Cliff Notes: The Employment Letters

Cover Letter Preparation
You need a practical cover letter that summarizes your accomplishments and highlights vital elements in your background, as well as convincing the reader to want to review your resume. A good cover letter should be customized for your job search and include an interchangeable template so you can cater each cover letter towards the exact position (even requisition ID number) for any specific employer, right down to how you can provide a solution to that particular company’s specific needs, thus making your knowledge appear superior to your competitor.

What are you seeking in this position? Tell them your objective. For example: "I am a 20-year banking expert seeking a financial advisory position with a progressive, leading company in Cleveland, OH". Even better, use the company’s name.

When preparing a cover letter, a good thing to remember is that it needs to be attention-worthy. Do not say “Dear Hiring Manager,” but rather find out the person who is making the hire and personalize it (target the letter) for them. Do not just state that you need a job in marketing, but rather why you want a job in marketing at this particular company.

A client of mine used LinkedIn to locate a specific hiring manager at a company that had posted a position she was highly interested in. She then utilized my Google search methodology (see “How I Contact Hiring Managers to Find a Job”) to find the hiring manager’s email and sent him a customized cover letter. The hiring manager told her that he immediately picked up the phone to contact her even before looking at her resume because of her cover letter.

Follow-up Letter Preparation
Post-interview can be the most crucial time for a job seeker. While you are still fresh in the hiring manager’s mind, you need to act…and quick! You need an effective follow-up letter that:

- Shows the employer your relevant interest in the job

- Shows your appreciation of the correspondence and interview they provided

- Reiterates your skills and any important information you might have not provided while interviewing

- Reminds them about some key highlights that occurred during the interview

- Updates them with important information they might have requested

- Tells why you can be the solution to their human capital needs

When I recruited for a hiring manager at an Aerospace company, he explained to me that if he does not receive a follow-up letter, he would not even consider a candidate. Now that is a bit extreme, but the point is that you never know the type of person that is hiring candidates, so you must accommodate everyone in every way that is in your control. So if a follow-up letter is something extra you can do to exceed expectations, why not do it?

In conclusion, I think a cover letter and follow-up letter are just as important as a resume. All of these documents belong in your job search “toolkit” and must be precise and just as good as your resume. I have had clients in the past that did not put the time and effort into their collateral and wondered why they would not garner an interview. It’s simple: provide the potential employers with everything possible that showcases your abilities and motivation to be better than the competition, because your competition is making sure they have all the right tools in their toolbox.

Salary Negotiations: The Initial Offer and Your Response

When negotiating salary or other benefit, you are also negotiating the foundation of a relationship, so you want to get off on the right foot. You and the employer must come to an agreement that you both feel is fair.

If you have multiple job offers, you can sharpen your negotiation skills. Practice with a company you are indifferent about working for. If you are feeling confident, try for the company with the best offer. Remember, if they are negotiating, then you are the leading candidate. Use this power to your advantage.

The following are the best steps to take when negotiation begins:
1. Do not negotiate until you have an offer in writing. Let the employer go first with the offer. However, if they ask you first, tell them your salary range (that you determined with the Considerations in this handout).
2. Restate their offer, and then process it. Keep an honest yet non-emotional response (including body language) based on your research.
3. If it is less than you expect, indicate that it is lower than you expected per your research. Be prepared to verify the sources of your research.
4. Counteroffer with your research-based response and desired range. Remain objective, optimistic, and polite.
5. Never accept an offer right then and there. Ask when they need to know your decision. A respectable company does not ask you to respond immediately.

Their Response and Your Arguments
They may have to consult with the company and get back to you. Rarely do they withdraw an offer because of a counteroffer, but they may if the company is reorganizing or downsizing. Hopefully the employer returns with a satisfying offer. Otherwise, they state their objection and the offer that stands.

Numbers always work in salary negotiation just as they do in your resume. Never give subjective or emotion-based arguments like, “My co-workers really like me” or “I deserve it”. Give undeniable business-related numbers such as, “I increased annual sales by $25,000” or “As vice president, I’ve reduced my department’s employee turnover by 40%”.

Handling Common Salary and Raise Objections
You may hear the following objections. Here are some methods for overcoming these:

Their Objection and Your Response
1. "That’s not within our budget for the job."
-or-
“That’s all we have allocated for the job.”
• Communicate your value to the employer.
• Convince them to revise the budget allocation for the position.
• Point out that the amount is below market value, using your researched range (not an exact amount).
• Show your interest in the job, but mention that you cannot justify accepting less than the market value.

2. "Other employees with similar qualifications and experience aren't paid that much."
-or-
“You’d be earning more than others in this type of position.”
-or-
“No one else has received a raise, so why do you think you should?”
• Persuade them that you should earn more because you are worth more. Give specific examples to support your argument (e.g., more advanced degree or more experience than others).
• Suggest that they give you a different job title so you fall into a higher salary bracket. Offer to take on additional responsibilities to offset the higher salary. Usually big companies are not quick to blur job titles and salary levels. But smaller companies not using formal pay-grades may be more flexible to this.

3. "Your salary history does not justify such an increase."
-or-
“That’s a lot more than your last salary.”
• Stress that you expect to be compensated for the value of your work and what you plan to achieve within the organization. Help the employer realize that previous salaries are unrelated to this job. Try using these responses in terms of your situation:
• “Yes, I earned less at my last job. However, I held that position for 3 years and the experience I’ve gained certainly warrants an increase.”
• “What I’m paid is below market rate. That’s one reason I’m looking for a new job. Because of my skills and recent degree, I don’t want to accept anything less than market value for a new job.”

4. “You haven’t been working for a while.”
• Do not let them assume you are willing to work for less, need retraining or are desperate for a job. Let them know that you offer as much as those with current experience.
• Stress that your endeavors away from work (training, education, volunteer work, personal projects) enhanced you as an employee.
• Accept a lower salary and request a performance review in 6 months. Ask for a guarantee that if you meet your goals, they will increase you to the market value.

5. “I’m sorry, but it’s our policy not to negotiate.”
• Look into whether this is true about the company. If it is true, you may have no choice. If might not be true, say, “I understand you don’t normally negotiate salary. But I am an exception, because…”
• Negotiate for better non-cash benefits.

Final Offer
Know when to quit. If you sense the employer getting frustrated with your proposals or states that this is all they can do for you, stop and evaluate the existing offer. Do not give the impression that you are impatient or greedy. You may annoy the employer if you push beyond their limits, and they may withdraw offer.

When they come back to you with their final offer, be ready to evaluate and decide to accept or decline. Once an offer and package is agreed upon verbally, always make sure they are going to mail it to you in a signed, written document (an “offer of employment” letter).

Other Negotiables
Salary is not the only area to negotiate. If the employer rejects your desired salary or in certain jobs, industries or companies where salary is non-negotiable, you still have other options. These other options may be more important to you and might be negotiable.

