FREE Workshop on Money Making Investment Opportunities! Philadelphia, New Jersey and Delaware

 This is a complimentary offer for all Job Ladder folks in the Philadelphia, New Jersey and Delaware Area!!

You've all been invited to attend a complimentary Rich Dad© Learn to Be Rich™ Workshop, offering hands-on, detailed strategies and techniques to help you advance your financial goals.

Come and learn the techniques to channel your desire for wealth into actual money-making investment opportunities. Through our program, we help you identify the right opportunities and educate you on how to capitalize them.

Attend a complimentary workshop near you:

Register Now	Tuesday, January 4th 12:30pm or 6:00pm	The Crowne Plaza Hotel 2349 West Marlton Pike, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Register Now	Tuesday, January 4th 12:30pm or 6:00pm	The Embassy Suites Hotel 654 South College Avenue, Newark , DE 19713
Register Now	Wednesday, January 5th 12:30pm or 6:00pm	The Doubletree Hotel 237 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Register Now	Wednesday, January 5th 12:30pm or 6:00pm	The Crowne Plaza Hotel West 4010 City Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19131
Register Now	Thursday, January 6th 12:30pm or 6:00pm	The Dolce Hotel 301 West Dekalb Pike, King of Prussia, PA 19406
Register Now	Thursday, January 6th 12:30pm or 6:00pm	The Hilton Garden Inn 800 Route 130, Hamilton, NJ , 08690

Contact Us!

If your having trouble finding positions or need your resume looked at by a professional please do NOT hesitate to contact us here at Job Ladder!

We will answer your emails and provide the best information possible to help you reach your goals.

Email us at: Job.ladder@yahoo.com
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Thanks for your support!!

Reader Email: Its Been 10 Months and I'm Still Out of Work!

Reader Email: 

Subject: Its Been 10 Months and I'm Still Out of Work!


I am writing this email to you because I have ran out of options.

My life has taken a downward spiral because of me being laid off about 10 months ago. I have been on numerous interviews but nothing seems to pan out. I have 3 children and I've been divorced for 2 years. It has been difficult to support my children with the money I receive from unemployment. I REALLY need to get back to work fast! 

I'm writing this email because maybe there is something you may know that I don't and frankly I don't have any options and I haven't any shame. 

What do I do now? I've exhausted options. How can I make my life a little better. Between money and getting a new job?

Thanks for your time.

Melanie W. 
Chicago, IL

Job Ladder-Answer:

Hi Melanie,

Thanks for writing!

The economy is a lot better than what it used to be a year ago. That is the truth.

At this point if you own your home I would suggest downsizing if you can. If you cannot downsize by selling your home then rent your home out and move in with family or get an apartment. Don't worry about your kids having their own room. As long as they are with you and you love them that is all that matters. If your husband is still living ask if the kids can stay with him until you can get on your feet. (You didn't mention your relationship with him so this is an assumption).

As far as going on numerous interviews and nothing "panning out" I would like to know more about how you interview and what your resume looks like. Its hard to give advice without these proper materials in analyzing where the problem lies. I can set you up to have your resume reviewed and looked at for free! If you need clothing to help you get that new position we can help you with that as well!

Most companies today look for out-of-the-box thinkers and for those who initiate things. Take a look at LinkedIn [dot] com for companies who are potentially hiring here. Expand your ability to now brand yourself in whatever career path you desire. While looking for new positions. It is important to kind of put yourself out there when it comes to new employment. Today, it is harder to look for good positions but you must look in places you would never think of. If your not as computer savvy go to your local library and ask someone for help.

Since it has been 10 months, employers that you interview with may ask why there is such a large gap. Use the post I wrote about gaps and employment here to help guide your way in answering those types of questions.

Lastly, keep the hunger alive and try not to get discouraged. Send over any more information and I will do my best to help you.

-LJ at Job Ladder
job.ladder@yahoo.com

Want to make MORE Money?

Going to school for the right major used to be easy to decide. However, no matter what major you chose or what job you end up getting.... depending on what path you choose a job may not be so close as you thought.

