Hospitals require employees from many of these professions to continue to provide care and service to patients. As people continue to join the ranks of the healthcare industry, it is therefore popular to try to determine the best hospitals to work for. Unfortunately, not all hospitals are equal in terms of working conditions. To find the best hospitals to work for, follow some of these simple tips:

• Ask your educators 
  Almost all of the opportunities in the healthcare industry require some advanced training after high school. When you are trying to find the best hospitals to work for in your area, email a former professor or instructor. These health educators are likely to be aware of local reputations and the best hospitals to work for. Additionally, you may be able to get valuable contact information from your former professors that can get you a leg up in the best hospitals. It never hurts to network.
  
• Word of mouth 
  Talk to current colleagues or friends who also work in the healthcare industry. They may know the best hospitals to work for through previous experience. More importantly, your associates may know where you may not want to work, which can be just as valuable.
  
• Contact a professional organization
  There are many local and national organizations devoted to helping healthcare professionals. If you know someone in one of these professional organizations, contact them for advice about which hospitals are the best to work for.
  
• Talk to a patient
  If you have friends or family members who have had to spend time in a hospital, they can provide valuable information about how that hospital operates. Patients pay attention to their healthcare staff. They likely noticed if nurses or medical assistants, for example, were happy and relaxed or stressed and overworked.

Find more Healthcare Jobs at Jobs.net

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100 Best Hospitals to Work ForEmployment and Job Top ListsWork Part-Time and Get Great Benefits Too

It is no secret that how you look has everything to do with the first impression you make. A first impression is made in the first 27 seconds. If you are too formal in your appearance, you might give the impression of being rigid and stuffy. If you are too casual, you may send the signal that you do not take the interview or the job very seriously.

Begin by talking to employees of your potential new employer and find out what the dress code is and how seriously management takes it. If you can’t find out this information, you should choose clothing that is professional in the impression it gives.

If you do not already own clothing that will work on an interview, you should go to a store where you can get good advice from the sales person. Be prepared to have the clothes tailored. No human being completely fits in clothes that are off the rack. To make the best impression the clothes must be altered to fit and accent your best features.

The following ideas can never be neglected:

• Look clean and neat. Make sure that your hair is done appropriately. Women - do not wear wild hairdo’s Men - get a trim of head and facial hair.
• Do not wear a perfume or cologne as many people are allergic. Bathing with a good quality bath soap will leave a light scent. You will be nervous and a gentle scent can mask the perspiring you may be doing. An unscented antiperspirant can be used.
• Cover any tattoos and avoid gaudy jewelry. Definitely limit pierced jewelry to ears only. Do not wear nose or tongue jewelry

MEN

• Wear a suit or sport jacket with color coordinated trousers
• The color should be neutral or dark - blue, black or gray is best
• Wear a tie - even if you will never wear one after you get the job
• Shoes should be leather - clean and polished - black is best
• Make sure your nails are trimmed and that they are clean.

WOMEN

• Wear a classic suit or a simple dress with a jacket. This is not a time to be provocative or sexy. Some appropriate colors are navy blue, black, dark green, dark red, burgundy, or gray.
• Dress in a higher style that the position calls for but do not attempt to out dress everyone there.
• Avoid wearing clothes that are tight, revealing or trendy. It may be the very latest fashion but it will not impress the interviewer.
• Fingernails should be trimmed to a length that doesn’t leave an observer wondering how you keep from stabbing yourself. The polish should be closer to a color your mom might wear than to a color that your kid sister would go for.

Even after you are successful in getting the job, you should continue to pay attention to your wardrobe. Interviewing for that first job is only the beginning in the role clothing will play in your career.

You should regularly add pieces made of high quality, long wearing fabrics. It is best to buy separates that you can mix and match with the pieces that you already own. Each piece you buy adds to the variety of looks you can achieve. You may ask why this is important? The reason is that even after you have the job you sought, you might like to be considered for advancement and promotion. The impression you leave on the job every day will be added to your performance when the boss looks around for someone to promote.

Jane Harvey is a Wardrobe Consultant from Tucson, AZ. She is dedicated to assisting her clients to maximize their wardrobe with high quality fashions that help them achieve their goals.

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How do I prepare for a job interview?Ace Interviews - Learn how to market yourself effectivelyInterviewing

The Labor Department recently released a notice titled “The Phase Out of America’s Job Bank” that explained the job search site would soon be discontinued. Essentially, there were four reasons for the end to America’s Job Bank. Fortunately for America’s many job seekers, employment search sites like Government.Jobs.Net provide the same services and offer more employment opportunities.

1. The advent of the job search industry and sites like Jobs.net Government Jobs and EmploymentSpot.com have rendered America’s Job Bank obsolete.

2. The expense of maintaining America’s Job Bank was costing taxpayers almost $30 million per year. The site cost $12 million per year alone in maintenance costs, said the Labor Department.

3. America’s Job Bank was difficult to use, both for employers and job seekers.

4. The job search industry’s evolving technology quickly made America’s Job Bank outdated.

Job seekers who looked to America’s Job Bank for government employment and opportunities in the public sector need fear not, as other sites provide the same services. Contrary to some myths, sites like Government.Jobs.net are convenient and offer job seekers the services of America’s Job Bank for the same price: nothing.

Job seekers across the country should acknowledge the ground-breaking America’s Job Bank for spawning the $2 billion job search industry. Job seekers continue to have plenty of options as they search for employment opportunities and should consult job banks in the private sector for job postings and open positions in their region.

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Wanted: Bank TellersAmerica’s Best Graduate SchoolsFirst things first

As companies face huge lawsuits for their employees’ criminal actions, major changes have occurred within the hiring community. Now more than ever, background checks have become one of the most important parts of the hiring process in firms of all sizes. Pre-checking your background before a potential employer does will give you a major advantage over other candidates.

In general, background checks cover an average of 7 years (depending on the state); however, a simple error could destroy your employment future.

So what’s in your background check?

Potential employers commonly verify your Social Security number, address history, employment history, criminal records (federal, state, and/or county), civil records, driving records and education.

