Sunday, September 23, 2012

Career Searching - What Is the Difference Between Jobs and Careers?


Career searching is the term I apply to actively pursuing a career position rather than looking for a job.

I can't tell you how many times I would interview someone, and when I would ask what they are looking for in a job, they would reply, "I'm not looking for a job. I'm looking for a career."

And while I can appreciate the intentions of an applicant with this response, I need to stop to tell you how wrong this is - to the recruiter with whom you are speaking, but more importantly, how much this will hinder your job search.

Let me explain the difference:

A job is something a company offers you.
A career is something you build in an industry.

There is no such thing as a career position.

To emphasize this point, here is the definition for "career" according to Webster's dictionary:

a person's progress or general course of action through life or through a phase of life, as in some profession or undertaking

I might describe my career thus far as being a "recruiter," but please understand I am not saying that simply because a company hired me to be a recruiter. In order to satisfy having a career, you need to meet three specific qualifications:

You have spent a significant numbers of years learning a particular industry.
You have specialized skills making you valuable in that industry.
You have a proven track record of success in that particular industry.

Examine those qualifications carefully. These qualifications are determined based on one thing - you! You can choose the career path you want to take, but understand that building a career is the sum total of your own efforts. No company can simply award you a career.

I remember interviewing an entry level applicant several years ago who was presently working for McDonald's. When I asked him why he wanted to leave, he explained that McDonald's was just a job - he wanted a career.

While I understand that this example is the essence of reduction to ridiculous, McDonald's is one of the greatest providers of career opportunities worldwide. You can grow from an entry level role into all different directions including Human Resources, Accounting, Operations & Logistics, Marketing, and more... ! In fact, McDonald's will from time-to-time take exceptional candidates and pay internally for additional training to advance their skill sets. In time, they too may advance in their career of choice - and it is the hope of McDonald's that those skill sets will be applied internally.

Again, I emphasize the importance of understanding that a job is something you can get. A career is something you must build. The reason why this is so important is because millions of people are searching Google every month for a "career" - and I'm sorry to say - you will never find one just by looking. Yes, you may find many companies wanting career-minded individuals, or who may offer career advancement opportunities, but at the end of the day you are applying for a job.

That being said, if you wish to begin building a career in a particular industry, you will need to do three things:

Decide in which industry you would like to develop your career.
Look at what different career paths are available in that industry.
Plan to acquire some specialized training in that industry, whether through formal education, apprenticeship, a mentor program, promote-from-within, etc.

For example, let's say you decide that Business is your industry of choice. Next, you look at available career paths and decide that Marketing is where you are the most interested. The next step would be to look at how you can begin to learn more about marketing, whether that be through an internship or going to college.

Now - and only now - are you ready to begin acquiring some experience in this particular industry. Believe me - you are more than likely going to begin in a very entry Sales level role to really understand Marketing from the ground up. And that is okay. It takes time to build a career.

My first experience in interviewing was a completely unpaid internship. And I spent hours a week interviewing, watching other people interviewing, taking notes on interviewing techniques, reviewing resumes, calling references, etc. The more I could get my feet wet and collect experience, I knew the better prepared I would be to grow in my chosen career - and ultimately the more marketable I would become to other employers within that industry.

So the next time you are thinking of cutting to the front of the line by just looking for a career, think again. You need to look for a job first. Jobs are the only things that companies can offer you. But those jobs, in turn, become stepping stones. They are the vehicle to help you build the career you truly desire.




__
Brent Jones lives in Toronto, Canada and spent the majority of his professional career in recruiting and sales. He currently offers job-seekers advice through his blog.

He is also the author of the successful report '7 Fatal Mistakes Made by Most Job Applicants.' It is available for free download by clicking here.




The Career Pivot


Change is constant, prevalent, inevitable. We experience it in the weather as temperatures vary, in the seasons as spring cycles to winter, and within ourselves as we accumulate experiences. For most of us, these changes or transitions are characteristically familiar. Similarly, we embrace characteristic changes in our careers, expecting a familiar, linear path of advancement within an organization, within the same industry. This typical paradigm describes the traditional career ladder.

However, a paradigm shift has occurred. Change is still constant, prevalent and inevitable, but it is now faster and more pervasive because change is broadening and deepening our ability to connect. The Internet, now a tool rather than a phenomenon, and technology, itself rapidly evolving, enable instant communication. We have global access, so our relationships are expanding and our perspectives of others are broadening.

On this new stage, today's professionals change careers multiple times. These "career pivots" allow people to make agile transitions and follow different, better paths for themselves. Even employers are noticing the advantage of people who can pivot. Reid Hoffman, a cofounder of LinkedIn® who has pivoted often in his career, asserts, "Markets are rapidly changing. Everyone will have to change and adapt. Because markets are changing, companies need help in adapting; this affects how you develop your skill set, which is not a typical "career ladder." (1)

What defines the career pivot and what is its value as a framing strategy in directing your career? How do you manage your achievements so as to translate them into the currency of transferable assets? What are the opportunities and benefits for both the career changer and the new employer? Let's take a look...

What is a pivot?

A pivot is a shift in direction. In sports, such as basketball or martial arts, a pivot takes place with one foot rooted in place as the other foot moves into a different space. The pivot cannot be executed unless the planted foot provides stability. Think of the anchor foot as your foundation of values, accumulated experiences and achievements, which provides balance and strength as your other foot moves into a new area. Both work in concert to achieve change, as well as stability. When you pivot in your career, you are not throwing away what you have accrued in skills and experiences; rather, these are the underpinnings that help you shift in a new direction.

Why pivot?

Because many motivators drive a shift in direction, this requires that you accept an element of uncertainty in your career. Some professionals are unhappy and need to try something new, some become unemployed, some want to build upon a strength or improve a weakness, and for some, life intervenes or dreams change. Others purposefully apply their own formulas to career changes so that they are constantly evolving. In this last instance, pivots serve as a framing strategy to direct their careers and to refresh how they market themselves. With this approach, you can evaluate your assets and highlight how they benefit the particular needs of a potential new employer.

In addition, career pivots offer:

P = possibilities

I = interactions

V = value

O = opportunity

T = transferable assets

S = satisfaction

Possibilities

The term "pivot" is commonly used in start-up tech companies when they implement revisions or adjust what they do in response to changing market conditions. Rather than stubbornly stick to one idea that might not be successful, a company will pivot to a new idea. As the career changer, a pivot puts you on a new path with a new way of thinking. It often means venturing into something unknown, unfamiliar and uncomfortable. In both cases, a pivot is not starting over; it is using what you have in new ways. A pivot opens you up to new possibilities.

In the music industry, we see many instances of artists shifting to embrace new possibilities. Madonna, Beyoncé©, and Lady Gaga change styles and often portray new personalities as they market themselves in fresh, new ways.

Interactions

Other musicians pivot to broaden interactions, inviting novel perspectives and connections. Prominent R & B artist Lionel Richie recently moved outside his genre to collaborate with well-known country stars on his latest album. Innovative partnerships help artists stay current and engage with new fans.

Value

As the examples above illustrate, pivots continually create new value for you and others when you leverage your growing skill sets and accumulated experiences. As you become more comfortable with change, uncertainty, new connections, and your evolving surroundings, you become nimble at addressing shifting market conditions. Nimble athletes are quick and light in movement. Similarly, nimble career pivoters are quick to comprehend and adapt with ease in new situations.

Opportunity

The new circumstances, interactions and challenges encountered during a pivot provide opportunities to increase your awareness of others' perspectives, as well as showcase your flexibility and openness to innovation. In addition, as you effectively face stressors and recover quickly, you demonstrate your resilience as you persist toward your vision. In this way, Reid Hoffman has built upon and transported his experiences to build new opportunities as he has pivoted from social networking to PayPal™ to LinkedIn.

Transferable Assets

Transferable assets are the qualities, experiences and skills that you have accumulated and nurtured in one situation that can easily transfer and apply to a new situation.(2) What you have achieved in one situation now becomes an asset of value in another.

As an example, John Grisham's observations and experiences as a lawyer and a politician have translated into a successful career as a storyteller and novelist. Other examples include the experience of performing multiple tasks simultaneously that develops into a transferable asset of effective prioritization, or working with many people on a project that cultivates the transferable asset of collaboration.

To determine and communicate your own transferable assets, try the following exercises:

How to Determine Your Transferable Assets (2)


List five things that make you great at your job.
Now, one by one, ask yourself, "What makes me good at that?" Try to come up with at least two reasons for each.
Then, for each of the reasons you listed in the previous step, again, ask yourself, "What makes me good at that?" and you will develop your list of transferable assets.
Next, do this for your top five to 15 accomplishments.

Re-write Yourself (3)

Once you have determined your transferable assets, look at how these can be applied to another job, career or industry. For potential new employers, translate what you have done into what they are looking for. Captivate them with your story.