This is reality folks. What ever major you choose depends on YOUR ability to help move it forward. Some majors require less of YOU and more of the knowledge you obtained (degree aka piece of paper).

Although society says majoring in Engineering will get you a position as soon as your out of college and you'll definitely get paid 56K ...... that may not be the case.

What you did while in school such as volunteering, internships, part-time jobs you had and even your GPA can help or hurt you for that first new position out of school. Everyone's case is different and some are luckier than others.

The point is ....get off your BUM and make moves that support your aspirations and desires.

Still looking for work?

Its holiday time and your still unemployed. What now?

The worst time to look for a position is around holiday time. But don't worry you should still apply. Just because its the holidays doesn't mean your job search should end. Take this opportunity to fill out as many applications as you can. Something should stick. After the new year you can feel assured in receiving a call back from someone.

Here are some tips you should consider:

1. Fine tune your resume to the specific job/ position to which you are applying.

2. Consider networking every chance you get. (Social networking is your best bet)

3. Apply to several temp agencies in your area just so you can stay busy and keep your skills in tact.

4. Do NOT post your resume on Careerbuilder. It is a swamp for spammers.

5. Remain positive. Positive thinking leads to positive results.

6. Read a book! This may be the least of your concerns. But reading or studying for a certification can not only help you feel better but can also enhance your skill set while waiting to be employed. Stay busy!

**Do not lose hope. Although the job market is not stable. People are getting hired everyday. Keep trying and don't give up. :)

How to Succeed in your Career

 The keys to success are easier to obtain then you may think. 90% of the time the only thing holding you back from obtaining the success you deserve is yourself. If you don't realize your own self worth or potential, no one else will.

The keys to success begin from within. You must believe in your self worth.

Okay..... enough with the mushy stuff on with the business.

*I'm going to use the STAR method to describe how to reach success. If you don't know what the STAR method is.... look here.

Step 1:
Situation: You want to reach success but don't really know how to maximize your own value.

Step 2:
Task: Begin outlining what it is you would like to succeed at. What is your overall goal? Outline the steps so you can SEE what it is your after.
Sometimes seeing things in black and white send triggers to your brain. (No they don't actually but its a nice thought).

Step 3:
Action: You can now utilize your outline for your goal as a guide. Analyze and ask yourself.... "how can I reach this goal"?
Depending on what your goal is.... patience is a virtue! Understanding the simplicity or complexity of your goal is definitely in order. For example, if your goal is to retire early that means making the right investment choices such as 401K or even Roth IRA, CD's or Interest Savings accounts. If you want to know more about investments please visit my friend at Motley Fool.
Your plan of action is a pivotal step and must be done with confidence. If you don't know something then ask! If you have no one to ask just ask here at Job Ladder! We are here to help people get off their butts and back into the workforce. Our connections here are extensive. Try us out!

Step 4:
Result: Because you worked your butt off in Step 3 the results should impress you. Getting to a results step is NOT overnight. You must be dedicated to achieving your goals. You MUST work for what you want.
Results that come quick may or may not be beneficial to you.

**For more on growth and branding yourself in the job market view the post here.

"Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and success have no meaning". ~Benjamin Franklin

Veteran's Day Freebies!!

To all those who are here and are not here, We THANK YOU!!!

Located below is a list of restaurants and companies sharing in the festivities.

Applebees:

Military veterans and active-duty Service Members will be able to eat free at any Applebee's across the U.S. on Veteran’s Day, Thursday, Nov. 11, 2010. There will be six entrées available from the menu. Guests will be asked to show one or more of the following as proof of service: a U.S. Uniform Services Identification Card, U.S. Uniform Services Retired Identification Card, Current Leave and Earnings Statement, Veterans Organization Card, a photograph in uniform, or wearing a uniform in person.
For more information about Veterans Day at Applebee's, visit the Applebee's website.

