Everyone Wants a Funny Boss

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


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

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

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

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

Is Your Boss Funny?

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

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

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

Humoring the Boss

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

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

Manage the Punch Lines

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

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

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

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

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Promotion Denied. What Next?

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


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

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

1. Be gracious.

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

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

2. Get answers.

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

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

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

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

3. Make your move.

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

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

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

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

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Give Thanks, Get the Job

Recruiter Roundtable Discusses Thank-You Notes
by Yahoo! HotJobs


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

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

Market Yourself Well

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

No Question About It

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

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

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

A Good Way to Stand Out

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

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

Boost Your Impact Easily

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

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Bullet-Proof Yourself Against a Layoff

by Caroline Levchuck, Yahoo! HotJobs


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. An active network.

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

4. A backup plan.

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

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

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'Green Collar' Jobs Are Poised for Growth

by Larry Buhl, for Yahoo! HotJobs

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

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

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

Wide Range of New Jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Growth on the Horizon

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

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

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

Get in on the Action

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

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

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

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

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

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Pushing Past a Career Slump

by Denene Brox, for Yahoo! HotJobs


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

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

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

Understand What Motivates You

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

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

Challenge Yourself

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

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

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

Keep Your Cool

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

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

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

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

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Five Ways to Make Unemployment Work for You

by Katherine Tom, for Yahoo! HotJobs


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

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

1. Work Your Network

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

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

2. Get an Internship or Volunteer

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

3. Go Back to School

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

4. Explore Your Hobbies

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

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

5. Travel

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

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Are You Ready to Be Your Own Boss?

by Caroline Levchuck, Yahoo! HotJobs


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

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

1. Are you committed?

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

2. Are you bold?

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

3. Are you disciplined?

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

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

4. Are you financially secure?

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

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

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

5. Are you experienced?

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

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

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

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Holiday Party Fouls Die Hard

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


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

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

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

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

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

You Are Being Watched

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

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

Be Merry and Wise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Career Do's and Don'ts from 2007

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Five Secrets of Successful Job Hunters

by Joe Turner, for Yahoo! HotJobs


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

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

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

The Five Secrets

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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How to Relaunch Your Career in the New Year

by Caroline Levchuck, Yahoo! HotJobs


Was 2007 a professional bust for you? Was your career stuck in neutral? Never fear, the new year is here, and with it comes endless possibilities for growth, upward mobility, and more.

Deborah Brown-Volkman, a certified professional coach, says, "What's great about the new year is that it's like a do-over. You've completed the last year, and now you can start all over again."

Regain Your Focus

The first step in reviving a stagnant career is to regain your focus. Finding it begins with identifying what you want, according to Brown-Volkman, who's been coaching clients for almost 10 years.

"Ask yourself what you want, what you want to be different this year. Start listening to yourself. Do you want a better relationship with your boss? A leadership role at your company? A new job altogether? You have to get clear on what you want," she counsels.

If identifying what you want is too intimidating or overwhelming, Brown-Volkman suggests figuring out what you don't want as a way of backing into your professional desires. Ultimately, knowing what you want, she says, "will give you focus."

Make an Action Plan

Next, you must formulate an action plan and follow through it. Don't wait for opportunity to knock on your door, warns Brown-Volkman. "People wait for it to come to them, but they have to start moving toward it. Action is what builds momentum."

As you move toward your big picture goals, there are small actions that can help you move forward. "Changing your attitude will make a big difference. If you focus on the bad, it will be bad for you. Focus on the positive and that will give you energy."

Eliminate Clutter

"Clean your desk," she adds. "That's such a big thing in terms of helping folks focus and get clear."

Brown-Volkman also believes professionals can change the way they work. "Stop answering emails one by one -- set up specific times during the day to address them. Also, if you're on a roll, don't answer the phone every time it rings, unless it's your boss. The constant interruptions will derail your focus and make you feel less efficient."

Get the Necessary Support

If your plan for advancement involves your boss, be sure you position it properly to her. Coach Brown-Volkman reveals, "When enlisting your supervisor's support, you have to make sure you focus on what's important to your boss and the company. If it's all about you, it won't work." If you feel isolated in your job or your quest for change, enlist the people around you. "Reach out to your colleagues for support," she says.