Ask yourself the following questions: What motivated me to make this change? How did I arrive on this particular path? What is the logic behind my choices?
Consider your audience: As with your resume, tailor and adapt your story to who they are and what they want; give them a reason to care.
Mine your experiences: Determine your most significant professional and personal achievements and detail how they have shaped your unique path toward the goals that you and your audience share.
Highlight your trends: Be sure to call attention to the specific decisions you made that allowed you to expand your learning, as well as any positive patterns that have emerged over the course of your career.
Articulate: Combine these components to tell the story of your career changes in a way that conveys how your choices define your unique abilities and how this particularly benefits your audience.

How to Facilitate a Career Pivot


Track mobility: How do people move around in an industry as they progress in their careers? What is the point of entry? What barriers are there with regard to education and certification?
Note landmarks: Who are the big players and the small upstarts? Accumulate facts about the competitors, which can be achieved easily through an online search.
Locate guides: Find people who know the ropes and workings of the industry and who are willing to share their wisdom and insight (i.e., contextual industry information). LinkedIn and informational interviewing are helpful tools.

Satisfaction

A final advantage of the career pivot strategy is the satisfaction you experience by enjoying a new adventure, thriving on a new challenge, pursuing your passions or resolving feelings of stagnation. Ultimately, the value of a pivot is that you manage your achievements, you direct your career track, and you determine what success and happiness looks like for you. Create your own unique path to attain your goals. What is your strategy?

Sources

(1) Hoffman, Reid. "Entrepreneurship Rules of Thumb." Lecture. Endeavor Entrepreneur Summit, Stanford University

(2) Rapple, Rebecca. "Identifying Your Transferable Skills." Weblog post. The Resume Revolution

(3) Rapple, Rebecca. "Personal Branding Your Way Through A Career Pivot." Weblog post. Personal Branding Blog




Author Bio: Jody Michael, MCC -- Jody Michael holds the prestigious, top-level designation of Master Certified Coach (MCC), a distinction held by less than 1% of certified coaches. In addition, she is a Board Certified Coach (BCC) and a University-of-Chicago-trained psychotherapist, effective at helping clients mitigate the anxiety and depression that often accompanies career change. She has personally conducted over 30,000 one-on-one sessions and is passionate about the personal success of each client.

Ms. Michael possesses the rare combination of theoretical knowledge, extensive coaching and corporate experience. She has consulted and coached in a wide range of corporations, from Fortune 10 to small business, and has worked with many market leaders including Abbott, Accenture, Avnet, BP, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Deloitte, Dial Corporation, Forsythe, Mayer Brown, Sara Lee and Stepan Company.

To learn more about Jody and her company, please visit Jody Michael Associates To read more career articles, visit CertifiedCareerCoaches.com




Get To Explore Several Careers With The Help Of Career Clusters


Deciding what career to follow must be the hardest thing for any student. This difficulty is brought about by the lack of information on the available careers. With incomplete information on a career, you cannot be able to make a wise decision. There are a lot of careers available to students and the problem only arises in choosing which one to follow. When choosing a career many factors come into play and for you to make a decision that you will not regret in future, you need to do enough research on the available careers. Traditionally, this was a challenge. Today, this is no longer a big challenge due to the development of career clusters, frameworks that tries to link the education system to the employment environment.

In the beginning, career clusters were prepared by stakeholders in the education and employment industries, but today, some great entrepreneurs have emerged, who are a earning a living by preparing these clusters. The clusters are available in many formats. Some are available in form of DVDs, handbooks, blog posts, while others in form of seminars. All of them serve the same purpose, but via different means. Most of these clusters are highly accessible as you can assess it from the internet. The DVDs and the e-books are downloadable from the internet. Access increases the effectiveness of this important educational material.

A good career cluster should be comprehensive, but easy-to-follow for students as well. A comprehensive career cluster is one that incorporates aspects of the education system and shows how they are related to the career of choice. Good career clusters will also have job readiness skills for students. Job readiness skill means it will give you information of what is expected of you in a particular job that falls in your career of choice. Most of this information is delivered in an easy-to-understand format in simple English that is understandable to people of all levels of education.

Career clusters are not only important to students, but they are also equally important to teachers and the authorities, who prepare the syllabus and curriculum. They need to understand all the careers to be able to prepare curricula that falls within the broad clusters. Once they have understood the clusters and prepared the syllabus, they can now go ahead and advice students on the best careers to follow based on their courses of specialization. These clusters also need to be understood by inspirational and career speakers, who visit students in schools and give them inspirational career talks.

Your career is your life. You need to choose a career you will enjoy forever. You do not want to be tired the rest of your life by doing something that you won't enjoy. For this reason, make sure you get access to the clusters, understand them and choose a career you are good at and one that you will enjoy doing. You can buy the clusters online saving you all the travelling and searching costs that are associated with physical shopping.




If you are serious about achieving a successful career, you should definitely get career clusters. Find out about several easy-to-use career clusters on DVD-ROM and use the guidance for building up a great career.




Portrait of a Portfolio Career: An Answer to the Perfect Job?


Do you cringe when you look at your resume through the eyes of a prospective employer, afraid the wide range of jobs listed will disqualify you? Or have you put together a single-track career record but secretly long for more variety, more outlets for your varied interests and abilities?

If so, perhaps you’re the perfect candidate to welcome a new identity: a portfolio

careerist.

While describing her new business over lunch the other day, Christine included

some details of the career journey that brought her to it. Starting out doing debt

consolidation for friends while tending her young children, she was catapulted into

full-time work in Human Resources following a divorce. Moving from one corporate

HR division to another, she specialized in employee benefits and severance

packages. In recent years, tired of long hours and wanting more independence, she

has moved into financial planning as an affiliate of a large financial network. While

she is thriving in this new challenge, she did admit, with a smile somewhere

between embarrassed and shy, that she had a “side business” as a personal color

consultant. “I have too many interests to expect one job to make me happy. I’ve

always had something going on the side!”

Her allusion to non-monogamy was telling, probably accounting for the moment of

slight embarrassment. Many of us are still laboring under the outmoded belief that

we should make a career choice early in life and follow it faithfully in a more or less

straight line.

In fact, there are many persuasive arguments for portfolio careers becoming a wave

of the future. The realities of the current employment environment, suggest that

identifying yourself as the CEO of your career gives you a head start for pro-actively

designing it. The entrepreneurial mindset is valued among companies looking to

shift responsibility for career management onto you, and prepares you to make

foresighted adjustments to changes in in-house and market conditions.

Research studies indicate there’s a high level of satisfaction among people who

voluntarily leave employment and become independent. As high as 65% of

executives surveyed in a British study are “very satisfied” with the increased

freedom, control and variety they’re able to create in their composite careers.

Portfolio careers may be a model particularly well-suited to women’s lives. Women

have always been good at doing more than one thing at a time. As companies’

family-friendly policies are diminishing, putting together a multi-strand career may

provide the needed flexibility to tend to a family’s changing needs or a spouse’s job

requirements. Designing a personal career portfolio gives women a way of working

that fits our lives, rather than requiring our lives to adapt to our work.

An initial reaction to the idea of abandoning the search for a “single strand” career

and focusing instead on creating multiple strands may be to worry about the lack of

security: no single paycheck to rely on, no predictable schedule or set of

expectations, no one to report to for direction. The tough truth is that this security

is becoming more and more of a myth in the contemporary workplace, as hiring is

done project by project rather than for the long haul. Here are several options for

addressing the issue of security:

*Develop a skill set that’s in demand or suited to a growing industry. An example

might be technical writing in biotech.

*Actively nurture your network: keeping in touch with your contacts about new

developments in your skills or interests, as well as finding opportunities to be of

assistance to them. (Remember that being of service is very likely to activate a

desire to reciprocate!)

*Add to the numbers of people who know about you and your expertise by

developing some speaking or writing topics.

What does a portfolio career actually look like? It has several parts, bound together

by a common thread (you), that’s adaptable to many different circumstances. It can

be a combination of traditional employment, contract work, and self employment

(e.g. a home-based business). The format can be to work simultaneously on

various projects or simultaneously with several clients or with single clients in

succession. Sometimes the strands of your portfolio even rotate seasonally: a

garden design business in the summer, and technical writing in the winter. The

possibilities are infinite, open to you to craft for yourself.

In addition to offering variety and flexibility, the portfolio career model can place

value on those endeavors that don’t (or don’t yet) generate income - service or pro

bono work, for instance, or creative projects. Most importantly, the term “portfolio

career” gives legitimacy to those enterprising folks who have diverse interests and

talents and insist on expressing them, in spite of having to buck reputations as

“jack of all trades, master of none”. People have embraced the “portfolio career”

label with emotional relief, finding in it a term for the unifying and meaningful

guiding force behind all their activities.

So how do you go about creating a portfolio career? Here are some guidelines.

• look at your work history: What is the common thread (or threads)

connecting the work you’ve enjoyed most and done well at? Perhaps it’s money: making it, managing it, building healthy attitudes about it.