Golden Corral:

Golden Corral's 9th annual Military Appreciation Monday dinner will be held on Monday, November 15, 2010, from 5 to 9 pm in all Golden Corral restaurants nationwide. The free dinner meal is a special "thank you tribute" to any person who has ever served in the United States Military. If you are a veteran, retired, currently serving, or in the National Guard/Reserves, you are invited to join us for Golden Corral's Military Appreciation Monday dinner. To date, Golden Corral restaurants have provided over 2.2 million free meals and contributed over $3.3 million to the Disabled American Veterans organization. Go to the website for more information.

Outback Steakhouse:

As an expression of Outback Steakhouse's appreciation to our Country's veterans and active duty military*, a free Bloomin' Onion and beverage of choice (one non-alcoholic drink or one draft Anheuser Busch beer except where prohibited by law) will be available to them at every Outback in the country on Veterans Day. Visit Outback's website for more info.


For more venues, restaurants, parks celebrating veteran's day please visit this site for details!

Social Networking on Company Time

Today, being online means more than just your computer. It now means your cell phone. Connecting to facebook, myspace (whatever happened to them), linkedin, twitter, etc. have all become a part of our culture.

The immediate impulse for results and the anxiousness to find out "WHATS GOING ON" is uncanny like never before.

If you sit in a cubicle and are not located near a window, social networking is your key to what is going on outside.

However, if your networking on company time chances are you will be caught whether on their computer or your cell phone. Depending on your position you may or may not be able to get away with it.
In all honesty it is in your best interest to stay off of any company's computer while on a social networking site. If you don't log off properly chances are someone can view your information and that can be devastating. If your on a social networking site such as facebook because its so widely known a co-worker walking past your desk could automatically know what site your on. Its not like myspace where you can customize your page to your style.

Here is a word of advice. Keep social networking while on company time on your cell phone until you get home. Easier said then done. Then go here if your bored.

Still Looking for Work?

 

 If your still looking for work, your not alone. The average unemployment rate is at 9.2%. Unfortunately with the turn of events in Washington, DC we could see a massive boost of confusion before anything is really figured out. BUT with hope that 9.2% will go down faster than you can say .....well you get the point.

Most job seekers are now focusing more on social networking to obtain positions. A suggestion given by most Human Resource professionals is to think and look outside of the box. In other words be more outgoing and try LinkedIn. LinkedIn is a social network platform that consists of a wide range of people, races, positions, industries, you name the occupation and 9 times out of 10 SOMEONE has it and is on the network. Link up with them and be a friend you never know what you may have until you try.

Other social networks like Facebook could also be a source but you may have to work a little harder. 

What do you think about LinkedIn and its network of professionals?

Bored at Work? 5 Sites to KILL Time

The worst part of a 9 to 5 is the inevitable force of boredom. You will experience this at some point.

There are several different things you can do (besides work) to help you through this dilemma.

DISCLAIMER: If you lose your job we ARE NOT responsible for your actions and consequences!


The best way to kill some time while at work.....is to pretend like your working. Remember this is an unbiased blog and the reality is......things happen. Being bored at work is one of them.

Here are 5 websites to keep you happy, sane and "working".

1. People of Walmart

This site shows pictures of crazy walmart shoppers in their ultra unique attire. This was so funny we had to rate this site #1. Pssssssss don't laugh so hard!

2. F my Life

This site is text format. People from all over come to this site to express things in their life that messed up their day, week, or even month.

3. Kewlbox.com

This site has tons of games. You can play by yourself or with friends.

4. Office Humor Blog

Tons of ideas for office pranks, videos, pictures, etc. This site has it all.

5. Falling Sand

Virtual falling sand that you can color and customize. Take a look!


***Remember watch your time on these sites. They are semi-safe for work. If you get caught THAT'S ON YOU!

Explaining Gaps in Your Resume

So you have gaps in your Resume....

You finally got an interview from a company that you've been waiting to hear from for months. Now what? The gap in your resume needs to be explained, throughly in order for you to still stand a chance. Regardless of what the gap is for, laid off, fired, in jail, personal matter, WHATEVER the case you need a comfortable landing pad to give your reasoning.