Brown-Volkman urges everyone to start the new year with a new plan for their career. "People who are unhappy are people who feel trapped, who haven't created a game plan for what's next. Any time you don't have a bigger picture in mind, the day-to-day gets to you, and your career can come to a standstill."

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Three Signs of a Miserable Job

by Tom Musbach, Yahoo! HotJobs


"Awful," "dreary," and "miserable" are adjectives that many people use to describe their jobs at one time or another. Dissatisfaction on the job is common and often temporary. But not many people take time to analyze what makes a job miserable, and how to fix it.

Fortunately Patrick Lencioni has done much of that work in his book "The Three Signs of a Miserable Job."

Job Misery Is Universal

The author notes that a "miserable" job differs from a "bad" job, as one person's dream job may not appeal to another worker. A miserable job, however, has some universal traits.

"A miserable job makes a person cynical and frustrated and demoralized when they go home at night," Lencioni says. "It drains them of their energy, their enthusiasm, and self-esteem. Miserable jobs can be found in every industry and at every level."

Lencioni blames much of the problem on managers, who are a key factor in the job satisfaction (or dissatisfaction) of their employees. A recent Yahoo! HotJobs survey points to a similar conclusion: 43% of workers said discontent with their boss was the main reason they planned to look for a new job in 2008.

The Three Signs

Lencioni identifies the three signs of job misery as anonymity, irrelevance, and "immeasurement."

Anonymity: Employees feel anonymous when their manager has little interest in them as people with unique lives, aspirations, and interests.

Irrelevance: This condition occurs when workers cannot see how their job makes a difference. "Every employee needs to know that the work they do impacts someone's life -- a customer, a coworker, even a supervisor -- in one way or another."

Immeasurement: This term describes the inability of employees to assess for themselves their contributions or success. As a result they often rely on the opinions of others -- usually the manager -- to measure their success.

Three Remedies for Job Misery

For workers who may be experiencing the signs of job misery, Lencioni recommends three steps to improve the boss-employee dynamic and enhance job satisfaction.

1. Assess your manager. Is the boss interested in and capable of addressing the three factors mentioned above? "Most managers really do want to improve, in spite of the fact that they may seem disinterested or too busy," Lencioni says.

2. Help your manager understand what you need. This could mean reviewing with your manager what the key measurements for success are for your job. Lencioni also suggests asking your boss, "Can you help me understand why this work I'm doing makes a difference to someone?"

3. Act more like the manager you want. "Employees who take a greater interest in the lives of their managers are bound to infect them with the same kind of human interest they seek," the author says. Or find ways to let your manager know how his or her performance makes a positive difference for you.

Be Realistic

Richard Phillips, founder of Career Advantage Solutions, agrees that "managing up" is a good way to improve job satisfaction, but he cautions employees to be realistic in their expectations.

"Managers are not mind readers," he says. "Take the responsibility to communicate upon yourself, and remember there has to be an ongoing dialogue, or change is unlikely to happen."

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Earn a Promotion in a Year

Doing Good Work Isn't the Only Requirement
by Margaret Steen, for Yahoo! HotJobs

If a promotion is one of your goals for the next year, are you doing everything you can to make it happen?

It would be nice if hard work and talent would automatically lead to a job with more pay, more responsibility, and a better title. But in most cases, it takes more than that to move to the next level.

Make Yourself Known

Look at the job you'd like to have a year from now. Who selects candidates for this position? Who does that person work with and ask for advice?

"Then you systematically sit down and think about how you're going to make contact," says Helen Harkness, founder of Career Design Inc., in Dallas. There are lots of ways to do this. You can volunteer to serve on a committee with the people you need to know, for example. You can forward them articles or information that relate to their expertise.

Help Your Boss Succeed

Often, your boss is the person who will decide if you'll be promoted. But even if not, your boss will almost certainly be consulted. So impressing your boss is a top priority.

Marianne Adoradio, a recruiter and career counselor in Silicon Valley, suggests focusing on your company's key goals, then talking with your boss to find out which are most important in your department. "It's really important to be aware of what is going to make your boss successful, what is most important to him or her."

