Tuesday, December 28, 2004

Job Trends Weblog

I just spent some time at the Job Trends Weblog, created by Robert Nagle, after seeing it in the list of referrers. Current post categories include

  • About This Site
  • Advanced Training
  • Hi Tech Careers
  • Job Search Process
  • Macroeconomic Trends
  • Social Trends
  • Soul Searching
In his initial post he writes:
As a former counselor at Johnson O’Connor Research Foundation , a national career testing firm, I learned how difficult it is to find good current information about current job trends.
Great stuff.

Thursday, December 23, 2004

Create a Job Search Timeline

The following My Yahoo! Daily Tip is being posted in its entirety for lack of a permanent link to the material. -DAJ

New Year's Resolutions for Your Job Search: I Will Create a Job Search Timeline
by Caroline Levchuck

You wake up in the morning, watch some TV, write a few emails, watch more TV ... suddenly it's 3:00 p.m. and you haven't even begun working on your resume! Where'd the time go?

Your first New Year's resolution should be to create and stick to a job search timeline, a schedule that can help you get more done in less time.

Here are two ideas for creating a timeline:

  1. Focus on the short term: For example, lay out your goals for the day. It might look like this:
    8:30 a.m. -- Write thank-you notes
    9:00 a.m. -- Search Yahoo! HotJobs for jobs
    10:00 a.m. -- Write cover letters
    Having a daily regimen will help you stay on top of the latest job postings and keep you from slipping into job-search laziness.

  2. Focus on the long term: A long-term schedule helps you see the big picture. For example:
    Goals for January 2-8:
    Send resumes answering specific job postings.
    Contact five friends asking for job leads.

    Goals for January 9-15:
    Follow up on last week's resumes by emailing recruiters.
    Schedule two informational interviews.

You can use either timeline or, better yet, use both. The important thing is to set concrete goals, to provide dates and to meet those goals.

Wednesday, December 22, 2004

Holiday season is prime job hunting time

How many times have you come up with an idea or task and decided to wait until "after the New Year" to address it? This time of year most people think they should put things off until after Christmas because people are on vacation and they think it will be harder to accomplish.

But what better time is there than the present? That motto is especially true if you're looking for a new job. Many of the "gatekeepers" who protect higher ups are out of the office now, taking vacation. So many executives are working and accessible. Now is a great time to be noticed and get your foot in the door. It may sound odd, but often people who go against the grain accomplish exactly what they want.

Contact the people who are decision makers, and your chances of getting a job are much better. Many of the ads listed on Web sites or in newspapers are already "wired," meaning the company knows who will be hired. They've most likely already tapped someone in the company. They are just following required procedures involving discrimination before they hire that person.

Source: Clark Howard Show Notes Thursday, December 16

Tuesday, December 21, 2004

Track Your Networking Contacts on Jobfiler.com

Networking Takes Work - But It Will Pay Off

AN IMPORTANT ASPECT of a successful job search is networking. To be successful in your networking campaign you need to have and develop contacts that can lead to employment opportunities and eventually a job you truly want.

If you have not developed these contacts while in school or in your previous job, you must now put forth the effort and time necessary to make this a reality.

Developing a network through contacts is not about keeping data or improving computer skills. It is about using interpersonal relationships to accomplish your goal.

Like a salesperson, you are prospecting for leads. You will need to follow a similar approach as they do to land a sale.

The following are different approaches you can take to develop the right contacts.

Write down the names of all your friends, acquaintances (including business) and relatives who are in positions to know key contacts for potential jobs or actual employment opportunities. Call, e-mail or go to social gatherings where these individuals will be and let them know of your search. If they express interest in helping you, make sure you follow-up within the next week or two. In some situations they may be able to make introductions to key contacts. In other situations they may give you key names or at the very least employers that may be looking for employees with your expertise.

Now it is up to you to write, e-mail or call the contacts and let them know of your interests. Also be prepared to meet the contacts you are formally introduced to by your friends or family. Have an appropriate well-written resume available and be able to give an oral overview or your qualifications and skills.

To expand beyond your initial contacts requires going to social events and targeting key people.

read more

Wednesday, December 15, 2004

Newspapers with RSS: A List

The Media Drop is compiling a list of newspapers that have RSS feeds. Go ahead... add some of them to your news aggregator. It may be another way of helping your job search.

For example, I live in Dayton, Ohio and am looking to move soon to the Cincinnati area. I'm going to add the feeds to both of the business journals so that I can keep up with what's going on in these areas as I search for my next job.

found via blogdex.net

Tuesday, December 14, 2004

New to the Blogroll: Talent Power!

Quelle chance! A job-hunting blog en français! Specifically, Ressources humaines & Entreprises pour demain.

Sunday, December 12, 2004

A Dilbert Job Interview with Results (humor)

The strip for today struck me as so funny. May we never have such a coworker!

Dilbert Comic Strip Archive - December 12, 2004

1/14/2005 Update: The link no longer works.

Wednesday, December 08, 2004

Career Placement for a fee - be careful

If you are a job search and your resume is on Monster or other boards, carefully screen the calls you receive from recruitment firms. It was recently brought to my attention that there are companies, like the Phoenix Executive Group, that contact jobseekers that provide their placement services for a fee. I have heard of this firm before and their tactics for attracting clientele.

Phoenix Executive Group contacts job seekers appearing to be a recruiter. They call you in for an initial pre-screen interview, which is rare but is an acceptable recruitment practice. However, they do not clearly disclose that you, the candidate, pay the fee for placement. Examining their website, it's nearly impossible to find details on the fee arrangement nor amount. This information is not volunteered when they contact you - you need to ask.

Phoenix Executive (not related to the Phoenix Link) may certainly be a valuable service. However my warning to jobseekers - always ask who pays the fee and ensure that there is no fee paid by the candidate in any and all circumstances. Whether you believe that paying a placement fee is right for you; this is something that you can best decide depending on your circumstances.

My issue with Phoenix Executive Group, and other similar employment assistance companies, is their lack of clear disclosure upfront or on their website. Always ask questions regarding fee's and opportunities before committing to a meeting or signing any document with a recruiter.

Thursday, December 02, 2004

Holiday Gifts for Job Seekers: Career in a Box

Holiday Gifts for Job Seekers: Career in a Box
by Christopher Jones

There are two kinds of people: Those who prefer one big gift and those who prefer lots of little gifts.

If you're shopping for the latter, you can build a great gift box with
these small, inexpensive items.

  • Ink Pens: Pens range from expensive and elaborate to inexpensive and simple. Go for the refillable models. Stick with black ink. No pencils!
  • Business Card Case: They'll keep cards crisp and clean and prevent any awkward fumbling.
  • Portfolio: Leather, cloth or fabric, preferably in dark colors.
  • Notebook: Job seekers can use this to take notes during interviews. Avoid the spiral variety.
  • Stationery: Choose a conservative, unlined pattern. White and off-white work well.
  • Coffeehouse Gift Card: The ultimate pre-interview perk up or post-interview reward.
Include the items in a box or a gift basket. Keep the receipts and leave items in their original packaging in case your job seeker decides to return any of the gifts.

Note: this Yahoo! HotJobs Daily Tip is being reprinted in its entirety because the URL does not change for each tip that is published. Don't believe me? Go check for yourself.

Wednesday, December 01, 2004

GTJ Asks About Your Seasonal Jobs

Deep into the holiday season - aka the Most Wonderful Time of the Year, and Get That Job! wants to know about seasonal jobs you've held.

What are some of the most interesting seasonal jobs you've held? How did you get them? Feel free to share an interesting anecdote or two about those jobs.

I'll share some of my own shortly.

Sunday, November 28, 2004

You're Fired! (Anecdote)

Former NCR boss John Patterson was thought by many to be the paradigmatic corporate tyrant.

Patterson once fired an underperforming executive by removing his desk and chair, parking it in front of the company's factory, and having it soaked in kerosene and set alight.
I'm sure that the executive understood both the literal and figurative meaning of this gesture. I'm just glad that bosses I've had are much more gracious.