To better prepare and negotiate, you may want to ask their HR department for information about benefits and options available. These can include:

• Bonuses (performance-based)
• Performance reviews (including timing and percentage)
• Health, dental, life and disability insurance
• Retirement or pension plans
• Vacation and sick days
• Work-from-home days
• Tuition reimbursement
• Overtime policies
• Profit sharing plans
• Stock options
• Employee discounts
• Company car and expense accounts (like commuter expenses)
• Relocation/moving expenses
• Termination contract
• Professional association or gym memberships
• Certifications
• Childcare
• Sign-on bonus

JobStickers Podcast #2: You've Been Laid Off! Now What?!?!

DOWNLOAD:


LISTEN:


Welcome to the 2nd official MJW Careers podcast! This week we will be discussing what to do immediately following a layoff.

On the show, we discussed some tips and don't forget about our “Free Resume” contest. For more info about these and other great job hunting tips, please visit www.jobstickers.com or our website www.mjwcareers.com.

For more information on the "Free Resume" contest, check out http://mjwcareers.blogspot.com/2011/01/announcing-free-resume-contest.html

You Better Work It (at the Next Networking Event)

Work the Networking Events & Tips of the Icebreaker

Get the most out of networking events and understand how to utilize your time to maximize your benefit. Also, some icebreakers to get you going at the networking event.

Tips to remember at your next networking event:
• Get the most out of networking events.
○ Join industry networking functions by checking online with relevant associations.
○ Research who is attending and make a list of the best people for you to meet.
○ Develop and strengthen relationships by following up with your top connections.
○ Arrange your own networking functions!

• Look and act appropriately.
○ Practice and know your elevator speech! Use it as your introduction.
○ Be positive, friendly, and enthusiastic! No one wants to talk to (or hire) a bore!
○ Ask questions and listen.
○ Get to know the person and the company.

• Remember people’s names.
○ Use their name at least 3 times throughout your conversation.
○ Swap cards and write a note or description on the back to remind you who they are.
○ Later you can forward articles or other information about their industry (or hobbies) to them. This keeps you connected with them.

• Getting into a networking group at an event.
○ Stand by and observe their body language until you get an opening.
○ Offer them some refreshments.

• Getting out of a networking group at an event.
○ Always act interested, even if you are not.
○ Say, “Thank you! I enjoyed talking with you. Enjoy the rest of the evening.”
○ Swap business cards and say, “Can I call you so we can discuss this further?”
○ Always close with a handshake and smile.

• Do not forget about unconventional networking places like community events, prayer groups, PTA meetings, charities, political campaigns, local shopping, etc. You never know where your next lead will come from, so keep resumes in your car and business cards in your pocket or purse.

In your first networking conversation with someone new:
• Always begin with, “Hi! I’m ____. How are you?” and shake hands firmly.
• Say your elevator speech.
• Focus on them, not you.
• Compliment them.
• After you have talked business, ask about casual topics like family and spare time.
• Use the lingo and networking tricks you overhear, if they get a positive response!

Try using these statements as icebreakers or to spark further conversation:
• “I’d like to know more about [the company/positions available/something else you have researched].”
• “What an outstanding [booth/event/turnout]!”
• “Isn’t this is a clever [brochure/marketing item]?”
• “Where do you work?”
• “What kind of work do you do?”
• “How did you get into that industry?”
• “What do you enjoy most about that industry?”
• “How did you go about getting your job?”
• “What do you enjoy most about your job?”
• “What keeps you motivated?”
• "How are you going to continue growing your business?"
• “Who is your most challenging competitor and why?”
• “What is your greatest challenge?”
• “Which industry websites or blogs do you follow?”
• “Are you attending other [career fairs, events, etc.] soon? I’m interested in going too.”
• “If you weren’t in your current career, what would you be doing?”
• “When you are not at work, what do you do for fun?”

Matt Warzel's Interview with the Wilmington Star News Newspaper

Below is the entire article from the Star News Newspaper when they interviewed the President of MJW Careers, Matt Warzel. It was published on Friday, March 19, 2010.

Job search tips shared at New Hanover libraries
By Cece Nunn
Cece.Nunn@StarNewsOnline.com

Published: Friday, March 19, 2010 at 9:24 a.m.
Last Modified: Friday, March 19, 2010 at 9:24 a.m.

People looking for work should take every opportunity they can find to learn new skills or get advice on the best way to continue their search, says Matt Warzel of MJW Careers, a business based in Wilmington that provides services for job seekers.

“If you're unemployed, looking for a job is a job,” said Warzel, who has spent 10 years in the fields of human resources and staffing.

Warzel will be providing two free opportunities for job seekers to improve their chances this month, one at the Northeast Regional Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Road, and another at the downtown New Hanover County Public Library, 201 Chestnut St.

At the Northeast session at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 23, Warzel's talk will target an audience of job seekers who have some job experience but were downsized or may be re-entering the workforce after retirement. For them, knowing their way around the Internet, from looking at company Web sites to using job sites like simplyhired.com or indeed.com, is key, Warzel said. Understanding social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter, along with finding opportunities for face-to-face meetings, will boost a job seeker's chances, he said.

Also, using numbers in your resume is more important now than ever before because employers want to know how a worker improved the bottom line at his or her last company, Warzel said, adding that employers don't care as much about the responsibilities a worker had as they do about the numbers.

“Present yourself as if you're a company,” he said. “You've got to make yourself more marketable.”

At the downtown session at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 25, Warzel will address the basics of a job search for people looking for lower paying or entry level positions, including setting up an e-mail address, filling out paper and online applications and interview skills. He'll also talk about what to wear when meeting with a potential boss.

“Dress sharp,” he said. “Wear one level up,” which means if you're vying for a job as an employee at a coffee shop, dress like the manager of the shop.

In those situations, first impressions may mean everything.

“Nine times out of 10, they're going to hire you based on the initial conversation,” Warzel said.

Warzel's sessions come at a time when the unemployment rate in Wilmington in December 2009, the most recent rate available, was 10.1 percent compared to 8.2 percent the previous year. For New Hanover County, the rate that month was 9.7 percent, compared to 7.3 percent.

In the past two years, more people have been using New Hanover County Public Library computers, in many cases to aid job searches, said Dorothy Hodder, public services librarian.

Warzel's sessions will help the library as well as its users.

“Right now we are so short staffed that we are not able to offer classes ourselves,” Hodder said. “This is a great opportunity for us to give library users somebody with real experiences who they can come to with questions and maybe get some places to look for jobs that they aren't aware of.”

You can view the original article online here: Star News Article

JobStickers Podcast #1: WAZO 107.5 Wilmington 01-13-11 Radio Show Interview

DOWNLOAD:


LISTEN:


Welcome to the 1st official MJW Careers podcast! To set things off, I will be sharing my morning radio show interview with Foz and Jocelyn over at WAZO Z107.5 in Wilmington.

On the show, we discussed some resume tips as well as our “Free Resume” contest. For more info about these and other great job hunting tips, please visit www.jobstickers.com or our website www.mjwcareers.com.

For more information on the "Free Resume" contest, check out http://mjwcareers.blogspot.com/2011/01/announcing-free-resume-contest.html

ANNOUNCING THE "FREE RESUME" CONTEST & $10 REFERRALS FOR YOU!