Look at these two cases:
 

1. Gap Reason: Raising a Child with Disabilities

Last job: Information Technology Analyst

Arnold had to leave his job of 11 years to stay home with his wife to care for their son. Arnold worked for a software company that had contracts all across the globe. Arnold was out of work for 4 years. While leaving his job he focused most of his time and energy into his sons' development. As his son got older Arnold felt that his family needed the money and it was time to go back out into the job force. Arnold held 4 certifications in which they all were expired. Arnold took what little money he had and re-took all of the certifications while looking for a new position.

Arnold received a call back and a phone interview 5 months after he started applying. It was the only employer who had called him back to ask "why have you been out of the job force for so long"? Arnold replied, "I was taking care of my son. By taking care of him I learned a great deal of patience and the ability to problem solve quicker than I can blink. Because of this situation I have a new hunger for working and providing for my family and this position would certainly be the right foot in the right direction".

With an answer like that how can you lose? Notice he did not mention what was wrong with his son. When you mention specifics or give too much detail you will shy employers from hiring you. If Arnold told the hiring manager that his son had development problems (which upon assumption) could be ongoing, Arnold may never get a position because the employer would think Arnold would leave work again.

Be discrete!

2. Gap Reason: Laid Off


Last job: Wealth Management Rep

Monica received a phone call from a Hiring Manager at an investment firm she was dying to work for. Monica has been laid off for 1 year and 5 months. Although she was laid off and it was NOT her fault. Monica unfortunately suffered the consequence. She didn't start actively searching for a position until 10 months AFTER she was laid off. She had no idea how to explain why it took so long for her to find a position.

While Monica was on her hiatus she did a lot of reading about the economy and always read the newspaper about stocks and other thriving investments. In her interview she decided to engage her reading efforts into the "conversation". "Although the job market is still suffering I managed to keep track of current trends in money market and shared accounts". ----Monica did the RIGHT thing by engaging an appropriate and personal activity into the interview. At this point Monica can go deeper into what she found and thought about the economy and its specifics to keep the gap in her resume closed.

Job Interview Jitters....

Ever feel jittery before an interview?

Its normal. Your anxiousness and nervousness is just a matter of you feeling unsure of doing your best. However, letting your nerves get the best of  you can take a toll and alter your interviewing performance.

Practice the Top 10 Interview Questions to help you get prepared and get moving.

By practicing it will help ease your weariness and will cause you to think more clearly and less on the 'what if'. Many interviewers can sense your nervousness so instead of making it obvious take some time out for your self and practice breathing and what questions will most likely be asked.

**Know after the interview that you did your best. If you don't think you did, go back over what you could have done better and knock it out on another interview!

Remain hopeful and happy and you will definitely get a job!

What tips can you share to help others get over those jitters?

Help! I Have Workplace Issues!

As long as you work and need to obtain income you will have some type of workplace issue or situation. It is inevitable to avoid. UNLESS you work for yourself and have zero employees BUT some of us don't have that luxury.

Workplace issues can create hostile environments and can lead to horrible reputation fumbles. Properly examining the core elements of the problem can lead to a positive environment. Ignoring workplace issues for a long period of time only lead to an overwhelming amount of grief.

Resolving workplace issues starts with all employees but if no one steps up to the plate YOU can begin the cycle.

Steps to Resolve Workplace Problems

1. Identify the Problem

Uncover what the important matters are so you and everyone else can move on. Once the problem is uncovered, work on the solutions and how to deal with future issues that are the same. Remain positive and focused only on the sole issue and anything slightly related to it.

2. Determine the size of the problem

Understanding how large or small the problem is will help you figure out who to talk to about it. If the problem is small and only deals with a certain group and may not effect others then speaking with a team leader or manager would be better suit. Larger issues on a bigger scale may involve Human Resources, etc. figure out the scope and size of the issue and move forward accordingly.