Source: Anecdotage.com via DaytonOhio.com

Saturday, November 27, 2004

Federal Computing Week Online

FCW - Your Government IT Resource:

FCW.com is the essential online resource for government IT executives and delivers more breaking news and in-depth content than any other online information source in the government IT market.
I was searching for an updated link for FirstGov for Workers (found it), and I saw a link to an article from these guys. Ah, the wonderful world wide web.

crossposted to Journey Inside My Mind - because I can

Monday, November 22, 2004

Consider Your Objective

HotJobs has some thoughts on the objective you put on a resume to help you avoid mistakes. Think through it carefully.

Job Listings by Zip Code

Enter the following URL in your browser's address line:

http://www.(your zip code).jobs.com

I just did that for my zip code and found 360 jobs listed by their distance from my zip code.

Training Info in Ohio

A quick visit to OhioWorks.com this morning brought me to this announcement:

NOTICE: The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services is redesigning the job matching and posting services offered online.
As a result, OhioWorks.com has been temporarily replaced with Ohio Job Net Online.

Employers and Jobseekers who have previously entered information in OhioWorks.com will need to re-enter this information into OJN-Online (http://www.state.oh.us/ODJFS/OnLine).

We apologize for the inconvenience this causes.

Click Here to continue to OJN-Online.
Actually, I just wanted to see if the following links were valid:

Labor Exchange Self-Service System

I saw this link at the Dayton Job Center. Don't know much else about it yet.

Hamilton County Department of Job and Family Services

Our family is looking to move to the Cincinnati, Ohio area next spring. This website is the local equivalent of "The Job Center" in Montgomery County, where we currently live.

Thursday, November 18, 2004

Deafbase Forums - Career & Employment

Deafbase is an online forum abundant with information for Deaf and Hard of Hearing(HoH) individuals and anyone else who is interested.

One area that looks particularly useful is the Careers & Employment forum.

via Bionic Ear Blog | Hunting For Jobs

Wednesday, November 17, 2004

LookBeforeYouLeap.net - Company Reviews by Current and Past Employees

LookBeforeYouLeap.net - Company Reviews by Current and Past Employees

LookBeforeYouLeap.net - Company Reviews by Current and Past Employees

LookBeforeYouLeap.net - Company Reviews by Current and Past Employees

Don't Shoot Yourself in the Foot

Don't Shoot Yourself in the Foot

Why is having any of these 7 things on your resume is like shooting yourself in the foot?

During my job search I read dozens of books and articles, took programs and even sat at the feet of two of the most experienced Human Resource professionals. In a few moments, you will learn the real keys to standing out and rising above the norm. Stick to the facts and only reveal information that will encourage the reader to call you for an interview. If in doubt, leave it out. Pay careful attention to this one.

The objective is no longer a practical heading for your resume. Bottom line, don’t begin your resume with an objective statement that talks only about your desires and career goals. Most Human Resource Professionals are overworked and understaffed. The last thing they care about is what you want. HR Professionals are working to meet tight deadlines and desperately want to hire that extra person to make their lives easier. When they look at your resume, they want to know one thing: how will you simplify their lives? Rather than a seeminly selfish objective,
create a powerful profile summary that demonstrates how your skills and their needs fit. Review these sample profiles:

  • Marketing professional with eight years project management experience, plus extensive hands on experience in data management, inventory control and in obtaining government bid contracts.
  • Computer programmer with expertise in systems analysis and design, program development, troubleshooting and equipment repair.
  • Office worker types 65 wpm with training and experience in general clerical, accounts payable and receivable, inventory control and multi-line phone operation.
  • Certified teaching professional with twelve years direct instruction experience, classroom management plus extensive training in motivational strategies geared toward special needs students.
  • Janitor with fifteen years experience in commercial janitorial work plus direct training in plumbing and staff supervision.
Here is a listing of the other 6 items that you should avoid at all cost. These items should never appear on any resume at any time.

No Personal Information

Leave off anything related to hobbies or personal interests. If it doesn’t relate to employment it doesn’t belong on a resume.

No Personal Pronouns

Do not use “I” or “me” in a resume. Sentence structure is typically very short leading with action verbs. Sentences like, “I was responsible for…” are not used
in a resume. Instead, the sentence would begin with, “responsible for…”

No Family Information

Don’t use the small space available on your resume to list your marital status or family size.

No Personal Biographies

Leave off anything that could be used as discriminatory information. Remember, the people reading resumes are not initially reading to select, they are reading to eliminate. There is no reason to reveal your age or any other personal data. The reader should be selecting candidates based strictly on skills and experience.

No Reasons for Leaving

This type of information goes on the application. If there is a problem with a former employer and you left under difficult measures, you cannot explain the
reason in writing. Keep in mind the resume is to highlight your accomplishments.

Graphics and Artwork

Writing a resume using a computer makes the task quick and easy, yet has also created the temptation to make use of clipart and different fonts. Resist! Your
resume will not look clever or original; it will look like an amateur produced it and will be tossed aside.

Final Tips: Forget about trying to create the “perfect” resume. Why?
  1. Your resume will never be framed and hung on a wall.
  2. The employer cares only about their needs being met. Don’t talk about your wants, needs or desires rather, focus on how you meet their needs and solve their problems. As Zig Ziglar once said, “When a person goes to the hardware store to purchase a drill, they don’t want to “buy a drill” rather what they want is 3 centimeter hole. If they could get the hole without the drill they would do it.” Make sense?
  3. Focus your resume to each employer. Your research tells you exactly what they are looking for.
  4. Specifics sell! Clearly outline results, contributions, and achievements you’ve made in your previous positions that directly benefit the targeted company.
-Brian Stephenson

Brian Stephenson is the author of, “Job Search Boot Camp”, the most hard-hitting, step-by-step job search course that takes each student by the hand and shows them how to create powerful resumes that get results, stunning cover letters that command interviews, and winning interview thank you letters that get you hired? Imagine for a moment what is possible for you if you had access to these forbidden secrets. For more information on the Job Search Boot Camp course, visit www.JobSearchBootCamp.com Job Search Boot Camp.

Tuesday, November 16, 2004

Networking Naturally at Holiday Parties

This post comes from today's HotJobs Job Tip. No unique URL exists for these, so I'm posting the text in its entirety. - Dan

A Holiday Job Search: Networking Naturally at Holiday Parties

by Todd Anten

Holiday parties are a perfect place to boost your winter job search. They provide an opportunity to schmooze with a wide array of people, some of whom may know of job openings.

To maximize your chances of finding a job through holiday party networking, follow these dos and don'ts:
  • DO go to as many gatherings as possible. You never know where an opportunity may appear, so put on a brave face and attend the parties to which you are invited -- even if you don't feel like it.
  • DO dress conservatively. Imagine that you're meeting your future boss at this party. So err on the side of caution and don't go overboard with revealing or questionable clothing choices.
  • DO bring business cards. The people you talk to at a party will probably meet many other people over the course of the evening. A business card will serve as a reminder of who you are.
  • DO let people know that you're looking for work. When the conversation comes around to careers, be up front and let people know you are interested in a new job. (If you are currently employed, you may want to keep your job search confidential.)
  • DON'T be overly aggressive. Remember, even though it's a job search for you, it's a party for everyone else. Keep your mood light.
  • DON'T go overboard with the alcohol. Yes, it's a party, but you need to be at your sharpest. The guy with the lampshade on his head at the end of the night tends to be remembered for his shenanigans, not for his potential as an employee or coworker.

nextSteps.org - Youth Employment, Career Development and Job Finding Site

I found this website while browsing for advice on Leaving a Job. I found a page entitled "Leaving Your Job".

A couple things intrigued me:

  1. The title says it's designed for "Youth," but I found the information useful, and, guess what? I'm in my thirties. Young at heart, I suppose.
  2. The ad banner atop the website says, "nextsteps.org is made possible by the generous support of: THE CITY OF CALGARY"
Go there --> nextSteps.org - Youth Employment, Career Development and Job Finding Site

Saturday, November 13, 2004

Team or Self: What do hiring managers seek?

Fortune Magazine ran an online story entitled "What do hiring managers really want" by Annie Fisher. She reports that a recent "Pittsburgh-based HR consulting firm Development Dimensions International" study "...discovered that 75% want employees who work well in a team setting. Only 20% cited individual ambition as a desirable trait."

This seems like an intuitive result, where team is valued in corporate settings more than ever. The key take away from this study; your resume should include aspects of successful team behavior and leadership qualities. Identify teams that you lead and their ultimate success are desirable for hiring managers.