MJW Careers will be giving away 1 free resume each week! Also, $10 referral bonuses for everyone! Here's how it works:

1. We will be posting a photo each or every other week (on one random day/time) on our Facebook Page here:

MJW Careers Resume Writing Services, Outplacement and Career Coaching Facebook Page

2. The first person to "tag" the photo with his or her name receives a free resume or a credit for a free resume for the future (or to be given to a friend in need).

3. Beginning next week, MJW Careers will be posting a weekly VLOG on our Youtube page that will contain a "secret keyword" at the end of each video (there will not be a secret keyword on EVERY video, so you have to monitor it closely). The first person to post that "secret keyword" on the Facebook page above will receive the free resume or credit. Here is the Youtube page:

MJW Careers Resume Writing Services, Outplacement and Career Coaching Youtube Page

4. Subscribe to this JobStickers Blog, MJW Careers Facebook Page and MJW Careers Youtube Page to stay up to date on all announcements and contests.

5. Referral Bonues: For every person you refer, you will receive $10 if that person decides to get a resume developed by MJW Careers. Meaning, if you tell your friend about MJW Careers Resume Writing, I will give you $10 if your friend purchases a resume from me. Make sure you let that person know to mention your name when contacting me!

Thanks!

Matt Warzel
President, MJW Careers
(216)246-9900
www.mjwcareers.com
warzel@mjwcareers.com

Internet Links for Job Seekers - General & Niche Job Boards

Links to improve your job search and career focus.

