Accelerate Your Learning Curve for More Success and Less Stress

by Susan Dunn

Jobs Indonesia,  Careers,  Indonesia Vacancy

Downsizing and technological advances put demands on us to learn more and learn it faster. As support staff and auxiliary positions disappear, job functions are consolidated, teamwork becomes the norm, and computer and other technologies keep proliferating, we are faced with a stressful amount of new things to learn in a diminishing amount of time.

 

Yet the faster you can learn new things, the more valuable you will be to your employer, and the more likely you’ll be to advance in your Careers. It isn’t an option these days.

 

WHAT LEARNING CURVES HAVE IN COMMON

What can you do to accelerate your learning curve and increase your value to your employer? The interesting thing is that there are things all learning curves have in common, whether you’re learning how to facilitate team work, learning a new software program, learning a new language, or learning how to negotiate. The better you understand the mechanics of THE learning curve, the better you’ll be able to deal with the individual ones that come along, and this is part of Emotional Intelligence.

 

GETTING RID OF THE FEAR

If you think back on things you’ve learned in the past, you’ll probably realize that one of the things that slowed you down was fear. I can certainly think of examples in my own case.

 

An example of how fear can slow you down is evident if you’ve watched a young child learn how to ski. A child doesn’t fear failure nor success, nor do they fear falling down. New things are an every day occurrence for a child, and this is just the next one. In learning to ski, they fall repeatedly and bounce back like a rubber ball. They consider it all fun. Thus there is nothing slowing down the learning except their ability to master the motor skills. What a relief!

Many of the Emotional Intelligence competencies facilitate learning. One of them is flexibility. The skiing example shows a sort of physical flexibility, but this is applicable to mental tasks as well. We don’t all learn best the same way. You may be sent to a seminar or training that doesn’t fit your learning style. If you’re flexible, and have learned how to learn (the learning curve), you’ll be able to shape things to your own benefit.

 

Take learning a new software program, for instance, something many of us are faced with almost monthly. One person may learn better by reading the manual, while another may do better by being shown. Yet another may be used to the “throw them to the wolves method,” or by hearing a tape or looking at an interactive video on the computer screen.

 

This has to do with your innate learning style which can be discovered through an assessment such as the StrengthsFinder® profile, by working with a coach, or by analyzing your own history. Generally when left to your own devices, you’ll do what comes naturally to you, which will always be the quickest and easiest way for you to learn.

 

LEARNING HISTORIES

A client I’ll call Alicia learned how to type when she was 6 years old. Her mother let her ‘play’ on the family typewriter. By the time she got to high school and took a typing class which attempted to teach her “touch typing,” it was too late to unlearn the old ways, yet she keyboards at over 100. Would anyone complain about the method?

 

Then she took a jobs Indonesia where her boss told her he wanted a newsletter in two weeks, and gave her – wouldn’t you know? – a Mac. Being used to tinkering, she started right in, asking an office mate some pertinent questions, and figuring it out fairly rapidly although she had never touched a computer before. Someone else might have refused that jobs indonesia or demanded lessons.

 

The next job Alicia had she was required to use a PC, and she tackled that on her own as well.

 

Nick, however, learns best from formal instruction, and then having a manual at his side. It confuses him if someone tries to instruct him sitting by his side or talking to him. He would rather work on his own, in peace and quiet.

 

Emotional Intelligence starts with self-awareness – knowing your emotions as well as your cognitive abilities, and particularly how they interface. Nick and Alicia were both able to learn computer skills, but they were comfortable in different settings, and it’s emotional “comfort,” that gets rid of the fear and accelerates the learning curve. Learning has a huge emotional component to it that is just now being honored in our schools and in the work place.

 

MOVE RAPIDLY FOR BEST RESULTS

A crucial point is the longer you stay in the confused stage, the more stress you’ll experience. This will reinforce itself, making it harder for you to learn in the future. In essence you’ll be slowing down your learning curve each time.

The faster you learn each thing, the less agony, and the better and faster you’ll learn in the future. It’s a win-win. Your employer wants you to learn fast, and it’s in your best interest to learn fast.

 

Another great benefit is then learning is fun – like the 6 year old learning to ski. This is turn will make you more resilient (the stress-buster for the 00s) because studies have shown that lifetime learning contributes to resilience.

The ability to change rapidly, be flexible and learn quickly are highly valued by today’s employers and reduce your personal stress levels.

These are all Emotional Intelligence competencies you can learn. How? Start with an overview of the field and an assessment of your own Emotional Intelligence (EQ or EI). You can take an interactive Emotional Intelligence course on the Internet, and then work with a certified Emotional Intelligence coach who can provide individual instruction to improve your competencies.

Developing your Emotional Intelligence has many benefits. It can accelerate the learning curve because it teaches you correct patterns, makes previous knowledge more accessible, allows for better cognitive functioning, and manages the emotions so they help the process, not hinder it. It can also increase your ability to get the help – and the kind of help – you need from others.

Even if faced with learning something completely new, you’ll learn to recognize the steps and feelings that go along with each stage which will eliminate a lot of stress.

You’ve taken care of your academic education, but what about your Emotional Intelligence? Take a second look. Many people are finding it to be the missing piece in their Careers plan.

 

Job Tip ==> 10 Holiday Season Job Search Tips for College Graduates

By brian

Jobs Indonesia, Careers, Indonesia Vacancy

During the holidays many things we can do. one of them is working, with working holiday can become a more valuable thing. The following are tips to find work during the holidays :

1. Focus 90% of your job search on networking, but be sure you know how to network effectively

To be successful at networking, you must reach out to your network in a way that makes people want to recommend you or hire you. One way to do this is to be positive. Instead of sharing frustrations with your job search, talk about what types of positions are appealing to you and what kinds of challenges you are eager to take on.

2. Do not limit your search to only “available” positions

Spend time researching companies you ‘re interested in and make connections with people who work there. Get the name of the person who has the authority to hire you and write him or her a detailed letter explaining why you want to work for that company. Describe what your unique contributions would be. Be proactive and send along your list of references and resume. Be willing to start on a part-time basis or in a contract position. One foot in the door is better than a closed door.

3. Send an end of the year “Happy Holidays” email to all of your close business contacts with a brief mention about your job search

Be sure to include a short description of the types of positions you are interested in pursuing. Keep this short, positive, and professional.

4. Attend holiday events

You’ll especially want to focus on events hosted by professional organizations and alumni associations you belong to.

If you do not currently belong to any, join some. You can always tag along to friends parties if invited as well.

5. Learn how to differentiate between jobs posted by placement firms and jobs listed by actual companies

This is especially important for entry level workers who waste a lot of time on wild goose chases by simply sending a resume to every job posting they find. 

Be on the lookout for:

• the same contact phone number attached to several job listings

• multiple listings for the same position listed by the same firm

6. Be easy to find

Update your online alumni profile. If you use social networking sites like LinkedIn, Facebook, or MySpace make sure your information is up to date.

7. Be Friendly and Meet New People

You never know who is looking to fill a position that you would be perfect for. Better yet, you may just convince someone to create a position just for you. This is a good reason not to blow off your spouse’s holiday party either.

8. Appreciate Informational Interviews

Too many job seekers blow informational interviews off as a waste of time, but they can be an invaluable resource. The person you talk to just might think of the perfect position for you in a week or two, or recommend you to a friend.

