By : Robert Half InternationalAs the economy begins to rebound, there may be unique opportunities for you to advance your career, either at your current organization or with a new employer. You don't want these opportunities to pass you by; here are five recommendations for taking advantage of them:1. Be a leaderAs organizations begin to restart projects that were shifted to the back burner during the downturn, they'll need individuals to lead these initiatives. Volunteering for these assignments can be a good way to gain visibility, build new skills and demonstrate your ability to assume more responsibilities.When opportunities arise,
let your manager know about your interest in them. Even if the project in question isn't the right one for you, he or she may have other assignments in mind that are better suited to your abilities. Just be careful not to get in over your head. Volunteering for extra duties when your plate is already full can cause your performance to suffer, and even lead to burnout.2. Ask for trainingThink about how you'd like your career to progress and in which areas you might need to build new skills. For example, if you are an administrative assistant, you might be interested in learning about accounting techniques so you can play a bigger role in managing your department's budget. With economic conditions improving, companies may have more funds to invest in training and professional development opportunities for staff, so be sure to approach your manager first. Make a case for how a particular course, seminar or conference will help you and benefit the company. If few internal opportunities exist, be proactive and seek out training through local educational institutions, professional associations or online providers.3. Find a mentorGetting to the next step can be easier with advice from someone who already knows how to get there. Before identifying a mentor, however, make sure you are clear about what your professional goals are and what you hope to gain from the relationship. These factors will determine whom you tap for assistance. For example, if you hope to earn a promotion, you might look to a manager within your firm who has risen through the ranks. If you're interested in switching careers, you might seek the counsel of a networking contact who moved from IT to sales. Ask friends, family and members of your professional network for recommendations.4. NetworkNetworking an important component of any job search. But even if you're not looking for a position with a different firm, keep in mind that it still pays to grow your network, especially inside your organization. Expanding your base of contacts can help you identify valuable allies and establish connections that make it easier to secure resources and support. And networking can help you move up the career ladder. According to a study by CareerXroads, internal transfers and promotions accounted for an average of 51 percent of all full-time positions filled in 2009. Making sure you are well known throughout the company could increase your chances of securing one of these opportunities.5. Keep up with new trendsThose who are best able to advance their careers have their finger on the pulse of the field so they can identify and take advantage of new trends. Remain apprised of developments in your area of specialization by reading industry publications and online articles and blogs. Also consider joining a professional organization. These groups often feature speakers and other thought leaders who can speak about new developments that emerge as business conditions improve. Your research will also help you keep tabs on areas of job growth -- or contraction -- within your industry so you can determine how much promise your current career path has. Think about both the short term and the long term so you always find yourself in the right place -- ahead of the curve.Job Vacancy , Indonesia Job , Job Indonesia
By : Kate Lorenzin today's ever changing job market, not only have the types of jobs offered changed, but so have the individuals who make up the current workforce. Many older workers are opting to continue working instead of retiring. If you're one of these seasoned professionals, how do you keep your edge and stay fresh and vibrant in today's fast paced employment atmosphere?1. Be trendyFollow job market trends. Older workers must keep their finger on the pulse of the labor force by asking themselves, 'What jobs are in demand today?' and by keeping up with today's technology, particularly computer technology says Deborah Russell, director of the issues agenda for economic security for AARP, a non-profit organization for people age 50 and over.2. Get wiredKnow your computer. Russell stresses that updating general office skills, especially computer skills, is crucial, "particularly since many employers assume that mature workers lack skills in this area. Having the basic computer skills that allow you to function in the workplace is essential." That means being comfortable with:# Navigating the Internet# E-mail and its applications# Word processing# PowerPoint# Excel spreadsheets3. Go back to schoolFill in the gaps with education. If you lack in any area of demand, especially computer skills, remember it's never too late for more education. Many instructional courses are offered at your local community college, library or neighborhood association. "Lifelong learning is an important aspect of professional growth. Assessing your skills and determining whether there are any gaps will help identify potential areas for additional education," Russell says.4. Opportunity knocksTake advantage of chances to learn all around you. Besides attending classes, a good way to gain new skills is to be on the lookout for learning opportunities right at work. Is someone going on vacation whose job is outside your normal realm of responsibilities? Perhaps you can volunteer to cover for them and learn a little about what they do. Or volunteer for temporary assignments that you wouldn't normally handle.5. Update your resumeIf you are looking to make a change to a new position, you need to get current on the latest résumé trends. Like anything else, résumé styles change over time. The résumé is a vital tool in helping any worker articulate the qualifications and experience they can bring to a potential position. Russell says often "employers are more interested in the skills you bring to a job versus how many years you worked for a particular employer. It gives them a snapshot of your capabilities and if you in fact possess the skills they're looking for." So make your résumé skill-driven and results-oriented, showcasing your management skills and sales accomplishments, instead of merely providing a litany of dates, titles and responsibilities from past positions.6. BondTalk to others in your same situation. Don't despair; there are organizations that offer support groups for older workers to discuss the challenges they've faced and learn new strategies to overcome them. The Operation ABLE Network is composed of agencies across the United States that focus on meeting the needs of mid-career workers and job seekers. Check your local phone book for the Operation ABLE chapter in your area. Job Vacancy , Indonesia Job , Job Indonesia