General Job Boards

www.careerbuilder.com

www.monster.com

www.hotjobs.com

www.indeed.com

www.linkedin.com

www.craigslist.org

www.myspace.com

www.gadball.com

www.whatdoyouwantfromthem.com

www.usjobboard.com

www.jobopenings.net

www.twithire.com

www.jobcentral.com

www.bestjobsusa.com

www.jobfox.com

www.wetfeet.com

www.careersite.com

www.careerexposure.com

www.jobbankinfo.org

www.jobrapido.com

www.truecareers.com

www.jobster.com

www.jobofmine.com

www.careerjet.com

www.employmentguide.com

www.job.com

www.justjobs.com

www.simplyhired.com

www.linkup.com

www.nationjob.com

www.jobsearchusa.org

www.jobbankusa.com

Niche Job Boards
Aerospace

www.aeroindustryjobs.com

www.ctsinternational.com

Agriculture/Forestry

www.agcareers.com

www.treecarejobs.com

www.forfarmers.com

www.agindustryjobs.com

Architecture

www.architecturejobs.com

www.e-architect.com

Aviation/Airline

www.faa.gov/jobs

www.avianation.com

www.airlinecareer.com

www.aviationcrossing.com

www.aviationemployment.com

www.aviationjobsearch.com

www.avjobs.com

www.aviationemploymentboard.net

Call Center

www.callcentercareers.com

www.callcenterclassifieds.com

www.callcenterjobs.com

Child Care

www.care.com

www.nannypro.com

www.greataupair.com

www.nannies4hire.com

Communications/Media/PR/Arts/Entertainment

www.talentzoo.com

www.thebiz.variety.com

www.actorsaccess.com

www.krop.com

www.journalismjobs.com

www.washingtonpost.com

www.newsjobs.com

www.prweekjobs.com

www.workinpr.com

www.casinocareers.com

www.jobsinparadise.com

www.proship.com

www.cruiselinejobs.com

www.cruisedreamjob.com

www.creativejobscentral.com

www.nowcasting.com

www.writejobs.com

www.backstage.com

www.tvjobs.com

www.tvandradiojobs.com

www.artjob.org

www.amfmjobs.com

www.massmediajobs.com

www.mediabistro.com

www.careerpage.org

www.getatvjob.com

www.artcareer.net

www.lacasting.com

Construction/Manufacturing/Warehouse

www.mepjobs.com

www.constructionexecutive.com

www.constructionjobs.com

www.jobsinmanufacturing.com

www.warehousejobs.com

www.manufacturingjobs.com

www.hvacagent.com

www.justprojectmanagerjobs.com

www.topbuildingjobs.com

www.infooil.com

www.offshore-marine.com

www.oilandgasjobsonline.com

www.oiljobfinder.com

Contract/Temporary/Freelancers/Home-Based

www.guru.com

www.sologig.com

www.elance.com

www.ifreelance.com

www.gofreelance.com

www.worldwideworkathome.com

www.jobsformoms.com

www.snagajob.com

www.backdoorjobs.com

www.nonprofitoyster.com

www.coolworks.com

www.execsearches.com

www.bridgestar.org

www.xgo.co.uk

www.tides.org

www.opportunityknocks.org

www.jobmonkey.com

www.groovejob.com

www.tjobs.com

www.homeworkers.org

www.net-temps.com

Diversity

www.hirediversity.com

www.diversitysearch.com

www.diversityjobs.com

www.diversityworking.com

www.latpro.com

www.workplacediversity.com

Education

www.eteach.com

www.higheredjobs.com

www.jobsmotion.com/teaching-jobs

www.schoolspring.com

www.teachers-teachers.com

Entry Level/Internships

www.collegerecruiter.com

www.aftercollege.com

www.internjobs.com

www.studentjobs.gov

www.washingtoninternship.com

www.makingthedifference.org

www.summerinternships.com

www.internsearch.com

www.campuscareercenter.com

www.rsinternships.com

www.experience.com

www.collegegrad.com

www.jobweb.com

Environmental/Green/Energy

www.ecoemploy.com

www.environmental-jobs.com

www.energyjobsearch.com

www.greenjobsready.com

www.greencollar.org

www.utilityjobsonline.com

www.greenjobs.com

www.greendreamjobs.com

www.grist.org

www.lowcarbon.com

www.coolclimatejobs.com

www.environmentalcareer.com

www.earthworks-jobs.com

www.ecoemploy.com

www.greenbiz.com

www.environmentjob.co.uk

www.sustainjobs.com

www.stopdodo.com

www.utility-worker.com

www.brightgreentalent.com

www.treehugger.com

www.greatgreencareers.com

www.acre-resources.co.uk

www.ecojobs.com

Fashion/Design

www.aigadesignjobs.org

www.coroflot.com

www.stylecareers.com

www.clothingindustryjobs.com

www.fashioncareercenter.com

Finance/Banking/Accounting

www.eFinancialCareers.com

www.jobsinthemoney.com

www.brokerhunter.com

www.bankjobs.com

www.accountingjobstoday.com

www.careersinaudit.com

www.taxtalent.com

www.careersintax.com

www.careerbank.com

Fitness/Wellness

www.fitnessjobs.com

www.exercisecareers.com

www.ptjobs.com

www.exercisejobs.com

Government

www.governmentjobs.com

www.techexpousa.com

www.fbijobs.gov

www.borderpatrol.gov

www.fedbizopps.gov

www.defensetalent.com

www.hud.gov

www.apps.opm.gov/sppc_directory

www.usmint.gov

www.ustreas.gov

www.recovery.gov

www.usgs.gov

www.brubach.com

www.doi.gov

www.wdrs.fnal.gov

www.govcentral.com

www.usdoj.gov

www.makingthedifference.org

www.studentjobs.gov

www.fws.gov

www.dol.gov

www.senate.gov

www.fda.gov

www.gao.gov

www.whitehouse.gov

www.gpo.gov

www.epa.gov

www.irs.gov

www.atf.gov

www.loc.gov

www.exim.gov

www.faa.gov

www.sealiftcommand.com

www.house.gov

www.nasa.gov

www.usda.gov

www.fcc.gov

www.archives.gov

www.anl.gov

www.nga.gov

www.fdic.gov

www.bnl.gov

www.nih.gov

www.uscourts.gov

www.amtrak.net

www.nlrb.gov

www.dcjobsource.com

www.fbo.gov

www.nhtsa.dot.gov

www.fec.gov

www.noaa.gov

www.bop.gov

www.fema.gov

www.nps.gov

www.census.gov

www.opm.gov

www.ferc.gov

www.nsf.gov

www.cms.hhs.gov

www.dfid.gov.uk

www.cia.gov

www.nsa.gov

www.federalreserve.gov

www.usaid.gov

www.ntsb.gov

www.ftc.gov

www.nrc.gov

www.cftc.gov

www.ed.gov

www.state.gov

www.ornl.gov

www.hhs.gov

www.opic.gov

www.cbo.gov

www.uspto.gov

www.dhs.gov

www.peacecorps.gov

www.cpsc.gov

www.va.gov

www.go-defense.com

www.usajobs.gov

www.sihr.si.edu

www.pbgc.gov

www.ssa.gov

www.supremecourtus.gov

www.nationalservice.gov

www.tsa.gov

www.govtjobs.com

www.usps.com

www.dla.mil

www.sec.gov

www.clearancejobs.com

www.cbp.gov

Hospitality/Food/Restaurant

www.hcareers.com

www.fastfoodjobs.co.uk

www.hsuperstars.com

www.hospitalityonline.com

www.mycateringjobs.com

www.hoteljobs.com

www.foodindustryjobs.com

www.foodindustrycareers.co.uk

www.starchefsjobfinder.com

www.foodservice.com

www.caterer.com

Human Resources/Recruiting

www.jobs4hr.com

www.ihirehr.com

www.shrm.org

www.ere.net

www.workforcehrjobs.com

www.recruitingjobs.com

Insurance/Underwriting

www.greatinsurancejobs.com

www.insuranceunderwritingweb.com

www.underwritingjobs.com

www.insurancejobs.com

www.ultimateinsurancejobs.com

International Development

www.devex.com

www.dev-zone.org

www.eldis.org

www.developmentaid.org

www.fpa.org

www.comminit.com

www.aic2000.org

www.hacesfalta.com

www.bond.org.uk

www.thirdsector.co.uk

www.tol.cz

www.ap.urscorp.com

www.icsc.un.org

www.overseasjobs.com

www.microfinancegateway.org

www.uvm.edu

www.intljobs.org

www.internationaljobs.org

www.oneworld.net

www.vso.org.uk

www.interaction.org

www.careersunited.org

www.globalrecruitment.net

www.devnetjobs.org

www.alertnet.org

www.idealist.org

www.devj.net

IT/Engineering

www.dice.com

www.theitjobboard.com

www.computerwork.com

www.gjc.org

www.databasejobs.com

www.engineerjobs.com

www.engineerjobsearch.com

www.dbjobs.org

www.prgjobs.com

www.tech-centric.net

www.justtechjobs.com

www.computerjobs.com

www.engcen.com

Law

www.lawjobs.com

www.attorneyjobs.com

www.emplawyernet.com

www.lawcrossing.com

Law Enforcement

www.911hotjobs.com

www.lawenforcementjobs.com

www.policeemployment.com

Leisure

www.leisurejobs.com

Linguists

www.toplanguagejobs.co.uk

www.jobsmotion.com/all-jobs/multilingual-jobs

Logistics/Distribution/Drivers

www.jobsinlogistics.com

www.classadrivers.com

www.supplychainjobs.com

www.everytruckjob.com

www.jobsintrucks.com

www.nationaltruckdrivingjobs.com

www.jobsinmanufacturing.com

www.maritimejobs.com

MBAs/Executives

www.MBACareers.com

www.6figurejobs.com

www.execsearches.com

www.theladders.com

www.execunet.com

Medical/Bio/Pharmaceutical/Healthcare

www.medzilla.com

www.biohealthmatics.com

www.globalhealth.org

www.practicematch.com

www.medicalworkers.com

www.healthcareerweb.com

www.pharmadiversityjobboard.com

www.careerpharm.com

www.hospitaljobsonline.com

www.therapyjobs.com

www.rxcareercenter.com

www.healthecareers.com

www.healthjobsusa.com

www.medhunters.com

www.medicalworkers.com

www.biospace.com

www.hospitaljobsonline.com

Military

www.destinygrp.com

www.militarystars.com

www.hireahero.org

www.marineea.org

www.militarycandidates.com

www.military.com/spouse

www.defensetalent.com

www.corporategrayonline.com

www.recruitmilitary.com

www.vetjobs.com

www.militaryjobzone.com

www.va.gov

www.moaa.org

www.army.mil

www.uscg.mil

www.military.com

www.taonline.com

www.afcrossroads.com

www.armypays.com

Mining

www.miningjobs.org

www.minejob.com

www.miscojobs.com

Non-Profit/Volunteer

www.idealist.org

www.backdoorjobs.com

www.volunteermatch.org

www.nonprofitjobs.org

www.reliefweb.int

www.charityjob.co.uk

www.alertnet.org

www.unjobs.org

www.nonprofit-jobs.org

www.opportunitynocs.org

Nursing

www.allnurses.com

www.nursingjobs.com

www.nursingjobs.org

www.expedientmedstaff.com

www.jobsmotion.com/nursing-jobs

www.nursing-jobs.us

Retail

www.allretailjobs.com

www.clothingindustryjobs.com

www.fashioncareercenter.com

Retirees

www.retirementjobs.com

www.retireandconsult.com

www.seniorjobbank.org

Sales/Marketing/Advertising

www.salesjobs.com

www.salestrax.com

www.topsalespositions.com

www.acareerinsales.com

www.marketingjobs.com

www.salesheads.com

www.jobs4sales.com

www.marketingjobs.com

www.talentzoo.com

Science

www.nature.com

www.sciencejobs.org

www.scjobs.sciencemag.org

Security

www.securityjobs.net

www.clearancejobs.com

www.clearedconnections.com

Sports

www.jobsinsports.com

www.sportscareerfinder.com

www.teamworkonline.com

www.workinsports.com

Telecommunications

www.telecomcareers.net

www.tech-centric.net

www.wirelessjobs.com

Technorati claim token YU7GRJ3FV5M9

Make Networking Work for You in 2011

Are you are someone who says, “I HATE networking”? Why? Maybe you feel intimidated, are too shy, lack confidence, or do not know what to say.

In addition to getting someone you know to introduce you to someone you do not know, networking means you do the same for other people. As you network, keep in mind jobs for which other people are looking. You may be able to help some of them get a new job or career. They may return the favor in the future!

Whether you like to or not, networking is a crucial component in career success. We promise, the more networking you do, the easier it becomes! So get out there and start now! The sooner you start, the sooner you are able to do it with ease. Here we offer tips for taking the “work” out of networking!

Networking is Easy! Just Remember, “Own It”!

