SURVIVING THE WORKPLACE: Keeping Your Job by NOT Doing These Simple Things

Today’s blog is the last part of the three- part series of blogs “Surviving the Workplace”. This blog focuses on things you can do to guarantee yourself an escort to the door and out of your job.

Imagine arriving at your desk only to find that you have been terminated from your position. In today’s economy and with the National average of unemployment at 12%, this situation is not ideal for anyone. Protect your position and your bank account! Here’s a short sweet and to the point list of things that you never want to do on a job, unless you are actually trying to get canned.

These tips of what not to do may seem obvious, but you would be surprised at the number of people that actually do at least one of these things at work.

1) STEALING: This is a for sure way to be escorted off the premises. Don’t steal anything. Period. Your company pays good money for those supplies and it is not up to you to treat them like they are your personal things. Even the smallest, most insignificant items like pens, pencils, post- its, and computer paper all count. Just because it is something small does not mean it’s yours. Remember stealing is not only wrong, it is illegal!

2) BLAMING SOMEONE FOR YOUR MISTAKE: It might be embarrassing to admit when you made a mistake, but admitting it demonstrates maturity and is a direct reflection of your character. Better believe your boss will consider you for the bigger and better if you can own up to your own mistakes rather than making excuses or blame others.

3) SPREADING GOSSIP: Gossip, while entertaining in the short term, is immature and creates unnecessary drama in the workplace. Stay away from any gossip you hear, as it can easily lead to termination.

4) GETTING TO COMFORTABLE: Many times, when we have been at a job for a while, we get comfortable and slack off in areas where we would have kept sharp in the beginning. Always remember; dress professionally, keep a professional attitude with all co-workers and upper management, show up on time and meet all deadlines. You always want prompt and reliable to be included in a description of you, and getting to comfortable will ensure those 2 words are never used.

5) DOING POOR WORK: Always go above and beyond what is expected in you. Working harder will not only ensure you keep the job you have but it can also lead to a promotion.

6) FAILURE TO GET ALONG WITH SUPERVISORS AND COWORKERS: Contributing to the overall morale of the company is important. When you don’t get along with upper management they are going to see you are not an asset to the company. Never argue with a superior. If you have a problem, ask them to talk it out with you. If you can’t resolve it professionally, speak to your superiors supervisor. Keep a professional, calm demeanor ALWAYS.

7) LYING ABOUT YOUR QUALIFICATIONS OR JOB HISTORY: You made it through the interview process and landed the job but don’t think you are in the clear just yet; you’re still in your probation period. If it is obvious that you can’t do the job you said you can do, you can be sure that your employer is going to do more in depth research into your background. People have been terminated for incorrect dates of employment as well as out and out lies about employment history or educational degrees. Be honest at all times.

8) COMPLAIN ABOUT YOUR JOB: Don’t think that what you say to a co-worker won’t get to someone of higher authority. Don’t complain about your job; Someone else could be hired for your position and love it; be thankful that you have a job.

9) DON’T BOTHER LEARNING WHAT IS EXPECTED OF YOU: When hired for a job, or even after you’ve been in a position for awhile, make sure you know what is expected of you. The best way to be clear on job expectations is to sit down with your manager and outline what your job entails, your deadlines, and company policies. This will eliminate any guess work.

10) LEARN TO SAY, “THAT IS NOT PART OF MY JOB.” Remember, it is important to always go above and beyond. Learning and executing a foreign task outside of your typical duties can be a promotion in the making. If you demonstrate a negative attitude toward learning something new, how long will your employer be interested in keeping you in a position where they need a team player? You can never tell your boss, 'no, I don't think I will do that.’

11) FORGET TEAM WORK: Remember your parents teaching you to play nice with others? Well, that old playground rule is still in effect in office politics. Teamwork is important in everything that you do. It demonstrates your ability to incorporate others’ ideas, that you are willing to learn from co-workers, and that you don’t mind giving or receiving help from others.