3. Documentation

To back up your claim you will need some type of documentation or facts. Write down or keep a log away from work or even in your PDA/ Smartphone to document certain events, etc. that led to the issue. Having these items will save time and future disagreements.

*Find more tips here

Have you ever had a workplace issue?

Need Energy in the Morning?

 

Sometimes getting a cup of coffee can be a headache. Long lines, dirty coffee pot, no sugar, these are all annoying and frustrating situations that can deter your day.

Finding an alternative to coffee that is ready to go when you are is your best bet. According to livestrong.com they have listed in no particular order, 10 energy drinks to help fuel and boost you through your day. 

The ranking:

1. Rockstar Energy **

2. Monster**

3. GURU

4. 5-Hour Energy **

5. FRS Health Energy Drink

6. XS Energy Drink

7. Crunk Energy Drink **

8. Xylence Xenergy Drink

9. Bawls Energy Drink

10. Full Throttle Energy Drink **

** Indicates having tried the energy drink and liking it.

What energy drinks have you tried?

How to Climb the Corporate Ladder

Its easy to say just "try" harder and you will benefit from having a successful career. But honestly most people don't even know the fundamentals of obtaining a successful start that lead to a rewarding career path.

Properly outlining your 'likes' or 'dislikes' is a concrete start. Finding out what your niche is can help steer you into a better direction.

Climbing the corporate ladder begins and ends with you, only. The best way to learn about how to climb effectively comes from people who have already been there. Ask someone who knows the ropes to become a mentor to you so you can reach your goals as well.

**If you have no one to ask then I will tell you.

1. Focus on being positive

Find something unique about the position you have. Do not force yourself to pick something and fall in love with it. Being positive oozes with benefits. From smiling at a manager to speaking up in a meeting about your thoughts will positively impact your career and leadership potential.


2. Your Network is your Net-worth

Keep not only positive individuals in your circle but those who are actually doing something with their lives. If you are around people that are not involved or care about where their life is headed. That is an opportunity for disaster. In order for you to grow and prosper you must evaluate yourself as well as your association with others.

3. Networking

Every day of every minute is an opportunity to network with others. While in line at Starbucks to sitting next to a stranger at a park, there are thousands of people loathing the globe. That means there are more opportunities than ever to network. To network with individuals that have like interests take a look at meetup.com to find groups or individuals who are interested in networking about the same hobbies, careers, etc. And as always Google is your friend.

4. Keep learning

Although you may have or may have not went to college you must always learn something new. Begin attending a seminar, webinar or conference that your interested in for hobbies or are work related. It doesn't matter what job or career goal you have learning more about your craft will parachute you to new heights. Most people remain satisfied with their current status at work. You have the chance to sky rocket by learning new & innovative ways to improve not only yourself but your employer. That is an A+

Start today by creating an outline of your goals and initiatives and soon you will be a corporate leader or boss. Just send some credits my way when you make it! :)

Cliques in the Workplace

From group meetings to sitting at the lunch table. Cliques in the workplace are all over. Not getting involved or learning to adapt to this "game" could seriously injure your chance of job / career survival.

Oftentimes we think that along with a new job we have new responsibilities, new endeavors and new people to meet and engage with at work. Those co-workers could sever your chances of getting to the number 1 spot instantly by your non-outgoing and neglect to attend after hour functions and birthday gatherings.

*sarcasm*

Maintaining a healthy and "social" relationship with your co-workers is essential to your advancement. Believe it or not if you don't make yourself available enough to at least laugh at a funny joke in your cubicle or attend Johnny's birthday fiesta as well as your always by yourself because you feel you do not relate! *sigh* This could hurt your chances of either keeping your job or effect your chances of advancement with that specific employer.

Cliques stick together and help each other out even if you do the same type of work someone is bound to exceed and leave the pack behind. So rather be an outsider get in the game and play to win!

*Easier said then done? Try it. If not ask me questions I'll assist you.
What are YOUR thoughts. Are you in a clique at work?

Why Can't I Find a Job??