Objective: Set your objective. Meet (X) number of people in (X) amount of time (per day/week/month) and swap (X) number of business cards.
When/Where: Schedule informal meetings with them including an agenda (talking points). Prepare a “script” to make speaking via phone more comfortable.
Notify: Notify them of your goals, skills, experience and accomplishments.
Inquire: Ask for advice, information and contacts. Do not ask directly for a job!
Take Away: Obtain at least two more names from them that you can contact.

• Update your resume and have it ready to distribute! If you do not have them already, get business cards. Sign up for deal alerts on VistaPrint.com, wait for Vista Print to offer a free business card deal, and order them!

• Be clear about who you are and what you want.
○ If you are wishy-washy when people ask what kind of job you are looking for, it only makes it harder for them to help you.
○ Never respond with, “I’ll do any job!” It not only makes you look desperate, but unsure about your career.
○ If your job preferences vary between industries, that is OK.
○ Determine if there is anything you are willing to compromise. (Perhaps, relocation?)

• Make sure your online marketing tools (e.g., Facebook or MySpace) are cleaned up and employer-ready. You do not want a potential employer to see something on your social networking sites that might land you in trouble.

• First tell the people closest in your life that you need a job. You gain the confidence to approach others later. Inform parents, siblings, parent’s friends, professors, career services at your college, past colleagues and bosses. Set up a face-to-face meeting to show that you are taking your networking seriously. This also helps them remember to mention you when they encounter a prospective employer.

Some Spots Online Where People Are Networking...And You Should Too

Always be networking! Network online and search for networks you are familiar with, depending on your profession. Use the following sites for researching and networking with business professionals, including companies and their employees:

• Ecademy
• Facebook
• iKarma
• Jigsaw
• LinkedIn
• MySpace
• NetworkingForProfessionals.com
• Ryze
• Spoke
• Twitter
• Xing
• Ziggs
• ZoomInfo

Join groups on Facebook, Yahoo Groups and LinkedIn and go onto Meetup.com, Eventful.com, and EventBrite.com to find groups related to your profession and network with those people. Tweet about the networking events on Twitter to get the word out there for others!

Experiencing Multiple Layoffs & Finding Help

Unfortunately, consecutive recent layoffs or settling for a lower income is becoming more common nowadays. Many Americans have lost two jobs in the past two years. This includes more high-level executives and management.

Those who have experienced multiple layoffs are usually willing to settle for less. With more executive-level employees losing their jobs, people with repeated layoffs have a harder time proving their worth to hiring managers. Many businesses view such individuals as lacking capability and integrity, rather than as victims of a recession.

Remedies for Repeat Job Loss
• Attend training to refresh outdated skills
• Consider a new location, industry or profession
• Keep your best contacts in the loop about your job hunt and make sure they have the latest version of your resume
• Send expert tips, information and newsletters on topics you know well to potential employers. Offer to take questions or give advice as a virtual consultant.
• Create a personal website focused on potential employers*
• Use an outplacement service or career coach, like you are now!

*A customized Web page (on your Website) highlighting your relevance to a specific company is a great way to attract attention. Give hiring managers a private link to this Web page, (for that company’s eyes only!). Describe how your experience would benefit their particular business and the issues they face.

Fighting the Stigma
You can fight the stigma of back-to-back layoffs by giving a sincere explanation during interviews: "I have been laid off twice in the worst economy in 50 years."

Before starting your job hunt, you must overcome any anger about your recurring joblessness. If you have negative feelings, those emotions are reflected in your job interviews. Do not sound desperate, but be positive and enthusiastic!

Try helping the less fortunate to neutralize such negative feelings during your job search. Charity efforts can tap into your key skills (e.g., project management, networking, marketing, organizing, etc.) and rebuild confidence. They are a great resume builder too! It shows you are doing something productive (in addition to other job hunting tasks) during your time out of work.

Find a volunteer activity involving a company where you want to work. Your participation allows you to network with employees and a get a sense of whether you fit into their culture. In making this effort to understand a possible employer, talk with vendors, competitors and former employees. Use this research to discuss the company's challenges when interviewing.

Surviving Multiple Interviews
One challenge for victims of multiple recent layoffs is surviving multiple interviews. As the applicant pool gets smaller with each round, people with recent repeat layoffs may be at a disadvantage.

Tell them about your skills that are better than others or that others probably do not have! For example, emphasize your frequent international business trips. Supply details about work with various country managers and customized efforts based on culture and market conditions.

Have perseverance! Even if you are turned down, stay positive and keep pressing on with your job search. Stay in touch with all potential employers. Circumstances may change for the hiring manager (e.g., the person they did hire ended up not taking the job).


Finding Help
Getting laid off may require using state services that you have never used before. Here are some starting places for finding help. (Most of the websites below are for North Carolina. Go online for corresponding websites for your state.)

Am I eligible for unemployment insurance benefits? If you have lost your job through no fault of your own, you may be eligible. Visit your state’s Employment Security Commission website. For example, North Carolina’s is:
http://www.ncesc.com/individual/UI/UiClaims2.asp

How do I file for unemployment insurance benefits?
There are three options:
• Online: https://www.ncesc.com/individual/webInitialClaims/applyBegin.asp?init=true
• By telephone: 1-877-841-9617 (toll free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week)
• In person: At your nearest Employment Security Commission (ESC) office http://www.ncesc1.com/locator/locatormain.asp

How do I start my search for a new job? While a newspaper provides lots of independent job-seeking ideas, your local ESC office and JobLink Career Center staff can help you locate new employment possibilities and prepare to apply for jobs.

Find your nearest JobLink location at:
http://www.nccommerce.com/en/WorkforceServices/FindInformationForIndividuals/JobLinkCareerCenters

I need training to move into a new career, but how can I pay for training without a job? Look for opportunities within your community and visit these websites:

Apprenticeships:
http://www.nclabor.com/appren/appindex.htm

Financial Aid:
www.cfnc.org

Free Online Training:
http://www.gcflearnfree.org
http://www.microsoft.com/ElevateAmerica

Service Obligation Loans:
http://www.cfnc.org/paying/schol/info_career.jsp
Trade Adjustment Act:
http://www.ncesc.com/individual/training/TAA.asp

Workforce Investment Act:
http://www.nccommerce.com/en/WorkforceServices/FindInformationForIndividuals/DislocatedWorkerToolkit/EmploymentTraining

How to Cope with Job Loss

Losing a job can lead to negative feelings (inadequacy, embarrassment, insecurity and devastation). Recovery can take time, making it easy to become depressed or anxious. Learning how to cope with job loss is crucial for avoiding this. It can lead to an even better future, like undiscovered opportunities or a new career path that you may not have thought about otherwise!

7 Supportive Steps
1. Try not to panic or get overwhelmed. Realize this is an opportunity and move on.
2. Allow yourself to experience natural feelings of denial, anger and grief.
3. Accept what happened. It was just a job; now look to the future.
4. Embrace your forced vacation. Relax, do projects around the house you have been neglecting, visit family or volunteer.
5. Stop all unnecessary purchases. New clothes, eating out, movies and other little luxuries add up quickly!
6. Start thinking about your next career. Update your resume, network and take classes that refresh your skills or prepare you for a new career path.
7. Start your job search. Contact employment agencies, find recruiters, search the Internet, check the classifieds and let people know you are ready for work.