Start Doing the Job

You don't want to stage an office coup and start making personnel decisions that are your boss' responsibility. But you need to show that you can work at a higher level than your current position.

"People are easily promoted when they show that they can already do parts of the job they want to move into," says Steve Levin, principal of Leading Change Consulting & Coaching, in Portola Valley, California. "If you want to move from being a manager to a group manager, start taking on responsibility for what a group manager does. Start thinking like they do."

Then you can make the case that "I'm already doing the job; I just need the title."

"That's pretty irresistible to your boss," Levin says.

Have a Plan B

Many people think there's a system in place at work that will take care of them and their career path, Harkness says. "They expect it to happen 1-2-3, automatically. They do the right thing, and they're going to get that promotion. It doesn't work that way."

In fact, Harkness says, it can happen that "you do everything you're supposed to do and it doesn't work." It's important to understand that the workplace is uncertain -- and to know what your backup plan is if you don't get the promotion you want.

If the promotion was a stretch and your boss is encouraging even while turning you down, it may be worth spending another year gaining experience. But you may also want to explore career options outside the company.

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How to Discuss Politics at Work

by Melanie London, Vault.com


As the 2008 election gears into full swing, the workplace can start to resemble a blue and red battleground. In many offices, even the boss has no qualms about making his or her political beliefs known, which can increase tension on the job.

According to a recent Vault survey, 35% of bosses openly share their political views with employees, and 9% of workers feel pressure to conform to the boss' views. Regarding coworkers, 30% of respondents said that a coworker has tried to influence their choice in an election.

"My boss insisted that he had to know who I voted for in the election," said one survey respondent. "Then he proceeded to tell me that if I didn't vote his way, I had no business working for the company."

With 66% of survey respondents saying that their coworkers candidly discuss politics, and 46% saying they witnessed political arguments between colleagues, the topic can be unavoidable at the office.

Below are some tips if you find yourself in the middle of a political maelstrom.

1. Don't feel pressured into sharing your views if you don't want to.

If you'd rather not contribute your thoughts on a particular issue or your choice in an upcoming election, then don't. The pressure of a political share-fest can feel overwhelming, but you can politely excuse yourself from the conversation by saying (with a smile), "Sorry, I'm staying out of this one; my mom/dad/grandma/etc. told me never to talk about politics at work." If that won't fly with the co-workers, there's always the "Got to go ? I forgot about those TPS reports that are due" excuse. Then hightail it out of there.

2. Don't try to push your views on your coworkers or employees.

It's great to feel passionate about politics, but your idea of enthusiasm can be someone else's idea of harassment. And the last thing you want is for your coworkers to think you're a big bully about your beliefs. One "Vote for Smith in '08" (note nonthreatening made-up candidate name) sticker at your desk is OK, but handing out petitions is not. You may think you're not pressuring anyone or forcing them to participate, but in your own subtle way you are.

3. Don't assume people feel the same way you do.

The punk rock girl with the nose ring? Definitely a Democrat. That clean-cut guy who always wears a suit? Must be a Republican. Wrong. These are stereotypes, and they are totally and completely unreliable. Don't approach someone and start bashing a candidate or fervently discussing this week's hot-button issue when there is the slightest chance that they may not agree with your point of view. This will make for a very uncomfortable situation for both parties (no pun intended).

4. Don't criticize if you don't agree.

If you do discover that someone at work has vastly different political views than you, do not disparage them. If you find yourself in the middle of a political argument at work, back off as quickly as possible with a simple, "Well I guess we disagree on this, but it's no big deal. It would be silly to let it affect our working relationship."

If the exchange becomes heated before you can control the situation you may just have to walk away. Even if you're sure you are right, the workday is not the time and the office is not the place.

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The Right Way to Resign

How to Leave Your Job in Good Standing
by Caroline Levchuck, Yahoo! HotJobs


After you've landed a new job, the excitement of starting something new may be accompanied by anxiety and guilt over leaving the familiar and perhaps some good friends, too. Even if you're leaving mostly enemies behind, it's still a good idea to leave your job in good standing.