12) CONSISTENTLY SHOW UP LATE OR LEAVE EARLY FOR WORK: This type of behavior shows that you think you are more important than your peers, your boss, and your employees and indicates you don't value them or your job.

13) TREAT DEADLINES AS UNIMPORTANT: Deadlines? What are those? If you don’t know, this probably pertains to you, so listen up! Deadlines are the moment your boss is expecting that paperwork in his inbox or on her desk. Extensions should be requested the day before, rather than at the last minute. If you are going to be late, give a courtesy phone call to let your coworker or supervisor. When you are late it affects everyone working on the project.

14) ABUSE OF COMPANY EQUIPMENT: We've all seen the animation of the office drone becoming increasingly frustrated and destructive (http://www.dragonflightstudio.com/banghead.gif), but the reality is that equipment is expensive, and banging keyboards, pounding your mouse on your desk, or slamming your desk drawers is more than inappropriate--it costs the company money. Failing to take care of the technology and equipment provided to help you better accomplish your tasks is always unacceptable.

Here is a few that I have mentioned in past blogs that I did not add to the list but could be considered valid in this topic too:

• INVOLVING CO-WORKERS IN YOUR PERSONAL PROBLEMS
• ABUSING COMPANY TECHNOLOGY: This means using the internet or phone for your personal needs.

I’m sure you catch my drift. But let me emphasize one more time—if you don’t know or aren’t sure if your behavior is beyond reproach and everything that an employer would expect, step up the game. Believe me, it costs employers a lot of time and money to find a candidate, get them hired, and train them. They don’t want to have to fire you any more than you want to be fired.

Carly Sabato

SURVIVING THE WORKPLACE: Keeping your Job by Being Professional

In the last blog, I talked about keeping your job by leaving personal issues out of the workplace. Learning how to keep your personal life out of the office is a great step to remaining professional but it isn’t all there is to it. In this blog, I will be discussing what is and is not appropriate for professional behavior in the workplace.

I know we can all agree there is a time and place for certain behaviors. When at work, we can certainly agree to remain professional, right? But what does “remain professional” mean, exactly? Professionalism, to most people in the workforce, simply means coming to work on time, completing tasks given to you either before or on deadline, and just simply doing the job you were hired to do.

It is vital for your career to be considered an asset to the company. You must be thought of as reliable, competent, and dependable, and willing to go above and beyond what is actually expected of you. These attributes will contribute to your air of professionalism, which, in turn, will further your career.

Here are some helpful tips to remain professional at all times:

1) Be Positive: This is simple. Instead of looking at the glass as half empty, look at it as half full. Try to maintain an upbeat attitude; trying to solve problems rather than stopping in your tracks will negate a pessimistic attitude and show others your will to succeed.

2) Respect Others: Follow the rule, “treat others as you would want to be treated.”

3) Be Honest: Honesty in an employee is important to the company as a whole. It’s also important to the people you work with. Trust must be earned and is almost impossible to rebuild once broken.

4) Support Others: It is important for you to shine, but support your colleagues in their achievements as well. Remember to remain supportive of your co workers by sharing what you know--they will return the favor.

5) Listen: You want to be listened to and so do others. Remember if you don’t listen when another colleague speaks then more than likely they are not going to listen to what you have to say either.

6) Be Reliable: People are comfortable giving you projects and special tasks or assignments if you are punctual in everything that you do.

7) Integrity: Stay consistent in what you say and do. Don’t flip flop from one idea to another. Refrain from gossip and don’t give anyone any reason to doubt what you say.

8) Competence: You were hired for the job because your employer believed you were the best candidate for the position—that means asking questions when you don’t understand. A better informed employee makes fewer mistakes and lets the employer know s/he made the right choice in hiring you!

These are simple things that you can do to facilitate a professional manner in the workplace. In today’s working world, it is imperative to prove your worth and maintain a professional demeanor. These skills will keep you sharp, which is always important when it comes to keeping your job!