• deconstruct the work you’ve done into tasks and list all the skills involved in

those tasks. Don’t overlook the “people skills” like listening, motivating, team

building, etc. Think of new settings where those skills are of value and/or get

compensated.

• What are the hobbies or side interests that are or could become income

generators?

• Plan a brainstorming session with a friend to come up with a number of revenue

streams, and then mindmap them. (For mindmapping guidance:

[http://www.thinksmart.com/mission/workout/mindmapping_intro.html])

• What are the natural rhythms of your life that might suggest some directions?

(E.g. a client of mine got an ESL teaching certificate so she could spend cold mid-

Western winters in a tropical Latin climate.)

• If you’re considering multiple concurrent projects, make at least one of them a “no

brainer”, something easy or very familiar.

And, like any good idea, there are some cautions. Portfolio careers probably aren’t

for everyone. How do you know if it might work for you? Here are some questions

to think about.

• Do I have a personality suited to a portfolio career (adaptable, risk tolerant, self-

starting, enjoy variety/complexity)?

• Am I good at improvising when I’m not fully prepared?

• How do I handle financial insecurity?

• Am I willing to adjust my standard of living if necessary?

• How will I provide for health coverage and vacations?

• How well do I structure and manage my time?

Like the man who looks under the lamppost for his keys, rather than looking where

he dropped them, maybe the perfect job has eluded you because you haven’t known

where to look. Try on the idea of a portfolio career and see if it frees you to

consider new possibilities, a new approach to creating work that fits you and fits

your life.




Nina Ham, certified coach and licensed psychotherapist, has created Success and Me: A Game of Self Discovery™. The Game™ is a facilitated group process, lively and down-to-earth, that guides players in creating personal success visions to serve as a compass for navigating life’s complexities and challenges. To learn more, go to http://www.SuccessandMeGame.com or subscribe to her free e-zine containing articles and tips on creating sustainable success in career or business, http://www.SuccessfromtheInsideOut.com/library.html




Understanding Career Clusters for a Better Future


Most of the states in the United States have a provision and set guidelines for all students. It is mandatory for all children to be educated; this is because education is highly necessary for empowerment. That is why for children living in the states, the federal government has provided some guidelines to help all students. By setting definable strategies, these clusters help under-graduates to find a suitable career path, and make the right choice. It is paramount to understand the intricacies of career clusters.

These guidelines are known as career clusters and are very important to each and every student in the lower and upper level of the education system; that is from first grade to the twelfth grade. However, the importance of clusters is mostly set for the upper level students, since they have a better understanding as young adults on what they would wish to do in future, as grown up adults. That is why the clusters are enforced and put into place; to guide and direct these young adults as to the main areas and scopes of career and how one can achieve that.

A career cluster helps and informs these young adults as to the main and different types of career paths, what these careers require and what they must take as a study path in college, so as to attain their goals in life. A career cluster consists of 16 clusters that are categorized and set forth by the US government and several other educations and career related bodies.It was created to make sure that students transit smoothly from high school to tertiary education with a set mind and goal as to the studies they would follow. This way, they get empowerment in the career fields they choose in the clusters.

There are different career paths set in them and has incorporated many different career jobs in the different sub categorized clusters. This is to mean that nearly all career options are set in a certain cluster, meaning the jobs in a cluster are more related to each other and have their own differences in execution and working. That is why with the clusters, once a student chooses a certain career cluster; he / she will have to make sure to choose a fitting career path, which he / she would love to go for, so that he / she can get to know the right study path to attend, in order to get to that career field.

The integration of the career clusters in the US education system back in the mid 90s, provided for students a chance to set a goal and an objective as to the career they would love to go for. Offering them the paths and spheres to attend and go for to get to that profession. This way, the system has ensured to nurture and build a higher probability of accomplishment in school and work by most of the students who have already gone through the system. The end product of this is a competent and able working force once done with school.

A pathway level, in the career clusters, sets forth the standard and needs required to get through to a certain career field, setting the detailed proficiency and knowledge, academic and technical needs required, to pursue the field one wants to go for as a career. This way, the student can gauge whether they are fit or able to go to the specific career field and if so, what requirements they have to attain to find a space in the career field.




career clusters
A great tool for teachers, counselors, and parents in helping students identify their interests and goals for the future. Use in guidance offices, career labs, libraries, and as a great enhancement to any state career information system.
Click here for 16 career clusters




Saturday, September 22, 2012

Why Investing in Your Career Development Is a Wise Move


These days, not investing on your professional development is like travelling to a foreign land without a map. Things may be good for a little while, but at some point you'll realise that something is not working your way.

You must avoid making deadly career mistakes by investing your time and effort in improving your career management skills so you can take on any career situation no matter how difficult it may be. Here are more reasons why investing in your career is a wise move.

1. Think of long term professional investment. Investing in your career will result in greater opportunities you never imagined possible. Investing in your career would also protect you from unemployment. Believe me, the ROI (return of investment) in career investment is great!

2. You increase your marketability when you invest in your professional development. As you invest in career management, your skills, knowledge, and personal network will also increase. In short, your career net worth will increase through wise career investment.

3. You discover talents, skills and interests you never had before. Work-related training allow you to discover new talents and skills which can be useful in performing your job and even qualify you for promotion. Discovering your potential is possible by investing in your career.

4. Your goals are within your reach through career investment. Do you want to someday become a leader within your organisation? Investing in improving your career management will practically increase your chances of achieving your personal and professional goals.

5. Managers won't notice a mediocre performer. If you've been eyeing a promotion for quite some time now, you better get on your feet and do something to be noticed. The best way to do this? Invest in your professional development! You have to be a top performer if you want to be promoted and engaging in career development activities will help you transform from being considered a mediocre worker to a top performer

There are thousands of reasons to invest in your career so start now! Get a career coach, use self assessment tools, learn effective career planning and take up additional courses to improve your career opportunities. Look for a career coach who offers the best career tools, training and assistance to allow you to find your value, improve your skills and secure your future. Investing in your career is the best personal development move you can do today.




http://ClarityCareerManagement.com.au Jenni Proctor is a career strategist and coach. Clarity Career Management offers career management services to individuals, business and Educational Leaders. Visit us today to request our 7 day Refresh Your Career video series.

Clarity Career Management uses the Core Values Index as a cost-effective, accurate and reliable tool to assess an individual's core values. Contact Clarity Career Management now to know more about the Core Values Index.




Rich Career, Poor Career


What makes for a rich career? It is more than just the

salary and benefits. A rich career is one that suits your

talents and provides an opportunity to make a meaningful

contribution, as well as one that provides the right

compensation.

A rich career is one that has a rich return on investment.

What is career ROI? It is more than a paycheck and

healthcare benefits. Your career ROI is the entire package

of what you receive in return for the investment of your

energy, time, and talent in a career and an organization.

Career ROI can include monetary compensation and the

typical benefits package. It can also include less

tangible, indirect benefits, such as the opportunity to

be involved in a professional association, credibility,

status, and the reputation of the organization you work

for - just to name a few. Career ROI is also unique to

you: what you consider a return on your investment may

not be important to the person who works across the hall

or across the country.

To determine your own unique career ROI, identify what

you receive from your current career, in addition to

your salary and other standard benefits. Once you have

determined your current career ROI, think about the

elements that would make up the ideal career ROI for

you. Think outside the standard HR benefits package.

Now that you know both your current ROI and your desired

ROI, compare the two. How large is the gap?

If your current ROI does not add up, does it mean that

you need to look for a new job or career? Not necessarily.

Once you identify the elements of your ideal ROI, one

option is to approach your current organization about

making some changes.

Not all ROI changes require your employer to invest money

to implement. For example, perhaps your ideal return on

investment includes the opportunity to volunteer a few

days a month for a nonprofit organization in the community

that you are passionate about. Unless you are in a

position where your employer would need to pay someone

else to do your job during those days, this benefit

would not result in a significant cost. In fact, it could

bring value back to your employer, by enhancing its image

in the community. If your employer is not willing or able

to make changes to meet your desired ROI, you may decide

it is time to start looking for a new opportunity.

Before you go searching for a bigger paycheck, take time

to identify your career ROI. Then, if you decide it is

time to look for a new job, you will know when you find

the right opportunity for you.




Shannon Bradford is a writer and coach, teaching people how to master their brains to succeed in their careers and businesses. She is the author of Brain Power (John Wiley & Sons, 2002). Sign up for Shannon's free Career Minicourse at http://www.15minutecareer.com




Reinventing Yourself for Multiple Careers


In many countries around the globe, people are born into their station in life and hence their professions. It is unnecessary for them to plan a career as they are expected to perform one specific job their entire lives. These cultures do not consider personal growth or the possibility of choosing one's profession.

America, on the other hand, was built on self-reinvention, and today's economy demands it. Those born before 1946 are less likely to have changed careers or even worked for more than one employer during their lifetimes.