By : Kate LorenzOne of the most common questions from job candidates is “How can I get experience when jobs require experience?” Overcoming this “career catch-22,” however, is within your reach; the key is preparation. Here are some tips to land a job without experience, whether you are a new grad or changing careers. 1. Evaluate yourselfAre you truly ready to search for a job or do you need to spend time catching up on current work trends? Perform a critical and honest personal audit of your style and skills. Think about the type of employee you want to be and list the qualities that come to mind. This list will help you discover any issues that you need to work on prior to your pursuit of a job. Once you have addressed these issues, you will move ahead with your search with more confidence. To employers, confidence translates to readiness for the job. 2. Stay currentThe good news for new grads is that many hiring managers place considerable importance on current learning experiences. Because conditions change and techniques evolve, a recently conferred degree often holds more weight than a degree received years ago. If you have contemporary learning experiences that relate to what the company needs, explain what you have learned and how you can apply that knowledge to their company.The bad news for career-changers is that earning a degree doesn’t mean you get to stop learning! Always read about the current issues in the profession(s) of your choice and have a plan in case your present career choice doesn’t work out. You might even consider taking classes at a local college to learn new methods and technologies. If you keep abreast of modern business practices in your desired field, you will be well-prepared to describe how your experiences will contribute to the success of an employer.3. Do your homeworkAs you should do in any job hunt, research the company and identify the specific requirements for the position in which you are interested. Before you submit your résumé for a job, find out what the company does and how they do it. Once you understand this information, you will be better able to relate and apply your knowledge and experience from school or a different field of work to the needs of the company.4. Find a role modelChoose someone whom you admire at work or school and ask that person for guidance in modeling your chosen professional behaviors. Most people will be pleased and willing to help, as imitation is flattery. Emulate the employee you want to be and be ready to demonstrate these traits in searching for a job.Use this experience as preparation to respond to behavioral questions in the interview process. Employers ask questions such as, “What would you do in these circumstances?” and “What have you done when this type of situation has happened in your workplace?” With prior consideration and the example set by your mentor, your responses will be well-practiced and sharp.5. Donate your timeYes, I am suggesting you work for free. No, I am not suggesting you quit school or your current job to do so. Plenty of companies, nonprofits in particular, are more than happy to accept the free labor of someone without copious amounts of related experience. Are you an accountant hoping to break into advertising? Volunteer a few evenings a week to put together a small campaign for a local charity. Unfortunately, new grads often don’t have an income to support them while they search for a job. Sometimes, it might be beneficial in the long run to take a position short of your dream job while you earn valuable experience in an internship or volunteer position.Don’t forget, the selection process is a place for you to shine. Be ready to explain why you are the best candidate for the job, whether it is a career change or a new business endeavor. You may not have the job experience, but you can still demonstrate to the boss that you are ready to do the work. Be the job candidate the company can’t refuse to hire.Job Vacancy , Indonesia Job , Job Indonesia
By : Rachel ZupekKids are always so anxious to grow up. They want to skip through their adolescence and teenage years, moving straight into adulthood. We see this when our parents beg us to stop trying to grow up so fast. We see it in movies like "Big" and "Freaky Friday," which show kids going from adolescents to adults overnight, or children trading places with their parents.One of the things I remember wanting the most when I was younger was getting a job in "the real world." Nothing seemed cooler than dressing up in a suit and high heels, carrying a briefcase and working in an office of pretty people, with whom I would go out after work to have a cocktail and talk about the day's events. If only someone had told me -- correction -- if only I had listened that real life and the real world aren't that glamorous.Now that I am working in "the real world" I know that living alone, earning my own paycheck and being an adult are empowering, sure. But, looking back, I wish I would have listened to my parents when they told me to enjoy my youth.Presumably, I'm not alone in my wish to turn back the clock and be a kid again. But since that's not likely to happen, the alternative would be to find a way to relive the years of our youth some other way -- in our jobs.If you don't feel like growing up any time soon, here are five jobs that will keep you young at heart:1. Toy testerThink about it: It's like playing for a living. Who can argue with that? Remember Tom Hanks in the movie "Big"? He plays the adult version of a young boy who wishes that he could be -- well, big. He wakes up the next morning to find himself as a 30-year-old man. He ends up landing a job perfect for the 12-year-old soul living inside him: testing children's toys for a major toy