Carly Sabato

SURVIVING THE WORKPLACE: KEEPING YOUR JOB BY LEAVING THE PERSONAL STUFF OUT

The next three blogs are going to address how to establish as well as maintain a professional and hardworking attitude while at work. It is important for everyone in the workplace to learn to leave their personal life outside the office, even when things might be overwhelming at home. The office is no place for drama and keeping it out of the workplace is the best method to keeping your job.

Let’s face facts-- We all have “those days”. Days where life seems to be crashing down around us and you wake up late, then argue with the kids or your significant other, and to top it off, the car breaks down. No matter what the added stress is, learning how to control it until the workday is finished is going to be the best thing for you and your job.

The workplace is like a jungle, it is survival of the fittest. You, as an employee, should understand that bringing unnecessary drama to the office is not only going to affect your work ethic but it might affect you on a higher level as well.

Many times, when we are stressed, we feel the need to talk about what is going on. You may find it comforting to confide in a co-worker you are close with, but keep that idea in check! Imagine that you are up for a promotion. Your only competition for this promotion is this other co-worker whom you have trusted with some intimate details. It’s possible your co-worker will spill the beans to land the job, which leaves you out in the cold.

Keeping what is personal out of the workplace is not limited to the conversations you have while on the clock. Here are some other activities that need to be left at home too:

1) No texting: It may not be distracting to others but it is affecting the way you work.

2) No personal phone calls on your cell phone or on the office phone. If it is an emergency or a phone call you must take, then step away from your desk to take the call.

3) No non-work related emails: This includes emails from friends, emails that are fun or funny, or emails that are of a personal conversation.

4) Errands! For example: paying bills, shopping for that perfect outfit, or planning that long needed vacation. Leave them for your lunch hour or for after work.

5) Internet Activity: Most offices limit the access that employees have to the internet. However, if the office doesn’t limit your access, that doesn’t give you a free pass. Focus on what you have to do at work and remember no social media sites like Facebook or Myspace, no online games, or IM Chats.

You are not paid to play. If you are spending more time doing things that entertain you or are aiding in your personal life, eventually someone will find out and that could mean your job. So, instead of jeopardizing your career, pack your survival workplace kit with tact, a positive attitude, dedication and let your work ethic stand out in the madness of the jungle.

Carly Sabato

Attention All Job Seekers: Let Me Help!

You're doing everything right. You're sending out your professionals resume, following up with a call, and being adamant about your search but still... no bites.

EmploymentGuide.com is willing to help!

I would like to feature local job seekers weekly by highlighting them in a feature blog. I will be putting a spotlight on job seekers that are actively looking for a job. I will detail their experience, what he/she is looking for, and other common interview style questions to feature the job seeker's best features.

What's that you say? You want to be the first features jobseeker? Well, my requirements are simple. Basically, I will need an up-to-date resume and a head shot or some type of professional profile picture. You will need to be available to talk with me via telephonce for amaximum of 20 minutes and meet with me in person for approximately a half an hour in the Town and Country area.

This is a great opportunity for job seekers interested in any industry, so don't pass it up. We'll run you through a simple screening process but this is something we've designed to help people want the help! This featured blog piece will not only appear on our blogsite but it will also be distributed to all the companies who participate in our job fairs as well all employers who advertise with the Tampa Employment Guide.

If you think you are the right candidate to be featured in a spotlight blog highlighting you, the jobseeker, than please respond immediately. You can respond via email at carly. sabato@employmentguide.com or post a comment with you information as well.

Don't forget, please include these three things:

• A quick explanation of why you think you are the right person to be featured.

• Update resume

• Head shot/ professional profile picture (please see below for head shot examples)

• Contact information

HEAD SHOT EXAMPLES:

Looking forward to hearing from all you! I hope you are as excited about this idea as we all are. Let me know if you have comments or if you have ideas on how to improve the blog!