Today, many employees outlive the lifespan of the companies they work for, and the average worker can now expect to have at least three or more careers, with up to six different positions within each of those careers.

Hardly a week goes by without hearing of corporate takeovers, mergers and corporate downsizing. As a result, thousands of seasoned employees are facing burnout from increased responsibilities or being laid-off and replaced with younger, lower-paid employees. Many are looking for a different means of earning a livelihood.

For the first time in history, employees must learn to manage themselves and take responsibility for their own employment. Even the word "career" is taking on new meaning, as a new generation of employees is moving in and out of multiple careers during their lifetimes.

Keep in mind that a career change is not the same as job advancement within a specific career. Most are either lateral or a step down in income until you gain experience and expertise in your new career. Be prepared to downsize your lifestyle.

Think of choosing a new career as an opportunity to bring a fresh outlook and revitalization to your life, as new experiences will stimulate your thought processes.

The most importance part of selecting a new career is also the most obvious, . . . deciding on what you want to do. Often this is a natural offshoot of a previous occupation(s). Reinventing yourself often involves a unique merging of your old talents with your new skill set.

Begin by making an honest assessment of your skills, interests and experiences and ask yourself:

- What would I do if money were no object?

- What did I love to do as a child?

- What activity do I do so intently that I don't notice time passing?

- What do I feel passionately about?

- What do I value the most?

- What are my strengths?

- What are my transferable skills?

- What kind and how much education will I need to make this change?

Most people find fulfillment by doing what they're good at. By evaluating your skills, interests, strengths and desires you will be able to see a connection between what it is that you value and what you excel at. These are the building blocks that you can turn into a new career.

While your new career is still in the planning stages, you can gain valuable information by:

- Attending professional meetings and informal gatherings.

- Networking.

- Joining an online career discussion group.

- Asking questions.

You are likely to need some additional education in order to begin a successful new career, start by improving the skills you already have. Sometimes, learning a few new software programs is simply all it will require. Should you choose to return to college, learning new skills is much easier when you are motivated to begin a new life.

Once you have chosen the kind of work you wish to pursue and acquired the necessary education, be sure to edit your resume to reflect your strengths and skills in this area.

Don't be surprised if your job search lasts a little longer than usual. Concentrate on companies that are seeking people with your reworked skill set and eventually you'll find an employer who will value the knowledge and experience you gained from your previous career(s).

It is vital today, more than ever, to remain versatile to stay employed. A successful career will evolve over a lifetime if you are continuously open to new possibilities. You must constantly seek opportunities for self-improvement and professional growth in order to be prepared for your next reinvention.




Mary Carroll at the beginning her fourth career. Hers career has progressed from photojournalist to catalog graphic designer to photo stylist. Mary is currently employed at Video Professor, the leader in self-paced software learning tutorials [http://www.videoprofessor.com/products/videoprofessorproducts.html] as a customer advocate.




Change Careers? Why Not?


Changing careers? Thinking about it? If not, why not? If you're not happy where you are, then changing your career may be a wonderful move. However, change is a scary concept and shifting careers can be downright terrifying to consider. Relax, it doesn't have to be.

Are you happy where you are? If so, congratulations, best wishes, stay there. Change for change's sake is just silly. However, if you feel confined, know that you'll never go anywhere on the corporate ladder or are just plain unhappy, then investing in your future by switching careers is an excellent idea.

Careers are something many of us choose for the wrong reasons. We decide what to do with our lives based on what our parents do, what our friends decide to do, or what makes more money than what we really love. Worse yet, some careers start from jobs we fall into and end up stuck in. You're not stuck, you can change!

The easiest - and hardest - thing to do is decide what career you want to pursue. Switching careers without a clear vision of what you want to gain from the change is an effort in futility. So, sit down and think about what you like to do outside of work. Not everyone can make a hobby into a paying job, but why not think about it? Maybe you'll find a way.

For example, if you enjoy coaching children, perhaps you could change careers and become a teacher. If you have a strong sense of justice, perhaps being a police officer or a judge is something to consider. Shifting careers doesn't have to be difficult or noble. Do you like being outdoors? How about starting your own lawn service?

Once you've narrowed down the field of careers to just one or two, start researching them. If you know someone who is in the field you're considering, ask them about the pros and cons. Find out what they really do in the course of a day, which may not be what you think. Look at all aspects of a career, not just pay. Consider the work environment and the stress levels, the hours and the potential for advancement.

Now you've decided on the career you want out of the huge number of careers available. Do you need extra education? Specialized training? Or can you just start the new job? Can you afford to leave the old job without all your financial ducks in a row?

This is the time to figure out the nuts and bolts of the changing careers thing. If you want a job that requires additional education or training, how will you get it? There are many schools offering online degrees now. This may fit into your schedule and your needs. Perhaps just doing some research on the internet at a site or checking books out of the library will be all you need to get started.

Now you're all set to change careers, yes? Feet a little cold at the thought of leaving the familiar? That's normal. Change is scary, especially when it can affect your financial wellbeing. There is no good way to get over the hesitation you'll feel at switching careers except to just do it. Make the change. Once you've jumped into the process, you'll become more comfortable and will probably end up wondering why you ever worried about changing careers.

So, if you've thought the careers process through, and are ready to start on your new path, then go ahead and take that first step. And have fun with it!




Whether your looking to change careers or just enhance the one you've got, check out Molly Money Bags, a great sources of information on all things dealing with careers.




Your Own Personal Fulfilling Career Is Available


There are many types of professional career opportunities to pursue in the current employment environment. Many of the sophisticated ones either evolved from less sophisticated ones or were created because it was believed they would suit the current needs of society as other previously valued professional or non-professional careers became obsolete. New careers that were created in the system reflected what was believed necessary to support, maintain and develop a new and emerging infrastructure and assumed needs of the society. Particular beliefs about what would assist the economy influenced the creation and development of these new and different professional career positions that may not have reflected the values of those who were entering those areas of employment. This may be the reason why so many people are dissatisfied with employment and why some do not know why.

Many people have chosen careers based on what they know is available, not on what they know is possible; thus, they have missed out on the opportunity to invent and create their own personally fulfilling career and income stream. This has led some to feel helpless and hopeless around finding and/or creating a personally satisfying career. Their decision may have been made because they listened to the subtle pressures from society about making early career choices without determining if that career choice is one that would be meaningful. Choosing a meaningful profession may not have been a consideration.

Many people also choose a career because it fits society's definition of what is considered normal or of high status. Also, many individuals have chosen careers based on what they believed to be the best choice only to discover much dissatisfaction in their career. Although they may have done extensive research on their career before-hand and completed training in their field, they may not have pursued a career that spoke to their heart. Maybe they thought what they felt passionate about did not translate into a career. Feeling passionate about a career may have played second fiddle in their career choice because they bought into the notion that ones passion and ones work are incompatible. Even people who have chosen intellectually satisfying careers may not be fulfilled spiritually and may find themselves discontent on some level.

Sometimes it is assumed that a person's capacity to excel at and be talented in their profession coincides with an interest in it as well. Doing well at ones job is not synonymous with enjoying it, nor is it the reason why some people enjoy their jobs even when they are talented at it. A person could be talented at their particular professional position but find themselves disconnected from it spiritually. Numerous compliments and many accolades for top and outstanding performance on the job will not automatically translate into a liking for ones job even if a person demonstrates excellence.

There are other reasons people choose to do well at their jobs, including motivations such as wanting a pay raise, approval from their peers, high social status (as mentioned before), and recognition that might have been minimal earlier on in life. All of these psychological motivators that lead to external rewards from peers and bosses may be difficult to experience in many non-work related environments.

Not all people are dissatisfied with their jobs, employment and careers. Some people stay employed in the same job for years, not just out of necessity but for the shear enjoyment. We all know at least one person who speaks highly of their work. They may frequently say how time flies during a regular working day or that their job is not work--as if work is synonymous with and has come to mean drudgery that weakens us rather than uplifts our spirit. These people are inspiring role models for those who are disenchanted and dissatisfied with work. They are catalysts for the unhappy worker in search of something satisfying, and a spring board for others to invent a career for themselves if none exists within the current employment market.

Enjoying ones job means connecting to the intrinsic nature of the work itself. If a job resonates with an individual, their best traits and self will shine, and work will become an extension of themselves that lifts them up rather than weighs them down.

To make a change in profession, one must first acknowledge the dissatisfaction and realize that change is possible. Learning to listen to your heart will lead you to the answers you seek and lead you toward a personal fulfilling career choice. This may not be easy for some, especially if they are no longer aware of how much their heart has been suffocating for years feeling the weight of misery in relationship to their work. Avoiding career dissatisfaction is best achieved by beginning the inward process earlier on in life.

