Jobs Search

Job loss is disruptive and tragic. Finding a job is uncomfortable and riddled with rejection. In a previous edition of Dick Bolles, "What Color is Your Parachute?", he included a page with "no" written all over it, and at the end of the page the single word "yes". His point? Rejection is part of the job search process. Dealing with the rejection can take its toll on you emotionally and physically.

Recently, a panel of three counseling experts spoke to a group of career professionals on the subject of dealing with an extended job search. They gave great advice from a counseling perspective and great resources - which I have included at the end of this article.

Depression

The first step is to determine if you are showing symptoms of depression. In David Burns book, Feeling Good, he has included a short depression test. If you are depressed, it is something to get treated quickly. It will not only show up in your daily life, but it will also show during the job search process or worse - in the interview. Depression could wreck your entire job search.

Balance

A few years ago a young man went into a mall in North Dakota and started shooting. Earlier that day he had been fired from his job. A 60-year old man who found out he was going to be laid off from NASA walked into his bosses office and shot his boss and then himself. We hear these kind of stories all too frequently. These people have wrapped their entire life to their work. When their job is yanked out from under them, their unbalanced lives topple. Desperation kicks in.

Work is just one aspect of your life. THERE IS MORE TO LIFE THAN YOUR JOB. Family, professional development, recreation, friends, your spiritual outlet, etc. lead to a well rounded life. When work ends - and it will eventually end - make sure you have a robust life centered around all aspects - not just work.

The Basics

When you are in a job search, it is imperative you get back to the basics.

· Job Search - get up each morning and "go to the office" (figuratively). Get dressed and get to work on finding a job.

· Network - 80% of job seekers find their job through networking. Go to two different networking events each week.

· Take Breaks - After you've reached about 4-6 hours, you should call it a day on your job search. Staring at a computer, working your network, and applying for jobs will burn you out. Do something physical - take a walk, ride your bike, shoot baskets for 45 minutes will help you clear your mind.

Career Change

Don't rule out career change. One of the panelists spoke about an IT professional in his 50's that had been laid off. He started exploring careers, and by taking the Campbell Interest Inventory, he scored "off the charts" for Aircraft Mechanic. A few years later, our speaker reported, he received an email from the man. He said he pinched himself each day when he walked into the hanger at his job as an Aircraft Mechanic!

Find your passion - and there are many assessments like The DISC w/Career Match, Strong, and Campbell that can help. Really explore childhood dreams and fantasies. Find the activities that you really lose track of time doing. Once you've identified your passions, figure out how you can make money doing it. Think outside the box, and look at all options.

Dealing with family and friends

Much like dealing with a chronic illness, family and friends may become uncomfortable, agitated, or withdraw. How can you deal with this? First, realize this is normal behavior. They are just as concerned (and possibly frightened) as you are. If they are nagging, try to encourage them to back off a bit. If you are distraught and inconsolable, try to steer clear of friends.

One of the panelists mentioned she had a client who was going through an extended job loss. He was very anxious about his spouse's support. The Therapist brought in the client's spouse to discuss with her the situation, and the spouse said "I would move under a bridge with you if it came to that." With the "pressure off", the man was able to find a job relatively soon after getting that relief.

You will work again

Statistically speaking, you WILL find another job. It will be quicker and easier if you have a positive outlook, get back to the basics, know your career options - even if it a career change, and get family and friend's support. Although there will be rejection along the way, it only takes one "yes" to eradicate a page of "no's".

Recommended Resources:

Books:

· Feeling Good by David D. Burns, MD
· Learned Optimism by Martin Seligman, PhD
· Authentic Happiness by Martin Seligman, PhD
· The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook by Edmond Bourne, PhD
· eBook: How to FINALLY Find What You Love to Do AND Get Paid For Doing It: The DEFINITIVE Guide to Finding and Successfully Pursuing Your Passion by Brian Kim

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Jay Markunas is a Career Coach and Fortune 500 HR Professional. Along with his partner, Angela Loeb, he helps people gain clarity and develop successful strategies for career transition. Through their company, Great Occupations, they help job seekers and career shifters by offering The Job Search Boot Camp webcast, Find a Career You Love tele-coaching event, career & job coaching services, and career-related products.
Angela & Jay write a Daily Job Tips Blog, and each 1st & 3rd Saturday morning, Jay & Angela host The Job Search Boot Camp Show - which also available on iTunes.
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There are many jobs that are related to the hospitality industry as it is one of the main industries that employ people. This is due to the fact that there are many things you can do working in a hotel and many different professions are needed. If you are already working in a hotel or are trying to be involved in this business, you should also know that you are going to face many challenges. Things are not very glamorous but are still very rewarding.