Carly Sabato

Job Seekers: Are you Really Adamant about Finding a Job?

Today's blog is going to highlight what type of job seekers you are. Do you know? It's a difficult question to answer without some prompts to help you decipher. Check out the questions below:

1) When did you decide to take a holiday break from job hunting?

a) Before Thanksgiving (After all, there's so much to do!)
b) Early December (Nobody hires during the holidays)
c) Last week (Everyone's on vacation, right?)
d) Take a break! Are you serious, I need a job?

So what was your answer? If yo answered A through C, it may be time to reevaluate your enthusiasm for finding a job. However, if you answered D you're close to on the right track.

2) How do you respond to leads from friends for jobs you don't think you want at their company?

a) Tell your friend why you don't want the job.
b) Ignore the lead (Your friend will not care if you do not follow up)
c) Apply, but do the bare minimum to get it.
d) Thank you friend, ask him or her for more information and apply with full force in trying to get the job, ask your friend for a great recommendation and to keep you informed about the position. Or, thank your friend but decline the position and your reason why.

Did you answer D? Is so, congratulations! You are an active job seeker. If your answer was A-C, it might be time to re- think your strategy.

3) When you come to realize you are qualified for the jobs you seek, do you:


a) Continue to apply for the same jobs in the same way, hoping someone will eventually hire you despite your inadequacies?
b) Gripe and reminisce about the good old days when you were hirable?
c) Hope that jobs that no longer exist will come back?
d) Take classes, seek out online learning opportunities, ask knowledgeable friends to teach you, or shadow an expert so you can become marketable?

I think the answer to this question is common sense (It is D by the way). However, take a look at what you in your free time. If you're unemployed, you should have plenty of that! Are you really doing things to make yourself more hirable that other candidates or are your doing the bare minimum, thinking if an employer wants you they will hire you regardless of what you do?

Have you figured out what type of job seeker yo are? If you are not really trying to find a job, then maybe you answered your own question when you asked, "Why have I not been hired." If this is the case than you might want to re- think how you are going about looking for a job. You can change your ways once you have noticed where your error are. Make the change and become the job seeker that answered D to all of the questions above.

What do you think? Did this help you figure out what type of job seeker you are? Did you realize something about yourself that you did not know about before reading this blog? Leave some comments and let me know.

(These questions were found on different Google sites and narrowed down to three helpful questions.)

Carly Sabato

Unemployment: When will it Change?

Unemployment is the topic on everyone's mind since the recent fall of the economy. At 12 percent, Tampa's unemployment rate is beating the 10 percent National unemployment average. However, things seem to be on the up and up according to President Obama's speech stating that the economy will grow by 95,000 jobs a month in the next year.

Although slow, this turn around will begin to put a dent in the unemployment rate, but it will not be until the year 2015 that the unemployment rate will fall below 6 percent.

We are not out of the dark yet. There is stil a lot of work to be done. Reports say that Americans will face more economic woes, such as home foreclosures before there is a noticeable turnaround.

The recent job bill currently in the works in Congress has four key components. I've listed them below for those of you who aren't familiar:

* Payroll tax holiday. Companies that hire people when have been unemployed for at least 0 days won't have to pay certain payroll taxes this year.

* Highways spending. The bill extends that Highways Trust Fund through the end of 2010.

* Local bonds subsidies. The federal government would keep subsidizing state and local government bonds for projects such as local schools.

* Small business deductions: The bill makes it easier and faster for small businesses to make tax- deductible expenses.

A procedural vote of this bill will be taken this month, February 22.

All well and good. But what does this bill mean for Tampa. Well, the $819 billion stimulus bill, which has been passed by the House but is under review by the senate, allows for Tampa to be able to modernize schools, improve roads, and expand healthcare.