9. Keep Your Online Image Clean

If you wouldn’t want your mother to see it, keep it off the Internet. Employers are researching job applicants online in increasing numbers according to a survey administered by the National Association of Colleges and Employers in 2007. Ten percent of employers who responded to the survey said they would review social networking site profiles before making a hiring decision. Out of that ten percent, over half said the information they find online will impact whether or not that candidate is offered a position. The remaining employers surveyed said they are unsure how their online findings should influence their hiring decisions.

If you have a blog, podcast, web site – or you regularly participate on someone else’s – what you put out there may be reviewed by a potential employer. Maintain a professional image both on and off the Internet and you won’t have anything to worry about.

10. Always Have an Updated Resume

Keeping a well written, updated resume handy is critical during your job search because this allows you take advantage of opportunities as soon as you learn about them. For someone who wants to help you find a job there is nothing more frustrating than learning you don’t have your resume finished or updated. Even when you aren’t looking for a job it is important to keep your resume updated. Revisit your resume at the end of each month to add new achievements and information.

Job Tip --> Top 10 Holiday Tips For Career Success

by Ford Myers

Jobs Indonesia, Careers, Indonesia Vacancy

Every year as the holidays approach, most jobseekers and career changers make the mistake of halting all their efforts. They believe there is no point in pursuing new opportunities during the holidays, and that nobody is making hiring decisions until January, so "why bother?" Many decide to do absolutely nothing from mid-November to the second or third week in January!

Making these kinds of assumptions about the holidays is, again, a huge mistake!

When it comes to the holidays, I suggest you become a "contrarian" – and do what all the other job seekers are not doing. Since most of them are taking an extended break, this opens up real opportunities for you!

The reality is that the holidays are an excellent time to develop and create new contacts for your job search or career transition. Many companies are completing their budget planning for the next fiscal year. This is often the best time to get in front of hiring managers to create a position for you next year. Many managers have to fill openings early in the year or they may lose the budget for that position. Also, once year-end bonuses are paid, a predictable percentage of employees will leave their jobs, creating new vacancies!

Here are 10 career-savvy tips for the holidays from Ford R. Myers, President of Career Potential, LLC, an executive career consulting firm based in Radnor, PA:

1. IT’S ALL ABOUT RELATIONSHIPS
Business is all about establishing relationships – and relationships are developed in social settings! During the holidays, most people are naturally more convivial and generous in spirit. There is simply no better time to solidify existing relationships and forge new ones!

2. TUNE IN TO THE NETWORK
There are many networking events in November and December – in your social life, in your community, and in your professional circles. Think of all the companies having holiday parties. Many charities have their last fundraisers of the tax year in November and December. Book sales, holiday fairs and other celebrations make this the best time of year for productive networking!

3. SMALL TALK REAPS BIG BENEFITS
Most professional associations have a holiday party for their December meeting, with a more informal atmosphere than the formal presentations held throughout the rest of the year. Do not bring a resume to these events. Create a simple, tasteful business card with your name, phone number and e-mail address. Be prepared to make interesting small talk to establish new contacts. Ask the people you meet about themselves, their work, and their interests. Remember, everyone’s favorite subject is "themselves!"

4. CONVERSATION STARTERS AND STOPPERS
Prior to a social or networking event, prepare at least three neutral questions you can ask, such as:

• How do you know the host, the company, etc.?
• What made you decide to come to this event?
• What other organizations in this industry do you belong to?

When you find it’s time to move on and talk with someone new, you’ll need some phrases to help you transition during the event. Here are some good "exit lines:"

• I’ll let you go now, so you can continue circulating around the room.
• I’ll stop monopolizing your time so you can meet some other folks.
• It was great speaking with you. I’ll follow up as we discussed.

5. VOLUNTEER
There are more volunteer opportunities around the holidays than at any other time of year. This is a good way to help other people, feel good when you need a boost, have a renewed sense of purpose during your search, and meet other professionals. Volunteering also gives you something interesting to discuss with the new people you meet!

6. CALL PEOPLE
Use the day after Thanksgiving to make both follow-up calls and cold calls. You’ll find that whoever is at work that day will not only be available for a conversation, but will be grateful to speak to someone! If there are people who you’ve been having a hard time reaching, be sure to take advantage of this unique opportunity.

7. SEND HOLIDAY CARDS
Pick a seasonal, nondenominational theme – usually a depiction of a winter scene is best. This is the time to send cards to everyone on your "career list," including executive search firms, Human Resource professionals, and hiring managers with whom you have interacted over the past year. Don't write about your job search in the card. Send your cards early enough for people to remember to invite you to their holiday get-togethers, and to send you a card in return! Be sure to include your contact information with the card, so the recipient can also reach you.

8. ‘TIS BETTER TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE
Remember the old saying popular at this time of year, "Tis better to give than to receive." This is certainly true when you’re attempting to connect with people during the holidays. The fastest and most effective strategy for getting help is "give to get." Ask the people in your network if you can be of help to them in any way, or if there is anyone who they might like an introduction to. Become a real "connector," and in turn, you will become "connected!"

9. PLUG IN AND TURN ON 

Technology has come a long way. Use the holidays to connect and reconnect with people on business networking web sites, such as http://www.facebook.com,http://www.twitter.com and http://www.ecademy.com. Connect with local businesspeople in cyberspace and then take your connection "live" with a face-to-face meeting. You can also use these web sites as a great system to follow-up and keep in touch!

10. BECOME AN OPPORTUNITY MAGNET
At holiday time, some jobseekers tend to become overly negative or cynical during what they perceive as a "lull" in their career transition. Don’t fall into this trap. Get into positive action precisely when others are "giving up" until early next year. Think and speak positively, and you’ll become a magnet – ready to attract, interview, and "hire" your next employer.

If you’re currently in career transition or looking to move-up at your organization, these strategies should give you a new perspective on the holidays! Instead of "taking a vacation" from your career development activities, take full advantage of this overlooked opportunity to make real progress in your quest. Then, you’ll really have something to celebrate!
 

 

Job Tips : Jobs for the Holidays

Seasonal, Temp and Part-Time Jobs

By Alison Doyle

 

Jobs Indonesia, Careers, Indonesia Vacancy

Christmas is the busiest retail season of the year. Between 25% and 50% of total annual retail sales take place during the holidays and retail employers usually increase their workforce by at least 4% just for the holiday gift-buying rush. Employers are already hiring additional staff to ring the cash registers.  
1. Seasonal Retail Jobs
Many stores have help wanted signs in their window and your best bet, if you're interested in a retail seasonal job, is to walk around the mall or your town, and stop in and fill out an application. Macy's, Target and Walmart accept online applications. You can apply online or over the phone for some JC Penney positions. Also, check out the local job searching resources for your city or state. Many of the employers who hire extra help for the holidays are the same employers who hire part-time help. So, be sure to check the part-time job sites.

To expedite your job search, use the job search engines to find seasonal jobs. You can either use the Advanced Search option, selecting Temporary Jobs, or search by keyword for "seasonal" or "temp" jobs.
 