The study further reports that 57% of respondents "...say they'd turn thumbs down on inarticulate candidates or those who are vague about their previous experience...". DUH - I would have expected this to be nearly 100% for professionals. The take-away here; be prepared to discuss your professional experiences with brevity and clarity.

And toss in how you performed as a team member or as it's leader.

Click here for the full article.

Stephen
jobstuff, a Blog for your Career
zerotonetwork, a Business Networking Blog



Friday, November 12, 2004

Google Search: Quit The Job You Hate

Google Search: Quit The Job You Hate

Some helpful links for when it's time to sever your relationship with your employer.

Looking for a Book Deal

I'm looking for a book deal. Contact me if you're interested.

Wednesday, November 10, 2004

Interview With The Headhunter

If you ever wanted to sit down and pick a headhunter's brain (pardon that visual), this interview will give you 3 "insider" tips to help you find a new job faster.

CrossRoads Newsletter and Career Development Center

Sunday, November 07, 2004

Job Search Humor Blog and a Success Story to Boot

First, this note via email:

Dear Dan,

I've looked at your blog and I really can relate.

I am writing to ask if you would consider linking my blog to "Get That Job." I am a communications writer with a penchant for humor. I've started a blog, entitled, "Does This Look Funny to You?," which consists of articles, one-liners, and column links. The columns are from my stint as a humorist for the employment publication, Career Magazine. I also have written a book-length manuscript, entitled "Blown Job: an unemployment odyssey," which chronicles my lengthy, frustrating, and comic search for employment. I am going to provide chapter excerpts on the blog, several of which I've already posted.

I invite you to take a look, and if you find my blog interesting, I would be most grateful if you would provide a link to it on your websites. I would be glad to reciprocate with a link on my blog.

The blog link is:
http://lookfunny.blogspot.com

Thank you for your time. I will be checking your site and I hope that I will see the aforementioned link there.

Sincerely,

Jill Salter
Head over there; you won't be disappointed. (Note to self; update the blogroll, heh?)

Secondly, you can read about Jill's recent success at finding a job at Sore Feet, Bleary Eyes, and a Big Fat Smile.

Please feel free to share your job hunting success stories, as they inspire and give hope to us all who are looking. You can send them via email, or post something in the comments.

Go Get That Job!

Thursday, November 04, 2004

Choosing the Right Career Path

Some interesting articles about how what we decide not to do affects our career decistions as much as what we decide to do.

Saturday, October 30, 2004

Advice for Completing Job Applications

My employer is a restaurant that, like many other places, requires prospective employees to complete job applications. One thing I've noticed all too frequently is that these applicants show up to fill out an application, but they do not have their own pen. They then ask if they can borrow one. Absurd!

Always go to a prospective employer prepared! I thought that went without saying, but I guess it had to be said again.

Thank you. I'm Dan Johnson, and I approved this message.

Dr. Bamster's Blog - Career Transition Discussion

I've never heard of Dr. Bamster, but apparently he or she has a new blog for 40-somethings. The blog invites discussion about job- and career-changing specifically for this age group, yet it also provides some great advice for everyone. Check out these posts, for example:

OK, 40-Somethings - I'm Listening to YOU!

Is This As Good As It Gets?

Wednesday, October 27, 2004

CrossRoads Newsletter and Career Development Center

CrossRoads Newsletter and Career Development Center: "The Likeability Factor ? Do You Have It?"

Meta Search

Meta Search is the ability for you to search multiple sites or search engines with a single query. This can be a timesaver for jobseekers.

JobFinder.com offers a free metasearch tool, as does StaffingLinks. There are other sites out there that also offer Meta Search for a fee, but as you know, the best things in life are free!

Tuesday, October 26, 2004

How to Be a Working Comic (book)

I was browsing through the library's catalog yesterday, and I found the book, . Comedians make it look so easy that I've thought of going to an open mic night at one of the comedy clubs around here.

The Amazon.com page contains editorial reviews and reviews from individuals.

Monday, October 25, 2004

Make Them Love You Before Your First Day

Note: I have not found permalinks available for MyYahoo! Daily Tips from HotJobs, so I am reprinting the entire article here. - DAJ

How to Make a Powerful First Impression at a New Job: Make Them Love You Before Your First Day

by Alexandra Levit

MAKE THEM LOVE YOU BEFORE YOUR FIRST DAY

Great work -- you've been hired by the company of your dreams!

But you still have work to do. Between your acceptance and the end of your first month on the job, it's critical that you make a stellar first impression.

Once you've done the appropriate paperwork for your acceptance, contact the hiring manager and recruiter. Thank them again for the opportunity -- and ask if they have any material to share that will better prepare you for your first day. From general company information to background reading on your position and projects, these documents can help you get up to speed before you get to the office.

Plus, by asking for advance reading, you'll show your manager how proactive and competent you are.

Want to continue wowing them once you arrive? This week, Job Tip of the Day shows you how to make a powerful first impression at a new job.

* Tuesday: "Dress for Success"
* Wednesday: "Nail Those Initial Interactions"
* Thursday: "Harness the Power of Observation"
* Friday: "Be on Your Best Behavior"

Alexandra Levit is the author of "They Don't Teach Corporate in College: A Twenty-Something's Guide to the Business World" (Career Press 2004). Before starting Inspiration@Work, an independent marketing communications business, Levit worked for a Fortune 500 software company and an international public relations firm.

Tuesday, October 19, 2004

Career Search High Level Process Flow...

A well rounded career search strategy needs to utilize a number of different tools to be successful. In this diagram, I try to outline a high level proces flow for "Getting That Job".

Stephen Harris' JobStuff Career Search Diagram

Two of these tools may be new to you: WebSites and Blogs. I'll address these in an upcoming GetThatJob entry. In the meantime, keep in mind: creativity and leveraging all available tools will give you an advantage in the job seeking market.



Friday, October 15, 2004

Thanks for Noticing!

Insala Infolink, mentioned this blog in a recent article! Thanks!

Tuesday, October 12, 2004

Ready to Get That Job? Re-energize your Campaign

Are you doing the same old thing in pursuit of that great new job? During my own journey through the "transition-zone", I re-energized my campaign on a frequent basis. Sound easy right? It is. First - stop and take a break and reflect on what worked well for you and what did not. Holidays are often a great time for this, as the job market slows as the holiday approaches and for days after.

Use this break time (or anytime) to try something new. Attend a different type of network event, where you might not know as many people. Take yourself out of the comfort zone.

And consider taking a quick holiday! Getting That Job is hard work - maybe harder than working at that job. You need to be focused and sharp to win that interview. The look of desperation or frustration will hurt you chances considerably. Walking away from your search for a few days is time well spent.

Next week we'll tear apart some resumes and get folks re-focused on PAR. To read ahead click here and here.

Stephen
JobStuff, a Blog for Your Career
Zerotonetwork, a Business Networking Blog


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Saturday, October 09, 2004

New to the team: Stephen Harris

Hello... I'd like to introduce myself - my name is Stephen Harris. I will be adding my entries to Dan's tremendous "Get-that-Job" Blog as a guest author. Look for my commentary, tips and ideas for the jobseeker every Tuesday.

For those of you that are in the career "transition-zone", I can relate. I've been there - was there - for over a year. During this amazing period of my life, I started a consulting group, learned how to network (thus my Zero to Network Blog), mentored other jobseekers, coordinated networking events (including a major charity event in Atlanta) and even became an executive recruiter. I am now gainfully employed as Director; Affiliate Marketing for DigitalGrit.com. My job related Blogs are my humble means of giving back for all the support I received when I was in your shoes.

My own blogs are listed below my name - and I am also a guest author on the Recruiters Blog.

I appreciate Dan for this opportunity to contribute to his Blog and to provide helpful tips & suggestions to you - the Job-Seeker/Job-Changer, so you can "Get That Job"!

Stephen
JobStuff, a Blog for Your Career
ZeroToNetwork, a Business Networking Blog
ApprenticeViews, Trump TV views

Monday, October 04, 2004

When A Former Employer Comes A-Calling

Today I received a letter from a former employer, who has invited me and other "alumni" to a company reunion early next month. I was a bit surprised, considering the circumstances surrounding our parting ways.