Corporate alumni associations are sprouting up all over the Fortune 500, at companies including GE, Procter & Gamble, and Yum! Brands, and it's in your best interest to be a part of these burgeoning professional networks. In fact, if you handle your transition properly, your former employers may even view your ascension elsewhere as a PR asset.

"Whatever the circumstances are around your departure, keep your mind on the big picture and don't do anything that could come back to haunt you," says career coach Deborah Brown-Volkman.

She recommends three steps for wrapping things up at your old job and departing with a pat on the back from your boss.

1. Write down everything you do and how it all gets done.

Forget job descriptions. They rarely tell us precisely what an individual does day-to-day or reveal the "It's not really my job, but I kind of do it anyway" responsibilities that grace any worker's plate each week. Also, in an age of zero redundancy at many companies, you cannot rely on even your supervisor to understand what it is you do and how you go about doing it.

Brown-Volkman says, "Often a boss feels like, 'I don't know what this person does -- I only know she can't leave!'"

So, do your boss and colleagues right by creating an exhaustive list of everything you handle, along with detailed instructions on how to handle it. Your coworkers will appreciate you for having this thorough document -- and for having done so much during your tenure.

2. Remain until you train the new you.

Two weeks' notice may be the minimum an employer requests, but most companies will appreciate a more lengthy lead-time so that you can help train your replacement. If you do so, your boss will be indebted to you. You're also sending a message that you want your former coworkers and employer to succeed.

Brown-Volkman, author of "Coach Yourself to a New Career," adds, "It's hard to give a lot of notice because your next employer may be waiting anxiously for you to start, and many people want to take a week off between jobs." However, she urges departing workers, "Spend as much time as you can with your replacement or colleagues who will be temporarily handling your workload. Train them so they've got it down cold."

Also, tap your own network for a potential replacement. You may even be eligible for a finder's fee if you refer the right person for the job.

3. Wish everyone well when you leave.

Brown-Volkman advises all her clients, "It's important to complete with your former coworkers on your last day." Give everyone a heartfelt farewell and say a few words of encouragement and appreciation to all your colleagues. "Even if you don't like someone, bury the hatchet. It takes a big person to do that, but you never know when you'll meet this individual again."

Also, she points out that former coworkers are the best candidates to join your professional network. "You will always have common ground with these folks. They're easy to stay in touch with. There will always be some bit of news or gossip you can bond over, and that makes it less awkward to pick up the phone and chat."

"All of this really is for the future, the big picture," she adds. "You could end up working for some of these people. You may need a favor. You just don't know, so make sure you leave on the best possible terms."

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How to Decide If You Need a Career Change

by Debra Davenport, for Yahoo! HotJobs


If you're not thrilled with your career, if you don't wake up excited about the day's prospects, or if you feel that your work has no intrinsic value, then it's time to get serious about making a change.

Knowing a Good Fit

The right career is a positive, productive and natural extension of you, your value system and your natural talents. The right career "fits"; it may not come effortlessly, but it does come naturally. It provides you with purpose, a positive self image and a sense of pride.

Just like finding your ideal mate, finding your ideal career has a lot to do with compatibility on many different levels. Your career must be a comfortable match with your personality, lifestyle, interests, skills, spiritual inclinations and values.

Signs of a Bad Fit

You know you're in the wrong career if:

• It is strictly a means to put food on the table
• It's just some job you took 10 years ago because, at the time, it was the only one you could find.
• Your parents are proud, but you're bored to tears.
• Your job makes you unhappy, damages your self-esteem, compromises your values, or undermines your integrity.
• You live for the weekend.