2. Temp Seasonal Jobs
Temporary agencies often seek additional staff for their clients during the holiday season. Kelly Services, Snelling & Snelling and Manpower all provide searchable databases of temporary positions. Temping is one of the fast growing employment sectors in the country and the range of available positions has increased significantly. One of the big pluses of temp work is that you can do it on your schedule. The IRS and state tax departments need help in processing tax returns starting in early January. Government Jobs has links to federal, state and local governmental agencies.
 
3. Delivery Jobs
Package delivery services add staff, including drivers and handlers, to help them deal with the deluge of holiday boxes. FedEx has a searchable database of jobs and you can apply online. DHL and UPS also have employment information available online.
 
4. Outdoor Seasonal Jobs
Does the outdoors sound more attractive? Ski areas and resorts hire extra help for the holiday and winter season. Typical position include ski instructors and patrol, snowmaking and hotel and restaurant staff. Some facilities include housing and discounted lift tickets. Also review hospitality, travel and outdoor job listings so you're reviewing a broad range of options. You'll find that many of the jobs in these career fields are seasonal by nature.

Career Tips --> Develop a career plan

By mappingyourfuture.org

Jobs Indonesia, Careers, Indonesia Vacancy

 

A career plan helps you determine your skills and interests, what career best suits your talents, and what skills and training you need for your chosen career.

By developing a career plan, you can focus on what you want to do and how to get there. And when you are ready to develop your resume, you will have a better understanding of your skills and experiences to discuss with potential employers.

Get started now:

1. Decide your career goal, which can help you focus more clearly on possibilities available to you.  

• A career goal can be a specific job you want to do -- such as doctor or teacher -- or be a particular field you want to work in, such as medicine or education.
• Rather than limiting your future, a career goal may help you discover career possibilities you wouldn't have thought of otherwise. There are several job possibilities with any chosen career. For instance, if you choose a medical career, you may want to be a scientist, a nurse, or a doctor.
• A career goal can also guide you into doing what you want with your life.

2. Determine what you need to do to prepare for your chosen career. Do you need special training? If so, find out what schools offer the training you need. Also, determine what kind of experience will you need to be successful in the career. Consider an internship as a way to get work experience in the career field.

3. Write your career plan.  See our sample for inspiration.

10 Best Part Time Jobs For College Students

By Azhar Devaraj Victor

Job Vacancy Indonesia, Employee, Vacancy

What are the best part time jobs for college students? These are jobs which allow flexibility in terms of working hours and to a great extent location. The main focus of college students should be their studies and the timely completion of the courses that they have signed up for. Though part time jobs enable college students a source of much needed income, such jobs should not, in any way, distract them from their studies. Based on the above, the following are some of the 10 best part time jobs for college students:

1. Online Surveys: There are several sites and Google Ads that will help you learn more about online surveys. Pick the ones that have a proven track record and are offered by reputable sources.
2. College or on campus jobs: Check out the part time jobs that are available at your college or those near you. It could be something administrative especially during student intake peaks or an operational job. The library, counter, student counseling, cafeteria or any such service areas offer part time work opportunities.
3. Sales Promoters: You will be surprised at how much you can make for just a few hours a day. Pick those where you can select the number of hours you wish to work or the shift that is suitable to you.
4. Fast Food Workers: Turnover is very high especially at the popular outlets. They take on many part timers who leave to take on better opportunities. These people need to be replaced on a constant basis as service standards have to be maintained.
5. Hotel F & B Assistants: These are high labour intensive jobs. Conferences, seminars, weddings and other such events require a lot of manpower.
6. Online Affiliate Marketers: There is a huge opportunity here and they are among the best part time jobs for college students. You can do this with just a computer with Internet connection. You can work from anywhere, chose how much you want to do and when you want to work. A laptop would give you greater freedom with this type of work.
7. Donors: Find out from the hospitals nearest to you whether they need donors. Some pay for blood and plasma donations.
8. Care Centre Helpers: Homes for senior citizens or nurseries need people to spend a few hours reading, talking, to residents, playing with children or doing some cleaning. Call these centres and find out what they may be able to offer.
9. eBay Sellers: Sell products online. There are many other sites where you can do this. However, eBay is the best and most popular.
10. Research Study Assistants: Some post graduate students might need someone to organise their documents, type or read some material and make notes. Research centres may need some participants in their programs.

Surviving a Prolonged Economic Downturn

By Sarah Weinberger

Job Vacancy Indonesia, Employee, Vacancy   

Many people are facing dire times during a prolonged economic downturn, which started by and large in late 2007, although depending upon your specialty, the beginnings of the recession started in the '80s with the outsourcing of American manufacturing jobs to other countries. It was just a matter of time before white collar work got outsourced too. The politics of the situation, though, do not change the reality for many people. With bills to pay and many people out of work for two years or more with no unemployment benefits, philosophical discussions are a moot issue. Solving the problem is tantamount. For some, joining the military is an option, especially if you are younger, but for others that is not an option.

Although I cannot promise anyone a sure fire way that guarantees a job, I can tell you how to what the best strategies are, which will place you in the best possible position, so that you can get one of the few jobs, which are available. You do not have to work hard, but you do have to put in time and be smart. Okay, so let us begin.

The first thing that you should do is to discard old beliefs. Sending out five or so targeted resumes that you research and know that you are qualified for every couple of weeks does not cut the mustard anymore, so to speak. What you think of your qualifications is not as important as what the employer and recruiter thinks of your qualifications. Apply to anything and everything within plausibility of your field. You do not need to read the job descriptions. You only need to glance at it quickly. Your motto should be to throw enough things against the wall, so that not only will something stick, namely that you get an interview, but that you get hired too. You need to make a nuisance of yourself. Be heard. You should send out several hundred resumes every other day. In a month time period, you should have sent out several thousand. Yes, you can do that and not spend more than a couple hours a day on the activity. I will tell you how later in this article.

In most jobs, one does a varied number of things. For instance, many people in white collar jobs have to do a bit of project management, even if you are not the project manager (PM). Maybe you had to train people. Did you ever have to write something? What I am driving after is that you should explore working in a related field. It does not matter what you think of your skills, but what the hiring manager thinks. I say hiring manager, because you can work around recruiters. They are two dimensional in nature, as are human resource managers. By the way, being a human resource manager is another possibility.

Create one resume for each type of work. Mention every job that you had, but emphasize skills in the area that you want to push. Try to recollect back to your time and think if you did anything in that field, if even scarcely. If you did, play that up. Do a search on job boards and find industry buzzwords in the field. Research what they mean. You can do that by doing a Google search. Add those buzzwords, which you feel comfortable. Maybe you can study a bit those buzzwords and do some practice exercises with them, so that you know the lingo.

When the going gets tough, the tough should start working smartly and aggressively. Craft one cover letter for each job type. Be willing to accept a small decrease in pay, if you get into high-paying field for which you really do not have that many skills. You will be receiving remuneration for advancing your skillset and getting into a new line of work. Be happy. I did not say to sell yourself short. You should never do that.

When the topic of distance comes up, act like you have been to that location a zillion times. The answer should always be that the distance is not bad and that you can do that easily. What difference is it to anyone what the actual time is? You are not being paid for it, so why discuss that you will be on the road for an hour. Be firm and reassuring that the distance is not bad and that you are experienced.