• Remember that speeding ticket?
• Are your past employment dates accurate?
• Were you engaged in a lawsuit of any kind?
• How about that time you got ticketed for underage drinking at a frat party?
• Did your university include all of your education information on your record?
• Could your information get mixed up someone else who has the same or a similar name?

Think you’re safe?

Even if you are the most qualified of candidates, error on your background check could potentially cost you your dream job. By independently checking your background history report, you have the ability to clear up any discrepancies before potential employers run your background check.

In addition, showing potential employers you’ve already been screened allows them to feel confident you’re a motivated candidate who is willing to take initiative in his or her own future. Background check in hand, you will save the potential employer time and money, thus giving you an advantage from the very beginning.

Get Checked!

Online services such as CareerBuilder.com’s SureCheck Background Check allows you to check your background electronically and instantly (employment history and education verification takes a little longer). In the event of any inaccuracies, the SureCheck support team will assist you with correcting errors and help you understand your results accurately.

Additionally, SureCheck values your personal safety and security taking every precaution necessary to guarantee your privacy. You can even use an abbreviated background check online profiles where potential employers can request a detailed report directly from you.

What are you waiting for? Get checked today>>

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Twenty questionsAfter a layoffDifferentiate Yourself in the Job Market through Freelance

All too often the job seeker is focused on what he or she is looking for in a job (i.e. income, benefits, location, function, responsibilities, title, stature, drive time, industry, and corporate culture). On the other hand, hiring executives have an entirely different set of standards for what they are seeking in candidates. If you, as a job seeker, fail to recognize the difference, you will be history in terms of being the candidate of choice.

Let’s explore the minds of decision makers and find their hot buttons. When you focus your search on these factors through your resume (or resume portfolio, see my article titled Burn Your Resume) and through your interviews, you are more likely to become the standard by which all other candidates will be measured.

Employer hot buttons:

1. Ability to do the Job. Sounds simple enough, but you would be amazed how many people apply for jobs for which they are not qualified. Before the decision makers dig deep into a candidate’s background, or invite him or her in for an interview, they must first confirm this very basic criteria. Establish your ability through your resume or resume portfolio by placing your emphasis on accomplishments, results performance and insights into emerging trends, opportunities and challenges.
2. Initiative. Unless you are entry level, most decision makers are looking for someone who can "hit the ground running." They do not want a long learning curve that requires costly training and where the new hire cannot produce quick results. Today’s decision makers have very little patience. Demonstrate how you quickly identified a problem or need project, initiated an action plan, and produced bottom-line results.
3. Job Growth. Decision makers look for people who go beyond their defined "job description." Show that you are adaptive and willing to take on additional responsibility and that you will go the extra mile to achieve success. You don’t want to be perceived as someone who is stuck in the comfort zone and always content with the status quo.
4. Self-Confidence. Decision makers want to know that they can totally put their trust in you to perform the job and produce the desired results. They develop this trust by seeing your confidence. Confidence can be displayed in numerous ways. Here are just a few of the things that decision makers look for: A) Speak with authority. Use phrases like "I can," "I will," and "I know." Avoid phases like "I think," "In my opinion," and "I feel that." B) Demonstrate a commanding presence by your appearance, posture, eye contact, and body language. C) Show your track record of ongoing success. Decision makers will not have confidence in you if they can only see a few accomplishments scattered over several years.
5. Leadership. Leadership is not reserved for senior executives or managers. For example, a janitor can show leadership by finding a better way to do his/her job, by setting a great example for his/her peers, or by finding ways to cut costs through more effective cleaning equipment or a new supplier for less expensive cleaning materials. Leadership is a rare commodity. Show decision makers that you have the courage to take a leadership role, regardless of your level or function.
6. Compatibility. Much to the regret of some people, decision makers look for a certain amount of conformity. This does not mean you must be the quintessential "Dilbert." Rather, organizations seek people whose personality style and behavior match the requirements of the job and the corporate culture. For example, we all know about the employee who is never happy with anything, is a continual whiner, and always finds fault with everyone else. During your interviews, avoid criticizing your former employer or placing blame on others for why things didn’t get done. Always demonstrate your positive mental attitude (PMA).
7. Attitude. OK, we wrapped up number six by mentioning your PMA. Let’s build on that. If you want to be the standard by which all others are measured, then walk in the door with a high energy level, tons of enthusiasm, a zest for living, and the determination to be the very best at whatever you do. Enthusiasm is infectious. Others feed on it. It is motivating and drives others to higher levels of productivity and success. Show your enthusiasm every chance you get and you dramatically increase your chances of being hired.
8. Social Skills/Interests/Involvement. In today’s business world, it seems that professional courtesy and conduct are from another era. You can never say please and thank you enough. Give credit and praise to others. During your interview talk about the team’s performance and the contribution that everyone else brought to your projects or your job. Show your interest in what others were working on and how you were willing to help. Show your involvement in organization activities—both social and professional.
9. Integrity. Over the past few years we have witnessed the tragic abuse of authority and total lack of integrity by many of our nation’s top senior level executives. Many have gone to jail and others will probably soon follow. Needless to say, this is a powerful message to everyone. Demonstrate your uncompromising integrity, professional ethics and personal morals. If a decision maker wants you to "wink" at laws or professional conduct, you don’t want to work for that company.
10. Communication Skills. We can’t ever communicate too much. I admit that companies often have too many meetings, but I don’t equate those meetings to communication. A good communicator possesses outstanding written and oral skills and knows how to use them effectively. Demonstrate to the decision maker how you continually use communication skills to achieve your goals.

There is a lot of information here to absorb and it is difficult to hit all of these hot buttons through your resume and interviews. But by being aware of these hot buttons you can consciously try to touch on as many as possible. Instead of focusing on what you want, focus on what the employer wants and you will land that next job.

Don Straits, CEO and Dragon Slayer, Corporate Warriors

Don is recognized as a nationwide authority on contemporary job search strategies and technologies for executives. His organization produces world-class online multi-media resume portfolios and provides out-of-the-box coaching for his/her clients. Don can be contacted at don@corporatewarriors.com or (916) 630-4545. Website: www.corporatewarriors.com.