Why would the company be doing this? They are promoting this event as "a great opportunity to reconnect with former colleagues and friends." They are also asking invitees to bring a business card or fill out a contact info card to be entered in a free drawing.

I've realized that this is a great networking opportunity for the company to get contacts from potential clients. Who else knows about the company's capabilities better than its former employees?

That got me to think about how this opportunity can be used to my benefit as a job seeker? It might be too much for me to think I could land a position with my former company, but I still could network and discover other opportunities.

Tuesday, September 28, 2004

Words of Others for Encouragement

  • "Absence of occupation is not rest; A mind quite vacant is a mind distressed." -- William Cowper
  • "In my life's chain of events nothing was accidental. Everything happened according to an inner need." -- Hannah Senesh
  • "I have learned that to get a job done and have fun in it is about all you can get out of life." -- Jessie Tarbox Beals
  • "Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life." -- Confucius
Have you found any quotations that you think would inspire other job seekers? Let me know and I'll post them here.

Go Get That Job!

Saturday, September 25, 2004

Family Ties Can Help in Job Search

Someone in your family might be able to find you a job.

According to a recent daily survey conducted by HowStuffWorks.com, about 45% of the respondents said that they had at some point gotten a job through a member of their families.

Similarly, nearly 5% of those responding stated that, while not having gotten a job through a family member, they were able to get a job for a family member.

That leaves about half the respondents, who said they had never gotten a job through a family member.

The online survey, conducted on Thursday, September 23, 2004, consisted of 941 responses.

Friday, September 24, 2004

Economy will improve despite negatives

Consumer Warrior Clark Howard shared these comments recently on his radio show:

Corporate earnings are not looking as good as they did in the first quarter of the year, and consumer confidence has declined. But Clark still has good news for you. Many things are setting the groundwork for a very strong economy in the future. First of all, inflation is much lower than expected. For the most recent month, inflation was one-tenth of one percent, which is almost nil. Over the year, it’s only 2.7 percent higher. So, interest rates are not going to be as high as expected. Having low interest rates is like setting the table for a job improvement and more strength in the economy next year.

Some Employers Killing Goose Who Lays Golden Eggs

This past week my wife, my daughter, and I have been ill with colds. It just shows that although anyone can take as many precautions as they can to stay well, illness can still be as common as, um, the cold (*grin*).

On Monday we thought our daughter had an onset of chicken pox, but fortunately, it was just a case of bug bites from rolling around in the grass last weekend instead. Still, we had to go to the doctor's office for a check-up. I had to call off work in order to do that.

My wife Jennie has been feeling the worst our of all of us. She's lost her voice these past three days, and she hasn't been to work since Monday night. Tuesday night was her regularly scheduled night off. She had someone else who works part-time work for her on Wednesday and Thursday nights. She would like to call in sick tonight.

I don't claim to understand everything about her company's sick policy. She supposedly has close to 40 hours of sick leave available, but someone in management is saying that she's not allowed to use it.

Since her job is to care for elderly and others who cannot take care of themselves, it does not make sense to require someone who is feeling ill to come to work.

At my job it's different. I'm an hourly part-timer for a fast-food restaurant - one of the largest in the world. I have no vacation or sick leave; if I don't work, I don't get paid. This fact is evident in my most recent paycheck, which is a lot less than what I usually get paid.

I know that sometimes people call in sick when they are not really sick at all. That's why, for example, my employer requires me to bring a doctor's note to show that I was, in fact, sick. It reminds me of school (excused absences and whatnot).

Nevertheless, I would rather not work around someone who is sick; it would be better for that person to stay home and get well.

Remember Aesop's fable about the goose who laid the golden eggs? It feels as though companies that ignore their employees in this way are setting themselves up for failure.

crossposted to Journey Inside My Mind

Thursday, September 23, 2004

6 Rules for Personal Resume Web Sites

Instead of having a hardcopy portfolio, some job seekers are now opting for an online one. This article offers rules for building such a site.

Friday, September 17, 2004

Cover letter not place for personal agendas

Most people already know a targeted resume can be the first step toward finding a good job. It provides employers with their first introduction to you and is often the ticket to landing an interview. Your cover letter is equally important, because it provides you with the opportunity to explain in greater detail and by using examples of why you are the best person for the position. It's not the place for declaring your personal agenda.
A job hopeful seeking a public-relations position requiring strong writing skills listed in her cover letter a few magazines she'd written for, adding: 'I think my best work sample is a novel I've just finished writing. I'm attaching the first chapter. I think you'll agree that I'm as original as a writer can be.'
Attaching a work sample is not unusual for a writer, but in this case the hiring manager may wonder if she's more interested in finding a publisher than landing a PR job."

read more

Wednesday, September 15, 2004

From Geek to Chef

I've learned a lot this summer during my sabbatical but it all can be summarized in three words: follow your heart.
Megnut ends her sabbatical,announcing that she's changed careers from her previous one involving the web and tech to something she's "always felt passionate about: cooking."

Good luck, Meg!

Job search tips: Jumpstart your job search!

Need to jumpstart your job search? How about and posting your resume online and let the jobs come to you, for once.

Here are some good places to do that:


These sites all have fairly advanced search methods so you can narrow your search results by location, field and more. And you can set up automated job search agents to query their database for matching jobs and have them emailed to you. If you haven't yet got those set up, what are you waiting for? Your next job is out there somewhere, just waiting for you to find it!

Monday, September 13, 2004

On Becoming a User, Not Just a Contributor

I mentioned in my other blog, Journey Inside My Mind, that our home PC is acting up. I'm at the library. I've decided to focus my Internet time toward a job hunt - the single-most proactive thing I can do right now that will benefit our family financially.

That way, I can take advantage of the wealth of info within this blog.

Now Hiring - Fast Food Employers

And some others, I suppose. With all the high school and college students heading back to school, the positions they had during the summer are open. Unless, of course, the work is seasonal.

At my employer, for example, we've been doing open interviews throughout the week to fill the unoccupied positions.

Maybe this kind of work isn't for you, but if it is, even in the short term, check it out!

Wednesday, September 08, 2004

Job Hunting Success Story - Portrait Representative

What a great way to encourage your fellow job seekers -- by sharing your job hunting success stories!

I recently congratulated Emily B., a friend from church who found a job as a Portrait Representative. I replied, asking how she got the job and what it entails. She emailed me back:

I found an ad in the classifieds, responded, and then went for a interview; then I found out the next day that I was hired. All that only took about a week.

Well what happens, is that, as a photographer, I will go to the client's home and take the pictures. Then I will call those people to set up a time to meet to view the pics with them and help them pick out what package, etc. that they want. I get commission for those sales.

Everyday Money: Waiter tip tricks - Aug. 26, 2004

I need to keep this in mind when I go back to bartending.

Sunday, September 05, 2004

AARP Best Employers for Workers Over 50 Honorees for 2004

AARP Best Employers for Workers Over 50 Honorees for 2004: "These companies and organizations, recognized by AARP for their best practices and policies for valuing the mature worker, are roadmaps for the workplaces of tomorrow."

AARP Careers: Home Page

Check out some useful information from the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)'s Careers web site. Among the articles:

Tuesday, August 31, 2004

Unhappy at work, but unwilling to change

A recent telephone survey of 2600 respondents indicates that while many American workers are unhappy with their jobs, the condition of the current job market precludes them from moving on.

The article also describes the growing prevalence of blogs as a way of sharing one's gripes about work:

With more than 2.5 million blogs online for all the world to see, this trend can create numerous legal problems, warns Michael D. Karpeles, head of the labor and employment law group with the Chicago law firm Goldberg Kohn Bell Black Rosenbloom & Moritz Ltd.

"The biggest problems can arise when employees ... accidentally or deliberately reveal proprietary information, vent frustrations with company policies or a particular manager or executive, or otherwise publish information that the company would prefer to keep internal," Karpeles said.

Many companies are still trying to sort through the new terrain and answer some tough questions:
  • Does it matter if the blogger is writing from work or home?
  • Do First Amendment free-speech rights apply?
  • Is it legal to broadcast embarrassing company information, as long as it's true?
Karpeles noted another potential headache, this one for the workers -- future employers might be leery of hiring a prolific workplace blogger.
What do you think?