Work every job board and be prepared to talk with recruiters and human resource personnel when they call. Never, and I do mean NEVER, discuss your job search and how it is going with anyone. It is not their business. When a recruiter asks if you have any pending interviews, be firm that you do not discuss your job search. Act like a manager and the one that is in charge. Take control of the conversation. That includes finding out what the job position is. Most recruiter will not initially give out this information, as they want to screen you to see if you have the skillset. They may ask you to describe your ideal job. Try to avoid getting angry or agitated. That only hurts you. Obviously, the answer is any job that pays and is close to home, but you cannot say that, sadly. Tell them what they want to hear. You must tell them that you want to work in that field for which they are calling. How can you do that? You do that by keeping track of which jobs you applied to and having the information at your fingertips indexed by company name and contact person. If someone is calling you, more than likely it is because you applied for the job.

I will give you a word of advice. Be very cautious about giving out your social security number and other key pieces of information. You do not need to fill that out on an initial interview. If it becomes serious, then provide it. If a company requests it for tracking purposes, such as with Bank of America, I would think twice. Companies like Bank of America do not care about you. They could care less. It is up to you to protect your own interests, just as they do their own. I would think twice about applying for those types of jobs. Maybe you want to if the situation is desperate enough, but I would still error on the side of caution.

Searching for a job effectively today cannot be done the old fashioned way. Employers and recruiters have tools to help them, you should as well. More than likely you have either a computer or a laptop. It is time that you get a software program which will help you do the chores related to finding a job. When checking into a software tool, your software tool should allow you to apply for jobs without opening a million tabs. It should assist you with your with resumes and a host of other things.

Be careful to not get flustered and throw up your hands doing a job search. Let us look at a common situation, where this happens. Remember, people will only see the end result, the final email, not all the hard work that went into applying for a job. Job boards are the most notorious, as far as being a pain in the rear. Even so called simple boards, like craigslist, are a pain to use. Take craigslist, in order to apply for a job, you must navigate to a job category and then open up jobs of interest on a separate tab. You then have to open up a new blank email form, one for each job, and then fill out each piece of information that goes into an email, one by one. You can easily spend ten minutes to send out one resume. The work does not end there, as you should keep track of this application, so that you can add information later on and retrieve information later on too. Yes, this part of the job search process is the most tedious and the most dreadful.

Be careful to not feel humiliated dealing with job boards, endlessly rewriting resumes, and especially talking with recruitment and employment contacts endlessly. There is also the matter of a long period of your life, not knowing when money will flow again, without money, seeing your life put on hold. That has an enormously damaging feeling to one's psyche. To avoid these issues, even with help, you should do things that reinforce your sense of self-worth. For different people that can mean different things. Spend a portion of each week reinforcing your self-esteem. That will help you in your job search, as nobody wants to hire a loser.

You should also note that the best time to apply for jobs is the first thing in the morning, so that people see your email when they first get in. If you send out emails on a Sunday or in the afternoon, it will get buried along with other people's email. Did you know that applying for a job on a job board merely sends an email to the person that took out the ad? This restriction puts more pressure on you.

Okay, I suppose that I do not have to tell you, but dress well and dress to impress, even if you are a college graduate. I do not say that lightly. I talk from experience. I was still at college, when I went for my first job interview. I asked my father how I should dress. He told me that I am a student and then will see me as such, so I should dress that way. Not having anyone tell me different, I listened to him. I was taken aside after the interview and given a talk to by the hiring manager about how to dress. Needless to say, I did not get that job. Speaking of learning things through the School of Hard Knocks, and I hold a PhD from that university graduated with high marks, you should listen to criticism and accept it if it is valid, but reject it if you do not feel that it suits you. People say things to help you, but that does not mean that everything that someone says will help you. You know yourself best, but do not be prideful and reject good advice.

If you want to dress well and on a budget, I would recommend JC Penney, if you happen to have one in your area. They have great men's and women's professional outfits at great prices that anyone can afford. I would also check out Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack. Sometimes they have last year's outfits at reduced prices.

When the phone rings and you start talking to someone, if you do not know an answer, do not try to bluff anyone. That looks bad. Jot down the question for latter research, but for the moment just say that you do not know. The worst that can happen is that you blow the conversation, but will learn the question for the next person that calls. Many company's do a phone screen at first, so expect that.

More than likely, if you get the job, then you will get the offer within a day, most likely within a short time of the interview. When interviewers keep interviewing, then they did not like you. It is as simple as that, although they may interview other people and then get back to you, so you never know.

There is a job for everyone, just as there is that certain someone for everyone. You have to be persistent and stay in there. Keep up the education. If there is a long period of unaccounted for time in your resume, add in short block to account for the period. I would recommend adding in some sort of education. That can show people that your skills are still relevant.

The first step to finding a job is to stay focused and come up with a plan. Decide that you will apply to jobs. Do that like you would any other chore that you do every day. The most important thing is to not get discouraged and remember that you are a valuable person. Be creative.

By following these steps, you will see that the phone will start to ring and you will get interviews, both phone and onsite. From there, it is up to you. Be positive and smile at the interview. Do not forget to shake the person's hand.

Let me know your thoughts. I would like to hear from you. You can leave a comment on the blog or by sending an email via the site.

Job Seekers - GET OUT

By Meredith Masse

Job Vacancy Indonesia, Employee, Vacancy   

If you're like most job seekers, you're spending your day searching job boards, sending your resume fiendishly to anything that looks close to what you might want to do and crossing your fingers that someone...ANYONE... will just call you in for an interview.

My friends, it's time for a change. First... So you're feeling a little... let's face it... unmotivated, maybe bordering on apathetic. It happens to all of us at one time or another so first, please know: YOU ARE COMPLETELY NORMAL. You're allowed to have your feelings, and I always encourage family, friends and clients alike to REALLY FEEL them. What you're going through right now is no fun to say the least. But I also would not be doing my job and fulfilling my mission if I were to let you stay there too long. So this is your official kick in the pants. Get up. No, really, right now. Stretch. Take three deep mind-clearing breaths. And set your mind to GET OUT. Out of your doldrums AND out from behind that computer. That's right: it's time to DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT.

"GET OUT? BUT WHERE?" My strongest recommendation for your "theme" for the next month:

GET OUT! Step away from the computer and get your face out there in front of people who can hire you, recommend you, refer you. Some ideas (and I and other readers welcome your comments below with more suggestions!):

CHECK THE CHAMBER. Does your local Chamber do ribbon cuttings for new members? You will find attendees to these events aren't the typical cast and crew of most networking events. Go and be ready to introduce yourself to all the new faces.

ATTEND GRAND OPENINGS. Keep an eye out for the businesses that are opening their doors at grand opening events. Again, not the usual cast of characters and a great way to meet the people from the surrounding businesses. Open houses, too. If you know of businesses holding open houses, go! For all the same reasons noted above.

GET SOME CLASS. Go to a computer class, a LinkedIn class, a class related to your hobby (art, cooking, wine tasting, pottery, quilting, golf, exercise, fly fishing...), something that engages your brain, helps you learn a new or keep up a skill, gets you into a space with others who are doing the same. The trick is you cannot be shy. Again, introduce yourself and start to make new connections.

"MEET UP." Love hiking? Speaking a foreign language? Check local "meet-ups" in your area to find like-minded people who enjoy the same activities you do. You'll have one thing instantly in common and may find that will accelerate the ice breaking to start talking about how you can support one another in other ways. You support them with what they need; they'll support you in your job search.