© Copyright 2003 Don Straits. All rights reserved. This information is strictly for personal use. Any other use of this material is prohibited by law unless permission is otherwise granted in writing by the copyright holder.

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e-ApplicantsCover letter closerResume on file

You’ve got the degree and the resume. What more do you need?
You need to stand out. Be different — a commodity that your prospective employer can’t do without. Learn what your employer is looking for, then market yourself appropriately. The trick is to stay true to your capabilities and skills, but rise above the crowd.

WetFeet.com is a great place to hone your understanding of various professions. Employers look for people who will fit in, and this site’s Real People Profiles bring you right into the mindset of industry professionals. A better understanding of day-to-day happenings will help you position yourself for prospective employer’s needs. Another site to explore is Krislyn’s Strictly Business Site.


Not sure which profession is for you? Check out the Keirsey Temperament Sorter for a statistical analysis of your personality. It may open the door to new ideas about your capabilities and help you make a more informed decision.

Now that you’ve got a tab on your dream industry, move in for the kill. Vault.com hosts the Electronic Watercooler, where you (and your peers) can post thoughts and questions on a specific company. After you’ve staked out a target employer, you should stop by to get into the groove of a company’s culture.

First impressions do count. Your cover letter has to be the one that doesn’t get tossed aside and your resume must capture attention. The interview is where you really get to shine. Get started on the knock ‘em dead resume at The Best Resumes on the Net. To prepare for the interview, visit the Careers section of the Wall Street Journal.

WSJ Careers is a great place to get into the swing of corporate culture. The most valuable advice comes out of the Networking Effectively section. The best career lead could be at your next social gathering. Can’t get enough of schmoozing? Yahoo! offers a huge list of professional associations you can join to meet others in your trade or to learn more about the industry.

Follow-up is important, whether it’s a thank you letter after an interview or an e-mail to someone you may have met. Again, it all comes down to standing out in the crowd.

   — D.K.

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How much am I worth on the job market?InterviewingWhat Employers Want

Many people pass by help wanted advertisements on their daily commutes or web browsing without taking notice. Not everyone who has access to posted job openings pays attention to them, which may be to that person’s detriment. Though you can keep your attention on your overall career objectives, some of these reasons may persuade you to also take note of unexpected opportunities:

1. Reentering the Work Force

For people who have taken time off, for example, to raise children, reentering the work force can be an intimidating task. Before diving into the job postings in the help wanted section, consider your boundaries and desired career objectives. Determine how you feel about a range of possible positions within your chosen field, from “ideal” to “acceptable.” Being realistic can aid you in reestablishing the career you put on hold.

2. Unemployment

The victims of layoffs and lost jobs should begin the employment search anew by refocusing their energies on a career path they may not have considered otherwise. Use the old adage that “every cloud has a silver lining” to find a better position. The next “help wanted” ad you see may be the silver lining.

3. It’s Your Dream Job

Some of the top dream jobs include Ice Cream Creator, Video Game Designer, Brew Master, Toy Creator, and Comic Book Guru. These jobs certainly would be ideal, but if finding one of these ads in the “help wanted” section seems difficult, broaden the dream. Perhaps your dream job could also include work in the non profit sector, work as a writer or illustrator, or working with young people. These careers may be more accessible (and easier to find) in the help wanted ads.

4. More Money

Obviously, working the same hours for increased pay offers incentive to most people to apply to a help wanted advertisement. Receiving a paycheck is, after all, why the majority of people work at all. Perusing the”help wanted” section on occasion to check for jobs with better benefits or more money could certainly be beneficial.

5. Better Hours

Not all jobs fit conveniently between the hours of nine and five. Especially for workers new to their careers or companies, long hours may be required. Working until late in the evening on occasion may not be a problem, but consistent expectations of extended hours may hurt the time normally reserved for family or recreational activities. If the hours of a current position are inconvenient or unreasonable, responding to a help wanted ad may be the only feasible option.

6. Transitioning to a New Career

Few people have only one career. For example, people from nearly every profession eventually transition to a university setting in order to teach and educate others about their past career experience. Look for new opportunities throughout your career. Your past experience may be your biggest asset in switching gears and transitioning to a completely new career path. The right help wanted ad could inspire you to consider a career transition.

7. Better Company

If you dislike your office environment, coworkers, or supervisor, you could be much more likely to respond to a help wanted ad. Kate Lorenz, editor at CareerBuilder.com, quotes experts Katherine Crowley and Kathi Elster, who say that to handle”harmful colleagues” you should”unhook” from them physically, mentally, and verbally. If techniques such as this fail, looking to the help wanted ads may be the next step. After all, you cannot “unhook” from everyone you work with.

8. Searching for Temporary Employment

The spring months bring not only April showers and May flowers, but also a burst of young students, in both high school and college, looking for summer employment. These job seekers require flexible hours for the summer in order to make money (and appease mom and dad) before classes begin again. In this season of job hunting, popular help wanted ads may include employment opportunities that require little or no experience, as they are currently in hot demand. Popular summer jobs include life guarding, baby sitting for younger children, and working in seasonal positions like landscaping or construction.

9. Improved Health

Working in an office and sitting at a desk all day may not be ideal for everyone, and could be harmful to your health. Especially for adults busy with family life and children after work, getting exercise during your off hours or busy weekends may not be convenient or possible. Although it may seem like a drastic switch, looking for a different position that allows you to work outside or in a more active environment may help your health and improve your life.

10. Additional Education

Going back to school can provide not only educational benefits but inspire new careers in many individuals. Taking elective classes in unknown subjects can also spur interest in jobs and careers that were not previously considered. Take the time to investigate uncommon opportunities in the help wanted section after receiving your degree.