Assess Yourself

Here's another checklist to help you assess your current employment situation. Check the statements that apply to you (and ignore for now the letter after each statement):

1. I look forward to going to work most every day. (S)
2. My employer treats me fairly and with respect. (S)
3. I live for the weekend, or any days away from work. (G)
4. I feel valued and appreciated for my professional contributions. (S)
5. My workplace feels "toxic." (G)

6. I can be myself at work and not have to worry about being judged. (S)
7. I am included in my company's "information loop." (S)
8. My employer discusses with me and provides opportunities for advancement and professional development. (S)
9. I am commended for the extra effort I perform. (S)
10. I am stimulated intellectually and creatively by my work. (S)

11. I feel that I am making a positive contribution to society. (S)
12. I am compensated well for my work. (S)
13. I find myself daydreaming frequently about a new career. (G)
14. I feel that my work is a natural extension of who I am as a human being. (S)
15. I see myself as successful. (S)

16. I feel trapped and stuck in my current position. (G)
17. I feel in control of my career destiny. (S)
18. I am working at the level of my full potential. (S)
19. My current career negatively impacts those close to me. (G)
20. I have a desire to try something new and different. (G)

Now, count the number of "S" and "G" responses you have. "S" means "Stay" and "G" means "Go." This checklist is a reliable indicator of whether or not your present job is a good fit for you. Clearly, the more "G" ("Go") responses you checked, the more critical it is for you to start thinking about new opportunities.

Debra Davenport, PhD, is a Master Professional Mentor career counselor, and the president of DavenportFolio, a licensed firm that mentors entrepreneurs and professionals. She is the creator of the Certified Professional Mentor designation and certification program. Reach her at debra@davenportfolio.com or (480) 348-7875.

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Finding and Creating the Work You Love

Eight Steps to Your Dream Job

by Brian Kurth, for Yahoo! HotJobs

Identifying your dream job and the path that will take you there is both a challenge and an opportunity. But by following a realistic step-by-step "vocationing" process (outlined below), you can pursue your interests and passions to the job of your dreams.

1. Define Your Dream Job(s)

What are your passions and your interests? What activities give you a sense of purpose and satisfaction? Can you envision yourself in a job that fully engages your heart and your mind? You may still be trying to figure out what you want to be when you grow up. That's OK. This eight-step process gives you the opportunity to explore, experiment, and discover what your dream job is and how to pursue it.

2. Address Your Fears

Financial instability, family disruption, giving up an identity, failing at something new. These are all fears that may stand in the way of pursuing your dream job. The biggest thing you can do to get past these fears is to meet them head-on. Bring these deepest fears to light and examine them with reason; talk about them; play each one out to its most irrational end. What is the worst thing that could happen?

3. Do Your Research

Internal and external research helps you discover who you are and what kind of work meshes with your deepest self. Do your homework and access resources ranging from the Internet to one-on-one contact with people on-the-job to determine if what you think is your dream job truly is your dream job.

4. Find a Mentor

Inspirational, experienced, realistic, forthcoming, and optimistic. A good mentor is all of these things and eager to help someone else get started. Recruiting a mentor who is a good match for you requires following a plan of action, asking the right questions, and building a relationship that is mutually satisfying. Having a mentor is the crux to the vocationing process. Whether you're 20-something, 30-something, or even 60-something, you need a mentor!

5. Test-Drive Your Dream Job

There's no better way to learn than by doing. Test-driving your dream job with a mentor provides a hands-on experience that has the potential to change your life. This is the opportunity to learn as much as possible about the job, how you feel about the day-to-day activities, and what it takes to succeed. Whether your mentorship proves your perceived dream job is indeed your dream job, or if it is a reality check illuminating that the job is not the one of your dreams, the mentorship experience gives you the required personal and professional due diligence you need prior to making a career decision.

6. Create an Action Plan

Pursuing a dream job is less a leap than a series of incremental steps that move you closer to your goal. What is critical to reaching that goal is making sure the steps you follow are the right ones. An action plan is needed. If you make a list of all the things you need to learn and do in order to realize your dream job, you will have mapped out a plan for moving ahead. A knowledgeable action plan provides you with the power to forge ahead.

7. Establish Thresholds

The biggest reason we pursue our dream job is to increase our life satisfaction. It is important to understand how much risk, challenge, and uncertainty you can tolerate before the life-satisfaction goal becomes blurred by the process. The vocationing process is as much about what you learn on the journey as the rewards when you reach your destination.

8. Think Big, Start Small

You don't have to quit your 9-to-5 job to pursue your dream job. Obligations and concerns may take you down a less-than-direct path. It may take months, not weeks; years, not months. If you are patient and creative, you can keep your career transition moving forward.

