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

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?

 

 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.

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?

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.

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.

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.