Friday, July 30, 2010

Calling Experienced Medical Collectors!!!

Your five years experience in medical collecting will make you a star with the great team at this practice. You will be on the phone 90% of the time following up with Medicare, Medicaid and private pay insurance companies. Working with these groups to discover why they made a partial payment or no payment will get the information you need to re-bill them. If you discover errors were made in when the practice billed, you will lead the effort to find these errors and insure that the billing is corrected and re-sent. This is a full time position that will be filled through the temp-to-hire process. The position is open because the person filling it was promoted to a new position at a different office within the practice. There are four other collectors in this group that truly work as a team for a great manager.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Why Wasn’t I Hired?

Interviewing can be both frustrating and arduous because throughout the process, you receive little or no feedback except for the obvious: if they want you back, they contact you. If they don’t, frequently you never hear from them again. But after a first interview the reasons for not being asked back are numerous, and quite frankly, usually they’re about you: lack of experience, poor interviewing skills, inadequate preparation and research, or similar shortcomings. As a result, another candidate generates more excitement.

But sometimes you are the candidate who’s invited back for a second or even a third interview. After that, though you’ve reached the final stages of interviewing and feel sure an offer is imminent, suddenly……nothing.

Sometimes the process has stalled. Occasionally - and stupidly - a company finds the perfect person, but feels they have to interview a specific number of people first, and while they do, they’re under the impression you’re waiting happily in the background with your life and emotions on hold until they contact you again.

Other times only a letter in the mail tells you it’s done. Rarely are candidates told why they didn't get the job. Unless you get this far in the process, usually you aren’t even told that much. Was it something you did? Maybe. But maybe not!

Relax. While you’re busy wondering what went wrong or trying to convince yourself it had nothing to do with you...sometimes that’s the truth! You and that company just weren't meant to be, and nothing you might have done - or not done - would have made any difference.

Consider these factors, all of which take place without your knowing:


•A last-minute candidate appeared on the scene who was exactly what they were looking for. Maybe you were almost perfect, but for some reason, the last-minute candidate was just a bit more whatever they were looking for. If you experienced a delay in your interviewing late in the process, odds are very good your position as the top candidate was usurped at the last minute.

•An internal candidate entered the picture. Though many companies post positions internally first and go outside only after exhausting internal options, that doesn’t account for someone changing his mind - especially if it was the person they were initially targeting.

•The company decided to eliminate the position or put the hiring process on hold. Sometimes when a company doesn’t know in which direction they want to go, they run an ad to “see what’s out there” and then eliminate the position when their water walker fails to submit a resume. On other occasions, the process might be halted as a result of some event that changed the circumstances - and thus changed their decision about interviewing.

•One of the interviewers that came into the picture later in the process didn't like you. Perhaps you reminded them of a former employee that didn't work out. Maybe they were threatened by your expertise and skill. In any case, they carried enough weight or had enough of a valid point to get you jettisoned from the process.
Interviewing is the process by which you find a company you like, and by which a company hires you because they feel you’re the best person for the job. Everything happens for a reason, and if you missed getting an offer with one company, something better may be just around the corner.

So concentrate on what you can control and forget about what you can’t. If you mope around worrying about what you did or didn't do and wonder why they didn't like you or where you messed up - your attitude will bring about another negative outcome.

Look objectively at whether or not you can pinpoint something you might have done differently, and then learn from it. Otherwise, put it behind you and move forward with a confident and positive outlook!

- Judi Perkins

Judi Perkins, the How-To Career Coach, was a recruiter for 22 years, consulting with hundreds of hiring authorities throughout the hiring process. She’s seen over 500,000 resumes, knows how hiring authorities think and how they hire. As a result she understands and teaches what other coaches don’t: why the typical strategies in finding a job so often fail, what to do instead, and why. She’s been on PBS’s Frontline, will be in the May issue of Smart Money magazine, and has been quoted frequently in numerous articles for CareerBuilder, MSN Careers, Yahoo Hot Jobs, and the New York Times, among others. She’s also been featured as an expert in numerous career books. Sign up for her free newsletter at www.FindthePerfectJob.com!