The Balancing Act

For many workers, flexibility is no longer a nice-to-have - it's a need-to-have to find that work-life balance. And workplaces are responding. Instead of losing valued employees, many companies are opting to offer their employees quality of life benefits our parents would have never thought possible. Let's face it, the typical 9 to 5 workday is fading away as employees demand a better work and life balance and employers respond by offering a variety of flexible scheduling options. In a survey conducted recently by consulting firm Hewitt Associates, three out of four businesses said they offer part-time, flextime, job sharing or compressed work weeks and other alternatives.

So what's an employee to do when his or her boss lives in the dark ages and is unwilling to give flexibility a chance? It may be time to consider changing jobs. However, before drafting your letter of resignation, you should take the time to research the various flexible scheduling options and decide which would benefit both you and your employer.
Some of the options include
  • Telecommuting
  • Flexible and part-time schedules
  • Compressed work week and
  • Job sharing

Saturday, August 28, 2004

Promote Yourself to a New Job: 2010 -- A Job Odyssey

Note: My Yahoo! Daily Tips via HotJobs do not exist with permanent URLs. Thus, I have posted the entire tip below:

Promote Yourself to a New Job: 2010 -- A Job Odyssey

by Caroline Levchuck

It's one of the most modern forms of self-promotion: Blogging.

Blogs are online journals. Easy to create, a blog can help you establish yourself as a voice to be reckoned with in your industry.

Ana Marie Cox's political gossip blog, Wonkette.com, led to a job covering the Democratic National Convention for MTV News.

Julie Powell, an unemployed New Yorker, put up a blog documenting her year-long odyssey cooking all 524 recipes in Julia Child's "Mastering the Art of French Cooking." It remains one of Salon.com's most popular
destinations and sparked Powell's new career as an author. She's contracted for a book to be published in 2005, based on her experiences.

A blog can help turn your name into a bold-faced one -- and make you a VIP in your field. If Cox and Powell can do it, so can you.
I would love to blog and get paid for it. I'm just not sure if what I blog about merits anyone paying me to do it. What do you all think?

Yahoo! News - Behind numbers lie struggles, successes

From the USA Today article:

...millions of other Americans, Clark, 44, lives in "a perpetual state of panic financially" - otherwise known as poverty. Census figures released Thursday show the number of impoverished Americans grew by 1.3 million from 2002 to 2003, and the number without health insurance increased by 1.4 million.

That left about 35.9 million people living below the poverty line in 2003. And the number of uninsured rose to 45 million.

Precisely how Americans have fared this year since the numbers were gathered remains a point of contention. The Bush administration argued Thursday that the statistics on poverty and income failed to account for an improving economy that continues to help millions of others prosper.
Read more...

Wednesday, August 25, 2004

Recommended Reading: Job Search



This book is an easy read with helpful advice on how to approach and succeed at your job search. Author covers the nine basic steps of getting a job, starting with implementing a specific job search plan (that's where JibberJobber can help!), understanding the selection process, determining what life experiences (good and bad) best describe your individual personality and talents (and how to discuss these experiences in a clear and concise manner), preparing for the interview, and more.

Google Search "Get That Job"

This blog is not the only "Get That Job" in cyberspace. Check out the Google search results to see additional information with the same name.

Tuesday, August 24, 2004

Jobs, Other Assistance Available for Workers Dislocated by Florida Storms

8/24/2004 12:07:00 PM

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To: National Desk

Contact: Lorette Post of the U.S. Department of Labor, 202-693-3984

WASHINGTON, Aug. 24 /U.S. Newswire/ -- U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao has announced a National Emergency Grant of up to $50 million, with an initial release of $16.5 million, to assist workers in Florida affected by Tropical Storm Bonnie and Hurricane Charley.

"President Bush and I want workers affected by this disaster to know that help is available now," said Secretary of Labor Chao. "Federal and state agencies are working around the clock to make sure that dislocated workers have access to temporary jobs, supportive services such as transportation and child care expenses and disaster unemployment insurance as quickly and easily as possible."

The National Emergency Grant will provide temporary employment as well as supportive services to eligible workers. Information on employment assistance is available by calling toll free 1-800- 342-3450.

In addition to assistance provided through this grant, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has made $2 million available immediately to eligible dislocated workers through the Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) program, administered by the Department of Labor.

The major objective of DUA is to provide assistance to individuals whose employment or self-employment has been lost or interrupted as a direct result of a major disaster and who are not eligible for regular state unemployment compensation. Individuals who meet these criteria can file claims online at http://www.floridajobs.org or by phone at 1-800-204-2418. Operating One-Stop Career Centers and mobile One-Stop units are also accepting claims applications.

------

U.S. Labor Department (DOL) releases are accessible on the Internet at http://www.dol.gov . The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format upon request (large print, Braille, audio tape or disc) from the COAST office. Please specify which news release when placing your request. Call 202-693-7765 or TTY 202-693-7755. DOL is committed to providing America's employers and employees with easy access to understandable information on how to comply with its laws and regulations. For more information, please visit http://www.dol.gov/compliance.

------

A document outlining questions and answers about DUA for the State of Florida is below.
What is Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA)?

Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) provides assistance to individuals whose employment or self-employment has been lost or interrupted as a direct result of a major disaster and who are NOT eligible for regular state unemployment insurance. The U.S. Department of Labor oversees DUA and coordinates with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which provides the funds for payment of DUA and state administration (see note 1). DUA is administered by the state agency responsible for providing state unemployment insurance. In Florida, that is the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation headquartered in Tallahassee.

What triggers the availability of DUA?

Based upon the request of the Governor, the President may declare that a major disaster exists and define the areas in the state that are eligible for financial assistance. President Bush declared a major disaster in certain parts of the state of Florida on Aug. 13.

Who is eligible for DUA?

Payment will be made to an unemployed worker who as a direct result of a major disaster:
  1. No longer has a job;
  2. Is unable to reach their place of work;
  3. Was to commence work and does not have a job or is unable to reach the job;
  4. Has become the breadwinner for the household because the head of household died (see note 2); or
  5. Cannot work because of a disaster-incurred injury.

Payment will be made to an unemployed self-employed individual who as a direct result of a major disaster:
  1. No longer can perform regular services in self-employment;
  2. Is unable to reach the place where self-employment services are performed;
  3. Was to commence regular service in self-employment and does not have a place or is unable to reach the place where services were to be performed; or
  4. Cannot perform services because of a disaster-incurred injury.

NOTE: An individual who becomes a breadwinner due to the death of a self-employed individual is considered an unemployed worker for DUA purposes.

For each week of unemployment, an individual must meet the "able to work" requirement and the "available for work" requirement of the state unemployment insurance program.

How much DUA can someone receive and for how long?

The maximum weekly benefit amount in the state of Florida is $275. The disaster assistance period commences the week of Aug. 16, 2004 and ends on Feb. 12. An individual can receive up to 26 weeks of DUA benefits as long as the individual's unemployment or self-employment was caused by the major disaster and continues as a result of the disaster. Applications for DUA must be made within 30 days of Aug. 16, 2004. DUA claims are being taken by Internet, telephone and mail. While some of the One-Stop Centers in the interior of the state are closed due to damage, the Florida agency is using a mobile One-Stop stationed in Charlotte County to take UI and DUA claims. The first check should arrive approximately three weeks after the initial claim is made. To file a DUA claim in Florida or for questions call 1-800-204-2418.

NOTES:
  1. DUA is considered an entitlement benefit subject to meeting the eligibility requirements detailed below.
  2. The individual becoming the breadwinner does not need to have wage credits and could be eligible for DUA even if the deceased individual would have had regular unemployment insurance eligibility. The breadwinner is entitled to the higher of the DUA amount based on either the deceased head of household's wages or their own DUA amount calculated under the provisions of the DUA regulations.
http://www.usnewswire.com/

-0-

/© 2004 U.S. Newswire 202-347-2770/

Monday, August 23, 2004

New Overtime Rules Simplify Regulations for Small Businesses, Says SBA

8/23/2004 4:24:00 PM

------

To: National Desk, Labor Reporter

Contact: Raul E. Cisneros of U.S. Small Business Administration, 202-205-7654

WASHINGTON, Aug. 23 /U.S. Newswire/ -- New overtime rules issued by the U.S. Department of Labor, going into effect today simplify regulations for small businesses.