First of all, let's see a brief overview of jobs that are related to the hotel industry. A hotel needs a receptionist in fact more than one. If you can speak and understand two or more languages and know are can easily learn a computer system, you can definitely apply for this job. You should start from a small hotel and gradually reach your goal. If you have experience, you can apply to hotels that are more luxurious if you prefer. The environment there might be better, but this is not a fact so take time to think about it. Jobs around the reception desk or lobby include grooms, bell boys and concierge, but not all hotels have them. A hotel also needs housekeeping and cooks to operate.

Housekeeping jobs include people to clean rooms, people to be in charge of the floors and monitor activities. Kitchen staff includes chefs and cooks and of course service. So if you are a cook and prefer a hotel environment you can opt for a hotel job. There are also many jobs for operations. This means that the hotel also needs people with degrees and experience for the sales departments, management and marketing departments.

If you are a professional in the above categories and are interested in hospitality you can apply for a job that will allow you to apply your knowledge in this environment. You will be asked to promote sales, maintain and increase the quality services the hotel offers and find ways to cut down costs. Saving money, saving time and increasing sales is what hotels are all about.

The one thing that you will need working in hotels is to be customer oriented. This means that regardless of being a cook or the manager, you should have the customer as your priority. Services that are provided should be according to them and you should always show that you are willing to find a solution in every problem. You should also be honest if you can't do anything about something that they ask you and suggest alternatives.

Personalities that have these characteristics are those that succeed in the industry. Working in hotels is not easy as the environment is very limited and conflicts with employees occur often. In cases like these, there is sadly not much you can do. Make sure you have the qualifications needed and do your job well so that you can maintain a level of dignity that can help you in your career.

For hotel recruitment including international catering recruitment, visit Catering Services International - the world's specialist hospitality recruiter.

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The term PSW is actually an acronym for Personal Support Worker. In some ways using the term PSW can be seen as more correct, as a the government of Ontario classifies Residential Care Workers, Long Term Care Workers, Personal Aid Workers and Residential attendants as PSW's in their literature and announcements.

Now that we have some of the technicalities sorted out let's take a look at how much a personal support worker can expect to be paid in the province of Ontario.

The Canadian Union of Public Employees, which is known as CUPE released a research report that found unionized workers earning $14.65 on average when working in the public sector. They also found that non-unionized workers earned approximately $13.42. In private settings wage dropped to $11.74 for unionized public sector and $11.52 for non-unizoned employment.

The CUPE report was filed a few years back. Most likely PSW wages throughout Ontario have increased due to a 2007 pay increase ruling from the government of Ontario, which, in increments, increased the wages of a large portion of provinces PSW's that worked in public facilities.

So at this point we've established that the pay is good. What's the job market looking like? The good news is that this question has basically answered for us. Demand for PSW workers is increasing.

The government of Ontario recently committed an additional $107 million to their 2008 budget in order to specifically hire an additional 2500 personal support workers throughout the province by the year 2011.

With close to $15 an hour average wage and the provincial budget earmarking over $100 million in increased hiring PSW employment in Ontario looks to be on the rise.

Are you interested in becoming a personal support worker? If so you can check out PSW School Program & Courses information. Or if you are already practicing its always good to keep your options open by using the PSW Jobs & Employment page.

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If you are interested in entering the oil industry then you need to be sure you have got what it takes to apply for these positions. There are a few aspects that need to be taken into consideration when you are thinking about joining this industry. If you have had little or no previous experience then you will need to work at an entry level job and work up.

The easiest way to improve your chances are to work for an onshore oil rig company first or complete a Fire-fighter or basic offshore survival certificate. This training is not required but may increase your chances of getting the job you want. When you work at an onshore company you will be trained to use the equipment safely and learn how to oil rigs work. Onboard there will be classroom-based training as well as practical training. Over time you will be given the chance to move forward and apply for work that is more demanding and better paid. Starting off at an entry-level job you can expect a salary of US 50,000 a year and upwards. This amount may vary depending on your contract with the Oil Company. Do not be put off if you may think you are too old. There are many people who work on an oilrig will into there 60's! Provided you are in good health, physically able and pass the required medical certificate you are an ideal candidate for the oil rig industry.