Stress Relievers
Channeling any negative energy into something positive really helps fight off stress. Here are some stress relievers to try. Do what you enjoy and what works for you:
Exercise, walk, do yoga or Pilates
Help others or volunteer
Get a massage
Go back to church, practice your faith
Talk with others
Write in a journal (like in your Career Journal!)
Meditate and breathe deep – try saying "woosah" with your eyes closed
Play games and laugh
Listen to your favorite music or relaxing music
Plant a garden
Eat a balanced, healthy diet
Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake
Do not procrastinate

Calming Down During a Panic or Anxiety Attack
One of the most effective methods is deep breathing. The following exercise physically and mentally calms you. Putting your focus on the breathing and taking it off the anxiety makes the anxiety go away:
Breathe through your nose for a slow 1-2-3 count.
Hold your breath for a slow 1-2-3 count.
Exhale for a slow 1-2-3 count. Do this as long as you want; it really helps.
Stop the anxious thought and replace it with a more calming thought (weekend plans, a family trip, etc.). Or focus on something else: count backwards from 100 by 3's, say the alphabet backwards, focus on an object around you, etc.
If possible have someone you know/trust talk to you and comfort you.
Tense the various muscles in your body for a few seconds and then release, allowing yourself to relax.
If you are able to stand, get up and walk around slowly, while "slowly" deep breathing (change of focus).
Do not lock your jaws together; this worsens any nausea in your panic attack. Relaxing your face helps.

Negative Emotions
For most of us, job loss has a devastating emotional impact. You may experience some of the following emotions.
Rejection, failure, or a sense that you did a poor job
Embarrassment or weakened identity from no longer earning an income
Anger towards yourself, your former employer, the situation, the economy, etc.
Fear or anxiety about the future, your career, your ability to pay immediate financial needs and provide for your family
Depression, which can result in even more challenges for finding a new job (changes in eating/sleeping habits, low energy, avoiding people, neglecting hygiene and appearance)
Stress over any or all of the above emotions

Dealing with Negative Emotions
Any of these feelings are a normal response to job loss, but you must decide how to handle them. If you recently lost your job, you will come across people who recently lost theirs too, which can cause more stress. Job loss is always occurring, you just did not notice because it did not affect you personally. Ignore the fact that everyone around you is unemployed. Focus on yourself. Everyone has lost a job at some point, so do not take it personally. You are not the only one, although it may feel like it now.

You must make a choice when you lose a job: dwell on it or move on. Choose to move on! Feel the pain and then do something about it. Get yourself recharged and head out in full gear for the next lucky employer to see your value. You may realize one day, that this job loss is a blessing in disguise. Many times they are! Everything happens for a reason. So if you lose your job, pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and get back out there!


Coping Strategies
If your job loss was because of performance, learn from it for your future employment. If it was a layoff, it was out of your control. Company reorganization can result in eliminated positions.
Acknowledge your emotions, do not hide them. Take a few days to relax, recover and regroup.
Get support from friends, family and professional colleagues. Maintain the human contact and interaction like you had at work. Do not isolate yourself.
Maintain a healthy diet and avoid alcohol and drugs.
Maintain a positive attitude and receive positive outcomes. It drives you to do better and go farther. Even if you did not get a job today, you may tomorrow!
Finding a job is your full-time job now. When do you get a job, keep looking once in awhile. Always keep your options open.
If you feel depressed, (increased anger, changes in sleeping/eating, hopelessness or sadness) for longer than a week, seek professional help.
Networking is emotionally satisfying and the most effective job search technique. Instead of dwelling on your job loss, you are actively eliminating the cause of your stress. Networking gives you face-to-face human interaction, new friends, new conversation, information and insight!
During your job hunt, keep a calendar with you daily schedule. This really helps you organize, focus and execute your job search. Anything on paper (or Yahoo calendar) is easier to follow than a schedule in your head. You will be prepared and looking forward to upcoming events and tasks.

Play to Your Strengths
Even during a recession, people still have needs to be met. Ask yourself, “What are my career strengths and how can they be helpful to others?” This may mean branching into a related field that requires the same skill-set, or perhaps learning a new set of skills for a related job. You may even start your own business.

Career Counseling
If you experience difficulty in adjusting to unemployed life (job searching, cutting back expenses, etc.) or you feel lost in what direction to take your life, consider seeking the services of a professional life coach or psychotherapist. They can help you escape an emotional rut, and help you recognize your personal strengths and envision your true potential!

Job Loss Counseling: You’ve Been Laid Off?! Now What?!

Overview
A common question most people who find themselves at high risk for a job loss is, “What am I going to do next?” This is a good question and the first step towards persevering through a challenging period in one's life. However, overcoming a job loss depends on you handle this tough question. For instance, do not send out an outdated resume, but get your marketing strategies and proper collateral in place so you can set yourself up for success sooner than later.

Fear Factor
It is typical for most people to respond to the question, “What I am going to do next?” with apprehension. Responding to this potential life-changing question with fear is not the answer. Yes, you have bills to pay, a mortgage, a car loan… Perhaps you have kids in college. These are all real concerns, but do not just jump to the next job that comes along. Make a decision after a thorough review of your economic situation and prospects.

Back to Basics
Cutting back on expenses is the most challenging part of successfully preparing for a potential job loss. Anything involving change usually scares people, even in a time of crisis. It is easy to go into denial about your job security and financial matters, but you must address your expenses to prepare for a job loss.

Figure out unnecessary expenses, such as additional features on your cable services or cell plan. Think about things that usually go to waste, like not finishing food before its expiration date. Realize your spending habits, break them down and adjust them where necessary. This may be overwhelming at first, but once you start you will be eager to see where you can save money and stop bad spending habits.

Talk with your whole family about expenses that need to be spared, until you are back in a more secure position. Look at your spending in the last two months on your bank or credit card statement. Some organize your spending history by type of expense. There are also programs like Microsoft® Money, which help track and budget your expenses.

Researching a Prospective Employer & Using a Combination of Strategies

Researching a Prospective Employer
To write a customized résumé and cover letter for a job position, you need to know about the company advertising it. Research to find out:
• What does the company do?
• How did the organization get started?
• What are its products and services?
• What are the company’s plans?
• Does it appear to be in good financial shape?
• What are some of the industry trends that affect this organization?
• What are some of the organization’s greatest challenges?

Find their website using a search engine like Google. You can also call the company and ask for their Website address. It is often listed in business journals, the Yellow Pages and on company brochures and business cards. If you do not have access to the Internet, use a computer at a public library, your state’s JobLink Career Center or college career center.

You can also learn about the organization by asking questions of people who already work there. People in your network may also be able to provide you with names of people within the organization who could talk with you.