VOLUNTEER. Everyone and their grandmother will tell you that volunteering is a great resume builder and that volunteers often have the first "in" for positions as they are available. ("Duh," Meredith.) But I'm talking about volunteering for the sheer joy of helping someone (or some "thing," cause, crusade, etc.) else other than yourself. Go give to someone else selflessly for a day. Consider volunteering for a cause where you stay busy helping others and focus on their challenges rather than your own. Helping others gives you the satisfaction of knowing you are making a difference in the world. That alone will elevate your mood. And don't ignore those other volunteers. Have I said it enough? Introduce yourself and really connect with the other volunteers. You never know who they know.

GO TO LUNCH. Schedule lunch with former colleagues, community connections, employed friends and others who might know people you need to know who can help in your search. Buy them lunch (or coffee) in exchange for time to tap their expertise. Tapping into their ego in this way works. EVERYONE loves to be asked for their expert $0.02 and advice. Everyone. And it gets you out of the house. Be prepared with specifics you want to ask about. Make the most of your time and theirs. In the process you're starting to create champions and advocates for " Cause: You."

ASK. All this "getting out" is all very well and good, but make the most of it and ask people with whom you are developing these relationships for help with exactly what you need: introductions and referrals. Get specific: "I would love to meet anyone who works in XYZ industry, ABC company or holds 123 position in an organization. Do you know someone like that you could introduce me to?" Or "I saw an opening at ACME Company and remember you mentioning you knew people there. Would you help me be get my resume in front of some people there?"

FOLLOW-UPING. My friend TC (Very Direct Marketing) coined the term to replace that nasty "c-c" word we all hate (Cold-calling). As you GET OUT and build your "database" (little black book, contacts in your Blackberry, friends on Facebook, connections on LinkedIn), you have to stay in touch. Contact them at least once a month to stay top of mind (another favorite TC-ism) and remind them how they can hep you. This includes your best friend's mother, the manicurist at the salon where you get your hair done even if she doesn't do your nails, the guy at Goodyear who changes the oil in your car, your favorite bartender and her manager.

"WHY BOTHER?" BECAUSE NETWORKING WORKS. "But, Meredith, I hate networking." Maybe this will help motivate you to change your mind:

• 75-85% of job openings are never published on those job boards you so love to spend your time on.
• Even better, 70-80% of job seekers report finding their "next position" through networking.

Enough said?

"WHAT DO I NEED?" A eye catching - kick butt - top of mind resume! Even with all the social media in the world, you still have to have a resume. Consider it your personal brochure that answers, "What's in it for me if I hire you?" every hiring manager is asking. ( Resume help here! ) A decent 30-second "commercial" describing what you're looking for, what you offer and how others can help. Again, the more specific, the easier it is for people to know how to help you. Personal business cards. Yes, get business cards even if there's no company and title to put on them yet. Include all your contact information and consider using the space on the back of the card to put some "promotional" wording about why YOU are the best one for the job. VistaPrint.com has a nice selection of FREE business cards. You pay shipping. A little courage. I promise, with practice, it gets easier.

Again, step away from the computer. And when you do, report back here! Tell us about your successes. Recall your funniest snafus. Let us help you refine your networking techniques to help you land that job faster!

The Government Pay Scale

By Steven Bronsons

Job Vacancy Indonesia, Employee, Vacancy 

Government jobs always score high when compared to any other job. There are lots of people who show a great amount of interest in these government jobs because of the kind of security it offers. Just a year ago the world was struck with recession.

Lots of private companies had to cut down their expenses and as a result of which many people lost their jobs. The craze for the government jobs have increased after this incident. If you are a resident of America then you might be aware of the federal jobs that are so much popular.

The federal government is known to employ at least thousands of people each year. Other than this you will be overwhelmed to learn that 3 million people in America work with the government. There are lots of other benefits that are offered to the government employers.

First of all you might be aware of the government pat scale. Other than the salary they also offer different kinds of insurances as other benefits. This is the reason why people are interested in the government jobs these days.

The government pay scale is usually decided according to the level in which you work. The federal jobs are usually divided into levels and they are known as GS. The levels start from GS1 and can go up to GS15. The salary increases as you go up the level.

Other than the levels there are certain steps present in the level. As you go to up the steps the salary keeps on increasing. The starting salary of the federal government employee is usually 16,000 or even more. There are ten steps in each level.

When you reach step 10 in the first level your salary increases to 20,000 and even more. The federal government pay scale is equally distributed. When you reach the last level your government pay scale increases a lot.

The levels are usually divided according to the skills and qualifications that you have. GS1 level is meant for the entry level jobs. If you can increase your qualification then you can surely go to the top levels present in the federal government jobs. People who are employed in the top levels usually get the research positions.

The government pay scale for them is really high. To understand the federal pay scale you need a lot of reading as well as comprehension. The time you spend in each of the levels will help you learn the job and will also help you make advances in your career.

You need to give at least two to three years time to each of the steps. When you reach step 10 you can think of moving to the next level and hence you pay scale will increase up to a certain extent.

These jobs are very much popular in America. Some of the cities where you can try for these jobs are Colorado, Ohio, Alaska, Oklahoma and many more. To get proper interview calls you must also pay attention to ksa writing.

Jobs Available Online

By bestjobcenter com

Careers , Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy

 

During the past, making an application for a job meant looking thru the classifieds in the local paper. The appearance of the Net has made numerous job sites online making it less complicated for somebody to sign up for work in another state and in even in another country.

It has made the world a smaller place with everything at one’s fingertip and simply a click away. Most job sites will need someone to create an account, fill in certain info and deposit a resume.

These sites typically ask for important info like the person’s name, age, address, contact number and social security number. Other info that’ll be requested are instructional background.

Some firms like somebody with a degree in a certain field or an approved pro to do the job or maybe an individual who has got an advanced qualification.

Work history is also another thing that must be discussed. This contains the job outline and highlights that you have experienced during your career. With the info provided, some of these sites supply a service with a fee that will match your qualifications with jobs that are available and allow you to make an application for that position.

Some even promise to make your resume stand out over other candidates giving that person more preference over others but even that may be a not a warranty that one will get the job.

One also has to say the income the person is receiving both in the present and previous jobs as this is matched with the job the individual wants and the income one wishes.

These sites offer various jobs to folk. It tends to executives and youths who need to work either for full time, part time or on a per project basis. Applying online is not just done thru job sites. Lots of corporations have internet sites that have a section on careers which one can access and check what openings are available.

One simply has to go thru the method of also giving certain info that’s asked for and uploading one’s resume. The first impression companies or headhunters look at is one’s resume.

Given that many folk apply, this often takes these folks a brief period of time to review and screen certain candidates before going to the next segment of being booked and requested an interview.

There are many jobs available in the market. It just takes a little effort on one’s part to sit in front of a P. C. and look for the right job.

Top 10 Super Job Interview Tips

By Kathi MacNaughton

Careers , Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy

It’s a tough job market out there today. And getting the job you want requires more than just a killer resume. In other words, you can’t just sell yourself on paper. You’ve also got to be able to do it in person--in a face-to-face job interview.

Here are a few interview tips to help you make a great impression on the person who interviews you.

1. Market your skills and related experience in the field that you are applying for. Be sure to do it in a way that is positive, but not cocky or aggressive.