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Less Experience
Great Jobs for 13 14 15 and 16 year olds

• Baby Sitting Caring for younger children for a few hours while their parents are out is a great way to get experience and build positive contacts. The drawback to baby sitting is that CPR certification and/or official training in child care classes may be desired by some parents. Check with the local Red Cross or YMCA to find a local baby sitting class.
• Pet Sitting or Dog Walking Taking care of animals is another great way to build a contact base for later, more formal employment. Also, caring for pets is often less work than caring for young children. Unfortunately, this position may pay less money.
• Lawn Work or Yard Work Helping elderly neighbors with their lawns or working on your own can give great experience to eventually move into lawn care as a lucrative summer or after-school job. Check with clients to see whether they require you to bring your own equipment (like a lawn mower or rake) or will allow you to use theirs. If you use your own equipment, factor these costs into your overall charge.
• Shoveling Driveways or Raking Leaves Though school will likely be in session during the winter and fall seasons, occasional after-school or weekend work can help keep your cash flow steady. Working throughout the year can also lead to more opportunities for summer employment as your client base continually grows.
• Household Chores (ex. Cleaning) Though you probably already help your parents keep their home neat and clean, taking these skills into the work force can earn you some serious cash. As the overall population ages, more and more elderly people are living alone and need assistance. Contact your local senior center and post a flier advertising your household cleaning services.
• Homework Help and Tutoring The great thing of getting paid to give homework assistance to another student is that you have already been trained: at school. Ask your favorite teacher or guidance counselor for the contact information of parents or elementary school teachers who need tutors.

More Experience:
Great Jobs for 15 16 17 and 19 year olds

• Camp Counselor For teenagers who are a little older and already have experience with child care, assistant coaching or tutoring, becoming a camp counselor is a natural step. Many young children attend both day and overnight camps during the summer months and need responsible, fun teenagers to look up to. Especially if older teens have an area of expertise, such as arts and crafts or music, they should apply to be a camp counselor.
• Cashier Being a bagger or cashier at a local store will help get that first real job on your resume. Getting your foot in the door early will help you advance through the ranks and have a better job next summer. Making the move from bagger at a grocery store to cashier will also give you a raise.
• Child Care Assistant After acquiring some baby sitting experience, it might be possible to get a job at a local child care center or daycare. While these businesses will have older people with more experience in charge of the children, they always need more hands to help with activities and the occasional runny nose. If you like very young children, a job at a daycare center as an assistant may be for you.
• City or Town Summer Jobs Program Many towns throughout the country have created summer work programs for local teenagers. Check with your school principle or counselor to see if such a program exists. These programs often involve working outside in local parks or in the community recreation center.
• Fast Food or Restaurant Not everyone realizes it, but working in the fast food industry can yield great rewards. Once you have experience in the food industry, you are more likely to qualify for a job as a waiter or hostess at a nice restaurant. Think of your summer in the kitchen flipping burgers as a step in the right direction.
• Hospitality (Hotels or Resorts) If you are lucky enough to get a position in the hospitality industry, it will be hard work but will lead to lots of rewards later on. Not only will you gain valuable experience and probably earn some perks (maybe a free round of golf on the resort course) but these positions look great on a resume when you apply for more lucrative positions in college or after high school.
• Lifeguard Not only will you get a great tan as a lifeguard, you will probably have a lot of fun. Lifeguards often meet other young people who work at the pool, a perk of this position. If you enjoy swimming and you can take the required training courses to earn lifeguard certification, this position is definitely for you.
• Office Assistant Like so many of the jobs on this list, working as an office assistant can lead to great employment opportunities later in life. It will be much easier to land a job after high school with one of these jobs. Though you will have to be more professional while your friends spend the summer at the pool, you will earn more money and gain much more experience. Plus, working in an office may give you insight into potential career paths you could pursue.

To attain one of these coveted positions, teenagers should do one or all of the following. Ask your high school guidance counselor for job postings that may be sent to the school. This crucial step could also lead to a recommendation, which is an added bonus. Look at the local want ads in the newspaper or on a website like CareerBuilder.com. Walk around a local downtown center or the mall to try and spot “help wanted” signs. Inquire at local community pools. If you want to work for a private pool, resort or country club, ask members of these organizations whether they are hiring. Always be polite and presentable in your job search and send a thank you note to anyone who offers you guidance or assistance.

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Texas Jobs - Employment in TXBest Cities to Live in for Young SinglesHow to Secure the Best Employment Opportunities

Thanks to a booming economy, there is no shortage of legal job opportunities. From trial attorney to paralegal, the Web offers thousands of openings.


Emplawyernet is a good place to start your search. With more than 6,000 job listings, it’s billed as a career development site for the legal community. Jobs are searchable by area of practice, years of experience or geographic location. Special offerings include a job listing of the day, recruiter directory and salary survey. The site does require membership, and full services are reserved for those willing to shell out the $9.95/month fee. Basic membership is free and will give you access to many resources.

Others to Try

• The Counsel Network
  Offers career advice, recommended links and resources. Candidates can post resume information confidentially.
• Legalstaff.com
  Allows visitors to search openings by job or employer. It also offers a "career agent" service that will automatically notify you when a relevant job is listed. A career center serves up articles, strategies, interviewing tips and goal-setting advice.
• AttorneyJobs.com
  Allows paying members to search for legal and law-related positions in the United States and abroad. Also offers links to helpful articles and publications.
• The National Federation of Paralegal Associations
  Provides career advice for paralegals. You’ll find a searchable job database, a directory of recruiters and helpful articles on salary, cover letters and more. The Paralegal Classifieds also lists openings, but has a $9.95/month fee.
• LegalHire.com and LawJobs also offer searchable job listings. Registration is required, but free.

     — Aidan Leonard

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Paralegal Job BanksLaw JobsParalegal Jobs

· Sales Representatives – Throughout the world, especially in Japan and the United States, talented and knowledgeable salespeople are in high demand. Employers want and need sales reps who know their products inside and out and are able to successfully communicate that information to the consumer. Manpower’s Jeff Joerres says that companies want sales representatives who understand the global picture, including innovations and logistics.

· Plumbers, Electricians and other Manual Trades – Skilled blue-collar professionals are in high demand everywhere. Plumbers, carpenters, welders and electricians are being trained by staffing companies such as the Swiss Adecco, which teaches Polish construction workers Norwegian and then finds them jobs in Norway’s struggling construction industry.