The bill would provide much needed jobs and help decrease the high unemployment rate int eh Bay area. The total shares for the state of Florida included in the bill break down are:

• Six billion for education to build new schools and bring in better technology.
• Four billion for healthcare to expand Medicaid and provide healthcare for kids.
• Two billion to help the roadways, including Interstate 275 and I-4 connector.
• 900 million to temporarily expand food stamps.

This bill certainly helps brighten the future for many people in Florida and specifically the Tampa Bay community. However, it is not approved yet. There is still a lot to consider. For many, changes won't be noticeable for at least five years and there are so many people in need right now. However, it is something. It is a step in the right direction for an economy that has been suffering for a while now. I think we can all agree on one thing, it is absolutely time for a positive change.

What do you think? Is this a bill that needs to be approved? Or is there something else that we need to do to improve the economic situation? Leave your comments so I an post for others to read.

Cell Phone Etiquette

Picture this; you are out at a restaurant enjoying yourself when, from the next table over, you hear a blaring hip- hop beat screaming for you to "Drop It Low." The diner next to you finally answers, and proceeds to gab away about her recent break up with her boyfriend.

Definitely not something anyone wants to hear while enjoying a day out. You want to take the cell phone and drop it in the woman's water cup, but instead you ask politely for her to excuse herself until her conversation is done. To your surprise, the woman looks at you and says, "It's a public place." Annoyed and angry you return to your interrupted dinner to brew over her rude behavior. You begin to think about cell phone etiquette. So what is proper cell phone etiquette?

In this blog, I am going to highlight the top eight rules of cell phone etiquette, so you won't ever be the annoying woman (or man!) in the above scenario.

The Rules:

1) When a private conversation is not possible: Public setting like restaurants, waiting rooms, hallways, buses, subways, and really anywhere that is public is not a good place to have a cell phone conversation. DO NOT talk on your phone in the restroom. No one needs to have their private time invaded by another person's phone conversation. Proper cell phone etiquette for this situation is to put your cell phone on vibrate or silent and let the call go to voicemail. If it is an important call, step outside or to a secluded area. If this is not possible, answer the call in a low toned voice, keep it brief, and let the caller know you will call them back shortly.

2) Phone off when the lights are out: In movie theatres, playhouse, and observatories cell phones need to be turned off. There is no excuse to answer the phone or have it in these types of atmospheres. People pay good money to attend these events and they do not want to heat your choice of ringer o your conversation with your best friend about last night's activities.

3) Modulate your voice: Cell phones pick up even the softest voices. Keep your voice low, do not yell, and keep emotions out. Be considerate of your surroundings and your companions by keeping your conversations private. Tell the caller you will return the call and step outside or away from others to talk.

4) 10- Foot Proximity Rule: This rule maintains that you keep a 10- feet distance from the nearest person when talking on your cell phone. Even if you talk in a low toned voice, if you are right next to a person they are likely to hear your conversation.

5) Keep it short: All public conversations need to be kept brief and let the caller know that you will call them back at a more convenient and private time.

6) When you are with your loved one's, be with them: Simply put, it is rude to be on the phone when you are on a date or during any type of social engagement. Return the call later.

7) Drive, don't talk: We are all good at multitasking but there is a time and a place for multitasking. Accidents are on the rise because of the improper usage of cell phones. No call is important that it can't wait until you have reached your destination. If you must talk while driving, pull over and stop driving! If you have a distracting or upsetting call, remain stopped until you calm down.

8) Common sense, please: Turn off your phone before job interviews, presentations, or boardroom meetings. Leave it off at funerals, weddings, museums, the courthouse, library, or a place of worship. Keep it off or on silent anywhere where quietness is appropriate or mandated.
If you aren't sure if it is appropriate to talk on the phone, DON'T ANSWER. Let the call go to voicemail and return the call or send a text message to let the person know you will get back to them shortly.

Do you have proper cell phone etiquette? Take this little quiz to find out. It also will give you some other interesting information in cell phone etiquette. QUIZMOS.

Have some comments or stories in relation to this blog. Leave them in the comment spot so I can post them for others to read.