Brian Kurth is the founder of VocationVacations and the author of "Test-Drive Your Dream Job." 

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Five Steps for Spring Career Fair Success

by Caroline Potter, Yahoo! HotJobs


Spring career fair season is almost here. But merely showing up to a fair isn't going to help you net the job of your dreams. You've got to know how to work a career fair for all its worth to get legitimate leads that yield results. Use these tips from Shawn Graham, associate director of the MBA Career Management Center at the University of North Carolina's Kenan-Flagler Business School, to see a return whenever you invest time at a career fair.

Know Before You Go

Don't go to a career fair with the intention of hitting every exhibitor. Some career fairs have hundreds of booths, which is too much ground for one person to cover. Instead, says Graham, "Job seekers should identify and research [who you'll] want to speak with at the fair." Having what Graham refers to as "target organizations" will help attendees know how many resumes to bring as well as come up with questions to ask each company's representatives, he believes.

Keep It Short and Sweet

The best time to perfect your elevator pitch is prior to attending a job fair. Why? According to careers expert Graham, "Typically, job seekers will have about two to three minutes to spend talking to recruiters." Develop your brief pitch, which should, says Graham, summarize your interest in the organization along with your skills and relevant experience.

Just Say No to Swag

It's OK to accept a piece or two of swag, as promotional items are often called, particularly if a recruiter or company representative gives them to you. "Grabbing a handful of freebies teeters on appearing unprofessional and greedy." You want to look as though you are a potential employee rather than a "trick-or-treater, carting a bag of goodies from table to table," advises Graham, also the author of "Courting Your Career."

Pick a Card, Every Card

Every conversation you have should end with a request for each recruiter's business card. Business cards are vital tools as they give you each individual's contact information, including the proper spelling of everyone's name and title. This will prevent you from making careless errors in future communications. Graham states, "If a recruiter doesn't give you his or her business card, check with the career center to see whether the recruiter's contact information is already on file."

Contact Your New Contacts

Now that you've connected with recruiters, make sure you put their contact information to good use. Reach out to each within a few days of the career fair. Whatever method you use to reach out, says Graham, "It's important to reference the meeting at the fair." If you have notes that you took during the fair, use them to "remind [you] of key points to address in [your] follow up as well."

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Will an Advanced Degree Help Your Career?

by Doug White, Robert Half International


Do you miss the days of academic classroom discussions and all-night cram sessions? If so, you're not the only one who's thought about returning to school, either for personal enjoyment or to improve their career prospects.

But there are many factors to consider before re-enrolling. Ask yourself the questions below to help you decide.

Do I need another degree to advance in my field?

In certain lines of work -- social work, college teaching, and psychology, to name a few -- a master's degree or Ph.D. is essential. Finance and accounting professionals also typically need a master's in business administration (MBA) to be considered for senior roles.

But in other areas, the advantages of elevated academic credentials are less clear-cut. In these cases, an advanced degree makes for an attractive bullet point on a resume but is not required to move up to the highest echelons of the industry. As a guidepost, look at the educational backgrounds of leaders in your field and company.


If I don't need an advanced degree now, will it help me down the road?

An advanced degree may be unnecessary for the position you hold but could be extremely helpful when the time comes to target higher-level jobs or change careers.

Martin Hardrick, a designer at a Cincinnati-based landscape architecture firm and MBA candidate, says he's looking ahead. "My job function is very specialized, and I thought an advanced degree would help diversify my knowledge base," says Hardrick, who attends Northern Kentucky University. "I specifically chose to study business over a program related to my undergraduate studies in architecture and city planning because it would allow me to be more flexible in future career choices."

How will my education affect my finances?

An advanced degree can pay big dividends. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, adults with a master's, professional, or doctoral degree earned an average of $79,946 in 2005 (the most recent year for which data is available), while those with a bachelor's degree alone earned $54,689.

But don't assume an advanced degree is an automatic ticket to a larger paycheck or corner office. Corporate cultures vary. While some firms or managers highly value advanced degrees, others favor school-of-hard-knocks grads with more robust real-world experience.

Will my employer help foot the bill?

