it's best to press the 'ignore button' and walk away, especially if you're in a group setting. "Sometimes people try to goad you into arguing about a divisive subject," said Andrea Nierenberg, networking expert and president of the Nierenberg Group.

"Often you can simply respond with, 'I hear what you're saying,' then quickly move on. And do it without getting upset. If you fight fire with fire, you'll surely get burned," she says.

* Confront, with caution. If you know the talker and can be fairly certain he won't blow up, bring up the remark later, away from a group setting, according to business etiquette expert Randall Hansen. "Say, 'Maybe that topic you brought up should be kept outside the office.' He may appreciate the advice because it will save him from future embarrassment in the office or with clients."

* Speak from the "I." If you're offended and feel a strong need to respond, don't make the speaker wrong, warns business etiquette consultant Hilka Klinkenberg. "Don't respond with, 'How dare you say that,' but rather, 'That comment made me feel uncomfortable.'"

A Bomb From Above

If your boss or other higher-up crosses the line, the situation is trickier -- you may have to weigh the options of making a point or keeping your job.

In fact, Hansen recommends not going to human resources about such an incident. "Too many times a company will circle the wagons to protect a boss, even when they should want to know about the incident to prevent lawsuits and foster a better environment."

However, it is perfectly legitimate to document the incident in case it becomes a more serious situation. "And if you have mentors in the company who are on the boss' level or higher, tell them and let them approach the boss," Hansen says.

Being a Good Manager

On the other hand, if you're in a supervisory or management position, don't "press ignore" after hearing inappropriate comments.

"It's part of your responsibility to model and lead and set an example," says Hilka Klinkenberg. "If you let remarks slide you could open yourself and the company to liability issues around harassment and discrimination." Still, you should approach the speaker with tact and without anger, she suggests.

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Career Do's and Don'ts from 2007

Real-Life Lessons From Leaders and Celebrities
by Tom Musbach, Yahoo! HotJobs


Stars like Matt Damon, Oprah Winfrey, and Rosie O'Donnell are just a few of the public figures whose actions in 2007 -- good or bad -- offer career lessons for us all.

Whether it was bravely stepping out on "Dancing With the Stars" or getting fired for romancing a subordinate, understanding the six do's and don'ts below can help you move your career forward next year.

DO leverage your strengths. Matt Damon has long been known as a widely talented actor. This year, he built on the strength of his previous two "Bourne" films with his performance in the hugely successful "Bourne Ultimatum," bolstering his status as one of the most successful action-film stars in Hollywood.

"Finding out what you are good at and then working to get better at is a much more efficient use of your time and energy than trying to become a star in an area where you may not have much talent to begin with," says Richard Phillips, founder of Advantage Career Solutions.

DON'T use inappropriate language at work. Radio host Don Imus was fired from his longtime job for racially inflammatory language about the Rutgers women's basketball team.

"In general, steer clear of topics involving sex, drugs, race, and politics. Even if you think a comment is perfectly innocuous, someone else may very well see it differently," says Alexandra Levit, author of "They Don't Teach Corporate in College." "Once people perceive you as crass, sexist, or prejudiced, no amount of hard work in the world will restore your reputation in that organization."

DO acknowledge mistakes and take action to learn from them. After an abuse scandal surfaced at Oprah Winfrey's school for girls in South Africa, the talk-show host accepted responsibility for "inadequate" employee screening. She also traveled to the school to meet with parents and address their concerns.

Andrea Nierenberg, author of "Million Dollar Networking," says, "It takes a strong person to say, 'I was wrong,' and then to take the action to correct the problem. People respect you more and know that we all make mistakes -- yet it is an admirable person who goes the extra mile to quickly correct the mistake and take another action step."

DON'T get personally involved with a subordinate. The Red Cross ousted married CEO Mark Everson for having a personal relationship with one of his employees. The organization said the relationship showed "poor judgment" and damaged his credibility.

"Besides showing poor judgment, it is also unfair to the subordinate, whose career will likely be negatively impacted," says Phillips.

DO step outside your comfort zone. Racecar driver Helio Castroneves took a risk to learn ballroom dancing and perform on TV's "Dancing With the Stars." He backed it up with hard work and won the contest, opening up his career to new possibilities.

"Living in your safety zone year after year can make you stagnant and, well, boring," says Debra Davenport, a master professional mentor and career counselor. "If you're risk-averse, try conquering smaller challenges. Then, expand your horizons as you grow more comfortable. Who knows? You might even start your own business or embark on an entirely new and wonderful career!"

DON'T badmouth people who might be good references. Rosie O'Donnell's embattled tenure on "The View" ended prematurely this year, as her clashes with cohosts Elizabeth Hasselbeck and Barbara Walters were played out in the media.

"Rosie O'Donnell is your typical example of a workplace hothead -- someone who says exactly what they're thinking when they're thinking it regardless of the consequences," says Levit. "If you can't be diplomatic and communicate in a manner that shows that you respect others' points of view, colleagues won't want you around no matter how talented you are. 'The View' continues to offer examples (see last year's Star Jones mention) of how burning your bridges is never a good idea."

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Four Ways to Make Job Resolutions Work

by Caroline Levchuck, Yahoo! HotJobs


Every January, millions of people make New Year's resolutions, many of which are work-related. Get a new job. Get a promotion. Get a raise.