2. Research the company before your interview. It’s a great way to know where you would fit into the organization. It also lets the employer know that you really want to be a part of the company.

3. Prepare answers to common interview questions ahead of time, and practice saying them, so you aren’t stumped during the interview.

4. Dress for success, in the manner you would dress for the position you’re seeking.

5. Bring a list of your own questions with you in a folder with the company’s name on it, so that you don’t forget them. You should keep your extra resumes in there too.

6. Be a good listener and focus. Some job seekers talk too much during interviews.

7. Be prepared to describe your weaknesses as strengths. For example, saying that you are overenthusiastic about performing at your best.

8. Make eye contact with your interviewer.

9. Don’t volunteer your personal opinions to your interviewer about any subjects unless you are asked.

10. Try to establish a good rapport with your interviewer. Be casual but professional, and most importantly BE YOURSELF! Take the time to implement these interview tips before your next job hunt. It'll give you a leg up on your competition!

8 Tips for Keeping Your Staff Happy

by articlesbase com

Careers , Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy

A happy staff makes for happy patients, and happy patients means more business. You will also find that employees are more productive, and you will be more likely to retain them, which will save you the time and cost of training new workers. Putting a little more time and effort into keeping everyone happy is a win-win!

1. Provide training.  When a new staff member starts, take the time to show them the ropes. Even if they've done the job before, it may be valuable for them to "shadow" someone for a day or two to learn the policies and procedures specific to your practice. But don't stop the training there. Providing employees with opportunities to grow can make them feel their career is moving forward. Check out seminars, trade shows, and other learning opportunities in your area. If you can't afford formal classes, consider having employees within the company share their knowledge with the rest of the staff. 

2. Show your appreciation.  Make a point to praise your employees at least once a day. You'll be surprised how much of a difference it makes when people feel recognized for their efforts. Bonuses, parties, and other special perks are other ways to show your appreciation. You can award the staff for referring new patients or doing well on the job.

3. Communicate with your staff.  If they don't get their information from you, they'll get it from the practice's rumor mill. Keep such speculation at bay by being open and honest about what's happening in the practice. You should also hold regular staff meetings to promote problem solving, share news, and recognize accomplishments. Make it clear year-round that you have an "open door" policy, so employees feel like they can come to you with problems or their ideas for improving things.

4. Conduct evaluations.  Twice a year is a good rule of thumb. In your feedback, be sure to point to the areas where the worker is excelling. If an employee has problem areas, be constructive in your criticism: provide advice on how to improve. It's also a good idea to let the staff evaluate you, so you can find new ways to meet their needs and help the practice run more smoothly.

5. Follow your own policies.  If you set a rule, stick to it – for yourself and others. This will help others to take you more seriously, and cut down on resentment about preferential treatment.

6. Be positive.  Don't complain about patients or other workers in front of your staff. Doing so can foster a negative environment. Need to vent? Save it for your friends and family. If you have a problem with someone's work, speak to them in private.

7. Socialize.  If you have a personal relationship with someone, it's easier to communicate with them. Throw company parties to foster this environment. They don't need to be fancy. You can even make it a potluck!

8. Be flexible.  If you respect the fact that your staff has a life outside of the office, your practice will be more likely to retain employees. It doesn't mean you have to give in to every request made by a staff member, but within reason, make compromises to ensure that they are able to comfortably balance their home and work life. Avoid asking your staff to put in long hours or overtime when possible.

9 Job Search Tips for New Graduates

By Kathy Kristof

Careers , Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy

College graduation season is set to launch millions of youthful job seekers into an already depressed employment market. If you’re among the masses, realize that preparation is key. Here’s what you need to do to get hired.

1. Edit your profile. Those drunken party photos might have impressed your Facebook friends, but now they could dissuade a prospective employer from hiring you, says Stephen Miles, vice chairman of executive search firm Heidrick & Struggles and co-author of Your Career Game. Recruiters do extensive web searches on people they intend to hire, including checking social media sites like Facebook, MySpace and Twitter. If you’ve posted compromising photos or a stupid status update (i.e. Nice day. I think I’ll call in sick and go to the beach…) it could cost you a job. Get rid of it.

2. Do your homework. Don’t just figure that you can post a resume on monster.com and find work, says Janice Bryant Howroyd, CEO of staffing company AppleOne. You ought to study all aspects of your chosen field and seek information about the companies doing business in that area. Go to the company web sites and see if they’re posting open positions, too. If you send a resume, tailor it specifically to the job you’re seeking, Howroyd suggests.

3. Prepare to relocate. Live in a city where the job prospects are bleak? You can vastly increase your chance of getting work by seeking employment in other zip codes. The folks at job search site Indeed.com recently came up with a list of the best and worst cities to find work.

4. Think small. Many graduates focus on big, brand-name companies, but it’s the smaller and mid-sized companies that are doing most of the hiring now, Howroyd says. Taking jobs that “no one wants” is often an opportunity that no one else sees, adds Nathan Bennett, professor of management at Georgia Tech and the other co-author of Your Career Game. A first job is an opportunity to get experience. The smaller the company, the thinner the staff, the more likely you are to learn a wide array of skills.

5. Set targets. Set goals every day for either sending out a set number of resumes; filling out a set number of applications or finding a set number of new opportunities. Don’t hit the beach until you’ve hit your goal. You can’t change the job market, but you can determine how hard you try. Trying harder than your peers makes you the one most likely to get work.

6. Be persistent. If you go to an interview and don’t hear from the employer, follow up with a phone call. If they gave the job to another person, don’t be angry — be interested. Politely ask the hiring manager if he or she can tell you whether there was something that the other person did that particularly impressed them or something that you did wrong. If your approach is respectful and aimed at learning (rather than second-guessing their actions), they’re likely to help you better position yourself for the next interview. And if they tell you that you were fine, the other person was just more qualified, don’t be shy about asking them to keep you in mind for the next opportunity. If you don’t have a job in three or four months, call again and see if anything has opened up.

7. Work your network. Ask your friends, your parents, your parents’ friends, if they know of anything that would suit you. Check in with your college career office and attend their alumni functions. When there are hundreds of people applying for a given job, a personal referral can make your application stand out.

8. Be a temp. Some companies may not be willing to hire permanent full-time staff, but need help. You can sign up with a temporary company, like AppleOne, that will send you out on a daily basis to these companies. The benefits: You earn money; you get to know employers and employers get to know you.

9. Don’t despair. It’s a rotten job market, so it could take time to get work. And when you do get work, it may not be the ‘perfect job’ that you envisioned. Keep a good attitude and don’t let it get to you. Every job — even a nightmare job — is experience on your resume and a potential reference for a new employer. Do you best no matter where you end up working, and chances are good that you’ll get a better job in no time.

Nine Tips For Young People Starting Careers

By getrichslowly org



Careers , Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy

I asked five managers I’ve known over the years and my favorite workplace expert what behaviors and attitudes in their eyes mark a new recruit as promising and promotion-worthy.