From www.net-temps.com

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

5 Methods to Identify and Build Your Professional Panache

The job market is highly competitive. You need to continuously evolve and upgrade your skills to do well. Here are 5 ways to build your professional panache


1.Talk with others and do some serious soul-searching to identify and embrace your specific personal strengths. When compiling this inventory, also strive to be as honest as possible regarding areas you may be lacking. This is not to become a focal point, but only to accept the fact there are areas that could always be improved, as it is with all of us. Then put together a plan to strengthen those areas.
One thing to recognize is that as you go out to pursue your career objectives, you are selling. You are out to prove to those in your chosen field the value and unique talents and traits you possess and how you can become an invaluable asset in their operations. That means you are in control of addressing possible 'objections' before they are brought up by your client (the interviewer) and how you have taken steps to address them.


2.You have an opportunity in an interview to display your passion and commitment to your field of interest. Enthusiasm is part of what radiates confidence and will carry you through any tough, challenging times. This means you will be an asset for the long haul with any firm that chooses to bring you on-board. If you love what you are doing it will show. It is one of those intangibles that will set you apart from many.

3.Always educate yourself on the happenings in your field. The Internet now makes it possible to follow the most successful firms in your business. You can identify those things they are successfully incorporating. You will be able to keep up with the latest research and products or services that come online. As you study further, you may start to see areas that could be improved upon. Note those for future reference and work to find solutions you could offer to a prospective employer.

4.You can start networking now. Find some blogs or websites related to your business and subscribe to some newsletters and read them regularly. If there are comment areas, begin to post a few relevant observations of your own. Maybe there is something in particular that moves you. Consider writing a short article and submit it for publication. There are many blogs and article directories that are craving for fresh content.
You can start to make your presence known online and establish yourself as somewhat of an expert by using social media networks. One thing about the Internet is you never know with whom you are building a relationship with, nor who might read your postings. Any of these relatively anonymous contacts could very well open a door beyond your wildest dreams. Freely offer others assistance and provide answers on related forums. You can always use this collection as a reference to a prospective employer and build a strong case regarding your character.


5.Finally, make sure you present your best 'face' to prospective employers by enlisting the services of a professional resume-writing firm. They are trained to write your resume to meet your professional level, be it upper management or entry-level, and get you noticed. When it is all put together, you will find your interviews to be as productive as possible and help you land that perfect position.
- Heather Eagar

Administrative Assistant Needed!

Large Oil and Gas company needs an administrative assistant who is extremely proficient with their Access and Excel skills. Will be working with their Recruiting department manipulating data in their applicant tracking system. Must be highly organized, detailed, and not afraid of learning new software systems.

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Attention Senior Buyers...We are looking for you!!!

The position will report to the Procurement and Houston Office Manager. It will interact with other Buyers and support staff in Houston, corporate office personnel, overseas buyers and vendors. Duties to include: Negotiate and create Purchase Orders, and commercial... terms for: parts, materials, equipment. Manage files associated with requisitions, Purchase Orders, RFQs, and supplier documents. Verify requisition technical specifications, clarify discrepancies, identify vendors, prepare and circulate RFQs to selected vendors, evaluate vendor proposals, negotiate terms, approve and obtain final authority for execution of purchase and delivery terms. Oversee vendor performance, track status of order from inception to delivery. Advise and counsel internal clients on status of requisition. Ideal candidate must have the following qualities: Results oriented, takes ownership in responsibilities, hard working, creative but practical thinker, strongly analytical, committed to succeed, positive attitude, team oriented, and be a persuasive communicator. Knowledge/Skills/Competencies: At least 5 years experience in Procurement with experience contracting of Oil Services such as: drilling, rigs, fluids, wireline logging, directional drilling, bits, well testing etc. Must have excellent communication skills in Spanish and English and through different cultures in countries such as Angola, Colombia, and Venezuela. Requires the ability to read, comprehend and analyze Request for Quotes, Quotes and Purchase Orders. Must have the ability to travel (not in the short term) Education: College degree preferred. Supply Chain or Procurement formation is a plus. Communication skills in Portuguese is a plus.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Two Old Ways to Find a New Job

You think it’s tough to find a job now?

It’s been tougher.

Like in the Great Depression of the 1930s, for example.

Try to imagine a world without Twitter or Facebook, when the unemployment rate ranged from 14.3% to 24.9% (1931 to 1938).

Would you be interested in learning two ways to find that worked back then -- and still work now?

Here they are …


1.Appeal to the self-interest of the employer
In the book, "Pick Your Job And Land It!" published in 1938, the authors, S.W. and M.G. Edlund, share the story of one job seeker, Barrett Havens, who put together a seemingly flawless written portfolio of his accomplishments, one that had produced several interviews for the position of manufacturing manager.

Yet Havens received no job offers.