· Lab Workers and Other Technicians – China is one place where skilled laboratory technicians are in demand. This nation has a large supply of raw labor yet employers struggle to find enough educated technicians. Many of those currently employed in this industry are moving from job to job as salaries rise.

· Engineers – These skilled employees are needed everywhere, but countries such as Germany, which has always been an engineering powerhouse courtesy of companies like BMW and Siemens, are trying to recruit more engineers. The lack of competent engineers is beginning to hurt auto parts suppliers and may lead to a loss of competitiveness in countries like Germany.

· Accountants and Finance Experts – Companies have continued to use technology to advance their accounting and finance systems. With this advancement, new people have been hired with the required skills to balance the books. More accountants are needed to help businesses measure and record their numbers.

· Laborers and Factory Hands – Although millions of people in countries in Eastern Europe, China and India lack good jobs, employers in these areas often cannot find enough help in manufacturing centers. This problem often results from the labor supply being too far from these centers; lack of transportation is a major issue. Another issue is that often laborers also lack the basic skills required to work in a manufacturing center. Companies everywhere have laborer positions to be filled.

· Skilled Manufacturing Workers – Along the same lines as laborers and factory hands, there are not enough skilled manufacturing workers to go around. As the working age population decreases in many nations around the globe additional training and incentives are necessary to keep these essential jobs filled. Productivity of workers is just as, if not more, important than the number of workers employed by a company. Companies everywhere are investing time and money to train laborers and boost their skills.

· Bus, Truck and Taxi Drivers – Large cities such as New York, Paris and Barcelona have been experiencing a driver shortage for quite some time.

· Senior Managers – These positions are empty in formerly Communist countries around the world. Technical schools abound in these nations, but few MBA programs exist. Recruiters have begun to step it up in countries such as Hungary to fill these open jobs.

· Machinists and Equipment Operators – Many manufacturers build heavy machines and equipment but cannot find qualified, skilled employees to maintain their products. This problem will only get worse around the world.

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Global 1000Self-improvementSearch Jobs by Company

Managers and supervisors often look for specific criteria when selecting people in entry-level or lower-level positions to fill open employment opportunities. In order to put yourself in line for soon-to-be available employment opportunities within your company, follow some of these simple suggestions which may be the key to getting the boost you need.

• Time, place and manner – You never want to ask for more projects, a raise or a promotion too soon.  Make sure you have proven your ability to do the job you have before you seek better employment opportunities.  Ideally, your supervisor will approach you about expanded employment opportunities after you have shown that you can get the job done well and in a timely manner.  If you do ask for more responsibility and are rebuffed, wait at least several months before you make another request.
• Express your ability to relocate – Sometimes companies look for candidates to staff new offices.  If you are willing and able to find employment opportunities in other areas of the country or world, express this desire to your supervisor.  Pay attention to employment opportunities in different locations that the company may advertise internally.  Remind your supervisor of any language skills or previous experience that would make you an ideal candidate for relocation and advanced employment opportunities.  Remember to make yourself valuable.
• Offer to take on more responsibility – This is the easiest way to secure employment opportunities.  You can make this offer formal or informal, depending on your workplace situation, supervisor and current position.  It is best to offer to take on more projects or responsibilities after you have completed a project well and submitted it to your supervisor.  If you are congratulated or rewarded in some way, take that time to express an interest in increased responsibility.  This will signal that you want more employment opportunities.
• Pick a specialty – Your company likely has many different areas or branches within it.  A great way to prime yourself for employment opportunities is to excel at one thing that the company does.  To determine which area you have interest in, take a career assessment test.  You can find free tests online at sites like CareerPath.com.  These tests will tell you which types of employment opportunities are ideal for you.  If possible, get additional training in a specialty that interests you.  Contact the human resources department to express an interest in upcoming programs or training sessions.
• There is no “I” in team – If you cannot work well on the team you currently work with, there are few employment opportunities that will open up for you.  Show your supervisor and coworkers that you can always be counted on to step up and support others.  Volunteer to help with the workload of a coworker who is out sick or on vacation, for example.  Attend all meetings and do so cheerfully.  Never gossip about coworkers or your supervisor.  Try to participate in all team activities, even outside of work.  Show that you tailor your work and projects to overall team goals.  These practices will help open other employment opportunities.
• Meet the upper management – Networking is a great way to create new employment opportunities.  If you have access to upper managers or supervisors, take full advantage.  Offer to take a senior manager out to lunch.  Tell your boss that you want to meet some of the company leadership and get a better understanding of how the company functions as a whole.  Few people take advantage of these opportunities when presented.  When the upper management knows who you are, you have a much better chance of being added to the pile of people to get extra employment opportunities.
• Consult with a mentor – When you initially begin a new job, always look around for someone who has worked there for some time.  Mentors can be people who perform duties similar to yours but have worked for the company longer than you, or they can be supervisors and managers of other departments.  It may be a good idea to find a mentor who is not your supervisor.  Remember, you want to open up employment opportunities for yourself, and meeting many different types of people within a company is a good way to do that.  Ask your mentor for advice on how to find employment opportunities within the company. 
• Take a pay cut – Sometimes the best move is a lateral move.  For example, if you work in an entry-level sales position but would like to find employment opportunities in marketing or finance, make contact with the heads of those departments or with human resources to express interest.  Make it known without being overly blunt that you would like to explore employment opportunities in other departments, no matter what the cost.  This will encourage the company leadership to give you employment opportunities that they may not have offered otherwise.  Many supervisors assume that employees are driven by the dollar and nothing else.  Show that you have natural passion for new projects or areas.
• Ask for advice – If you have attempted some of these ideas and have not been given the employment opportunities you had hoped for or desired, think about how to approach your manager or supervisor.  The next time you have a performance evaluation would be an excellent time.  Mention that you would love advice from someone who has advanced in the company.  Make sure that you do not make it sound to your supervisor that you want his or her job.  Express that you are open to a wide variety of employment opportunities.  Ask how you can become an attractive candidate to company leadership.
• Try something new – You may find yourself in a situation in which excellent employment opportunities are not likely to present themselves.  For example, the management positions in your company may all be filled with young and successful people.  If you see little chance of getting the employment opportunities you desire, consider making a change.  Look for employment opportunities outside the company or try to transfer your skills to a different industry.  Sometimes change is good, and it could be the key to finding the employment opportunities your career needs.