Using a Combination of Strategies
Using a combination of methods is essential for a successful job search; you cannot just do one thing anymore. Develop a strategy that works best for the occupation you are seeking. Consult with people in your field or with a career counselor to see what they suggest.
• If we have not said it enough already, network! The more people who know you are looking for work, the better your chances of finding work.
• Use Internet search engines, job board sites, company websites, industry specific websites, blogs and social networking sites. Reference: See our Internet as a Source document for more details.
• After researching a business, call and ask to speak with the hiring manager directly, inquire about possible openings and ask to set up an appointment.
• Register with your local JobLink Career Center, Employment Security office or other employment placement agency. (Some private agencies may charge a fee.)
• Attend local and school job fairs.
• Search job postings in newspapers, professional/trade journals and other publications.
• Look in the business section in the paper for companies moving into the area, expanding operations or have received patent approvals or other awards; these companies are probably hiring.
• Take a drive through nearby industrial parks, shopping centers and office complexes for worthy companies you can contact.

Job Hunting? Here Are Some Webcasts That Can Help You!

The following is a list of online webcasts provided by third-party companies who are proven experts in the field of human capital management. Check into appropriate listings that suit your job hunting needs.

• http://www.astd.org/content/careers/Careerwebcasts.htm
• http://www.beyondthejob.org
• http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobposter/events/webinar
• http://www.citrix.com
• http://www.elt-inc.com/news/webinars.html
• http://www.ere.net/webinars
• http://www.humancapitalinstitute.net
• http://www.inter.viewcentral.com/events/cust/catalog.aspx?cid=monster&pid=1&signupkey=cthq&lid=4
• http://www.peopleclick.com/resources/webcasts.asp
• http://www.taleo.com
• http://www.technet.microsoft.com/en-ca/cc837417.aspx

Tips for Avoiding Recruiters’ Blacklists

There are reasons why recruiters or hiring managers do not call back some job seekers: blacklists! In today’s tough job market, desperate job seekers are pursuing what little jobs are available. Hiring managers have plenty of applicants to choose from, so they are justifiably selective and quick to record any negatives they discover.

If you are blacklisted, recruiters do not submit you to jobs today, even years from now. Even if you are not on an actual “list”, recruiters do remember if you left a bad impression. They also pass the word along to fellow recruiters, and they remember bad candidates even if they change companies.

Do’s and Don’ts
Recruiters never want to hire any of the 3 L’s: liars, losers and loners. Prove that you are none of those by following these tips:
• DO NOT lie about or exaggerate your experience. Outright lying about experience or skills that you do not have guarantees you a spot on the blacklist.
• DO NOT pit fellow recruiters against each other. Contrary to what you might think, it does not increase your chances of getting a job. You can work with more than one recruiter, but not ones at the same company, unless they are at different office locations (e.g., MJW Careers Wilmington and MJW Careers Raleigh).
• DO NOT mass distribute your resume. Applying to too many jobs with the same recruiter or company makes you look unfocused and creates unnecessary work for them. Make every job application a meaningful one.
• DO remain courteous and professional, even if your recruiter is not. They are dealing with tons of applicants, so do not take unreturned phone calls or missed interviews personally. Do not attack your recruiter for this behavior; it only leaves a bad impression of you.
• DO always be interview-ready. Every conversation with a recruiter is an interview, even a casual chat at a networking event. Always be discussing your qualifications. What you may consider harmless joking, might rub your recruiter the wrong way.
• DO clean up your online presence. Recruiters check LinkedIn, Facebook, Google, etc. Even if it is old, if it is inappropriate, get rid of it.
• DO communicate what job you are looking for. Having a good relationship with recruiters does not mean you have to accept every job they present. If you are not interested, say so; it saves everyone time.
• DO build relationships with recruiters. Always keep your job options open, whether you are employed or not. This means keeping in touch recruiters at all times.

More Turnoffs
• Forgetting or missing scheduled interviews
• Making a faux pas during an interview
• Handling rejection badly
• Rejecting an opportunity after extensive efforts by a recruiter to arrange it for you
• Taking a counteroffer from another company
• Demonstrating poor business skills
• Publicly criticizing other people or companies
• Failing a background check (in which you cannot re-apply for a certain time period)

Removing Your Name from a “Do Not Hire” List
Negative notations beside your name can seriously derail your job search. Unfortunately, it is also very hard to discover or remove a bad mark. With so many candidates today, recruiters and hiring managers are even less forgiving. Getting back on their good side requires some extra effort.

Finding Out
• Speak to key internal contacts and colleagues
• Ask a reference-checking service to find out if a previous boss made unfair remarks about you

Correcting the Situation
• Demonstrate your true reliability and professionalism
• Offer detailed information about candidates for a different job opening and conduct extra reference checks as a courtesy
• Treat them to lunch or coffee
• Request honest feedback about becoming a stronger candidate next time
• Review a background check used to reject you and remove inaccurate records
• Consider switching industries or locations
Contact MJW Careers to revise your possible misleading resume

Guerrilla Marketing for Job Hunters

As competition grows in this ailing economy, guerilla marketing is a new alternative. Just make sure the company culture accepts your methods, so they think you are clever and not crazy! Think of original ways to market yourself in a creative manner. You can get the job you want by not doing what everyone else is doing! Stand out!

Billboards
Place your picture and a brief career summary on a billboard. Although expensive, it shows employers your creativity, passion and drive to land the perfect job.

Personal Resume Website
Create a website tailored towards your skills and resume. Some can be expensive, but the chances on being found increase due to the Internet being used a main search tool for recruiters. Post a portfolio of projects you have worked on to show skills you can offer to a prospective employer.

Windshield Marketing
Distribute flyers on cars promoting yourself, skill sets or resume.

Donuts and Breakfast
Bring the office donuts or breakfast every Friday, specifically to the department where you want to work. They get to know you and your work ethic better. This is a popular practice of clients and vendors to stay fresh in the company’s mind.

T-shirt Promotion
Use a single-shirt maker service such as Cafepress.com, to create a piece of apparel that highlights your career assets and credentials.

Sandwich Boards
Stand (or dance!) on a street corner with a sign presenting your credentials or career summary. Make sure it is a popular and SAFE corner.

Job Hunting Advice: Experiential Learning

Consider experiential, work-based learning to learn more about occupations that interest you. This can be done through internships, volunteering, part-time jobs, study abroad and more.

Gaining experience, while exploring career options, gives you a head start on your future career. Local schools and colleges offer many of these programs. Find more by searching the Internet and contacting businesses and organizations in your community.

Work-based learning is also beneficial if you want or need to change careers. Use your skills and gain new ones while building your job search network.

Participating in work-based learning opportunities gives you an edge when applying for jobs. Not only do you gain valuable work experience, but it offers a world of networking opportunities. Hiring managers always look upon this experience favorably. If you are recently laid off, this is a resourceful way to spend time away from work.

Internships
Internships allow you to observe and perform actual job duties that interest you, similar to a regular employee. Companies usually provide interns more help and guidance while training and may also help you land a full-time job upon completion of the internship. They may even provide a mentor that can support your career decisions and goals.

Employers like to hire people with experience, especially from within the company, including their most successful interns. Internships are typically available to college students in a related major, but companies do hire non-students for internships.

Internships are paid or unpaid and may be eligible for academic credit at a high school or college. They usually last for a couple of weeks to several months.