So the Edlunds suggested that in his next job interview, Havens should ask smart questions of the employer: How had they been able to navigate seasonal slumps? How did they develop new products? How did they get help from retailers in selling their products?

By asking questions, Havens would start conversations based on the employer's interests, could tell of similar problems he had solved, and then refer to his written examples to back up his claims.

The results were dramatic -- within one week, Havens had an interview with an employer who was so enthralled with his questions that he cancelled lunch and his afternoon appointments so he could continue talking. (When's the last time an employer missed a meal to listen to you?)

Your takeaway lesson: When you realize that no employer wants to hire you and that every employer has problems to solve, you can start to appeal to their self-interests. How? By discovering their problems and proposing solutions. All you need do is start asking questions.


2.Look outside to find your hidden assets
Among the other examples in "Pick Your Job And Land It!" of people who found work in the Depression is that of John Shaffer. According to the authors, Shaffer didn’t seem to have any assets besides a pair of hands.

Despite a college degree, Shaffer thought the only jobs available to him would be like the retail clerk and food merchandising positions he had held after college.

(A college grad who felt doomed to a life of dead-end jobs. Hmm. Know anybody like that?)

However, after thoroughly analyzing his work history with friends and business acquaintances, “[Shaffer] began to appreciate that his two jobs had been full of unusual opportunities. He began to see the fundamentals underlying his experience and to realize he had gained an insight into selling problems which would be of value to other firms,” write the authors.

In the retail job, Shaffer “had observed the effect of advertising, merchandising, and counter display on the sales of high-grade merchandise,” according to the authors, while at the food manufacturer, he had seen how advertising had greatly improved product sales.

After analyzing his experience, Shaffer realized that his work had exposed him to effective marketing that went beyond the job titles of “clerk” or “merchandiser.” As a result, Shaffer was able to retell the story of his employment in a way that interested employers -- and got him a better, higher-paying job.

Here are the key paragraphs from his winning cover letter, written circa 1936:

“During the past two and a half years I have been with a large food concern marketing a staple food product in a highly competitive field. At first, this was sold primarily on a price appeal. Then followed a comprehensive advertising and point of sale program designed to enable the retailer to maintain price and so increase profits. As a result, I have seen the sales curve of this company rise steadily.

“My particular job, which I sill hold, has been to contact several thousand dealers in Manhattan, put up display material, and establish good will by merchandising the consumer advertising and price policy.

“Prior to this I spent six months with Strauch’s, where I observed how advertising and display, coupled with keen sales psychology, effectively moved quality merchandise ….”

Your takeaway lesson: What success stories have you observed in past jobs that could help future employers? Note that verb -- observed. Anyone can learn by watching, if they’re looking for lessons. What have you learned?

Now. This is where you need outside help.

Simply put, you WILL underestimate the value of your experience if you analyze it yourself -- it’s like trying to describe the back of your head without a mirror.

Get a mirror, or, in this case, get a friend or three who will sit down over coffee and ask you about exactly what you’ve observed and what you’ve learned in every job you’ve held.

Then, write it all on paper, as specifically and extensively as possible.

When you do this, you’ll unearth hidden assets that can appeal to employers. Doing so got people hired in the Great Depression, when unemployment ran as high as 24.9%. And it can get you hired now, when the job market isn’t half as bad.

- Kevin Donlin

Kevin Donlin is co-author of Guerrilla Resumes. Since 1996, he has provided job-search help to more than 20,000 people. Kevin has been interviewed by The New York Times, USA Today, Fox News, ABC TV, CBS Radio and others. Learn more about Guerrilla Resumes

copyright (c) 2010 by Kevin Donlin

From www.net-temps.com

Friday, July 23, 2010

Bilingual Spanish JR Loan Analyst

Loan Analyst is needed for this growing financial organization located in the Galleria Area. Must have an accounting/analyst background, Some experience in loan operations and servicing, understanding of Loan Structures and payment and delivery, able to calculate Interest rates, and strong MS Office skills. This position will be reviewing and analyzing loans, reading term and conditions, determining risk factors, and identifying financial stability.

Thursday, July 22, 2010

How to Describe Yourself in an Interview

There you are dressed your best and being interviewed for the job of your dreams and the dreaded question gets asked, ‘Describe yourself for me.’ This question is almost always asked by perspective employers and almost always answered with a resounding uuuuuh… Knowing how to describe yourself in an interview can mean the difference of landing your dream job or going back to the want ads.