Many successful happy people who have invented and created a whole new career for themselves within the system or outside of it have listened to their own heart as their guide, and in doing so have made incredible contributions to society. For entrepreneurial inventor types, for example, it may have required ignoring negative and unsupportive comments of others who suggested their venture was doomed to fail. For those who left their job positions to be trained in something new and different, it may have required stepping outside of their comfort zone to conquer one of their greatest challenges ever; that is, by leaving an unsatisfying long-time career to temporarily risk financial loss in order to pursue of a more satisfying career. For either of the two, the greatest reward of all was in making the first step towards by venturing into a new territory with hope on the horizon and joy and excitement in their heart.

© 2012 Linda C Davies







Career Success: Take Charge of Your Career


People react very differently to the waves of change that suddenly flood the work and marketplace. Some, who feel confused or unsettled struggle to keep their heads above water gasping for air. By contrast, others, who may not even like or agree with the changes, nevertheless accept them, get on with their lives and swim forcefully to their new destination. The following three tactics will help you mobilize your resources to take charge of their careers.

Fuel the Fire In Your Heart.

Live your life and career with intention. The key to sustained peak performance is discovering who you are, what you want in life, and then confidently pursue it. Remember, if you don't have your own mission or purpose get one, or otherwise, all you can do is sign up for someone else's. Remember, if you don't know where you're going, how will you know that you've arrived?

Start by develop a career line. Prepare a graph that outlines your career highs and lows from your first job to the present. What kinds of activities were you involved in during your highs - during your lows? Continue this getting to know yourself process by locating your inner energy source. What really gets the juices flowing for you? Is it challenge? Helping other? Being creative? Having authority? Making an impact? Whatever motivates you, write it on a card and look at it every morning.

During times of change and uncertainty, you must realize that it's often your outlook or your attitudes--- what you bring to work, not what work brings to you---that determines your career success. Can you look at what's happening in the workplace and not take it personally? Can you accept the luck of the draw and move on? Can you bounce back on your own rather than allow yourself to wallow in negative emotions? You must learn to accommodate adversity. It can either break or build character. Which is it doing for you?

Forget Being the Lone Ranger.

Are you familiar with the saying: "It's not what you know, .but who you know." Well in today's changing work world, the new saying is: "It's not only what you know, it's not only who you know, but, as important, it's who knows you and your work."

First thing to do is to inventory your network. List all the key people in your career world. Are your contacts mostly within your area? Or are there linkages into different departments, divisions, subsidiaries? What about outside your company? What kinds of relationships do you have? Hi and Good by? Or Hi! What have you been doing? Develop relationships with a whole array of people. It's your ticket to career advancement and success.

Know and be known. Work groups or teams, not hierarchies, are now doing the real work in today's workplace. How are you going to find out about the latest hot project? How are key people going to know about you and your talents? An active network is the most effective tool fin this age of uncertainty. Realize that contacts are the bread of career life. In times of change, information and relationships are a source of power.

Don't Just Stand There, Do Something.

Recognize a successful career in not a spectator sport. Opportunities do not just get placed on your desk. Organizations will no longer provide you with clearly defined career paths. Don't be an absentee landlord and neglect your personal career management. Know what you want and actively seek it out. Take charge of your career. Remember, if you don't control your own destiny, no one else will.

Start by doing a career check up. Ask yourself: "Where am I? Where do I want to go? What are some paths to get me there? What are possible barriers? What are my supports? What resources am I going to need? How will I get these resources?" Failure to take charge of your career leaves you a victim of your own neglect and the changing workplace.

Always have several options in your back pocket. Focus on career contingency planning. Do you have a Plan A, a Plan B, and even a Plan C? What conditions could possibly change in your job; your company; or your industry? Do you have a clear idea where you could jump if unexpected roadblocks arise? Where else can you apply your skills and showcase your talents? A successful career is not fixed in stone, but is fluid and subject to change.

Remember, the Name of the Game Is Action.

Make sure your career goals are not stranded on a island called: "Someday I'll..........." If you want something, don't just think or talk about it. Figure out a way to make it happen. Set specific goals. Develop action plans. Have realistic timetables. Find the resources you need. Keep alive in today's rough seas and begin preparing for tomorrow's raging waters.




Marcia Zidle, a business and leadership development expert, works with entrepreneurial organizations who want to be a dominant player in competing for customers, clients, funding or community awareness.

In the Wizard of Oz, Dorothy say, ?Toto, I have a feeling we?re not in Kansas anymore?. Well business, government and community leaders, Marcia says, ?It?s no longer business as usual anymore; its business that has to better than usual.?

Do you want to be better than usual? Then subscribe to Making Waves! a free monthly e-newsletter with quick lessons on better, faster, smarter ways to lead. Sign up now at http://www.LeadersAtAllLevels.com and get a 35 page bonus e-book: Make Bold Change! 101 Ways to Stomp Out Business As Usual. Or contact Marcia directly at 800-971-7619.




Career Change Resume: How to Get Noticed!


Career change after you've worked in a career for a number of years requires you to draft a resume that will help you make the career change. In normal circumstances writing a strong resume is a difficult task but to write an effective resume to help accomplish a career switch is a task that requires some creativity to assure the new employer you can do the job.

Don't make the mistake that other mid-career changers make by trying to put some lipstick on their old resume and think it will work. Never expect the employer to connect the dots, after reading your mind, and determine how you fit the needs of the open position.

To generate ideas to focus your resume you need to do in-depth research on the new career field. If possible talk to others working in the new career. They can provide you with a wealth of information. What are the basic qualifications required to get hired in this job? What skills are required? How well does your skills and qualification match what is required?

Look at postings for a dozen or more jobs in the career you plan on entering. Write out each skill and qualification required and score how many items appear in one or more job opening. If a certification is required what do you need to do? If a specific skill appears frequently, and you are lacking, how can you acquire the skill?

Often these gaps can be filled by completing a short course of study and receiving your certification. Other times an accelerated course of self-study will get the job done. If a more formal course of study is required, there is distance learning and classes after work and on weekends.

In writing your career change resume your focus should be on the needs and requirements of the prospective employer. If you look back over your career, including volunteer and community activities, you will be surprised at the breadth of your experience.

Write out the qualifications and skills required for the job. Now go down the list and match up your experience with the job requirements. Pay particular attention to transferable skills like team work, communication skills, budgeting, cost cutting, people management, customer service skills, program management, organizational skills and technology.

If you worked at something, for example, only 10% or less of you time, and it happens to be the number one job requirement, any accomplishments in this area will be highlighted by listing them first on your resume. It's not lying to structure your resume this way and there is no need to say you spent 10% or less on this activity. If specifically asked about it in a job interview you will have prepared a well thought out answer.

It can't be emphasized enough that your career change resume should focus on the needs of the employer. Anything that does not support this goal you should consider keeping it off the resume. All of your accomplishments listed in the career change resume should strongly support why you are a viable candidate for the job.

The reasons for your career change should only be articulated in your resume cover letter. Keep it brief but logical. You can show in the job interview how passionate you are about the new career and the steps you have taken to build your skills to match the job requirements.

Effective career change requires a well crafted career change resume. Anything less and you are at an extreme disadvantage in today's competitive job market.




John Groth has changed careers seven times during his working life. Learn more about changing careers, writing effective career change resumes and cover letters and career planning at http://careersafter50.com. Discover how others over age 50, built winning career plans and found the right careers by applying a variety of job hunting methods and used winning career planning after 50.




Friday, September 21, 2012

Career Advice For Your Midlife Crisis - 7 Tips


You've enjoyed your career for the past twenty years - maybe more. And now you're wondering: Maybe it's time to switch gears. A whole new career. Work at home. Retire.

Or maybe you're forced to revise your career due to layoffs or transfers.

(1) Expect midlife career change to be easier than entering the world of employment for the first time.

Most likely you enjoy a financial cushion: savings, home equity, and a retirement fund. You also have demonstrated skills and experience. If you're employed, your company probably offers resources for developing new skills and managing the transition.

(2) Expect midlife career change to be harder because you've invested in a career identity - way beyond skills and values. When you introduce yourself as, "Here's what I do..." you are also saying, "Here's who I am."

(3) Expect to change your appearance as you change careers.

Sadly, many individuals and organizations really do judge a book by its cover. Clients who want to start a business often are surprised by the increased need to dress up for presentations. An Armani label on a suit? A good start. But are yu wearing this year's suit? Colors that your target market deems "appropriate?"

Many career changes have opted for lower income in exchange for the opportunity to stay home and work in sweats or shorts - and, for women, say good-by to high heels and pantyhose forever.

(4) Recognize that career change often requires a geographic move.

Let's face it: Some places are just better for some careers. Your cost of living may be lower in a small city, but your opportunities to network will be limited. On the other hand, the lower cost of living may allow you to experiment with riskier ventures.

Often your own business doesn't depend on geography. Examples include Internet businesses, mail order shipment, and free lance writing. But you may need to keep on top of mainstream trends and where you live can influence your credibility.

(5) Expect to change your roles in all aspects of your life.