company.Salary: $63,999/year*2. Concert venue workerWorking in a concert venue -- whether it's as a security guard, ticket taker or food vendor -- you'll get to see the latest and greatest music acts and hear "what the kids are listening to these days." Plus, some of the greatest artists of all time have been touring around the globe recently including Elton John, U2, AC/DC and Billy Joel. Cavorting with icons from your youth is sure to bring back many a memory.Salary: Various3. Camp counselor/directorDo you have fond memories of going away to summer camp when you were younger? Give other kids the same great memories by working as a camp director or counselor. You can organize fun things for everyone to do -- including you.Salary: $15,263/year4. BartenderI don't know about you, but my hangovers get worse with age. It's always refreshing -- and somewhat depressing -- to listen to college students talk about their nights out, and even more so to watch them do it. Grab a part-time gig as a bartender and give those college revelers your favorite shot -- maybe you can take one with them.Salary: $26,641/year, plus gratuity5. CoachIt's amazing how many of my friends obsess about their "glory days" -- aka, when they could run, kick, punt, pass, dribble, dunk and score without breaking a sweat. You know what they say: if you can't beat 'em; join 'em. If you find yourself a little too stiff to play your favorite sport, find a team to coach and teach all those kids a thing or two.Salary: $49,024/yearJob Vacancy , Indonesia Job , Job Indonesia
By : Angela WaltersFew people are passionate about just one thing. Most have multiple interests, and some can't bear the thought of picking just one or two things on which to focus all their time and energy. It is possible to pursue multiple passions, earn a good living, be productive, and not compromise your quality of life by focusing on these three actions: Prioritizing, Monetizing, and Freeing.You Can Pursue Your Multiple Life’s Passions, but You’ve Got to PrioritizeList all of your passions and then see if you can put them in numerical order according to their importance. For example, if your passions are: reading to children, having fun with family, crochet, volleyball, archaeology, stamp collecting, and cooking, list them according to how important it is to you to spend time on each one. Once the list has been prioritized it might look like this:1. Having Fun with Family2. Cooking3. ArchaeologyJob Vacancy , Indonesia Job , Job Indonesia
By : Robert Half Internationalimagine showing up for a job interview only to discover four or more applicants waiting to speak with the hiring manager at the same time as you. It's a predicament job seekers are more likely to face as companies streamline the recruitment process. Interviewing multiple candidates at once also provides employers the opportunity to observe how individuals behave when under pressure in a group setting.A multiple-person interview may seem more nerve-racking than a one-on-one meeting, but it's a prime opportunity to showcase your strong leadership, communication and teamwork skills. Here are some tips to help you shine:Be ready to strut your stuff.Before any employment interview, list three characteristics associated with the job description and prepare to demonstrate that you possess them during the session. For example, if you're interviewing for an event coordinator position, you might recount a conference you helped organize at the last minute to highlight your exceptional time-management and multitasking abilities.Get the lay of the land.A group interview can involve multiple job candidates, as well as multiple hiring managers. So, once the meeting begins, try to read the different personality types in the room. Don't assume the person who is quietly observing possesses no clout; often, the least talkative person is the ultimate decision maker. You can get a sense of the hierarchy by observing whom your interviewers make eye contact with as they speak; typically, employees will watch for their managers' reactions to what they are saying. Regardless of who appears to be in charge, show equal respect and professionalism to everyone in the room, including other applicants.Assert yourself.If the interview is structured as an open dialogue, make sure your voice is heard -- but never at the expense of interrupting others, which is a sign of poor sportsmanship. If you have something meaningful to say and someone else is speaking, wait your turn. At the same time, avoid dominating the conversation -- another sign of poor team play. Show grace under pressure.Because there are multiple people being interviewed, you may not have much time to formulate your responses to questions posed by an interviewer. If others start chiming in, and you're still considering your answer, resist the urge to immediately insert your thoughts; a poorly phrased answer can do more damage than saying nothing at all.Expect the unexpected. With more than one person vying for the spotlight, don't be surprised if someone makes your point first. If this happens, think of a statement that adds to the conversation; this will show the hiring manager you can listen well and think on your feet.Play up your people skills.During a group interview, a hiring manager may split the group into small teams and assign a hypothetical problem or case for each to resolve. In these situations, the interviewer is likely looking to see who takes charge, how well the person delegates tasks and how the other members react to his or her leadership. The hiring manager might also observe how well individuals improvise, use their reasoning powers to win others over, and give and receive criticism.Up the ante.Interviewers often favor candidates who ask meaningful questions because quizzing a prospective employer shows that applicants are genuinely interested in the organization and have done their research. Posing insightful questions also is an easy way to stand out in a group interview, since some candidates will likely arrive unprepared. To develop thoughtful questions, study the job description and research the company beforehand.Preparing for a group interview is very similar to getting ready for a traditional one-on-one interview. The key to succeeding, however, is acknowledging the other applicants, and then acting strategically to distinguish yourself as the candidate of choice. If you can do this in a professional and polished way, you may be chosen for a follow-up interview or the job itself.