It helps if you come to grips with the fact that this question will be asked and you prepare for it ahead of time, but be careful that you don’t some off sounding like you memorized a script the night before. When getting ready to describe yourself in an interview you should consider the following:


•Don’t tell them what they already know: Don’t start out with your name and age, they have that on the application and repeating it sort of makes you sound silly. Instead of saying where you went to school –also on the application- tell the interviewer what you got out of your schooling or who influenced you along the way. Get into any activities or hobbies you have that may not be listed on the application. This is your time to let the interviewer know everything about you that is not on the application already.

•Give your strengths AND your weaknesses: First off all when giving your strengths, never come off too cocky. Be proud, but be careful not to toot your own horn too loudly as this can be a major turn-off to the interviewer. Besides giving what your strengths are, also mention your weaknesses, but do it in a way that makes you look good. ‘I have no patience for those that do not want to go the extra mile to help a co-worker,’ or ‘A big fault of mine is that I tend to pay too much attention to detail when it may not be needed.’ Statements such as those show the interviewer that you don’t think you are perfect, but that your faults are good ones to have.

•Be honest: This is most important of all. If you are not being honest many prospective employers can see right through your bologna and besides, you are who you are. If the job isn’t meant to be, then that is life. Never pretend to be somebody you are not.

•Speak clearly and don’t stammer: This goes back to the whole practice thing. If you are constantly stammering or saying ‘uh’ then you give off the impression that you are searching for words to say. This gives a bad vibe off because if you don’t know who you are, then who really does?
While there are no magic words to speak that will guarantee you a job, you should be prepared to adequately describe yourself at an interview. Again, you know the question is coming, so you may as well prepare for it. A good trick is to stand in front of the mirror and interview yourself. Ask yourself the question and answer the question. Would you hire yourself? If the answer is no, then chances are neither will the prospective employer, so keep practicing until the answer is yes.

Learn more interview tips at JobGoRound, the career advice and resume service website.

- Jason Kay

Jason Kay is a professional resume writer and regular contributor to JobGoRound.com, which provides job search tips, interview advice, and resume service reviews.

From www.net-temps.com

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Do Your Detective Work - Before the Interview!

© Written By Jimmy Sweeney President of CareerJimmy and Author of the new, Job Interview "Secret"

You know what kind of job you want. A sales associate. An office manager. A legal secretary.

Whichever position suits your personality and skills, you'll have a better chance of landing it if you do a little detective work––before the interview. Learn as much as you can about the company, its goals, as well as products and services. Then during the interview, you'll be ready to ask good questions, and to show how and why you're ideal for the job.

How To Research


1.Visit the company's web site to find out about its day-to-day business, employee benefits, mission statement, and customer service.

2.Consult the Thomas Register of American Manufacturers or other source at your public library to be sure the firm has a solid reputation.

3.Make a list of items you're interested in learning more about, including: history, financial stability, plans for growth.

4.Call the personnel department and ask for a brochure and other material that will help you decide whether this is the right company for you.

5.Read magazines such as Fortune, Business Week, and Wall Street Journal to learn more about the organization.

6.Google the company, look for job seeker forums and posts to get a feel for a particular business.
Take Care of Yourself

The more you know ahead of time, the better you'll feel before, during, and after the interview. And think about what a boost you'll give the interviewer. People who are prepared, peaceful, and professional are those most likely to win the job. So do your detective work and you'll be among them!

- Jimmy Sweeney

Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new "Secret Career Document" job landing system. Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and writes a monthly article titled, "Job Search Secrets." Visit our friends at Job Interview "Secret" and discover Jimmy Sweeney's breakthrough strategy that will have you standing out from the competition like a Harvard graduate at a local job fair… DURING your next job interview.

From www.net-temps.com

Histotechnologist Needed!!!

Performs technical duties related to production of histolopathological slides. Researches, troubleshoots, and resolves histology related inquiries and problems within the laboratory. Administrative: Answer telephones, maintain logs/records, organizational skills, proficiency with numbers, research information, time management, train employees, use computerized databases, written and verbal communications. Licensed HT with an ability to cut. Bachelors degree.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Logistics Freight Payment Administrator Needed!

Work for one of the world's most successful companies. Temp is needed to pull invoice images from our freight pay system and recording origin / destination data into spreadsheet. Provided populated data back to freight pay provider to update in their database. Assisted coordinator on calls and on clean-up activities with field locations. Requirements: intermediate Excel, accuracy in data entry. This position is located near IAH airport. Schedule is Mon-Fri 8-5.