The following attributes will help you succeed:

• Be willing to ask for help, but be able to take charge. Employers like for employees to ask questions. It’s better to admit you need help than to fumble blindly. But once you’ve been pointed in the right direction, take charge. And if you know what you’re doing, be proactive. “One of the biggest mistakes new recruits can make…is to assume that when they have nothing to do that there is nothing to do.”
• Know the boss. Understand what she needs. If you can learn what your boss values, what will help her be successful, then your success will follow. Know how she operates and use this to guide your actions.
• Cultivate good relationships. You can be the best at what you do, but if you’re a jerk, you’re not going to get the promotions. Be easy-going. Be respectful. Be well-groomed. Don’t get involved in office politics.
• Don’t watch the clock. “If you have to stay a little late to meet a deadline or pull some hours on a weekend without being asked, it shows your commitment.” If you go the extra mile, you’ll be noticed.
• Know when to go. Most of the career advice I’ve read says the same thing: stay in a position until you’ve got as much from it as you can. Then make a shift to something new, either in the same company or with a new one. It’s important to continue to grow. When that’s no longer possible, it’s time to move on.

I think this is excellent advice. But as an employer, I think there are additional attributes that can help you get ahead.

• Don’t treat the job like a chore. Many young people in their first real jobs act as if they’re in an adversarial relationship with their employer. This is counterproductive. An “us vs. them” mentality helps nobody. Think “win-win”. If you’re in a shitty job where the corporate culture fosters adversity, then get out. That’s not a career. That’s a life in purgatory.
• Think like your employer. If you were in his place, what would you value in an employee? An excellent way to do this is to skim material he may be reading. You might, for example, read a list of seven characteristics of highly effective employees written for managers looking to make hires, instead of this list of nine skills for employees looking to get hired!
• Behave professionally. Don’t bad-mouth your company to clients. Don’t tell off-color stories. Don’t engage in behavior that’s embarrassing to the company. This is common-sense stuff, but you’d be surprised at how many young people damage their careers by behaving in an unprofessional manner.
• Be flexible — adapt to the demands of the job. There’s nothing more frustrating than employee who grouses, “That’s not my job.” Especially in a small business, your job is whatever your boss asks you to do. Sometimes you’ll need to do tasks that fall outside your job description. Adapt to the situation. Be willing to think outside the box. Employers love this.

Your career is one of your most valuable assets — it’s a regular, reliable source of money. Handle it with care.

23 Ways to be Happy at Work: #4 - Work Can be Play

Do you have fun at work?

by Lori Grant

Careers , Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy

Work can be fun? Really?!?

Yes, it can be. If you think about it, fun is an activity that’s enjoyable or amusing. Surely, there’s something at work that’s fun for you. In my last job, my executive team meetings were always fun. Yes, there were some meetings that were stressful. But most of the time, I enjoyed the company of the team. I admired each member’s contribution, wondering why we worked so well together. Of course, there were a few bumps along the way, but that’s to be expected.

I always looked forward to Friday mornings for this 10:00 am meeting. What do I miss the most? The camaraderie with my colleagues. I had the most fun when we were brainstorming or creativity thinking our way out of problems. The second thing I most fun thing I miss? Working with my direct reports as I shared my experiences and knowledge with them on projects that relied on my product marketing background. 

List the reasons why work is play for you

Make a list of the reasons why work is play for you at your current job. Is it because you enjoy working with your teammates? What aspects of your job is play to you? Is it because of the product you manage or the clients you get to work with? Is it fun because of the people or tasks? How can you do more of the same, allowing you to have more fun at work? Are there some aspects that feel more like play than work? 

List the reasons why work isn’t play for you

Make a list of the reasons why work isn’t play for you, like an unproductive weekly department meeting or a 1-on-1 meeting with your boss. Having a hard time coming up with fun things at your job? What can you do to make changes? Or is it the job that you’re ready to quit? Try to figure out how to make work play; it’s one simple step toward being happier at work

The 23 Ways to be Happy at Work series reflects on 23 ways to help you reflect about the course of your career. After deciding to identify what made me happy at work, my list became this list. Here the are the drivers to my happiness at work that may help you manage your career:

1. Work by your values
2. Love your work, love your career
3. Decide what makes you happy in your job
4. Work can be play
5. Know the big picture
6. Walk in your boss’ shoes
7. What is the problem?
8. Try the same old thing to get different results
9. Try something new to get different results
10. List your accomplishments
11. Don’t gossip
12. Don’t react
13. Don’t worry
14. Don’t be unhealthy
15. Read up
16. Read It
17. Share knowledge
18. Mend fences
19. Be a squirrel
20. Change your workspace
21. Give yourself a gift
22. Let it go
23. Change this!

Family And Career: Tips For Women On Career Success

By Dr. LeslieBeth Wish

Careers , Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy

When Laurel’s boss overlooked her for a promotion, she was stunned. She had received high praise for her market analyses and team cooperation and was sure she’d be selected for a major project.

Tip #1: Get Feedback
Rather than wallow in disappointment, Laurel sought from her boss an assessment of her strengths and weaknesses.

Tip#2: Arrange a Follow Up Plan and Appointment
It was difficult for Laurel to hear an honest appraisal, but she promised her boss that she would address her weaknesses. She asked him about a time frame, and he said to come back in six months with reviews from co-workers and supervisors.

Tip#3: Value Your Past Performance
The boss and team leaders saw Laurel’s strengths as cooperation, enthusiasm and fairness. She encouraged comments from less active team members, mentioned the value of each person’s contribution and was always upbeat. Laurel avoided self-deprecation by reminding herself that these qualities were still vital to any team.

Tip#4: Learn about Gender Differences in Career Success
Laurel researched gender differences in leadership styles of men and women. Women tend to be more democratic, inclusive and communal. They are more concerned about fairness, interpersonal relationships on teams and on-going reward to others for their good performances. Women favor collaboration and are often content to just be part of a great effort or project.

Sometimes, these valuable qualities impede decisiveness, task- and detailed-orientation and follow up and follow through. Yet, women can also inspire, serve, mentor and see the big picture for the future.

Men tend to be more autocratic, direct in their communication and task-oriented. Execution and success are more important than fairness or inclusiveness. Team-building exists to get the job done. Pleasure derives from success rather than collaboration.

These valuable qualities of men can often overshadow critical skills in listening, patience, brainstorming and welcoming conflicting ideas.

Tip#5: Set Personal Improvement Goals to Forge a Personal Style
Laurel now understood she needed to make decisions and promote and implement them. To address her weaknesses of inattention to task detail and follow through, Laurel added an implementation plan to each of her ideas, including follow up and follow through schedules. She melded her cooperative style with task and detail abilities.

Tip #6: Find a Mentor
Laurel learned that mentors can serve as educators, role models and supporters. She asked a woman executive from another department to help her. After six months, this mentor’s report, in conjunction with other feedback, convinced Laurel’s boss to put her on the important projects.

How to Get Started on Your Resume: A Five-Step Primer for Established Job-seekers and Career-Changers

by Katharine Hansen, Ph.D.

Careers , Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy

As an established job-seeker, you probably have a resume. Thus, getting started on the resume that will take you to the next rung in your career ladder may be a simple matter of spiffing up your existing document using guidelines in this article and many other resume resources on Quintessential Careers.

But some established job-seekers do have to start from square one. I sometimes hear from job-seekers that they have been recruited into most of their jobs or obtained them through networking and have not needed a resume. Or they have not needed one in such a long time that the resume they have is quite outdated.

Most people find the idea of creating a resume overwhelming. Even the notion of revamping an existing resume can be daunting.

This article takes you through the steps to getting started on your resume and provides a refresher if you have a resume that needs updating and polishing.