  

Finding a job in today's economy is becoming worse than finding a good prize in a cracker jack box. Job applications are becoming harder to figure out and frustrations over finding good job candiadates are becoming more and more tiresome. 

So how do we fix this dilemma? According to CNN Money the reason for the mass of unemployed workers is not because of the lack of jobs it is because of the amount of unqualified workers. There is an apparent mismatch when it comes to finding good candidates to fill up the jobs to make the unemployment rate go down. Currently the US unemployment rate is 9.2% and should have gone down months ago. 

Also according to CNN Money the unemployment rate is also due to the housing market. Because of the major foreclosure wave many homeowners cannot leave their homes before completely selling it which means a potential good candidate cannot make a move due to their housing payments and responsibilities.

At this time the easiest way to a better situation would be to invest in yourself. Education can lead to many more opportunities as well as Personal Branding. Become a shining star wherever you go and continue to network and know your worth. 

This dilemma is not forever!

How can one recover from not having a job for months? Share your story.....

FREE RESUME HELP CONTEST!!!!

Rules:

In order to receive this exclusive and free offer you must be over 18 years of age. You must comment and or "Like" posts both on Facebook and on this blog site. The winners must consistently make comments and or like posts to be considered in this free offer. The more participation the better for the potential winner. Sign up to comment on this blog site.

**Job Ladder reserves the right to withdraw this contest based on low participation**

As a winner you are responsible for obtaining your own position. Job Ladder is NOT responsible for you in not obtaining a position based on your free resume or loss of wages, time out of work for interviews based on recognition of your resume. Once resume is received you waive your right to hold Job Ladder responsible for any consequences or actions. 

If you win this exclusive offer and obtain a position based off of the resume written on your behalf  let us know how it worked out for you so we can highlight your achievement if you choose to do so.

This offer BEGINS as of today Friday October 8, 2010 and ENDS November 8, 2010 at 5pm. The 2 winners will be randomly selected, announced and notified as of November 12, 2010 at 10am.

Good Luck! :)

Keeping your cool in the Workplace

 

Being cordial in the workplace is very essential to career. You don't have to like everyone you work with but you must certainly keep a work friendly relationship. Sometimes frustrations in our personal lives can spew over while at work. Arguing, yelling, etc. are absolute ways to have you receive your pink slip.  Take control of yourself and be mindful that someone is always watching you no matter what position you have or where your located. Always be at your best.

Here are some tips to help you keep your cool in the workplace:

1. Take a Break

Sometimes being cooped up in your cubicle is not the best thing. Take a walk or short drive somewhere just to clear your head and get away from whats bothering you. Come back, refocus and smile. Nothing in life is worth so much haste.

2. Talk About It

Having a close friend or family member is key for things like this. Walk somewhere that may have a bit of privacy and discuss what is bothering you. Not talking to anyone when a problem occurs will only be fuel to the fire later on. Never take out your problems on others.

3. Write

Write about your problem if you can't speak to someone right away. Write until you feel better. Writing is therapeutic and will help you to focus on what is truly bothering you. Create a journal just for yourself of everything that bothers you or only things that happen at work. Your journal could unlock patterns you never knew you had or occurred from others. 

How would you handle a disagreement at work?

The Pink Slip: Your FIRED!

Being fired and laid off are both devastating and tragic. Whether you knew the inevitable was coming or not, it is still unfortunate.

The best thing for you to do after being fired or even laid off is to take a break. Yes you may be pressed for cash but take a 2 or 3 day break just to cool off. That break gives you a chance to think about why you were let go and what you could do better with the next position. This may be easier said then done but you must take time for yourself to figure out new goals.

Once you feel better after day 3 begin your search online, in newspapers and on your social network (s) (LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter) to find leads to jobs that fit your expertise. Also try Careerbuilder and Monster. As of today I am finding that more people who are unemployed are getting positions through social networking sites. Because of this new endeavor Personal Branding is one of the fastest and easiest ways to get hired, again and again.To understand personal branding visit my post here.