Monday, July 19, 2010

20 Powerful Action Verbs to Kick Your Resume Up a Notch!

June 29, 2010 by sparktalk
By CAREEREALISM-Approved Expert, Jessica Holbrook Hernandez

Every resume should have strong action verbs strategically placed throughout—most importantly, at the beginning of the majority of your bullet points and accomplishment-based statements. Please do yourself —and every hiring manager out there—a favor; do not start your sentences with: Responsible for…Worked with…or any other opening that lacks power and punch.
These really do nothing for your resume or experience except hurt it. Hiring managers are not exactly captivated by the phrases, ‘responsible for’ or ‘worked with’. They are just so boring and repetitive—and it’s because just about every job seeker out there uses them. Hiring managers want—need—words that jump off the page and captivate them. Here are a few examples of my favorite action words:

Captivated
Championed
Directed
Exceeded
Pioneered
Formulated
Generated
Intensified
Leveraged
Masterminded
Maximized
Mentored
Optimized
Orchestrated
Re-engineered
Spearheaded
Structured
Proliferate
Recaptured
Rejuvenated

Enjoying this article? You could get the best career advice daily by subscribing to us via e-mail.

Truthfully, the list could go on. Don’t believe me? Use the synonym feature in Microsoft Word or go to www.thesaurus.com. Be creative in your action verb choice, and choose strong words that convey ACTION to begin every sentence. These words communicate action, results, accomplishments, and contributions—which are all key components in creating a powerful and captivating resume.

CAREEREALISM Expert, Jessica Holbrook Hernandez, CEO of Great Resumes Fast is an expert resume writer, career and personal branding strategist, author, and presenter. She has written hundreds of articles that are featured on some of the best career advice Web sites today. In addition, her writing has been included in Launch Pad, a career search strategy guide featuring exclusive information by the top career experts in the industry. Follow her on Twitter and LinkedIn.

From www.careerrealism.com

Friday, July 16, 2010

Accounting Associate - Excel Expert!!!

Accounting Associate will provide financial and administrative support to this local non-profit organization. This position is responsible for preparing timely and accurate financial data as well as accounts payable processing. Additionally, accounts payable, reconciliation, financial reporting and recording entries. Requires a minimum of 2 years bookkeeping/ accounting experience with some college preferred, strong Excel (Macros). Experience working in the banking or investment industry is highly preferred!

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Calling all Teachers/Educators!

Data Collectors needed for upcoming research project. Utilize your educational training and expertise to assist in upcoming research project to occur in various HISD schools during the upcoming school year. Will maintain and collect data for educational research by conducting classroom observations and teacher interviews. Interact directly with educators, teachers and school staff. Prepare materials after observation for data entry including required documentation and ensure compliant with project standards. Participate in weekly conference calls with local and national project managers. Participate in initial and follow up training sessions. Provide statements for reimbursements in a timely manner. Long term temporary position.

50 Quick Interview Tips

1.Identify your accomplishments before you go on an interview.
2.Don’t let your guard down. No matter how friendly the interviewer is, you must always remember that she/he is not your friend.
3.Answer the interviewer’s questions in a direct and concise manner.
4.Identify your needs and match them to the needs of an employer.
5.Dress in a manner that your position calls for.
6.Maintain direct eye contact with the interviewer; this will show that you are confident in your abilities and that you have nothing to hide.
7.Don’t bring up salary first.
8.Develop questions of your own that demonstrate your interest and knowledge in working with the company.
9.Send a thank-you letter to all individuals with whom you interviewed.
10.Be aware of your language. Avoid vocal fillers such as “like” or “um”.
11.Answer questions within 60 seconds or you will lose your listener.
12.Ask for a copy of the job description.
13.Make sure that you show interest in and enthusiasm for working for the employer.
14.Be prepared, but don’t sound rehearsed.
15.Expect to answer the question, “Tell me about yourself.”
16.Be aware of the interviewer’s body language and adapt yours to match hers.
17.Give yourself 24 hours before you accept or decline a position.
18.Remember that you are interviewing the company as well.
19.Before the interview ends, ask if you should clarify or elaborate on any points.
20.Be prepared to expand on the information you provided in the resume.
21.Always show up on time.
22.Be as honest as you can without hindering your chances of landing a job offer.
23.When filling out a job application, make sure you read and follow the instructions carefully.
24.Thank the interviewer for his time.
25.Attend an interview workshop, read a book on interviewing, or hire a coach to guide you through the process.
26.Listen carefully to the questions that are being asked and try to determine their hidden meaning.
27.Ask for the interviewer’s business card so that you will have the proper spelling of his or her name as well as job title, address, and phone number.
28.No matter how great you were during the interview, continue your job search until you have accepted a job offer.
29.Bring your social security card, working papers (if applicable), and driver’s license or state ID to every interview.
30.Maintain a positive and upbeat demeanor; never let them see you sweat.
31.Answer the question that is being asked; don’t go off on tangents.
32.Be aware of your tone and body language.
33.Establish rapport with the interviewer.
34.Don’t interrupt the interviewer when she is speaking.
35.Don’t hog the interview with your agenda.
36.Be patient during the interview process. You may be asked to attend more than one interview before a job offer is put on the table.
37.Expect to be nervous.
38.Don’t overstay your welcome; recognize cues that the interview is coming to an end.
39.At the end of the interview, ask the interviewer what the next step will be.
40.If you get the impression that the interview is not going as planned, don’t show your disappointment; remain calm.
41.The purpose of the first interview is not to get a job offer; it is to be invited to a second interview.
42.Know the organization’s needs and culture before the interview.
43.Be yourself.
44.Don’t speak negatively about your present or past employer.
45.Wait until you are offered a seat before you sit down.
46.Interact with the interviewer; don’t react.
47.Pace yourself; if you need extra time to think of an answer, take it.
48.Write down your thoughts and impressions of the interview immediately after it is over.
49.At the end of the interview, make sure you ask for the job.
50.Allow sufficient time between interviews.
- Linda Matias