Carly Sabato

Tampa Job Fair Tomorrow-- Make Sure You Are Ready

Attention all Tampa job seekers, are you ready for the job fair tomorrow from 10am to 2pm at the Museum of Science and Industry on Fowler Avenue?

Today, this blog will focus on those last minute reminders to make tomorrows job hunt a success.

Remember:

Dress to Impress: The appropriate outfit can make all the difference. Not only will it give you an extra boost of confidence, but it will make the employers hiring look at you as a professional who is serious about finding a job and working hard.
- Check out Dress to Impress at The Spot Blog for more information and helpful tips on the right and wrong outfit choices.

Bring a Great Resume: The right resume will make all the difference. 1 to 2 page max and tailored around the type pf job your are searching for. Make sure format is correct and all information is updated. Also, bring LOTS of copies. You may find the perfect employer for you is the last one you visit and you want to have enough copies of your resume to give to each one!
- Check out Make Your Resume Work For You, Not Against You at The Spot Blog for more information and helpful tips on creating the right resume.

Have a Great Attitude: Job fairs can be tough because there is a large amount of people there all for the same reason. The best thing you can do is stay positive and maintain a great attitude. Be open minded, keep a smile on your face, and remain upbeat. This will give employers who are looking to hire the reassurance they are looking for when considering you for their open position. Remember, first impressions are the impressions that stick with an employer when they leave the job fair.

Are you still feeling apprehensive about tomorrow's job fair? Check out The Spot Blog for other helpful tips and information like; Be Prepared to Answer the Questions, Job Seekers: Be the Product, Sell Yourself, and Job Seekers: What About Networking.

Have any questions about today's blog? Are you planning to attend tomorrow's job fair? Leave comments on the blog page so I can post them for others to read. Good luck tomorrow!

Carly Sabato

Job Seekers: Let's Dress To Impress

A first impression is the most important in the interview process. Therefore, what you choose to wear to your interview will either make a great impression or will leave you still looking for a job.

A good rule of thumb to follow when dressing for an interview is to dress better than what an employer of the company would wear. But what do you do if you don't have a clue what your interviewer will be wearing? What if you don't know whether the company is business casual or just casual?

It's a situation that occurs more and more frequently in Tampa as many companies have instituted a very casual dress code. Remember, it's always best to be overdressed for an interview. Still undecided? Check out these tips when deciding what to wear for the interview.

Attire for Males:


-The suit:

Navy blue or charcoal gray
If wearing a pinstripe be very subtle in your decision.




- Style:

Two or three buttoned tow- piece suit

-Fit:

Jacket should be able to be buttoned without seeming too tight

Arms should be long enough so that 1/4 inch of your dress shirt can be seen from cuff when arms are relaxed.

If you don't own a jacket and matching pants, be sure to adhere to the shirt and tie guidelines below.

-The Shirt and Tie:

White shirts are the best way to go. If you go with any other color you can choose a pale blue, cream, or almond color shirt, but NO stripes or patterns.

When wearing a collard shirt, point collars are the way to go for the interview.

Shirts should be 100% cotton.

DO NOT wear a golf shirt or t-shirt to an interview.

- Tie color and size:

2 3/4 to 3 1/2 inches wide, and not exceeding the belt buckle

Traditional pattern

Silk Material (or a good look alike)

Windsor Knot- you can find a video online to show you how to tie this properly.

- Shoes and Belt:

Black or brown leather dress shows (black recommended)

Shoes must be polished.

Belt must match your shoe color.

Sneakers are not acceptable!

- Don't forget the Little Things:

Socks should be dark and match the suit you are wearing

Wedding rings should be the only type of jewelry to be worn. Certainly remove all large earrings or facial piercings.

Use very little cologne or none at all!

Hair should be clean and well kept

Facial hair is not recommended unless well groomed


Attire for Females:




- Suit and Blouse:

Dark colors: Navy blue, black or a charcoal gray

White or ivory blouse and either cotton or silk material

-Style:

Skirts are preferred above a pantsuit.