To be successful in obtaining work, be sure you are physically strong and able, as this work can be very demanding. If you know someone who works within the industry, ask them to put a word in for you as the company is more likely to hire someone who has a good reference from someone who already works there. If you need to begin at the bottom and work your way up, then you will probably work as a roustabout or roughneck. When you apply for these jobs, be sure to mention any previous experience you may have had to anything relating to oil industry work. This could include trade experiences. If the company considers you a good worker and competent, they may then offer you another job that is more difficult and demanding. Salaries start of at US 50,000 a year or US $300 a day and work up to US 100,000 a year. If you want to work overseas then you can earn up US 220,000. Living offshore may be hard the first time but over time as you adjust you will be more comfortable.

There are a few general guidelines to living offshore: You may be required to work a nightshift, as an oilrig is a 24-hour operation. Be sure to not upset the chef, medic or radio operator, as you may need medical attention, food and helicopters. When you have your meal, take off your work outfit and eat in the galley. When you submit your CV to oil companies, make sure your CV stands out from the rest. You can do this by using coloured paper and strong font. Make sure there are no spelling mistakes, as this may not seem to important at least they know you have taken time to prepare a good CV. Ensure the writing is easy to read and if you can type it out on a computer and print it out. Include a cover letter stating exactly what you hope to obtain.

There are safety issues to consider when working in the oil industry. When you arrive on an oil rig you will be issued with a hard hat and work goggles. These are usually required to be worn when working around dangerous areas. There are a few general guidelines to living offshore: You may be required to work a nightshift, as an oilrig is a 24-hour operation. Be sure to not upset the chef, medic or radio operator, as you may need medical attention, food and helicopters. When you have your meal, take off your work outfit and eat in the galley.

Claire Calkin has been working in the oil rig employment industry for over 4 years and during this time has provided countless people with advice and assistance on how to best get jobs in the oil industry. Follow this link for further information on offshore oil rig jobs.

Job

Since most people spend a majority of their life on the job, choosing a career that you actually enjoy is very important for a happy and fulfilling lifestyle. Choosing a career that does not suit your personality can lead to confusion, unhappiness and boredom. People seek to find a career that best suits their natural traits and talents. When your work lets you realize your true potential and utilize your talents to the fullest, only then can you be satisfied with your career.

Personality Tests

Large corporate companies and business houses around the world hire employees by conducting personality tests as it measures skills, abilities, values and interests. These tests determine one's aptitude for a certain type of career and even mention the right job that suits an individual's personality. They determine the personality type; whether you are outgoing or reserved, realistic or imaginative, logical or sensitive, organized or spontaneous.

Personality Tests Help:

How A Personality Test Works

An informal series of questions is prepared and a team of experts analyzes the test results. They examine different personality aspects to form a personality profile. This profile is then discussed within a group, comprising of a panel of psychology graduates and career advisors. The best career choice is made according to the personality type and a detailed report is declared in front of the candidate.

There are a variety of tests that measure your intelligence and skills and assess your ability to succeed in a career. Some are more complex as compared to others. Some might be free of cost or may charge a nominal fee. The tests range from a five-minute color test to an hour-long complete personality test.

1) Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI): This is the most important tool that helps to assess a personality type and explore career options. A certain amount of fee is charged for conducting the test. It is fast, secure and confidential.

2) Career Key: This is a free online assessment tool that helps people make the best career choice.

3) Keirsey Temperament Sorter: This tool helps discover what type of temperament you possess and tells if you are an Artisan, Guardian, Rational or Idealist. They also charge a small fee for conducting the test.

4) Princeton Review Career Quiz: A series of questions are answered and accordingly, the best career choice is determined. They estimate your personal interests and usual styles. Registration is necessary for getting the results.

5) Strong Interest Inventory: This tool helps to match your interest with a professional career.

The results of these tests give a fair indication of an individual's personality and should not be relied on as absolute. The examiners analyze the personality profile based on the answers. Taking a few personality tests can acquaint you with new career options that might not have been considered before.

These instruments help evaluate your personality type and explore new career options. A proper match between your job and your personality plays a major role in ensuring job satisfaction. Personality tests will direct you to a profession that will best compliment your personality.