"One of the pillars of President Bush's small business agenda is to reduce regulatory barriers for small businesses," said SBA Administrator Hector V. Barreto. "Previous rules had not been updated in decades, causing confusion and litigation for these entrepreneurs. These new rules will make it easier for small businesses to comply with overtime regulation."

The new rules guarantee overtime protections to 6.7 million workers earning $23,660 per year or less. About 1.3 million salaried white collar workers will gain up to $375 million in additional earnings per year. Another 5.4 million salaried workers will get a guarantee of overtime rights.

"With these new rules, small business employers will have more clarity should they decide to hire more employees without the fear of additional litigation," added Barreto. "Now, both employees and employers will have ironclad protections. This is very positive for small businesses in the long term."

For additional details on the new overtime rules, visit: http://www.dol.gov.

http://www.usnewswire.com/

-0-

/© 2004 U.S. Newswire 202-347-2770/
via U.S. Newswire

Statement from John Kerry on New Bush Overtime Regulations

8/23/2004 1:43:00 PM

------
To: Assignment Desk and Daybook Editor

Contact: Chad Clanton or Phil Singer, 202-464-2800, both of Kerry-Edwards 2004, Web: http://www.johnkerry.com

BOSTON, Aug. 23 /U.S. Newswire/ -- Senator John Kerry released the following statement today on the new Bush overtime regulations:

"Today, 6 million Americans across the country could get a pay cut from this administration. This is only the latest insult to America's middle class who are paying a higher tax burden, while at the same time wages are declining and families are paying skyrocketing costs for health care, energy and college tuition.

"America can do better. When I am president, we will strengthen the middle class by cutting taxes for 98 percent of families, reining in the spiraling cost of health care, protecting overtime and raising the minimum wage."

http://www.usnewswire.com/

-0-

/© 2004 U.S. Newswire 202-347-2770/
via U.S. Newswire

Restoring Overtime Security for Millions of Working Americans

8/23/2004 12:08:00 PM

------
To: National Desk and Labor Reporter

Contact: Lisa Kruska of the U.S. Department of Labor, 202-693-4676

WASHINGTON, Aug. 23 /U.S. Newswire/ -- U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao announced today that the final rules governing overtime eligibility for white-collar workers under the Fair Labor Standards Act are now in effect. The newly updated Overtime Security Rule strengthens and protects overtime pay for 6.7 million American workers. The new rules clarify and update ambiguous and confusing overtime regulations that were first created in 1939 and have not been substantially updated since 1949.

"6.7 million workers will see their overtime protections strengthened under the new Overtime Security Rule," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "Under the new rules, workers will know their overtime rights, employers will know their responsibilities and the department can more vigorously enforce these protections. In addition, the department has undertaken the most extensive compliance outreach on any regulation in its history to help employers comply with the new rules," added Chao.

The new rule expands the number of workers eligible for overtime by nearly tripling the salary threshold. Under the previous 50-year-old regulations, only workers earning less than $8,060 annually or $155 per week were guaranteed overtime. Under the new rule, workers paid less than $23,660 or $455 per week are now automatically guaranteed overtime regardless of their titles or duties. A number of salaried workers earning above this threshold will also gain the right to overtime under the new, stronger rules. This strengthens overtime protections for 6.7 million low-wage salaried workers, including 1.3 million salaried white collar workers who were not entitled to overtime pay under the previous regulations. Businesses will have to pay an additional $375 million and workers will gain that amount in additional earnings every year.

Hourly workers are guaranteed overtime regardless of how much they are paid. Blue collar and manual laborers and workers, such as construction workers, operating engineers, carpenters, and longshoremen are also guaranteed overtime under these newly effective rules. Police, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, licensed practical nurses and other first responders now have strengthened overtime protections. Union workers under collective bargaining agreements are not impacted.

With the new Overtime Security Rule, the U.S. Department of Labor, which has set new records for aggressive Wage and Hour enforcement, now has a strong new standard in place to better protect workers' pay.

To learn more about the new overtime security rules go to http://www.dol.gov/fairpay. This website includes fact sheets, video instruction and is searchable. It also tells workers how to file a complaint with the Department of Labor if they believe they are improperly being denied overtime.

------

U.S. Labor Department news releases are accessible on the Internet at http://www.dol.gov. The information in this release will be made available in alternative format upon request (large print, Braille, audio tape or disc) from the COAST office. Please specify which news release when placing your request. Call 202- 693-7773 or TTY 202-693-7755.

http://www.usnewswire.com/

/© 2004 U.S. Newswire 202-347-2770/
via U.S. Newswire: Releases: Restoring Overtime Security for Millions of Working Americans; The Department of Labor's New Overtime Security Rules In Effect Today

Saturday, August 21, 2004

It Would Be Funnier If It Wasn't True

"I have to have a raise," the man said to his boss. "There are three other companies after me."

"Is that so?" asked the manager. "What other companies are after you?"

"The electric company, the telephone company, and the gas company."

found on Jokes and Humor Weblog

Monday, August 16, 2004

elise.com: On The Job

Elise's 'On The Job' blog is worth linking to and referring to often.

How to Interpret a Job Ad

Ian's Messy Desk offers some humorous advice on How to Interpret a Job Ad. Behind every joke is an element of truth.

Wednesday, August 11, 2004

You're not the boss of me!

Be Your Own Boss

Even though the small-business failure rate is daunting, this is an opportune moment for <> budding entrepreneurs. Low interest rates and a still-soft job market have made capital and employees available at affordable rates. Credit is in ample supply, and banks are looking to lend. Factor in strong consumer and government spending and a pent-up demand for new wares by companies, and the picture becomes even more attractive. "I can't imagine a better time, from a broader economic perspective, to start a small business," says Mark Zandi, chief economist of Economy.com. He also points to strengthening sales figures across most industries as another reason to hang out a shingle now: Competition is less tight as many established firms have all the business they can handle.

Yahoo! News (reprinted from US News and World Report)

[cross posted to Jobfiler]

Tuesday, August 10, 2004

Films to Fuel Your Job Search: Welcome to the Jungle - MyYahoo! Daily Tip

by Caroline Levchuck

Going from the classroom to the boardroom can be a shock to your system.

Check out these flicks for advice and inspiration on how to make a minor league job your launching pad to the majors.

"How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" (1967)
You may want to pick up a self-help book after watching this classic film. J. Pierpont Finch (Robert Morse) makes a meteoric rise from window-washer to vice president of the Worldwide Wicket Company thanks to unscrupulous advice in a how-to book. Word to the wise: Don't believe everything you read.

Reality Bites (10th Anniversary Edition) Budding filmmaker Lelaina (Winona Ryder) and her three Gen X friends find that college didn't necessarily prepare them for the perils of corporate America. A must-view when you're scared of selling out or surrounded by slackers.

The Secret of My Succe$s There's always room at the top, particularly when you invent a position there for yourself. Hey, it worked for Brantley Foster (Michael J. Fox). He goes from mailroom clerk to whiz kid executive, thanks to a vivid imagination, some quick changes and lots of close calls.

Wall Street
If you think greed is good, visit Wall Street. Bud Fox (Charlie Sheen), burgeoning big-time broker, aims high and lands the biggest client of his life. But hapless Fox lets his lust for money compromise his values, relationship with his family and stature as a law-abiding citizen. Let it be a lesson.

READ MORE ARTICLES FROM HOTJOBS AND YAHOO!:

How to Write a Resume That Gets Interviews
New and Emerging Occupations
Minor Matters That Make Your Interview

Read more career advice on Yahoo! HotJobs.
Sign up for Yahoo! HotJobs' newsletters and have career news delivered to your inbox.

Monday, August 09, 2004

How to earn a few extra Bucks by cleaning out your Basement

Okay, so it's the middle of summer and you're still unemployed. Why not earn a few extra bucks by cleaning out your basement or scouring the weekend yard sales in your neighborhood?

True story: Last weekend, I went to the Mountain Forums For Peace group yard sale at the Community Center. Traditionally, they have lots of good stuff, cheap. There, I found in a box of miscellaneous kitchen junk 3 old metal ice cube trays for 10 cents each. I placed them on eBay auctions with a starting bid of $7.99. They ended up closing at $15.50 plus shipping.