The best points when losing a job is to learn from the experience, remain hungry, remain hopeful, and remain happy. Once again, this may sound easier said then done but there are a lot of opportunities. If your in desperate need of money I suggest being humble and taking a position that is easy to get for the moment. I also suggest going to as many temp agencies as possible. You will be worn out from searching, interviewing, the phone ringing, and stress for the first month or couple of months. The key is to be persistent and never give up.

Answer these! 

Were you ever let go from a position? 

How did it make you feel? 

What did you do to overcome?

Surviving work past 2pm....

Usually around 2pm the body begins to lapse and is fatigued. Especially for those who are consistently sitting in front of a computer and at a desk. Inactivity can occur because of being uncomfortable or dehydrated.
Here are some tips to help you get through your work day and maintain your after work plans without going home and taking a nap.

Tips:

1) Get up Get moving

Get up very 30-40 mins from your desk to walk around or go to the water cooler. If you don't have the opportunity to walk around go to the bathroom and use lukewarm water and splash it on your face THEN use cold water and splash it on your face. This should slightly enerize you. Do this approx 4 times while at work and you should feel great.

2) Light Snack

Its good to have a lite snack at work such as peanuts or almonds to keep you full and awake. The motion in chewing is enough to keep you alert. It also helps because nuts are low in calories so by lunch time you won't have the urge to pig out!

3) Stay Hydrated

Going back to number 1 the more hydrated (drink only water or light fruit drink) the more you have to go to the bathroom. Therefore you hit two birds with one stone.

4) Lite Exercise

Like #1 getting up and moving is great. If you have the advanatge of taking a brisk walk during lunch, do it! You will feel supurb once you get off at 5 o'clock.

5)Minty things

Having minty things such as mint candy, tea, gum or even hand lotion can help stay awake and revived. The minty scent wakes the brain up and opens your nasal passages. It also slightly attracts others to your cubicle...mingle....mingle....mingle

How Can You Save Your Job?

 

The average butt kissing could probably help save your job in this economy. But what about long term? 

When feeling the pressure for competition (co-workers), personal stress and the need to just make more money, saving your job is important. The question is, how far will you go to both save your job and move ahead in your career? 

Keeping your job or even the fear of losing it should not plague your mind. Moving ahead with your career is where your focus should be. Long term goals and job transition to roles with greater promise can have a significant return if applied correctly. Absorb as much as you possibly can from your current position and then quickly move on. Don't stay in a position where you will not receive significant growth, stability or happiness. The problems at work can follow you home and into your personal life.

You can exercise everyday, eat healthy, breathe in and out deeply but the mental anguish of going to a place where you know your not getting what you deserve is only a set-up for disaster.

Some tips on how to save your job:

1) Invest in yourself

Try and enhance your potential by attending courses that closely fit with your career goals. Brush up on your skills on the job by asking question and mingling with other co-workers. Certifications are also good (depending on your position) and save money instead of going for another degree. 

2) Network

Networking and being outgoing are very important in moving up the ladder. Quiet and shy people won't make it far. People will remember you for how sociable you are, especially if you have something intelligent to say and are funny. Gain contact by attending networking events and other career and non-career events. This is also a good way for some personal branding. Everywhere is a networking opportunity, use it!

3) Irreplaceable you

Its hard to find good quality people that can both do quality work and are consistent. Remain that sparkle in the eye and try to exceed expectations regularly. Not only will you be irreplaceable you will be memorable for a raise or other incentives later on.

Is working from home your thing?

Working from home is a great opportunity for all indviduals. Whether an Entrepreneur, Consultant, Freelancer, etc. Nothing beats working at your own pace on your own time.

Some key elements to staying focused while working from home include:

-Working in a seperate room that is not as comfortable as a bedroom or lounge

-Staying focused on the tasks or to-do lists

-Stay connected to the outside world. You should be accessable for all those who need you by phone, email, or even social networking.

-Get good internet service. Although website dependability varies make sure your internet connection is top notch so you can handle multiple things at once, seamlessly.