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Step 2
Unemployment is one of the most stressful events you will ever go through. Whether you’ve known about your termination for months or you just got your pink slip this morning, you’re likely to experience a variety of emotions ranging from guilt and sadness to anger and depression. The important thing to keep in mind is that your feelings are normal and that you need to give yourself the proper time to work through them. Take the next week off. Sleep in, have lunch with friends, or work out.

Step 3
Go through your checkbook register or your debit card receipts. Determine how and where you spend your money. Find ways to cut unnecessary expenses.

Step 4
Writing a good resume takes time. Spend as much time as necessary putting together a resume that accurately describes your qualifications and achievements. Whenever possible, list measurable results and concrete examples of your achievements. Here’s a real-life example: Led a customer service project team that resulted in a 20 percent decrease in customer complaints within three months.

Step 5
Although each and every cover letter you write must be customized for the company to which it is being sent, it doesn’t hurt to have several well-written paragraphs ready and waiting. You can customize this draft in the weeks to come when applying to each prospective employers.

Step 6
It doesn’t take long for a job seeker to learn that the old statement, “it’s not what you know, but who you know,” really is true. Knowing someone on the inside or getting your foot in the door is key. A good place to start networking is with your former co-workers, friends and family members. Ask them if they know of any opportunities in your field or if they know of anyone who may have an opening in the industry in which you are interested.

Step 7
During a job search, first impressions are critical. Make sure you have at least one interview suit ready to go so that you are prepared when you receive an invitation to interview. Although most companies have business casual dress codes, casual dress is never appropriate on a job interview. On the contrary, job interview attire is a critical component of your job search that must not be overlooked.

Step 8
Experts suggest that job seekers spend at least three hours preparing for each interview. You should research the company with which you are interviewing and the industry in which it operates. You also should draft concise answers to the most commonly asked interview questions such as why you want to work for the company and what you can do for the company. To demonstrate your interest in the position, you also should plan to ask the interviewer several questions of your own such as the skills the ideal candidate will possess and how a typical day looks in the job.

Step 9
Looking for a job is a full-time job. Make sure your friends and family know that you are off-limits between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. each day.

Step 10
Look for ways to expand your skill sets while you have the time to do so. Is there a computer program you’ve always wanted to learn and never had the time? How about an executive seminar or workshop that you think would be interesting but couldn’t afford the time out of the office? Take advantage of your time off by using it to learn a new skill. Learning anything new can be a huge boost to your self-confidence.

Step 11
After 5 p.m., your time belongs to you. It’s more important than ever that you let off steam by participating in activities you enjoy. Take a jog, visit a museum, accept a babysitting job or rent some movies. Do what you enjoy . . . you’ve earned it.

Step 12
One of the worst things you can do after leaving a job is to isolate yourself. If you were part of a mass lay off at your company, stay in touch with your positive-minded former co-workers. Accept invitations from friends and family members to go out. Invite your friends over to watch movies or to exercise together. The key is staying in circulation and staying positive through interaction with people.

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Have the Right Priorities – Your boss has certain goals in mind and a vision of how to attain them.  Make his or her goals your goals and keep these on the brain throughout the workday.  If he or she can see that you are working for the future interest of the company, your employment opportunities may increase.

Know the Evaluation System – Each company has a unique set of workplace behaviors and employee attributes that are evaluated periodically.  These are obviously going to be the skills you need to succeed.  Ask your supervisor which skills you can strengthen to get a better idea of how you can separate yourself from the pack at evaluation time.

Most Dependable – If you promise to complete a task or take the lead on a project, make sure you not only do the work but do it better than expected.  It is essential to under-promise and over-deliver if you want to be noticed by management.

Be Happy – No one wants to work closely with a negative person.  Stay cheerful in your interactions with others in the workplace.  Avoid the water cooler if your fellow employees are bashing the boss.  Negative energy will not earn you a corner office with a view.

Give Credit to Your Boss – In line with the idea of having the right priorities, making your boss look good to upper management can show that you care about the company and want to help succeed.  Giving credit to your boss for his or her successes can also help to earn him or her a promotion, which opens a spot on the career ladder.

Admit Your Mistakes – No one is perfect.  That is why interviewers often ask potential candidates to list some of their failures or weaknesses.  If you exhibit honestly in the workplace by admitting when you are wrong you will show your boss that you can recognize your own flaws.  This also demonstrates a willingness to learn from your workplace mistakes and move on, skills that every successful business person needs. 

Stay Organized – Keep a calendar of your life, including workplace deadlines and events from your personal life.  One calendar will prevent you from getting “double-booked.”  Rank your workplace to-do list with the most important tasks at the top; these deserve the highest priority.  Accomplishing the important things in a timely manner will show your boss that you can manage your time effectively.

Do Your Research – No one appreciates people who ask constant questions and cannot think for themselves.  Your boss does not want you to email him or her with every concern or question you may have.  Go to your supervisor only when you have a real question or issue that shows you have already done your research. 

Use Your Resources - If your company offers additional training or volunteer opportunities, take advantage of these, especially if they are outside your area of expertise.  The people in charge want to promote employees who show that they can broaden their horizons and take interest in more than what affects them directly. Good managers can think of broad solutions and often have a varied background.

Be Informed – Read journals or magazines so that you will be aware of the latest industry news that may affect your company.  At the same time, do not be the employee who broadcasts his or her knowledge around the office.  Save what you know for when your boss asks you a question or when you can offer insight during an important meeting.  No one likes a know-it-all; everyone likes someone who can offer accurate and helpful information.

Be Healthy – Taking all of your sick days will not help you earn that promotion.  Stay physically fit in your free time to reduce your chance of illness and increase your self confidence.  If you get run down and unhealthy, your pride and ambition are likely to suffer, as well as your productivity.