Family and community will view you differently. Some community groups assign You may have more or less time for your family (and they will view you differently). Board members based on the prestige of their day job. Some volunteer activities require you to be available on certain weekdays.

(6) Plan for a new social support system.

Lunch with coworkers. Drinks after work. Dinner with old friends on Friday night. You don't realize how much you enjoyed this support until it's gone.

Friendships change. When you leave a career, former colleagues can regard you with envy or suspicion. They won't understand your new world and the new challenges you face.

(7) Forget the myth, "If you can't be happy here, you won't be happy anywhere."

Many of my clients experienced career change following what seemed to be a midlife crisis. They were surprised to find their whole world looked different.

And that's why I say, "Career breakdown can be the first step to your major career breakthrough."




And now I invite you to learn more about how to master a major midlife career change. Visit Mid-Llife Career Change and down your FREE Report, along with your subscription to the Midlife Careers Ezine.

For the 21-Day Extreme Career Makeover, visit 21-Day Career Makeover




Why Career Goal Setting Is Needed For A Successful Career?


Have you wondered why some people are so successful in their career and others are not? This is so as most people who are unsuccessful in their career, give up their hopes and dreams. These people settle for something lower than their own capabilities. They did not do the things that people who are successful in their career do, which is keeping their focus on their future, and working towards it no matter what happen.

So how did successful people attain their desired profession and achieve career success? The first thing they did was to carry out career goal setting.

To perform career goal setting successfully, start your career desires explicitly and write them down. This provides you with a basic outline to follow when you set your career goals. With your career goals written out, you know your final destination and can steadily work towards it.

Also, when carrying out career goal setting, do not assume that you can achieve your long-term career goals easily and successfully. There is a risk in trying to reach the end without having mid-term and short-term goals along the way. To prevent this potential mistake, always start from the end and work backwards as it provides you with the elements for a successful career. Moreover, seeing it from the end to the beginning gives you a fulfillment that the long term career goals is achievable.

Paul is attending university to become a doctor. His parents persuaded him to have everything that was part of becoming a doctor written out in detailed form. By asking Paul to perform the above steps, they were actually asking him to carry out career goal setting in becoming a doctor. This includes the short-term, mid-term and long-term career goals of his.

Because he knew everything that was covered in going to university, he was able to do better than the average student. He was aware of every element in pursuing the doctor career and this prepared him well for the challenges he faced.

People often think that having a successful career will come easily. However, when reality struck, they become fearful and quit. Being prepared mentally requires you to be disciplined and persistent in order to overcome fears of failure, and thus achieve your career goals. Always expect the best of yourself and do not settle for anything less than what you are capable of achieving.

Remember, in summary, to achieve career success, always carry out career goal setting first. Write out the different elements involved and have a definite plan in mind. This enables you to envision the final outcome. Once that plan is written, take action and start working towards the career goals you have set. Also, do check on how much closer you are to your destination; your long-term career goals.




Vincent Seah is a goal setting expert and publisher of http://www.GoalSettingSuccess.com. He provides more goal setting success help, tips and goal setting software [http://www.goalsettingsuccess.com/goal-setting-software.php] tips you can check out on his website.




Is a CAREER Change Needed at YOUR House?


Are you happy where you are today? The number of folks who appear completely happy in their present career seems very low from all that I read across the news -- TV; newspapers; magazines, Internet websites, etc.

Maybe it's just a temporary thing. Instant gratification is more the norm today than ever before. We want it NOW, not later. It's

a learning curve for the new graduates from high school and college

before reality sets in for the long haul workplace discovery.

Sometimes you can find yourself simply at the wrong place. Don't

get anxious or overly excited when something changes, or life has

given you a few bad turns in the road to success. Never lose sight

of your long-term objective to be productive as well as happy in

your chosen career in the marketplace.

First, career strategies must be aligned with your objective to find

the dream job waiting in your future. When you're in a position of

choice, your decision, it's almost like your hobby has turned into

the cash cow you've always dreamed about.

Don't make a move without spending time to sort out options that

are available. Do your research in every career path. Never jump

at the first green light. Stop along the way, take your time, then

decisions can be made with positive energy as "right" for you.

Career strategies are a required element when you get ready to

make your career move. Make sure you have a sound career

development plan in place. There are many reasons why you

might be considering making a career change at this time.

You want to advance your career. You may be happy or unhappy

with your current job situation, but you have a strong desire to

either do something different or advance in a significant way. A

career makeover may be the next step, so that you can enhance

your value to your current employer.

A career change is in order. You want to do something completely

different as a career than what you are doing now. This might be

because you've lost interest in your original career... did you know

most people change careers at least 2 to 3 times in their work

lifetime? Or maybe, the choice was made for you when your firm

"downsized" you.

You want to go it "alone." You're ready to get out of the career rat

race altogether and try your hand at a work at home career of

some kind.

A focused career path makes sense for everyone. Too many employed

folks are not happy and want change... but have no clue where to begin.




Don Monteith spent 32 years as co-owner of several franchises and a personnel/staffing business. Every year, his firm placed hundreds of job candidates in their dream job. Today, Don shares his business and career expertise through his newest websites on the Internet. Lots of FREE ideas - suggestions - ready for your perusal and study.

http://www.Career-Coaching-Central.com
http://www.HowToGetYourDreamJob.com




Career Education: How It Can Propel Your Career Forward


Ongoing career education is something that can help separate from you other job searchers and in some cases might help to win you the job.

As a recruiter, I have worked with companies who won't hire people without a university degree. In some cases, they specify the type of degree needed but in other cases, the company doesn't care what the degree is in as long as you have one.

In other words, a lack of education can cost you. And you might not even realize it if the company doesn't publicly admit this policy but simply lets their recruiters know about this particular form of screening.

When planning your career, education can certainly have an impact on your success or lack thereof.

Here are some ideas regarding various levels of education that might help to determine your long-term success in the workplace.

University/College Career Education

As mentioned above, some companies you apply to might require a Bachelor's degree or college diploma and some might not even tell you up front that this is the reason you are being rejected. If you haven't achieved this level of education and feel like it's holding you back, you can do something about it. If you have a job, furthering your education through evening classes or online university training can be difficult to balance but it can be done. The long-term positive impact on your career can really make it worthwhile, too.

Post Graduate Career Education

If you have already have a university or college-level education, you might find that a further level of education can help take to a much higher level. Not only can a Masters degree or PhD level take you to a higher level of compensation - depending on your industry and existing level of experience of course - it can also help to project you to more senior positions that might otherwise be unattainable. If only getting such a degree was as easy as writing about it...Certainly, attaining a Masters or PhD level degree requires a special kind of person, a dedicated career-minded individual who no doubt clearly sees the value of education.

OK, let's say that anything related to degrees or diplomas is just not an option for you. There are still plenty of great career education options you can look at:

Industry-Specific Career Education

A good example of industry education is the various platform-specific designations that Information Technology professionals can attain in areas such as computer networking, routers, wireless and Internet technologies. Often these designations will not only separate you from candidates who don't hold a designation, it might be a requirement for actually applying for some jobs. Other examples of people who hold industry-specific designations are registered nurses and certified trainers.

Skills Training Career Education

There are a number of options you might consider such as computer training, presentation skills training, project management training, financial management training and assertiveness training just to name a few. If you can think of something about yourself that you'd like to improve, you can probably quickly find a course or some sort of training to take. Plus, taking training courses - especially if your employer pays for it - is a great way to keep active and network with others who might help your career.

Second Language Career Education

Getting a second (or third!) language under your belt can really make a difference in your career especially in the eyes of firms who look favorably at multilingual job candidates. If you work for a multinational corporation, a second or third language might open up job opportunities with this or other companies who operate globally. Often bilingual job candidates can be worth their weight in gold to a company.

During your career, education can often help to take your farther than you would otherwise have gone had you not achieved this level. As the above lists show, there are many options you can pursue to continue your education at any stage of your career.




Carl Mueller is an Internet entrepreneur and professional recruiter. Carl has helped many job searchers find their dream career and would like to help clear up some of the job search myths that exist while helping job searchers avoid common job search mistakes that cost them jobs.

Visit Carl's website to find your dream career: http://www.find-your-dream-career.com

Ezine editors/Webmasters: Please feel free to reprint this article in its entirety in your ezine or on your website. Please don?t change any of the content and please ensure that you include the above bio that shows my website URL. If you would like me to address any specific career topics in future articles, please let me know.




Sunday, September 2, 2012

Is Career Institute Training Right For You?


Career institute training is a better fit than a traditional degree for some people. It is an education program that usually results in a certificate of completion or a certificate of mastery instead of a traditional BA, BS or graduate degree. Career training focuses on teaching students things like basic office skills as well as skills for specific industries. Students in career oriented programs learn more about the day to day work that comes with that industry instead of focusing on getting an understanding of a wider topic like History or Math.