Certified in all three areas of the job search—Certified Interview Coach ™ (CIC), Job & Career Transition Coach (JCTC), and Nationally Certified Resume Writer (NCRW)—Linda Matias is qualified to assist you in your career transition, whether it be a complete career makeover, interview preparation, or resume assistance. She is also the author of How to Say It: Job Interviews (Prentice Hall Press) which can be found at Amazon.com or your local bookstore. You can contact Linda Matias at linda@careerstrides.com or visit her website www.careerstrides.com for additional career advice and to view resume samples or go to www.job-interview-advice.net.

From www.net-temps.com

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Technical Writer in Marketing Department Needed

The role of the Marketing Coordinator/Technical Writer is to support the Business Development Team and Client Service Managers with duties related to project pursuit and strategic marketing initiatives. The Marketing Coordinator/Technical Writer will be detail-oriented and comfortable performing in a deadline-oriented environment specifically responsible for the following: Writing proposals and presentations; Writing and editing technical papers for publication and presentation; Coordination of day-to-day graphics support including artwork development and proofreading; Maintaining and improving business development and marketing databases related to internal and external clients; Researching, monitoring, and reporting business opportunities and market performance indicators; Assist with client assignments, tracking, and follow-up; and Coordinating marketing efforts with technical staff and marketing team members. Candidates should have a degree in Journalism, English, Marketing or related field and 7+ year of professional experience. Proficiency in MS Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook; understanding of desktop publishing preferred and database development and maintenance. Strong verbal and written communication skills and a service and client related personality.

For more information, please email to info@executeam.com

Monday, July 12, 2010

How to Make Your Job Search Fun

If you're looking for a job, here's an odd question: How much fun are you having?

Not much?

Well, you might want to change that.

This is the advice of former Minnesota Viking Fran Tarkenton, who suggests you try to find the fun in every task: "If it's not fun, you're not doing it right," he says.

Wouldn't it be nice if you were as motivated to write your resume tomorrow as you were to play Little League or skip rope as a child?

While I can't promise to make it as much fun as a trip to Disney World, there are ways to make job hunting more enjoyable by making it more like a game.

In fact, here are 6 ways to do it ...


1.Use a Scoreboard
Grab a whiteboard, bulletin board, or a large piece for paper.

Then, start "keeping score" of your vital job-search activities, such as networking calls and jobs you've applied for.

Think baseball here. Score every voicemail you leave as a single, a phone conversation as a double, a networking meeting as a triple, and a job interview -- that's a home run. (What will your double plays be? Stolen bases? Walks?)

Remember the advice of top sports agent and author, Mark McCormack: "When the day is done, make one more phone call." Then score it.


2.Become Your Own Agent
Speaking of sports agents, almost all pro athletes -- the people who get paid to play games -- have one.

Why not become your own agent? Then you can have some fun with the two most-important things any agent does: promotion and salary negotiation.

First, to promote yourself, join Toastmasters. There you'll meet local movers and shakers with connections to hiring managers. And you'll polish your communications skills in the process, something that can only make you more employable.

