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Not Sure About College? 3 Ways to Further Your Education

By shannon on Tuesday, July 28, 2009

GuyWLaptop As the next school year approaches, many are talking about whether or not to return to school. Some are considering another bachelor’s degree or even a master’s degree to land a better job, get ahead at work, or even change careers. But, that’s not the only way to go. If you’re thinking about going back to school this fall, check out these three different ways to continue your education without hitting the books in a university setting.

Vocational School

If you’re interested in learning a new trade or switching careers, check out the vocational schools in your area. These schools offer specific training and first-hand experience for a variety of occupations, including electricians, culinary artists, and emergency medical technicians. Plus, many classes are offered in the evenings or on a short-track, making it more convenient for working adults to complete the coursework over an abbreviated time period.

Online Courses

If you have Internet access and are fairly self-disciplined, consider registering for an online class or two. Many universities and technical schools offer a wide variety of online classes, whether you want to learn another language, improve your computer skills, or increase your knowledge about an industry. These courses are great for individuals who need a flexible schedule to complete their coursework.

DIY Learning

Studying on your own gives you the most flexibility with your schedule and the materials you cover, but you have to create your own regime. If this is your preference, start by checking out your local library, industry- or topic-specific magazines, and online publications to find credible information on subjects that you’re most interested in. Then, simply begin reading. Also, look for workshops, seminars, and training courses at little to no charge in your community through civic organizations, libraries, churches, and professional associations. You may not gain a degree or certification, but at least you’ll be able to stay up to date on the latest news for your occupation and industry.

Continuing your education doesn’t have to be a daunting task or limited to a higher-education degree. By focusing on your goal and considering your options, you can quickly be on your way to furthering your knowledge and enhancing your career, whether you choose to go back to school, take a few online courses, or study on your own.

Top 10 Job Search Tips of All Time

By shannon on Tuesday, July 14, 2009

A successful job search is definitely not easy. First, you have to find a job you’re interested in. Next, you have to apply and wait for an invitation to interview. After that, you have to prepare for the interview, and then you have to follow up. And, that’s just the basics – there are many more small steps along the way that make things complicated and sometimes overwhelming. So, we put together our top 10 job search tips of all time – to keep you from forgetting an important step along the way.

1. Broaden your job search

2. Build a network

3. Write a top-notch résumé

4. Submit a cover letter with your résumé, every time

5. Research your potential employer’s company

6. Practice answering common interview questions

7. Prepare to ask the interviewer questions

8. Be sure to dress for success

9. Bring the proper items to an interview

10. Follow up after an interview

Landing the job you want takes time and effort. Rarely does the perfect opportunity just fall in your lap. But, you can make your job search process simpler by following these top 10 tips of all time.

Tell us what you think – did we miss one? Share your job search tips in the comments section below. We’d love to hear from you.

At Work Cube Life The Daily Grind

Struggling to Find Inspiration to Make it Through Your Workday? 4 Places to Look

By shannon on Wednesday, June 24, 2009

If you find yourself in the same work environment day after day, year after year, you might start to feel drained physically, mentally, and emotionally. You may even become apathetic, causing your creativity to drop. Then, your work might begin to suffer. Suddenly, just getting through the workday can be challenging. If you’re one of many workers struggling to find motivation to get through your workday, discover your inspiration and revive your passion through one of these four avenues.

Environment

Sometimes, simply changing your environment can give you a new perspective on your job. If you’re able to take your work with you, ask your supervisor if you can work outside for a short time, work in a different area of the building, or possibly even work from home for a day. Work not portable? Use your lunch break to get outside, take a walk, and enjoy the different scenery.

People

Do you know someone who always makes you laugh, makes you feel better about your situation, or shares words of encouragement? Check in with those friends, family members, and co-workers when you need a pick-me-up during the workday. Consider writing down some of their encouraging words on note cards and posting them in your workspace to view throughout the day. Want to hear someone else’s view on the world? Talk to a child you know. They’ll be sure to make you laugh and appreciate the smaller things in life.

Art

Whether your favorite type of art comes in the form of photography, paintings, music, poetry, or novels, surrounding yourself with the art of your choice can provide new inspiration to help you reach your goals at work and at home. Not sure where to look? Hang a print of some art that brings you joy. Inspiration is sure to follow when you are surrounded by things you love.

Dreams

Sometimes, inspiration comes from dreaming of what may come. So, don’t be afraid to dream big and look toward the future to find your inspiration. Whether you’re motivated by striving for the VP’s chair or simply want to earn a raise to buy the car you’ve been eyeing, dreaming can supply the power you need to make it through the workday.

You’ve probably experienced at least a day here or there when you’ve struggled to stay on task at work, making your day seem endless. But, if you concentrate on what brings you motivation, you’ll soon be right back where you need to be – inspired to get the job done and done well.

Job Interviews The Job Search

6 Things to Bring to an Interview

By shannon on Monday, June 8, 2009

As you prepare for an interview, you might be thinking about what you’re going to wear, what you’re going to say, and how you’d love to land the job. But, have you thought about what you need to bring? Before you head out the door for your next interview, make sure you have these six things in hand.

Good attitude.

Many employers hire attitude over skills, so it’s imperative that you bring a good attitude to every interview. If you’re pessimistic during the meeting, potential employers might fear that this attitude will carry over into the workplace.