Pursuing an advanced degree isn't a small commitment, especially when it comes to finances. Depending on the institution, costs can rise above $100,000 when you factor in everything from tuition to textbooks. The good news is that some companies offer tuition reimbursement to retain top performers and groom future leaders. Other firms have affiliations with universities where employees can take courses at steep discounts.

Before approaching your employer about financing your education, do your homework and make a list of ways your academic endeavors will benefit your organization. For example, will you develop valuable skills that do not currently exist in your workplace?

If your employer doesn't offer financial assistance, consider asking for flexible scheduling options or requesting to attend industry conferences where you can expand your skill set.

Finally, if you return to school, remember these words of wisdom: "Having an advanced degree definitely garners you a certain degree of respect," says Jason Wilke, a marketing communications specialist, who received his master's from the University of South Florida in 2003. "But, ultimately, it boils down to how good you are at what you do."

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

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Work, Interrupted: 6 Ways to Avoid Distractions

by Caroline Potter, Yahoo! HotJobs


Do you feel like you're always under the gun at work? Not getting enough done? It might not be your fault. Even if you're working 40-plus hours a week, you -- and most of your colleagues -- aren't spending all that time working.

What's behind this lack of productivity? Some of it may be blamed on inefficient management and poor communication as well as too many meetings. You may not have any control over these factors, but there are steps you can take to limit distractions, so that no one and nothing can interrupt you when you are trying to work.

Follow these suggestions from the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL), which surveyed senior executives to discover how they stay focused.

1. If you have a door, shut it.

Not everyone has an office with a door. In fact, now, many folks don't have offices, as open floor plans have gained favor in corporate America. But if you're lucky enough to have one, close it when you're trying to put your nose to the grindstone. If you don't want to be rude, post a small sign informing folks that you're on a deadline or an important call.

2. Budget your time (even your free time).

Have you ever wondered where the day went when you're leaving the office? If you make a careful schedule that accounts for all of your time and tasks -- free time, meetings, calls, and quiet work time -- you'll be more likely to accomplish what you need to each day. Also, you'll always know exactly where the day went and what went into it.

3. Put down your mobile device.

Constant but unscheduled phone calls and text messages are a common culprit when it comes to efficiency busters. Shut down your device or check it every hour or so, rather than keeping it at the ready when you're attempting to focus on a particular task.

4. Consider a change of scenery.

When you're under pressure to complete a project, you may want to take your show on the road if you can. Work from home or off-site -- anywhere you can truly devote yourself without the possibility of interruption. If working remotely isn't possible, find a conference room or vacant office to squat in so you can get things done.

5. Stop incessantly checking your email.

Remember the days before email? No one does. Today's professionals have become slaves to constantly checking their email. Take control of your inbox and limit how often you check on and address email to stay sane and focused on the job.

6. Off-hours are in.

If you're cursed with coworkers whose conversation you cannot resist, a phone that won't stop buzzing, or an email account that sees more incoming mail than the IRS on April 16, you may have to put in some time during off-hours. Try coming in earlier, staying later, or dropping by the offices on the weekend to get at work that's getting pushed aside. This may not be ideal, but it may be what you need to stay on top of your responsibilities and get to the top of the corporate ladder.

Corey Criswell, a research associate with CCL, also suggests wearing headphones, if you're permitted, as a fun way to tune out distractions, such as idle conversations. And, if you're truly engaged in something, avoid eye contact every time a colleague walks by your desk. "People will think that you are too busy to be interrupted," adds Criswell.

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Want Your Boss to See Your MySpace Page?

by Melanie London, Vault.com


The era of the social networking website is clearly upon us. An entire generation of people doesn't seem to think twice about sharing personal information and photos with the plugged-in planet. When it comes to employment, though, your willingness to share may cost you.

According to Vault.com's Social Networking Websites Survey, 44% of employers use sites like MySpace and Facebook to check out job candidates, and 39% have looked up the profile of a current employee. Profiles that reveal questionable behavior or attitudes can be harmful to job seekers, as 82% of employers say that something they perceive as negative on a profile would affect their hiring decisions. Despite these revealing statistics, only 57% of people with profiles take security measures, such as using the website's privacy controls or editing their profiles while in the midst of a job search.