Career institute training is easy to access Career institute training online is available for many industries so that students can get the skills they need when it's convenient for them to attend class. Career training might be right for you if are:

Career institute training is suitable for whom?

Employed professional - An employed professional trying to move ahead: If you are already happy in your job and doing well at your job but you want to learn more so that you will stand a better chance of moving up the corporate ladder career institute training is probably a good fit for you. The focus on practical skills will help you achieve your promotion goals. You can also take a few career training courses in leadership and HR skills to show your boss that you would be a great supervisor.

Change Careers - An employed person who wants to switch careers: If you don't like your job and you want to make the jump to a new career it's important that you can demonstrate the skills necessary for that new career to potential employers. Career institute training will give you the experience you need to show employers that you can hit the ground running in a new career.

Find a New Job - An unemployed person who has been laid off: If you have lost your job and you can't seem to find any decent jobs in your field career institute training can give you a new set of skills so that you can start looking for work in other fields. A certificate from a career institute could help you get a toehold job in a new industry while you figure out what path you want your career to take.

Find a New Career direction - An unemployed person who doesn't know what they want to do: There are millions of people who haven't found their calling yet. But, you need to work and make money while you figure out what you want to do with the rest of your life. Career institute training will give you a great skill set that you can use to get a job while you figure out the path you want your life to take. It would be foolish to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars in a college degree if you don't really know what you want to study. A far less expensive certificate from a career institute will make it easier for you to get a job and save money for college so that when you do figure out what you want to study you'll be financially ready to attend college.




UCareerEducation.com [http://www.ucareereducation.com] is a professional education website who provide free information on Career Institute Training.




Are You Ready to Change Career Paths?


If you are already established in a current career, changing to a new career path involves taking a large amount of risk. But as the saying goes "no guts, no glory", and taking the risk can lead to great benefits. When looking into a new career path you should evaluate the amount of risk and the possible benefits. There are also some things you can do to start moving toward a new career without immediately giving up the stable career that you currently have.

The first thing you can do is offer to volunteer for something that applies to your desired career. You can gain experience that will boost your resume toward to your new career path and make the transition easier. You can also find out if this career change is right for you without immediately giving up your current career path. You can also take a part-time job in the field you are interested in. Like volunteering this gives you the chance to experience your desired career without losing your current one.

Going back to school is also a great way to boost your resume and gain experience with a new career. By taking classes at night at either a university or vocational school, you can move toward the new career without sacrificing your current stable career and paycheck. Schooling will often provide benefits even if you do not decide to change careers. It can help you move toward another area in your current career or just help you get the skills that will help you move forward in your current career. Going back to school is a decision that few people ever regret, so the risk with this plan is relatively small, though it does involve a monetary investment.

You can also decide to give up your current career and dive headfirst in a new one. You can help to supplement the decrease in income by working part time jobs on the side. This can be through working a part time job with an employer, or through freelancing. If you stay within your desired career path you can increase your experience and boost your resume by working within your field. The extra work might take up all your free time, but in the end you will be able to work in a job that you truly enjoy, which is a benefit that could be worth the risk. Giving up your current career by choice is a very risky maneuver, so if possible is always best to try and get experience and knowledge of your desired switch before quitting your current job. If you do not have that choice, then freelancing may be your best option.

If you have achieved a lot of success in your current career, and don't want to start over entirely, consider offering your services as a consultant or business coach. You can also choose to open your own business in a field that you love and have experience in. Whether your decision to start a new career is voluntary, or prompted by job loss, make the most of the opportunity, and take the time to find something that you love to do.




James Copper is a writer for http://www.baol.co.uk/career-change.html where you can find information on getting a career change




3 Career States and Why You Need to Be in Control


Working with thousands of clients as a Career Coach, I have concluded that there are 3 Career States which are fairly evenly distributed. None of these career states is inherently good or bad, but what makes the real difference is whether you are in control or able to determine your own future.

The 3 Career States are what I can only describe as 'moving forward', 'moving backward' or 'standing still' and most people will recognize which state applies to their job or career today.

Of course, whether you're moving forward, moving backward or standing still with your career doesn't actually matter if you are happy with that condition. Moving forward sounds like a positive situation, but isn't necessarily so whilst moving backward or even standing still sounds a little negative. Again that isn't necessarily so we need to consider who is in control.

Moving Forward

Of the 3 Career States this sounds the best and most desirable state to be in, one that most people would aspire to. But think about this: if you're being pushed further and faster by your employer than you feel able to cope with, is that good?

Moving forward at your own pre-determined rate, towards a goal of your choosing is a more satisfying and fulfilling condition so managing your own career progress is much more positive than your career being channeled only to suit your employer's needs.

Moving Backward

The obvious thought when you hear of someone's career going backwards is that they are failing or on the way out. I measure a backward moving career against the peer group and if they are moving forward, being promoted and you are not, or you are being passed over for promotion, then you are in the moving backward career group and need to act to take control before it becomes too late.

Of course, some people are approaching retirement and wanting to take things easier which looks like moving backward, but for the right reason and others are consciously 'downshifting' for a less pressured or more relaxing way of life. The difference here is that when the decision is your own, then moving backward with your career can be a very positive move for you and your family.

Standing Still

This is the area which people who are 'happy with their lot' occupy. For example the salesman who thoroughly enjoys the interaction with customers and although seen as capable of becoming a sales manager, rejects the idea of moving away from front-line customer contact to managing others who do.

This is different from the individual who is held back by their employer because they are seen as being too valuable in their particular role, which may eventually become stressful to the person concerned.

It's also different from the employee who has hit a career 'plateau' and become stuck doing one job. This candidate is often the first name that arises when downsizing looms.

So these 3 Career States are neither good or bad, that difference being determined by whether the individuals are in control of their own career paths; not being in control is something that can be stressful yet can be changed given the right information and a little determination. Whichever state your career is in, if you are not happy with it's direction, you must decide to take control.

Get help with asserting your employability, there are many Career Blueprints available which teach you how to redefine your own value and sell your unique skills either afresh to your current employer or to start over with a new career.




Peter Fisher is Coach and Webmaster for www.Your-Career-Change.com where you can download your free Special Career Change Report and 63 page PDF e-book "Big Book of Job Hunting Tips".




Tips For Career Changes After 50


The idea of people doing career changes after 50 may sound frightening. But for the individual who has suddenly found herself unemployed the option may be necessary but intimidating nonetheless.

And for those considering career changes after 50 simply because they want to try something different, the idea may be seen by family and friends as not only risky but also foolish.

Yet old age doesn't have to be a block in the road for an individual's career. In fact, career changes at this time in life may be easier through a change in professions that not only offers new opportunities for employment but also for someone to pursue a passion.

An employee may have grown old in their office because of the emphasis management places on youth. But there is also the realization that they no longer love what they do and it may be impacting their job performance.

Someone who has career experience in management may be just the right choice for a newspaper seeking a talented publisher. Such an individual may still have to learn the newspaper industry, but would possess the maturity and leadership that established journalists still lack.

Many church members who have become burned out in their jobs attend seminary and in some cases become staff members without returning to school based on their involvement in the church. In doing so they make a move toward a new career while pursuing a passion they love, in this case their church.

A career change at his stage in life may also involve approaching a job in a different fashion. A writer may choose to work freelance rather than for a publication. The career would remain the same, but the change would offer opportunities for setting their own schedule, working from home, being their own boss, and so on. Such a change would also reinvigorate their career and also allow them to continue in a profession they may still have a passion for.

Factors to consider in making a career change at this stage of life include:

* Will the new career pay enough to support their current lifestyle?

* Will the change cause problems to their family's lifestyle in addition to financial considerations?

* Will relocation be necessary?

* Is the career change something they really have a passion for or is this a passing fancy that will leave them unsatisfied again in a few years?

* Will the career change require returning to school and is this something the individual both wants to do and can afford?

Another important consideration is why a career change at all? In some cases a change may be dictated through unforeseen circumstances -- termination, business closing, downsizing, etc. But simply changing a career on a whim is not prudent and, as noted above, may lead to more unhappiness a few years later. The key is in education about the new career, along with speaking with individuals in the profession, and seeking advice of friends and loved ones.

Young people are known for a willingness to take risks. People become settled in their ways as they become older, but they don't have to. Whether it involves recreation, lifestyle or a career, it's never too late to try something different.

And, when it comes to careers, a career change after 50 may be the best and most rewarding decision someone may ever make in their professional life.




Whether changing jobs because of family commitments, health, advancement or interest, career change advice is vital to finding a better, well suited field of employment. For more free tips, reports, and career changes after 50 [http://www.advance-career.com] advice visit [http://www.advance-career.com]




Saturday, September 1, 2012

Rational Career Planning - Understanding 6 Career Vs Job Differences


To undertake a rational career planning approach, we need ask ourselves and acknowledge the answer to the following two similar questions.