-Be happy. As soon as working from home becomes more of a hindrance than happiness you may need to go back to a desk and or re-think career long-term options.

Do's when working from home**

1. Never abuse the opportunity

2. Be available

3. Actually do work

4. Track your hours on task

5. Stay on task

The Job Search

Finding a (good) job online can be somewhat tiresome. It could be even worse if you don't know where to look or how to use keywords in job searches. Lately it has been reported that finding a job online and then actually submitting a resume to a potential employer, is just as bad as not filling out an application or even sending it. 'The Black Hole' is what job searchers are calling it. When you have submitted a resume sometimes it may or may not go through. Don't put all your eggs in one basket. It may take sometime for a Human Resources rep to cipher through the 100+ emails received based on that one position.

Some suggestions for job hunting online: 

Use keywords in job site search engines- this will assist with getting the matches. Properly identifying your keywords can get you to a job you actually want, faster.

Fill out the entire application- if you don't know something call and ask questions. If you absolutely don't know the answer to a question either leave it blank or put N/A. If you get a job interview they may zero in on that so be prepared.

Keep going- although there may be a 'black hole' keep going! You never know who is reading or how fast they are getting to your resume.

Send a cover letter- some employers may not ask for this or it may be an option. Just provide a cover letter with your resume, since it is an option most people would send just the application and resume. You will stick out from the rest.

**Extras: Read CNN's take on the online 'black hole' theory, here.

Start Branding Yourself NOW!!!

The best way to stick out from any crowd is to personally separate yourself and create a BRAND.

What does it mean to create a personal brand?
-Creating a personal brand contains both yourself as well as your career and marketing both together as a brand.

How can I personally brand myself?
-Personal branding is one of the hottest ways to stay both relevent and with a job. You can utilize all social networking sites such as, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and even Blogger. Wherever people are thats where you should be marketing yourself and your specialization.

How long does this take?
-Personal branding is something that is developed by you. Coming up with a contingency plan of action is a sure fire way to get things moving. With sites like Twitter and Facebook you can keep people up-to-date as many times as you like and add folks to your network.

What resources can I look to as far as personal branding?
There are many folks that can assist with your goals in personal branding. You can even do research on their careers to see how they got started. Some key folks paving the way with personal branding are Dan Schawbel and Shadeed Eleazer. These guys have came a long way in their careers because of their consistency in personal branding.

There are several books that can also assist with this process look here for more info.

What is your Vision?

Everyone has a vision or at least something that makes them get out of bed every morning. Often times wondering what is your true purpose or calling can end up being a distraction and can make you more stress than happy.

Outlining your ideas can help maintain your focus. Whether you are 20 years old or 55 years old everyone must have a plan in order to succeed in their goals. Obtaining a degree or even creating a retirement plan with an investor is important. Ultimately NOT having a vision is both critical and detrimental to your future.

Be wise.

Are you FRUSTRATED with the job market??

[Many with or without a job look like this, right now]

Many Americans and even Internationally are feeling the pain and frustration from job searches. Where are the jobs? What will it take to finally get one? How can I maximize my efforts?


Here are a few tips I personally found from my research:


-Begin branding yourself as well as in your proposed field

 -Utilize sources such as Facebook and LinkedIn for job opportunities

-NETWORK (that guy in line in front of you with the two annoying kids could be the VP of General Electric YOU NEVER KNOW!)

-Be outgoing (a closed mouth will not get fed)

-Get more education (whether you get another degree or certificate get your butt out there)

*To gain more insight in maximizing your job search efforts, stop here and go through a number of different methods.

We have arrived!!!

YES! Finally a blog that makes sense. Here we will discuss jobs, careers and lifestyle. Some things may be added into our convo such as travel, leisure, etc. This blog will assist those who are currently looking for a job or career (yes there is a difference). Whether you like it or not this is YOUR forum so input is key. Share your stories, triumphs and tribulations. As I assist you with tips and things that have helped me and some of my friends and family over the years.

Welcome to the Job Ladder!
Ciao!

-Lj