Another way to promote yourself is to start a blog. Then, promote your blog -- which promotes you! -- via Twitter, Linkedin, and Facebook, and by posting intelligent comments on the high-traffic blogs of others.

Second, every agent must know how to negotiate. Do you? Your local library and bookstore are full of books on interviewing and salary negotiations. If you haven't read at least one book on the subject in the last 30 days, get going -- today.


3.Join a Team
There's nothing like the camaraderie of playing with others against an opponent. It probably dates back to the first team of cavemen who brought down a mastodon.

Why not inject some teamwork into your job search? Simply get on the phone and start "drafting" like-minded people to join your team. Can't find three or more people to build a team? Visit area job clubs and join them.

The important thing is to team up with folks whose company you enjoy, and leave the negative people to themselves.


4.Keep Stats
How could you measure your performance, like a batting average or a quarterback's passer rating?

I suggest you track the following numbers each week: networking phone calls, resumes sent by email, resumes sent by snail mail, people added to your network, networking meetings attended, and job interviews.


5.Start Competing
Every game is a competition -- that's part of the fun. How can you compete against yourself and/or others to find a job faster?

For example, if your neighbor John had a job interview last week, how could you schedule two interviews this week and "beat" him? (Never letting him know, of course!)

Who among your friends has an excellent blog or attractive resume, and how could you set about "beating" their efforts, one step at a time?


6.Celebrate Your Wins
Don't forget to celebrate the "wins" in your job search. The bigger the victory, the bigger the festivities should be, right up to and including champagne when you get your new job.

Example celebrations: a cup of mocha or a walk in the park this afternoon if you schedule a networking meeting this morning; a cigar or bottle of wine for every job interview, etc.

For this and the other elements of the job-search "game," you're limited only by your imagination. Still stumped? Ask a five-year-old. Seriously. They're experts on fun.

Remember: More fun leads to more self-motivation, which leads to faster results -- and faster employment.

- Kevin Donlin

Kevin Donlin is co-author of Guerrilla Resumes. Since 1996, he has provided job-search help to more than 20,000 people. Kevin has been interviewed by The New York Times, USA Today, Fox News, ABC TV, CBS Radio and others. Learn more about Guerrilla Resumes

copyright (c) 2010 by Kevin Donlin

From www.net-temps.com

Friday, July 9, 2010

Tweet This, Not That

Social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook allow people to communicate more loosely, but many companies are tightening their grip on how employees use these channels at work. Thirty-eight percent of chief informationofficers (CIOs) polled in a Robert Half Technology survey have implemented stricter social networking policies, more than twice the number (17%) who say they have relaxed the rules.

A larger percentage (23%) of technology executives are tightening the reins on personal use of social media than are placing limits on social media use for business (15%). A previous study found that 55% of companies have social networking policies that ban the use of social networking altogether.

"The challenge for companies is balancing the benefits of social media in the workplace with the risks," comments Dave Willmer, executive director of Robert Half Technology. "Firms are evaluating how to help employees use social networks to keep pace with developments in their industries, stay connected with business contacts and promote their organizations without sacrificing information security or employee productivity."

Role of Administrative Professionals Expanding
Administrative professionals are moving beyond their traditional roles to take on responsibilities in such areas as cost control, technology/the use of social media, hiring and corporate social responsibility, an OfficeTeam survey reveals.

Key findings:

Sixty-three percent of administrative professionals have assisted in hiring other support staff at their teams.
Fifty-five percent of administrative professionals have managed volunteer activities for their employers.
Forty-seven percent of administrative professionals have coordinated fundraisers for nonprofit organizations at work.
Half of managers indicated that support staff play a role in helping their firms reduce spending.
Forty-four percent of support staff use social media for professional reasons, but only 22% promote their companies' products or services with these tools.
Thirty-two percent of supervisors said they have turned to administrative personnel for help with technology.
Thirty percent of administrative professionals have been tapped to assist with environmental initiatives.
"Administrative professionals are doing more than ever to help companies cope with business challenges, playing an instrumental role in their organizations' recovery and growth efforts," comments OfficeTeam executive director Robert Hosking. "Managers may be overlooking a valuable resource if they aren't tapping support staff to take on new projects."

Financial Services Execs Must Improve Teamwork
The financial services industry wants its senior-level executives to sharpen their team-building skills more than other capabilities, while pharmaceutical/biotech and healthcare industries say their top-level executives most need to improve their leadership abilities, according to a survey by outplacement and executive coaching firm ClearRock.