Tony Jacowski is a quality analyst for The MBA Journal. Aveta Solution's Six Sigma Online ( http://www.sixsigmaonline.org ) offers online six sigma training and certification classes for lean six sigma, black belts, green belts, and yellow belts.

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Are you an active participant in the labor market looking for a job or career? Do you dread or endure negative experiences with job interviews? It is not fun to go through the process of looking for a job and being hit with objections from a potential employer in a job interview; yet, you just might become hired for a position you interview thoroughly for. You will become acquainted with how to possibly overcome particular job interview objections. We will cover role-playing scenarios.

Human Resources Manager: "The position you are interviewing for requires experience. According to your resume and job application, you do not possess the experience we require."

Employment Applicant: "We all have to get our feet wet before we are thrust into the fire. Plus, the only way somebody can gain experience for a position is if he or she is granted the opportunity to learn and acquire experience. I am a quick learner and I am a person who is very easy to train."

Human Resources Manager: "We like to bring on board employees who possess a stable employment history. Your resume and job application indicate you have never held a job for more than six months at a time."

Employment Applicant: "I left my first job after a short period of time because it was an internship for my field of study I completed during my last year of college. My second job did not last long because my employer had to drastically reduce the work force to stay in business as a result of times being tough. I left my third job after six months of starting because it was time to move on."

Human Resources Manager: "I think you are overqualified because you have had so many good jobs and you have vast management experience. You probably would not embrace being a waiter."

Employment Applicant: "I understand you do not want to overpay me before I prove myself. I am willing to negotiate my salary; furthermore, I am not too proud to accept an entry-level position as a waiter."

Human Resources Manager: "You appear to be an employee we would be thrilled to hire. However, we do not currently have room to hire a new employee. We will keep you in mind."

Employment Applicant: "I understand. I look forward to working for you as soon as you have an opening. Thank you for your time and consideration."

Human Resources Manager: "You appear to be too quiet and laid back."

Employment Applicant: "I do not like to interrupt others and I try to not appear to be too aggressive or talkative. I really have a lot of energy and ambition to be a valuable asset for your company."

Do not let yourself have something to regret. If you are notified about not being selected for hiring after an interview, ask why you were not selected.

Do what you have learned to overcome job interview objections!

Todd Hicks owns Skill Development Institute, an enterprise that provides a keyboard typing lesson and academic study guide. To become a great typist or student, visit Skill Development Institute. http://sdinst.blogspot.com

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There are no shortcuts to successful careers or successful lives. There may be some luck involved when people win lotteries and bets, but this does not mean that everyone is going to be lucky and hit that million-dollar jackpot. Those people have to make some quick decisions in their lives, and make instant career changes.

For those who are not close to hitting that million-dollar jackpot, here are some tips that will help you change your career for the better.

1. Snap back to reality - As easy as it may seem, changing careers can be a challenging and daunting experience and far from easy. It all boils down to how you perceive it. If you want to change your career, then do it quickly. Put in all your effort and all the strength that you have. Remember that you are wasting more effort and energy being stuck in a job that you do not like, and one that doesn't appeal to you.

2. Do not expect miracles - There are going to be no miracles where your career change is concerned. Do not think that a career change is going to come to you miraculously. The only person who can help you escape from your current dead-end career is you! Be proactive. Don't just sit there complacently and expect some dream career to land in your lap. It is not going to happen unless you take some steps to make it happen. You need to really go out there and do some work.

3. Analyze your values, passions and skills - When you have decided to start working on your career change, the first thing that you have to do is analyze the things that matter to you the most. These things will focus on your values, your passions and your skills. Values are principles that you adhere to in life, and these are important in your career. Passion for a particular career or being passionate about something is what will make you want to do a particular thing to the best of your ability. Your skill is the ability that of doing something well. Your passions and your skills need to be on the same wavelength.

4. Focus on the positives - When you are looking for an instant career change, you need to have a positive outlook. It does not help when you are constantly demoralized or unmotivated to change your career. Think about how much better you would feel if you were doing something you were passionate about.

So when you are trying to change your career as fast as possible, it helps to plan and plan well.

Tony Jacowski is a quality analyst for The MBA Journal. Aveta Solutions - Six Sigma Online ( http://www.sixsigmaonline.org ) offers online six sigma training and certification classes for lean six sigma, black belts, green belts, and yellow belts.

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