Copies of your résumé.

Even though you already submitted your résumé to your potential employer, bring a few extra copies printed on nice résumé paper just in case you need one. You never know – another person other than the interviewer might want to sit it on your interview, or the interviewer might request another copy for their records.

Knowledge of the company and position.

Before any interview, make sure you’re knowledgeable about the company and the position you’re applying for. If you’re unprepared, employers will notice and think you’re apathetic about the job itself, a quality that may translate into laziness in the workplace.

Portfolio.

Depending on your type of work, you might have examples of your previous projects or tasks. If so, make sure to bring a few samples with you to demonstrate – not just talk about – your skills, from design work to writing.

Copies of your reference list.

Take a couple copies of your reference list printed on nice paper just in case the interviewer requests this information from you. If they don’t request it, make sure you offer to leave a copy behind.

Manners.

Displaying appropriate manners shows you’re courteous of others and that you respect authority. Be sure to say “please” and “thank you” at the appropriate times before, during, and after your interview. Also, make sure not to chew gum, roll your eyes, or talk bad about your former employers.

Acing any interview takes more than wearing the right clothes, saying the right things, and having the right connections. So, make sure to take your interview preparation to the next level, and bring these six things with you every time.

Need more help preparing for an interview? Check out these posts:

Responding to the Top 7 Interview Questions
5 Things Not to Say in a Job Interview
4 Job Interview Musts
Ace the Interview by Asking Great Questions
3 Interview Mistakes to Avoid

The Job Search

Where to Find Hot Summer Jobs

By shannon on Friday, May 22, 2009

Summertime is a great season to pick up a second job or work a temporary gig. Every summer season, there are many positions available other than fast food and retail jobs. You just have to know where to look. So, if you’re out of school, between employment, or just looking to pick up some extra cash, make sure to check out these hot summer job opportunities in your community.

Work Outside

Many cities have a local parks and recreation department that’s responsible for community pools, golf courses, and other activities. Parks and recreation positions are available seasonally to job seekers who want to enjoy the sun and heat of the summer. Check out your local parks and recreation website to find employment opportunities for positions like:

Lifeguards
Pool help, such as selling snacks or accessories
Golf course attendees and golf cart drivers
Ballpark concession stand workers
Sports umpires and referees
Park maintenance and security

Work with Children

Many children who are out of school for the summer participate in summer activities like sports or need a baby-sitter while their parents are at work. So, if you’re interested in working with children this summer, check out these seasonal jobs:

Daytime camp counselor
Tutor
Baby-sitter or nanny
Class instructor, such as arts and crafts or sports instruction
Summer school assistant

If your schedule allows, getting a summer job can be a great way to build your résumé, earn income, and even make friends while still having fun in the sun. The possibilities of summertime employment are already growing, so find the job that’s right for you – whether you’re looking to improve your job skills or just get a tan.

Cube Life The Daily Grind Workplace Relationships

Struggling with Workplace Change? 3 Methods to Survive the Madness

By shannon on Monday, April 27, 2009

If you’ve ever experienced change in the workplace, you know that whether the change is for better or for worse, there’s bound to be a rough patch in the middle while everyone adjusts. Tensions increase, stress levels rise, and work piles on. Much is often out of your control, but at least you can focus on three things to smooth the transition.

Attitude – Your actions are directly derived from your attitude, so focus on keeping it positive when changes happen at work. Think of something that makes you smile, whether it’s your family, the pleasant spring weather, or the thought that the changes will soon subside. Your optimism will positively reflect in your decisions and behaviors – and others will notice.

Productivity – Make a task list, set aside a block of time, or ask for help – do whatever it takes to keep your productivity high. If you can, concentrate on completing your own projects before taking on new responsibilities or offering to help others. Then, you won’t be stretching yourself too thin. Taking on an overwhelming workload can be a burden to your entire team – especially if it means you’re only able to do all of your projects halfway.

Relationships – Conflict can arise when you’re in the same environment with the same people for forty hours a week in the midst of the tension change brings. To keep your relationships strong, remember not to take your frustrations out on your co-workers. Realize they’re stressed, too, so be sympathetic to them. Don’t let them run you over with their words or actions, but remember that how people deal with stress differs. Remain professional, and don’t take things too personally.

The next time you experience change in the workplace, keep these three things in mind to cope – and make things feel less stressful.

Have you experienced workplace change? How did it affect you? Let us know in the comments section below.

Reader Surveys The Daily Grind Work/Life Balance

Mandatory Days Off Without Pay – Vacation or Layoff?

By shannon on Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Current economic conditions are affecting everyone and forcing some companies to make tough decisions regarding their employees. While a number of companies have had no choice but to lay off their staff or make drastic budget cuts in recent months, other companies have explored unique options to retain their employees while still trying to keep their businesses alive.

Some companies have begun instituting furloughs. According to Wikipedia, a furlough is a temporary leave of absence from employment, whether voluntary or involuntary. Other businesses have resorted to mandatory furloughs, requiring employees to take off a certain number of days per month or year – without pay – to avoid laying off their employees.

If your company chose to institute mandatory unpaid furlough days, would you be grateful that you still had a job and take the opportunity to do something for yourself during your time off? Or would you be frustrated that you were forced to take unpaid vacation days? Let us know by voting in our poll below.

poll by twiigs.com