Unfortunately, many of these vows will fall by the wayside before the end of the first month of the year. Folks lose momentum. Some get overwhelmed. And others lose their nerve. Use these tips to make your resolutions a lasting reality in 2008.

1. Be Clear About Your Intentions

Terry Wilson-Malam, a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC), believes that all resolutions must be born out of clarity if people are going to stay the course. She counsels clients to be as honest as possible about what they want. If you're not sure of what your intent is, Wilson-Malam suggests, "Start a log of your accomplishments, small and large over the past few years. Those things will tell you where you are and where you can go next."

Also, ask yourself what you want more and less of. Do you want more flexibility? Less stress? More responsibility? Fewer meetings? Keep a list of your intentions, as they will inform the action you need to take.

2. Make a Plan with Actionable Steps

"An action plan is absolutely imperative," says Wilson-Malam, owner of Wilson Malam Coaching and Consulting. Create a plan that works toward your goal, whether it's growing your network or looking for new work. Then, she advises breaking the plan down into actionable steps. "Focus on small steps that are realistic. If your plan is to network, choose events that you'll go to, but choose them carefully to make sure they are in line with your overall intentions."

The executive coach adds, "Getting promoted is a bit harder to be actionable about as compared to finding a new job. But you can learn to be in the right frame of mind -- think and act like a manager in certain situations at work to help you move toward your goal."

3. Measure Your Results

Results motivate changers to stick to their plans, so it's very important that you see measurable results as you adhere to your resolution. However, Wilson-Malam, says, "You have to be very clear as to what those results will be." This stems from having a straightforward plan of action and clarity on what you want to accomplish.

"Being able to tick off things from your action list can even be a result," she adds.

4. Stay Focused

It's easy to start the year with the best of intentions only to lose your nerve as your goal is within sight. Wilson-Malam says, "If you've been in a job for a long time, it's really easy to hate it but love what you know about it. A new search and a new job often mean more work and more time and going out of your comfort zone."

To muster courage, she urges job-changers to go back to their list of intentions. "If you look at that list and it reminds you that you're stagnating, that will make you less afraid of changing now."

She also suggests enlisting the help of a trusted confidante, a mentor, or a coach who can cheer you on and remind you why you undertook this challenge in the first place.

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Five Secrets of Successful Job Hunters

by Joe Turner, for Yahoo! HotJobs


Completing a 26-mile marathon race shares some characteristics with a successful job search.

There is one "winner" who crosses the finish line first. There are the many who quit before they've completed the race. Finally, there are the rest of us who don't finish first, but are determined to complete the race nevertheless.

For most of us, half the battle is finishing the race, regardless of where we place among the finishers. The same goes for a job search.

The Five Secrets

1. Visualize. Marathon runners and other goal-directed athletes are great at visualization. They set a goal and see themselves achieving it. The same applies for your job search. Set a goal and see yourself achieving it. No matter how many setbacks you have, hold that vision of the job you want. Continue to hold it.

Focus on the outcome you want, and not on how you're going to achieve it. Picture it in your mind. Be specific. What is your supervisor like? How about your co-workers? What is your workspace like? What hours do you work? Including your right brain in the imagination and visualization process enhances the achievement of your goal.

2. Be Persistent. Just as in running a marathon, nothing worth having is ever easy to achieve. There is a lot of rejection in job search. Sometimes it seems as if you'll never get a "yes." Remember what good sales people already know: that winning a sale, a job, or any other goal is a numbers game. Commission sales people will tell you that every "no" is one step closer to a "yes." When you can see your process from a more objective viewpoint, knowing that you're one more rejection closer to a "yes," you'll be less inclined to take the "no's" personally or get discouraged.

3. Replenish Yourself. The job search process, like a marathon race, can be an endurance test with a lot of disappointments and setbacks. It can also go on for weeks, months, and for some people, even a year or more. If you're going to outlast this process and prevail, you have to take care of yourself. This means taking time to relax to take your mind off the challenges, frustrations and rejections. Work hard on your job search, then take time out to exercise and pursue activities that bring you joy and replenish you.

4. Inoculate Yourself Against Negative Messages. Succeeding at a job search is a mental process, and negative input from anywhere can poison your mental outlook and encourage fear, discouragement, anxiety, anger, and other negative emotions. Associate with positive people and protect yourself from all types of negativity.

A job search can be a big undertaking. You need all of the assets and advantages that you can possibly bring to the party. You can't afford to be exposed to the negativity of others. This includes friends, relatives, and negative articles in newspapers and magazines as well as negative TV shows. Make a point of reading books and articles that motivate, encourage, and inspire you.

5. Meditate. This can be the most important secret, yet it can be very simple. Take some time every day to be still and to get away from the "white noise" of life. Whether you are a spiritual person or not, commit to some quiet time away from the noise of TV, radio, and other distractions. Give yourself the gift of quietness to contemplate, calm down, and center yourself. Even five minutes of quiet time can make a positive difference in your life. It will ground you and make it easier to face and overcome the stresses of your job search journey ahead.

As with successful marathoners, job hunters have some secret tactics that make their success look easy to others. Winning the job search game has a mental component. Developing the above five winning secret tactics will enhance your chances of success, and make the process more pleasant and less stressful.

As a recruiter, Joe Turner has spent the past 15 years finding and placing top candidates in some of the best jobs of their careers. Known on the Internet as "The Job Search Guy", Joe has also authored 'how-to' books on interviewing and job search. Discover more insider job search secrets at his site.

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