- Fit:

Skirts should reach at least the knees

Suit should be able to be buttoned without looking tight in any areas.

- Shoes and Belt:

Closed toe shoes

Polished

Dark colored to match suit

Heels should be no more than 1 to 2 inches

Small belt with a solid colored only if needed

- Purse:

Small and plain and it should match your shoes and belt

- Make- up and Nails:

Light shades; nothing heavy

Nails should be well manicured and clean; if polished use light color or clear

- Extra Information:

Stocking should be plain and match skin tone

Jewelry should be minimum; single necklace, a watch, a ring, and/ or stud earrings

Still a little confused on exactly what to wear to the interview? Check out the "Dress to Impress" video blog to see some examples of what to wear and what not to wear.

Have a comment or know any other helpful tips for dressing for an interview? Leave your comments on the blog.


Carly Sabato

Job Seekers: You Might Actually have to Seek for a Job

I spend my day doing research on topics I think would interest you or something that I think is pretty impressive or a neat little fact. Then I focus my blog on that tidbit.  Today, I came across an article that struck my interest; it was all about "hidden jobs."  It occurred to me that I had never even considered looking for a job that is not advertised.  But, I am of the "seek and ye will find" opinion, so why not?

Think about it.  As job seekers were all looking in the right place, but that right place is where everyone is looking.  It not only creates competition, but it creates frustration as well.

Here's a little known fact-- Did you know that 80% of all positions are filled without an employer advertising?  If you're jobseeking the traditional way, that leaves you with a 20% chance of getting the job, if those stats are right.  Match yourself against other candidates and your chances get lower and lower.

Instead of playing by the same rules as all the other jobseekers out there, think about what you can do to distinguish yourself from the competition and brand yourself as a go getter and someone who really thinks outside the box (you know employers love those types!)  Instead of looking for jobs that you're invited to apply to- ie. what you find on traditional job boards or in print ads- pry a little and uncover jobs that are hiding from you.

Where are these hidden jobs?  They could be as close as your next phone call or email.  (I know this will surprise you, but here's another plug as to why you need to network!)  Finding these hidden jobs is going to require an inside man.

Employers are always looking for the "right" candidate to replace someone leaving the company, a retiring employee, and/or inefficient workers.  Most of the time, the employer does not want to advertise the opening because of the large number of applicants that apply.  To weed out non- qualified applicants and find a replacement quickly, employers look within the company.  The first step?  Advertise within.  Generally, companies have a website where they post any open positions.  Or maybe they stick fliers up in the cafeteria.  They are announced in division meetings... Anything to get the word out.

If you're networking, you will hear about it because your contact at XYZ company will think of you and call to let you know.  Ok, maybe they don't call.  Maybe you get an email.  Point being, you will hear about it.

Assuming you haven't gotten that call/email yet, the best way to begin searching for "non- advertised" jobs is to open up your networking folder and start making some phone calls.  Get in touch with your contacts on a regular basis and remind them you're still looking for that perfect job.  Check out the websites of companies you are interested in knowing about.  Learning all you can now will just make you that much more prepared when you get that call for the interview!

* If you have not learned how to network, check out my past blog, Job Seekers: What about Networking, for some helpful tips.

I found a great site that I think gives a tremendous amount of information: Occupation Outlook Handbook of 2010-11.  This site has information on hundreds of different types of jobs. This handbook details training/ education needed, earnings for the particular job, expected job prospects, what is actually done at the job, and the conditions for the worker.  It also details other great links to tips for searching for jobs, information about the job market in your state, and common questions that are being asked among job seekers.

What do you think about this post?  Can you see yourself finding or do yo have any tips for finding a "hidden job"?  Leave your comments below and check back tomorrow for another blog idea and post to your comment.