Cooperative Education and School-Based Enterprises
Cooperative education (“co-op”) is run by individual schools as part of their vocational education programs. Students gain academic credit by working part-time jobs during the school year in their vocational field. The jobs are arranged by their instructor or by the school's co-op coordinator. It follows a training plan that states what the student is expected to learn and what the employer is expected to provide. Business and marketing education programs are generally the largest sponsors of co-ops.

In school-based enterprises, students produce goods or services for other people. Such enterprises include school restaurants, construction projects, child care centers, auto repair shops, hair salons, and retail stores. They prepare students for the transition from school to work or college. They provide a first work experience or an opportunity to build management, supervision and leadership skills.

These programs differ from co-ops and apprenticeships in that they do not place students with employers. Rather, it allows students to apply their classroom knowledge to running real-world businesses. School-based enterprises are a practical option in communities where there are too few employers to provide sufficient jobs and training opportunities in the private sector.

Apprenticeships
These programs offer a combination of academic instruction, structured vocational training and paid work experience, usually lasting one to two years. These programs are offered through employers in collaboration with your state’s Department of Labor and Department of Public Instruction.

Military
Some military veterans and certain members of the Reserve/National Guard may be eligible for educational assistance for state-approved apprenticeships in addition to their VA benefits. To see if you are eligible for GI benefits, contact the Department of Veterans Affairs at 1-888-GIBILL-1 (1-800-442-4551) or visit http://www.gibill.va.gov.

Job Shadowing
This is when you spend a day (or part of a day) at work with someone in a career that interests you. You follow that person throughout the workday and observe what his/her tasks and skills required for the job, experience the work environment and interact with other people who currently work in your potential career field. At appropriate times during the day, ask questions about the work and make a list of possible questions in advance while noting other questions that come up during the day. Job shadowing may not give you a complete picture of a job or career, but it at least gives you a sneak preview.

Volunteering
Volunteering is a good way to experience many careers. Volunteer opportunities are available everywhere: businesses, hospitals, schools, government agencies and community and nonprofit organizations. In some cases, you may be able to do the specific job that interests you. For jobs that require more education or training, ask the supervisor to place you in a related job that still exposes you to your career interests. Check for opportunities at your library and in your local newspaper.

Part-Time Jobs
Working teaches you a lot about your interests and helps you develop skills for many careers while earning some money for school and living expenses. Many part-time jobs do not require a lot of training and skill to get started. Part-time is typically considered anything less than 40 hours a week.

Job Hunting Help: Tapping Into the Hidden Job Market

For every employer who must downsize, there is an employer who needs to hire the right person for the right job. In any circumstance, businesses are always hiring someone that can make them profitable now!

“We have a hiring freeze,” does not mean they are not hiring. It means they are not increasing their headcount. Every year has 20-25% turnover, so in a 1,000-employee company, 200-250 people are going to turn over naturally. Those companies are still hiring but they may not tell you. In fact, 80% of jobs are not publicly advertised.

Networking is crucial for finding the hidden job market. Use your current network and the following contacts.

Contacts in the Hidden Job Market
• Companies you have interviewed with in the past. If you were close to getting a job there, go back and see if they have any current openings. They are glad to re-consider you.
• Previous managers and co-workers. They already know your worth, making easier to recommend you to others. If you are still employed, make sure they are individuals who honor that confidentiality.
• Members of organizations you were active in: fraternities, sororities, professional business associations, charity groups, fundraisers, athletic clubs, etc. In addition, contact their local sponsors. Find the employers, which in turn lead you to the jobs.
• Recruiters focused on your industry. Give them candidate referrals and they will help you in your job search. The nature of their work makes them an invaluable source of information and contacts.
• Business organizations in your field. Join them and more importantly, stay involved. Join committees, become a committee leader or get on the Board of Directors. You meet relevant people while creating a brand for yourself showing your commitment to your industry.
• Non-profit organizations, especially if you are in the private sector. They value talent from any industry to help with management, marketing, sales and consulting. Target organizations which support your passion or cause. Visit http://npo.net/.
• Government sector: the Peace Corps, the FBI, the security division or local government. They pay great benefits and pensions. Their pay scale and number of jobs has increased from the stimulus package. There will be sufficient jobs available until our economy gets stronger.
• Your own advisory board of mentors. Connect with a few individuals within your industry with whom you respect and can contact to guide you through your career.
• Companies that accept volunteers. They will appreciate your help. Act as you would if you were being interviewed; they are considering you as a future employee.
• International companies opening locations in your area. Building their staff with local talent saves them money (no relocation expenses). Applying directly with them also saves them recruiting costs. They also benefit from employees who know about the area and its market.

Make Job Hunting Your Number One Priority

Finding a job is your job right now. So work 8 hours a day doing something relating to your job search and self-marketing. The more you put yourself out there, the higher the chances of being seen.

Ways to make your job search a full-time job:
• Stick to a daily schedule. Create a to-do list and cross them off as you go; this gives you a sense of accomplishment even during down-times.
• Check job boards daily and see if any new jobs were posted, in case your alert notification service missed anything.
• Send printed resumes in the mail. Few people do this any more, which is why it is effective for you.
• Target companies you want to work for and know where you can add value, then network or market yourself into an interview.
• Contact recruiters and temporary work agencies. Recruiters work for you and the good ones do not charge you to help you find employment. However, do not bug recruiters constantly. If they need someone with your skills, they will call you. They might not have an opening right away that fits your qualifications, but if they do, they will call you.
• Only apply to the openings that fit within your realm. Recruiters do get the "jack of all trades" candidates who, in actuality, only fit the bill for one or two jobs at most. So be aware of your resume submissions. Do not market yourself as a “jack of all trades” or a “fast learner”. Market yourself as an expert in a certain industry/field. Hiring managers are not going to figure out where you might fit, they want to know if you fit their immediate need.
• Apply to higher positions than your current position. For your next job, why not go from a rank-and-file worker to a manager? If you are an exempt or professional worker, set your sights high and become a leader.
• Follow the job posting directions and make sure you do what they tell you to do, if you want to apply to their job. They implement rules for a reason.
• Read industry magazines. Keep up with trends and developments in your field.
• Network with industry experts and other people that can help you find a job and create your own advisory board to consult with when you need information or assistance.
• Create an online presence. Sign up for industry blogs, social networking sites and career sites.
• In a worst-case scenario, be flexible to relocating. It is a part of job hunting these days.

Right Place, Right Time…Right Person
Right place: Any place can be the right place, so make the most of where ever you are. An interview, career fair, career mixer, even the grocery store can be a networking opportunity that can turn into a new job or career.

Right time: It is always the right time. Whether they are hiring or advertising a position or not, network with the company decision makers.

Right person: Find the top 10 companies you want to work for and prioritize them. Research the company’s senior management on LinkedIn and Google. Contact them via LinkedIn, their company email, or call the company and ask to speak to them directly.

If you reach someone who can tell you about what the hiring manager is looking for, ask them:
• What are they looking for in a candidate?
• What are they definitely not looking for?
• What turns them off about a candidate?
• Are they having any issues in filling this position?

Once you reach the hiring manager, give them your elevator speech. It is very difficult because you are writing (a resume, cover letter or email) or talking to someone you do not know. So it must be customized for the position they are filling!