"Financial services is one of the industries that has been affected the most by the recession, and has made among the deepest workforce cutbacks. Financial services companies want their top executives to be able to pull together those who have survived the layoffs and downsizings, motivate them, and move them forward by building teamwork," comments Annie Stevens, managing partner for ClearRock.

The survey found:

The top three skills that financial services senior-level executives need to improve are team building, leadership and strategic thinking.
Pharmaceutical/biotech senior-level executives need to sharpen their leadership, communication and employee engagement skills.
Healthcare industry senior-level executives should work on their leadership, communication and employee engagement skills.

From www.staffingindustry.com
Issue Date: Staffing Industry Review Magazine
July 2010 Issue, Posted On: 6/30/2010


Last Words, SI Review July 2010

Friday, July 2, 2010

5 Subliminal Tips That Make You The Most Desirable Candidate For Any Job

Although we all know it’s important to try to look your best for an interview, unless the job you’re after is a modeling gig, you’re not going to get it based solely on how you look. Yes, you need to pay attention to what you’re wearing and not show up right after your last workout session without bothering to change, but you also need to know how to mesmerize potential employers with your intriguing personality.

Making sure you make a good impression is the number one factor in scoring you the job you’re after and that all starts at the initial interview. Here, five easy and sure-fire ways to ensure that you’re at the top of their list for the job:


1.Eye Contact, eye contact, eye contact!
If there’s only one rule that you follow, let this be it. When you look someone in the eye, you convey confidence, reliability and good listening skills- all qualities that employers are after.

Looking your interviewer in the eye shows that you’re truly interested in the job and what they have to say and that you’re really paying attention. Of course you don’t want to stare at them so much that you creep them out, but you do want to maintain eye contact when they’re talking to you to show you’re listening and to show that you mean business when you’re answering a question.

This means that about 70% of the time, you should be intently and confidently looking your interviewer in the eye.


2.Don’t be a slouch.
You want to show up looking polished, capable and confident. Hunching over when you sit or stand doesn’t exactly convey these types of qualities to a potential employer. Would you hire the Hunchback of Notre Dame? Of course they can’t discriminate, but if you’re an able-bodied person, there’s no reason that you shouldn’t have good posture.

This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t “lean” when the interviewer is speaking to you about something of interest (or something you want to appear to be interested in). Leaning is a part of body language so this is fine, just don’t slouch over like you don’t care or lean back like you’re arrogant.

And when you speak, sit up straight to keep that confident and capable vibe going strong.


3.Nod like you mean it.
You don’t want to come across like a bobble head, but a little nodding as the interviewer is speaking conveys that you’re listening or agreeing with what they’re saying. They notice this kind of thing, and they like it. It says that you are confident and that you share the same types of ideals and work values. Make sure you’re nodding at appropriate times and don’t nod when you don’t agree with something because they’ll remember that too. You want your nod to appear natural. You’re so engrossed in the conversation that you’re intrigued… and inclined to nod your head.


4.Don’t forget to smile!
Smiling, again, conveys confidence (are you sensing a theme here?) and is also a way to show what a warm, inviting personality you have.

People who never smile usually come across as more dull than those that like to flash those pearly whites regularly. Smiling makes you seem more engaging, positive and energetic.

Just don’t overdo it- you want it to appear genuine and easy going. And make sure you don’t have anything in your teeth! You don’t want to make them cringe ever time you smile, you want to make them smile back.


5.Get a little close.
You don’t want to invade their personal space or anything, but standing a little close to someone establishes a comfort level and makes it easier to create a rapport. If you stand too far away, you don’t appear to be all that interested in the discussion at hand, or in this case, the job on the line.

You have to tread carefully here though. Some people will feel like you’re being pushy or overwhelming if you get too close, so you kind of need to gauge their reaction to your proximity. If they step back, follow suit and don’t try that again!

These are just a few body language moves that are sure to help you charm the socks off of any interviewer. Of course you have to actually have the skills necessary to do the job as well, but if you follow these tips, you’re sure to stick out in their mind as one of the top candidates!

- Landon Long

Landon Long is the founder of InterviewMastermind.com and author of the Unspoken Rules of Getting Hired. Landon is also a recognized expert on the topic of psychology-based job interview tips for job seekers all over the world. If you are jobless and can't figure out how to write a resume no matter how hard you try, here is the secret that's helped over 20,000 job seekers! Watch your FREE VIDEO right now at InterviewMastermind.com

From www.net-temps.com