Keep Your Personal Life at Home – The office is not the time to discuss the intimate details of your personal issues.  Your work will suffer, and your coworkers, though they appear sympathetic, may not be as interested as you think.  Besides, gossip in the workplace shows a lack of professionalism. 

Dress For the Job You Want – Look and act like you deserve and have earned that promotion at all times.  Be comfortable on Casual Friday, but avoid wearing old jeans or shoes.  People who get promotions not only put in the time and earn recognition, they look the part.

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There are many common reasons for gaps in someone’s employment history. For example, some parents take time off to raise their children. Many employers expect some gaps in employment history and will accept most reasonable explanations.

There are many common reasons for gaps in someone’s employment history.  For example, some parents take time off to raise their children.  Many employers expect some gaps in employment history and will accept most reasonable explanations.

Often it is not why you took time off from working; it is how you explain this gap to a potential employer that will make the difference.  If you explain a year long hole in your employment history by stuttering and saying that you were incarcerated, you are likely to lose credibility with a potential employer. 
Read on for some common reasons for a gap in employment history and how you should explain these to potential employers.  Remember to be confident, no matter what reason you had for taking time off, and be prepared to answer more detailed questions about your reason.  Emphasize why you want to rejoin the workforce and why this particular position or company is the right place to do so.  Turn your employment history into an asset, not a hindrance.

• Children –
  One of the most common reasons for taking time off is to care for small children.  Many women take off time immediately before or after a pregnancy.  Though some companies offer generous maternal and paternal leave options, staying at home with your new baby may be your choice.  When you return to the workforce from staying at home with children, focus your employment history on your education and skills prior to the time off.  Also highlight any volunteer work, classes you took or activities you did during your time off.  Emphasize that you continued to expand your skill set during this time and that you always planned to return to work.
  
  
• Education –
  Some people worry that taking time off to attend school full-time will ruin their employment history.  Employers often appreciate someone who completely dedicates him or herself to gaining new training and education.  Be honest about your decision.  Express that you decided to take time off from work to get the most you could out of the education experience and that you returned to school in order to give yourself more employment opportunities.  Include your education on your resume with the dates.  If you were not able to complete your degree, explain why and show that you plan to finish as soon as possible.  Most employers will understand when plans are altered due to unforeseen financial constraints, for example.
  
  
• Failed Business –
  Unfortunately, a large percentage of small businesses do not continue to grow and expand and many entrepreneurs decide to return to the full-time workforce after a small business venture has failed.  Your employment history on your resume should reflect the time you spent on getting your small business off the ground.  Be honest with a potential employer about why you began a small business and why you think it failed.  Express that the experience inspired you and that you have learned a great deal from the venture that you can now apply to a new career or job. 
  
  
• Fired or Laid Off –
  In a world where job security is not always as secure as we like to hope, many employers understand when an employment history ends abruptly with a lay off.  Explain that your former company was downsizing or restructuring and that unfortunately you were unable to remain with them.  If you left voluntarily, tell that to a potential employer.  If you were fired from a previous job, be honest about the reason with a potential employer and explain that whatever resulted in your firing is something you have worked on and fixed.  For example, if you were always late to work you should emphasize to a potential employer that you have taken steps to fix this issue and that you know it will not be a problem in the future.
  
  
• Health Problems –
  Unfortunately, health problems can strike anyone without warning.  If you chose to take time off due to severe health problems, such as cancer, tell the hiring manger and express that you are now fit to return to work.  Show a potential employer that you spent the time not only recuperating but expanding your skill set or knowledge of your chosen industry or career.
  
  
• Incarceration –
  It is very possible to find a job after you are released from time in a correctional facility.  Again, be very honest about the time you served.  Explain that while you were fulfilling your debt to society you continued your education or gained additional skills in your facility.  Show that you regret whatever mistake caused you to be incarcerated.  Some time in a correctional facility will not ruin your employment history forever.  Express that you would like to start over and look forward to working hard in an entry-level position that fits your skill set.  Most employers are willing to hire and train people who have completed their time in a correctional facility and demonstrate a desire to work hard and get back on track.

  

• Marriage –
  Occasionally, people take time off for reasons such as marriage.  If you took time off to plan a wedding and get settled into a new phase of your life, you should expect some questions when you return to the workforce.  When asked about this gap in your employment history, focus on the skills you developed during this time and explain any extenuating circumstances that required that you take time off.  For example, if you moved across the country after getting married, you should tell a potential employer about your relocation and how much you look forward to establishing your career in a new place with a new company.
  
  
• Personal Issues –
  Depression, a death in the family or divorce can all be reasons why people take time off from working.  If your employment history has a gap due to a personal issue, spend some time before you begin a job search to ensure that you are ready to reenter the workforce.  When you make the decision to return to work, explain to potential employers that you took time off to resolve personal matters and then point to your previous employment history.  Some employers will want more information about your personal crisis.  Try to explain without getting too personal.  Express how excited you are to return to work and what you can contribute to a particular company or position.
  
  
• Retirement –
  Some people have a gap in their employment history because they retired.  Coming out of retirement is becoming increasingly popular as baby boomers decide that a relaxed lifestyle either is not for them or that they cannot afford it.  If you are reentering the workforce after retirement, use your employment history as an advantage.  Point out your experience, wisdom and skills as a boost.  Explain that you are willing to commit to a position long term to allay an employer’s fears that you will retire again after being hired.
  
  
• Travel –
  Many people have a lifelong dream of taking a year off to travel the world.  If you actually had the fortune to be able to do this, do not worry about this gap in your employment history.  Explain what you learned while abroad when you resume your job search.  Emphasize new skills or abilities you have, such as new languages you can speak or cultural awareness you have gained.  Employers are often willing to hire someone who will be an asset to a company.  If you can show that you pursued a dream and did so in a responsible fashion, this employment history gap is unlikely to hurt you.  You can even include a period abroad on your resume.
  
  

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Many job seekers have a variety of questions regarding which resume paper to choose. More traditional job seekers continue to prefer the classic white resume paper with the watermark of the resume paper maker. Another classic option is a cream or ivory resume paper, which can help to distinguish your resume when it is in a pile with others.