As long as it's more important to you to land that dream job than to provide the world with photographic evidence of your win in last year's beer pong championship, remember these words: "This profile is set to private." If you're actively searching for a job, or if your resume is posted on an employment web site, be sure to utilize the privacy controls of any social networking sites you use.

The First Impression

Do you really want your online profile to make an impression before you can? It's becoming more and more common for hiring managers to use social networking web sites as a tool to whittle down the resume pile. If an HR exec logs on only to find coarse language and salacious shots, well, there's a good bet your resume will end up in the reject pile. Yes, it's fun to share borderline-scandalous profile content with friends, but why a potential employer? If it's NSFW ("not safe for work"), then it's NSF your non-private profile.

Personal Preferences

Revealing your affiliations and likes/dislikes can leave you open to someone else's biases. From your political party to even seemingly harmless information like your favorite movies or the last book you've read, these stated preferences could mean the difference between you and someone else getting the job. Isn't it safer to just keep this information private? You may feel that you wouldn't want to work for a company where someone would judge you based on such things, but in a close race, it may be easier for a hiring manager to align with a fellow oboe enthusiast than a candidate with whom he or she has no common interests. Get the job first; then reveal your love of Celine Dion.

Postings from Friends

Social networking site profiles are all about "friends." How many do you have? Who knows who? And what is everyone doing at every possible moment? Ask yourself, "Is it safe to let potential employers see what my friends are posting to my profile?" In high school, people judged you by who you hung out with; sad as it is, the same goes for social networking web sites.

Picture and Screen Name

So you've taken this all to heart, and you're about to set your profile to private -- great job! But don't neglect your photo and screen name. Resist the urge to choose a too-cutesy name and/or an excessively silly or revealing picture to represent yourself to the world at large. No matter how tempting it may be to call yourself Divalicious08, it doesn't exactly give off an aura of professionalism.

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4 Career Risks Worth Trying

by Denene Brox, for Yahoo! HotJobs

Taking calculated risks in your career can help you reach your goals. Below are some of the common career risks that you may grapple with, and how to weigh your options.

RISK: Going Back to School

Making the financial and time commitment to go back to school for an advanced degree or certification can feel overwhelming. Factoring into the equation family responsibilities or not being able to quit your job to focus on school can make furthering your education feel like a heavier burden.

Weighing your options: "First you need to know your end goal and what you are trying to achieve by going back to school, such as a raise or changing career paths," advises career coach Hallie Crawford. "Next, determine if going back to school helps you achieve this goal by talking to your boss and mentors. In some fields an advanced degree matters, in others it really doesn't."

RISK: Changing Careers

So many people hate their jobs yet toil away daily because sticking with the familiar feels safe. There are a number of reasons why people are unhappy on the job, including being in a profession that does not utilize their passions and interests.

Weighing your options: With increased company layoffs, no one is immune to losing a job. Finding work that you love should be a priority in your career. Mitigate the risk of career change by doing research before you make the leap so that you'll know what to expect from your new career in terms of salary ranges, and what the work is really like.

"There's always some amount of risk, but if you are truly unhappy the risk is worth it," says Crawford.

RISK: Saying 'No' to Added Responsibility

If your boss is saddling you with more responsibility with a project or promotion, be sure you understand exactly what that will mean for your success. Not all promotions are created equal, and you can quickly become the office doormat if you constantly take on projects that may not have high enough visibility to move your career forward.

Weighing your options: Saying no to more money or recognition is often hard to justify. Your friends, family, and colleagues may think you're crazy for passing up a promotion. But you have to follow your gut instincts. In weighing your options, ask yourself if this project or promotion will really move your forward.

RISK: Starting a Business

More people are going into business for themselves than ever before. Many dream of being their own boss but find the risk of giving up a regular paycheck, health insurance, and retirement accounts too high.

Weighing your options: Do your research (including health care options), save money, and build contacts in your industry while you're still working in your current job.

"Business ownership is a risk and it's not for the faint of heart," says business coach Dresdene Flynn-White. "However, the risks can be mitigated by financial and mental preparation. If someone wants to learn about business ownership, they should work part time in a small business to get that reality check."

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