Job Vacancy , Indonesia Job , Job Indonesia
By : Careerbuilder.comNo matter how strong your skills or experience are, you won't land a new job without first securing an interview with a prospective employer. Job seekers often consider this step of the hiring process the most difficult -- and perplexing. After all, how many times have you considered your qualifications ideal for an open position only to never hear from the hiring manager about the resume and cover letter you submitted?If you're looking for an edge, make sure you're not falling into these common traps:You only focus on the Google of the world.Companies that continually grab headlines and are highly recognizable can be exciting places to work. But so are many companies you've never heard of. Keep in mind that organizations that are household names often receive thousands of resumes for each opening. Consider exploring opportunities with small and midsize companies. They make up the vast majority of businesses in the United States and sometimes have trouble locating qualified candidates. If Google is your dream employer, don't give up the good fight, but also keep your eyes and ears open to other opportunities.You don't follow directions.Each company has a different procedure it asks applicants to follow for submitting employment applications. Some ask that you use a form on their websites while others prefer traditional phone calls or faxes. Make sure you understand what the prospective employer seeks by carefully reading the job listing. Then, follow the directions to the letter. If you don't, your application may never reach the hiring manager.You need to revamp your resume.Sending out the same cover letter and résumé to all companies isn't likely to capture the attention of prospective employers. Hiring managers want to know why you're a good match for their specific business needs. So, take the time to research employers and customize your job search materials by explaining why you're interested in a particular position and how you could make a contribution to the company.Your cover letter isn't enticing.Think of your cover letter as an appetizer that convinces the hiring manager your résumé, the main course, is worth sampling. The best cover letters take select details from the résumé and expand upon them, explaining in depth how your talents and experience can benefit the prospective employer.You don't reference keywords.Companies that receive a high volume of résumés often scan applications using specialized software that looks for certain keywords to determine which candidates to call for interviews. More often than not, keywords come directly from the job description. Terms such as "Microsoft Office," "accounts payable and receivable" and "Cisco Certified Network Administrator" are examples. As much as possible, ensure your résumé and cover letter contain keywords.Your application materials aren't perfect.Submitting an application that contains typos and grammatical goofs is perhaps the quickest way to foil your chances of securing an interview. The reason: These types of mistakes show a lack of professionalism and attention to detail. So, make sure to carefully proofread your résumé prior to submitting it and ask a friend or family member to do the same.You don't know who to send your resume to.Though it's fine to start your cover letter with the generic salutation "To Whom It May Concern," hiring managers pay special attention to applications that are addressed directly to them. If the job advertisement doesn't include the hiring manager's name, call the company and speak to the receptionist or a member of the person's department. More often than not, you can obtain the information fairly easily if you're candid about your reason for wanting it.You don't have an 'in' with the company.Using the name of a common contact to make the connection between you and the hiring manager is by far the best way to ensure your cover letter and résumé get optimal attention. So, keep in touch with members of your professional network; you never know who has a contact at the company you hope to work for.You don't follow up. One way to improve the odds a hiring manager gives consideration to your résumé is to follow up with him or her. According to a survey by our company, 86 percent of executives said job seekers should contact a hiring manager within two weeks of sending a résumé and cover letter. Often a brief phone call or e-mail reasserting your interest in the position and strong qualifications is enough.You're not as qualified as you think.The bottom line may be that you're simply not as perfect for the job as you think. Before submitting your résumé, take a close look at the job description and compare your skills and experience with those required for the position. If a job calls for five years of retail management experience, and you have only two, you might not be as qualified as other applicants. While sometimes it's possible to make up for skills gaps if you excel in other areas, hiring managers frequently have specific criteria in mind, and they use it to determine whom they call for interviews.By avoiding common pitfalls, you can improve your chances of landing a job interview. Often something small -- fixing a typo, for example -- makes all the difference.
Job Vacancy , Indonesia Job , Job Indonesia