Younger job seekers or people who are applying for jobs such as graphic designers and more creative professions may want something else. For example, resume papers that come in a variety of colors may be available for the very brave. These types of resume paper are not widely recommended as they may result in your resume being tossed in the garbage with other brightly colored papers.

For those who prefer to shop online there is also a wide selection of resume papers available. Unfortunately, shopping online denies you the opportunity to touch and feel the resume paper you select. Traditional resume paper is made up of 25 percent cotton. There are also resume papers available in 100 percent cotton, though this is less common.

If you dislike the look of a company’s watermark on your resume paper, as many people do, you may want to consider purchasing resume paper like the product sold on CareerBuilder.com. The CareerBuilder resume paper does not feature a watermark so that an employer will focus his or her attention on you and your information, not the maker of your resume paper.

Good luck selecting a resume paper. Once you have selected the perfect paper you can concentrate on sending out resumes with pride, confident in what your paper says about you.

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A degree is required to work as a paralegal. Some paralegal jobs require a bachelor’s degree, while others require an associate’s degree. As the duties of paralegals increase in the coming years, paralegals with more education and training will have a better chance at receiving one of these positions. An education is needed to work as a paralegal due to the complexity and experience needed to perform the following tasks, some or all of which may be required of the job. Here are some of the tasks required of paralegals, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Help lawyers prepare for closings, hearings, trials and meetings.
• Investigate the facts of cases.
• Identify relevant laws, judicial decisions, legal articles and any other materials that relate to cases.
• Prepare written reports for attorneys about research.
• Assist lawyers in preparing legal arguments, draft pleadings and motions.
• Draft contracts, mortgages, separation agreements and instruments of trust.
• Prepare tax returns and estates.
• Coordinate the activities of other law office employees and maintain financial office records.
• Work in many different areas of the law, including litigation, personal injury, corporate law, criminal law, employee benefits, intellectual property, labor law, bankruptcy, immigration, family law and real estate.
•  Assist attorneys with employee contracts, shareholder agreements, stock-option plans and employee benefit plans
• Prepare and file annual financial reports, maintain corporate minutes’ record resolutions and prepare forms to secure loans for the corporation.
• Monitor and review government regulations to ensure that a corporation is aware of new requirements and is operating within the law.
• Oversee team projects and serve as a communication link between the team and the corporation.
• Analyze legal material for internal use, maintain reference files, conduct research for attorneys and collect and analyze evidence for agency hearings.
• Prepare informative or explanatory material on laws, agency regulations and agency policy for general use by the agency and the public.
• Help the poor, the aged, and others who are in need of legal assistance.
• May represent clients at administrative hearings.

Paralegals must be familiar with computers and have technical knowledge about how to use data software effectively. The Internet and certain software programs are now essential in legal research. Paralegals use computer databases frequently in their work. Many paralegals work to update corporate databases with scanned images, bills or other documents. If paralegals have not acquired these skills or this knowledge through experience or their previous education, they should ask their employers about additional training to keep abreast of recent advancements in technology and database systems.

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Students, who usually do not have lots of work experience, do not have long employment histories to list. Even if students do have work experience and a long employment history, a chronological resume filled with odd jobs like babysitting and lifeguarding will not be as impressive to potential employers. Students should focus on using what experience they do have from all areas of their lives to create focused and tailored functional resume.

Below is an example résumé for a college student with little actual work experience. Notice a few key points about this sample résumé:

• “Sally Q. Smith” has broken down her experience into a variety of skills. She has put the most important part of the résumé, her educational background, at the top of the page. She also includes dates.
  
• Sally has used her school email address. She did not use her pricessgurl320@website.com address, as it is not very professional. It is always better to use an email address for your school if possible.
  
• Sally always includes the dates of her activities. This helps potential employers to see that she can balance multiple activities at once and that she does not have any large gaps in her employment or activities history.
  
• Sally starts the description of what she did in a particular position with a strong action verb such as “organized” or “wrote.” She gives specific examples of what she did.
  
• Sally puts activities she did in the past in past tense and activities she continues to be involved in the present tense.
  
• If Sally had any relevant coursework to add to her student resume that would show interest in the specific position she was applying for, she could add a separate section, titled “relevant coursework” to the resume.
  
• Remember that these are only a few examples of what a resume can look like. Student resumes are all going to look different because each student is unique, with a different employment history and skill set.
  
• When you find yourself wondering how to make a student resume, you should ask fellow students and the career services center at your school to see sample student resumes and get advice on your own resume.

Sally Q. Smith
Sallysmith@school.edu
www.sallyqsmith.com

Campus Address:
10 Meadow Lane, Room 4B
San Francisco, CA 00013
(555) 435-7860

Permanent Address:
345 Shady Lane
Rochester, NY 33345
(555) 235-8908

EDUCATION:

University of Ohio, Cleveland, Ohio

Bachelor of Arts, Major in Political Science, Minor in Biology, May 2010

GPA: 3.1/4.0

Member Biology Department Honor Society, November 2007

INTERNSHIPS:

Ohio Zoo Marketing Intern, Akron, Ohio

July – August 2007

• Updated zoo website daily with animal news and press releases.
• Researched species’ status in natural environments for external marketing purposes.
• Wrote daily reports regarding visitor data and news information for zoo president.

EXPERIENCE:

Bingo Restaurant Hostess, Akron, Ohio

June – August 2006

• Escorted customers to available tables.
• Resolved any customer issues with service or reservations.

LEADERSHIP SKILLS:

Delta Delta Gamma Sorority, University of Ohio

• Recruitment Team, September 2007: Supervised members during set throughout recruitment cycle to ensure all regulations and rules were followed.
• Vice President, Operations, January 2006 – January 2007: Coordinated all officers to facilitate communication and organized weekly chapter meetings.

TECHNICAL SKILLS:

• Proficient in use of Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel.

LANGUAGE SKILLS:

• Fluent in Spanish, basic conversational ability in Italian.

INTERESTS:

• Golfing, biking, tennis.

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