Step 1: Consider whether you really want to tackle your resume on your own

Consider hiring a professional resume writer. An investment in a professionally crafted resume can pay off big time. There's no shame in hiring a professional resume writer. You hire doctors, lawyers, financial advisers, and tax consultants when you lack the expertise in those areas, so why should resume-writing be different? Many employers and even more recruiters actually encourage the idea of professionally written resumes because hiring managers want to obtain your information in a reader-friendly form that clearly tells how you can benefit the organization.

See our article Why Hire a Professional Resume Writer?.

Step 2: Review resume samples to get ideas for wording, layout, and current resume trends.

If you decide to take on your resume without professional help, looking at sample resumes will give you ideas that you may want to apply to your own document. For content, you'll want to review resumes in your own and similar professions, but resumes for other occupations can offer ideas for resume organization and layout.

By looking at samples, you'll get a sense for the sections that are typically included on a resume and how those sections are organized. You'll see how resume bullet points are worded. You'll get ideas for distinctive resume designs that will help you stand out.

You can find samples in many resume books, all over the Internet, and of course, here at Quintessential Careers. See our resume samples here.

Step 3: Prepare to craft your resume by brainstorming and gathering information.

The resume-preparation step comprises several sub-steps:

1. Determine the focus of your resume. What kind of job or jobs will you be targeting? Your resume must target your desired career goal with precision. Job-seekers tend to forget that employers review resumes extremely quickly -- often in just a few seconds. An employer taking such a quick glance should be able to immediately grasp what you want to do and have a sense of the value you can contribute to the organization. Your resume must focus on key strengths that position you to meet a specific need and target specific jobs/employers. In other words, employers give little consideration to one-size-fits-all resumes that aren't focused on a job's specific requirements.

2. Decide whether you will need multiple versions of your resume in your quest to target different types of jobs. Since specifically targeted resumes are much more effective that "general" resumes, you may need more than one resume if you are open to more than one type of job. At the very least, you'll want to tweak and customize your boilerplate resume for each job you apply for. See our Cover Letter and Resume Customization Worksheet. You may also need more than one resume format. While chronological resumes are the strong preference of most hiring decision-makers, you may be in a situation in which a chrono-functional resume would be more effective -- or you may want to experiment with both formats. Read our article What Resume Format is Best for You?

3. Identify the audience for your resume. Will it go primarily to recruiters? Directly to hiring managers? Will you use it mostly for networking and career fairs? Each audience will require small tweaks in your resume presentation. For example, you'll probably want to stick to one page for networking and career fairs. For recruiters, provide substantial information about each organization you worked for and your reporting relationships. Research the preferences of your target audience.

4. Brainstorm your accomplishments and results. Your resume must -- with a future-oriented flavor -- emphasize results, outcomes, and career-defining performance indicators. Using numbers, context, and meaningful metrics (e.g., previous years' performance, competitors, counterparts, forecasts/projections/quotas, industry trends), the resume must paint a picture of you in action -- meeting needs/challenges, solving problems, impacting the company's big picture, growing the business, enhancing revenue, and driving profits. Concrete, measurable accomplishments are the points that really help sell you to an employer -- much more so than everyday job duties. If you can achieve the important step of identifying your accomplishments, the rest will fall into place as you work through the remainder of this article. Read our article For Job-Hunting Success: Track and Leverage Your Accomplishments and use our Job-Seeker Accomplishments Worksheet to help.

5. Compile your employment data. For the experience section of your resume, you'll need the name of each employer, location (city and state), and dates of employment (starting and ending month and year). Resist the temptation to refer to employer-supplied job descriptions in composing your resume; job-description language is the antithesis of accomplishments-rich verbiage that makes a resume effective.

6. Develop a branding message that you will execute not only in your resume, but also in all your other job-search communications. Today's resume communicates a brand relevant to targeted employers. The branding expressed in your resume captures your career identity, authenticity, passion, essence, and image. "Branding is... best defined as a promise," says my partner, Randall Hansen, founder of Quintessential Careers,"... a promise of the value of the product… a promise that the product is better than all the competing products… a promise that must be delivered to be successful. Branding is the combination of tangible and intangible characteristics that make a brand unique. Branding is developing an image -- with results to match." If you have not already developed a personal brand for your job search, do so as you prepare to craft your resume. See our article Branding Your Resume and our branding resources.

Step 4: Just do it. Get words on paper.

Sometimes the best way to get started on your resume is to just start writing in a Word or text document (Notepad or WordPad, for example). Just jot down your version of the typical components of a resume (that you've seen in the samples you've reviewed) and worry about formatting, fine-tuning, and polishing later.

Also consider developing the components of your resume through our worksheets:

* Keywords Worksheet -- use this worksheet to help identify keywords for use in your resume and cover letter. These keywords will likely vary according to job/type of job you are seeking.
* Resume Components Worksheet -- a critical worksheet to help you develop every aspect of your resume. Whether you're starting your resume from scratch or just tweaking an existing document, use this worksheet to make your resume sparkle.
* Resume Professional Profile/Qualifications Summary Worksheet -- use this worksheet to help you develop bullet points for this very important resume section. You may want to tweak the section slightly for each job/type of job you apply for. (Not aware of this section of a resume? Check out: Fundamentals of a Good Chronological Resume.)
* Especially vital for career-changers is our Transferable Skills Worksheet -- use this worksheet to develop lists of skills and examples of how you've used them. Determine which skills are transferable and applicable to each job/type of job you plan to apply for, and plan how to portray those skills in your resume and cover letter.

Now, put all the components together, using the organizational and layout models you've admired in the samples you've reviewed. As you'll note in most sample, the majority of items on a resume are presented as bullet points, and most of those bullet points kick off with powerful action verbs. See a list of sample verbs here and samples of action verbs in use here.

Step 5: Edit, proofread, and polish your resume.

Edit your resume to make sure the wording is the best it can be. Cut out all unnecessary words. Ensure that each bullet point packs a punch.

Typos, misspellings, missing words, and weak grammar can kill all your good efforts in constructing your resume. Proofread, and then put your resume down for a while before proofing again. A good technique for catching errors you would not otherwise notice is to read your resume from the bottom up. Then ask friends or family to proof it for you.

How does your resume look? Is it pleasing to the eye? Is the type size and font easily readable? Can the reader's eye easily follow the resume's organization? Are the margins wide enough? These are all aspects of polishing your resume.

Polishing can also include getting the opinion of others. Enlist members of your network (especially those who share your profession) to read your resume with an eye toward answering the question, "If you were hiring for the type of job I seek, how would you respond to this resume?" You can also self-critique your resume using our Resume Critique Worksheet. Finally, consider having your resume critiqued by a professional resume writer. Resume critiques are usually quite inexpensive or even free because resume writers use them as tools to promote their resume-writing services.

Finally, consider file formats (beyond the standard Word .doc) that you may need for your resume -- such as ASCII text, HTML, or PDF. See our article Your E-Resume's File Format Aligns with its Delivery Method.

Final Thoughts
Don't forget all the other components of your job search as you craft your resume.

A resume is an important part of your job search, but it's far from the only component. Remember that you'll also need a cover letter for each job you apply for and a references sheet separate from your resume. You may want both a print and an online career portfolio. You'll also want to shore up your network and prepare for interviews.