Now, obviously everything you find at a yard sale won't have this great a result - the key is to know what to look for and what to pay. A good general rule is to try to buy things for less than a dollar that you think you can sell for more than 5 bucks. It will cost you about 60 cents to list the item for a week, plus you pay eBay a % fee based on the final selling price. In the example cited above, then, my total costs on this item were about $1.68, leaving me a profit of $13.82. Plus the buyer covered my shipping costs.

If anyone would like more information on how to sell on eBay, please contact me. You can
visit my eBay Store here.

Sunday, August 08, 2004

Help Make Blogs More Visible!

Help Make Blogs More Visible!

NOTE: Be sure you paste live links for the Path List below.

There are by some estimates more than a million weblogs. But most of them get no visibility in search engines. Only a few "A-List" blogs get into the top search engine results for a given topic, while the majority of blogs just don't get noticed. The reason is that the smaller blogs don't have enough links pointing to them. But this posting could solve that. Let's help the smaller blogs get more visibility!

This posting is GoMeme 4.0. It is part of an experiment to see if we can create a blog posting that helps 1000's of blogs get higher rankings in Google. So far we have tried 3 earlier variations. Our first test, GoMeme 1.0, spread to nearly 740 blogs in 2.5 days. This new version 4.0 is shorter, simpler, and fits more easily into your blog.

Why are we doing this? We want to help thousands of blogs get more visibility in Google and other search engines. How does it work? Just follow the instructions below to re-post this meme in your blog and add your URL to the end of the Path List below. As the meme spreads onwards from your blog, so will your URL. Later, when your blog is indexed by search engines, they will see the links pointing to your blog from all the downstream blogs that got this via you, which will cause them to rank your blog higher in search results. Everyone in the Path List below benefits in a similar way as this meme spreads. Try it!
Instructions: Just copy this entire post and paste it into your blog. Then add your URL to the end of the path list below, and pass it on!

Path List

1. Minding the Planet
2. Wireless LAN
3. Writing Resources
4. BillBoard
5. Stock Quotes Stock Trading Stock Help
6. Christmas All Year
7. Quotes from Famous People
8. Recipes at World Famous Recipes
9. Jobs and Employment
10. Quotes
11. Jokes and Humor
12. 480 Area Code Guide
13. Phoenix Arizona East Valley Community Index
14. HTTP in Phoenix AZ
15. Daily Bible Verse
16. Love Poems
18. World Famous Recipes
19. Recipes Recipe
20. Members Space
21. Journey Inside My Mind
22. QuotesBlog
23. Get That Job!
24. (your URL goes here! But first, please copy this line and move it down to the next line for the next person).

NOTE: Be sure you paste live links for the Path List or use HTML code.

Tuesday, August 03, 2004

U.S. Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao Discusses Job Growth, Aid for Workers at Louisiana Economic Forum

To: National Desk

Contact: Dirk Fillpot of the U.S. Department of Labor, 202-693-4676

HAMMOND, La., Aug. 3 /U.S. Newswire/ -- U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao told the Louisiana Economic Forum that President Bush's leadership and sound economic policies have led to strong job growth in Louisiana and across America, and that the Administration's commitment to reforming training and employment programs will help workers find and prepare for new job opportunities in the growing economy.

"Nationally, this is the 10th straight month of job growth," Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao said in the Forum's keynote address at Southeastern Louisiana University. "More than 1.5 million new jobs have been created since last August. The national unemployment rate is now 5.6 percent, which is lower than the average unemployment rate of the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s."

The steady and consistent growth in the national economy is evident in Louisiana, Secretary Chao noted. Louisiana's unemployment rate has dropped a full percentage point since June of last year. Louisiana added 5,900 jobs in June, across a broad range of sectors. Secretary Chao also pointed out that while the economy continues to improve, the Administration is committed to helping workers who are still looking for good, high-paying jobs.

"These improvements are good news for Louisiana and for the country. But President Bush and this Administration recognize that there are folks in Louisiana who still need help. The Department of Labor has tremendous resources available to help workers who are looking for jobs, transitioning between jobs or upgrading their skills," Chao said.

Some of the services available to job seekers include job training and counseling. Workers can also receive help paying for transportation, child-care expenses and health insurance premiums while looking for work. Louisiana alone receives $132.8 million annually from the U.S. Department of Labor for training and employment services.

Chao also encouraged workers in need of assistance to visit one of 19 Comprehensive One-Stop Career Centers in Louisiana. Workers can find the nearest center at http://www.servicelocator.org.
via U.S. Newswire

Friday, July 30, 2004

University of Dayton's Transition to Teaching Program

The Transition to Teaching program is a federally-funded project that trains people without backgrounds in special education to become Intervention Specialists in Ohio. By utilizing an alternative pathway to special education teacher licensure, cohorts in Columbus and Dayton will work toward full licensure through the Transition to Teaching program.

Wednesday, July 28, 2004

Wanted: Your Job Hunting Success Stories

That's right, gentle readers. I want to let others know about how you have successfully found a job. It may be your current one or a previous one - it doesn't matter. I want to encourage other job seekers with your success. You will receive no reimbursement from this, except for the gratification that your story has helped to inspire countless others who are where you once were.

Be specific, but don't mention any company names. That may sound like a contradiction in terms, and you may disagree with this approach - let me know and I may reconsider. Instead, use a generic title, such as "software development consulting company", "global consumer products company", and so on. If you would like some help, then let me know.

I will only use your initials or first name and last initial when presenting your success story. I am specifically interested in answers to the following:

  • What position were you applying for?
  • How did you contact the particular company?
  • Describe the interviewing process.
  • Did you work part-time or as a contractor/consultant with the company before being hired?
  • How long was the process from your first contact with the company to your first day of work?
  • Describe your emotional state during the process. Were you anxious? Excited? Stressed? Impatient? Frustrated? Let us know.
So email me your job hunting success stories at danimal0416 AT gmail.com (replace the " AT " with the "@", of course), and we'll get these published here at "Get That Job!"

Happy Belated Blog Birthday!

I just remembered that I started this blog two years ago! Initially it was for myself, but I think others have found it helpful, too. Maybe.

Buyer Beware - of Job Search sites that charge a fee for their "services"

While there are a few legitimate companies out there that do charge jobseekers a fee for their services, it is my firm belief that 90% of the job search sites that ask job seekers for money are to be approached with a very large grain of caution.

Here is an article about a recent experience I had with a bogus job site, and some tips on how to watch out for, and protect yourself from, job site scams.

click here to read entire article on Jobfiler.com

Tuesday, July 27, 2004

People Talk: Tips to Boost Your Professional Rep -- Quit It and Admit It

(My Yahoo! Daily Tip)

by Caroline Levchuck

You can remake yourself on the job. But first you have to stop the real (or imagined) problem behavior.

First, identify what's holding you back. Do you regularly miss deadlines? Are you defensive with your manager or argumentative with coworkers? Are you reluctant to take on new tasks?

Once you've admitted to yourself that you need to improve your performance, you have to admit it to your manager. Meet with your boss and share how you want to improve. Ask for feedback on what kind of behavior she'd like to see and ask for her support. Come up with a schedule to check in regularly and discuss your improvement.

If you want further help, talk to the human resource department. HR often has tools to help employees who are struggling, including job coaching and counseling.

Sunday, July 25, 2004

Job Posting of the Day: Television Host

Position Description:

The Discovery Channel is seeking a very adventurous, charismatic, good-looking, 22-30 year old male with a great sense of humor to track dangerous animals around the world. Should live in Southern California. No prior television or animal experience required, but must be entertaining and unselfconscious on camera. Send us an 8x11 photo, brief biography and a home video clip showing and telling why you would be a great candidate. Deadline for receiving material is July 26. Kathleen Phelan Los Angeles office, West Beach Productions 2214 Walnut Ave Venice, CA 90291 for more info, call Kathleen @ 310-391-1242 or email kphelan835@aol.com.

Job originally posted on: Hire A Vet
Cross-posted to The Job Files (Jobfiler's Job Search Support Forums)

Friday, July 23, 2004

Do as I say, not as I do

The number of workers getting fired for violating e-mail policies is rising as companies face more subpoenas of e-mail records, according to a new poll.

Twenty-five percent of companies terminated a worker for violating e-mail policies, up from 22 percent last year, according to the poll.

Employees who get fired often are sending messages that violate a company's e-mail policy regarding content, such as messages with inappropriate language or photos. Another common mistake: using the company e-mail system for personal messages.



