Archive for July, 2009

Thursday, July 16th, 2009

Looking To Advance Your Career? Get Educated!

Maintaining current skills is very important in today’s world. In a world that is constantly changing, you have to stay on top of your game in order to stay competitive. Thanks to advent of distance learning, continuing your education or even earning a degree is well within reach for even the busiest working adult.

Whether it’s renewing a certification or completing a diploma or degree program, the best way to advance your career or begin a new one is through continuing education.

Obtaining new skills will make you more marketable if you are looking for a new job. You will also be able to command a larger salary.

Do You Work Full Time? No Problem!

Training programs designed for working professionals often have core information condensed into shorter sections. The idea is to offer more flexibility to those who work full-time and have limited availability to attend traditional classes.

Even though working adults have less time to attend classes, they are often more disciplined and better equipped to get the job done. They are also, on average, less inclined to waste time and money by enrolling in a course that they will not complete.

Although learning in this type of setting is less formal and more self-directed, help is available if you need it. A program director is usually assigned to each student and instructors provide their email address and telephone numbers so you can contact them directly.

So, there is no reason why you can’t continue your education, no matter what kind of career you have.

Sunday, July 12th, 2009

Job Hunting – Back To Basics

There are many ways that you can look for a new job. You might scour employment websites, the want ads in newspapers, or even rely on word of mouth. However, how you go about your search will make the difference between just envisioning your dream job and actually landing it.

In order to land your ideal job, you will need to have the most effective search tools at your disposal and be very creative in the process.

Finding Job Openings

It is well known that the most coveted job openings will not be posted on any job board or in the newspaper. Most of these positions are filled through referrals and networking. Many employers will only go to job fairs or career seminars because they are more likely to find candidates who are passionate about their careers and hungry for new opportunities.

A good place to start your search would be the college from which you earned your degree or any specialized training.

Many colleges, both large and small, have career placement departments that assist graduates in securing employment. They often have access to many opportunities that are not posted elsewhere. The placement department can also give you interview tips. You may have a fantastic resume – but it won’t mean a thing if you can’t land the job.

Be In The Know

Before each job interview, you should research the company and gather as much information as possible so that you will be prepared. It helps to know how long they have been in business, what other opportunities are available, the size of the organization, and its financial worth.

Your work is not done until you immediately send a thank you letter to your interviewer thanking them for their time. This simple act of courtesy can leave a lasting impression.

Your search begins and ends with you. You should know what your goals are and how to go after them. If you have a clear vision and a plan to get there, then you will find the right opportunity.