Carly Sabato

Search for the Right Job in the Right Place

Whether you're a veteran in the workforce looking for a job after recent lay offs or are the proverbial 'new kid on the block' fresh out of college and looking to land that first professional job, learning to tailor your job search to your experience or your freshly earned degree will better serve you in the long run.

We've discussed the importance of knowing how to write a great resume and how to conduct yourself in an interview.  But, none of that matters if you don't end up looking in the right place (which really means the right search engine and websites) for the type of employment you want most.

Who hasn't heard of Google?  Or doesn't know that most information is readily available by hitting the Internet.  Anything you want to know is a the tips of your fingers.  So, attack your job search in the same fashion as you would if you were looking for the best place to vacation. Search for a job and post your resume on sites that are tailored to your career category.  This is a ridiculously simplified example, but let's say you were really craving pizza.  Would you go to a restaurant that served only eggs and bacon?  Certainly not.  So, treat your job search the same way!  There are some great sites that can lead you in the right direction.  Click either of the links below to get a little guidance.

http://www.quintcareers.com/Indres.html

http://jobstar.org/alljobs.php

Remember, to really be effective in your job search, you must decide what type(s) of jobs you are interested in.  Than, park yourself in front of your computer (or hit up your local library's computer desks!) and do some searching on the Internet.  Make sure you have your resume and a copy of your cover letter in electronic format so you an apply immediately to jobs as you find them- no sense in having to remember on what site you found that perfect job only to find it has been removed from the site when you return to apply.

Do you have any tips for your fellow jobseekers?  Tell me some industry sites you know of and I'll post them in my favorite links section.

Keep reading tomorrow for a follow up blog, "How to Find the Hidden Jobs."

Carly Sabato 

Job Seeker: What about Networking

Networking is a word used frequently in the working word, but what does it really mean? It could be said it's about making connections and building long lasting and mutually beneficial relationships. But, the best way to understand it is remembering that old cliche; It's not what you know, it's who you know!

Think about it. Everyday businesses are bombarded with emails, advertisements, sales pitches, interviews, phone calls, resumes, and people showing up at the door expecting some face time. What is going to make them want to talk to you or even help you? But if you had an "in"- some way to distinguish you from the rest of the masses...

Networking is your gateway to the ultimate contact list and preview to job openings. It is about building long- term relationships and connections that can help lead you to finding a job. Once you start networking, people established in your desired field will be able to help you meet others as well as vouch for your character and work ethic.

Ever heard of 6 Degrees of Kevin Bacon? It;s basically the concept that any actor can be linked through his or her film roles to actor Kevin bacon within six steps. Well, networking is essentially the same thing. It has a continuing effect. For instance, you meet one person who knows 5 people. Those 5 people each know 5 people and so on... every person you build a relationship with has connections. You never know who you know that knows just the right person for you to land that perfect job.

Here is extra information for you networking process:

Internships are a great way to meet people and lead to a larger network.

Career fairs are useful in making connections as well, but you have to make yourself memorable. You need to stand out in the employer's mind. How can you differentiate yourself from the thousands of other people at the job fairs? Be sure to talk to the employers at these events and brings a great attitude and a memorable and professional resume!

Professional organizations can offer connections too.

Remember everyone you know is included in your network- family, relatives, friends, professors, coaches, former bosses, etc.

When trying to build your network, be persistent but not overwhelming.

When contacting people do not call more than once or twice every two weeks and leave brief but professional and polite voicemail. Address the contact by name and be sure to speak slowly and end your message with you phone number TWICE. This gives the contact plenty of time to grab
a writing utensil.

BE PATIENT: Networking takes time. People who have many great contacts have been collecting them for years.

Remember, thank you notes are a great added touch to successful networking. Everyone-- from he company mail room clerk to the CEO-- appreciates a well thought out, hand written thank you note. Let them know you were pleased to meet them, appreciated the conversation you had and look forward to speaking to them or meeting with them again soon. It's short, sweet and to the point without being pushy or over- effusive.


Carly Sabato