General Career News

Thursday, July 22, 2004

Are you tired of sending resumes into outer space? Here are four times to get employers to return your phone calls.

Career News-Net-Temps

Tuesday, July 20, 2004

Off the Clock Job Market! Events

I had just finished some browsing for some positions at the local paper's website, and I clicked the link in their sidebar that says "Off the Clock". It turns out to be a list of upcoming Career Fairs, etc. in the Dayton area.

Hmm.

Monday, July 19, 2004

Good News!

Jobfiler made the The Riley Guide in their section on Job Search Guidance.

For those of you who don't know, Jobfiler is a hobby of mine, a free job search application and portal that I built and launched in November of last year. It's nice to see it made the grade with the folks over at Riley!

Find a Job That Doesn't Feel Like Work

by Caroline Levchuck

There are a lot of jobs out there in this big, wide world -- thousands of interesting, exciting professions that may never have occurred to you.

This week, we'll profile four of them -- from movie extra to professional golfer.

While you may not be interested in applying for *these* jobs, we think there's value in noting the diversity of positions available. After reading this week's series, you may decide that your job search could benefit from some "out-of-the-box" thinking.
  • Tuesday: "Where the Wild Things Are"
  • Wednesday: "Lights, Camera, Action!"
  • Thursday: "Putt Your Way to a 'Hole in One' Career"
  • Friday: "Spread Your Wings and Fly"
If you have a Yahoo! account, you can set up your My Yahoo! page to view Daily Tips like this one.

Template Changes Coming Soon!

Since I began this blog two years ago, the template (layout, design, etc.) has not changed that much. I feel that it's time to take advantage of more flexibility that the Blogger folks have provided and update the template.

So, in the not-too-distant future, look for this blog to have a different look. I've already set it up so that each post has a title and link field, and I've enabled Blogger comments.

In addition, I need to update/upgrade the blogroll. I created the blogroll you currently see at a time when users of the Blogrolling.com basic service were able to have multiple blogrolls. Since the folks over there have changed the service, they graciously still provide the blogroll, but I'm unable to make changes to it.

If none of this makes any sense to you, then that's okay. The bottom line is that we're making some changes to this blog, which I hope are for the better!

Take care and go get that job!

Update Your News Readers/Aggregators

If you happen to use a newsreader or newsaggregator to get updated information from this website, then you'll want to update the URL. Point to the following URL:

http://getthatjob.blogspot.com/atom.xml

Thursday, July 15, 2004

Freebies for Jobseekers

Most of the big career sites offer free resources and support for jobseekers, from articles and advice to newsletters, resume critiques and more. The key to taking advantage of these freebies is twofold: limit the information you give them and don't agree to pay for anything.

Set up a freebie email account to subscribe to newsletters and register on these sites. That way, you can discard the email address when you're done with it (or if it gets overwhelmed by spam).

Here are a couple of free offers worth a look:
Get a free resume critique from A and A Resume
Let CareerBuilder email you with jobs targeted to your specifications
Get access to millions of professionals who want to give and get advice while building a mutually beneficial network on Monster.com
Subscribe to HotJobs free newsletter for job seekers with articles and tips on conducting your job search from networking and initial inquiries to interviewing and negotiating your salary requirements.

Wednesday, July 14, 2004

USA Today.com | Teacher's aides filling growing gap

I thought this article was interesting, since I'm exploring teaching as a profession.

Tuesday, July 13, 2004

Career Coaching

The right career or life coach can be a valuable asset to you in your overall career path. Often, people who seek career counseling are not only planning for their next job but the one after that (and the one after that) – looking at their careers in big picture terms and focusing their professional growth and development activities along that path.

Career coaches can help people to create and carry out plans related to their life and career goals. They can assist with resume preparation and job searches, guide people toward suitable industries or fields, or help resolve specific career challenges that are holding them back.

With the number of career coaches out there, it can be daunting to try to find the right one to work with. To help in this process, we've added a coaches database to Jobfiler.com. If you are a coach, or have a coach you're working with now, please encourage them to stop by and create their free listing in this directory.

Additional Resources
The Coach Connection
How to find the right career coach
ICC Career Coaches & Mentors
Quint Careers Coaches List
International Career Development Conference October 27-31, 2004

Friday, July 09, 2004

Retail Job Opportunities
(don't knock it unless you've tried it)
If your unemployment has run out, perhaps a part-time job in retail can help to make ends meet until your next career opportunity comes along. Here are some links to major retailers job listings:
CostCo Jobs
Kmart Jobs
Nordstroms
Sears Jobs
Target/Mervyn's/Marshall Fields
Wal-Mart Stores

In addition to checking the general job boards like Monster.com, HotJobs.com, Career Builder, etc., there are some retail-specific job boards worth a look:
AllRetailJobs.com
Retail Jobs on Career Builder
Canadian Retail Jobs
Retail Jobs in the UK
Click here to read more about jobs in retail.

Wednesday, July 07, 2004

Get certified and get ahead

I got this in my e-mail, and thought it was worth sharing. I've already went in and taken a project management certification test, and am planning on taking at least a test a day between now and the end of their promotion.

"In celebration of our 5 millionth member registration last month, we have decided to open up the test library for the 2-weeks prior to the launch of the Candidate Database, July 15th. No, you're not seeing things...FREE. All 450+ Brainbench certification assessments will be FREE (does not include certificate). click here for promotion details"

Register now for a FREE online Brainbench Certification Exam.



[crossposted to Jobfiler.com]

Tuesday, July 06, 2004

Job Search Tip: Check out Temp Agency Job Listings

If you're between jobs and willing to try your hand at temping for a few extra dollars, temp agencies are the way to go.

Most of the larger temp agencies now have a technical division where you can find contract, contract-to-hire, and direct placement positions in the engineering and computer fields.

Here are couple of temp agency sites worth checking out:
AppleOne
Kelly Services
Adecco Technical
Manpower
Spherion
Career Blazers
Talent Tree

Some other temp agencies sites I visited which did not appear to have online job search capabilities (BAD!) or even a web site at all (WORSE!!) include Olsten, Randstad, Quantum Staffing, TAD Temporaries, to name a few.

Additional resources and information:
The Red Guide to Temp Agencies
HotTempJobs.net
Jobfiler Job Search Organizer


Tax relief justified

Corporate tax legislation now moving through Congress would go a long way toward making U.S. companies more competitive in the global marketplace. This is good news for the economy, for the manufacturing sector and especially for workers. Read more...

Friday, July 02, 2004

Job Search Tip: Set up automated job search agents

Looking at the lead sources you have targeted for your job search, these sources most likely include job banks, classifieds, recruiters, discussion lists, newsgroups, etc. Select a number of key sites that you feel would be of assistance, and set up automated job search agents to search for you daily/weekly and email you the results. This ensures that you are not missing any key job postings, and also gives you an action item first thing every morning (review the jobs that have been emailed to you and respond to the ones that are interesting). Setting up job search agents is a free and easy way to give yourself an edge in your job search. Some of the sites that I recommend looking at and setting up automated agents for include:


Once you have your agents set up, it's merely a matter of staying on top of reviewing and responding to the postings as they come in. If you are tracking your job search using JobFiler or another job search organizer, you can also get a sense for which sites are bringing you the best leads over time, as well as which job sites are posting the same old tired jobs, week after week.

For more job search tips and advice, check out Jobfiler's job search support forums, where you can post your job search related question in our Q&A section and have your question answered by a professional career coach.

Happy Hunting!

Thursday, May 27, 2004

Some encouraging comments from a reader

Thanks, Jen!

Jen gave us some encouraging comments recently:

I just wanted to commend the creators on a wonderful job with this blog. I graduated from a prestigious university in 2003, spent 6 months job searching before I finally found something that I was content with. Unfortunately that was temporary, and then I ended up with another temp job, and the owner turned out to be a complete psycho (i filed harassment against him, and he hasn't paid me for the last month that I worked -- and it's been 2 months now). Anyways, to the person who just completed their 500th resume... I feel your pain. Unemployment is awful -- especially when you're not eligible for unemployment benefits and you can't pay your rent. *sigh* Alright I'm ending it here... feel free to visit my blog-- there's been a lot of job-search related frustrations lately. :) GoodLuck!