Are words career and job synonyms of each other?
Does looking for a job mean the same as charting your career path?
The answer to both the above questions is a big 'No'. The terms career and job cannot be used interchangeably. Searching for a job and charting ones career does not mean the same thing. Let us try and appreciate the differences.

The Differences Between Career and Job


Career and job are two different concepts. Career is an all encompassing, broader concept whereas job is a narrower approach.
The search of a job begins when you complete your education or when you need one, whereas a career needs to be managed. It needs to be planned right from the stage of high school.
It is not necessary that a job or for that matter a good job may be a stepping stone towards achieving your career goal. Extending it further, it is not necessary that the promotions in your job may take you closer to your career goal.
Both career management and job search require a network. Practically, these days' networking is very essential. In the case of a job the network is very superficial. Your interest in the network and the networks interest do not have a depth. On the other hand, in case of a career, your network comprises of strong relationships. In a career you and your network add value to each other.
In the case of a career, you would time and again do a SWOT analysis (analysis with effort or determination) of skill set. You aspire to enhance your skill set and continuously work on yourself. Working on your skill set takes you closer to your career goal. On the other hand in the case of a job, you try to acquire skills which help you perform your job better, or help you to seek a promotion.
In a job your success is governed by what other people think and perceive but in the case of a career, you measure your success in your own terms. You measure your success against the time line that you decided for yourself.

Rational career planning goes hand in hand with understanding, but most of all acknowledging, these differences. People who have a job and are hired to accomplish a task set to accomplish someone else his goal. when the task is done, the job is done. People who have a career, work on it ever day. It is an ongoing process.

Just look up the descriptions of both terms in a dictionary.

Career

"an occupation or profession, especially one requiring special training, followed as one's lifework"

Job

"a piece of work, especially a specific task done as part of the routine of one's occupation or for an agreed price"




Yves Juliaan has been writing articles for several years. Check his latest website on indoor plant stands which gives people help and advice to find the best deals on any type of metal plant stand.




Changing Your Career - How To Overcome The Stress


Sometimes due to the need of survival in this competing world, workers have to undergo career change that may be completely different from their previous jobs. This will indubitably exert heavy stress on the workers because now, they do not know what they future will be. Questions like 'Can I survive from this new career?' or 'How if I suffer heavy losses from this jobs?' will keep popping up in your mind from time to time. In other words, this uncertainty of a career change has undoubtedly caused great stress.

Besides the fear of your future, the stress of a career change can also come from the urgent need to look for new home, relocating, and purchasing the necessary equipments. This preparation is necessary so that you can make profit your new career, but sometimes it turns out that this preparation has become an unnecessary stress of career change for you.

To manage this stress due to career change, you have to spend some time to relax and organize all the necessary things. Internet is always present for you to make research about your new career. You can also contact other companies that you think will be able to help you out in the future. This is vital to build a huge network which, in the future, will bring you tons of advantages. You can also start recruiting skillful people in each of their specific field so that when you have a big project to complete, you can always rely on these people. If you have these reliable people, your stress of career change will be, at least, alleviated.

If you are not sure yet about your new career, do not stress yourself out too much. You can always ask your close friends or even family members for their invaluable advice that you can later utilize for your own benefit.

You can also involve yourself in a work training program so that you are more prepared for your new career. Once you start your new career, you will know what to do. From your experience in the work training program, you will surely know what the risks are and so, you are more mentally prepared for those challenges. In this way, the stress that you will undergo will not be so enormous.You can also seek advice on the Internet on how to give an excellent first impression to your work mates. This will build up your relationship with others who will help you in times of difficulty. Besides, if you are unsure yet of what you will do, you can look for various job vacancy advertisements on the Internet or on newspaper. With these methods, you will no longer be stressed once you start a new career.

Stress due to career change can lower your productivity rate. You will not be able to do your job whole-heartedly and the profit earned will not satisfy you. Hence, do not let career change be a stress for you and with careful preparations, I am sure your career change will bring many benefits to your life.




Abhishek is a Career Counselor and he has got some great Career Planning Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 71 Pages Ebook, "Career Planning Made Easy!" from his website http://www.Career-Guru.com/769/index.htm. Only limited Free Copies available.




Career Changers - 6 Steps to Becoming 'Unstuck'


Are you 'stuck' in a career you dislike?

Do you want to change careers but feel 'tied' due to the salary you earn within financial services? Do you sometimes get excited by the idea of doing something completely different - but then find yourself (or others) talk you out of doing anything about it?

If this sounds like you, then you need to shut down that brain of yours and stop listening so much to the people around you. You need to stop planning ahead and just focus on taking some baby steps to get you unstuck. Once unstuck, you're in a much better place to push on with any type of change.

To successfully manage careers during times of uncertainty you need to stop over thinking career decisions and to stop over planning.

Old style 'Career plans' that rely on you doing X then Y to get to point Z in your career are no longer effective in today's work place. Career plans in times of rapid change and uncertainty are a waste of time - the world of work is changing far too quickly. Instead, your intuition and gut instinct is far better placed to offer solutions in times of change than your rational brain. If you're a potential career changer who is feeling 'stuck' - over thinking and over planning is precisely what will paralyse you into a state of inaction.

So instead of a 'plan', use your internal compass to navigate you in taking just the first step so that you become unstuck and can start moving forward with purpose and confidence. Here are 6 steps to help you get unstuck by experimenting with new careers.

1. Identify what it is you are drawn to

If you were given 3 days to go and 'test drive' 3 new careers - absolutely any three jobs or careers that interest you - what would they be? Jobs and careers that you find yourself intrinsically drawn to are like 'clues' or 'hunches' a detective would have. Neither you nor the detective know where the hunch will lead to - but you have to take the next step and let the trail unravel as you go along.

Whilst you're experimenting, forget how much they pay or how 'realistic' the 3 career ideas are. Forget what people would think if you ultimately chose to transition into those careers. Don't worry how ridiculous it may sound for you to become a professional poker player, a chef, a maths teacher or whatever else you are drawn to.

2. Identify people in your network who can help you

Who do you know that knows someone working in the sectors which interest you? Scan through your mobile phone, look through the contacts in your diary and take a look at all the people who you are connected to on social media platforms such as LinkedIn and Face Book.

3. Identify people within your contacts' networks that can help

Which of your contacts are likely to know someone in those sectors? I can pretty much guarantee that someone within your network (or within the network of someone you know) will have the right contact - you just need to work through them, ask the right question and request their support

4. Ask for help

Make a call or send an email asking for an introduction to the type of contact you're after.

And do it NOW whilst you're excited and energised at the prospect of spending a day with a great chef, hanging out with a professional poker player or whatever it is that rocks your boat - take action immediately. If you put it off, you'll convince yourself it's a silly idea or else put it off through fear.

5. Follow up (and keep following up)

Track every single lead and new contact you collect and follow through until you get the opportunity to spend a day, half a day or even just an hour with someone doing a job that interests you.

If that means you need to take the odd day off work - then do it. If it means you need to do it in the evening or at the weekend, then make time for it. If it's an activity or career that you are passionate about, it won't seem like 'work' anyway.

6. Listen, Reflect and Adjust

Whilst doing this volunteer work and work shadowing, listen to yourself. What parts of the roles you see interest you and excite you? Truthfully, what aspects do you feel you have a natural strength for - what aspects are you likely to struggle with? Answering these questions will give you some initial thoughts on whether you want to spend more time looking into this as a career option - or adjust your search to different areas.

Listen also to the people you meet. What's been their journey - what roles have they previously done? What other related roles exist in the industry that may also interest you? Who do they know in those sectors that you can go and spend some time with and so continue your journey towards finding your next career move?

You may never become a top chef, professional poker player or whatever dream career you have in mind right now. But spending time in these environments will open you up to related jobs or careers which you didn't know even existed.

The work shadowing may open new doors, provide you with new ideas and new contacts that will help you make a career change which satisfies your need for a change - whilst also meeting your financial needs. But you won't know what this career choice is unless you take the first step by listening to your instincts instead of your brain and your friends.

Is all this easy? No

Will it happen overnight? No

Will all this be a little scary at times? Yes

But it will be also be exciting and, if you follow ideas that you are personally drawn to, these steps will energise you. And even though you won't know exactly where you are heading at times, paradoxically you will feel much more in control of your destiny than when you were 'stuck.'

It requires courage to step out without knowing exactly where you will end up. But once you realise that the 'pain' associated with being stuck (frustration, anger, fear, loss of confidence) is far worse than the pain of stepping out into the unknown - it will give you a huge lift.

The 6 steps above won't magically transform you into a new career overnight - they will get you kick started by getting you out of a that rut and moving forward - which is the very first part of any career change.

So what are you waiting for? Go back to the top of the page and take the first step......




Sital Ruparelia publishes "Straight Talk", the weekly newsletter for 6-Figure Professionals who want to be more effective and achieve their career goals. If you're ready to jump-start your career, have greater success, satisfaction and rewards then get your F.R.E.E tips now at http://www.6FigureCareerManagement.com